The New Jersey Devils have been on a hot streak this season. Before the holiday break, their record stood at 21-11-3. Coming back from the break, they have played in four games so far; they’ve only won one. As the NHL reaches the halfway point of the season, this three-game loss streak New Jersey is on should not define their performance for the rest of the season.
Devils’ Heavy Travel Period
After a three-day break for the holidays, the Devils had a home game against the Carolina Hurricanes. They came out the gate swinging, defeating the visitors 4-2. After celebrating the high of the win, the Devils had to travel straight to Raleigh to face the Hurricanes once more this season. On the second half of a back-to-back, coming off the holiday break, the Devils were tired. They definitely played as if they were.
Carolina outshot them 41-23, which is not like the Devils at all. The Devils usually have more puck control than this. They usually take way more shots, not always finding the back of the net, but more shots nonetheless. When you compare the game the day prior, when they hosted the Hurricanes, the Devils outshot the visitors 31-23. They had better puck control and stronger defensive play when they were at home versus when they played the second game of the back-to-back.
Immediately after traveling to Carolina, the Devils had to head to California. With the loss weighing them down, the Devils had to get into a winning mindset for this West Coast road trip. Unfortunately, that mindset hasn’t hit them yet. Perhaps it’s the jet lag, but once again, the Devils looked tired out on the ice. Losing to both the Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings, the Devils had some good chances, but they were on the receiving end of some negative calls.
On Jan. 1 when they faced the Kings, Timo Meier‘s goal was disallowed due to goaltender interference. Stefan Noesen was in front of the Kings goalie, Darcy Kuemper, who got his stick between Noesen’s legs and was “unable” to get it back into proper goaltending position. Although this goal would not have let the Devils win, it would have changed the end result to make sure the Devils did not get shut out.
The Devils will be continuing on this West Coast road trip, facing off against the San Jose Sharks and finally the Seattle Kraken. The Devils had three days between the Kings game and the Sharks game. Hopefully, they have adjusted to the time zone and will be back in fighting shape.
Not the Devils’ First 3-Game Loss Streak
The Devils had a four-game loss streak back in October, falling to the Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, Detroit Red Wings, and the New York Islanders. Since then, the Devils have not hit a losing streak higher than two consecutive games. This three-game loss streak is not like the Devils’ performance this season. However, fans should not fret.
Even with the loss streak, the Devils are still in high standings in the Eastern Conference. They are just beneath the Capitals. Washington has 53 points while the Devils have 51. New Jersey is currently three points ahead of the next team, which is the Hurricanes. The standings can always fluctuate, but what matters is that the Devils are high up on the chart. They have a very strong chance of clinching a playoff spot with how they have been performing. This little slump is not going to slow them down.
Devils Need to Start Markstrom
Two of the Devils’ three consecutive losses had Jake Allen in the net. While not completely the goaltender’s fault, there is a clear reason why Jacob Markstrom is the starting goalie for the Devils.
Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
It is not fair to Markstrom to start every game. He definitely needs a break sometimes. However, he has a save percentage of .912 out of 28 games while Allen has .901 in 13 games. Allen’s last five games he has played have been losses, while Markstrom has not had a loss since Dec. 10 when the Toronto Maple Leafs beat him in overtime. It is clear that the Devils earn more wins when they start Markstrom.
Everyone Has Rough Patches
While fans might be feeling low with the Devils’ performance as of late, there is still hope. The team has been performing exceptionally well this season. Everyone hits some low points. Unfortunately, the Devils are currently in this low period. Just like in life, there are always highs and lows in hockey. Despite the low at this point, there has to be a high peak right around the corner.
(HACKETTSTOWN, NJ) — Start the New Year with Centenary Stage Company’s Winter Thaw Music Festival. This year, the music festival will feature concert performances by Good Co., Judy Carmichael, TAKE3: Where Rock Meets Bach, and Gangstagrass throughout the next few weeks.
Kicking off Centenary Stage Company’s January Thaw Music Festival will be a performance from Good Co. on January 11, 2025 at 8:00pm. Seattle’s Good Co is the USA’s first Electro Swing band. Combining the sounds of 1920’s and 30’s jazz with the electronic music of today, Good Co, uses live horns, vintage samples, and funky beats to create a whole new type of dance party. Since 2013 Good Co has performed throughout the US, Canada, and Europe for music festivals, conventions, burlesque performances, and anywhere else they can sneak into.
Then, join Centenary Stage Company as Judy Carmichael takes to the stage on January 19 at 2:00pm. Grammy nominated pianist (and vocalist/radio host/humorist) Judy Carmichael is one of the world’s leading interpreters of stride piano and swing. Count Basie nicknamed her “Stride,” acknowledging the command with which she plays this technically and physically demanding jazz piano style. Judy has been featured on A Prairie Home Companion, NPR’s Morning Edition, Entertainment Tonight, CBS’ Sunday Morning, CNN’s Business Unusual, Mornings With Margaret Throsby for the Australia Broadcast Corporation, Jo Soares in Brazil and the BBC’s Loose Ends, In Tune, Up All Night, Woman’s Hour and numerous other shows. She created/produces/hosts, Judy Carmichael’s Jazz Inspired now in its 25 years on NPR stations across the country and podcasting on all platforms.
