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

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Published on February 13, 2025

Morris County Director Selen Delivers State of the County Address

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

View Photos from the Chamber’s 104th Annual Meeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of the Morris County Chamber 104th Annual Meeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Walk to Washington and A Call for a Stronger Economic Future

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Thomas A BrackenA Message from President & CEO Tom Bracken

Over 1,000 New Jersey business and government leaders joined the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce’s Walk to Washington & Congressional Reception last week, marking a triumphant return for the two-day event after a five-year hiatus.

The bottom line: The Walk remains the state’s premier business networking event. And in this pivotal gubernatorial election year, it also served as a powerful rallying call.

From our packed charter train to D.C. to the Congressional Reception and our highly attended gubernatorial forum, one message was clear: New Jersey’s business community is united in its commitment to building a stronger state economy at a much faster pace.

A Call for Pro-Growth Leadership

The size and enthusiasm of the crowds at our events in D.C. demonstrated a shared priority among business leaders: The need for the Legislature and the governor, including the next chief executive – regardless of party – to make economic growth and improving New Jersey’s business climate a top priority.

A growing economy is the most effective way to address and improve the state’s long-term fiscal challenges. Economic expansion creates jobs, increases incomes, fosters innovation, and enhances the quality of life for individuals and families. It also creates the organic, reliable revenue to assist our budgetary challenges.

At our gubernatorial candidates forum on Friday morning – a standing-room-only event – it was encouraging to see candidates focusing on business issues and outlining their economic vision for New Jersey. Across party lines, there was broad agreement on the need for pro-growth policies and a reduction in regulatory burden.

There was also unanimous agreement that regular constructive dialogue among the administration, the Legislature and the business community is an imperative to sound economic growth.

A Promising Step: The New Economic Council

That’s why I’m pleased to report that on Feb. 5 – the day before the Walk to Washington — I participated in the inaugural meeting of the state’s new Economic Council, created by Gov. Murphy. This Council, composed of government and business leaders, is focused on developing actionable strategies to make New Jersey a more competitive place to do business.

This ongoing dialogue (mandated to meet quarterly) between the business community and state government is a step in the right direction. I’m optimistic that the Council’s work will have a lasting impact, transcending administrations and laying the groundwork for New Jersey’s next governor to hit the ground running on economic growth, business retention, and job creation. Its future was also a topic of discussion at our Friday gubernatorial candidates forum.

The return of the Walk to Washington proved that the state’s business community is energized and looking to the future. The over 1,000 in attendance believed, as do I, that New Jersey has all the assets needed for companies to succeed. Now, we must capitalize on them and communicate, both domestically and internationally, the strong reasons why New Jersey is a top business destination.

Tom


 This message was originally published in ROI-NJ

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NJ’s Oldest Restaurant Enters a New Era After Multimillion-Dollar Renovations

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Being one of New Jersey’s oldest restaurants comes with glory. But cooking, serving and entertaining in a nearly 300-year-old building is also saddled with its own set of challenges.

So when the Black Horse Tavern & Pub in Mendham—the state’s oldest continuously operating restaurant—embarked on a massive multimillion-dollar renovation last March, there was no shortage of hurdles to overcome: from improving the condition of the building itself, which dates back to 1742 (when George Washington was a customer), to striking a balance between modernizing the restaurant and preserving its history, to pleasing the loyal legion of diners who were eager to return when it finally reopened its doors in January.

Black Horse Tavern & Pub

The Black Horse dates back to 1742, when George Washington ate here. Photo: Strix Media

“The Pub has always been this very iconic and emotionally driven restaurant for Mendham and in the surrounding communities,” says Kevin Felice, vice president of 40North Restaurants, which has owned the Black Horse since 2007. “And we want to make sure that we can maintain that for decades to come.”

The Black Horse has two buildings on its property in downtown Mendham—the Pub, a hospitality-driven, family-friendly eatery and bar, and the Tavern, a higher-end restaurant that in recent years had only been open for private events. The nearly 10 months of renovations only focused on the Pub; work on the Tavern, which unfortunately experienced a fire and subsequent damage during renovations, is expected to begin later this year.

The most significant upgrades were to areas that guests will never visit. The kitchen and back-of-house facilities were gutted to the studs; the basement (which, in past incarnations, had been a bar and even a furniture-restoration shop) now has a full prep kitchen, storage and more. The roof and siding were redone a couple of years ago.

Secret burger at Black Horse Tavern & Pub

The 1742 burger is an off-menu item that locals are dubbing the “secret burger.” Photo: Strix Media

The dining room, which was completely rebuilt, has a refreshed, modern-rustic look. It’s on-trend, but not sterile. Think: vaulted ceilings, cozy yet sleek-looking booths with brass accents, and vintage artwork, much of it equestrian-themed. The booths are meant to resemble horse stalls, as what’s now the Pub served as the horse stables for Tavern guests back in George Washington’s day.

Some touches of the Black Horse of yore were intentionally incorporated into the new design, like the beloved Clam Bar sign and much of the artwork. The check presenters and coasters are made from wood that used to be on the walls in the back room, now cutely dubbed the Fox’s Den. And the ceiling beams in the beautifully renovated Fox’s Den are made of the original wood floors.

Menu items at the Black Horse Tavern & Pub

A selection of dinner options, including pot pie (top left), garlic shrimp (center) and a beef and citrus salad. Photo: Strix Media

The menu, helmed by executive chef Dan Zappula, is filled with American classics, burgers and sandwiches, but with a level of elevation. Standout starters include the smashed avocado, served with warm tortilla chips, and the delightful burrata, which comes with slow-roasted tomatoes, fire-roasted peppers, prosciutto and basil. A gooey crock of French onion soup is always a great way to start a meal, too.

Entrées include a juicy brine-roasted chicken, steak frites, and crispy fish & chips.

But the buzziest item isn’t even on the menu. The 1742 burger, which locals have dubbed the “secret burger,” is a $29 patty made of a proprietary blend of meat the restaurant spent months perfecting. So why not list it?

“We wanted it to be a Mendham secret; we wanted it to be for our guest base,” Felice says. The burger is simple, without frills, so if you prefer your burger with lots of toppings and sauces, order the on-menu Black Label burger, a smash patty with American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, pickle, barn sauce and shaved onion, served on sesame challah.

Pretty Pickle cocktail at the Black Horse Tavern & Pub

The Pretty Pickle cocktail Photo: Strix Media

“The menu is very straightforward,” Felice says. “It’s food that you understand.” He adds, “It was very important to us to still be your local place where you can feel comfortable coming with your kids and having an after-soccer game meal, but also a space that’s perfect for date night and business meetings, and a menu that gives you the ability to kind of hit all those areas.” A kids’ menu is also available.

Dinner is served daily, while lunch is available on weekdays (except for Tuesdays), and brunch is offered on weekends.

