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Morris County Honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Morris County, NJ

by ArtExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessNorth JerseyTechnology & Tech

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Published on January 20, 2025

College Promise Program Highlighted at Annual Remembrance

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Hundreds gathered this morning at the Hyatt Regency in Morristown despite more than five inches of snow to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on what would have been his 96th birthday, celebrated January 15.

The 55th Commemoration of the Life and Legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., hosted by the Martin Luther King Observance Committee in collaboration with the Morris Area Clergy Council and the African American Clergy Association, has been a cornerstone of the Morris County community for 39 years. This year’s theme was “Strength of the Dream: Moving Forward with Hope.”

Among the attendees was Dr. Felicia Brown Jamison, founder and chair emeritus of the MLK Observance Committee, who braved inclement weather and health challenges to participate in the celebration.

Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presented the committee with a framed resolution alongside Commissioner John Krickus, commemorating the 55th anniversary of Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday. Selen highlighted the County College of Morris (CCM) College Promise programs, which provide tuition assistance for students from underserved communities.

View Photos from the 55th MLK Commemoration in Morris County

“Programs like CCM’s College Promise are transforming lives by offering free tuition credits and resources to motivated students in underserved communities like Morristown and Dover,” said Director Selen. “These initiatives give young people a head start on college and access to brighter futures.”

The College Promise programs launched in 2020 with the Dover school district and expanded to Morristown in 2023.

In June 2024, Commissioner Krickus introduced the Morris Ambassador Program, a volunteer committee appointed by the county commissioners that works with CCM and the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) to promote College Promise and other education opportunities. Among them are MCVSD’s Share Time Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs that offer high school juniors and seniors specialized training and industry-recognized credentials to prepare for employment or post-secondary education.

“Morris Ambassadors will help spread the word about this program and the amazing opportunities at CCM and MCVSD. We can turn Dr. King’s legacy into action by ensuring our young people have the tools they need to succeed in life,” Commissioner Krickus said.

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The celebration also featured reflections from former MLK Observance Committee scholarship recipients, who shared how their educational paths were influenced by Dr. King’s inspiration. Local high school students delivered speeches inspired by his writings.

Rev. Dr. David A. Hollowell, Chair of the MLK Observance Committee, delivered the welcome remarks, followed by an invocation by John Thompson of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The program included performances by vocalist Kamuela Nikki Tillman and pianist Devone Allison, a keynote address Rev. Dr. Sidney Williams Jr., pastor of Bethel Church and a closing prayer by Rev. Msgr. John E. Hart, pastor of Assumption Church.

Key sponsors of this year’s event included Atlantic Health System, Valley Bank and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Notable attendees included County Administrator Deena Leary, Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, CCM President Anthony Iacono and State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who presented a joint New Jersey Senate and Assembly citation on behalf of the 25th Legislative District.

For more information on MCVSD’s CTE programs, visit this link or download the CTE information flyer here.

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Photo 1: The county commissioners present a framed resolution to the MLK Observance Committee. Standing from left to right is Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Henry Lee, Secretary of the MLK Observance Committee and Commissioner John Krickus.

Photo 2: (back row, l-r) Meghan Hunscher, President of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce; Julian Gomez, Executive Director of Educational Opportunity and Cultural Engagement at CCM; Dr. Maria Isaza, Dean of the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences at CCM; and Morris County Commissioner John Krickus. (front row, l-r) Dr. Dorothy Hollowell; Dr. David A. Hollowell, Chair of the MLK Observance Committee; Dr. Anthony Iacono, CCM President; and Henry Lee, Secretary of the MLK Observance Committee.

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Iconic Bendix Diner Shuts Down Indefinitely; More Food News

by BusinessDinersExplore New JerseyFilm & TVFood & BeverageHealth & WellnessNorth JerseyShopping

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Closings

Bendix Diner, Hasbrouck Heights

The Bendix Diner on Route 17 has shut down indefinitely after nearly 80 years in business due to numerous fire and health code violations. John Diakakis, who has long operated the iconic eatery despite being blind, and owns a third of the business with his siblings, told NJ Advance Media that the business had been shut down.

When New Jersey Monthly visited in early January, a large “UNSATISFACTORY” sign had been affixed to the cash register by the Health Department. Tape has since been placed around the doors, and the food license revoked. Diakakis told NorthJersey.com this week that he was still fighting to save the the diner.

