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Explore New Jersey BlueClaws: Your Guide to the New Food & Drink Items at ShoreTown Ballpark This Year – BlueClaws Concession Guide, Ballpark Beer Guide & New Restaurants.

by Food & BeverageJersey ShoreJersey Shore BlueClawsPizza

A Delicious New Season at ShoreTown Ballpark

Baseball season is here, and with it comes a lineup of exciting new food and drink options at ShoreTown Ballpark! Whether you’re a die-hard BlueClaws fan or just visiting for the fun atmosphere, there’s something delicious waiting for you at the concessions. Let’s dive into the latest offerings!

BlueClaws Concession Guide

The BlueClaws are offering an impressive variety of mouth-watering concession options throughout ShoreTown Ballpark, catering to every taste with exciting choices from classic ballpark staples to unique, local favorites. Here’s a detailed rundown of what’s available:

Grub Tubs

A fan favorite, the Grub Tubs return this season. These collectible tubs feature a BlueClaws-themed cup filled with soda, a tub of fries, and your choice of hot dog, hamburger, cheeseburger, or chicken tenders. You can find these tasty combos at both the first and third base concession stands.

First Base Concourse (Sections 101 to 107)

Taylor Pork Roll Stand

New in 2024, the Taylor Pork Roll Stand is a must-visit for fans of this Jersey Shore delicacy. Located behind Section 101, it features a variety of Pork Roll offerings like Pork Roll Mac ‘n Cheese, Pork Roll & Cheese, Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese, and a rotating burger each homestand. Stop by to enjoy a local favorite!

First Base Concession Stand

For those craving classic ballpark fare, this stand has it all: Sabrett Hot Dogs, burgers (including veggie options), chicken tenders, fried chicken sandwiches, and more. Satisfy your cravings with fries, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, pretzels, nachos, and plenty of sweets like gluten-free chocolate chip brownies and cookies. Drinks include soda, water, apple juice, and beer.

ShoreTown Tacos

Located behind Section 102, ShoreTown Tacos offers a range of delicious tacos, including pork carnitas, beef, chicken, and pork roll. You can also try their walking tacos – a fun twist with Doritos, nacho cheese, and various toppings, all served in a bag!

Mini Melts / Hand Dip / Philadelphia Water Ice

Cool off with a treat from the Mini Melts Ice Cream stand, offering fun ice cream flavors like rainbow, cotton candy, cookies and cream, and shark bait.

Behind Home Plate (Section 108)

Philly Cheesesteaks

Indulge in classic Philly cheesesteaks, chicken cheesesteaks with peppers and onions, or sausage at the stand behind Section 108. Pair it with one of their snack options for a complete ballpark experience.

Third Base Concourse (Sections 109 – 115)

Third Base Concession Stand

This stand is packed with more ballpark favorites, including Sabrett Hot Dogs, burgers, veggie burgers, chicken tenders, and classic fried chicken sandwiches. They also offer fries, peanuts, Cracker Jacks, nachos, and sweet options like gluten-free brownies and cookies. New this season, try the Nacho Cheeseburger, loaded with nacho cheese, jalapenos, and salsa, or the BBQ Hot Dog, topped with pulled pork, cole slaw, and BBQ sauce. Drinks include soda, milk, apple juice, and beer.

Popcorn Cart

Grab freshly-popped popcorn at the cart just inside the Third Base Gate. They also sell bottled water and soda.

Mini Melts Ice Cream

The popular Mini Melts stand here offers a variety of flavors like birthday cake, chocolate, cookie dough, cookies & cream, and rainbow.

Grab & Go

A new walk-through station behind Section 110, Grab & Go offers quick snacks like soda, beer, hot dogs, pretzels, chips, and candy.

Funnel Cakes

Located behind Section 114, the Funnel Cake stand is the perfect place to treat yourself to funnel cakes, churros, fried Oreos, and other fried sweet treats.

Outfield Concourse

Shore Town Soft Serve

For a sweet treat in the outfield, visit Shore Town Soft Serve near the Mini Golf Course. They serve soft serve ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or swirl), water ice, gluten-free chocolate chip brownies, candy, and more.