Eggs in Purgatory at Black Horse Tavern & Pub

Brunch options include the Eggs in Purgatory, featuring baked eggs, a slow-cooked spiced tomato sauce, burrata, roasted peppers and basil. Photo: Strix Media

With any reimagining of a classic, critics inevitably pop up. But the Black Horse is taking any snipes in stride, even posting video to social media that, with humor, brushed off customer complaints about everything from the food to the “Chip and Joanna Gaines” style of decor.

Critics aside, the restaurant has been packed since reopening on January 13. On a recent Friday night, when my family and I had an early 5:30 pm reservation, there was a two-hour wait. A later Thursday night out with girlfriends was buzzing with couples and groups toasting with the Black Horse’s playful selection of cocktails.

Next up, the Pub plans to complete renovations of its improved outdoor space this spring, adding a sectioned-off area with retaining walls and stone.

Interior of Black Horse Tavern & Pub

Art from the old Pub and Tavern dots the walls. Photo: Strix Media

As for the Tavern, Felice says plans are still being worked out, and were impacted by the fire, but that construction is slated to start later this year.

He declined to say whether the space would once again be open beyond private events, but did say, “We are looking forward to bringing that building back to what it once was and what it needs to be.”


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$200M waterfront development approved for Perth Amboy

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The Perth Amboy Redevelopment Agency (PARA) and the City have finalized agreements with Kushner Companies to move forward with a $200 million plan to clean up a brownfield site and create a waterfront neighborhood, to be known as “Sea Gate.”

The project will bring to life 602 market-rate rental units in five buildings, as well as a minimum of 5,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space on the Arthur Kill.

Additionally, the redevelopment will bring numerous public amenities funded by the redeveloper, such as a waterfront, tree-lined esplanade stretching from Front Street to the bulkhead between Smith Street and Washington Street, as well as a playground, landscaped plazas and dog park for public use.

“We have been working closely with the redeveloper to create the type of plan that can benefit the entire Perth Amboy community, not just the residents of Sea Gate,” Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin Caba said. “We are directly revitalizing unused, waterfront property and creating the type of development that will benefit Perth Amboy for years to come.”

Under the agreement, the redeveloper will pay the city about $1.2 million annually as part of a long-term “payment in lieu of taxes” agreement. City officials note the redevelopment area now generates only about $113,000 a year in net revenue. The City Council approved the annual service charge agreement at its Feb. 12 meeting.

City officials envision Sea Gate to be a bustling community, with vans shuttling neighborhood residents to the Perth Amboy Train Station. Restaurants would dot the property, with views of the water, while there would be plenty of shopping to create another destination point on the water, which in the future may include a connection to Manhattan-bound ferry and possibly a marina.

To fulfill PARA’s vision for Sea Gate, the redeveloper is purchasing properties from the city for $4.6 million; the plan will include parcels on Front, Commerce, Rector, Broad, High and Fayette streets, explained PARA Executive Director Tashi Vazquez.

Kushner Companies will also be contributing $1 million to Perth Amboy for affordable housing assistance, she added.

“This property is a waterfront gem that has been under-used for far too long,” Vazquez said. “There are environmental challenges that can only be handled through redevelopment with a well-capitalized private partner who can create the highest and best use of this property, fulfilling our vision.

The 15.75-acre redevelopment area, with landscaping, streetscape improvements and lighting funded by the developer, will include 909 parking spaces. The project, with one- and two-bedroom units, is expected to be constructed over a three-year period.



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Kindergarten registration to open for 2025-2026 – Star News Group

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LAVALLETTE — Lavallette Elementary School will be holding its annual Kindergarten Round-Up next month, setting the stage for next year’s youngest students to join the school community.

The registration event will be held on Thursday, March 6. Parents or guardians can schedule a time to drop off completed registration forms by calling the Lavallette Elementary School front office at 732-793-7722 Ext 200.

Kindergarten registration forms are now available on the school’s website at lavallettek12.org/article/1980539.

To be registered, children must be 5 years old on or before Oct. 1, 2025.

“Please bring your child’s official raised seal birth certificate, proof of residency (rental receipt, lease or tax bill), along with proof of immunizations and a physical examination within the last year,” the school said in a news release. “A limited number of tuition positions may be available.”

Required immunizations are: four DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), three polio, three hepatitis B vaccines and two MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and varicella, with one dose having been given on or after the first birthday. The last DTaP and polio immunizations must be given after the age of four.

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

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Posted on

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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Perth Amboy Moves on $200M Waterfront Redevelopment Plan

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Sea Gate

General Business

The Perth Amboy Redevelopment Agency (PARA) is moving forward with a $200 million plan to clean up a brownfield site and create a waterfront neighborhood, to be known as “Sea Gate.” PARA and the city have finalized agreements with Kushner Companies to build 602 market-rate rental units in five buildings, as well as a minimum of 5,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space on the Arthur Kill.

The project is filled with public amenities funded by the redeveloper, such as a waterfront, tree-lined esplanade stretching from Front Street to the bulkhead between Smith Street and Washington Street, as well as a playground, landscaped plazas and dog park for public use.

“We have been working closely with the redeveloper to create the type of plan that can benefit the entire Perth Amboy community, not just the residents of Sea Gate,” said Mayor Helmin Caba. “We are directly revitalizing unused, waterfront property and creating the type of development that will benefit Perth Amboy for years to come.”

Under the agreement, the redeveloper will pay the city about $1.2 million annually as part of a long-term “payment in lieu of taxes” agreement. City officials note the redevelopment area now generates only about $113,000 a year in net revenue. The City Council approved the annual service charge agreement at its Feb. 12 meeting.

City officials envision Sea Gate to be a bustling community, with vans shuttling neighborhood residents to the Perth Amboy Train Station. Restaurants would dot the property, with views of the water, while there would be plenty of shopping to create another destination point on the water, which in the future may include a connection to Manhattan-bound ferry and possibly a marina.
To fulfill PARA’s vision for Sea Gate, the redeveloper is purchasing properties from the city for $4.6 million; the plan will include parcels on Front, Commerce, Rector, Broad, High and Fayette streets, explained PARA Executive Director Tashi Vazquez.
Kushner Companies will also be contributing $1 million to Perth Amboy for affordable housing assistance, she added.
As part of the agreement, the plan includes a memorial to Thomas Mundy Peterson, a city resident who was the first African American to vote in an election following the ratification of the 15th Amendment. His vote was cast on March 31, 1870.

“This property is a waterfront gem that has been under-used for far too long,” Vazquez said. “There are environmental challenges that can only be handled through redevelopment with a well-capitalized private partner who can create the highest and best use of this property, fulfilling our vision.

“There is a shortage of this higher-end type of rental housing in Perth Amboy, another key reason why we are moving forward with Sea Gate,” she added. “The redeveloper is envisioning such amenities as outdoor fire pits, barbeque areas, lounge space and other recreational areas that connect the tenants and the waterfront views.”