Openings

Harpoon Willy’s, Robbinsville

Known for its flagship location in Manasquan, Harpoon Willy’s opened a new location this week in Robbinsville. It features indoor and outdoor seating that accommodates more than 300 guests; the 70-seat bar area has multiple TVs. The outdoor space, which can accommodate nearly 100 guests, will open during the warmer months. The original Harpoon Willy’s has served as a cornerstone of the community since its construction in 1792.

Café Baires, Hackensack

This new Argentine bakery and coffeehouse on Main Street serves medialunas, empanadas and freshly brewed coffee. It’s currently open seven days a week.

Sweet T’s Southern Eatery, Teaneck

Jersey’s only pork-free soul-food restaurant is expanding its Montclair restaurant to Teaneck. Dre Perrin (the owner of BeSpoke Men’s Hair Spa, Teaneck’s oldest Black-owned business) and Tonza Houston—both Teaneck High School alumni—are bringing Southern cuisine with a health-conscious twist to their Bergen County hometown. Like their original location, the food will be served in a chic, welcoming atmosphere.

Farmhouse Sweets, Allamuchy

Pastry chef Rebecca Shuster is opening her first brick-and-mortar bakery in The Mall at Panther Valley in Allamuchy. She gained local notoriety and a devoted following for her handcrafted baked goods and pie-of-the-month club. At her new shop, Shuster will revive some fan favorites, including her beautiful pies, and add items like seasonal tarts, in such flavors as maple crème brûlée, lemon cream, pear almond and salted chocolate caramel.

Just Salad, Livingston

The fast-casual restaurant chain’s first drive-thru location has come to Essex County, making its fresh and affordable meals even more convenient. Special grand-opening promotions are currently available for a limited time.

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Mary Ann Clayton

by Explore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & Wellness

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Mary Ann Clayton, age 88, passed away on January 17, 2025 at Ocean Medical Center in Brick, NJ.

Born and raised in Newark, NJ, Mary Ann resided in Neptune for many years before settling in Wall for the last 45 years. Mary Ann was a teacher for over 50 years starting in Bloomfield and moving onto Neptune Township and the Monmouth County Board of Education
Mary Ann lived her entire life dedicated to her faith and her family.
She was predeceased by her parents, Michael and Helen Murray, her husband, Lionel Clayton, her son Michael Clayton, and her brother John B. Murray.
Surviving are her daughter, Kathleen Clayton of Wall and her son, Timothy Clayton and his wife, Lisa of Wall, brother, Michael W. Murray of Colts Neck, and four cherished grandchildren, Joseph, Kimberly, Caitlin and Timothy.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 10:00 am in St. Margaret’s Church, Corner of 3rd and Ludlow Aves., Spring Lake. Interment will follow at St. Anne’s Cemetery in Wall.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake, NJ.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the O’Brien Funeral Home, Wall
To send condolences to the family please visit http://www.obrienfuneralhome.com.

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Sellinger to return to Greenberg Traurig

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessLaw & OrderTechnology & TechTrenton Thunder

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Philip Sellinger, the former U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, will rejoin Greenberg Traurig LLP as co-chair of the firm’s global litigation practice, the firm announced Friday afternoon.

The move is effective Feb. 1.

Sellinger, who began serving as U.S. Attorney in 2021, formally resigned from the position on Jan. 8 – a standard and expected move before a new presidential administration.

Sellinger was the founding chair of Greenberg Traurig’s New Jersey office in 2002 and served as co-chair of the firm’s global litigation practice before taking the position.

Richard Rosenbaum, the firm’s executive chairman, was thrilled to make the announcement regarding his return.

“It is an honor and pleasure to welcome Philip home to Greenberg Traurig, where his leadership in our global litigation practice and New Jersey office over the years prior to his becoming U.S. Attorney was always profoundly appreciated,” he said.

“He is a distinguished attorney and a pillar in both the U.S. litigation bar and the New Jersey community, having always maintained the highest standards of quality and integrity. His experience, energy, collaborative nature, and servant style of leadership will once again be of significant value to his colleagues and the firm’s clients, particularly in our global litigation practice, and to the further strategic growth of our New Jersey office.”

Greenberg Traurig CEO Brian Duffy was equally enthused.

“Philip’s return to help lead our global litigation practice is a strong addition to our robust team of 800 litigators, of whom more than 60 are former federal and state prosecutors, including eight former U.S. Attorneys,” he said. “This team continues to grow from strength to strength, providing clients with representation at the highest level including real trial experience wherever and whenever needed worldwide.”