Crust Station by Marinella’s

Located next to Shore Town Soft Serve, the Crust Station by Marinella’s brings delicious pizza from Marinella’s Italian Restaurant and Pizza in Lakewood. Enjoy a slice before heading over to the mini golf course!

With so many delicious options throughout the ballpark, the BlueClaws are sure to satisfy every craving during your visit to ShoreTown Ballpark!

Ballpark Beer Guide

A BlueClaws Game and an Ice-Cold Beer – The Perfect Pairing!

There’s nothing quite like a BlueClaws game and an ice-cold beer to make your summer complete! Below, check out the fantastic selection of beers available throughout ShoreTown Ballpark this season.

Our Beer: Reel Claw – In Partnership with Heavy Reel Brewing Co.

Through an exciting partnership with Heavy Reel Brewing Company, the BlueClaws are bringing their very own beer to life! Reel Claw is a 5% ABV Session IPA, brewed with an oat and wheat-heavy grist bill and hopped with Citra and Mosaic. The result? A refreshing beer bursting with flavors and aromas of tropical citrus and summer melon—the perfect complement to a day at the ballpark!

Where to Find Reel Claw:

  • Blue Wave Bar
  • Sand Bar
  • Heavy Reel Brewing Taphouse at ShoreTown (Behind Section 109)
  • Concession stands at ShoreTown Ballpark
  • Heavy Reel Brewing Co. & Select Locations

Learn Our Story

Weekly Beer Specials

Thursday – Thirsty Thursdays!

  • Enjoy $2 Coors & Coors Light cans at the BlueClaws Sand Bar and concourse-wide!
  • Join the Thirsty Thursday Club for exclusive perks! Click here to learn more.

Saturday – Beer Specials at Heavy Reel Brewing Taphouse

  • Every Saturday, enjoy a rotating beer special at the Heavy Reel Brewing Taphouse behind Section 109.

Beers of the World

Location: 1st & 3rd Base Concourses

  • $8 – 16oz Coors Light, Miller Lite, Narragansett, Yuengling
  • $9 – 16oz Blue Moon, Corona Extra, Modelo, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy
  • $9.50 – 16oz White Claw Black Cherry, White Claw Mango
  • $12.50 – 16oz Reel Claw

Beer Portable – Section 107 & 110

  • $12 – 24oz Coors Light, Fresh Catch, Miller Lite, Yuengling Draft
  • $13 – 24oz Fresh Catch, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, Sierra Nevada, Pacifico
  • $22 – Beer Bat (For the ultimate ballpark experience!)
  • $9.50 – White Claw (Mango or Black Cherry)

Concession Stands – 1st & 3rd Base Concourses

  • $8 – 16oz Coors Light, Miller Lite, Narragansett, Yuengling
  • $9 – 16oz Blue Moon, Corona Extra, Modelo, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy
  • $9.50 – 16oz White Claw Black Cherry, White Claw Mango
  • $12.50 – 16oz Reel Claw (Can or Draft)
  • Additional Heavy Reel Brewing Co. Beers – Rotating at Heavy Reel Brewing Taphouse at ShoreTown.

The Sand Bar – Third Base Concourse

  • $12 – 24oz Coors Light, Miller Lite, Yuengling Draft
  • $13 – 24oz Blue Moon, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy Draft
  • $9.50 – White Claw Can
  • $22 – Beer Bat

Wine & Cocktails at The Sand Bar

  • Wine ($9) – Red & White by the glass
  • Well Drinks – $10.50 (Well Cocktail), $12 (Premium Cocktail)
  • BlueClaws Signature Cocktails ($12):
    • Shore Thing Rum Punch – Malibu Rum, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juice, Lime Juice
    • Orange Crush – Sterling Vodka, Orange Juice, Sprite, Triple Sec
    • Beach Bum Lemonade – Garden State Distillery Beach Bum Vodka, Lemonade, Blue Curacao
    • Jersey Shore High Ball – Garden State Distillery High Tide Whiskey, Club Soda
    • Seaside Sunrise – Bribon Blanco Tequila, Orange Juice, Grenadine
    • Margate Margarita – Bribon Blanco Tequila, Lime Juice, Triple Sec

Blue Wave Bar – Luxury Suite Level

Click here to explore more about the Blue Wave Bar, a full-service restaurant open to all fans at every game.

