SEATTLE, WA - JULY 12: Protesters rally on the street on July 12, 2020 in Seattle, Washington. Protesters called for the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the closure of detention centers. (Photo by Karen Ducey/Getty Images)

Exploring New Jersey’s Stance on Immigration Enforcement Amidst Federal Tensions

by Jersey ShoreLaw & OrderThe Humane State

New Jersey’s approach to immigration enforcement has become a focal point of national discussion, particularly in light of recent directives affecting cooperation between state law enforcement and federal authorities. A recent memorandum from the New Jersey State Police has instructed troopers to refrain from assisting federal immigration enforcement, reigniting debates over the state’s “sanctuary” policies and their implications.​

Background: New Jersey’s Immigration Policies

In 2018, New Jersey’s Attorney General Gurbir Grewal issued the Immigrant Trust Directive, aiming to delineate the roles of state and local law enforcement in federal immigration matters. This policy restricts officers from:​AP News+1Insider NJ+1

  • Inquiring about immigration status unless essential to a criminal investigation.​
  • Assisting ICE in immigration enforcement operations.​Shore News Network+4AP News+4Fox News+4
  • Detaining individuals based solely on civil immigration detainers.​Fox News

The directive seeks to foster trust within immigrant communities, ensuring that individuals feel secure in reporting crimes and cooperating with police without fear of deportation. ​AP News

Recent Developments: State Police Memorandum

A recent memorandum from the New Jersey State Police has reiterated the state’s position by directing troopers to avoid collaboration with federal immigration authorities. This directive aligns with the state’s longstanding policies but has faced criticism from various quarters.​

Critics argue that such policies impede federal efforts to enforce immigration laws and may compromise public safety by limiting information sharing between state and federal agencies. They contend that this stance effectively creates a barrier to the enforcement of federal immigration laws, potentially shielding individuals who may pose security risks. ​Fox News

Legal and Political Responses

The tension between New Jersey’s policies and federal immigration enforcement has led to a series of legal and political confrontations:​

  • Federal Lawsuit: In 2018, the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against New Jersey, challenging the Immigrant Trust Directive. Attorney General William Barr argued that the policy obstructed federal immigration enforcement and violated the Constitution. ​AP News+1Insider NJ+1
  • State Legislation: State legislators have introduced bills aiming to repeal sanctuary policies, arguing that local law enforcement should cooperate with ICE to enhance public safety and uphold federal laws. These legislative efforts reflect a broader national debate over the role of state versus federal authority in immigration enforcement. ​Fox News+1Shore News Network+1
  • Public Discourse: Public opinion in New Jersey is divided on the issue. While some support the state’s protective stance towards immigrants, others express concern over potential risks associated with limiting cooperation with federal authorities. This division underscores the complexity of balancing humanitarian considerations with security concerns.​

The Role of Legal Experts: Insights from Attorney Habba

Amidst these developments, legal experts like Attorney Habba have weighed in on the implications of the state’s policies. Habba maintains that the State Police memorandum does not significantly alter existing practices, asserting that the state’s position aligns with its longstanding policies on immigration enforcement. She emphasizes that the directive is a reaffirmation of current protocols rather than a substantial policy shift.​

Habba’s perspective reflects a broader sentiment among some legal professionals who view the memorandum as a procedural clarification rather than a provocative stance against federal immigration efforts. However, this viewpoint is not universally shared, and debates continue over the effectiveness and legality of such directives.​

Looking Ahead: The Future of Immigration Enforcement in New Jersey

The discourse surrounding New Jersey’s immigration policies is far from settled. As legal challenges progress and political debates intensify, the state’s approach will likely continue to evolve. Key considerations for the future include:​

  • Legal Challenges: Ongoing litigation will play a crucial role in determining the constitutionality and enforceability of state policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.​
  • Legislative Actions: Proposed bills aiming to modify or repeal sanctuary policies will influence the balance of power between state and federal authorities and shape the state’s approach to immigration enforcement.​
  • Public Opinion: Shifts in public sentiment may impact policy decisions, especially as communities weigh the benefits of cooperative law enforcement against concerns over civil liberties and public safety.​

In conclusion, New Jersey’s stance on immigration enforcement exemplifies the complexities facing states as they navigate federal mandates, public opinion, and legal constraints. As developments unfold, stakeholders across the political and legal spectrum will continue to advocate for policies they believe best serve the interests of the state and its residents.

