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Elon Musk Press Conference Defiled the Country

by EntertainmentExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessLaw & OrderPolitics

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The Elon Musk-dominated Oval Office press conference this week fundamentally disrespected the Office of the Presidency.

While the world’s richest man spoke in generalities about his illegal efforts to remove whole sections of government, weakening American security, trampling civil liberties, and eliminating resources to aid the world’s poverty and disease-stricken nations, while empowering the world’s billionaire class, President Donald Trump sat in the background and said very little.

We can debate government bureaucracy and assess the merits of this or that program, but to entrust Musk with the rejection of USAid sans Congressional oversight represents more than merely a clear and present danger to America.

We reject Elon Musk in black and a baseball cap undertaking this role on behalf of a president who began his tenure by firing eight independent nonpartisan inspectors general. In a suit announced this week, those former IGs claim Trump broke the law “when he attempted to terminate them without justifying their removal or giving Congress 30-day notices.” If Trump were serious about reforming government for average people, he would not eliminate inspector generals and allow the invasive presence of a billionaire eccentric to oversee the overhaul of government.

Not only does Musk disrespect the average working guy out there who ultimately depends on some forms of government control to regulate the Musks of the world. But he disrespected the office of the presidency itself, degrading the Oval Office and clearly overshadowing the nation’s chief executive.

While the unelected Musk ponders the fate of the U.S. Department of Education and pulls the plug on aid to Africa, the President appoints himself, effective immediately, chairman of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board.  The former reality TV star seems strangely relegated to entertainment, even as a blandly acquiescent Congress ramrods his cabinet picks, among them vaccine-skeptic Robert Kennedy Jr. as – of all things – secretary of health.

The sight of Musk on his feet and Trump scrunched to one side does not bode well for our great country, which requires strong executive leadership to ensure the protection of real people by the federal government, real Americans, not investor class interlopers who can’t even pretend well to have our interest at heart without obviously and painfully defiling the White House, finally a symbol of our collective power in this republic.

 

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Morris County Chamber of Commerce Hosts 104th Annual Meeting – Morris County, NJ

by BusinessExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessNorth JerseyPoliticsShoppingTechnology & Tech

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Published on February 13, 2025

Morris County Director Selen Delivers State of the County Address

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Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen gave a “State of the County” address at the Morris County Chamber of Commerce’s 104th Annual Meeting, which drew about 500 attendees at the Hanover Marriot Hotel in Whippany today.

View Photos from the Chamber’s 104th Annual Meeting

Director Selen recapped some highlights that made Morris County strong and successful in 2024, including earning a Triple-A bond rating for the 49th consecutive year, making strategic investments in workforce, education and public safety, and continuing the county’s dedication to preserving the area’s history and parks.

“Another big reason for our success is our strong business community,” said Director Selen. “Morris County is home to more than 23,000 businesses, and just last year, nearly 600 new businesses opened here, adding to our already growing list of internationally recognized companies and 73 corporate headquarters.”

Selen pointed out that business success fuels job creation, tax revenue and key investments while allowing the county to keep the county tax rate flat.

“That’s why we invest in education and training, so that skilled talent can be found right here in Morris County. We’re expanding the County College of Morris (CCM) and Morris VoTech with a new Career Training Center that will offer programs in AI, robotics and supply chain management and we’re building an 80,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art Center for Health Professions with Atlantic Health to train future nurses, dental hygienists and radiology technicians,” said Director Selen.

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Meghan Hunscher, president and CEO of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce delivered a “State of the Chamber” address, thanking all the sponsors, local businesses and community leaders who make an impact in Morris County.

“I am proud of the community we have cultivated here at the Morris Chamber. As we enter our 104th year, it is imperative that we continue to innovate and introduce new initiatives that build on our success. I look forward to developing new ways to connect our members to valuable resources, opportunities for business growth and rewarding relationships with members across the region,” said Hunscher.