Following that will be TAKE3: Where Rock Meets Bach on January 26 at 2:00pm. TAKE3, brings the refinement of a rigorous classical music background and infuses it with rock-star charisma. With training at the World’s top conservatories, TAKE3, created by violinist/vocalist Lindsay Deutsch (Yanni’s featured violin soloist), alongside cello and piano, are creating pop/rock/classical fusion music for their show, Where Rock Meets Bach. Whether they are rockin’ the Bach or are classically infusing the hits of The Beatles, Bieber or Coldplay, TAKE3 have performed for audiences at venues and events including Music in the Mountains, Redlands Bowl, OK Mozart Festival, Festival Mozaic, Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill, and Bear Valley Music Festival.
Finally, Gangstagrass will close out the Winter Thaw Festival on February 1 at 8:00pm. Gangstagrass is a multi-racial collective of musicians who demolish every preconception you have about country and hip-hop music. These string pickers and MCs create a shared cultural space for dialogue and connection between folks that usually never intersect as Gangstagrass blends America’s rural and urban music traditions. Integrating banjo and fiddle with hip-hop beats and rapping may be something Gangstagrass does for the love of the music, but it has led them to face a history of racialized genres and deeply ingrained sense of cultural incompatibility.
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All Winter Thaw Music Festival performances will take place in the Sitnik Theatre of the Lackland Performing Arts Center located on the campus of Centenary University at 715 Grand Avenue, Hackettstown, NJ Ticket prices for the three concerts in January are $29.50 for adults and $15 for students of any age & children under 12. Gangstagrass tickets are $30.00 for all seats.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit centenarystageco.org or call the Centenary Stage Company box office at (908) 979-0900. The Centenary Stage Company box office is open Monday through Friday from 1:00-5:00 pm and two hours prior to performances. The box office is located in the Lackland Performing Arts Center on the campus of Centenary University at 715 Grand Ave. Hackettstown, NJ. Centenary Stage Company can also be found across social media platforms; Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter. Like and follow to receive the latest in CSC news and special offers.
The 2024-25 Season of Performing Arts events at the Centenary Stage Company is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and grantors like the NJ State Council on the Arts, the Shubert Foundation, the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the Sandra Kupperman Foundation, the John and Margaret Post Foundation, the CSC corporate sponsors, including Explore Warren, the House of the Good Shepherd, Hackettstown Medical Center Atlantic Health System, Heath Village, Visions Federal Credit Union, and Fulton Bank, and Centenary Stage Company members and supporters.
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The first period was a slow start for each team. The only moments of note were Paul Cotter earning a minor penalty for hooking Quinton Byfield and Anze Kopitar getting his first penalty of the season for holding Luke Hughes. The Devils took 15 shots on net while the Kings took eight. The Devils had better puck control throughout the first, but neither team was able to score on their chances.
With 6:23 on the clock in the second period, the Kings opened the scoring between the two teams. Jacob Moverare passed to Jordan Spence, who sent the puck up toward the neutral zone. Andre Lee grabbed hold of the puck and was able to skate ahead of the two Devils who flanked him. He got up to the goal and shot it into the back of the net to score the first goal of his NHL career. Six minutes later, Timo Meier was able to tie things up for the Devils. Unfortunately for them, the goal was disqualified due to goaltender interference. With each team just earning another two-minute penalty, there was still 20 more minutes of work to be done; it was still anyone’s game.
Quinton Byfield, Los Angeles Kings (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
Early into the third, the Devils went on their third power play of the night. Alex Turcotte was sent to the box after tripping L. Hughes. Once again, they were not able to benefit from the man advantage. Shortly after that, the Devils were able to get an extra man advantage. Cotter was sent to the box for roughing Brandt Clarke. In the middle of their man advantage, Byfield was called on his second penalty of the night for tripping Brett Pesce. With this call, it was time for some 4-on-4 hockey for a minute and 16 seconds. Despite a fantastic chance by the Kings towards the end of the 4-on-4, Jake Allen had other plans and made an excellent glove save. As the Devils’ 41 seconds of power play time came to an end, the Kings put another point up on the scoreboard. Mikey Anderson got ahold of the puck in the Devils zone and passed it up to the Kings zone where it was caught by Warren Foegle. Byfield shot up the ice towards the front of the net. Foegle passed to Byfield, who shot the puck and scored the second goal of the game for the Kings.
The Devils were already down two, so in an attempt to try and make a comeback, they pulled their goalie. The Kings were the only ones to benefit from this, though, scoring an empty net goal. L. Hughes whiffed a shot at the net, and Anderson was able to recover the missed shot. He passed to Foegle who in turn sent the puck over to Adrian Kempe. Kempe took a shot from the center of the ice and the puck hit its mark in the back of the empty goal. The Devils had another chance to make a comeback when Turcotte was sent to the box on a double minor for high-sticking Ondrej Palat. Despite this, it didn’t matter as the Devils were unable to score, even with a 6-on-4 advantage. The Kings reigned victorious in this Jan. 1 match.
Next Games
The Kings and the Devils each have a break and look to get back into fighting shape on Saturday, Jan. 4. The Devils look to break a three-game losing streak when they face off against the San Jose Sharks during this West Coast trip. The Kings look to keep up their momentum when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The New Jersey Devils begin 2025 with a New Year’s Day showdown against the Los Angeles Kings at the Crypto.com Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 6 p.m. ET. After a tough 3-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks the previous evening, the Devils are seeking to get back on track during the second game of their five-game road trip. New Jersey, which was playing some of its best hockey before the holiday break, has struggled to find its rhythm since returning to action.