The 15.75-acre redevelopment area, with landscaping, streetscape improvements and lighting funded by the developer, will include 909 parking spaces. The project, with one- and two-bedroom units, is expected to be constructed over a three-year period.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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LD-39: Pallotta Clearly Targets Auth

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Jon Bramnick threw a party at last November’s League of Municipalities Convention in Atlantic City and one of those attending was Robert Auth, an assemblyman from LD-39 in northern Bergen County.

Frank Pallotta was paying attention and he didn’t like what he saw.

He put it this way:

“Recently, .. Assemblyman Bob Auth publicly rejected President Donald Trump, when he chose to align with, and endorse for Governor, self-proclaimed Trump-hater, State Senator Jon Bramnick. While Auth calls himself a ‘conservative,’ his actions tell a far different story.”

So now Pallotta says he’s running for the Assembly.

As we know, each district has two Assembly members with the other one here being John Azzariti.

But Pallotta is clearly targeting Auth, who he claims remained silent when Bramnick backed the Freedom to Read bill, which protects librarians from civil and criminal penalties regarding library books. Opponents say it allows pornography in schools.

Pallotta is no stranger to seeking office.

He ran unsuccessfully against CD-5 congressman Josh Gottheimer in 2020 and 2022.

Both times he ran “off the line” in the primary. And that’s a strategy Pallotta plans to employ again. He said:

“While I have great respect for the Bergen County Republican Organization’s (BCRO) approximately 800 Committee members, of which I remain an active member, I cannot in good conscience participate in an obsolete and antiquated convention process that can drag on for months, draining tens of thousands of dollars and critical resources away from what really matters – direct voter engagement. The main purpose of the county convention in past years had been to win placement on an organizational line – a line which no longer exists.”

Instead, Pallotta said he will focus on a direct connection with voters, “not backroom deals.”

That means paying attention to such issues as public safety, law enforcement, flood mitigation, crumbling infrastructure, overdevelopment, and the high cost of living.

Back when Auth was at Bramnick’s party, he said he was playing the “long game,” meaning that Bramnick remains the best GOP candidate to win the general election in a state where Dems still have a registration advantage of about 900,000.

On his reelection website the Auth campaign says:

“As our Assemblyman, Bob Auth has a proven record of commonsense leadership focused on helping the families, children, seniors, and taxpayers of Bergen and Passaic Counties. Whether it’s fighting for our fair share from Trenton or working within our communities, Bob Auth has your best interests at heart.”

 

 

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Westminster Conservatory to host free recitals for piano and flute

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originally published: 02/14/2025

(PRINCETON, NJ) — The Westminster Conservatory of Music will host two upcoming recitals; both are free and open to the public.

On Sunday, February 16, 2025 at 3:00pm, Westminster Conservatory faculty pianist Clipper Erickson will perform a solo recital entitled Spirituals and Sonatas. The recital will take place in Hillman Performance Hall in the Marion Buckelew Cullen Center, located at 101 Walnut Lane in Princeton, New Jersey.

The program includes two compositions by composers of African descent that incorporate material from the religious folksongs of African American culture: the Sonata in E Minor by Florence Price and Deep River from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s 24 Negro Melodies. The program also includes three short works by Laurie Altman, Prelude 17, Chorale and Fugue in B Major/Minor, and Boogie; and Sonata in G Minor by Swedish composer Wilhem Stenhammar. 

On Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 12:15pm, the Volanti Flute Quartet will perform as part of the series Westminster Conservatory at Nassau. The recital will take place in the Niles Chapel of Nassau Presbyterian Church, 61 Nassau Street in Princeton, New Jersey.

Quartet members Jill Crawford, Ellen Fisher Deerberg, John Lane and Katherine McClure will perform on piccolo, flute, alto flute and bass flute. The program will include original flute music, Lullaby by Jennifer Higdon and Harmony in Blue and Gold by Eric Ewazen, and an arrangement for flutes of Debussy’s Arabesque No. 2.

This program is made possible in part by the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission through funding from the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.


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Harmonium Choral Society presents “Sing Me To Heaven” concerts in March

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originally published: 02/14/2025

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) — Join the acclaimed 100-voice Harmonium Choral Society for their March concert on Saturday, March 1 @ 7:30pm or Sunday, March 2 @ 3:00pm at the Morristown United Methodist Church. The concert features Eleanor Daley’s exquisite Requiem and works by Heinrich Schutz, Dave Matthews and Caldwell and Ivory’s Ain’t No Grave.

“Named for composer Daniel Gawthrop’s iconic Sing Me to Heaven, this concert features a typical Harmonium eclectic array of music celebrating the afterlife, from Sheppard’s 500-year-old setting of Media vita, to a choral cover of Dave Matthews’s Gravedigger,” said Artistic Director Dr. Anne Matlack. “Daley’s a cappella short Requiem is an underperformed gem, while Australian composer Sarah Hopkins’s Past Life Melodies is like nothing else, with its throaty chanting and overtone singing. You need to be there to experience it!”

Harmonium Choral Society is dedicated to ensuring that all their patrons are able to enjoy the arts. For large print programs or accessibility needs or concerns, please contact them at least two weeks prior to the performance, and they will assist you in the best manner we have available.

Harmonium Choral Society is a participating arts organization that offers free tickets through the Families First Discovery Program.

Directed by Dr. Anne J. Matlack since 1987, Harmonium Choral Society is one of New Jersey’s leading choral arts organizations. The 100-voice chorus has been recognized for its musical excellence and innovative programming and has commissioned over 30 works by contemporary composers to keep the choral arts vibrant and alive.


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In addition, the High School Student Choral Composition Contest has won the prestigious Chorus America Education and Outreach Award. Harmonium also sponsors musicianship workshops and an outreach chorus that performs in schools, retirement facilities, and other venues. The chorus tours internationally, most recently to the Balkans in the summer of 2022.

Funding has been made possible in part by Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a partner of the National Endowment for the Arts.


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Cynthia A. Close

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Cynthia A. Close, 70, of Point Pleasant Boro, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at her home. Cindy was an accounts payable specialist who retired several years ago. Cindy loved spending time with her family and really dedicated her life to her sons and most recently to her grandson, Lukas. She really enjoyed living at the Jersey Shore and loved jogging on the boards with the ocean as her backdrop. Cindy loved her flower pots, rolling thunder roller coaster, chocolate covered strawberries, snuggling on the couch with Lukas and keeping the house clean. She loved spending time by the pool at the house with her late husband Kev and Brandi (german shepard) as he cooked tuna on the grill. But above all, she loved watching her sons and grandson play sports as she cheered the words “Go Go Gilio” that could be heard across the playing field.

Born in Elkins, West Virginia, she grew up in Spring Lake Heights and has lived in Point Pleasant Boro for the past 20 years or so.

Cindy joins her predeceased family members in Heaven, including her parents Denver and Faye Close; and her husband Kevin Gerrity. Surviving are her sons Clement Gilio of Wall and Christopher Gilio of Point Pleasant; grandson Lukas Gilio; sister Kimberly Bennett of Farmingdale; brother Jeffrey Close who resides in Florida; her cousins Sherry, Carole, Cathi, Karan, Jimmy and Aunt Raine; as well as her first husband and father of her 2 sons Clement Gilio of Toms River.

