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Morris County Kicks Off 10th Year of Recreational Trail Grants Program – Morris County, NJ

Don Lichterman
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Morris County Kicks Off 10th Year of Recreational Trail Grants Program – Morris County, NJ

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Published on February 10, 2025

Feb. 19, 2025: Workshop / April 4, 2025: Deadline for Letters of Intent / June 6, 2025: Application Deadline

Kleitman Woods Park Trail in Morristown, funded with $157,979.20 in 2022 and completed in 2024. More than $1 million in grants for recreational trails is available to Morris County’s 39 municipalities through the 2025 Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program, which opened its tenth annual application process today.

An Application Workshop will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon to review the program and application process. The workshop will take place at the Morris County Park Commission Cultural Center at 300 Mendham Road in Morris Township and virtually via Webex. Please register to attend using the Registration Form.

“This program proved its value when the pandemic hit in 2020, with trail use surging 200% nationwide and quadrupling in Morris County. The trails are a refuge for anyone seeking fresh air, exercise and a mental escape, and are a key part of Morris County’s quality of life,” said Deputy Director Stephen H. Shaw, commissioner liaison to the Office of Planning & Preservation. “We are pleased to announce the opening of this year’s grant application process to expand this highly popular program.”

Since 2016, Morris County has awarded more than $6.5 million to build and enhance a growing network of local trails, after voters overwhelmingly approved dedicating a portion of the Morris County Preservation Trust Fund annually toward recreational trail development. Recreational facility use — especially trails — remains above pre-pandemic levels.

The 2025 program “Rules & Regulations” feature a revised layout and structure to improve clarity and application requirements.

Key rule changes for 2025 include:

  • Design & Permitting Grants now have a three-year performance period, with one possible six-month extension.

  • Construction Grants remain at a two-year performance period, with up to two six-month extensions.

  • The Program Schedule has been updated to cover all aspects of the program.

  • Interim reviews for Design & Permitting Grants now include a 100% completion review.

  • Updates to the reimbursement process, including new forms.

For complete program rules, visit the Morris County Trail Construction Grant Program Rules & Regulations.

“The Trail Construction Grant Program helps municipalities expand their trail systems through design and construction grants. Thus far, 56% of Morris County municipalities have been awarded 61 grants totaling $6.5 million, which will result in 31 miles of trails for residents to enjoy. Many first apply for a design grant to develop plans while identifying costs and potential issues before seeking construction funding. Overall, the program has been successful, with 77% of municipalities having participated,” said Betty Cass-Schmidt, chair of the Trail Construction Grant Advisory Committee.

The program application format and submission requirements have been updated, with separate applications required for each funding category. Applicants should carefully review all submission requirements.

Submission process

  1. Register and attend the workshop (required for applicants) on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025.

  2. Schedule and attend a Mandatory Pre-Application Meeting before Friday, March 21, 2025.

  3. Submit a Letter of Intent by 12 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025.

  4. Submit your project’s completed application by 12 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Municipalities that currently have an “Open” Design & Permitting Grant, and wish to apply for a 2025 Construction Grant, must complete the following steps to be eligible. 

  • Submit 90-100% bid documents for technical review and comment by 12 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025.

  • Submit a Letter of Intent by 12 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025.

  • Submit final electronic documents — including plan sets, bid specifications, all in-hand permits, and a construction cost estimate – to the Morris County Park Commission by 12 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025.

  • Obtain program approval to submit a Construction Grant application by Friday, May 9, 2025.

  • Submit a complete Construction Grant application by 12 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Grant awards are expected to be announced before the end of the year. Application materials and other resources are available on the Official Website of Morris County, N.J.

Bee Meadow Pond Trail in Hanover Township, completed in four phases through 2024, with a total of $662,991.50 in funding awarded between 2017 and 2020.

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Photo 1: Kleitman Woods Park Trail in Morristown, funded with $157,979.20 in 2022 and completed in 2024.

Photo 2: Bee Meadow Pond Trail in Hanover Township, completed in four phases through 2024, with a total of $662,991.50 in funding awarded between 2017 and 2020.

 

 

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Nico Daws Propels Devils to 5-0 Win Over Predators – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

Don Lichterman
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Nico Daws Propels Devils to 5-0 Win Over Predators – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

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On Sunday night, the New Jersey Devils faced the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Both teams were on the second half of a back-to-back following the 4 Nations Face-Off break, but the Devils came out on top in Music City. Nico Daws led the team to a 5-0 victory and stopped all 29 shots faced, earning his first career NHL shutout.

From the opening faceoff, the Devils came out swinging, and the momentum remained with New Jersey in the first 20 minutes. The Devils’ penalty kill went to work, as Johnathan Kovacevic took a hooking penalty just one minute into the first. The Predators failed to capitalize on both early power plays, while Jack Hughes nearly scored on a breakaway attempt.

Ondrej Palat gave the Devils a 1-0 lead, assisted by Luke Hughes and Dougie Hamilton. Daws remained strong in net, stopping all seven shots he faced during the opening period.

Both teams upped the intensity in the second, with a series of phenomenal saves from Daws and Justus Annunen. However, the Devils blew the game wide open by exploiting the Predators’ defensive weaknesses. Hamilton extended the Devils’ lead with a goal halfway through the second period. But the Devils weren’t done yet. Seamus Casey made it 3-0 with the help of both Hughes brothers, scoring his fourth goal of the season.

The third period was action-packed, and Stefan Noesen buried the puck for a power-play goal after Michael McCarron was called for a cross-check. The Devils continued to play with speed and skill, generating countless high-danger scoring opportunities. Tomas Tatar even got in on the action, making it 5-0 Devils halfway through the third. Fedor Svechkov almost put Nashville on the board, but the goal was overturned for offsides.

The Devils earned their first win after the break, and Daws was the hero of the night. According to MoneyPuck, Daws made 4.19 goals saved above expected (GSAx). As a result, the Devils advance to 32-21-6, while the Predators fall to 20-29-7.

The Predators will face the Florida Panthers on Tuesday, and the Devils will hit the road to play the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday night.

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Anger at the Monmouth County Democratic Convention

Don Lichterman
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Anger at the Monmouth County Democratic Convention

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WALL TOWNSHIP – Mikie Sherrill was angry, so angry that she discarded her planned speech at Saturday’s Monmouth County Democratic convention to make a larger point.

“We believe you don’t take an oath to MAGA, you take an oath to the Constitution,” she said.

Sherrill, a Navy veteran and CD-11 House member, was reacting to the Friday firing of Admiral Lisa Franchetti as Navy chief. She was one of a number of top military officials, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Charles Q. Brown, dismissed by the Trump Administration. There had been comments that the Administration saw Franchetti as a “DEI hire.”

Sherrill said she spent much time Friday night digesting and discussing the news with admirals and other Navy officials.

The convention was about endorsing a gubernatorial candidate. Sherrill said she planned to talk about housing, a proliferation of warehouse construction and flood relief, but the military firings prompted her to go in another direction.

“I am so damn pissed off,” she bluntly told the convention.

What’s happening in D.C. makes this year’s gubernatorial election even more important. Sherrill said it is vital for New Jersey to preserve the values it has.

Voting by county committee members will continue until 4 p.m., so the results will not be known for some time.

Ras Baraka, the mayor of Newark, said that if voters want change, he’s their man.

“Folks up and down the state are looking for leadership,” he said, adding that he wants to “re-imagine New Jersey.”

Sean Spiller, the president of the state teachers’ union, said his background as an immigrant and a teacher makes him the best candidate to relate to average people.

“Elect one of us,” was how he put it.

The Monmouth convention, like one in Mercer a few days ago, was also about who was not there.

Of the six candidates in the race, the aforementioned three were the only ones there – sort of.

Candidate Steve Fulop was in the parking lot handing out a letter condemning some of the conventions as being stacked in favor of one candidate. He did not take part in the selection process.

Eventually, Fulop came inside the meeting venue – a union hall on Route 138 – and watched from the cheap seats, or rather the back of the room.

Steve Sweeney was not there, nor was he mentioned.

But the sixth candidate, Josh Gottheimer, did get some attention. A Monmouth party official said Gottheimer had denounced the convention as a “charade.”  The official objected to that characterization, noting that voting is by secret ballot and that last year, Monmouth Democrats endorsed Andy Kim for Senate, as opposed to the establishment candidate, Tammy Murphy.

The Gottheimer campaign issued the following statement:

“Since I launched my campaign, I’ve traveled to every county across the state, talking to folks in diners about how Jersey is too damn expensive and how my ‘tax cut plan’ will help solve our affordability crisis. I’m launching the next phase of my ‘Jersey Diner Tour’ – focused on tax cuts and lower costs. There is no better way to understand the challenges our families are facing and to solve their problems, than to hear directly from them. As for upcoming conventions, my rule is simple: I’m not walking into any diners where I know I’m going to get whacked. – where the fix is in. I’m grateful to our Democratic committee members and I’ll continue to sit down with them and voters across our great state.”

 

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Ice Rescue Training Turns into Real-Life Emergency Response – Morris County, NJ

Don Lichterman
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Ice Rescue Training Turns into Real-Life Emergency Response – Morris County, NJ

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Published on February 20, 2025

First Responders Rescue Elderly Man from Icy Waters of Lake Hopatcong

First responders tending to the victim who fell through the ice on Lake Hopatcong. An ice rescue training exercise on Lake Hopatcong turned into an actual life-saving mission yesterday, when members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and multiple first responder agencies saved an 82-year-old man who had fallen through the ice near their emergency drill.

“It is work like this, with our other public safety partners, that makes it all worth it. Responding in a time of need and applying our training to help an individual who is in dire consequences, all with positive outcomes. Saving lives is the purpose of our mission and the reason why we train together and ensure seamless performance,” said Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon.

The incident unfolded while the Sheriff’s Office was conducting a joint training alongside the N.J. State Police, Mt. Arlington Police Department, Hopatcong Police Department and the N.J. Division of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Police at Lee’s County Park Marina in Mt. Arlington. An urgent report came in that a man had fallen through the lake ice near the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club on Bertrand Island.