As U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Sellinger was the presidentially appointed and Senate-confirmed chief federal law enforcement officer in the state. He oversaw a wide range of important federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation for the state and managed 165 prosecutors and 120 staff members.

Under Sellinger’s direction, the New Jersey U.S. Attorney’s Office achieved international prominence in fighting cybercrime; reached landmark corporate criminal and civil resolutions; and aggressively prosecuted securities fraud, insider trading and market manipulation, public corruption, money laundering, fraud against government and private health care plans, government contract and customs fraud, unlawful kickback schemes, violent crime, and civil rights violations. He created the first standalone Civil Rights Division at any U.S. Attorneys’ Office and created a Bank Integrity, Money Laundering, and Recovery Unit.

Sellinger also served as chair of the Department of Justice’s E-Litigation Advisory Council, vice chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee’s Civil Rights Subcommittee, and a member of both the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee’s White Collar Crime Committee and Corporate Criminal Enforcement Working Group, which authored a voluntary self-disclosure policy that set a nationwide standard detailing the circumstances under which a company will receive credit for disclosing misconduct.

Sellinger said he is thrilled to return to the firm.

“Serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey has been the privilege of a lifetime,” he said. “I am now thrilled to return home to Greenberg Traurig, an exceptionally dynamic law firm that truly embodies my commitment to legal excellence and the highest level of client service. Certainly, the firm’s presence in most major financial centers across the globe and vast array of practice expertise provides a platform that will greatly benefit the clients I expect to serve.”

At Greenberg Traurig, Sellinger will focus on high stakes complex trials and litigation in a wide array of areas, including government and internal investigations, white collar, class action defense, financial services, and technology litigation.

Lori Cohen and Masoud Zabeti, co-chairs of the practice group, welcomed him back.

“We are thrilled to once again be able to benefit from Philip’s considerable knowledge and skill as both an extraordinary litigator and leader,” they said in a joint comment. “We look forward to working closely with him to continue to grow our award-winning global litigation practice around the world.”



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Breaking Down the State Revolving Fund – Recommendations and Changes

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessPoliticsTechnology & Tech

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December 2nd, 2024 by

This blog is a follow-up to New Jersey Future’s November 2023 report Improving a Program That Works: Recommendations to the New Jersey Water Bank for Advancing Equity. Please see page 1 of the report for a list of acronyms.

 

Over the next 20 years, the United States must spend $625 billion to fix, maintain, and improve water infrastructure. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, New Jersey alone will need to spend at least $12,252,800,000 on drinking water infrastructure and $19,352,000,000 on clean water infrastructure over the next 20 years to make all necessary improvements and repairs. The predominant sources of water infrastructure funding and financing for all 50 states are the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF – wastewater treatment and stormwater management) and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF – safe and reliable water supply). These State Revolving Funds (SRFs) are financial assistance programs that provide low-interest loans to support critical water infrastructure projects essential for protecting public health and the environment.

The New Jersey Water Bank (NJWB), a partnership of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank), manages New Jersey’s State Revolving Funds. NJWB’s financial support to New Jersey wastewater and drinking water systems has generated significant savings through principal forgiveness (PF – grant-like funding) and low-interest loans. Disadvantaged communities (DACs) served by small and medium-sized systems face increased challenges in accessing SRF funding, particularly struggling to reach the initial application stage due to the high costs associated with planning and design. Larger water utilities tend to receive disproportionate awards, while smaller, fiscally distressed DACs lag behind, highlighting a significant equity concern. In Improving a Program that Works: Recommendations to the New Jersey Water Bank for Advancing Equity, released in November 2023, New Jersey Future (NJF) and the Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) primarily recommended policies to improve access to the SRFs for water systems serving DACs through a more robust method for identifying disadvantaged communities, maximizing pre-construction support, expanding principal forgiveness funds, and providing 0% interest loans.

Annually, the NJWB is required to develop Intended Use Plans (IUPs) for the DWSRF and CWSRF, laying out the policies, funding packages, and project priority ranking methodology for the corresponding state fiscal year. Over the last few years, NJF has reviewed New Jersey’s IUP policies and submitted comments concerning the amount of state and federal funding used to address the needs of water systems serving disadvantaged communities. NJDEP, which sets policy for the NJWB, has been open to feedback and working with stakeholders to improve the IUP policies.