Hunscher also announced changes to the chamber’s Board of Directors for 2025-2026, with Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of County College of Morris, succeeding outgoing chair Deirdre Wheatley-Liss, Esq., of Porzio, Bromberg & Newman. Wheatley-Liss reflected on her two-year tenure and the chamber’s achievements before passing the role to Dr. Iacono, who emphasized his commitment to education, workforce development and economic growth in Morris County.

Highlights of the Morris County Chamber 104th Annual Meeting

The Chamber luncheon also celebrated the success of individuals and businesses from throughout the county.

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The keynote speaker, Sudeep Kesh, chief innovation officer at S&P Global Ratings, shared practical insights on mitigating risk while fostering creativity, strategies for navigating an increasingly connected economy, the future of human-AI collaboration and the critical “innovation imperative” for succeeding in a rapidly changing world.

Christine Cox-West, founding partner of The Fortis Agency, a financial services agency, was honored with the Saint Clare’s Health William P. Huber Award for Outstanding Community Leadership. The award recognizes a person who displayed outstanding leadership to benefit the community during the previous year.

In his remarks, Director Selen emphasized that Morris County’s success is about synergy.

“It’s about businesses investing here and schools educating our students. It’s about leaders who drive innovation and economic growth. It’s about the people who built our county and those who continue to build our communities by choosing to live and raise their families here,” said Director Selen, who also thanked past and current county officials for ensuring that the county is prepared for a bright future.

Selen said 2026 will offer tremendous opportunities to boost tourism and support local businesses with the 250th anniversary of American Independence and the FIFA World Cup. Currently, the county has more than 120 restored historic sites, including the first National Historic Park, and is anticipating thousands of visitors for these two major events.

“It’s our opportunity to showcase our county on the national stage,” he said.

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Photo 1: Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen delivers the State of the County at the Chamber’s 104th Annual Meeting.

Photo 2 (l-r): Attendees seated at the 104th Annual Meeting Chamber meeting on Feb. 13, 2025.

Photo 3: Keynote speaker, Sudeep Kesh, chief innovation officer at S&P Global Ratings.

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Nursing major Elyse Ryan delivers care in areas where it’s needed most

by Central JerseyExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessHigh School Sports

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When the rural villagers of Frankadua, Ghana, saw Elyse Ryan ’26 in her nursing scrubs, they would stop her in the street to ask her to assess their medical conditions. Some had wounds that needed treatment. Others needed walkers or wheelchairs.

 

Elyse Ryan provides wound care in Ghana
Nursing major Elyse Ryan provides wound care in the Ghanaian village of Frankadua.

It was a scene that Ryan, a nursing student minoring in public health, got used to in her 18-day trip there during winter break.

“I like to be able to provide what I can, and learn from others,” says Ryan, who, like the locals she served, lived in sparse conditions with no running water and only intermittent electricity.

As a volunteer with International Volunteers HQ, she worked in a medical clinic in Frankadua and also made home visits, traveling with a translator on the back of a moped.

 

Elyse Ryan and a translator provide mobile medical care in Ghana
Ryan, with help from a translator, provide mobile medical care.

 

“The sense of community there was an invaluable experience for me,” said Ryan, who plans to return someday.

Closer to home, Ryan is doing research with nursing professor Vicki Brzoza and the local non-profit Homefront NJ on breast cancer education and screening for those who are temporarily without housing.

The research found that communication about available health resources for the underserved population was lacking. Brzoza and Ryan will be presenting at an upcoming nursing research conference in Philadelphia in April and have submitted their work to a national nursing journal.

“Elyse is a committed student,” said Brzoza. “She wants to make a difference, and she does.”

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Women’s Advisory Council | Burlington County, NJ

by BusinessExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessSouth JerseyTechnology & Tech

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Burlington County Seeks Applications for the 2024 Outstanding Female Students of Burlington County Scholarships.

This year, the Burlington County Women’s Council is offering five (5) scholarships.