Sgt. Edward Koster of the Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Sgt. Nicholas Vernotica of the Patrol Division, Cpl. Ivan Bajceski and Sheriff’s Officer Ryan Wood of the Emergency Services Unit (ESU) and the N.J. State Police Marine Bureau quickly mobilized to assist in the rescue.

Firs responders reacting to the emergency at Lake Hopatcong The victim, who had been operating an iceboat on the lake, was observed lying on the ice and his vessel was partially submerged in the broken ice. Three Mt. Arlington firefighters were already making their way across the unstable ice to reach him when Sgt. Koster and Cpl. Bajceski reached the scene with the Sheriff’s ESU truck and met the incident commander from the Mt. Arlington Fire Department.

Sgt. Vernotica and Sheriff’s Officer Wood arrived with the Sheriff’s Heavy Rescue Truck and deployed the MARSARS® Ice Rescue Sled. While tethered to the shoreline, Sgt. Koster, Cpl. Bajceski and N.J. State Police Trooper Thomas Gilroy carefully advanced across the ice and maneuvered the sled toward the victim, who remained conscious and alert. Mt. Arlington firefighters had secured a sling around him and rescuers placed him onto the sled before signaling the shoreline team to pull him to safety.

As the sled reached the edge of the ice shelf, Sgt. Vernotica, Sheriff’s Officer Wood and Mt. Arlington Police Officer Matthew Kaiteris waded into waist-deep water to carry the victim to solid ground, where he was immediately transferred to St. Clare’s EMS for medical evaluation.

Following the successful rescue, Troopers Gilroy and McClafferty of the N.J. State Police and two Mt. Arlington firefighters later returned to the ice and recovered the man’s iceboat.

The dramatic rescue underscores the dangers of venturing onto the ice and the critical role of specialized training in emergency response. Authorities urge the public to exercise extreme caution on frozen lakes and remain aware of changing ice conditions.

Photo 3: First responders assisting the victim after removing him from the icy waters of Lake Hopatcong.

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Photo 1: First responders tending to the victim who fell through the ice on Lake Hopatcong.

Photo 2: First responders reacting to the emergency at Lake Hopatcong.

Photo 3: First responders assisting the victim after removing him from the icy waters of Lake Hopatcong.

 

 

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NJ Olympian Jackie Dubrovich Teaching New Generation of Fencers in Essex County

Don Lichterman
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NJ Olympian Jackie Dubrovich Teaching New Generation of Fencers in Essex County

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Olympic gold medalist Jackie Dubrovich leans against a wall with her foil at new fencing facility in Orange.

Olympic gold medalist Jackie Dubrovich aims to raise the profile of fencing in the Garden State with Polaris Fencing Center, her new facility in Orange. Photo: Natalie Chitwood

Jackie Dubrovich made history last summer when she won a gold medal at the Paris Olympics as a member of the women’s foil fencing team. It was the first Olympic gold ever for a U.S. fencing team.

For Dubrovich, it was the culmination of a lifetime of dedication to the sport. A native of Riverdale, she started parrying when she was eight; by age 11, she was competing at Gutkovskiy Fencing Academy in Fair Lawn and soon medaling at the World Fencing Championships and Pan American Games. At Columbia University, she was a three-time first-team All-American and won three NCAA tournament and two team medals.

Though she’s now retired from competition, Dubrovich’s passion for fencing shows no sign of waning. In November, the 30-year-old Maplewood resident opened Polaris Fencing Center in Orange with her former coach and now husband, Brian Kaneshige.

The two met in Slovakia when they were teenagers competing in the Junior World Cup. Kaneshige, 31, grew up in Maplewood and started fencing at age eight at Durkan Fencing Center in South Hackensack. He was on three cadet and junior world-championship teams, the Olympic team, and was a four-time All-American at Harvard University. In 2020, he switched from competing to coaching the U.S. Olympic team, including his then girlfriend, Dubrovich. He’s now a fencing coach at NYU.

The couple, who married in November, had long dreamed of opening a fencing center together. As luck would have it, the ideal property came on the market while Dubrovich was competing and Kaneshige was coaching in Paris.

“It was all happening behind the scenes while I was at one of the biggest events of my life,” says Dubrovich. “We learned our first lesson as small-business owners; you can plan all you want, but unforeseen things will happen.”

The couple’s decades of competitive fencing gave them a blueprint for Polaris’s renovation.

“We thought, What were we missing at our respective clubs?” says Dubrovich. Polaris, in an industrial building formerly used by a pest-control company to dispatch trucks, now has shock-absorbing sprung floors, which are easier on athletes’ joints, and buried wiring to prevent entanglements. Wall targets allow for solo practicing.

Currently, Polaris offers introductory and beginner programs, as well as competitive programs for seasoned fencers. Both Dubrovich and Kaneshige are teaching.

They aim to foster a love of the sport rather than a win-at-all-costs mentality. “You’ll find a lot of burnout in American fencing,” Kaneshige says. “A lot of clubs put too much emphasis on competition. We want them to fence because they love it.”

The couple also aims to grow fencing in the area and are in early talks with the Orange public schools to help develop a middle school fencing program. Eventually, they hope to offer financial aid, since fencing’s high cost makes it prohibitive for the less privileged.

“As my competitive career ends, I’m thinking, What kind of legacy do I want to leave?” Dubrovich says. “Teaching and giving back is a beautiful way to stay involved in the sport.”

[RELATED: Is the 2026 World Cup Next for Chatham’s John Tolkin?]

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Fulfill Announces Pilot Program with Parker Family Health Center

Don Lichterman
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Fulfill Announces Pilot Program with Parker Family Health Center

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Fulfill, the foodbank for Monmouth and Ocean counties and the Red Bank-based Parker Family Health Center, which provides free health care for uninsured individuals, have expanded their partnership with the launch of the Vital Bites Program, a new pilot program to ensure fasting patients leave Parker Family Health Center with nutritious breakfast or snack items following blood work.

Since the program began at the end of November, 280 patients have left with a healthy snack. The need for the Vital Bites Program was apparent when Center clinicians noted not all patients are able to buy food to refuel after fasting for blood work, which can lead to adverse effects including dizziness and fainting. Center dieticians and clinicians devised a plan for nutritious grab-and-go food items supplied by Fulfill that are appropriate for all patients, including those managing hypertension and diabetes.

Research shows that uninsured individuals are nearly twice as likely to experience food insecurity, and that food insecurity is associated with adverse health outcomes. The Vital Bites Program and the expanding partnership between Fulfill and Parker Family Health Center address these links by directly working to support patients’ food needs at critical moments. In addition to the Vital Bites Program, Parker hosts Fulfill’s mobile pantry program for monthly food distribution.

“Our partnership with Fulfill exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing the whole health of our community,” said Suzy Dyer, Executive Director, Parker Family Health Center. “Fulfill’s commitment to wellness aligns perfectly with our mission and together, we’re making health care more accessible and compassionate.”

Parker Family Health Center, which for over 24 years has provided free health care to residents in Monmouth County who do not have health insurance or the means to pay for medical care, operates by a network of volunteers and health professionals who offer primary care, 14 specialties and multiple wrap-around services. In Monmouth County, over 31,000 residents are uninsured and more than 41,000 live in poverty.

Fulfill, the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has recognized the importance of making fresh and nutritious food options available to neighbors facing hunger and its network of nearly 300 food pantry partners. Last year, Fulfill distributed enough food for 14.3 million meals, and more than 60% of the food supplied was nutrient-dense protein, produce and dairy items.

“We know that the most nutritious foods are often the most perishable and expensive – putting them the most out of reach for our neighbors facing hunger. It is our intention that this pilot initiative with Parker Family Health Center will grow as we identify additional ways we can support their patients who are facing food insecurity. Fighting hunger means meeting people where they are and finding creative ways to ensure they have access to nutritious food that fits their needs,” said Triada Stampas, President & CEO of Fulfill. “I look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership with the Parker team.”

Visit https://fulfillnj.org/vitalbitespilotprogram/ for more information.



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Shore Point Motel fire leaves one injured – Star News Group

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Shore Point Motel fire leaves one injured – Star News Group

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POINT PLEASANT BEACH — One person sustained minor injuries in a fire that broke out at Point Beach’s Shore Point Motel early Sunday morning.

“This morning at (3 a.m.), our officers responded to a motel in the 200 block of Broadway for an active structure fire,” the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department announced in a press release.

“Prior to on-duty officers’ arrival, three off-duty Point Pleasant Beach officers were passing by and observed smoke and fire coming from the motel,” the police department said. “Recognizing the urgency, they immediately took action and began evacuating motel rooms, getting occupants out and moving them to safety. Upon the on-duty officers’ arrival, patrol units attempted to extinguish the fire, with little success.”

The motel was cleared of all occupants. Ocean Fire Company, Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company #2 and the Point Pleasant First Aid & Emergency Squad responded to the fire.

Half of the motel, located at 205 Broadway, has been deemed “uninhabitable,” while the other half remains unaffected, Mayor Doug Vitale told The Ocean Star Sunday afternoon.

“The First Aid Squad treated one victim for minor injuries and transported him to the hospital out of precaution,” police said.

Peter Sandomeno, co-owner of Shore Point, told The Ocean Star on Sunday afternoon that the fire originated in a rental unit. He said that hotel management was “told by another guest that the gentleman in the room where the fire originated had dropped something…and then, soon, the fire.”

“We only lost two rooms, and have smoke damage to a few others,” Sandomeno said.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by Point Pleasant Fire Department Station 75, Bay Head Fire Company #1, Brielle Fire Company, South Wall Fire Rescue and Laurelton Fire Company #1. An ongoing investigation is being handled by the office of Point Pleasant Beach Fire Official Brian Martin.

Fire Chief John P. Pasola did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

“I praise all of our first responders for their efforts to knock down the fire pretty quickly and minimize damage to the hotel and injuries,” Mayor Vitale said.

This is an excerpt of the print article. For more on this story, read The Ocean Star—on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

Check out our other Point Pleasant Beach 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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Students explore art, storytelling with artist-in-residence

Don Lichterman
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Students explore art, storytelling with artist-in-residence

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This semester, TCNJ’s School of the Arts and Communication is hosting Artist-in-Residence Sebastienne Mundheim, and her company White Box Theatre. The Philadelphia-based theatre company will perform “Kea and the Ark” next month in Black Box Theater.