Of the ten recommendations made in Improving a Program that Works, NJDEP has implemented the following:

  • NJWB has made progress in expanding set-aside activities for technical assistance and support for DACs, particularly for pre-construction needs. Project sponsors who meet the affordability criteria are eligible for the New Jersey Technical Assistance Program (NJTAP), a free technical assistance program for drinking water projects. Additional planning and design grants and principal forgiveness are also available.
  • Increased flat caps in all drinking water SRF categories that will result in more subsidies for small water systems, lead service line (LSL) projects, and DAC systems.
  • NJWB implemented a tiered funding structure to direct a greater share of financial assistance to DACs with the greatest financial need.
  • The most recent IUP clarified the I-Bank’s creditworthiness policy.

NJF is excited to see all the improvements that have been made and hopes to see the following changes made in the future:

  • As a key first step in refining its criteria for dispersing principal forgiveness, NJDEP implemented a two-tiered system based primarily on median household income (MHI).To maximize equity, NJDEP should adopt the model established by several other states (e.g., Wisconsin) that incorporates more tiers and indicators (e.g., family poverty, population trend). The combined effect directs a larger share of aid to the state’s neediest communities.  
  • MHI is still the primary criterion for calculating an affordability score for water systems serving DACs in the Intended Use Plans. NJF and EPIC recommend utilizing the Department of Community Affairs’ Municipal Revitalization Index score, a multidimensional tool comprising ten factors in five broad categories. Alternatively, NJDEP could consider using a water affordability index, such as the one developed by Dan Van Abs (Professor of Practice for Water, Society, and the Environment at Rutgers University, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences) for Jersey Water Works, for distributing funds to those in greatest need.
  • NJDEP should significantly expand the use of 0% interest loans to advance critical, high-priority projects in the most distressed DACs. NJDEP only increased these loans for investor-owned systems in the most recent IUP.
  • Significantly increase the ranking points awarded in the Project Priority List for “gainsharing” initiatives that benefit both the water utility and the state, such as water affordability programs (which support appropriate rate setting while protecting low-income customers), asset management plans, and regionalization of water assets.
  • NJDEP should repurpose a modest portion of loan repayments to increase principal forgiveness to DACs. NJDEP could use this approach to develop a funding source for galvanized water service lines within DACs, which may not be eligible for federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding. Galvanized service lines are required to be removed in NJ by 2031 since they can be a source of lead in drinking water.
  • Legislation to improve creditworthiness for severely distressed DACs.

The report also identified the need to address congressionally directed spending, or earmarks. Congress has diverted SRF funding to earmarked projects, and the concern is that earmarked projects circumvent the normal priority-setting process where projects determined to be of the highest priority score the most points. In addition, communities with median household incomes (MHI) above the state average, including some of New Jersey’s wealthiest areas, have received nearly half of the earmarked funds. Meanwhile, less than a third of these funds have gone to disadvantaged communities (DACs). Discussions with New Jersey’s congressional delegation are ongoing, but no definitive changes have been made to prevent federal water infrastructure funding from being derailed by earmarks. Governor Murphy, according to NJDEP, sent a letter to the New Jersey Congressional Delegation expressing concern over this issue.

As last year’s report title states, NJDEP’s CWSRF and DWSRF programs are generally effective and have provided significant funding to improve water systems since their inception; however, as New Jersey faces the daunting challenge of aging water infrastructure and its extreme costs, ensuring equitable access to funding is critical. DACs served by small- to medium-sized water systems face the most barriers to accessing the financial resources needed to repair and upgrade water systems. Though progress has been made, significant disparities remain. NJWB should continue to refine its program to target funding to New Jersey’s most distressed communities, most of which lack the resources to provide safe, reliable water services for the future. Without a greater commitment to both equity and funding, the gap between resource-constrained DACs and other water utilities will continue to grow, undermining efforts to build resilient, sustainable infrastructure across New Jersey.

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 1/16/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyDinersExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessLaw & OrderNorth JerseyPoliticsSouth JerseyTechnology & Tech

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Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “We have not had a second-term governor with popular approval for quite some time. He’s not looking for election. He’s not looking for his wife’s election. He’s not looking for his next job. He’s in this position in which voters are probably happy with, which is: ‘What can I get done?” – Rider University’s Micah Rasmussen on Governor Murphy’s State of the State

 

TOP STORY: Bhalla Enters Assembly Race

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Download and read Insider NJ’s 2024 Insider 100: Rising Generations publication.