  • $12 – 24oz Domestic Drafts (Coors Light, Yuengling)
  • $13 – 24oz Premium Drafts (Blue Moon, Leinenkugel Seasonal, Sierra Nevada Hazy IPA)
  • $12.50 – 16oz Craft Beer (Heavy Reel Reel Claw IPA)
  • $8 – 16oz Domestic Cans (Coors Light, Miller Lite, Narragansett, Yuengling)
  • $9 – 16oz Premium Cans (Blue Moon, Corona, Leinenkugel Seasonal, Modelo)
  • $9.50 – 16oz Seltzer (White Claw)
  • $10.25 – 12oz Ready-to-Drink Cocktails (Sun Cruiser, High Noon, Surfside, Dogfish Head)

Signature Cocktails ($12)

  • Orange Crush, Lemon Crush, Beach Bum Lemonade, Shore Thing Rum Punch, Seaside Sunrise, Margate Margarita, Jersey Shore High Ball

Wine ($9)

  • Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet, Merlot

With a wide variety of beers, cocktails, and wines, there’s something for every fan at ShoreTown Ballpark. Grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy America’s favorite pastime with the BlueClaws!

Order Tickets Online

Upcoming Promotions & Events

Less Than a Week to Go! See You at Opening Night on Tuesday!

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 8th – Opening Night at the Jersey Shore! Don’t miss the post-game fireworks and the first chance to see the BlueClaws take the field in 2025!

Order Tickets Online

Meet Bluey on April 26th

Join us on Saturday, April 26th, as Bluey comes to ShoreTown Ballpark! VIP tickets are sold out, but regular game tickets still offer a chance to meet this beloved character.

Order Tickets Online

Kids Eat Free Sundays Return!

Thanks to Sabrett, Kids Eat Free Sundays are back! BlueClaws Kids Club members can enjoy a free meal at the ballpark every Sunday home game.

Learn More

Locals vs. Bennys Promo – Get Your Merch!

This season, the BlueClaws will play as the Jersey Shore Locals in three games against Hudson Valley, who will take the field as The Bennys! Special merchandise is selling fast, so grab yours before it’s gone!

Shop Locals Merch | Shop Bennys Merch

Special County Days – $5 Tickets!

  • Monmouth County Day – Sunday, April 13th
  • Ocean County Day – Sunday, April 27th

Residents can purchase discounted $5 tickets using promo codes occo25 or moco25.

Read the Full Story

See You at ShoreTown Ballpark!

Get ready for an amazing season filled with baseball, fun, and fantastic food! Make sure to grab your tickets and come hungry!

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Helen Marie Pike

by BusinessJersey Shore

Helen Marie Pike ‘Mimi’, 96, of Point Pleasant Boro, passed away peacefully at 9:59 a.m. on April 1st, surrounded by her loving family. Just two weeks shy of her 97th birthday, Helen lived a long and fulfilling life dedicated to family, community, and service.

Helen was the beloved wife of the late Frederick J. Pike, and a devoted mother to Carolyn Ann, Debra Jesslyn, and her triplet sons—Jesse Frederick, John William, and James Charles—the first set of triplets born in Point Pleasant Boro in 1959.

In addition to being a loving wife and mother, Helen had a meaningful career as a nutritionist, and later as an administrative assistant in her husband’s Manufacturer’s Representative business. She also played a key role in the family’s fundraising business, ‘3-J’ Fund Raising. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in the Ocean County Twin Mother’s Club and the Point Pleasant Boro Little League, always giving her time and energy to support those around her.

Helen leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her five children, 11 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her kindness, dedication, and the love she shared with all who knew her.