Photo credit: Sammie Zhu ’25

Mundheim is a performance-maker, installation artist, writer, designer, puppetry coach, and workshop leader with more than 30 years of experience in arts education. She recently collaborated with students in Professor of Art Elizabeth Mackie’s Structure II and Installation, Performance & Media courses. During two sessions, Mundheim worked on various projects with them including puppets that implement visual installation, storytelling, dance, and theater.

In the first session, she did warm-up exercises with students and techniques to teach them about performance. It allowed students to create their own story through the puppets and structures they made. Mundheim said working with the students in the advanced art courses was energizing and fun.

“I loved the students’ willingness to experiment with materials and movement. I loved their open, reflective, and honest thoughts about the class experience,” she said. “I was sad that we only had two sessions together. I can’t wait to see what they do.”

Mackie said the collaboration allowed students to understand construction and explore ways in which they could implement movement into their sculptures and creations to send a message to an audience. It challenged students as they had to come up with ways to make their projects strong enough, fit onto their bodies, and how to hang them.

Pepper Rodriguez-Hernandez ’27 said that working alongside Mundheim gave them a newfound appreciation for art through puppetry.

Photo credit: Sammie Zhu ’25

“While I was creating my puppets, I was reminded of our lessons of teamwork and trust throughout it,” Rodriguez-Hernandez said. They explained that whenever there was a stumble, their classmates would problem solve together and bounce off each other’s ideas. “They helped me come to solutions I would have never imagined on my own.”

Clinical Professor of Music Jose Bevia and Adjunct professor of Music Technology and Composition Quinn Collins will working with painter, cellist, violinist, and songwriter, Daniel DeJesus on the musical aspect of the “Kea and the Ark” performance through a workshop.

Bevia, Collins, and students will explore music, theory, and incorporating improvisation and graphic notation.

“I hope that this approach will be composition to the experience and work with traditional music notation. The workshop will be eye-opening to our students,” Bevia said. Learning traditional music notation is important as it sets up a foundation that every musician needs to have.

Bevia said that DeJesus’ approach will be an enriching extension of what the students do in class. “I hope that they will see a different approach to music creation, complementary to what we normally do in our classes,” Bevia said. He explained that although blending music with theatre could be challenging, it is going to give students an opportunity to think outside the box.

Photo credit: Sammie Zhu ’25

“Sebastienne Mundheim’s White Box Theater has launched our Artist-in-Residency program with a splash: installing paper sculpture and puppetry in Gallery 111, sharing reels of performance work on digital screens, meeting with Visual Arts students to inspire and structure storytelling and making, meeting with Music and Music Tech students to explore improvisational methods for composition, and engaging several of our students in installation, videography and stage work, and soon culminating in March with a performance of ‘Kea and the Ark,” wrote Pamela Barnett, dean of the School of the Arts and Communication. “We are proud and excited to host White Box at TCNJ.”

Tickets are available for “Kea and the Ark” on Saturday, March 1, at 2 pm and Sunday, March 2 at 2 pm.Through electric cello, puppetry, movement, and storytelling, Kea and the Ark tells the story and life of Kea Tawana who built a three-story tall and 86-foot-long ark in Newark New Jersey using material from abandoned homes in the 1980s.

Mundheim’s paper sculptures and puppets are also featured in her Performance Environments exhibition in AIMM 111 side gallery until March 2.

– Emilia Calabrese ’27

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NJ American Water Invests $520M+ in System Upgrades in 2024

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NJ American Water Invests $520M+ in System Upgrades in 2024

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Water

Infrastructure

On Feb 21, 2025

New Jersey American Water has announced its 2024 end-of-year investment total for system improvements, totaling more than $520 million in water and wastewater system upgrades throughout its service areas.

“Keeping our water infrastructure strong and reliable isn’t a one-time job—it’s a proactive effort we focus on year after year,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water. “The capital investments we make across our systems provide more robust, efficient, and resilient infrastructure, which helps us continue to meet or surpass water quality standards and deliver better service for our customers.”

McDonough added that in addition to helping the company continue to provide safe, clean, reliable service for customers, this level of investment contributed to more than 7,800 jobs.

New Jersey American Water’s annual investments encompass upgrades and improvements made to the company’s water and wastewater infrastructure, including treatment plants, tanks, pump stations, pipes, fire hydrants and metering equipment.

System improvement highlights for 2024 include:

  • Water Mains: A $150 million investment to install, replace, or rehabilitate more than 55 miles of main. Pipe improvement projects are critical to help maintain water quality, pressure, fire protection and service reliability. This also includes $2.2 million investment in leak detection equipment.
  • Fire Hydrants: A $17 million investment to replace 536 fire hydrants and 1,328 valves.
  • Service Lines: A $99.6 million investment to replace 12,055 service lines.
  • Water Treatment and Production System Improvements: A $68.3 million investment for improvements at water treatment facilities, including:
    • Jumping Brook Water Treatment Plant
    • Canal Road Water Treatment Plant
    • Groundwater wells in various service areas
  • Wastewater Treatment & System Improvements: Over $18 million in improvements to wastewater treatment facilities, including:
    • Filter and pump upgrades at Long Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • Lift station improvements at Lakewood Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • Operational upgrades at Hawk Pointe Wastewater Treatment Plant
  • Tanks/Storage: A $4 million investment to rehabilitate two tanks and perform detailed inspections of another 37 tanks.

New Jersey American Water is continually investing in the local communities where it operates, ensuring that water infrastructure that is reaching the end of its useful life is replaced to improve service for residents. Proactive capital investments are a crucial part of maintaining service reliability, water quality and flows for fire protection.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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Devils & Canadiens Should Consider a Gallagher-for-Parent Trade – The Hockey Writers – Trade Deadline

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Devils & Canadiens Should Consider a Gallagher-for-Parent Trade – The Hockey Writers – Trade Deadline

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The New Jersey Devils have only a handful of prospects they can trade at the deadline, but one who stands out is Xavier Parent. The forward is having a great season for the Utica Comets, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Devils, and he’s one of the skaters teams can look at and see his upside.

Related: Devils Have 4 AHL Comets to Watch Ahead of 2025 Trade Deadline

The Montreal Canadiens meanwhile might be sellers at the trade deadline. Yes, they are only a few points out of a wild card spot, but considering the number of teams they’ll need to leapfrog in the Eastern Conference, they might look to further strengthen an already great rebuild. It’s why they can put Brendan Gallagher on the trade block and flip him for a prospect like Parent.

Why the Canadiens Would Want Parent

Parent is one of the smaller skaters in the AHL and would be dwarfed at the NHL level. At 5-foot-8 and weighing only 170 pounds, he relies solely on his speed and skill to make an impact. That’s what the Comets are seeing firsthand as he has 11 goals and 13 assists, including the game-winner against the Bridgeport Islanders on Feb. 22, while proving he can be a reliable depth scorer.

Xavier Parent New Jersey Devils
Xavier Parent, New Jersey Devils (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images)

The Canadiens have plenty of firepower and core players in their top six already. Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky are the players leading this team back to contention. The question is where the scoring depth is going to come from, especially with a lot of the bottom six forwards in their 30s and on the decline. Adding Parent would provide a young scoring presence to the bottom six and round out the Canadiens roster.

Why Gallagher to the Devils Makes Sense

The Devils are a great team and will be in the playoffs by the end of the season despite their latest struggles, which include a 4-2 loss to the Dallas Stars on Feb. 22. That said, they have glaring needs that will prevent them from making a deep playoff run. One of their big issues is the bottom six, specifically, they lack depth scoring. This offseason, they added physicality to the forward unit but now, they don’t have a lot of offense after the top two lines.

Gallagher is 32 years old but fills that need. He has 15 goals this season and has consistently added scoring to the later lines. He can slide into the Devils’ third line and take the offense, which has underwhelmed this season, up a notch. Better yet, Gallagher is not a rental, so the Devils can keep him on the roster for a Cup run this season and next season as well.

For Parent, the Homecoming Is a Bonus

Parent grew up in Laval, Quebec and unlike most AHL players, he was undrafted. Instead, he spent most of his years developing in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) before the Devils finally took a chance on him. After an impressive first season in the AHL, the Devils made him a key part of the Comets roster, and he’s taken the opportunity and proven he can play at the pro level. A trade to the Canadiens would allow him to play for his hometown team and one he grew up hoping to play for.

Where Both Teams Would Hesitate on the Deal

If the Canadiens are going to trade Gallagher, they might ask for more than just Parent. There’s no guarantee the 23-year-old will make it to the NHL and even if he does, he’ll most likely be a depth skater. He’s on an AHL contract but if the Canadiens acquire him, they’d have to sign him to an NHL deal, something that’s not a given considering his trajectory. It’s why they might ask for another prospect from the Devils’ system along with Parent.

The Devils meanwhile might want to look elsewhere if they want to upgrade the bottom six. Gallagher is a scorer, but if the Devils want to make a big move, they might look to make a bigger trade to get a skater who will play in the bottom six but has the capability of moving up to the top six if needed. It also doesn’t help that Gallagher has a high cap hit and the team would have to move some players around to fit him into the lineup.

On top of that, Parent is one of the prospects they might keep to play a bottom-six role considering his ability to create offense. A Gallagher for Parent trade doesn’t favor either side and isn’t a blockbuster trade. That’s why it’s one to watch and could happen at the trade deadline. If you think one team benefits from this deal, let us know in the comments section below!

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Levoy Theatre presents Sara Evans

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Levoy Theatre presents Sara Evans

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originally published: 02/23/2025

(MILLVILLE, NJ) — The Levoy Theatre presents Sara Evans on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 7:00pm. The Multi-platinum entertainer is at the top of her game. She’s among the most-played female artists at country radio in nearly the last two decades.

Her five No. 1 singles include “No Place That Far,” “Suds In The Bucket, “A Real Fine Place To Start,” “Born to Fly,” and “A Little Bit Stronger”. Several of those #1’s spent 2 weeks in the top spot and were certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. Overall, she’s had 15 songs chart in the top 20.