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A Tribute to New York Poets and the Influence of Robert Frost in Music

by Jersey ShoreMusic

The connection between poetry, place, and time is a theme that resonates deeply in both literature and music. This particular piece pays tribute to the poets who enhance our digital pages with their craft, especially those whose works often reflect the heartbeat of New York City. Poets like Charles Pierre and George Held regularly draw on the vibrant energy of the city, infusing their verses with the essence of urban life.

Pierre and Held have both contributed poems set in the early spring, when crocuses push through the snow and the city parks become a haven for nocturnal inspiration. Yet, despite the arrival of spring, there’s a personal refrain here, as I wait for the fierce nor’easters to pass, taking their chill winds and snowflakes with them, before fully embracing the warmth of new beginnings.

As I present their work on Blogfinger, I always try to intertwine the realities of life, setting the stage for their poetic creations. Poetry, after all, is not just about words but the moments they capture, the emotions they evoke, and the places they take us.

The song below, sung by the five-time Grammy nominee Karrin Allyson, comes from her album Collage. It was written by jazz bassist and songwriter Jay Leonhart, who is likely the bassist on this recording. Leonhart is well-known for his distinctive blend of humor and musicality, often performing live while accompanying himself on the upright bass. Having had the pleasure of hearing Jay perform on several occasions, I can attest to the charm and wit he brings to his original songs. He’s played alongside legends such as Frank Sinatra, Gerry Mulligan, Marian McPartland, and Tony Bennett, further cementing his place in jazz history.

The song, titled “Robert Frost,” is a delightful and fitting tribute to the poet. Its rhythm and lyrics evoke the spirit of Frost’s contemplative nature, and I believe our readers, especially those who are passionate about poetry, will appreciate its charm. It’s a wonderful piece that beautifully ties together the worlds of jazz, poetry, and the unique atmosphere of New York.

As we wait for the last of the winter winds to leave New Jersey behind, this song offers a lovely bridge between the creative forces of poetry and music, bringing us closer to the rhythm of both the season and the city that never sleeps.


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Exploring Dining Delights During Jersey Shore Restaurant Week in Belmar, NJ

by Food & BeverageJersey ShoreRestaurants

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week is back, and Belmar, NJ, is serving up an array of dining experiences you won’t want to miss. From March 28 to April 6, 2025, the popular coastal town invites food lovers to indulge in a variety of special menus and delicious deals at some of its top restaurants. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the week, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the culinary gems Belmar has to offer.

During this highly anticipated event, participating restaurants showcase their best dishes with prix-fixe menus, providing patrons with a chance to experience a diverse range of flavors at affordable prices. From fresh seafood to classic Italian dishes, Belmar’s vibrant dining scene has something for every palate.

Some standout options to consider include waterfront dining with breathtaking views, cozy bistros, and upscale eateries, all offering special promotions to make your dining experience extra memorable. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a more refined experience, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your taste.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week is the perfect time to explore Belmar’s local dining scene, try new spots, and enjoy delicious meals with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this culinary celebration, running from March 28 to April 6, 2025—mark your calendars and prepare to savor the flavors of the Shore!

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Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere’s Ride on April 18

by BusinessExplore New JerseyJersey ShoreNorth JerseyShopping

Join Morris County’s “Two If By Sea” Campaign; Shine Two Lamps for Two Hours

Paul Revere and other American patriots rode into the night of April 18, 1775, warning Minute Men and militias in Massachusetts that British troops were crossing the mouth of the Charles River from Boston to seize their guns and quell their budding rebellion.