A celebration of Helen’s life will be held privately with her immediate family.

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The Explore New Jersey Baseball’s Ultimate Guide to New Jersey’s Baseball Teams: What’s Coming Up for the Somerset Patriots, Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Trenton Thunder, New Jersey Jackals, and Sussex County Miners in 2025

by BaseballCentral JerseyFood & BeverageJersey ShoreJersey Shore BlueClawsNew Jersey JackalsSomerset PatriotsSussex County MinersTrenton Thunder

New Jersey is home to an exciting lineup of professional and minor league baseball teams, each bringing unique experiences and thrilling events to fans across the state. Whether you’re a Yankees or Phillies affiliate fan, love collegiate summer baseball, or enjoy the independent leagues, there’s something for everyone this season. Here’s a comprehensive look at all the key teams in the Garden State and what’s coming up in 2025.

Somerset Patriots (Double-A Affiliate of the New York Yankees)

Location: Bridgewater, NJ | Stadium: TD Bank Ballpark

The Somerset Patriots are a proud Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, offering an electric atmosphere for baseball fans in New Jersey. With a loaded promotional schedule and top prospects on the roster, here’s what to look forward to in 2025:

  • Opening Day: April 8
  • Craft Beer Tasting Night: April 24
  • Babe Ruth Bobblehead Giveaway: August 1
  • Darryl Strawberry Appearance: August 6
  • Harry Potter Night: July 10
  • Thomas Nicholas Appearance (‘Rookie of the Year’ Star): July 13
  • New York Black Yankees Tribute Game: August 2
  • Mickey Jerseys Night: April 25
  • Sopranos Night with Steve Schirripa: Date TBA
  • YES Network to Broadcast Select Games

Somerset continues to be a top destination for Yankees fans eager to see the next wave of stars before they reach the Bronx.

Jersey Shore BlueClaws (High-A Affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies)

Location: Lakewood, NJ | Stadium: ShoreTown Ballpark

As a High-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, the Jersey Shore BlueClaws offer a fantastic baseball experience at ShoreTown Ballpark. Here’s what’s coming up in 2025:

  • Opening Night: April 8, featuring post-game fireworks
  • Meet Bluey: April 26
  • Kids Eat Free Sundays: Every Sunday
  • Locals vs. Bennys Special Promo Series: Dates TBA
  • Monmouth & Ocean County Days ($5 Tickets!): April 13 & April 27

With seven of the Phillies’ top 30 prospects on the Break Camp Roster, fans will get an early look at the future of the franchise.

Trenton Thunder (MLB Draft League Collegiate Summer Team)

Location: Trenton, NJ | Stadium: Trenton Thunder Ballpark

The Trenton Thunder provide an exciting summer baseball experience in the MLB Draft League, featuring some of the best up-and-coming collegiate players. Here’s what’s new for 2025:

  • One-Night Only Transformation: The Trenton Thunder will become the Trenton Tomato Pies for a special event.
  • Multi-Million Dollar Ballpark Renovation: Enhancing the player and fan experience.
  • Bobblehead Giveaways & Daily Deals: More details coming soon.

New Jersey Jackals (Frontier League – Independent Professional Baseball)

Location: Paterson, NJ | Stadium: Hinchliffe Stadium

The New Jersey Jackals, part of the MLB-affiliated Frontier League, have a strong tradition of baseball excellence. Here are the latest headlines:

  • Konsta Kurikka Signs Historic Contract: First Finnish-born player to sign a U.S. professional contract in over 100 years.
  • Frank Nigro Joins MLB’s Minnesota Twins: Former Jackals catcher makes the big leagues.
  • Yuhi Sako Signs with the Mets: Another Jackals pitcher moves up in professional baseball.
  • Ani Ramos Inducted into the Jackals Hall of Fame

Sussex County Miners (Frontier League – Independent Professional Baseball)

Location: Augusta, NJ | Stadium: Skylands Stadium

Celebrating their 10th anniversary, the Sussex County Miners are making big moves in 2025:

  • Skylands Stadium Turf Installation: Enhancing playability and expanding community use.
  • Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival: May 3, the first event on the new turf.
  • Opening Day: May 8
  • Expanded Community Rentals & Special Events: Making Skylands Stadium a year-round facility.