Sara continues to thrill audiences around the world playing over 70 shows each year. Sara’s “stunning, country voice” (Rolling Stone) has earned her the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female vocalist accolade as well as numerous American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Country Music Association, CMT and Grammy Awards nominations. In addition, the CMA awarded Video of the Year honors for her hit chart-topping single, “Born to Fly” from her double-platinum album of the same name. Evans’ discography also includes the multi-platinum selling studio albums Real Fine Place and Restless as well as the gold-certified projects Stronger and No Place That Far. Evans is also a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry.

This year Sara launched her podcast Diving In Deep and has had a wide array of guests featured on the show including Crystal Gayle, Bill Anderson, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Ernest, Carly Pearce, and many more.

Tickets range from $71-$99 and are available for purchase online.  The Levoy Theatre is located at 126-130 N. High Street in Millville, New Jersey.

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In addition to a prolific country music career, Sara has been honored for her philanthropic work and in 2018 was presented the NAB Education Foundation’s Service To America Leadership Award. A Red Cross ambassador, Sara received the national Crystal Cross award for her work with the disaster-relief organization and has helped raise funds for the CMA Foundation. A longtime support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Sara continues to support the hospital as a cause dear to her heart.

The Levoy Theatre Preservation Society is a not-for-profit organization committed to reviving and continued operation of Millville’s century old Levoy Theatre as a performing, screen arts and educational center serving Southern New Jersey and surrounding areas. Their mission is to meet and exceed the needs of an active and vibrant arts community through state-of-the-art technology, historic interpretation, culturally diverse programming and performing arts education for all ages and abilities. The mission of the Levoy is to serve as an economic, educational, cultural and entertainment catalyst for the people of Millville and greater South Jersey. The mission encourages people of all economic levels to celebrate the rich history of the building, attend a diverse mix of entertainment and educational programs and grow or enhance an appreciation of the performing arts, by creating opportunity for cultural enrichment. The mission includes maintenance of this world-class venue to enhance enjoyment of its use, contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the community and the region, and honor the rich history of the Levoy brings to the City of Millville.

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Ocean County Library Announces 2025 Prom Dress Giveaways

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Ocean County Library Announces 2025 Prom Dress Giveaways

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originally published: 02/23/2025

(TOMS RIVER, NJ) — Thanks to contributions by generous Ocean County Library patrons and donors, dazzling dresses and glittering gowns are about to adorn students throughout the county. OCL’s 2025 Prom Dress Giveaway is ready to begin.

If you’re a student in grades 8 through 12 in need of a dress for prom or a dance, stop by one of the following Library branches to see our collection of free, gently worn, freshly dry-cleaned evening wear:

* Toms River Branch – 101 Washington Street, (732) 349-6200, Monday, March 17 through Wednesday, March 19 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm

* Little Egg Harbor Branch – 290 Mathistown Road, (609) 294-1197, Tuesday, March 25 and Wednesday, March 26 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm

* Jackson Branch – 2 Jackson Drive, (732) 928-4400, Tuesday, April 1 and Wednesday, April 2 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm

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The Ocean County Library Prom Dress Giveaway enables students in grades 8 through 12 to attend their junior or senior proms, spring formals, or eighth grade dances, regardless of their financial circumstances.

All garments have been sorted by OCL staffers and teen volunteers and will be displayed according to size and color. All dresses are given free of charge. No registration is required. 

See the schedule at https://tinyurl.com/OclPromDress.For more information, visit the Library’s online Calendar of Events or call any of the three participating branches.

OCL turns 100 this year and you’re why they’re celebrating! Watch for details on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, Pinterest and https://theoceancountylibrary.org.

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Devils Have 4 AHL Comets to Watch Ahead of 2025 Trade Deadline – The Hockey Writers – Utica Comets

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Devils Have 4 AHL Comets to Watch Ahead of 2025 Trade Deadline – The Hockey Writers – Utica Comets

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It’s no secret that the New Jersey Devils will be buyers at the trade deadline. They have the third-best record in the Metropolitan Division and will be in a position to make a deep playoff run. The catch is that, while the Devils are having a great season, they still have glaring weaknesses and need to make some moves to round out their roster for the playoffs.

Related: Devils’ Ideal Post-Trade Deadline Roster

If the Devils are going to make a move, they’ll have to trade a prospect or two to do so. Whether it’s to add a depth player or make a splash, the asset every seller wants is either young NHL-ready talent or a prospect to help a rebuild. While the Utica Comets, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Devils, are the worst team in the North Division, they have a few players they can flip in a deal.

Xavier Parent

Xavier Parent is having a good season with the Comets and proving he has the tools to be a dynamic forward. He’s a smaller skater at 5-foot-8 and weighing only 170 pounds, but he makes up for it with skill and speed. He has 11 goals and 13 assists this season and is coming off a game where he scored a goal and an assist in a Feb. 22 4-2 win over the Bridgeport Islanders. He’s proven he can find the back of the net and create scoring chances, and the 23-year-old forward is poised to get a shot in the NHL someday.

Xavier Parent New Jersey Devils
Xavier Parent, New Jersey Devils (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images)

He’s a prospect the Devils can move to get a player on the roster at the deadline without pairing him with another prospect. He’s talented enough for an NHL team to take a chance on him. The only question is, which team is willing to roll the dice on a smaller middle-six forward like Parent?

Remember when the Devils traded Blake Coleman to the Tampa Bay Lightning? That move happened at the 2020 trade deadline, and it helped the Lightning win back-to-back Stanley Cup titles. One of the players who was part of the return was Nolan Foote. He’s been up and down from the NHL since joining the Devils but is putting together a great season with the Comets with 16 goals and 18 assists.

At 24, Foote isn’t a developing prospect, but he’s proven he can be a depth skater at the NHL level. Foote won’t be enough to land a player in a deal, but he can be a part of a package for the Devils to make an upgrade.

Topias Vilen

The Devils have a handful of young defensemen but no place to put them on the NHL roster, especially after they acquired Brenden Dillon and Johnathan Kovacevic in the 2024 offseason. Simon Nemec is the first prospect who comes to mind and Santeri Hatakka is another one who stands out, but Topias Vilen is the skater to watch as he could be on the move. Vilen is 22 and still developing, making him an expendable skater for a Devils team trying to win now.

Vilen is a good skating defenseman who moves the puck up the ice. He’s not a scorer, but he’s a great passer, which explains why he had 27 assists last season, his first in the AHL, and has 15 assists this season. A rebuilding team can allow him to develop on the defensive end of the ice for a season or two and then bring him up to the NHL, making him a prospect worth adding at the deadline.

Isaac Poulter

Goaltenders are always tough to evaluate and tougher to trade, especially a developing one like Isaac Poulter. He’s shown he can be a good goaltender, but not consistently. That said, with the Devils adding Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen while allowing Nico Daws to fill in as the third-string goaltender, Poulter is expendable and can be a part of any trade.

What the Devils Can Acquire With These Prospects

The question for the Devils is not who they will target as much as it’s what they will target. They’ll look to upgrade the forward unit, and that’s twofold. They should want to add scoring but also need physicality and defense in the lineup, which they lacked in their 2023 second-round series against the Carolina Hurricanes, a series they lost in five games.

If the Devils add a bottom-six skater, a deal involving one of their prospects is in play. However, if they are making a splash and adding someone to the top six, a handful of prospects plus a pick would be part of the return. The Devils are in a unique spot since their contention window is open, and it will be for a while, but if this is the season to make a push, they’ll do just that to set themselves up for a Cup run.

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The Improv Cafe’s Top 7 Vocal Jazz Artists Played on the Singing with Swing Radio Show, TuneIn Tonight and Every Sunday Night on The Improv Cafe!

Don Lichterman
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Sundays are for relaxation, and there’s no better way to ease into a cozy night than with the soothing sounds of Singing with Swing, the radio show that transports you to a world of live jazz, where legendary vocalists take the spotlight and wrap you in rich, melodic warmth. Airing every Sunday evening on The Improv Cafe, this program is designed to create the perfect ambiance for your night in, featuring some of the most iconic and inspiring vocal jazz artists.

The magic of Singing with Swing lies in its commitment to delivering live performances from vocalists who have left an indelible mark on the world of jazz. Here are just a few of the unforgettable legends you’ll hear on the show:

1. Billie Holiday
No discussion of vocal jazz would be complete without mentioning the incomparable Billie Holiday. With her distinct phrasing and emotionally charged voice, Holiday’s live recordings capture her artistry at its peak. Songs like “God Bless the Child” and “Strange Fruit” are not only jazz standards but powerful expressions of personal emotion and social commentary. On Singing with Swing, you’ll hear the deep connection she had with her audience, where every note told a story.

2. Frank Sinatra
The “Chairman of the Board” needs no introduction. Sinatra’s voice was nothing short of legendary, and his live performances bring out the full essence of his charismatic style. Whether crooning a romantic ballad or swinging through an upbeat tune, Frank Sinatra’s mastery over phrasing and emotion has made him a pillar of jazz vocal greatness. On the show, Sinatra’s timeless classics like “Fly Me to the Moon” and “My Way” will fill your Sunday evening with smooth, cool vibes.

3. Ella Fitzgerald
Known as the “First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald’s impeccable vocal range and ability to improvise on the spot made her one of jazz’s most celebrated artists. When Ella took the stage, it was pure magic—whether she was performing with orchestras or small combos. Her live renditions of “Summertime” or “Misty” will captivate you with their seamless beauty, making her an unforgettable feature on Singing with Swing.

4. Sarah Vaughan
Known for her rich, lush voice and incredible range, Sarah Vaughan was a force of nature in the jazz world. Her vocal acrobatics and ability to interpret a song were second to none. With songs like “My Man” and “Lullaby of Birdland,” Vaughan’s live performances took on a life of their own, showcasing her sophisticated technique and deep emotional resonance. Tune in for her stunning solos and commanding presence.

5. Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole’s velvet smooth voice made him a beloved figure in both jazz and pop music. His live performances were full of charm, warmth, and sincerity. From “Unforgettable” to “Nature Boy,” his work remains iconic. Cole’s ability to connect with his audience through his intimate, laid-back style is what makes him a perfect fit for a Sunday night listening experience on Singing with Swing.