Their ride, and the American Revolution, were triggered by a simple signal: two lanterns hung from the bell tower of Boston’s tallest building, the Old North Church. Two lanterns meant the troops were crossing the Charles River at the Boston Harbor or “Two If By Sea,” and the next day, the British were met in Lexington and Concord by armed militants in skirmishes that became known as “the shot heard round the world.”

Join Morris County this Good Friday, April 18, 2025, in celebrating “Two If By Sea,” that fateful evening 250 years ago when the lamps were hung. Place two lamps, lanterns or lights for two hours in the windows of homes, businesses, churches, stores and town halls or schools between 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The simple homage will begin April 18 with the Morris County Board of County Commissioners and the Morris County 250th Anniversary Steering Committee shining two beacons from both the Morris County Courthouse and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Morristown. The clergy, staff and congregation of St. Peter’s, an Anglican church, is graciously supporting the celebration, as the Old North Church in Boston was also an Anglican church in 1775.

“Two If By Sea”

Revere is credited with developing the signal plan: One lantern if the British marched out of Boston via a land bridge to the mainland; two lanterns if they rowed boats across the mouth of the Charles River from Boston in their march to Lexington and Concord.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow memorialized – and romanticized – the events 85 years later with his famous poem, Paul Revere’s Ride, which included the stanza:

“One if by land, and two if by sea; and I on the opposite shore will be, ready to ride and spread the alarm through every Middlesex village and farm, for the country-folk to be up and to arm.”

The signal activated a network of riders — including Paul Revere and William Dawes — who spread the word across Massachusetts’ countryside. By morning, colonial militia were ready for British forces in Lexington, where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired, and then again as the battered British moved on to Concord.

“This campaign brings us together to honor the night that changed the course of our nation,” said Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to the Morris County 250th Anniversary Steering Committee. “We hope to see homes, public buildings and landmarks across Morris County shining with two lights, to reflect on the bravery of our forefathers that brought about a pivotal moment in our history.”

Everyone is encouraged to take photos of homes, businesses and other places joining the event and to post them to social media using #TwoIfBySea. Please mention: @MorrisCountyNJ.

“Lighting two lanterns didn’t just warn a town, it activated a movement,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, liaison to the Morris County 250th Anniversary Steering Committee. “It was the first signal in a revolution driven by ordinary citizens standing up for extraordinary ideals.”

The Morris County Commissioners are formally endorsing the campaign with a proclamation to be adopted, tomorrow, April 9.

The “Two If By Sea” campaign is part of a broader effort to celebrate Morris County’s 250th Anniversary, a multi-year observance the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 spearheaded by the Morris County Tourism Bureau, as well as the County Commissioners and 250th Anniversary Steering Committee. Efforts kicked off locally in September 2024 with the rededication of a Revolutionary War-era replica cannon outside the Morris County Historical Society at Acorn Hall.

More events and programs will be announced throughout 2025 and 2026, as Morris County continues to commemorate its critical role in the founding of the United States.

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Image 1: The equestrian statue of Paul Revere by Cyrus Edwin Dallin is installed at Paul Revere Mall near the Old North Church in Boston, Mass.

Image 2: Two lanterns lit in front of a window.

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Town-Wide Yard Sale begins now to collect participants. April 7, 2025

by Jersey Shore

 

OG Town-Wide Yard Sale.

 

Paul Goldfinger: Directions to our sales. And have you met my hoe?

 

We will now begin developing our list of Yard-Sale participants.  So you can sign up now or anytime through June 6.

To sign up for the list, send us your name, address, and nearest cross street to Blogfinger@verizon.net.    We would like to know your names but it is not essential.   We will only post your names if you ask us to.

And you can add sale items anytime through June 6. We will save those and  we won’t post  the sale items until about June 1.

The address  list will begin posting in May, but now is a good time to make a decision about joining.   By signing up you will be motivated to organize your items for sale.   Whenever possible try to convince friends or neighbors to arrange group sales.  The sales will be successful even if the number is small, but the more sales, the better.  Our best effort was 65 sales a few years ago.