A private cremation took place under the direction of O’Brien Funeral Home, Brick. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to the American Cancer Society.

Cindy and her family thanks everyone for their love and support.

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Barcade in Jersey City to Close; More Dining News

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Closings

Barcade, Jersey City

After 14 years, Barcade—a chain that pairs classic video and arcade games with craft ales and pub fare—has decided to close its Jersey City location when its lease ends on June 15. “We hope to return to JC one day in a new location,” the owners wrote on social media, adding that in the meantime, they’re opening in Lower Manhattan this spring.

Le Salbuen, Montclair

When Le Salbuen opened in 2012, it won fans for boosting breakfast and brunch staples to flavorful new heights. The popular farm-to-table spot, which was on New Jersey Monthly’s list of the best restaurants in Montclair, closed suddenly last week. The space is reportedly slated to become a Japanese restaurant.

Openings

Sihana Bistro, Newark

Plate of food and a cocktail at Sihana Bistro in Newark

Sihana Bistro in Newark Photo: Courtesy of Urby Newark

This all-day bistro, replacing Jamie Knott’s Kinjo, brings a bold fusion of Mediterranean and Georgian flavors to Newark’s thriving food scene. Located inside the Newark Urby building, it offers dishes such as Khinkali (Georgian dumplings) and Chkmeruli (creamy chicken in garlic sauce), as well as craft cocktails made with spirits from the city’s All Points West Distillery. The restaurant also features Sunday live-music sessions and interactive cooking classes. Owners Kreshnik Berisha and David Khabuliani also helm Newark’s Sihana Café and Five Corners Ristorante.

Corner Slice, Maplewood

After seven years in Manhattan, where its New York Square Pie was named one of the best slices in the city, Corner Slice has moved to Maplewood. It’s known for its intensely flavorful, light and crispy crust. Toppings include house sausage, roasted mushrooms and Calabrian chili bomba. Order individual slices or whole pies, available for takeout or dine-in.

Life After Restaurant & Lounge, Edgewater

Located inside the Metropolitan apartment complex, this restaurant offers thoughtfully curated Southern, Caribbean and Spanish food. Also on tap: craft cocktails and live music.


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Thomas Grothues Appointed Director of the Rutgers University Marine Field Station : Newsroom

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Thomas Grothues, Associate Research Professor in the Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences.

Announcement by Oscar Schofield, Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department Marine and Coastal Sciences

Congratulations to Thomas Grothues on being appointed Director of the Rutgers University Marine Field Station (RUMFS), effective January 2025. We could not have a better new director as the station anchors Rutgers’ bold marine research, conservation and technology development being based at the edge of the mid-Atlantic Ocean. The station is a working lab with ongoing graduate and postdoctoral level research occurring year-round. RUMFS is uniquely situated across from the Little Egg Inlet in the Mullica River-Great Bay estuary and is one of the most pristine estuaries on the East Coast.

Grothues is an Associate Research Professor and brings a wealth of experience to the role, including serving as the research coordinator of the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve. His research has spanned the globe from fish habitats in New York Harbor and shark ecology in Asia to climate driven impacts along the New Jersey seaboard. He brings a wealth of experience of turning science insights into practical needs. 

His research portfolio of externally awarded grants is extensive, spanning a wide range of agencies and philanthropic organizations. Grothues also has high enthusiasm for bringing science to society, school kids and all users of our ocean. In addition, he is a technology innovator as a leader in using innovative robotic technologies to solve what were once intractable problems.

Thanks, Tom, for taking on this opportunity and we all look forward to helping you reach your exciting vision.



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Callahan to deliver commencement address at Centenary

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Portrait of Colonel Pat Callahan of State Police Edwin J. Torres/ Governor’s Office.

New Jersey State Police Superintendent Col. Patrick Callahan, who became a household name during the governor’s daily pandemic press briefings, will deliver the address at the 150th commencement of Centenary University, the school announced.

The graduation will be on May 10.

A member of the governor’s cabinet, Callahan is the 14th colonel of the state’s leading law enforcement agency and was appointed to his current post in 2017. The university will present Callahan with a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, to recognize his many contributions to the state and its residents.

“Col. Callahan is one of New Jersey’s most influential voices, with a message emphasizing that integrity, discipline, and hard work form the foundation for life success,” Centenary President Dale Caldwell said.

“That message is relevant for every member of the Class of 2025, no matter the career path they intend to follow. These are the qualities that define true leaders and make Centenary graduates unbeatable in the job market.”

A familiar face at Centenary, Callahan visits campus annually to address students in a course called Careers in Criminal Justice taught by Douglas Compton, assistant professor of criminal justice.

Compton invites a cadre of criminal justice professionals to discuss current issues in law enforcement and job opportunities in the field. Inspired by Callahan’s presentations, four recent Centenary alumni were among the 124 graduates of the 166th State Police Class last summer.

A native of Budd Lake, Callahan served as the N.J. State Police recovery bureau chief in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy and worked with state and federal partners to develop and implement long-term recovery effort strategies.

Callahan also served as the commanding officer of the Emergency Management Section and assistant state director of the Office of Emergency Management. He was the chairman of the Command and Control Subcommittee of the Emergency Management Section when New Jersey hosted Super Bowl XLVIII, working to develop and implement all operations undertaken by the Public Safety Compound.



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Black Ladies of Construction Opens New HQ

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Black Ladies of Construction Society

General Business

To kickoff Black History Month, The Black Ladies of Construction (BLOC) Society, a network dedicated to empowering Black and Brown women in real estate, celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters in Elizabeth with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 1. The ribbon cutting marked a significant milestone for the organization and its mission to foster economic empowerment and redevelopment within underserved communities.

The new headquarters will serve as a central hub for BLOC Society’s efforts in real estate education, entrepreneurship, and economic development. The space will offer resources, tools, and mentorship programs aimed at equipping women of color with the skills and knowledge necessary to build generational wealth through real estate investment and construction opportunities.

“We are incredibly excited to celebrate this monumental occasion, which marks a significant leap forward in our mission to empower Black and Brown women in real estate—an industry where we remain vastly underrepresented,” said Natasha Davis, CEO, The BLOC Society. “This new headquarters is not just a physical space, but a testament to our commitment to creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and transforming communities.”

Since 2021, The BLOC Society has had a commitment to breaking down barriers and leveling the playing field for women of color in the industry, with an impressive portfolio of over 21 projects across the Tri-State Area, generating more than $9 million in revenue. The Society’s groundbreaking work is creating sustainable, impactful change within historically underserved communities, driving economic development, and paving the way for future generations of women of color to succeed in the real estate and construction industries.

“This is more than just a building, more than the location. When you walk in these doors, you know that you have individuals around you who are going to be by your side every step of the way, making sure you get the empowerment you need, the inspiration you need, but most importantly, making sure that we bring this to the next level of helping one another and move forward, because that’s what it’s all about,” said Sergio Granados, Union County Commissioner. “When one of us moves forward, we help others move forward with us, and that’s what these three ladies at The BLOC Society are doing here in our community.”