Devils’ Key Players and Performance
Leading the charge for the Devils is Jesper Bratt, who has been outstanding this season with 33 assists and 47 points—both career highs. Alongside him, Jack Hughes is close behind with 46 points (15 goals and 31 assists), continuing to be a force on the ice. Captain Nico Hischier also stands out with a team-high 18 goals, and the Devils boast five players who have reached double digits in goals so far this season.
While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, their recent road trip has been rocky, losing their first two matchups. Goaltender Jake Allen, who is expected to start against the Kings, has a 5-6-1 record on the season, with a 2.89 goals-against average and .900 save percentage. New Jersey will need a strong performance from Allen to halt the skid and gain some momentum on the road.
Kings’ Recent Form and Leadership
The Kings, who are currently holding down the No. 2 spot in the Pacific Division behind the Vegas Golden Knights, are entering the game in solid form. They closed out 2024 with back-to-back victories over Edmonton (4-3 in overtime) and Philadelphia (5-4), adding to the momentum gained from a seven-game, 15-day road trip earlier in the month where they posted a 3-2-2 record.
Los Angeles is led by future Hall of Famer Anze Kopitar, who, at 37 years old, is still playing at an elite level. Kopitar leads the team with 27 assists and 39 points, showcasing his skill and leadership in his 19th NHL season. Adrian Kempe, with 17 goals, is the Kings’ top scorer, while goalies David Rittich and Darcy Kuemper have shared the crease. Kuemper has posted the stronger numbers on the season and may get the start against the Devils.
However, the Kings have been missing a major piece in defenseman Drew Doughty, who is recovering from a fractured ankle. While Doughty has begun skating again, he remains sidelined for now.
Who’s Hot
Devils: Forward Stefan Noesen has been on fire, already setting a career-high with 16 goals this season. Over the past seven games, he has notched three goals and two assists, continuing his strong campaign.
Kings: Quinton Byfield, the 22-year-old No. 2 overall pick from the 2020 NHL Draft, has been heating up with five goals and eight points in his last seven games. His two-goal, three-point performance, including an overtime winner against Edmonton, has showcased his growing confidence.
Injuries
Devils: The Devils are dealing with the absence of defenseman Nikita Hatakka, who is on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury.
Kings: The Kings are missing forwards Trevor Moore (upper body) and Brendan Leipsic (lower body), along with defenseman Drew Doughty (ankle), who has been sidelined all season.
Previous Matchup
The Devils and Kings met earlier in the season on December 12 in New Jersey, where the Devils earned a 3-1 victory. In that game, Jack Hughes was the standout performer with three points, including a game-winning third-period goal. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom was solid, stopping 13 of 14 shots, including an important penalty shot from the Kings’ Alex Turcotte.
Game Notes
This is the second and final meeting between the Devils and Kings this season, and the only game to take place in California.
The Kings have been dominant at home, winning seven consecutive games. They boast a stellar 12-2-1 record at Crypto.com Arena, making them a tough opponent on their home ice.
As the Devils look to turn their road trip around and the Kings aim to maintain their strong standing in the Pacific Division, this New Year’s Day contest promises to be an exciting and hard-fought battle. Will the Devils bounce back from their recent losses, or will the Kings extend their home dominance? Tune in to find out.
For the final game of 2024, the Anaheim Ducks and the New Jersey Devils faced off to ring in the new year. Although the Devils made an impressive comeback in the third period, it was the Ducks who would be victorious 3-2 on home ice.
Game Recap
At the halfway point, the action kicked off. Troy Terry kicked off the scoring for the Ducks. Ryan Strome received a pass from Frank Vatrano. Although the Devils tried to stop the puck from staying in the Ducks zone, Strome had other plans. He was able to get it across the wall and over to Terry. He was wide open in front of the net and was able to score the first goal of the night. Aside from the goal, the only other action was from penalties. The Ducks received three while the Devils only took one. Cutter Gauthier, Brett Leason, and Terry all saw two minutes in the box in the second half of the first period while only Brendan Dillon received a penalty for interference. The Devils took 15 shots on goal while the Ducks only took five. It was the Ducks shots that mattered more though, since they were able to actually score a goal in the first period.
Troy Terry, Anaheim Ducks (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
There were no goals scored in the second period, however, there were a handful of penalties taken. At 8:20, the Devils took two penalties while the Ducks took one. Nico Hischier took two penalties, one for hooking and one for holding, both against Alex Killorn. Kurtis MacDermid had to sit for one of the penalties, joining his teammate in the box. Killorn also took a penalty for elbowing Hischier. Surprisingly no goals were scored during these two minutes of 4-on-3 hockey. With the penalty killed, the Devils were back to being down a man after Jesper Bratt was called for tripping Strome. With less than two minutes left in the period, the Devils took another penalty after Curtis Lazar sent the puck over the glass and delayed the game. Ten penalty minutes earned and 17 total shots, with the Ducks taking 11 and the Devils six, there was still plenty of work to be done in the third period.