We are hoping for an affair to remember.

Note that the rain date is Sunday June 8, but we will have the sales if the rain is mild.

If anyone wants to see the list, they can go to Blogfinger.net.   Later we will have a tab at the top of our home page which can be clicked to see the list.   Viewing the list will be possible after May 1.

There will be advertising. Email us if you would like some fliers to use. Feel free to help promote the sales. I will post a banner on our house.  You can attach a flier to your house.

You must get a permit from the building department at town hall.  Tell them you are with a group sale, and it should cost $5.00.

Questions?  Email us at Blogfinger@verizon.net

Eileen and Paul Goldfinger.    Blogfinger.net.        Blogfinger@verizon.net

 

JOHN CAFFERTY:

 


 

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Belmar Vacation Rentals Offering the Comforts of Home

by Jersey Shore

If you’re planning a getaway to the Jersey Shore, look no further than the Blue Hydrangea Cottage, a highly-rated vacation rental in Belmar, NJ. This charming, owner-operated rental is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay by the beach, offering all the amenities you need to feel right at home.

A Cozy Retreat by the Shore

Located in the heart of Belmar, the Blue Hydrangea Cottage is an ideal choice for those looking to experience the best of the Jersey Shore. The property provides a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with spacious accommodations and all the comforts you could want during your stay. Whether you’re planning a summer vacation with the family, a romantic getaway, or a weekend retreat, the cottage is designed to cater to a variety of needs.

Weekly Summer Rentals in Belmar

The Blue Hydrangea Cottage is available for weekly summer rentals, making it a convenient option for those looking to escape to the shore for an extended stay. You’ll enjoy the convenience of being close to Belmar’s beautiful beaches, lively boardwalk, and delicious dining options, while also having a peaceful retreat to return to at the end of the day.

Amenities to Make You Feel At Home

What sets the Blue Hydrangea Cottage apart is the attention to detail and the amenities that make it feel like a home away from home. The cottage is fully equipped with everything you need, from modern kitchen appliances to comfortable living spaces and cozy bedrooms. You’ll have access to high-speed internet, air conditioning, and a private outdoor space, perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun.

The Ideal Base for Your Belmar Vacation

With its prime location and home-like comforts, the Blue Hydrangea Cottage is the perfect base for exploring Belmar and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the sun on the beach, enjoying water activities, or simply strolling through the charming town, this vacation rental offers a comfortable and convenient place to return to each day.

Make your next Jersey Shore vacation unforgettable by booking your stay at the Blue Hydrangea Cottage. With its combination of comfort, location, and style, it’s a top choice for those seeking a relaxing, memorable experience in Belmar.

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2025 TOWNWIDE YARD SALE. Mark your calendars for Saturday June 7, 2025.

by Jersey ShoreShopping

Eileen and Paul Goldfinger, Editors, Blogfinger.net

June Saturdays will be busy.   The Giant Craft show by the Chamber of Commercials will be on May 31.  The Art on the Porch will be June 14.  And we will be have our Town-Wide Yard Sale on June 7.   This date should be convenient.  Parking will be fine.

This is a down-home event mostly for Grovarian citizens to schmooze all over town.  And if tourists want to come, they will be the sort who love our porch culture and our sociable folks.

We will have a detailed post soon  to fill in the blanks.  But the Town-Wide Yard sale will be organized as before.  Our centerpiece will be our on-line list of participants, addresses and items for sale.   If you want to put your name on the list or if you have something to say, we have email:    Blogfinger@verizon.net.

Instead of hanging around on the boardwalk, plan to visit our OG Town-Wide yard sale on June 7. Or you can do both.  All photos by Paul Goldfinger , Editor of Blogfinger.net.   Eileen and I will be in charge and perhaps some of you will offer to help us. Click once on photos to enlarge.

Last June they came from near and far to visit the OG Town-Wide Sale. This Bradley Beacher babe found a photograph of mine that she loves. It is Central Park on its side.