 

Governor Murphy is looking to partner with incoming President Trump in his final year, according to Politico NJ.

 

President-elect Trump’s Transportation Secretary nominee has a record of voting against funding for the Gateway Tunnel project, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

The NJDOH and Rowan University partnered to enhance mental health services at Ancora Psychiatric Hospital.

 

Some school districts are already banning cellphones in classrooms, according to NJ.com.

 

A North Jersey rabbi will deliver a blessing at President-elect Trump’s inauguration, according to NorthJersey.com.

 

A new public health institute in the state is taking shape, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

Burlington County appointed a law firm to review the 2024 election.

 

The proposed Essex County $874M budget includes a 1.99% tax hike, according to NJ Hills.

 

An Ocean County sheriff’s officer spoke out about a sex assault suit that brought a $177M award, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

Rep. Van Drew promised to fight ‘tooth and nail’ against offshore wind, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

Rutgers University announced the inductees into its Hall of Distinguished Alumni.

 

ICYMI: Murphy delivered SOS address, mentioned ‘elephant not in the room‘, laid out priorities including removing cellphones from classrooms; NJDOL reported NJ leads Northeast population growth; state announced a historic low in gun violence

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Download and read Insider NJ’s 2024 Retrospective/2025 Advance publication.

 

Rep. Gottheimer was endorsed for Governor by mayors in Rep. Sherrill’s district, according to NJ Globe.

 

Former Senate President Sweeney launched his first digital ad for his gubernatorial candidacy, according to NJ Globe.

 

In LD4, Melinda Kane is joining the Assembly, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

 

In LD32, Hoboken Mayor Bhalla launched his Assembly candidacy, saying ‘Trenton needs more mayors who get things done’. Assembly candidate Katie Brennan raised $85k for her campaign.

 

In LD35, a new Senator and Assemblymember will be chosen at a convention today, according to NJ Globe.

 

MAD Global expanded their Ohio operation.

 

ICYMI: Sumter, Wimberly collision course; Insider NJ sits down w/ Spiller; Sweeney announced campaign manager; Fulop released primary education video; look ahead at guv race; NJGOP announced Gonzalez as ED; Bramnick made reorg rounds

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Senate President Scutari wants to look at consolidating watchdog agencies, according to NJ Globe.

 

Assemblywoman Munoz released a proposal for paid parental leave.

 

‘Fake farmers’ in the state could soon lose a tax break, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

ICYMI: Legislature devised interim solution to legal ads

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Jersey City, mayoral candidate Councilman Solomon raised over $800k.

 

In Bound Brook, the town will lose library services until further notice, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Camden, a proposed building would become the tallest tower in the city, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

 

In Newark, a unreleased report found students at a school endured anti-black racism, according to NJ Monitor.

 

In Ocean City, police are preparing for four years of disruption, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Old Bridge, a development may bring 2,400 residents into town, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In South Amboy, a new apartment building may come to town, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Toms River, the council clamped down on how long people can speak at meetings, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

ICYMI: In Parsippany, Bergen endorsed Barberio, in primary w/ Mussella; in Hoboken, Jabbour announced for mayor as Bhalla won’t seek re-election; in Jersey City, Akaezuwa announced council candidacy

 

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

Here comes Trump 2.0 and with it, no matter what, some weirdness

Jeff Edelstein, The Trentonian

 

  • Remember the scene in “Frozen,” when it’s Coronation Day? (What? I have two daughters. I’ve seen “Frozen” 47 times.) Anyway, it’s a thrilling song. Anna is thrilled because her sister Elsa is about to be crowned Queen (or something, I don’t know, I’m usually looking at my phone and not the movie).

 

With 76ers’ arena out, a modest proposal for Camden | Editorial

South Jersey Times Editorial Board

 

  • Now that the dust has settled, and the Philadelphia 76ers will not be taking up New Jersey’s generous offer to build their new arena in Camden, here’s a more modest proposal than New Jersey’s standard deal, “How much tax-free public money do you want? We’ll pay it.” Let’s build an arena in Camden, anyway.

 

Recapping (and analyzing) Murphy’s State of the State address

Tom Bergeron, roi-nj.com

 

  • Gov. Phil Murphy has done enough State of the State addresses to know the deal: highlight your successes – and give a sneak peek of what may be coming in the more extensive budget address. Tuesday in Trenton, he didn’t disappoint.