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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Sinkhole keeping I-80 eastbound in Wharton, New Jersey shut. Here’s what experts think caused it.

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WHARTON, N.J. – Hopes of reopening Interstate 80 quickly have been dashed. 

A section of the eastbound lanes remains closed due to a 40-foot sinkhole, and it won’t be an easy fix. 

It started out as a depression in the roadway Monday, and quickly opened up into a large sinkhole. 

“The minute they started to do the soil borings, that’s when it opened up. So, you know, so it went from what we thought was going to be an easy fix to something much, much more difficult,” State Senator Anthony Bucco said. 

It’s not clear exactly how long it will take to reopen the closed lanes. 

What’s causing the sinkholes?

The new opening is just 75 feet from another sinkhole that closed I-80 in December. Officials are blaming abandoned mineshafts that have collapsed

“What really causes these sinkholes to open up after such a long amount of time is water,” College of New Jersey civil engineering professor Andrew Bechtel said. “Water probably caused the first sinkhole to collapse. When they filled it, they changed how water moved under I-80. And now they’re probably developing a new one in a different place. So the realistic problem is to figure out where all these old mines go, and then fill and cap them and then rebuild the road on top.”

Sinkholes causing anxiety, hurting local businesses

The recurring sinkholes are causing anxiety for some drivers. 

“The underground is like Swiss cheese. So I guess there’s a bunch of like mines that just weren’t filled in properly. And they just keep collapsing in on themselves,” Jefferson Township resident Jeiris Cook said. “I mean it’s pretty scary, you know, to think that the ground could just come undone underneath your feet at any moment.”

The eastbound closure is causing traffic to back up for miles, and it’s hurting some local businesses. 

At the Townsquare Diner on Route 15, the normally busy lunch hour was unusually quiet. 

“So people hear all the traffic in the area, they just divert. They go elsewhere,” owner Peter Sedereas said.

I-80 detour around sinkhole investigation

All eastbound lanes are closed at Exit 34. Drivers should use Route 46 or Route 10 as an alternative.

Route 46 eastbound alternative:

  • Drivers on I-80 eastbound are advised to take Exit 28/Route 46 eastbound to Route 10/Ledgewood/Lake Hopatcong, which is several miles before the closure
  • Continue on Route 46 eastbound
  • Stay in the left two lanes to turn left at the traffic signal to continue on Route 46 eastbound
  • Turn left onto Route 15 northbound in Dover back to I-80, or continue on Route 46 eastbound for about 12 miles and stay left for I-80 eastbound

I-80 eastbound detour:

  • Drivers on I-80 eastbound are being directed to take Exit 34 to Route 15/Wharton/Dover/Sparta
  • Stay right following signs for Route 15/Jefferson/Dover/Sparta
  • Stay in the left lane on North Main Street to Route 15 southbound/To I-80/Dover
  • Merge onto Route 15 southbound
  • Stay left to take the exit to I-80 eastbound

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Women’s Advisory Council | Burlington County, NJ

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

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

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

logos-Alice Paul

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

 

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

Click here to apply

1- NEW Burlington County Seal -August 2020image_BCRCCLogo

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

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

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

To apply for this scholarship, the recipient must:

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

Click here to apply

   

Logos-Remington

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

 

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

Click here to apply 

Logos-Virtua

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

 

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

Click here to apply 

1- NEW Burlington County Seal -August 2020

Burlington County Commissioners Leading the Way Scholarship

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

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

Click here to apply

The Outstanding Women of Burlington County:

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

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

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

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

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

Nomination Criteria:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for the form.

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Newmark Associates successfully trades house of worship

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Temple Beth Shalom, a house of worship located at 40-25 Fairlawn Avenue in Fair Lawn, recently sold for an undisclosed amount, according to a Thursday announcement from Newmark Associates Commercial Real Estate.

Mary Swatek, vice president of Newmark Associates, handled the transaction and managed a seamless process for the sellers.

The property, consisting of a 28,000-square-foot building situated on approximately 2-acres, has been a longstanding place of worship, community gathering space, and preschool, and presented unique considerations as this was the first time the property had been brought to market in over 60-years.

Understanding the commercial real estate market and sensitivity to the needs of religious institutions, Swatek navigated the complexities of the transaction to achieve a successful outcome. Working with the sellers involved complex communications and negotiations with the temple’s Sale Committee, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors as well as the local community.

Newmark Associates’ expertise in marketing specialized properties was instrumental in generating considerable interest resulting in multiple offers.

“It was truly a historic day for the synagogue. This sale will help perpetuate our legacy for decades. Mary did a fabulous job in trying circumstances. She helped to keep the process going and dealt with all the bumps in the road along the way,” Jeffrey Herrmann of Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann and Knopf, acting as a board member and legal counsel said.



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

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Published on February 11, 2025

Nearly 100 Attendees Learn About Resources and Support for Local Veterans

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

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

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

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

Missed the Event? View the Video Recording Available Online

View Photos from the Event

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

###

Photo 1: Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo.

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

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

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

 

 

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NHL Rumors: Marchand, Bruins, Gibson, Oilers, Devils, Canadiens – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

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In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Boston Bruins are reportedly getting calls about the availability of Brad Marchand. Could a big run at the 4 Nations tournament up his stock or make it so the Bruins want to hang onto Marchand? Meanwhile, John Gibson‘s name came up often this week in connection with the Edmonton Oilers. Is there anything to this speculation? Finally, could the New Jersey Devils be prepared to take a swing on acquiring Jake Evans from the Montreal Canadiens?

It’s unlikely anything will happen while Brad Marchand is playing for Team Canada, but could a trade take place between the time the games end and the NHL returns to action? It sounds increasingly like there’s something to trade discussions surrounding Marchand.

RG.org cites an NHL executive source who said, “They’re getting calls on [Marchand], and teams are wondering what they’re going to do here, but, at this point, I think they’re just listening.” They add, “Still, the fact that the Bruins or Marchand haven’t come right out and squashed this like they have in the past is telling. With things also being so quiet on contract talks, it tells you this is getting real.”

Brad Marchand Boston Bruins
Brad Marchand, Boston Bruins (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

It is being reported that the Bruins are not actively trying to trade their captain. But, this break might give both sides some time to reflect on where they want things to go. “The fact they’re listening, though, means that, if they can’t find common ground over this break, it becomes more than listening when they return from break.”

As for interested teams, the report notes the Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars are all teams that have been mentioned.

Gibson Linked to the Oilers, But Oilers Not Looking at Goalies

Elliotte Friedman reported he’d heard the Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes were the two teams goaltender John Gibson preferred as potential trade destinations this season. He has a $6.4 million cap hit and a 10-team no-trade list.