OG in June  can be cold, so skip the beach and go shopping at our Town-Wide Yard Sale on June 7  instead.  Click once to see a Grover girl in her almost  summer clothes.  All photos by Paul Goldfinger.

Walk around and see the sites during the June 7  yard-sales. Paul Goldfinger  photo is from the Craft Show on the Pathway, but there always is fun all around the Grove including our Town-Wide sales.

Don’t be blue like Sonny.  Be happy on yard sale day.  Have fun with us on June 7, 2025,  and there will be a rain date on June 8.

Kim Cataluna:


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Belmar Tourism: Visitor Guide To Beach Tags, Parking And More

by EntertainmentFood & BeverageJersey ShorePizzaSports

Belmar Beach Visitor Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a trip to Belmar Beach? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, here’s your go-to guide for everything you need to know about enjoying this beautiful Jersey Shore destination. From beach tags and parking to dining options and beach amenities, we’ve got you covered for a perfect beach day.

Beach Tags: What You Need to Know

To access Belmar Beach, you’ll need to purchase a beach tag. These are required for everyone ages 16 and older. Tags are available for daily use, as well as for weekly or seasonal access, making it convenient for both short and long stays. You can purchase your beach tags at various locations around Belmar or online for added convenience. Be sure to keep your beach tag visible while enjoying the sand and surf!

Parking Information

Belmar Beach has a variety of parking options, though it can get crowded, especially on busy summer days. Metered parking is available near the beach, but spaces tend to fill up quickly during peak hours. There are also several parking lots within walking distance of the beach, though availability can be limited. Consider arriving early to secure a spot, or explore alternative transportation options like biking or using a rideshare service.

Dining and Places to Eat

After a fun day in the sun, you’ll want to refuel with some delicious food. Belmar offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to more formal dining experiences. Popular spots include seafood restaurants with fresh catches of the day, pizza joints, and casual cafes serving up beachside snacks. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Beach Amenities

Belmar Beach is well-equipped with plenty of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. There are restrooms, outdoor showers to rinse off the sand, and ample beachside concessions for snacks and drinks. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring safety while you swim or sunbathe. For those looking for a little extra comfort, you can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other equipment to make your beach day even more relaxing.

Other Attractions in Belmar

Beyond the beach, Belmar offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a stroll along the Belmar Boardwalk, which features stunning views of the ocean, or head to one of the local parks for a picnic. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try out water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or fishing. Belmar is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and entertainment options to explore after the sun sets.

With its pristine beaches, convenient amenities, and plenty to do both on and off the sand, Belmar is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach day or a fun weekend getaway. Be sure to keep this guide handy for a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Jersey Shore!

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Vote Now: 5 Iconic New Jersey Boardwalks Competing for National Recognition

by EntertainmentFilm & TVJersey ShoreMusic

New Jersey boasts some of the most iconic boardwalks in the United States, each offering a unique blend of history, entertainment, and seaside charm. These boardwalks have garnered national recognition, with several ranking among the top in the nation. Here’s a closer look at these celebrated boardwalks:​

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

As the nation’s first boardwalk, established in 1870, Atlantic City’s boardwalk stretches over four miles along the Jersey Shore. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, it features a plethora of restaurants, casinos, and shops, making it a central hub for both tourists and locals.

2. Wildwood Boardwalk

The Wildwood Boardwalk is a lively two-mile promenade known for its distinctive “Doo-Wop” architecture and an array of amusement options. It houses Morey’s Piers, offering over 100 rides and attractions, including thrilling roller coasters and water parks, ensuring a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.

3. Seaside Heights Boardwalk

Seaside Heights’ boardwalk is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, featuring numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and the Casino Pier amusement park, which includes various attractions and a water park. It’s also known as the backdrop for MTV’s “Jersey Shore” reality show. ​

4. Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk (Jenkinson’s Boardwalk)

Located in Point Pleasant Beach, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is a one-mile stretch offering a variety of family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium, arcades, mini-golf, and numerous eateries, making it a favorite destination for both residents and tourists. ​

5. Asbury Park Boardwalk

Asbury Park’s boardwalk is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and live music venues, including the historic Stone Pony. The area combines cultural richness with seaside beauty, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and entertainment.​

These boardwalks exemplify the diverse coastal culture of New Jersey, each offering a unique experience that contributes to the state’s rich heritage and appeal.