 

N.J. teachers are ready, able, and properly certified | Opinion

Kwamé Floyd

 

  • New Jersey just took a giant step to strengthen our teacher workforce and knock down barriers to recruiting and retaining necessary talent. A new law that waives the Basic Skills Praxis exam for some aspiring teachers has been welcomed with disparaging headlines and social media posts intended to create controversy. A closer look, however, reveals a thoughtful effort to address teacher shortages and the redundancies of outdated certification practices while maintaining high standards for educator readiness.

 

Legislative Leaders, Advocacy Groups Respond to State of the State Address

Alex Connell, TAPinto Morristown

 

  • With Governor Phil Murphy’s annual State of the State Address over, legislative leaders gathered and shared statements outlining their views on the speech, and the agenda that was laid out for the final year of the current administration. Republican Senator Leader Anthony Bucco addressed the media shortly after, accusing Murphy of painting “a rosy picture about the state and how it’s stronger and fairer,” while questioning who it was stronger and fairer for.

 

Trump-allied think tank taps Donohue, Rooney to lead N.J. chapter

David Wildstein

 

  • America First Policy Institute, a national think tank formed to promote Donald Trump’s policy agenda, has formed a New Jersey state chapter with Cape May County GOP Chairman Michael Donohue as chairman and Save Jersey editor Matt Rooney as executive director.

 

The Inside Edge with David Wildstein: 35th District

David Wildstein

 

  • A look inside politics in New Jersey.

 

State Workers in New Jersey May Get 12 Weeks Fully Paid Family Leave

Eric Scott, NJ1015

 

  • Gov. Phil Murphy has counted on the support of public employee unions to advance his progressive agenda for the last seven years. During his State of the State address on Tuesday, Murphy offered a parting gift to state workers in form of 12-weeks of fully paid family leave.

 

Retired Admiral elected chair of The Seeing Eye in Morris Township

The Seeing Eye

 

  • The Seeing Eye Board of Trustees elected Michael H. Mittelman, OD, MPH, MBA, Rear Admiral, USN (Ret.), of Horsham, Pa., to serve as Chair during its December 2024 meeting. Mittelman, who joined the Board in 2017, succeeds Cynthia Bryant, who had served on the Board since 2011. “I am deeply honored to serve as the Chair of The Seeing Eye Board of Trustees, an organization whose mission empowers individuals to lead independent, fulfilling lives,” Mittelman said.

 

How every town in NJ voted in the 2024 presidential election

Rick Rickman, NJ1015

 

  • Surprising new data from the state Division of Elections reveals exactly how Vice President Kamala Harris won New Jersey’s 14 electoral votes in November’s presidential race. Micah Rasmussen, the director of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics at Rider University, said Democrats did better in certain parts of the state with more affluent communities and educated, suburban communities that have recently become cores for the party.

 

Did Phil Murphy just (accidentally) solve the Left’s biggest concern with voter ID laws?

Matt Rooney

 

  • If the Garden State just moved a little bit closer to having its own voter ID law, Save Jerseyans Governor Phil Murphy may be this all-important election integrity cause’s unlikely champion. A little context: fifteen U.S. states have some form of voter ID requirement. New Jersey isn’t one of them. For the longest time, the Left has complained that voter ID laws – which require voters to produce a legal ID card in order to cast a ballot – are discriminatory in large part because identification cards are allegedly hard to obtain.

 

County by county: Where your paycheck goes the furthest in NJ

Dino Flammia, NJ1015

 

  • The money you’re earning can be stretched a little further in some parts of the Garden State. Your purchasing power varies from county to county, according to a study from SmartAsset, a financial technology company. SmartAsset compared the per-capita income of each county with the cost of living for each county, to determine where folks may get more bang for their buck.

 

Trenton’s New Beginnings money pit gets more funding from City Council

LA Parker, The Trentonian

 

  • A New Beginnings Housing Program intended to offer homeownership to eligible candidates via renovation of abandoned properties needs reconsideration or termination. Created in 2022 then launched with righteous fanfare in August 2023, a remodeling of the house for Vanessa Solivan in the 600 block of North Clinton Ave. parallels a popular movie The Money Pit.

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Zwicker and Vitale to Monsignor Reilly: Resign

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessPolitics

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Senator Andrew Zwicker (D-Middlesex/Mercer/Somerset/Hunterdon), Vice Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, and Senator Joe Vitale (D-Middlesex), Chair of the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee, released the following statement regarding allegations involving Seton Hall University President Monsignor Joseph Reilly and the findings of an internal investigation into claims of sexual abuse.