Related: NHL Rumors: Evans, Canadiens, Klingberg, Oilers, Canucks

The Oilers are an interesting fit for a few reasons. Friedman noted that he was under the impression Gibson wants to go where he’d be “the guy”, as in the starting goaltender.”. The Oilers have a starting goaltender in Stuart Skinner, who GM Stan Bowman has been very supportive of publicly. Skinner has been inconsistent at times, but he’s got decent numbers since November and he took the Oilers to within on win of a Stanley Cup last season.

There is also debate in Edmonton about how much of an upgrade Gibson would be and that, for the money, the Oilers are better off spending their cap space dollars elsewhere.

Are the Devils Interested in Jake Evans?

We reported that contract talks between Jake Evans and the Montreal Canadiens have not gone well. He’ll likely be traded ahead of the NHL trade deadline. New Jersey Hockey Now’s James Nichols notes that it’s “common knowledge” Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald wants to trade for a third-line center. Evans might be a target for them.

The Canadiens are looking for a second-round pick, and the Devils have three of them. They don’t have a first-rounder, which could pose a bit of an issue if several teams get involved and the price goes up.


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Bromilow’s Has Been Making Chocolates in NJ for Nearly 70 Years

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The 2025 Air War: Sweeney Versus Gottheimer

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When former senate president Steve Sweeney launched his first gubernatorial campaign ad for the 2025 race Wednesday, he came out with a tough-on-crime, blue-collar style message: this Democrat would support law enforcement and protect New Jersey families. It was a clear, simple, if broad message from the southern New Jersey ironworker. He was flanked by Gloucester County Sheriff Carmel Morina who said of Sweeney, “he doesn’t just talk, he gets [bleep] done… he’s cracked down on illegal guns…”

In northern New Jersey, Congressman Josh Gottheimer is running his own campaign ads as he seeks to succeed Phil Murphy. His message style was “very Jersey” – he appeared to be in a diner at a counter, talking about affordability and his mission to cut taxes. His ad also notes that New Jerseyans always hear about politicians wanting to cut taxes, but invites would-be voters to go to his website and see his tax plan. In another short video, he gets directly to the point and says he will cut taxes. “No bull$h!t.”

New Jerseyans on both sides of the aisle, which seems to have an ever-deepening chasm growing between them, may at least agree that they’d want a governor who can “get $h!t done” and don’t want any “bull$h!t.” It’s the language of the people, and Democrats have often been framed by the opposition as being out-of-touch with average folks, hung up on what they perceive to be more abstract issues rather than bread and butter. In short, bull$h!t.

When a convicted felon comes along, and speaks the people’s language about (sometimes bizarre) issues, but nevertheless ones that hold people’s attention, he is rewarded with the highest office in the land. Dems ignore this at their peril. These two Democratic ads do not compare to the national rhetoric being thrown around, as New Jersey politicians still generally adhere to a degree of decorum. But both of these men, one white collar, one blue collar, one northern, one southern, one a national official, one a former state official, are positioning themselves as “no bull$h!t” issues candidates: tackle crime, tackle affordability. Whether red, blue, green, or independent, everyone except those of the wealthiest class can agree that it is challenging to live in New Jersey and that one’s dollar doesn’t go as far as it did. Safe streets invite a stronger economy and better schools, an overall boost that appeals to anyone.

Both ads represent a race for the middle, to show they are safe and serious candidates that can win in November. Sweeney can categorize himself effectively as the working man’s Democrat, and try to win back some of the blue collar workers who defected to the populism of the Trump camp, feeling Democrats did not represent them. (He himself was deposed by a non-union trucker, Sen. Ed Durr, in a spectacular coup, although the seat flipped back to blue.) Further, as senate president, Sweeney can capitalize on his senior, state level experience for the governor’s bid. Gottheimer has a powerful bastion of support in terms of population and (lots of) money, largely in his Bergen base. For years he has championed himself as a bipartisan leader, working across the aisle for practical solutions and being re-elected in a relatively red district. The question for Democratic voters, then, looking for a centrist choice in a crowded field in the upcoming primary, is who is talking a line of bull$h!t and who is not?

 

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Revisiting the Lightning’s Blockbuster Trade for Blake Coleman – The Hockey Writers – Lightning History

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For the Tampa Bay Lightning, the 2019-20 season was a make-or-break moment for a franchise that had become known as good enough to make deep runs in the postseason but not good enough to win a Stanley Cup. After the well-documented 2019 Postseason collapse, it became clear that the team would have to find a way to win it all soon, or risk seeing another talented player core torn down after coming up empty-handed one too many times.

Given this atmosphere, Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois decided it was time to go all-in and buff his already impressive roster at the 2020 Trade Deadline. After standing pat with a group that looked unbeatable in 2019, BriseBois took an aggressive approach by cashing in a bevy of Tampa Bay’s picks and prospects in order to bring back players that could make the difference for a Stanley Cup push.

Lightning Acquire Coleman From Devils in Blockbuster Trade

The first major trade by the Lightning occurred on Feb. 16, 2020, when BriseBois shipped 2019 first-round draft pick Nolan Foote and the 2020 first-round pick they acquired in the J.T. Miller deal with the Vancouver Canucks to the New Jersey Devils for forward Blake Coleman. This trade made a lot of sense for Tampa Bay at the moment, even if it cost a premium price.

The reasons why BriseBois coveted Coleman were understandable. He was a solid defensive forward who was on an impressive scoring run for a bad New Jersey team, posting 21 goals and 31 points in 57 games. Not only that, he was being paid below market value at $1.8 million until the 2021 offseason, giving BriseBois a cost-controlled asset that could slot in, conceivably, anywhere in the lineup.

What Coleman Brought to the Lightning

Due to circumstances outside of anyone’s control, it took some time for Coleman to showcase his talents for Tampa Bay. However, once he started playing alongside Yanni Gourde and fellow deadline acquisition Barclay Goodrow in the 2020 Postseason, he became a key cog on one of the most impactful forward lines for the Lightning.

Sure they didn’t score every night, but this line changed the way Tampa Bay played. They were a tenacious force that brought to the ice everything you needed to win in the postseason. For his part, Coleman led the team in hits, took on more than two minutes of playing time short-handed each night, posted the Lightning’s last goal of the playoffs, and scored one of the best goals of the entire postseason.

Blake Coleman Tampa Bay Lightning
Even though Coleman may not have been the Lightning’s top scorer, his play was a driving force for the franchise getting over their postseason hump. (Photo by Scott Audette /NHLI via Getty Images)

With one successful postseason run under his belt, Coleman looked to continue his incredible play in the shortened 2020-21 season. In 55 games, he posted 14 goals and 31 points, while continuing to be an absolute pest alongside Gourde and Goodrow.

However, it was the 2021 Playoffs when Coleman once again made his mark on the franchise. In 23 games, he played that perfect energy role to help push the Lightning over the top. While he didn’t score a lot, the few times he hit the back of the net it was impactful, including a last-second goal that helped secure a victory in the Stanley Cup Final.

After winning back-to-back championships with the Lightning, Coleman departed the franchise and signed a well-earned six-year contract with the Calgary Flames paying him roughly $4.9 million per year.