Vote Now: 5 Iconic New Jersey Boardwalks Competing for National Recognition

Here’s your chance to show some love for New Jersey! Five of the state’s most iconic boardwalks are battling it out for national recognition, and your vote can help put them on the map. These beloved spots are going head-to-head with boardwalks from across the nation, and now it’s time to rally behind our home turf.

From family-friendly fun to stunning seaside views, New Jersey’s boardwalks have long been a staple of summer life. Now, they’re vying for a place among the best of the best in the country, and your vote can make all the difference. Whether you’re a fan of the classic charm of the Jersey Shore or you love the unique character of each coastal town, this is the moment to represent New Jersey and make sure our boardwalks stand out.

So, cast your vote and help make sure that these iconic boardwalks get the recognition they deserve. Don’t miss the chance to back your favorite and celebrate what makes New Jersey’s coastlines truly special!

Now it’s your turn to vote for your favorite. Cast a vote once a day at USA Today 10Best. Voting ends on Monday, April 7 at noon ET. America’s top ten will be announced on Wednesday, April 16. New Jersey needs you. Vote early AND often.

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 4/5/2025

by BusinessCentral JerseyDinersFilm & TVHealth & WellnessJersey ShoreLaw & OrderNorth JerseyPolitics

Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “That case did appear to be a very personal matter. I would say, if we were talking off to the side, that a number of people feel equally aggrieved at the Norcross event, top to bottom.” – Senator Burzichelli to AG Platkin, saying the case was ‘painful to watch’

TOP STORY: In Booker, Democrats Finally Make a Stand

NJ high school graduation rates increased in 2024, and absenteeism dropped, according to NorthJersey.com.

The NJDOH says the state has dropped beneath the herd immunity threshold for measles, according to Politico NJ.

With Senator Booker’s 25-hour floor speech, Democrats made a stand as they seek to find their footing.

Nadine Arslanian Menendez’s trial is delayed by motions and filings, according to NJ Herald.

The push is underway to stop flash mobs and pop-up parties at the Shore, according to NJ Spotlight.

The offshore wind controversy continues at the Jersey Shore, according to TAPinto.

Union County is seeking proposals for the jail property, drawing criticism, according to UC Hawk.

ICYMI: Booker made history; Christie considers Habba, gives guv race perspective

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Here’s a list of every candidate running for Governor and Assembly in the primaries, according to NJ Globe.

Kranjac is eligible for the GOP gubernatorial primary ballot, according to NJ Monitor.

The LD8 legislators endorsed Ciattarelli for Governor.

The gubernatorial field is down to 11 – for now, according to Burlington County Times.

Sussex County Commissioner Hayden won’t be on the GOP primary ballot, according to NJ Herald.

ICYMI: Fulop formally announced Collum as LG pick to strengthen candidacy; Fulop LG names circulating; Sweeney picked fight with Sherrill; notable observations from filing day; source describes GOP guv primary as ‘over’; Russo slammed Spiller; guv primary movements sparked intrigue; Fulop to announce LG pick; Sherrill unveiled ‘Affordability Agenda’; Durr ended guv bid; Pennacchio endorsed Ciattarelli; Wimberly hasn’t decided on guv pick

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Download and read Insider NJ’s Healthcare Power List publication.

AG Platkin was grilled by the Senate Budget Committee, according to NJ Monitor.

The state wants to tax some recreational activities, but some key leaders say no, according to NJ.com.

Legislators say foreign companies shouldn’t have access to state contracts and data, according to NJ.com.

Fiscal experts forecast a bump in near-term tax revenues, according to NJ Spotlight.