Each year, the Women’s Advisory Council and the Burlington County Board of Commissioners honor outstanding female students who have made a difference within the Burlington County community by awarding scholarships to help advance their academic careers.

logos-Alice Paul

The Burlington County Alice Paul Champion Scholarship is presented to an outstanding female graduating senior from Burlington County, who is continuing her education. The scholarship is $1,000.  To apply for this scholarship the recipient must:

 

  • Reside in Burlington County, NJ
  • Excel scholastically
  • Demonstrate leadership
  • Have been accepted into a post-high school academic program
  • Deadline to apply: Tuesday, April 1st at 4pm

Click here to apply

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Burlington County and Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce Future Entrepreneur Scholarship

Each year, the Women’s Advisory Council and the Burlington County Board of Commissioners honor outstanding female students who have made a difference within the Burlington County community by awarding scholarships to help advance their academic careers.

The Burlington County and Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce Future Entrepreneur Scholarship is presented to an outstanding female graduating senior from Burlington County who wants a career in business. The scholarship is $1,000.

To apply for this scholarship, the recipient must:

  • Reside in Burlington County, NJ
  • Excel scholastically with an interest in business
  • Demonstrate exceptional entrepreneurial spirit
  • Have been accepted into a post-high school academic program
  • Deadline to apply: Tuesday, April 1stat 4pm

Click here to apply

   

Logos-Remington

The Burlington County /Remington & Vernick Engineers STEM Innovation Scholarship is presented to an outstanding female graduating senior from Burlington County, who is continuing her education. The scholarship is $1,000.  To apply for this scholarship the recipient must:

 

  • Reside in Burlington County, NJ
  • Excel scholastically with extensive interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) studies
  • Demonstrate leadership
  • Have been accepted into a post-high school academic program
  • Deadline to apply: Tuesday, April 1st at 4pm

Click here to apply 

Logos-Virtua

The Burlington County and Virtua Health Light Maker Scholarship is presented to an outstanding female graduating senior from Burlington County, who is continuing her education. The scholarship is $1,000.  To apply for this scholarship the recipient must:

 

  • Reside in Burlington County, NJ
  • Excel scholastically with extensive interest in healthcare studies
  • Demonstrate leadership
  • Have been accepted into a post-high school academic program
  • Deadline to apply: Tuesday, April 1st at 4pm

Click here to apply 

1- NEW Burlington County Seal -August 2020

Burlington County Commissioners Leading the Way Scholarship

The Burlington County Leading the Way Scholarship is presented to an outstanding female graduating senior from Burlington County, who is continuing her education and has demonstrated leadership ability.  The scholarship is $1,000.  To apply for this scholarship the recipient must:

  • Reside in Burlington County, NJ
  • Excel scholastically with interest in Law, Government, Community Service, or related field
  • Demonstrate leadership
  • Have been accepted into a post-high school academic program
  • Deadline to apply: Tuesday, April 1stat 4pm

Click here to apply

The Outstanding Women of Burlington County:

Each year, the Women’s Advisory Council and the Burlington County Board of Commissioners honor women who have made a difference within the Burlington County community.

The County honors women who have made significant contributions to the community and have demonstrated their support of women. These women may have acted as mentors, role models, or advocates for other women.

A nominee must have lived or worked in Burlington County for at least one year to be eligible. Only individual women – not groups, clubs, or organizations – will be considered for this award.

This year, nominations will be accepted in the following categories:

Business Leadership
Community Service
Diversity/Inclusion
Education/ Mentorship
First Responder/Law Enforcement
Government
Healthcare
Law
Military/Veteran
Volunteerism

Nomination Criteria:

  • Only one category may be selected
  • Nominee must reside or work in Burlington County, NJ for at least one full year
  • Nominee must excel in her chosen field/category
  • Demonstrate leadership and champion women
  • All fields of this form must be completed

Platinum Sponsor – $5,000
Includes: 2 Full Tables with signage (20 tickets), Premium full-page ad, business logo signage at event, public recognition at dinner and social media advertising.