6. Peggy Lee
With a sultry, smoky voice and impeccable delivery, Peggy Lee’s live performances exude sophistication and grace. Whether performing jazz standards like “Fever” or crooning a beautiful ballad like “Is That All There Is?”, Lee’s ability to tell a story through her music will sweep you away every time. On Singing with Swing, you can relax into the night with her timeless performances.

7. Johnny Mercer
While more commonly known for his lyric writing, Johnny Mercer’s vocal interpretations of his own work are a treasured part of the jazz world. His voice, filled with warmth and intimacy, brings an added layer of magic to his collaborations with other jazz greats. Mercer’s live performances of hits like “Moon River” and “Accentuate the Positive” are filled with heart and sincerity, making him a wonderful inclusion on the show.

With Singing with Swing, every Sunday night becomes an opportunity to unwind, as you’re taken on a journey through the golden age of jazz vocals. Each legendary artist brings their own unique sound and personality to the stage, creating an experience that is as nostalgic as it is refreshing.

So, whether you’re preparing for the week ahead or simply seeking a moment of peace, Singing with Swing on The Improv Cafe provides the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing Sunday evening. Tune in, settle back, and let these legends fill your home with the smoothest, most soulful jazz vocals you’ll ever hear.

The Improv Cafe’ is where every song played are classic & new Live versions of your favorite Jazz, Big band & Swing artist!

Stars Hold Off Devils 4-2 to Earn First Win After Break – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

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Stars Hold Off Devils 4-2 to Earn First Win After Break – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

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On Saturday evening, the New Jersey Devils and Dallas Stars returned to action in Newark, New Jersey, attempting to get off to a hot start following the 4 Nations break. In a pretty tight contest, the Stars came out with a 4-2 victory. Casey DeSmith was stellar, stopping 30 of 32 en route to his 10th win of the season. They improve to 36-18-2; the Devils fall to 31-21-6.

The Devils looked pretty flat right off the bat. A little less than four minutes in, Evgenii Dadonov scored to make it 1-0 Stars. Then Brenden Dillon took an unsportsmanlike penalty, leading to a second Stars goal on the ensuing power play. Thomas Harley wired it in to stretch the lead to two.

In the second, the Devils started to really turn it up, but DeSmith stayed strong. At the second horn, he had stopped all 21 shots – +2.27 goals saved above expected (GSAx – per MoneyPuck).

The third period was more of the same. The Devils continued to generate some very high danger chances but couldn’t finish, until Jack Hughes finally broke through to make it 2-1. But 36 seconds later, a defensive breakdown led to a Matt Duchene goal to restore Dallas’ two goal lead. Then, it got interesting again as 65 seconds after that, J. Hughes scored again to make it 3-2. But as the game was dying down, the Devils couldn’t get Jake Allen out of his net. They finally got him out with 54 seconds to go and got a power play with 44 to go, but couldn’t capitalize on the short 6-on-4. Wyatt Johnston added an empty netter with 8 seconds left to make it 4-2.

The Devils will return to action on Sunday evening in Nashville; the Stars will stay local as they face the New York Islanders, also tomorrow night.

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Sherrill Wins Monmouth County Dems’ Backing

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Sherrill Wins Monmouth County Dems’ Backing

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Government Affairs Forum Explores Infrastructure Investment – Morris County, NJ

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Government Affairs Forum Explores Infrastructure Investment – Morris County, NJ

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Published on February 21, 2025

Commissioner Stephen Shaw and Assemblyman Christian Barranco Addressed Symposium

Commissioner Shaw speaks at government affairs forum

Morris County’s infrastructure and transportation priorities were the focus of a panel discussion this week featuring county Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Assemblyman Christian Barranco at a Government Affairs Forum hosted by the Morris County Chamber of Commerce at Tilcon’s corporate office in Parsippany.

The event, part of the Morris County Chamber’s monthly Public Policy Series, examined infrastructure investment, long-term transportation planning and public safety improvements, highlighting how the county and state collaborate with municipalities and the federal government to advance these initiatives. Deputy Director Shaw, Morris County’s representative to the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), outlined the county’s infrastructure responsibilities and the NJTPA’s role in funding local projects. Asm. Barranco, a member of the state Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee, discussed state-level initiatives and shared his perspective on proposals put forth by the governor.

“The county oversees 287 miles of roads spanning 39 municipalities, 1,000 bridges and culverts, and three freight railroads, in addition to other infrastructure assets. Each year, we resurface about ten percent of our roadway network, replace critical bridges and culverts and improve intersections — all while facing rising costs and stagnant state funding. Our paving costs, for example, have nearly doubled since I began serving as a commissioner in 2019,” said Deputy Director Shaw.

The county’s 2025 Capital Spending Plan allocates $11 million for road resurfacing in 11 municipalities, bringing the total to more than 230 miles of roads resurfaced since 2016. An additional $8.58 million is designated for bridge and culvert replacements, including major spans in Montville, Mount Olive and Jefferson Township. Other planned improvements include intersection upgrades in East Hanover and Boonton, along with countywide guide rail enhancements, for which $2.56 million has been budgeted.

Morris County Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw speaks at Govt Affairs Forum

The NJTPA, the federally authorized Metropolitan Planning Organization for North Jersey serving 7 million people in 13 northern counties, plays a crucial role in supporting Morris County’s infrastructure projects. With an annual budget exceeding $3 billion, it funds planning, safety and transportation improvements through its Transportation Improvement Program.

The NJTPA has also contributed to expanding the Morris Canal Greenway, enhancing trail networks and funding the Pompton Valley Rail Trail, set to open this spring.

“The NJTPA is a key partner in securing federal funding for Morris County’s infrastructure. Through this partnership, we have advanced projects like the replacement of critical bridges in Rockaway, Morristown, Florham Park and Long Hill Township, as well as freight rail improvements to enhance safety in Dover and Roxbury,” said Deputy Director Shaw.

The discussion also highlighted the Local Safety Action Plan (LSAP), which positions Morris County to compete for more than $5 billion in federal funding for high-risk intersections and roadway safety improvements. Asm. Barranco, who supports the Target Zero Law approved last month to “eliminate” traffic fatalities, acknowledged the challenges in achieving that goal.

“While the Target Zero initiative sets an ambitious goal, the reality is that bad drivers and other factors will always pose risks. That’s why I strongly support programs like the LSAP, which take a practical, data-driven approach to making our roads safer,” Asm. Barranco said.

Morris County Officials at Government Affairs Forum

The LSAP is expected to be completed by June 2025, with a public meeting scheduled for April 2025 to gather community feedback.

Morris County is also collaborating with NJTPA on its Long-Range Transportation Plan, “Connecting Communities,” which anticipates significant regional growth by 2050. The plan prioritizes modernization, AI-driven traffic management and smart infrastructure solutions.

Public input is encouraged through an online survey at njtpa.org/connecting, with virtual outreach events set for March 3 and March 25.

The Chamber’s Government Affairs Forum was moderated by Chamber Committee Co-Chairs Sal Anderton and Rosalie Serapiglia and hosted in partnership with New Jersey Business and Industry Association Employer Legislative Committee Chair Alan Zakin. Meghan Hunscher, Morris County Chamber of Commerce President, welcomed all guests at the top of meeting. Attendees included Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who provided updates on efforts to address sinkholes on Route 80 in Wharton.

Following the discussion, attendees were invited to present questions to the panel participants.

For more information on Morris County’s transportation initiatives, visit morriscountynj.gov and njtpa.org.

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Photo 1: (l-r) Asm. Christian Barranco, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Chamber Committee Co-Chairs Sal Anderton and Rosalie Serapiglia.

Photo 2: (l-r) Asm. Christian Barranco, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Chamber Committee Co-Chairs Sal Anderton.

Photo 3: (l-r) Asm. Christian Barranco, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and State Sen. Anthony M. Bucco. (photo credit: Dominick Sabol, Morristown American Legion Post 59 Vice Commander.)

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Scala del Nonna Closes Montclair Location; More Dining News

Don Lichterman
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Scala del Nonna Closes Montclair Location; More Dining News

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Closings

Scala del Nonna, Montclair

After 11 years in business, Scala del Nonna—which had been one of NJM‘s favorite restaurants in Montclair—has closed. “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Scala del Nonna will be closing,” the owners wrote in a post. “This is not goodbye—just a change of scenery. Please visit our other locations for the same delicious food you’ve come to know and love.” The restaurant has three other locations—called Scalini Fedeli—in Chatham, Montville and New York City.

Openings

Interior of Nómada in Verona

Photo: Courtesy of Skopos Hospitality

Nómada, Verona

This new Mexican restaurant, which opened this week, is the latest addition from the Skopos Hospitality group. The cuisine, a fresh take on Mexican classics, “fuses the relaxed, natural coastal aesthetics of modern-day Tulum with the lavish eccentricities of Acapulco in the ’80s.” All of the wine comes from Mexico.

Fable & Flame, Madison

Craving a classic American meal? This recently opened eatery specializes in smash burgers and creamy milkshakes. There are also crispy chicken sandwiches and chesessteaks.

J. Alexander’s, Clifton

Known for its exceptional steaks and fresh seafood, J. Alexander’s is debuting its first restaurant in NJ this year. It will offer hand-cut steaks, handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Uncle Momo, Denville

This French/Lebanese/Middle Eastern restaurant is expanding from Montclair to Denville. Offerings include steak fries and gluten-free crepes. It’s open seven days a week.

Brick Lane, Montclair

Exterior of Brick Lane in Montclair

Photo: Jacqueline Mroz

Previously known as Brick Lane Curry House, this popular Indian restaurant closed last July—but recently announced that it is reopening. The owners have redesigned the interior, revamped the menu, and shortened the name to Brick Lane.

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Grandview Brokerage joins World Insurance Associates

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Grandview Brokerage joins World Insurance Associates

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World Insurance Associates LLC (“World”), a Top 50 Insurance Brokerage based in Iselin, announced today that it acquired the business of Grandview Brokerage LLC (“Grandview”) of Brooklyn, NY on November 1, 2024. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Grandview provides commercial and personal insurance with niches in the healthcare, real estate, and jewel industry.