Just about four minutes into the third period, the Ducks were able to extend their lead. Brian Dumoulin took the puck away from the Devils zone. With a pass to Gauthier, he skated up the ice with Robby Fabbri. The pair only had Luke Hughes on them. Taking advantage of the 2-on-1, Gauthier passed the puck over to Fabbri through the legs of L. Hughes. Fabbri was able to take a shot and score the second of the night for the Ducks.
At 5:31, the Devils were finally able to get on the board. Jackson LaCombe was attempting to get the puck out of the Devils’ zone. Jonas Siegenthaler grabbed a hold of it before anyone on the Ducks was able to. He immediately took a shot and put the Devils on the board. Eight minutes later, the Devils tied it up. The Devils were able to get the puck out of the Ducks’ zone and make a breakaway towards the net. Stefan Noesen, Dougie Hamilton, and Timo Meier were passing back and forth to each other. With four Ducks on them, it made it difficult to score. Hamilton was able to find an opening and scored the second goal of the night for the Devils.
Immediately after the goal, some excitement broke out, earning each team another minor. Hischier was sent to the box again, this time for roughing Mason McTavish. McTavish also earned the same penalty after his reaction to Hischier. Although there was 4-on-4 hockey for two minutes, neither team was able to score. LaCombe received a pass from Vatrano at the blue line. He passed to Strome, who skated up to take a shot from the right faceoff circle, which found its mark at the back of the net. He was able to break the tie and put the Ducks in front to win their final game of the year.
Next Games
The Devils look to start 2025 on the right foot, facing off against the Los Angeles Kings on Jan. 1. The Ducks look to continue their win streak when they travel to Winnipeg to face off against the Jets on Jan. 2.
(NEWTON, NJ) — Carl Palmer brings Welcome Back My Friends – An Evening with Emerson Lake & Palmer to The Newton Theatre on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 7:00pm. This is not a tribute act – this is the real thing.
Created by Carl Palmer and his management, Welcome Back My Friends – An Evening with Emerson Lake & Palmer will be presented with the full cooperation of the Estates of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake. Through modern technology they will reunite the band: Palmer with his two bandmates, playing together along with Emerson and Lake, who both passed away in 2016. The show combines video performance of Emerson and Lake from a legendary sold out 1992 Royal Albert Hall ELP show, with live on stage performances of Palmer with his own ELP Legacy band, Paul Bielatowicz on guitar and Simon Fitzpatrick on bass and chapman stick. All the musicians play together in sync to present a complete and authentic ELP show.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer (informally known as ELP) was an English progressive rock supergroup formed in London in 1970. The band consisted of Keith Emerson (keyboards) of the Nice, Greg Lake of King Crimson (vocals, bass, guitar, producer), and Carl Palmer of Atomic Rooster (drums, percussion). With nine RIAA-certified gold record albums in the US and an estimated 48 million records sold worldwide, they are one of the most popular and commercially successful progressive rock groups of the 1970s, with a musical sound including adaptations of classical music with jazz and symphonic rock elements, dominated by Emerson’s flamboyant use of the Hammond organ, Moog synthesizer, and piano (although Lake wrote several acoustic songs for the group).
The band became prominent after performing at the Isle of Wight Festival in August 1970. In their first year, the group signed with E.G. Records (who distributed the band’s records through Island Records in the United Kingdom and Atlantic Records in North America) and released Emerson, Lake & Palmer (1970) and Tarkus (1971), both of which reached the UK top five. The band’s success continued with Pictures at an Exhibition (1971), Trilogy (1972), and Brain Salad Surgery (1973, released on ELP’s own Manticore Records label). After a three-year break, Emerson, Lake & Palmer released Works Volume 1 (1977) and Works Volume 2 (1977). After Love Beach (1978), the group disbanded in 1979.
Tickets range from $49-$79 and are available for purchase online starting Friday, January 3rd at 10:00am. The Newton Theatre is located at 234 Spring Street in Newton, New Jersey.
The band members played in various solo and partial reunion combinations during the 1980s. In 1991, the original trio re-formed and released two more albums, Black Moon (1992) and In the Hot Seat (1994), and toured between 1992 and 1998. Their final performance occurred in 2010 at the High Voltage Festival in London to commemorate the band’s 40th anniversary. Emerson and Lake died in 2016, leaving Palmer as the only surviving band member.
In 2022, Palmer and his manager developed and launched the show initially as THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER show, again with the full cooperation and involvement of both the Keith Emerson and Greg Lake estates. The show has been re-branded for 2025 as AN EVENING WITH EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER.
The Newton Theatre was founded in 1924. It is a beautifully restored 605 seat performing arts center in the heart of Sussex County, presenting diverse programming, including world-renowned music acts, comedians, family productions, holiday shows and much more.
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This Week in Theatre: Previews for Plays Taking Place December 31, 2024 to January 7, 2025
originally published: 12/31/2024
Here are previews of plays taking place from December 31, 2024 to January 7, 2025 including a look at productions currently being presented and those coming soon. New Jersey Stage covers Equity, community, college, and high school theatre. Check back every week for the weekly theatre preview. Click on the title to go to the full preview. Jump to Event Previews, Coming Soon.