Gold Sponsor – $2,000
Includes: 10 tickets, full-page ad, business logo, public recognition at dinner and social media advertising.

Silver Sponsor – $1000
Includes: 5 tickets, full-page ad, business logo, public recognition at dinner and social media advertising.

Bronze Sponsor – $500
Includes: 2 tickets, half-page ad, business logo, public recognition at dinner and social media advertising.

Ad Rates – Ads are in Full Color
Full-Page Ad – $350   (7.5” wide x 10” high)
Half-Page Ad – $200   (7.5” wide x 4.75” high)
Quarter-Page Ad – $100   (3. 5” wide x 4.75” high)
Family/Friends Greeting – $25
Personal message on the Friends and Family page (25 words maximum)

 
The Burlington County Commissioners and the Burlington County Women’s Advisory Council are seeking nominations to spotlight incredible women on social media. The Spotlight WOW program highlights outstanding women who strive to make a difference in our community.

Nominees should have made significant contributions to the community and have demonstrated their support of women. These women may have acted as mentors, role models, or advocates for other women.

To be eligible, a nominee must have lived or worked in Burlington County for at least one year.

Click here for the form.

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Morris County Hosts Veterans Services Event to Expand Outreach – Morris County, NJ

by BusinessExplore New JerseyFilm & TVHealth & WellnessLaw & OrderNorth Jersey

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Published on February 11, 2025

Nearly 100 Attendees Learn About Resources and Support for Local Veterans

Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo. Nearly 100 attendees gathered at the Morris County Veterans Services Office (VSO) last week for an information session on the extensive support available to local veterans.

The event, hosted by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, featured representatives from federal, state and county offices, along with veteran service providers offering guidance on available resources. Many guests wore red in observance of R.E.D. (Remember Everyone Deployed) Shirt Friday, a tradition honoring deployed service members.

“We hosted an outreach session for veterans at the local VFW in my hometown of Montville last fall, which was well received by the vets who attended. At my suggestion, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously agreed to expand these outreach efforts,” said Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo. “We have strengthened our VSO with expanded staff and funding, and we will continue to grow these critical programs.”

Commissioners Mastrangelo and John Krickus welcomed attendees before introducing Christine Hellyer, director of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, program coordinator for the VSO, who led an informative presentation.

Missed the Event? View the Video Recording Available Online

View Photos from the Event

Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo and Commissioner John Krickus. “Morris County doesn’t recognize our veterans only on Memorial Day and Veterans Day — we honor them every day,” said Commissioner Krickus, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. “We continue to expand the Veterans Services Office to meet growing needs, including doubling its space in 2023, hiring a fourth Veterans Services Officer and establishing a federal Veteran Center Community Access Point in Morristown in 2024.”

He also noted that the county maintains an online archive of local veterans’ history, which preserves stories of service from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. Additionally, he highlighted County College of Morris’ (CCM) Veterans Resource Center and manufacturing training programs available at no cost for veterans and their families, supported by a $5 million U.S. Department of Defense grant.

Marie Fragomeni, outreach coordinator for the County Clerk’s Office, spoke about services available to veterans through County Clerk Ann Grossi’s office, including the “Operation Give Back” program, which offers discounts to veterans and Gold Star family members who present their Morris County ID Card at participating local businesses.

Also present to provide updates at the event were Nicholas Henry, field representative for U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr.; Willy Tolba, constituent services representative for U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill; Alex McConnell, legislative aide to State Sen. Anthony Bucco; Jon Hinker, senior vice commander of the New Jersey VFW; and Shenandoah Ellis-Ullmer, veterans and military services coordinator at CCM.

Service providers in attendance included the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Inc. (MHA) and Atlantic Behavioral Health’s True North Program for Veterans.U.S. Navy Veteran Tom Mazzaccaro.

Hellyer shared an update on the 2025 human services veterans grants, which fund critical services for Morris County veterans and their families. The grants support the MHA’s mental health, substance abuse, care management and educational programs; Interfaith Food Pantry’s distribution of food and household essentials to food-insecure families; and Legal Services of Northwest New Jersey’s legal assistance and counseling for veterans. This year, Community Hope will also receive funding for emergency housing services.