From Yankees and Phillies prospects to independent league action and summer collegiate ball, New Jersey has something for every baseball fan. Whether you’re attending a Trenton Thunder bobblehead giveaway, meeting Darryl Strawberry in Somerset, or celebrating Opening Day in Lakewood, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for baseball across the state.

Don’t miss out—get your tickets and mark your calendars now!

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Norma Jean DeNoble

by Jersey Shore

Explore New Jersey: Remembering Norma Jean DeNoble – A Life of Compassion, Service, and Community

New Jersey bids farewell to Norma Jean DeNoble (née Lefelar), who passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by her loving family in Bradley Beach, NJ. A woman of deep compassion and dedication, Norma’s life was a testament to service, education, and community.

A Life Rooted in Family and Service

Born and raised in North Haledon, Norma spent her early years in a home lovingly built by her father, Norman Lefelar. Her childhood was marked by a strong sense of community and pride, especially during her time as a color guard member at Hawthorne High School. Norma pursued her passion for helping others by studying at Presbyterian Hospital in Newark, NJ, becoming a proud and dedicated registered nurse.

Her journey led her to Wyckoff, NJ, where she raised her three children. She continued to expand her knowledge, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Jersey City State College, which allowed her to transition into a beloved school nurse within the Wyckoff school system.

A Dream Fulfilled in Greenwich, NJ

Upon retirement, Norma embraced her lifelong dream of owning a farm in the picturesque town of Greenwich, NJ. There, she found joy in gardening, watching the changing seasons, and expressing her creativity through knitting baby sweaters and teddy bears, which she generously gifted and donated.

Her love for literature and the arts led her to volunteer with Gallery 50 and Friends of the Bridgeton Library, where she forged deep friendships and became an integral part of the local cultural community.

A Legacy of Love and Generosity

Norma was predeceased by her parents, Norman and Greta Lefelar, but her legacy lives on through her loving family:

  • Her brother, Tom Lefelar, and his wife, Kathy

  • Her devoted children: Michael (Ann Marie), Jane (T.J.), and Marjorie (Michael)

  • Her grandchildren, whom she adored and took immense pride in: Aidan, Ella, Ian, and Eryn

  • Her niece Patricia, and nephews Steve, Storm, and John, along with their families

  • Her beloved Cook/Spiotta cousins, with whom she cherished annual gatherings at the Culinary Picnic

Affectionately known as ‘Grandma Cookie’, Norma expressed her love through baking countless batches of her famous cookies, sharing warmth and sweetness with everyone around her.

Honoring Norma’s Memory

A celebration of Norma’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, her family kindly requests that donations be made to:

Friends of the Bridgeton Library
C/O Bridgeton Public Library
150 East Commerce St.
Bridgeton, NJ 08302

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to O’Brien Funeral Home, Wall Twp. Condolences may be shared at O’Brien Funeral Home.

Norma Jean DeNoble’s kindness, dedication, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of many. Her legacy of service and love will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Lucretia ‘Dita’ Greer

by Explore New JerseyFilm & TVJersey Shore

Lucretia, known lovingly as Dita, passed away on March 27th at the family home that her father built in 1940. She was a life-long resident of Avon-by-the-Sea. Dita loved her town and was a fixture in this sea-side community.

She graduated from Avon Elementary School and Asbury Park High School. She attended Wooster College. In her early years, she worked at Maypink’s Pharmacy as a soda jerk. After college, Dita was employed as a secretary for Carton Law Firm. She volunteered for the Avon Sr. Citizens organization and was a bingo caller for many years.

Church was always a central part of Dita’s life and at a very young age she began playing the organ at the Avon United Methodist Church. She also served as the church’s secretary and helped run many of their charitable events. Dita loved the AMC and was a devoted parishioner until the church was forced to close in 2016. At the young age of 83, Ballard Methodist Church welcomed Dita as their organist.