Send press releases to info@newjerseystage.com to have your events previewed at New Jersey Stage. There is no cost for preview articles. Featured listings are found in the NJ Stage calendar, reserved for advertisers, and provided with individual event pages for every performance. Event pages are also available for $10 per event (multiple performances count as a single event). Event pages are also included with every banner ad purchase. Banner ads run from $50-$100 for a full month of coverage.
EVENT PREVIEWS
“ANNIE” returns to New York City for the First Time in a Decade (NEW YORK, NY) — Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment), Carolyn Rossi Copeland Productions, Inc. and Crossroads Live North America recently announced full casting for the limited engagement of iconic Tony Award-winning musical ANNIE at The Theater at Madison Square Garden which runs from December 4, 2024 through January 5, 2025. This run marks the return of ANNIE to New York City for the first time in a decade.
Luna Stage’s “Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library” Gets A New 5 Week Run Off Broadway (NEW YORK, NY) — Congrats to Luna Stage! Due to critical acclaim and an incredible run of sold out performances at 59E59 Theaters, Luna Stage’s New York premiere of Jenny Lyn Bader’s Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library, directed by Ari Laura Kreith, is extending and moving to Off-Broadway’s WP Theater for a limited five-week engagement, December 10, 2024 – January 12, 2025.
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Playhouse 22 presents “American Son” – a Play that Raises Questions about Race, Parenting, and Justice (EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ) — Start off the new year with “American Son”, a drama by Christopher Demos-Brown and directed by Mimi B. Francis at Playhouse 22 that runs weekends from January 3-12, 2025. A play about an estranged bi-racial couple that must confront their feelings about race and bias after their son is detained by the local police following a traffic stop incident. Their disparate histories and backgrounds inform their assumptions as they try to find out what happened to their son.
COMING SOON
Next episode of “Gemstones” A Vivid Stage original series comes in January (SUMMIT, NJ) — Vivid Stage is celebrating its 30th Anniversary season, marking decades of bringing contemporary theatre to audiences in the state of New Jersey. Coming up is the third episode of the original series, Gemstones, by Phoebe Farber. The series blends the best storytelling qualities of mainstage performances with the exhilarating fun of improv. Episode 4 runs Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 2:00pm and Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 8:00pm.
American Theater Group’s Monday Night Play Reading Series presents “Mother’s Day” by Pandora Scooter (RAHWAY, NJ) — American Theater Group (ATG) will present the premiere reading of Pandora Scooter’s new 2-person drama Mother’s Day as part of its free Monday Night Play Reading Series on January 13, 2025 at Hamilton Stage in Rahway. The reading begins at 7:00pm.
George Street Playhouse presents “SMALL” (NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) — George Street Playhouse presents SMALL from January 14 through February 2, 2025. This is a Penguin Rep Theatre production written and performed by Robert Montano (The Steel Man), and directed by Jessi D. Hill (Daniel’s Husband). From the racetrack to the stage, Robert Montano shares his extraordinary true story of resilience and reinvention through the highs and lows of an unconventional life.
North Star Theater Company presents “Little Women” at Dover Little Theatre in January (DOVER, NJ) — North Star Theater Company invites audiences to experience the enduring charm of Little Women by Kate Hamill, adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel. This heartfelt and dynamic production will run for two weekends, January 17-19, 2025 and January 24–26, 2025, at Dover Little Theatre.
Algonquin Arts Theatre Announces Casting and Creative Team for “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown” (MANASQUAN, NJ) — Algonquin Arts Theatre presents its January musical, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown from January 18-26, 2025. Rediscover the magic of childhood with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally and the rest of the gang. The musical brings to life the timeless stories that have captured the hearts of audiences for generations.
Paper Mill Playhouse presents “Mystic Pizza” – A New Musical based on the classic film (MILLBURN, NJ) — Paper Mill Playhouse presents Mystic Pizza – a new musical based on the 1988 movie which starred Julia Roberts – from January 29 through February 23, 2025. Mystic Pizza is a new musical about three working-class girls who navigate the complexities of life, love and family in a small-town pizza joint.
Murder Mystery Co. presents “Till Death Do Us Part: Murder Mystery Dessert Theater” at Brookdale PAC (LINCROFT, NJ) — Brookdale Community College is set to host an unforgettable evening of mystery, mayhem, and merriment as the Murder Mystery Co. presents Till Death Do Us Part: Murder Mystery Dessert Theater on February 7, 2025 at 8:00pm. This thrilling event invites guests to indulge in delightful desserts, sip coffee or tea, and immerse themselves in an intriguing whodunnit.
NJPAC presents Insidious “The Further You Fear” Reimagined as an Immersive Stage Show (NEWARK, NJ) — One of the most successful horror film franchises of all time is being reimagined as an immersive theatrical stage experience. Insidious: The Further You Fear comes to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 7:30pm.
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Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
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Vivid Stage presents “Gemstones” by Phoebe Farber
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 2:00pm Oakes Center 120 Morris Avenue, Summit, NJ 07901 category: theatre
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Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts Presents Disney’s NEWSIES the Musical
Thursday, January 09, 2025 @ 7:00pm Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: theatre
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It wasn’t a linear path to success for Jacob Markstrom, who struggled to find his footing with the New Jersey Devils. Despite a shaky start, he’s rebounded very nicely to now become the sixth-best goalie in the league with plus-11.8 goals saved above expected (GSAx – via MoneyPuck).