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

In Harvey Cedars, a beach project began, according to the Sandpaper.

In Hawthorne, the schools superintendent will retire, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Hoboken, the council approved a measure mandating 10%+ rent hike disclosures, according too Hudson County View.

In Jersey City, 32BJ released mayoral endorsements.

In Millburn, Republicans endorsed Senator Bramnick for Governor.

In Parsippany, the zoning board heard pushback for a mosque’s building plans, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Phillipsburg, five Republicans and four Democrats are running for council according to TAPinto.

In Pompton Lakes, a lawsuit alleges police had a illegal ticket quota, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Ridgewood, an ordinance would ban feeding wildlife on private property, according to NorthJersey.com.

In Randolph, BOE candidates squared off, according to NJ Hills.

In Rockaway, the GOP primary is mired at the moment.

In Ship Bottom, public works projects are springing forward, according to the Sandpaper.

In South Plainfield, a judge tossed a captain’s whistleblower lawsuit, according to MyCentralJersey.

In Summit, the council debated a homelessness ordinance, according to TAPinto.

In Toms River, Ocean County was criticized for bailing out the schools, according to the Asbury Park Press.

In Trenton, the GOTrenton! service is expanding to the entire city, according to the Trentonian.

AROUND THE WEB:

Amid uncertain conditions, NJ lawmakers deliberate $58B budget

Matthew Fazelpoor, NJBIZ

  • Budget season is in full swing in the Garden State, with hearings underway to consider Gov. Phil Murphy’s $58 billion Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal – his final as governor. The Assembly and Senate Budget committees each held public hearings in March, gathering feedback from a wide variety of constituents and groups on a range of issues — from business to K-12 and higher education to health care and more.

April 5 protest takes aim at Trump, DOGE; where are the 24 New Jersey Hands Off protests?

Lori Comstock, USA TODAY NETWORK

  • Two dozen groups have mobilized in New Jersey in advance of a planned nationwide protest against President Donald Trump’s agenda and Elon Musk’s DOGE on Saturday, April 5. The protests, which have been dubbed “Hands Off! National Day of Action,” are centered around taking a stand against Trump and Musk’s recent policy actions on topics including the shuttering of Social Security offices and firing of federal workers.

These are the NJ towns that actually lowered property taxes

Eric Scott, NJ1015

  • New Jersey is infamous for high taxes. When it comes to property taxes, we are a solid number one in the United States. No one else is even close. For the first time, the average property tax bill in New Jersey has topped $10,000.

Overcoming past rivalries, Sayegh, Khairullah endorse Wimberly slate for LD35

Joey Fox, NJ Globe

  • The Passaic County Democratic organization’s chosen slate for the 35th legislative district received endorsements today from Paterson Mayor André Sayegh, whose city is home to a majority of 35th district voters, and two other Passaic County mayors in a show of unity that masks old rivalries and electoral battles within the county.

Affordable Housing: Montclair Seeks Residents’ Opinions as N.J. Split

Matt Kadosh, Montclair Local

  • A recent survey by the FDU Poll found New Jersey voters are split on the topic of government providing builders incentives to construct more housing amid a housing crisis in New Jersey and the nation.

Atlantic County Mayors Association opposes Atlantic City Electric’s proposed rate increases

Access Network

  • The Atlantic County Mayors’ Association recently approved a resolution opposing proposed rate increases by Atlantic City Electric. The resolution calls on the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to reject an additional 8% increase following a 17% hike set to take effect in June.

Assembly members meet with residents opposed to Solberg Airport expansion

NJ Hills

  • State Assembly members from the 16th Legislative District Roy Freiman and Mitchell Drulis, both D-Hunterdon, met on Friday, March 28, with members of the Branchburg/Readington Airport Action Coalition (BRAAC) to discuss the Master Plan for the development of Solberg Airport in Readington Township.

New Jersey Attorney General needs bolder stance when dealing with police time theft

LA Parker, The Trentonian

  • A New Jersey Attorney General release offered this plot line. Susaida Nazario, 44, was charged on March 25 with accepting unlawful benefits as a public servant, theft by deception, two counts of official misconduct, and pattern of official misconduct.