“Grandview is committed to safeguarding our customers’ property, home and business,” says Michael Schwimmer, Chief Executive Officer, Grandview. “We provide the right balance of price and protection, security and sensibility, and coverage and clarity. We are known for our creative solutions and problem solvers. As part of World, we can now offer our customers additional products and services to provide a custom designed insurance experience.”

“I would like to extend a warm welcome to Grandview,” says Rich Eknoian, CEO and Co-Founder of World. “The Grandview team brings years of experience to World, and I know they will continue to be successful.”

Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla provided legal counsel and Alvarez & Marsal advised World on the transaction. Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP provided legal counsel and Merger & Acquisition Services advised Grandview on the transaction. No other advisors, diligence firms, or legal counsel were disclosed.



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Your heart didn’t stop beating, but this condition adds to your risk – Star News Group

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Your heart didn’t stop beating, but this condition adds to your risk – Star News Group

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While many think heart failure means the heart stops beating, it actually means the heart is unable to pump blood and oxygen effectively throughout the body.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 6.7 million adults in the United States have heart failure. This number is expected to increase to 8.5 million by 2030. The disease can begin suddenly after an injury, illness, or due to a medical condition that damages the heart. However, most often it develops over time and can be a very debilitating disease if not properly treated. 

Jesus Almendral, M.D., medical director, Advanced Heart Failure Center, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC), shares what heart failure looks like and how it can be treated. There are many symptoms of heart failure – here are some signs to be aware of:

Shortness of breath at rest or during an activity

Fatigue or inability to exert energy

Coughing or wheezing

Swelling and weight gain from fluid buildup in the ankle, lower leg or abdomen

Nausea or a loss of appetite

Difficulty sleeping while on your back

Swelling in the veins of the neck

Needing to urinate often

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor immediately. And do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 if you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms of heart attack that require immediate emergency care, including; difficulty breathing, chest pain and fainting, sudden dizziness or loss of consciousness. 

The good news is that heart failure doesn’t always get worse and can even be reversed. There are several prescription medicines that your doctor may prescribe to treat heart failure, but there are also several steps you can take now to help fight the disease, including:

  1. Quit Smoking

  2. Reduce sodium (salt) intake

  3. Increase physical activity (especially aerobic exercise)

  4. Find ways to manage your stress

  5. Lose weight

Throughout your treatment, make sure to keep your doctor informed of your progress and how you are feeling. Together you can develop a plan to ensure you have the best plan in place to fight heart disease.

JSUMC opened a new, state-of-the-art cardiovascular services suite in December, tripling patient capacity for emergency and outpatient cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology, and structural heart procedures. Heart screenings are an important part of knowing the risk of heart disease. To schedule a CT Calcium Scoring scan or AngioScreen testing, which provide early detection of heart disease, or for a free physician referral, call 844-HMH-WELL. For more information, visit  www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/heart-care/heart-screening-prevention-diagnostics.  

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School of Science faculty member Monisha Pulimood takes on new role at NSF

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School of Science faculty member Monisha Pulimood takes on new role at NSF

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Monisha Pulimood, professor of computer science at The College of New Jersey, went from applying for and receiving grants from the National Science Foundation to analyzing and reviewing them for potential funding.

Pulimood, who has been at the college since 2004, is now serving as a program director for the NSF.

“Over the years I have participated as a panelist to help recommend proposals for funding,” she said. “As I got more familiar with the process, one of the program directors asked me if I’d ever consider accepting a more formal role with the NSF.”

Monisha Pulimood stands in front of the NSF building in Washington D.C.
Monisha Pulimood at the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C.

At first, Pulimood was reluctant to pursue the opportunity as she was chairing TCNJ’s computer science department and executing several grants at the college. Also, her children were young and in school, which made a move to Washington, D.C., difficult.

But this past summer the stars aligned professionally and personally and Pulimood applied for and was accepted to the position of program director in the Division for Undergraduate Education in the Directorate for STEM Education.

In her role, she reviews grant applications from scientists, researchers, and faculty from across the country and recommends which should move forward and be considered for funding. She also manages awarded projects and engages in outreach activities to encourage more faculty, particularly from smaller institutions, to apply for funding.

“My focus is on undergraduate education, and I am primarily looking at applications that fall under three different programs in that area, focused on computer science: improving STEM education, scholarships in STEM, and community colleges,” she said.

Various factors determine if a proposal is likely to be recommended for funding.

“We have to look at budgets, collaboration potential, whether the proposal is unique and not something that has been done before, and whether it will advance knowledge in the field,” Pulimood said. “Many things are considered before a final decision is made on a proposal.”

Pulimood is enjoying her temporary role at the NSF and gaining valuable insight that will benefit her and her students when she returns to TCNJ.

“I do miss being in the classroom, but I am getting so many great and inspiring ideas that I will bring back with me,” she said. “There is so much opportunity for professional development and growth here. I will carry that with me when I am back at TCNJ.”

— Luke Sacks

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McKeon Appointed Port Authority Aviation Director

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McKeon Appointed Port Authority Aviation Director

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Sarah K. McKeon, forefront center, with Port Authority staff. Photo courtesy of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey 

Sarah K. McKeon, forefront center, with Port Authority staff. Photo courtesy of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey 

New Hire/Promotion

On Feb 21, 2025

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey today announced that Sarah K. McKeon will succeed Charles R. Everett Jr. as director of aviation for the Port Authority’s airports effective March 1. McKeon joined the Port Authority in 2004, rising from an engineering trainee to become general manager of the agency’s New Jersey airports before serving as the agency’s first deputy director of its aviation department.

The Port Authority’s aviation director is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure and efficient operation of one of the busiest airport systems in the world within one of the nation’s busiest and most complicated airspaces, serving about 150 million annual commercial passengers. It is comprised of John F. Kennedy International (JFK), Newark Liberty International (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA), New York Stewart International (SWF) and Teterboro (TEB) airports.

“We thank Charles Everett for his extraordinary leadership in steering our airports through a period of remarkable expansion and modernization,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “As we look to the future, Sarah McKeon’s rise through the ranks over 21 years at the Port Authority is evidence of her one-of-a-kind expertise, dedication, and leadership. Her deep knowledge and hands-on experience will be invaluable as she takes the helm during this transformation of our major airports.”

“With passenger volumes at all-time highs and once-in-a-generation redevelopment projects underway, the Port Authority’s airports are in a period of extraordinary change and world-class upgrades,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “Charles Everett has played a vital role in shaping this success, and we are grateful for his leadership. Looking ahead, Sarah McKeon is the ideal leader to continue to carry out our ambitious plans into the next chapter, bringing a wealth of experience from her 21 years with the Port Authority.”

McKeon’s Port Authority career began in 2004 as an engineering trainee, holding progressively higher level management positions in the aviation department. She most recently served as first deputy director after leading EWR and Teterboro as general manager of the agency’s New Jersey airports, where she oversaw the opening of Newark Liberty’s new Terminal A, the cornerstone of the airport’s ongoing redevelopment program. McKeon is a graduate of Stevens Institute of Technology, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. She is a registered professional engineer in the state of New Jersey and is also a certified member of the American Association of Airport Executives.

Everett departs the agency following a distinguished 40-year career in aviation and airport management. He joined the Port Authority in 2017, serving as the deputy aviation director and general manager of JFK before he was promoted to aviation director in 2022. Over his Port Authority career, he oversaw historic redevelopment work at the region’s airports, including the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport. His tenure as aviation director coincided with extraordinary passenger growth at the region’s airports. Previously, Everett worked in airport management in Allentown, Pa., and Syracuse, N.Y. He also worked for the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington, D.C., and is a retired officer of the U.S. Air Force Reserve.

The leadership change comes at a time of unparalleled transformation and growth at the region’s airports. The agency’s commercial airports recorded their busiest year ever for the second consecutive year in 2024, serving 145.9 million passengers. The agency’s $30 billion airport redevelopment initiatives are helping to drive construction and tourism dollars across New York and New Jersey, resulting in terminals that have set a new standard for passenger experience while garnering international recognition for their design.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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Warden’s House Gallery | Burlington County, NJ

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Warden’s House Gallery | Burlington County, NJ

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JULY 24– SEPTEMBESolimeo promoR 12: CAUSA SUI: THE ART OF JACQUELINE SOLIMEO

This exhibit, Causa sui (pronounced kau̯. sa ˈsʊ. i) is a Latin term relating to a philosophical hypothesis denoting that something is self-generating or self-creating. Artist Jaquie Solimeo offers her take on abstract painting and what makes her love it so much. 

As imperfect humans, she thinks that we can feel so aware of that imperfection that the process of creation and expression like art can be tainted. When Jaquie sees art that she carefully planned, re-visited, and toiled over, it seems ugly because what she really sees is this all-consuming battle against imperfection. Her experience with abstract art, however, is that it’s almost as if it creates itself. There’s no plan, no expectation, no anxiety…and in the end when she looks at it, she finally sees art and beauty. She sees nothing of herself and it’s like she had no part of it. It’s a special mental space to enter into when you can enjoy art as if you didn’t make it.

The mixed media abstract paintings in this Causa Sui collection are largely monochromatic and generally influenced by grunge. You can expect to see translucent layers, scrapes, markings, lines, drips, and bits of mica. Rarely are brushes or tools used during the painting process but rather air, motion, heat, and repelling mediums are used to create unique shapes and organic motion. 

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Projected Lineups for Stars vs Devils – 2/22/25 – The Hockey Writers – Dallas Stars

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Projected Lineups for Stars vs Devils – 2/22/25 – The Hockey Writers – Dallas Stars

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The Dallas Stars take on the New Jersey Devils tonight. Here are the projected/expected lineups sourced from NHL.com staff writers, independent correspondents, and others.

STARS (35-18-2) at DEVILS (31-20-6)

6 p.m. ET; Victory+, MSGSN

Stars projected lineup

Jason Robertson — Roope Hintz — Wyatt Johnston
Mason Marchment — Matt Duchene — Mikael Granlund
Jamie Benn — Mavrik Bourque — Evgenii Dadonov
Oskar Back — Colin Blackwell — Logan Stankoven

Thomas Harley — Esa Lindell
Lian Bichsel — Matt Dumba
Brendan Smith — Cody Ceci

Jake Oettinger
Casey DeSmith

Scratched: Kyle McDonald, Christian Kyrou

Injured: Ilya Lyubushkin (undisclosed), Miro Heiskanen (knee), Tyler Seguin (hip)

Status report

The Stars did not conduct a morning skate Saturday.