His .914 save percentage (SV%) is ninth among 50 eligible goalies (min. 10 games played) and his 2.11 goals-against average (GAA) ranks second. He’s come up with some huge saves in key moments, most recently against the Carolina Hurricanes where he stopped 3.99 goals above expected, one of the best single-game marks for an NHL goalie this season.
In his last ten games, he’s 9-0-1 with a .933 SV% and 1.39 GAA. Timo Meier spoke to The Hockey Writers (THW) about Markstrom’s recent surge, “He’s been making key saves for us all season so far…Those saves at special times could help you a lot. We love playing in front of him. He’s playing unbelievable hockey right now, and it’s awesome.”
Earlier in the season, Markstrom told THW that his comfort level with the defense, in Keefe’s system, had been growing with each passing game. Based on the numbers, it’s hard to imagine he’s not fully comfortable now.
With how dominant the Devils’ defense has been this season, it’s sometimes hard for a goalie to stay locked in. Head coach Sheldon Keefe added, “You know, from a goalie’s perspective, I mean (as a team) keeping chances down are important, but keeping shots down is not ideal for a goalie. It doesn’t (give) you a lot of work, you don’t get a lot of those free and easy touches to get comfortable and confident in the game, and it starts to mess with your save percentage…all these things are challenging for a goaltender. But he’s dialed in. When we (made) some mistakes…he had to track the puck. He had to be good for us. I feel like it’s come for him.”
In this ten-game surge from Markstrom, the Devils have given up just 20.9 shots per game. Despite that, he’s still had to face 55 high-danger shots against, but he’s given up just four goals (via Natural Stat Trick). That’s a high-danger save percentage (HDSV%) of .927 – for contrast, the average goalie is around .800. In fact, for the whole season, Markstrom’s .881 HDSV% is tied for first among eligible goalies, alongside Joseph Woll of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
After Markstrom’s home win against the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday (Dec. 27), Luke Hughes added, “He’s been great for us. He’s very easy to play with and an awesome guy.”
Team captain Nico Hischier said, “He’s made some unbelievable saves. He’s been so good for us the whole year and he proved it again tonight…especially Grade A chances, Marky saved our asses tonight.”
It may have taken a little to settle in, but the numbers (and comments) show that Markstrom has been the number one goalie that Devils fans were dying for in seasons past.
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As the calendar is set to turn to 2025, there are plenty of things to have a look at for the future of each NHL team. While many have their resolutions, traditions, expectations, and more, there is one burning question that every NHL team is facing in the upcoming year.
Anaheim Ducks: What Happens With Zegras?
There have been plenty of rumors surrounding their young center, Trevor Zegras, for a while now. With some believing that Zegras isn’t fit for a team built by a manager like Pat Verbeek, and others believing they would be foolish for giving up on a player with so much potential, there is a lot of contemplating on what to do next.
On one hand, the young crop of players the Ducks have in their system, trading one away who could fetch a decent return isn’t the worst thing in the world. Everybody knows that Zegras has a ton of skill, and if he can put everything together, could lead the way for the forward group in Anaheim, helping them to get out of the rebuild.
The counterpoint would be that between injuries, his contractual hold-out, and his playstyle potentially not being a fit for the Ducks future, it could be a good time to move on. Time will tell where this ends up, but for now, he just needs to stay healthy and look to return to the 60+ points he has had before.
Boston Bruins: Can We Re-Gain Our Offensive Touch?
Through the first half of the 2024-25 season, the Boston Bruins have struggled to score goals. Of course, David Pastrnak is doing well, as expected, and Brad Marchand is doing alright for himself, too. Outside of them, 38 games into the season, the Bruins don’t have any other players who have reached 20 points yet.
To put that into perspective, the San Jose Sharks, who are in second-last in the league, have six players with over 20 points. Yes, the Bruins are doing fine in the standings and play a good defensive game as always, but the inability to score goals needs to be solved.
After signing Elias Lindholm, and moving forward with Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha as members of their core, the hope was that they could generate more offense than they have been, and that hasn’t been the case.
Buffalo Sabres: How Long Will Kevyn Adams Be In Control?
The Buffalo Sabres faced a lot of scrutiny over the offseason as they entered the summer with a lot of cap space, and didn’t do much with it. They bought out Jeff Skinner, acquired Ryan MacLeod and Beck Malenstyn, and signed Sam Lafferty, Nicolas Aube-Kubel, and Jason Zucker. A lot of fans were disappointed with the last of change to the roster, and while each of those players can be used well in certain roles, they aren’t solving any of the problems that the Sabres had.
General Manager Kevyn Adams of the Buffalo Sabres, 2020 NHL Draft (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images)
Kevyn Adams has struggled to get the team over the hump, and after a recent 13-game skid, Sabres owner Terry Pegula addressed the team and said that the answer is inside the room, meaning a major move likely isn’t coming. Adams has had a long leash and hasn’t fixed the major issues that the Sabres have, so how long is long enough?
Calgary Flames: To Sell, or Not To Sell?
Getting caught in the murky middle of the NHL is one of the worst places to be. The Calgary Flames are in that area right now. They have too many good players to bottom out and earn a high draft pick, but aren’t good enough to push for the playoffs, and even if they do make the playoffs, they likely aren’t good enough to be a true threat.