What the Lightning Traded for Coleman

While Coleman’s tenure in Tampa Bay was successful, they didn’t get his services for free. Giving up a top prospect like Nolan Foote (His brother, Cal Foote, plays with the Nashville Predators) and a potential top-15 pick had the chance to backfire dramatically.

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First, let’s discuss Foote, who has been showing solid development since joining New Jersey. In the 2020-21 season, he played in 24 games for the then Devils’ AHL affiliate, the Binghamton Devils, posting seven goals and 17 points. He also got the call to start in six NHL games as well, scoring a goal and an assist.

In 2021-22, Foote continued this strong play for the Utica Comets in the AHL, starting in 37 games and posting eight goals and 22 points along with a plus-18, which was third-best on the team. Given that he is only 23 years old, there is still a lot of time for him to develop his power forward frame and become a top-six monster for New Jersey.

Now for the first-round pick, things could have gone a lot worse for Tampa Bay. The 2019-20 Canucks were a good team that had playoff aspirations despite some stretches of weak play that threatened to pull them out of contention. Despite this, after they went on a run in the 2020 Playoffs and came up just short of the Western Conference Final, this pick settled in at 20th overall for New Jersey.

With their third selection in the 2020 first round, the Devils took a bit of a risk on defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin. While some scouts saw Mukhamadullin as a sure-fire first-rounder, others had him going in the early third at best. However, as a 23-year-old with a 6-foot-4 frame and a path to take on big minutes in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), it’s easy to see why New Jersey took the chance on him.

Since being selected, Mukhamadullin has been a good player, taking on 39 games in 2020-21 and 34 games in 2021-22 for Ufa Salavat Yulaev. While his scoring numbers aren’t exceptional, he showed the development path for a player who made the jump to North America in subsequent; however, it wasn’t with the Devils as he was traded to the San Jose Sharks at the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline. He made his NHL debut with the Sharks on Jan. 27, 2024.

Who Won the Coleman Trade?

While it is always fun to discuss who won or lost a big trade in the moment, it often takes months or even years to fully understand the impact of these deals. If you’re a fan of the Lightning, the trade for Coleman was a clear win, as he played a key role in back-to-back championship runs. Depending on how you look at it, you can make the argument that this is one of if not the best deadline deals in franchise history.

On the other hand, if you’re a fan of the Devils, you can also make the argument that they won this trade. The team cashed out a prime asset at peak value, returning a top prospect and a first-round pick. This was no small return, and smart moves like this that can help kickstart a rebuild.

Read Also: Legendary Players, Weird Jerseys

In the end, if both teams can look at a trade positively, that means there likely isn’t a true winner. The Lightning got a piece that they needed, and the Devils got assets to help them rebuild for the future, making this a rare deadline win-win.

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Lila Keith

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

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

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NJ Restaurant Romances: These Couples Hit It Off Over Hot Stoves and Dirty Dishes

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Bramnick will not Compete in GOP County Conventions

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Bramnick will not compete in GOP County Conventions

 

Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Senator Jon Bramnick notified all Republican county organizations that he will not be competing in county Republican conventions. He released the following statement. 

“The decision to not compete in the county conventions across the state was not taken lightly. The work of the Republican County party leaders, county committee members and volunteers is an important part of the GOP. However, given the decision by other Republican candidates to not participate in the process, I believe the convention process will not accurately represent the true landscape of the primary this year. 

“I still intend to speak with county committee members across the state as well as rank and file Republican voters to encourage them to engage in the primary process. In the 2021 gubernatorial primary less than 24% of registered Republicans cast a ballot. My campaign is focused on building on the enthusiasm in the party to encourage more Republicans to participate in the primary this year.”

 

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Algonquin Arts Theatre presents Asbury Short Film Concert: World’s Best Short Films

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originally published: 02/12/2025

(MANASQUAN, NJ) — Asbury Shorts USA, New York City’s longest running non-competitive short film showcase returns to the revered Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan on Saturday, March 8, 2025 to present their national touring “44th Short Film Concert- An Evening of the World’s Best Short Films.”

The first film blasts on to the screen at 8:00pm. This will be Asbury Shorts USA’s thirteenth year bringing world renowned short films to Algonquin Arts. Diane Raver, Founder of The Garden State Film Festival, will once again serve as guest host. The short film concert is recommended for ages 16 and older.

Tickets are $15 and available for purchase online or by calling 732-528-9211. Algonquin Arts is located at 60 Abe Voorhees Drive in Manasquan, New Jersey.

Combining classic short films with current festival winners, Asbury Shorts USA provides a rare opportunity for audiences to view global hits on a real cinema screen as opposed to YouTube, computers, or smart phones.  Oscar nominated director Jason Reitman (“JUNO,” “Up in the Air,” “Thank You for Smoking,““Ghostbusters Afterlife”) calls Asbury Shorts: “The best short film show I’ve ever experienced.”

The March 8th presentation will feature a mix of outstanding comedy, drama and animated shorts in a fast paced, eclectic lineup including Oscar nominees, “Best of Show” awardees from U.S. film festivals and international honorees.


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Asbury Shorts “concerts” have been presented at: The Museum of Fine Arts Boston, The Vero Beach Museum of Art in Florida, Summer Stage in Central Park, The Charleston Music Hall in South Carolina, Director’s Guild Theater in Manhattan, The AERO Theatre in Santa Monica, CA, Osprey Arts Center in Nova Scotia, Canada, Royal Festival Hall in London, U.K., The Leminske Theater in Berlin, Germany…to name a few of the prestigious venues where audiences have enjoyed these amazing films including 12 years previously at Algonquin Arts Theatre.

Algonquin Arts Theatre (AAT) is a 501c(3) non-profit center for performing arts, providing cultural enrichment and arts education for residents and visitors of Central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore through high-quality performances and programs in theatre, music, dance and film.

Located in Manasquan, N.J., AAT is an integral part of the Shore region, offering broad access to arts experiences across multiple disciplines. Deeply committed to education, AAT serves students of all ages not only through art and music instruction, but also through the unique communal conversation that exists between audience member and performer. A journeyman house, AAT features the work of young and emerging artists, designers and directors working alongside seasoned professionals. AAT provides a platform for local and regional performers to showcase their work and offers audiences the opportunity to engage very directly and personally in the arts, fostering greater participation and providing an engaging means for exploring personal and societal issues through the world of the stage.


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American Theater Group presents “Purlie”

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originally published: 02/12/2025

(RAHWAY, NJ) — Broadway veteran Kenny Ingram will direct American Theater Group’s (ATG) production of the exhilarating and Tony Award-winning musical Purlie, running March 6-23, 2025, at Hamilton Stage in Rahway. Gary Mitchell, Jr. will provide Musical Direction. Purlie is the 1970 musical adaptation of Ossie Davis’s comedic play Purlie Victorious, which just completed a hugely successful revival on Broadway last season.