Remembering Judy Kicha, who became a cop in the 1960s, when very few women dared

Matt Fagan, NorthJersey.com

  • Judith Kicha did something very few women did in the 1960s — she was a police officer. The career choice was so rare that at that time, she was only the second woman to be hired as an officer by the city’s police department. On March 27, Kicha died at age 82, leaving behind a legacy of being tough and smashing glass ceilings.

Trenton charter school building ‘Foundation’ for classroom success

LA Parker, The Trentonian

  • A Trenton-based public charter school received high marks in School Performance Reports from the NJ Department of Education. Foundation Academy Charter School headed a list of public charter schoolsenjoying significant classroom achievement.

On anniversary of MLK Jr.’s death, NJ friends and fans recall meeting a civil rights icon

Ricardo Kaulessar, NorthJersey.com

  • Theodora Lacey still displays the Christmas cards that the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. sent her family in her Teaneck home. “I keep them on my bookshelf to look at them often,” Lacey said.

Targeting biomedical research over ‘woke’ policies hurts all of New Jersey

Jen A. Miller, NJ Monitor

  • In February, health experts at Rutgers University published an alarming report: A currently available blood test for Alzheimer’s disease was not accurate in Black patients. The test measures the level of p-Tau217, which is a protein that indicates someone might have Alzheimer’s.

Commemoration of the 160th Anniversary Marking the End of the Civil War to Take Place in Mercer County

Trenton Journal

  • Mercer County will commemorate the 160th anniversary of key events marking the end of the Civil War with a special program on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Mercer Cemetery, located at 43 S. Clinton Avenue, Trenton, NJ.

Odds of NJ surviving an alien invasion

Jeff Deminski, NJ1015

  • Ever see those ridiculous articles that come out when some study or another concludes which state would fare best if a zombie apocalypse happened? Silly, right? I mean we have real issues going on in this country. Are tariffs the way to go? Is Signalgate worthy of a closer look? So this isn’t another silly zombie apocalypse article. No. This is a silly alien invasion article.

Op-Ed: Trump’s tariffs prove he understands how to deal with China

Chris Smith

  • Special thanks to President Trump for demanding fairness and reciprocity in international trade and his strategic vision and actions to reindustrialize our nation, create jobs and boost economic prosperity. Right now, there is one country, above all, which engages in egregiously unfair and predatory trade practices designed not simply to benefit themselves, but to harm our country. That country is the People’s Republic of China under Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party, which racks up ruinous trade deficits with the United States and seeks to undermine our industrial base.

Fact-checking Trump’s US Attorney pick for NJ

Ted Cruz, NJ Spotlight

  • Alina Habba first came to prominence as personal attorney to President Trump during his civil trials for assault and corruption. And all that advocacy for the president has had its benefits, as Habba goes from a modest civil law practice to interim U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey in the space of a year.

Trump administration suppresses pregnancy risk data

Lilo H. Stainton, NJ Spotlight

  • Early in their effort to reduce racial disparities in maternal deaths, New Jersey officials dove deep into a decades-old dataset to find out why Black mothers were dying at far higher rates than white moms.

Electricity costs will go up in June. Will NJ residents see relief in bills this spring?

Amanda Wallace, NorthJersey.com

  • New Jersey residents have seen sharp increases in their utility costs throughout the last year and monthly bills are not expected to go down any time soon. Instead, many residents across the state can expect a price hike in the coming months, the state Board of Public Utilities announced in February after the state’s annual electricity auction.

Report calls this South Jersey city worst in New Jersey; where is it and what’s wrong?

Lori Comstock, USA TODAY NETWORK

  • A New Jersey city with just over 26,000 residents has been ranked the worst place to live in the Garden State. Financial news site 24/7 Wall St. compiled a list naming the “worst community” in each U.S. state, considering three main categories — economy, community and overall quality of life.

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