Most fans are looking to see the Flames sell off assets and go for a high pick. There are a lot of stipulations to the 2025 first-round pick that the Flames sent to the Montreal Canadiens in the Sean Monahan deal, but if they finish with a top-10 pick, odds are is that they end up keeping it, which is the best-case scenario for them.
Carolina Hurricanes: Can We Make A Cup Run?
There has been a lot of playoff success for the Carolina Hurricanes over the past six seasons, depending on who you ask. Most teams in the NHL would be more than happy to have the amount of series wins as the Hurricanes in that span, but for the club, it hasn’t been enough.
The Hurricanes have been to the second round plenty of times, and the conference final a few times, too. They haven’t been able to get over that hump, but last season, general manager (GM) Don Waddell went all-in for the first time to that extent, and it didn’t work as well as hoped. Now that Eric Tulsky has taken over, will he have a similar mindset of not selling the future for now, or will he see the potential in this roster and reward them by making a big addition prior to the playoffs?
Chicago Blackhawks: What Is Kyle Davidson’s Offseason Plan?
In the 2024 offseason, Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson opted to try and accelerate the rebuild by adding some quality wingers to play alongside his star center, Connor Bedard. With the additions of Teuvo Teravainen, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Taylor Hall in the lineup again, there was hope that the offense would take another step. That hasn’t happened, so now what?
The Blackhawks gave out a good amount of money in the offseason, and while most contracts were reasonable, and the Blackhawks could have upwards of $30 million in cap space this offseason, how does Davidson move forward with that?
Colorado Avalanche: Will Mikko Rantanen Return to the Avalanche?
One of the biggest pending unrestricted free agents (UFA) this offseason is superstar winger Mikko Rantanen. With back-to-back 100+-point seasons and is on track for a third one with 53 points in 37 games, he is going to command a lot of money. Some reports suggest that he could look for as high as $14 million, will the Colorado Avalanche be able to figure that out, or will they let him walk and add more depth in lieu of his absence?
Looking at the injuries that they have dealt with this season, the fact that they are as high in the standings as they are is a miracle, and part of that is because of Rantanen. So, do they look at that and say there is no way we let him go, or use it to make the rest of their roster stronger and have better depth in case that happens again?
Columbus Blue Jackets: Is This Just The Beginning for Zach Werenski?
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Weresnki has been one of the best defensemen in the NHL this season. With 11 goals and 39 points in 37 games, Werenksi is second on the team in scoring, and playing over 26 minutes per night. Now, offensive play is certainly what gets your name into the Norris Trophy conversation, but his defensive play has been excellent and he is a huge reason as to how the Blue Jackets have taken a step forward and currently sit just four points out of a playoff spot.
So the question is, is this going to be a regular thing for Weresnki like we all knew was possible, or is he going to go back to his normal, yet still impressive, 45-point self?
Dallas Stars: Who Replaces Tyler Seguin?
Earlier in the season it was announced that Tyler Seguin would miss a significant amount of time, and wouldn’t be back until the playoffs start. He is an important part of the team and was having a great start to the season, but the Stars are doing just fine without him still. When a player misses the rest of the regular season, their salary cap hit goes onto long-term injured reserve, and with that, the Stars have $9.5 million extra to play with this season.
That money can go a very long way in the regular season, and with retention, accrued cap space, and other factors, they can add a ton to their roster. So the question for them is what to do with that money?
Detroit Red Wings: Has The Yzerplan Failed?
Since taking over as the Detroit Red Wings GM, Steve Yzerman has added a lot of young talent to the team, including Moritz Seider, Lucas Raymond, Simon Edvinsson, and others. He has also brought in Alex DeBrincat, Andrew Copp, J.T. Compher, and other impactful players. However, none of that seems to be translating to success. In Yzerman’s five full seasons as the GM, the club hasn’t finished higher than fifth in the Atlantic Division and is on track to be a bottom-three team in that group yet again.
Steve Yzerman, Detroit Red Wings (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
They came so close to a playoff spot last season, but close doesn’t matter. It has been eight seasons, soon to be nine, without the playoffs for Detroit, and many fans are losing faith in Yzerman’s Yzerplan. Has the rebuild failed? Is it time to look for a new GM?
Edmonton Oilers: Can We Do Better Than Last Season?
It is hard to do much better than reaching Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, but the Edmonton Oilers are gunning to do just that. Now, the Oilers have had their taste of the Stanley Cup, but are still looking to win it. That is the only thing that matters, and with some improvements over the offseason and the early parts of the regular season, there is a strong chance they can make it back, but can they win it this year?
Florida Panthers: Will Ekblad or Bennett Be Re-Signed?
Based on the on-ice performance, there are not many questions to be had for the Florida Panthers. They have made it to the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons and won last year. They are doing great this season, and everything is going just about as well as they could be.
When a team has this much success in a short span, it is hard to keep the team together and repeat the success. We saw the Tampa Bay Lightning, moving on from Yanni Gourde, Barclay Goodrow, Blake Coleman, Ryan McDonough (briefly), and others. With the Panthers, they already lost Brandon Montour, Radko Gudas, and other depth players, and this season, Aaron Ekblad and Sam Bennett, two key pieces of their lineup, are pending UFA’s and could be elsewhere by next season.