Latest for THW:

Devils projected lineup

Ondrej Palat — Jack Hughes — Jesper Bratt
Timo Meier — Nico Hischier — Stefan Noesen
Paul Cotter — Erik Haula — Dawson Mercer
Tomas Tatar — Curtis Lazar — Nathan Bastia

Brenden Dillon — Dougie Hamilton
Brett Pesce — Johnathan Kovacevic
Luke Hughes — Simon Nemec

Jake Allen
Nico Daws

Scratched: Kurtis MacDermid, Justin Dowling, Seamus Casey

Injured: Jacob Markstrom (MCL sprain), Santeri Hatakka (shoulder), Jonas Siegenthaler (lower body)

Status report

Hischier will play after missing the past six games with an oblique injury. … Jack Hughes will play after representing the United States at the 4 Nations Face-Off. … Markstrom, a goalie, and Siegenthaler, a defenseman, each was placed on injured reserve Tuesday.

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West Windsor Arts presents R8 Works Fundraising Art Show

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West Windsor Arts presents R8 Works Fundraising Art Show

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originally published: 02/22/2025

(PRINCETON JUNCTION, NJ) — West Windsor Arts presents the GR8 Works Fundraising Art Show, an exhibition and sale of original 8 x 8 inch artworks, which benefits the art center’s Artist in Residence programs. The show runs from March 4 to April 5, 2025.

“This is a very special show for us because it brings together talented local artists enthusiastically showing their support for the arts by donating 50 or 100 percent of the proceeds from their artwork sales to West Windsor Arts,” says Aylin Green, Executive Director, West Windsor Arts. Participating artists gain recognition for their work by being part of a popular show, and also contribute to an organization dedicated to elevating artistic expression within the community.

“The response has been tremendous,” adds Green, “We reached out to our community of artists to be a part of the GR8 Works Art Show by creating an original 8 x 8 inch artwork. The works of more than 100 artists will be on display and for sale. It’s a great opportunity for art lovers to pick up original work at a great price.”

The sale, which runs from March 4 through April 5, features artwork from across a variety of styles and mediums—including landscapes, abstracts and florals—each available for just $88. The event will officially kick off with an opening reception on Friday, March 7, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm, where attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists and explore the unique collection of works available for purchase. Sales will be conducted both online and in person starting March 4.

“Through this fundraiser, we also hope to continue growing the Artist in Residence program, now in its second year,” says Green. “The Artist in Residence program brings great energy and creativity to the West Windsor Arts community with open studio time, workshops, artist talks and more.”

Promote your shows at New Jersey Stage! Click here for info

Supporting the Artist in Residence Program – West Windsor Arts launched its Artist in Residence program in 2024 to create an inspiring space where artists can work, teach and engage with the community. Through this interactive program, the arts center can offer the community more enriching experiences.

This year’s Artist in Residence, Dr. Maria Lupo, is a nationally recognized artist and board-certified art therapist whose work is deeply influenced by myth and fairy tales. As both an artist and therapist, Maria uses creative expression to tell stories and help others unlock the healing benefits of art. She will also serve as the juror for the upcoming Member Show at West Windsor Arts with a theme of “your visual journey through art.” Anyone can become a member and submit work for consideration by February 25, 2025.

Maria also invites community members to stop by the art center during her studio hours to chat about art and learn more about her career as an art therapist. “From the first time I walked into this space, I felt really comfortable,” says Maria. “The vibe of this place is beautiful—so artsy and soothing—and the roster of classes is amazing.”

For more information about the GR8 Works Fundraising Art Show, click here.

The West Windsor Arts Council offers art and cultural events, workshops, and classes for all ages and in all disciplines at the West Windsor Arts Center and in the community. West Windsor Arts Council is located at 952 Alexander Road in Princeton Junction, New Jersey.

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The New Jersey Devils return to action following the 4 Nations Face-Off, where they will host the Dallas Stars in an exciting matchup tonight.

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The New Jersey Devils return to action following the 4 Nations Face-Off, where they will host the Dallas Stars in an exciting matchup tonight.

The game is set to drop the puck at 6 p.m. ET at the Prudential Center.

After a brief break, the Devils are looking to maintain their momentum as they face the high-flying Dallas Stars, who are currently sitting comfortably near the top of the Western Conference standings with a 35-18-2 record. Meanwhile, New Jersey, with a solid record of 31-20-6, is eager to bounce back from their time away and continue their push for playoff positioning in the competitive Metropolitan Division.

The Devils are expected to rely on their fast-paced, aggressive style of play, led by star players like Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, to challenge the Stars’ stingy defense and high-powered offense. On the other side, Dallas brings an impressive roster headlined by Jason Robertson, Miro Heiskanen, and goaltender Jake Oettinger, making them a formidable opponent.

Fans can catch the action live on MSGSN or tune in on the Devils Hockey Network for radio coverage.

For those attending, tonight’s game is presented by Integrate Comfort Systems, adding extra excitement to what is sure to be a thrilling evening of hockey.

Whether you’re watching from home or live at the arena, this game promises to deliver plenty of excitement, as the Devils aim to come out strong after the break and face off against one of the NHL’s top teams.

WATCH & LISTEN

  • TV: MSGSN
  • Radio: Devils Hockey Network

Puck drop: 6 p.m. ET

3 New Jersey Devils Who Must Step Up After the Break – The Hockey Writers – New Jersey Devils

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3 New Jersey Devils Who Must Step Up After the Break – The Hockey Writers – New Jersey Devils

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Now that the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off is over, the New Jersey Devils will look to get back on track after going 5-5-0 in their last 10 games. They return to work today (Feb. 22), hoping to cement their playoff position as they face the Dallas Stars.

There are a few difficulties the Devils faced prior to the break, including injuries, inconsistency, and a lack of movement prior to the trade deadline. Nonetheless, there are a few Devils who must make a stronger effort. Let’s take a look at three players who need to step up for the remainder of the season.

Curtis Lazar

Curtis Lazar has had a tough season, especially after being sidelined for months following knee surgery. However, after returning to the Devils’ bench, he went 11 games without scoring a point. Lazar managed two points throughout January but has just one shot on goal in his last six games.

The Devils need Lazar to snap out of his recent slump to correct their bottom-six scoring problem. With just four points in 32 games, Lazar must start contributing more. This season, he has created 17 scoring chances for the Devils, as compared to 77 during the 2023-24 season.

Despite having a career-high 25 points last season, Lazar has just one goal and three assists this season. His puck possession is also not ideal, and he allows more scoring chances against the Devils than he generates. This is demonstrated by his minus-6.8 on-ice expected goal differential, as well as his 36 Fenwick percentage.

Even though Lazar is a fourth-liner, he needs to step up, especially if the Devils want to succeed in the postseason. It appears that Lazar will remain on a line with Tomas Tatar and Nathan Bastian, but this combination must start generating more offensive chances.

Tomas Tatar

Tatar needs to embrace his role as a veteran leader. He has managed just one assist against the Montreal Canadiens this month, and has only four points since New Year’s. It’s no secret that his point production has decreased since last season. Right now, Tatar is on pace for 21 points. This would be his lowest total since his 2012-13 sophomore season on the Detroit Red Wings.

Tatar rotates between the Devils’ third and fourth lines, averaging 0.9 shots on goal and 0.25 points per game. Tatar also hasn’t been excelling defensively. He has 28 giveaways this season, 11 of which were in the defensive zone.

Tomas Tatar New Jersey Devils
Tomas Tatar, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)

Tatar records an average of 10:39 ice time per game, part of which he spends on the Devils’ second power-play unit. Tatar has just three points on the man advantage this season, which certainly doesn’t help the Devils’ recurring problem with secondary scoring.

Originally, the Devils attempted to recapture the magic of the 2022-23 season, where Tatar was a 20-goal scorer on a line with Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer. However, Tatar must find a way to excel in his new bottom-six role before it’s too late. Tatar’s one-year contract with the Devils will expire at the end of the season, and the 34-year-old will become an unrestricted free agent.

Dawson Mercer

The final player that needs to contribute more is Mercer. Despite recording at least one shot per game for the last month, Mercer has just six points in his last 15 games. He took on additional responsibility in the wake of Hischier’s injury, serving as a second-line center leading up to the break. In the Devils’ last three games, he returned to his dominant right-wing position for Timo Meier and Erik Haula.

Currently, Mercer ranks below the 50th percentile in both top shot speed and offensive zone time. He is on pace to score 36 points this season, which is a major drop-off from the 56-point career high he set two seasons ago.

Related: 3 Main Struggles the Devils Must Address After the Break

Despite his recent struggles, Mercer is still a valuable asset. This marks his fourth straight season skating in every single game. It’s clear that the Devils’ franchise intends to keep him around, especially since he signed a three-year, $12 million extension last September.

He could also play an important role if the Devils advance to the postseason. During their 2022-23 playoff run, Mercer scored three goals, including one on the power play and a shorthanded goal. With just 25 games remaining in the regular season, Mercer must improve his offensive play.

Devils’ Efforts Moving Forward

The Devils remain in the third playoff slot in the Metropolitan Division, eight points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets. They must play with consistency, instead of repeating last season’s heartache. According to MoneyPuck, the Devils have an 89.1% chance of advancing to the postseason, but there is still plenty of work to be done.

It all starts with their next game tonight, where the Devils will face the Stars at the Prudential Center.

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2025 Threats in Domestic Extremism and Cybersecurity Revealed by NJOHSP

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2025 Threats in Domestic Extremism and Cybersecurity Revealed by NJOHSP

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homeland security

General Business

On Feb 21, 2025

The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP) has released its 2025 Threat Assessment, providing an overview of the threat landscape in New Jersey for the upcoming year, highlighting emerging trends in domestic extremism and cybersecurity.

The annual assessment, in its 17th year, serves as a critical resource for public- and private-sector partners, aiding them in identifying and mitigating both physical and cyber risks as potential threats continue to evolve.