She also highlighted other essential county services, including Morris Area Paratransit System (MAPS), a curb-to-curb shared ride service for seniors, individuals with disabilities and veterans, as well as the Morris County Nutrition Project, which provides home-delivered meals to seniors.

Following presentations, an engaging Q&A session gave attendees the opportunity to ask questions and provide input. Attendees also had access to a resource table with informational materials, and light refreshments and snacks were offered.

For more information on veteran resources, visit morriscountynj.gov/veterans.

Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator of the Morris County Veterans Services Office.

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Photo 1: Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo.

Photo 2: (l-r) Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo and Commissioner John Krickus.

Photo 3: (center) U.S. Navy Veteran Tom Mazzaccaro.

Photo 4: Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator of the Morris County Veterans Services Office.

 

 

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Lila Keith

by Explore New JerseyHealth & Wellness

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Lila Keith passed away on November 23, 2024, in the comfort of her home in Virginia. Born Lila Faye Pearce in Pt. Pleasant, NJ, on May 7, 1925, to Thomas and Hannah Pearce, she was the youngest of eight siblings, all of whom predeceased her. Known affectionately as Nan to her family, her long and healthy life is attributed to many years spent walking the boardwalk with her friends, who also lived into their nineties. Nan’s knitting skills were exceptional, crafting items from socks to Barbie doll outfits, with her favorite being baby sweaters and booties for her grandchildren, now cherished by her great-grandchildren.

Nan is survived by five sons, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She was laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Frank, known as Pop to his family, in Greenwood Cemetery in Brielle, NJ. Nan was dearly loved and will be profoundly missed.

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Bank of America Donates $50,000 to Fulfill

by BusinessExplore New JerseyHealth & WellnessJersey Shore

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Triada Stampas, President & CEO of Fulfill (center) accepts a donation from Bank of America Charitable Foundation for $50,000.

Triada Stampas, President & CEO of Fulfill (center) accepts a donation from Bank of America Charitable Foundation for $50,000.

Philanthropy

On Feb 7, 2025

Bank of America recently presented Fulfill, the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, with a generous donation of $50,000 as part of Bank of America’s support of nonprofit organizations that provide access to healthcare, food access and nutrition, family stabilization and other poverty-related issues.

The gift will support food distribution to Fulfill’s over 300 pantry partners, as well as help the food bank continue to comprehensively fight hunger in the Jersey Shore region. Triada Stampas, president & CEO of Fulfill, accepted the check from Bank of America.

“Combatting food insecurity and supporting hunger-relief efforts is essential to helping our communities thrive,” said Alberto Garofalo, president, Bank of America New Jersey. “Fulfill plays a critical role in ensuring families across Monmouth and Ocean Counties have access to nutritious food and the resources they need to build a stronger future. Addressing hunger strengthens our communities, supports economic vitality and creates pathways for long-term success.”

In addition to the financial contribution, Bank of America New Jersey employees volunteered their time to assist with food distribution at one of Fulfill’s “Pop the Trunk” drive-through events, loading cars with fresh food, shelf-stable items and other essentials. The volunteer efforts and donation were part of Bank of America’s broader commitment to community engagement.

“This past year, we saw that the number of Monmouth and Ocean County residents facing hunger continued to climb, with more than 100,000 monthly visitors at local food pantries,” said Stampas. “The need is urgent, and the partnership between Bank of America and Fulfill reflects a shared commitment to fighting food insecurity and building stronger communities. This generous donation, coupled with Bank of America’s volunteer efforts, are making a difference in our region.”

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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N.J. receives over $22B in federal funds in FY2024; 56% increase from pre-pandemic levels

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessTrenton Thunder

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New Jersey secured an estimated $22.155 billion in federal revenue in FY2024. That’s according to a first-of-its-kind report released by the state’s Grants Management Office (GMO) which cited 609 state-administered programs received federal revenue on a state fiscal year basis.