Dita was preceded in death by her parents Garth Shamel and Elizabeth (Butler) Shamel, her husband Donald K. Greer Sr., and her brother-in-law, David W. Feeney.

Surviving to cherish her memory are her sons Donald K. Greer, Jr., Garth S. Greer Sr. (Cynthia), and Conrad S. Greer (Jennifer), her loving grandchildren and great grandchildren, Garth S. Greer Jr., Bridget Bowden (Daniel), Amy L. Greer, Savannah R. Greer, Bryson Bowden and Jack Bowden, her very special sisters Betsy Feeney and Susie (Frank) Carey, and all her nieces, nephews and cousins.

Our heartfelt thank you to Elizabeth Mwanza, Dita’s caregiver, and friend.

A service will be held on Monday, April 7th at 11:30am at the Ballard Methodist Church, 1515 4th Ave., Asbury Park, NJ. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ballard Methodist Church or Alzheimer’s/NJ (https://www.alznj.org/).

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ.

OBIT-Robert-Eugene-Kenney

Robert Eugene Kenney

by BusinessExplore New JerseyJersey Shore

Obituary: Robert Eugene Kenney, Beloved New Jersey Resident

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Eugene Kenney, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left us peacefully on [insert date] at the age of [insert age]. Robert, a lifelong resident of New Jersey, passed away surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and dedication to his family and community.

Born in [insert birthplace] on [insert birthdate], Robert was the son of the late [insert parent’s names]. He was a proud graduate of [insert school or university] and went on to have a successful career in [insert career field, e.g., business, education, engineering]. Robert’s work ethic and commitment to excellence earned him the respect of his colleagues, but it was his deep sense of compassion and his willingness to help others that truly defined him.

Robert was a man of great warmth and generosity. He loved spending time with his family, whether it was during Sunday dinners, family vacations, or simply sharing stories around the dinner table. His dedication to his children and grandchildren was unwavering, and he cherished every moment he spent with them. He had a unique ability to make those around him feel special, offering guidance and support whenever needed.

Outside of his family, Robert was an active member of his community, volunteering with various local organizations and charities. He had a passion for giving back and believed in the importance of contributing to the well-being of others. His kindness was felt by all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply mourned by the many lives he touched.

Robert Eugene Kenney, 71, passed away on March 5, 2025. He leaves behind a loving son Zachary, a loving daughter Courtney, and a granddaughter Savannah.

Robert was a lifelong resident of Point Pleasant Boro. He graduated from Point Boro High School and traveled the world as a competitive soccer player. He was a legendary tomato harvester, but most of all a legendary father, brother, son and grandfather. His presence was undeniably graceful. His nickname was ‘Rughead’ and he made friends all along his journey. He made a living on what he got, but most of all he made a life on what he gave. He also was a legendary pool builder and an avid gardener.

He was predeceased by his mother Grace and father William, and also his loving brother Bill.

The family requests that you remember his true loyalty and compassion. A remembrance celebration may be held in his honor at a later time. Robert was cremated by Jersey Shore Cremation, Manasquan, NJ.

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Senate Select Committee’s Statement on Utility Hearing

by Explore New JerseyJersey ShorePolitics
Senator Paul Sarlo, Chair of the Senate Select Committee, Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz and other members of the Committee, issued the following joint statement after today’s hearing on utility rate increases:

“As we work to understand why energy costs have spiked, today’s hearing makes one thing clear: among the leading causes are PJM’s broken capacity auction system and its failure to bring new energy supplies online. Rather than taking responsibility, PJM continues to deflect blame while moving forward with yet another auction that could again send prices soaring. Its efforts to integrate new energy sources have fallen drastically short. The ongoing backlog in PJM’s interconnection queue is directly depriving New Jersey of the new energy it needs and denying residents the relief they deserve.