“In an era where threats are constantly shifting both locally and globally, we must remain vigilant and adaptable,” stated NJOHSP Director Laurie R. Doran. “At NJOHSP, our proactive and dynamic strategy focuses on identifying and mitigating threats before they arise. While we cannot prevent every threat, we remain committed in our efforts to reduce risks and improve security at all levels. The key to our success is through collaboration with our partners and the community; by educating and encouraging the reporting of suspicious activity, we enhance our collective resilience.”

2025 Threat Assessment Key Findings

  • Extremist Threats: Homegrown violent extremists (HVEs) and white racially motivated extremists (WRMEs) continue to rank as a high threat to New Jersey. Despite increasing global attention on foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) such as HAMAS and Hizballah, ISIS remains the primary influence on HVEs in the U.S. HVEs are individuals inspired—as opposed to directed—by FTOs and radicalized in the countries in which they are born, raised, or reside. FTOs—such as al-Qa’ida and its affiliates, ISIS, HAMAS, and Hizballah—are considered low threats to New Jersey due to their inability to successfully direct or conduct an attack on U.S. soil. WRMEs have focused on making threats and planning attacks against perceived enemies. Extremists are expected to increasingly use emerging technology such as generative artificial intelligence to enhance recruitment and radicalization efforts through mass-produced propaganda, deepfakes, and real-time interactions.
  • Cyber Threats: The New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell anticipates a rise in the volume and impact of cyberattacks against New Jersey public and private institutions, critical infrastructure assets, and residents. These attacks will be operationally debilitating and costly and will adversely impact public health, the welfare and safety of New Jersey residents, the economy and public interests of the State, and national security.
  • Organized Crime and Transnational Threats: The New Jersey Regional Operations and Intelligence Center has identified threats from transnational criminal organizations such as Tren de Aragua and South American Theft Groups, which are attracted to New Jersey for criminal activities due to its location near major urban centers. NJOHSP’s counterintelligence efforts have revealed that foreign actors are engaging in transnational repression, unlawfully targeting political opponents, dissidents, journalists, and others in the U.S. to silence and control them.

In conjunction with the assessment’s release, NJOHSP continues to emphasize the importance of the “See Something, Say Something” campaign. Anyone who observes threat-related suspicious activity with a nexus to terrorism, targeted violence, or other related activity should immediately report it to local law enforcement or to NJOHSP’s Counter-Threat Watch Unit by calling 866-4-SAFE-NJ or emailing [email protected].

For more information and to view the full 2025 Threat Assessment, visit https://www.njohsp.gov/threat-landscape/threat-assessment.

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Exciting Updates to NJ’s State Plan—Don’t Miss Your Chance to Speak Up!

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Exciting Updates to NJ’s State Plan—Don’t Miss Your Chance to Speak Up!

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February 18th, 2025 by Tim Evans

New Jersey Future (NJF) has been a key advocate for the State Plan since our founding in 1987, championing smart growth policies to improve communities and safeguard natural resources. NJF was a member of the consultant team that assisted the Office of Planning Advocacy with the update to the State Plan. I contributed analysis on multiple subject matter areas addressed in the Plan, including parts of the Research Briefs section, Population and Employment Projections section, and the Lasting changes in the post-COVID world section.

  • The “Research Briefs” section consists of four subject-matter reports:
    • Transit-Oriented Development’s Renaissance in New Jersey 
    • Young Adults and Walkable Urbanism 
    • Redevelopment Is the New Normal
    • Planning for the Challenges of an Aging New Jersey
  • The “Population and Employment Projections” section describes how we evaluated population and employment projections, the issues we examined, and what methodology we decided to adopt. The projections are discussed in the State Planning Commission (SPC) meeting minutes from the 11-6-24 meeting, where the SPC officially adopted the population and employment projections as we recommended.
  • The final section of the Population and Employment Projections Appendix, labeled “Lasting changes in the post-COVID world,” highlights some questions that arose during the State Plan update process about changes that were brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to watch for which of these changes have staying power and which might revert to their pre-pandemic state since they will have implications for what future growth and development in New Jersey looks like.

NJF remains committed to helping advance the State Plan and ensuring its success across the Garden State, but we can’t do it alone. You can help make the State Plan update a success by providing feedback on the draft plan or joining a public meeting!

Attend one of a series of upcoming public meetings, one in each of New Jersey’s 21 counties. The Salem County meeting happens on February 19, at 5 p.m. and the NJ Highlands Council and Somerset County meetings are February 20. Find more information on these and your county meeting here.

Email   (stateplandotcommentsatsosdotnjdotgov)   to submit your comments. 

Public comments can be submitted at any time during the cross-acceptance process which culminates with the State Planning Commission meeting (anticipated December 2025) at which the vote will take place to adopt the final version of the Plan. 

To ensure adequate time for comments to be considered, the Office of Planning Advocacy recommends submitting by April 16, while the county public information meetings are still taking place.

 

Timeline for Cross-Acceptance Process:

  • December 6, 2024: Cross Acceptance commences. Draft Preliminary State Development and Redevelopment Plan released for public comment. 
  • February 12 to April 16, 2025:  Public Information Meetings, one per county. Check the Update to State Development and Redevelopment Plan page in the item about the 2025 County Public Meeting schedule for the latest.
  • Spring/Summer 2025:
    • Cross Acceptance Reports 
    • Statements of Agreements and Disagreements 
    • Negotiation Phase 
    • State Agency Reports and Responses 
    • Complete Infrastructure Needs Assessment, Phase II and Impact Assessment
  • Summer/Fall 2025:
    • Incorporate results of Cross-Acceptance into the Final Draft State Development and Redevelopment Plan
    • Hold six (6) Public Hearings (5 virtual and 1 in person)
    • Release the Final Draft State Development and Redevelopment Plan
  • Winter 2025: State Planning Commission adopts final State Development and Redevelopment Plan

 

Your voice shapes New Jersey’s future. Share your input by submitting a comment or joining a public meeting.

Posted in Development and Redevelopment, New Jersey Future Blog, Planning and Governance, State Planning

Tags: government, Land use, land use planning, resilience, state plan, State Planning



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Former Corrections Officer Sentenced to Three Years in State Prison for Aggravated Assault

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Former Corrections Officer Sentenced to Three Years in State Prison for Aggravated Assault

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Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of Public Integrity & Accountability (OPIA) today announced that a former New Jersey Department of Corrections officer was sentenced to a three-year term in state prison after using excessive force and assaulting a resident of the Adult Diagnostic and Treatment Center (ADTC)’s Special Treatment Unit (STU) in Woodbridge.

Giuseppe Mandara, 55, of Brick, New Jersey, a 15-year veteran of the DOC at the time of the incident, was sentenced on February 21, 2025, by New Jersey Superior Court Judge Thomas K. Isenhour, presiding at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth. The defendant was ordered to surrender in March to begin serving his sentence.

Mandara pleaded guilty during a hearing on December 3, 2024, to aggravated assault (3rd degree). Following his guilty plea, the court entered an order, consistent with the terms of a plea agreement reached with OPIA, directing that Mandara forfeit his public employment and be forever disqualified from any future public office or employment.

“This needless, unprofessional attack was inconsistent with the years of experience and training that this officer had. In a moment of rage, he lost sight of his responsibilities and his position and set out to simply inflict excessive physical harm,” said Attorney General Platkin. “This type of conduct undermines the good work done every day by other law enforcement officers to uphold the law and ensure public safety across New Jersey. My office is committed to ensuring that people who are in custody are not subjected to abuse, violence, or violations of their rights by those representing the State.”

“Rather than following his training and de-escalating this situation, the defendant enflamed a verbal dispute into a physical confrontation,” said Drew Skinner, Executive Director of OPIA. “He subsequently concocted a false narrative claiming that his actions were self-defense. Unnecessary and excessive uses of force against those in custody will not be taken lightly, and the defendant will now be held to account.”

Based on documents filed and evidence presented to the court in the case and Mandara’s plea allocution, Mandara assaulted the victim on August 23, 2019, inside the sally port area of the West Housing Unit in the STU.

After a verbal disagreement at Mandara’s desk, the victim was walking away to his assigned work location when Mandara continued the dispute, taking off his duty belt and following the victim. That utility belt included sensitive equipment including the keys to the facility and a radio. In arguing for the sentence, the State pointed out that the defendant’s anger had reached the level that “he simply did not care if he had left unoccupied for any resident to retrieve these critical pieces of security equipment.”

According to the investigation, Mandara cursed and threatened the victim while he followed him instead of following his professional training, which required him to deescalate situations. Another corrections officer attempted to block Mandara from proceeding as he stormed after the victim. The defendant engaged in a physical assault, and Mandara and the victim ended up on the ground, where the physical altercation continued. Mandara repeatedly punched the victim while he was on the ground. As part of his plea, Mandara acknowledged his actions were done with the intent to cause significant bodily injury and were excessive and without justification.

Several days after the altercation the victim suffered a fatal stroke. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:17B-107(a)(2), a state grand jury received evidence and heard testimony from the state medical examiner about the cause of the stroke and manner of death. The grand jury did not initiate homicide charges in connection with the victim’s death.

Deputy Attorneys General Amy Knutsen and Peter Choy prosecuted the case for OPIA, under the supervision of OPIA Executive Director Skinner.

Defense attorney:

Stuart Alterman, Esq., Evesham, New Jersey

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Explore New Jersey

Explore New Jersey

Your source for everything happening in the Garden State. Enjoy live music year-round, skiing, hiking, beaches, rivers, and mountains. Explore New Jersey’s wine scene by visiting top wineries and vineyards offering award-winning wines. Check out reviews and photos of the best places to sip and sample. Love beer? Discover New Jersey’s breweries — currently home to 123 licensed breweries — and explore the highest-rated beers brewed in the state.

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Monmouth University’s Blue Hawk Records Turns Springsteen Classics Into a New Generation Soundtrack

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Baseball
As the holiday season approaches, the Jersey Shore BlueClaws...

Jersey Shore BlueClaws Unveil the Liberty Bucket, a New Era of Shore Baseball Identity

Jersey Shore BlueClaws
A bold new symbol is making its way to...

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