Federal funds for FY2024 awarded to New Jersey were down slightly from the prior year due to the expiration of some COVID funding programs, however the state still secured an estimated $22.155 billion in federal revenue for the year – which is 56 percent higher than in FY2019, the last fiscal year before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Securing this federal funding is critical to boosting programs that make New Jersey a stronger, fairer, and safer place to live—and Treasury’s Grants Management Office has furthered that mission since it was established in 2022. My Administration will continue to pursue opportunities for federal funding for crucial programs that provide children with free meals, make health care affordable, and prevent violence in our communities,” Gov. Phil Murphy said.

“By actively seeking and securing valuable grant opportunities, we are ensuring critical State programs have the resources they need to support New Jerseyans and fulfill their missions,” State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio said. “I’d like to thank the Grants Management Office for their work in compiling this report, which gives the State a better understanding of federal funding levels and will guide our future revenue pursuits.”

Medicaid was the largest program supported by federal funds, accounting for $13.913 billion. Other programs which received federal funding included school breakfast and lunch programs, preschool support, violence prevention services, water and land conservation initiatives, and cancer prevention programs, among others.

Grants Management Office assists in reducing and removing barriers to federal grant funding through identifying grant opportunities, advocacy, and coordination among federal grant applicants across the state.

The GMO’s full report is available by clicking here. 



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New Jersey Devils Need More From Veteran Forward Erik Haula – The Hockey Writers – New Jersey Devils

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessHockeyNew Jersey Devils

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The New Jersey Devils suffered from a lackluster January, kicking off 2025 with a 5-5-3 record. There are a few different reasons for their struggles, but their biggest issue as of right now is injuries. First, they lost starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom, quickly followed by their captain Nico Hischier. However, they were also missing another important part of their roster: Erik Haula.

The veteran forward spent most of January on injured reserve, missing 12 games with an ankle sprain. Head coach Sheldon Keefe was initially hesitant to share a timeline for Haula’s return, marking him as a game-time decision earlier this week. But on Tuesday night, he made his long-awaited return to the Devils’ bench against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Haula’s recent performance has proven just how crucial he is for the Devils. As the team continues to recover from injuries, he needs to provide veteran leadership and play an important role.

Haula Must Improve Depth Scoring

In Haula’s absence, the Devils struggled with depth scoring. Justin Dowling mainly filled his role as third-line center, but he was unable to match Haula’s volume of shots on goal, recording just three shots on goal in January. Haula, on the other hand, managed three shots in his first game back. While Haula only has five goals and six assists throughout this season, his 47 Corsi For percentage is higher than that of Dowling and Curtis Lazar.

Erik Haula New Jersey Devils
Erik Haula, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)

Haula put in a strong performance on Tuesday night, making positive offensive contributions. He created six scoring opportunities, along with four high-danger chances. Centering Timo Meier and Dawson Mercer, he had 12:07 ice time, managing one rebound and one rush attempt. Despite finishing the game minus-one and receiving a penalty for elbowing, it is clear Haula is playing with renewed vigor.

So far, the Meier-Haula-Mercer line has done a good job of generating shots on goal. Against the Penguins, this combination had seven shots on goal, only one less than the Ondrej Palat-Hughes-Jesper Bratt line. And this trend continued on Thursday night against the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite suffering a 3-1 loss on Thursday, the Meier-Haula-Mercer line still managed to create three scoring chances, only one fewer than the Devils’ top line.

Haula’s Faceoff Contributions

For most of this season, Hischier led the NHL in faceoffs and the lack of his two-way skills has been harmful for the Devils. However, Haula has a 54.6 faceoff win percentage, and he can be a temporary substitute until Hischier returns to the lineup. 

In the last two games, his faceoff percentage has improved. Against the Penguins, Haula took 14 faceoffs and won only three. But his play in the faceoff dot took a step in the right direction against the Golden Knights when he won 61.54% of faceoffs compared to 21.43% on Tuesday night. 