“At the same time, New Jersey’s clean energy future has been actively sabotaged. Trump-era policies and Republican obstruction have derailed transformative energy projects, including offshore wind. These cancellations erased the opportunity to deliver over 5,000 megawatts of clean power, enough to supply more than two million homes, and halted thousands of good-paying jobs tied to projects like the Wind Port and Paulsboro Marine Terminal. The economic ripple effects are massive. The Wind Port alone was expected to generate over 20,000 jobs and bring in $500 million annually in state revenue. With continued uncertainty, even next-generation projects like the new hydrogen hub are now in jeopardy.

“The numbers tell the story. PJM currently has around 1,600 energy projects stuck in its interconnection queue, 79 of them in New Jersey alone. A staggering 98 percent of these are clean energy resources. Collectively, they represent 250,000 megawatts of potential capacity. If even a fraction of these had been connected in a timely manner, supply would have more than doubled the volume that cleared the last capacity auction, helping to keep prices within historical norms. Estimates suggest that if just 30 percent of the queued projects had been operational, the last auction could have been 63 percent cheaper.

“This is not simply a temporary price spike. It is the direct result of systemic failure and deliberate neglect. Families are paying the price for years of missed opportunities and grid mismanagement. The one-two punch of PJM’s dysfunction and Republican obstruction has put New Jersey households in an untenable position.

“To build a reliable, affordable energy future, PJM must overhaul its markets, federal leaders must reverse harmful policy decisions, and Republican officials must stop standing in the way and start offering solutions. New Jersey deserves better and the time for action is now.”

The post Senate Select Committee’s Statement on Utility Hearing appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Point Pleasant man charged with attempted murder, strangulation and weapon offenses

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessJersey Shore

POINT PLEASANT — A Point Pleasant man has been indicted on charges of attempted murder, among other charges, for an incident that occurred in the borough  in August 2022.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 27, Juan Santiago-Rojas, 31, of Point Pleasant, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of attempted murder, strangulation, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon, all in connection with an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant on Aug. 22, 2022.

Officers from the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department responded to a residence for a report of an unconscious female on Aug. 22, 2022.

Responding officers found the unconscious female victim with serious injuries to her head and neck area. The victim was thereafter transported to Hackensack Meridian Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township. Due to the nature and extent of her injuries, the victim was transferred to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she was treated and eventually released.

An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Point Pleasant Borough Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, revealed that the victim had been assaulted by Santiago-Rojas on that date.

Santiago-Rojas was initially charged with aggravated assault on Aug. 23, 2022, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. A fugitive from justice, Santiago-Rojas’ name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database.

Sixteen months later, on Dec. 8, 2023, Santiago-Rojas was taken into custody by law enforcement authorities in Wilmington, North Carolina.

On Jan. 12, 2024, Santiago-Rojas was extradited to New Jersey, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since that date.

According to the press release, further investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit indicated that Santiago-Rojas assaulted the victim and strangled her to the point of unconsciousness on Aug. 22, 2022. As a consequence, Santiago-Rojas was additionally charged with attempted murder on Jan. 22, 2024. Santiago-Rojas was served with the new charge by way of complaint-warrant at the Ocean County Jail.

For more on this story, read the next edition of The Ocean Star—on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

Check out our other Point Pleasant Boro stories, updated daily. And remember to pick up a copy of The Ocean Star—on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

Subscribe today! If you’re not already an annual subscriber to The Ocean Star, get your subscription today! For just $38 per year, you will receive local mail delivery weekly, with pages and pages of local news and online access to our e-edition on Starnewsgroup.com.

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Kean Phones in ‘Townhall’ with No Live Questions

by Explore New JerseyFood & BeverageJersey ShoreLaw & OrderPolitics

Thomas H. Kean’s “telephone” town hall Wednesday night included no one asking questions on the phone.

Instead, an aide read submitted questions and the CD-7 congressman answered them. There was no give and take, and, of course, no surprises.

Kean, who has been in office since January, 2023, has been criticized for not holding “live” town halls, or for that matter, engaging with the public and press.

Some of the questions posed tonight were challenging – more challenging than ones I heard at a similar event a year or so ago. However, the question and answer session lasted a mere 30 minutes or so.