Ingram was nominated for a 2023 Audelco Award for his direction of James T. Lane’s  Triple Threat Off Broadway at Theatre Row and choreographed the NY Times’ Critic Choice’s Emojiland at the Duke on 42nd St. Ingram’s Broadway debut was in The Lion King, where he performed for a decade.

Featuring an unforgettable score, Purlie tells the story of a traveling preacher who returns to his hometown in Georgia and concocts a scheme to reclaim his church while ringing the bell of freedom for plantation workers.  Nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Direction and Best Choreography, the original Broadway production launched the careers of Melba Moore (Tony Award – Best Featured Actress in a Musical), Cleavon Little (Tony  Award – Best Performance by a Leading Actor) and Sherman Hemsley. Purlie was written by Ossie Davis, Philip Rose and Peter Udell with music by Gary Geld.

(LEFT) Timothy Ware-Hill (RIGHT) Aeja Barrows

Leading the cast as Purlie will be Timothy Ware-Hill (Broadway: Kinky Boots), joined by newcomer Aeja Barrows as Lutiebelle. Tyson Jennette  (B’way: Book of Mormon) will portray Gitlow, Tom Souhrada ((B’way: Mary Poppins) will play Ol’ Cap’n, Ryan Bronston will play Charlie, Nicole Powell (B’way: Ragtime, Hairspray) will portray Missy, Virginia Woodruff  (B’way: Violet, Leap of Faith) will play Idella and Kayla Ceaser, Berlin Lee Charles, Lilliannie Arie Urgent, Maya Mays, Lathan Roberts, Joshua Shepard, Shaquile Hester and LJ Brodie will round out the ensemble. A local choir will also appear in the opening and closing numbers.

Tickets are available for purchase online or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226. Ticket prices range from $20 (student) to $65. Performances are Thursday – Sunday, March 6-9; Thursday – Sunday, March 13-16 and Friday – Sunday, March 21-23. Hamilton Stage is located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway, New Jersey.


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“Purlie is a show that we are delighted to re-introduce to new audiences,” noted ATG Producing Artistic Director Jim Vagias. “It has an amazing, raise-the-roof score that is a real crowd-pleaser.  It is truly a great American musical that we are honored to produce.”

Kenny Ingram has served as director and/or choreographer at Regional Theaters across the US, most recently at Maine State Music Theatre where he directed and choreographed Funny Girl and 9 to 5 The Musical. He also served as director/choreographer for The Wiz at New Bedford Musical Festival Theater and Blues in the Night at Porchlight Dinner Playhouse in Chicago, for which he won a Jeff Award. He also choreographed Emojiland at the Duke, Turtles on a Fence Post and Till, The Musical. In addition, Ingram served as choreographer for Dreamgirls, Sound of Music and Jolly Holiday at Papermill Playhouse. He will make his directing and choreography debut this spring at The Fulton Theatre in Pennsylvania with Anastasia.

Musical Director Gary Mitchell, Jr., regularly collaborates with renowned singers, instrumentalists, artists, and ensembles throughout the world.  He has been featured at Carnegie Hall, The Apollo Theatre, Lincoln Center, The Harlem Opera Festival, The United Nations, Teatro alla Scala, Dance Theater of Harlem, 54 Below, Cape Playhouse, New London Playhouse, Syracuse Stage, and Barrington Stage Theatre with select performances in Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, Copenhagen, and Australia.. He has also collaborated and performed with The New York Historical Society, Broadway Inspirational Voices, PBS, MTV, VH1, and is currently Director of Music and Arts Administration at First AME Church: Bethel-Harlem.

The creative team also includes Bernita Robinson (Production Stage Manager); Cat Murphy (Production Manager); Max Evans (Assistant Stage Manager); Jose Luis Santiago Jr (Lighting Designer); Saawan Tiwari (Costume Designer); Seth Howard (Set Designer); Travis Joseph Wright (Sound Designer); Ben Merrick (Tech Director); Alison Merrick (Props) and Sara Norton (Hair and Wigs).

​​​​​​​Purlie is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Following Purlie, ATG will present “Broadway in the ‘Burbs,” a unique 90-minute “behind-the-scenes” look at Broadway with veteran theater critic and insider Peter Filichia at the Sieminski Theater on May 17-18.   Filichia will regale the audience with anecdotes, gossip and entertaining tales of his life on the aisle, including his 20 years as the state’s top critic for the NJ Star-Ledger.  He will be joined by Broadway artists singing popular songs from the shows mentioned. Filichia has seen 13,000 shows in 47 states and 17 foreign countries, appears on the “Broadway Radio” podcast and has a weekly column for Masterworks Broadway.

Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) is a non-profit organization offering quality programming and performances that strive to be educational, affordable, and enrich the arts within our diverse communities. UCPAC features two venues, the Main Stage, built in 1928, and the Hamilton Stage, a recently renovated intimate 199-seat theater built by the City of Rahway Redevelopment Agency, and located at 360 Hamilton Street.


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North to Shore Festival presents Slightly Stoopid at Stone Pony Summer Stage

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originally published: 02/10/2025

(ASBURY PARK, NJ) — As part of the Prudential North to Shore Festival, Slightly Stoopid will bring their new tour, Step Into The Sun Summer 2025, to Stone Pony Summer Stage on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 6:30pm. They will be joined by support acts Iration and Little Stranger.

Since their inception in 1995, Slightly Stoopid—fronted by the incredibly versatile duo Miles Doughty and Kyle McDonald—has evolved a unique fusion of rock, reggae, acoustic soul, hip-hop, heavy metal, and punk rock. They have achieved both artistic freedom and commercial success while staying true to their DIY ethos. The band has grown from an original trio to a seven-piece ensemble, becoming a generational leader in a burgeoning subculture and lifestyle movement.

“We’re thrilled to hit the road this summer with our longtime friends Iration and to welcome Little Stranger to the family,” said Miles Doughty of Slightly Stoopid. “We have some new tunes that we’re eager to share, and we’re particularly excited to perform at some venues we’ve yet to explore.”

Tickets are available for purchase online. Stone Pony Summer Stage is located at 913 Ocean Avenue in Asbury Park, New Jersey.

Launched in 2023, the North 2 Shore festival is a unique combination of performances by artists beloved both internationally and in their hometowns. In its first two years, the festival brought in more than $25 million for ticketed events and has drawn a total audience of over 500,000 to more than 650 shows in approximately 250 venues in Newark, Asbury Park and Atlantic City.


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The 2025 festival will take place from June 9-29 and will be sponsored by Prudential Financial for the second year in a row. Details about the lineup and venues will be announced at an in-person press conference in the first quarter of 2025.

Once again, both global headliners and artists who hail from cities along the festival route will take the stage in front of an audience drawn from across the region. North to Shore Community Arts Awards will be given to artists, arts organizations, nonprofits, and small businesses to produce and present free festival events. Additionally, the festival will now include season-long community engagement events in Atlantic City. A complete list of free and ticketed festival events will be shared at northtoshore.com in spring 2025.


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