Related: New Jersey Devils’ 3 Stars of January

Nonetheless, he has also been making an impact outside of the faceoff dot and deserves credit for his efforts on both sides of the ice. Since returning from injury, he has recorded three hits, blocked two shots, and drawn one penalty. The Devils still need more from the 33-year-old forward, but he has made positive strides leading up to the 4 Nations Face-Off break.

Should Haula Be Given Power Play Time?

Haula needs to accept additional responsibilities in the wake of so many injuries, shifting from a bottom-six role to one of the top lines. However, there is one more way he can contribute: on the power play. Considering that the Devils are three for nine on the power play in their last four games, something needs to change. Haula could be a short-term solution for the second power-play unit. 

This season, he has recorded 40:31 of ice time on the man advantage, less than half the amount he spent during the 2023-24 season. Haula has one goal and three assists on the power play so far this season, despite it not being his strong suit.

On the second unit, Mercer is still acting as a temporary center at times. If Haula is added to the power play, Mercer could return to his dominant position on the right wing. It would make sense for Keefe to shake up the power play before facing the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. He should have Haula center the second power-play unit with Meier and Mercer on his wings.

Haula’s Impact Moving Forward

It is clear the Devils are trying to get back to their winning ways and Haula’s presence can help them rediscover that mindset. He has been good at firing shots on goal, but is clearly still adjusting to being thrust into a top-six role.

Haula is supposed to represent Team Finland in the NHL’s Four Nations Face-Off, but it is unclear if he will opt out of the tournament to fully recover from his injury. In the meantime, he will continue to maintain an important role as the Devils work toward having a healthy roster.

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Government Employee Unions Sue Trump Administration for Shutting Down USAID

by Explore New JerseyHealth & WellnessLaw & OrderPolitics

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Last night, Public Citizen Litigation Group and Democracy Forward filed a lawsuit on behalf of the American Foreign Service Association and American Federation of Government Employees against Donald Trump, Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the State Department, and the Department of Treasury for shutting down USAID, causing a global humanitarian crisis.

As the complaint explains, by imposing stop work orders, freezing funding, putting staff on leave or terminating them entirely, naming Secretary Rubio as Acting Director, and other actions, the Trump Administration has cost thousands of Americans their jobs and threatened U.S. national security interests. And it has led to humanitarian catastrophe: USAID provides life-saving food, medicine, and support to hundreds of thousands of people across the world.

“Dissolving USAID is illegal and unconstitutional. The Administration’s actions will cost lives and threaten the livelihood–and in some cases the physical safety–of thousands of American workers who have dedicated their lives to public service,” said Public Citizen Litigation Group attorney Lauren Bateman. “Without USAID, U.S.-led medical clinics, soup kitchens, refugee assistance programs, and countless other projects cannot operate. Meanwhile, thousands of Americans who support and lead these important initiatives are out of work. This disruption of aid is unfathomably cruel, unnecessary, and against the law.”

“The Trump administration’s attack on USAID is part of a coordinated campaign to undermine the will of Congress and isolate America in the world,” said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. “This will make Americans at home and abroad less safe.”

“The men and women of USAID deserve a government that values and understands their contributions, not one that leaves them high and dry and unable to pursue their important work after a hostile takeover,” said Everett Kelley, AFGE National President. “We will stand up for our members and all USAID workers who deliver aid across the globe and contribute to a safer, healthier world for all Americans.”

“The dismantling of USAID including its Foreign Service members has thrown dedicated public servants—and their families—into chaos and uncertainty. These professionals have spent their careers advancing America’s interests abroad, only to find their livelihoods upended overnight,” said AFSA President Tom Yazdgerdi. “The consequences of this disruption go far beyond individual careers—it weakens U.S. leadership and undermines global stability worldwide. AFSA will continue to defend its members and pursue all options to protect this essential workforce.”

The full complaint is available here.

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