One of the more pressing topics of concern these days is the future of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

These are perennial concerns, but more so now.  After all, Elon Musk has called Social Security a “ponzi scheme.”

Kean pledged his support for all three programs.

He was asked if he backs allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices, which is now happening for some drugs. This was a key part of the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed in 2022 when Democrats controlled the House.

Kean sidestepped the question, but he did say that he opposes the power of middlemen – Pharmacy Benefit Managers – to help set prices.

On some questions, Kean’s answers deviated from the Trump agenda.

He said he was pro-choice and that he would oppose a national abortion ban. He also said that climate change is “real,” but that he opposes off-shore wind in New Jersey waters. He also said he supports the SNAP program or food stamps for qualified individuals.

Kean began the session talking about Donald Trump “restoring common sense” and a sharp drop in illegal border crossings.

On foreign policy, he reasserted his support for Israel and the safe return of hostages.

The congressman said nothing in his opening statement about Ukraine, but was asked about it.

Using his strongest language of the evening, Kean called the Russian invasion illegal and said Vladimir Putin is a “war criminal.” Those are not things the president is likely to say.

Kean said he’s confident the administration is working hard to bring about peace.

As for Musk and his work. Kean supported the elimination of waste and a need for efficiency. No shock there.

But, like an astute politician – regardless of party – he said he doesn’t want federal cuts threatening initiatives he wants to see in the district, like new sidewalks in Summit and helping police in Byram.

 

 

The post Kean Phones in ‘Townhall’ with No Live Questions appeared first on Insider NJ.

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Carmen R. de Pinies

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessJersey Shore

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carmen del Río de Pinies, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at the age of 93. She died peacefully at her home in Spring Lake.
Carmen was born on November 6, 1931 in New York City to Prof. Angel del Río and Prof. Amelia A. del Río. She grew up on the Upper West Side at Columbia University, attended the Brearley School and graduated from Barnard College in 1953. While at Barnard and for many years later she performed in the Spanish Department’s productions of classic plays from Garcia Lorca’s Bodas de Sangre to Calderon de la Barca’s La Vida es Sueño.
In 1955 she married the Spanish born ENT physician Dr. Felix de Pinies. After a year in Madrid, they returned to Manhattan. In 1962 they bought their house in Spring Lake and spent weekends year round and summers at the shore enjoying the days at North Beach and the nights at favorite spots like Jack Sullivan’s, Eggiman’s and the homes of many Spaniards who followed them to the Irish Riviera! Over the years she made many invaluable friends from the Moore family to her wonderful neighbors on Ludlow Avenue. In 1997, Carmen and Felix moved to Spring Lake full time.
She served on the Board of Directors of the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute for many years and enjoyed organizing their yearly Gala. She worked in her husband’s medical practice on Park Avenue bonding with his patients and all who came in contact with her. She had a passion for the theater and for trying new restaurants with her circle of close friends. She was a stunning beauty with a wonderful, positive personality conquering old and young because she herself was so young at heart. She was a wonderful cook and a warm and entertaining hostess and loved to have any excuse for a dinner party at her home. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, quick wit, fantastic sense of humor, and her salty language in both Spanish and English!
She is survived by her daughter Carmen (Fabian), son Carlos, her grandchildren Isabella and Nico, her nieces Meline Dickson and Pamela del Río as well as many close relatives in Spain, particularly Tania Sopena, Jaime de Pinies and Leticia Orti. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Michael, her husband Felix of 60 years and her nephew Pablo.
Committal will be private. O’Brien Funeral Home, Wall is entrusted with arrangements, http://www.obrienfuneralhome.com. A celebration of her life will be held in late summer. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her physician and friend, Dr. Peter Mencel, who saved her life 30 years ago and gave us all this extra time with her. A special thanks to her hospice nurses, Marie and Nancy and caregivers Maria and Ashley, whose compassionate care and support during her final weeks is so appreciated. Also, thanks to Dan Cannon who came to her rescue many times in her beloved old house. Carmen’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. May God bless her Soul and may she rest in peace.