“The allegations surrounding Monsignor Joseph Reilly’s egregious mishandling of sexual abuse allegations are utterly atrocious and absolutely unacceptable. It is outrageous that an individual who reportedly failed to disclose sexual abuse allegations and violated university, State, and federal policies has been appointed as president of Seton Hall University. This decision blatantly disregards the principles of transparency, accountability, and justice for survivors.

“Seton Hall must take immediate and decisive action to restore faith in its leadership. The university must unequivocally demonstrate that it stands with survivors and upholds the principles of justice rather than shielding those who enable abuse through inaction. Anything less is a blatant failure to protect its community and fulfill its mission.

“The time for half-measures and evasion is over. Seton Hall University owes answers, accountability, and justice to its community and the public.

“We demand Monsignor Reilly’s immediate resignation from the presidency of Seton Hall University. Furthermore, the university must release the full findings of the investigation to the public. Transparency is not merely optional in this matter; it is a moral and social imperative. The refusal to disclose this report only strengthens the perception of a cover-up and perpetuates a culture of silence that has permitted abuse within institutions for far too long.

“This crisis is not solely about one individual; it is fundamentally about holding accountable those who allowed this appointment to occur despite clear evidence of misconduct. The Board of Regents has severely compromised its credibility and betrayed the trust of students, faculty, and the broader community by promoting Monsignor Reilly, even after a university-sanctioned investigation recommended his removal. We wholeheartedly support the demands of survivor advocacy groups: those who were aware of these damning findings and still endorsed Monsignor Reilly must also be removed from their positions.”

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Jeffrey S. Paul Named President of Emergency Management Association – Morris County, NJ

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessNorth Jersey

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Published on January 08, 2025

Morris County OEM Director to Lead NJ’s County Coordinators in Disaster Response

New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan (left) swears in Morris County OEM Director Jeff Paul (right) as president of the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association. Morris County Sheriff James Gannon is holding the Bible. Jeffrey S. Paul, Director of the Morris County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), was sworn in today as president of the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association.

Col. Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, conducted the ceremony at the Administration and Records Building in Morristown. Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, who graduated the 20th Basic Police Class with Paul at the former Morris County Police Training Academy in 1983, held the Bible.

“For this new assignment, I am grateful and truly humbled by the enormity of the responsibility and commit to accepting the challenges that lie ahead. There are many — both known and unknown,” said Paul. “The men and women that make up the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinators Association in our 21 counties, along with everyone in this room, come from various backgrounds with unique gifts offered in service for the good of the people, who are counting on us to protect and defend. This is what I was born to do.”

The event also was attended by Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen and Commissioner Deborah Smith, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Director Scott Di Giralomo of the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, senior staff at the Morris County administration and members from the county’s various departments.

View Photos of the Swearing-In Ceremony

“As we speak right now, our OEM is on the phone with California for what may be the most devastating fire in our nation’s history. New Jersey was the first to place a call and collectively we will go and help.  Whether it’s Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Texas, Hawaii or California — fill in the blank. When people say, ‘Who can help us in a time of crisis?’ It’s New Jersey. And it’s because of men like Jeff Paul,” said Col. Callahan, who also serves as the state Director for Emergency Management.

MCPO Deputy Chief of Detectives Jan-Michael Monrad, MCPO Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Col. Patrick Callahan, Jeff Paul, Commissioner Deborah Smith, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen and Sheriff James Gannon. Paul has more than 40 years of experience in law enforcement, emergency management, and EMS operations. He started his career with the Morristown Bureau of Police in 1979 and later served as captain of tactical operations with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office until his retirement in 2012.

“Only a short 42 years ago, Jeff and I were graduating classmates of the police academy. We’ve come a long way since then, but our joint mission has always been the same: to protect and serve our communities. Just look at his list of achievements: this is the right man for the job of president of the emergency management association!” said Sheriff Gannon.

As director of the Morris County OEM, Paul manages emergency response partnerships across the 39 county municipalities. He also serves as the county Emergency Medical Services (EMS) coordinator and oversees the county’s EMS program, including the deployment of pre-hospital emergency response assets.

Paul also commands the county’s Special Operations Group which provides advanced life support/basic life support (ALS/BLS) services for the Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team tactical teams, as well as the bomb squad and HAZMAT units. He led the team responsible for developing the county’s Rescue Task Force Program and is a Class 2 Officer for the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

During President Donald J. Trump’s first term, Paul coordinated ALS/BLS teams that supported the U.S. Secret Service and White House Medical Team on visits to New Jersey and will be continuing those efforts during President Trump’s next term.

“We are very proud that Morris County’s own director of OEM has been selected to lead the state’s emergency management association, and rightly so. Jeff is a consummate professional and his decades of experience in law enforcement and emergency management will bode well for the state,” said Prosecutor Carroll, who also spoke at the ceremony.

Jeff Paul signs an Oath of Office formalizing his position as president of the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association. Paul is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the International School of Tactical Medicine, and a certified tactical medical practitioner with numerous advanced certifications. He has written articles and contributed to the resource guide, “Ciottone’s Disaster Medicine,” in addition to lecturing extensively on emergency management topics. He has also taught programs and courses throughout the state and serves as an instructor for the New Jersey State Police.

“This is a tremendous honor for the Department of Law & Public Safety. What we do in Morris County is critical, and having the opportunity to influence emergency management statewide through collaboration with all 21 counties and the state police OEM will strengthen preparedness and response efforts across New Jersey. I have no doubt that Jeff will excel in representing the county and OEM coordinators throughout the state,” said Law & Public Safety Director Di Giralomo.

The New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association represents emergency management leaders from all 21 counties. Its mission is to protect lives and property within New Jersey and to work with all relevant emergency support functions (ESFs) that support these efforts.

For more information on OEM services in Morris County, visit the Morris County Office of Emergency Management website.

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Photo 1: New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan (left) swears in Morris County OEM Director Jeff Paul (right) as president of the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association. Morris County Sheriff James Gannon is holding the Bible.

Photo 2: MCPO Deputy Chief of Detectives Jan-Michael Monrad, MCPO Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Col. Patrick Callahan, Jeff Paul, Commissioner Deborah Smith, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen and Sheriff James Gannon.

Photo 3: Jeff Paul signs an Oath of Office formalizing his position as president of the New Jersey County Emergency Management Coordinator’s Association.

 

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Crunch Fitness acquires five locations from Jersey Strong Gym

by Explore New JerseyExtreme SportsHealth & WellnessYoga Studios

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Fitness Holdings North America, a leading franchisee of Crunch Fitness, is significantly expanding its New Jersey footprint by acquiring five locations from Jersey Strong Gym in Tinton Falls, Ocean Township, Wall Township, Freehold, and Marlboro.

These new locations will undergo over $20 million in renovations and upgrades to enhance member experiences with modern amenities and cutting-edge equipment.

“Strengthening the Crunch Fitness presence in New Jersey demonstrates our commitment to bring seriously fun fitness to even more gymgoers in the Northeast, Fitness Holdings North America CEO Mark Federico said. “This expansion marks a significant step in our New Jersey growth and beyond. We look forward to welcoming these gyms into our fitness family while transforming these locations into vibrant, welcoming, and engaging spaces.”

Crunch Fitness said that every gym features a comprehensive range of amenities, including cardio machines, Olympic lifting platforms, dumbbells up to 120 pounds, hydromassage beds, and the exclusive HIITZone™ for high-intensity interval training. Members can participate in classes such as dance, yoga, and Pilates, offered at convenient times throughout the week.

With state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of resources, Crunch gyms are designed to help patrons achieve their fitness goals in a supportive and energetic environment.



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Critical Incident Negotiating Team | Cherry Hill Township, NJ

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessSouth JerseyTechnology & Tech

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Functions

This team consists of specially trained sworn officers who respond to specific police emergencies where negotiating skills may be necessary during an incident. These personnel are required to pass stringent qualifications including an oral interview process in order to be selected as a member.

Training

All members must attend an initial 40 hour training course instructed by the FBI which includes:

  • Hostage Negotiation Strategies
  • Personality Profiles
  • Suicide Intervention
  • Active Listening Skills
  • Media Relations
  • Mental Health Awareness

In-service training courses and scenario role playing with other police agencies provide these officers with additional techniques to continually enhance their skill levels.Warren Gares

Special Equipment

To compliment the team, they are outfitted with special equipment including a mobile hostage rescue phone that allows more than one negotiator to monitor a single conversation, a Wireless Telular® Box that can transform any landline into a wireless phone, and a rescue throw phone that can be delivered to a location where no phone equipment exists.

Mission

The primary mission of the unit is to taper off volatile situations and mediate a peaceful resolution with a person who may be in a crisis state by using specific strategies and skills.

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