LA Kings: Do We Have To Play The Oilers Again?
As it sits right now, the LA Kings and the Oilers are second and third in the Pacific Division. Anything can happen, but right now they aren’t close to catching first place, though they aren’t far ahead of a wildcard position. There is a strong chance that these two teams will face off for the fourth season in a row in the first round. Of course, the Oilers have won each of the last three, and it is becoming a recurring nightmare for the Kings.
Minnesota Wild: What Could We Do With Even More Cap Space?
The Minnesota Wild are one of the best teams in the NHL. They are getting great goaltending, Kirill Kaprizov is in the running for the Hart Trophy, and the defense is as strong as ever. Imagine a hypothetical world where a team could be this good while having a nearly $15 million disadvantage? Well, it isn’t a hypothetical. The buyout penalty for Zach Parise and Ryan Suter are strapping the Wild still, but this offseason, the penalty will be reduced to a combined $1.66 million, which is $13 million more than they have now.
While it won’t help this season, the Wild could be in a fantastic position to add to a great team already. Sure, Kaprizov needs an extension this offseason, and some young players are working their way into big payday territory, but those are all manageable. The Wild could have an extremely interesting offseason.
Montreal Canadiens: Is Patrik Laine Our Savior?
The Montreal Canadiens acquired Patrik Laine in the offseason and was unfortunately injured in the preseason before ever getting to officially lace up for the Canadiens. The Canadiens were struggling heavily to start the season, but with Laine in the lineup, they have a record of 8-4-0, and Laine not only leads his team in goals during that span, but also caught up to the rest of the league in powerplay goals as he is tied for third in the league with eight powerplay goals in just 12 games, roughly 25 games behind the rest of the league.
The Canadiens aren’t used to being a bad team. Having Laine being this impactful and helping turn the team around is great news, though they may not be ready for that big step yet, it will be soon.
Nashville Predators: Can We Go See A U2 Concert Or Something?
Last season, the Nashville Predators were struggling to get close to a playoff spot, but after a disappointing stretch of games, GM Barry Trotz canceled a team event, a trip to a U2 concert while in Vegas. After that, the Predators went on an unreal run and made the playoffs. This year, things have been even more disappointing than the stretch leading up to the concert, even more so because they added some significant pieces in the offseason, like Jonathan Marchessault and Steven Stamkos.
While the funny thing to say is that this team needs another U2 concert canceled, they really do need some added motivation. Trotz has been tinkering with the lineup, and making the team different, but the results are staying the same. There is a ton of potential with this team, but they just need to figure out how to play for each other.
New Jersey Devils: Are We The Best Team in the NHL?
At the time of writing, the New Jersey Devils are third in the standings and have one of the most complete lineups in the league. Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, and Jesper Bratt have been all playing superstar-caliber hockey, and on the back end, Brenden Dillon, Brett Pesce, and Jonathan Kovacevic have complimented the other three defensemen the Devils already had very well. Of course, Jacob Markstrom’s addition has been excellent too.
There isn’t much to complain about with this Devils team, and after missing the playoffs last season, they are so back, and look like they could truly contend for the Stanley Cup.
New York Islanders: Will Lou Lamoriello Ever Retire?
While GM Lou Lamoriello has done a decent job of keeping the New York Islanders in the playoff conversation, and has taken them to the Eastern Conference Final a few times, things are starting to go south for the club, and their 82-year-old GM hasn’t been able to make the changes needed to keep this team above water. They are to the point now that there are serious talks about this team becoming sellers, and with great players like Mat Barzal, Noah Dobson, and Ilya Sorokin, it feels like a waste of potential.
New York Rangers: When Will This Season End?
The biggest question for the New York Rangers is about when the season ends. The reigning Presidents’ Trophy winners have had one of the more chaotic seasons in recent memory, which includes trading their captain after threatening to waive him, scratching and having trade talks about one of your top goal-scorers in Chris Kreider, Mika Zibanejad’s struggles, and so on…
There is still a fair chance the Rangers make it into the playoffs, and could even do well there. Unless they win the Stanley Cup, this will be a season to forget with all of the chaos.
Ottawa Senators: Will We Finally Make The Playoffs?
For the first time since 2016-17, the Ottawa Senators hold a playoff spot in Decemeber. It has been a somber seven years in Ottawa, and after major acquisitions like Alex DeBrincat and Jakob Chychrun failed, new GM Steve Staios seems to have finally brought the right pieces in, which includes head coach Travis Green.
The Senators have been helped by Linus Ullmark’s outstanding performances as of late, and while he is injured for what is expected to be a short time, this team finally looks like they are ready to be the first of the four rebuilds in the Atlantic Division to make the playoffs.
Philadelphia Flyers: Who Will Michkov’s Center Be?
The emergence of Matvei Michkov has been outstanding, and he is in the running for the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie, but one big question surrounding him, literally and figuratively, will be who is going to be his center partner moving forward?
Travis Konecny and Matvei Michkov celebrate a goal for the Philadelphia Flyers (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
For most of this season, Michkov has spent time with Sean Couturier as his center. While Couturier was once an elite two-way center, he isn’t the same anymore. His point totals aren’t what they once were and while he is still good defensively, he is much better suited as a second or third-line center. So, will GM Danny Briere go out and get Michkov a true number-one center this offseason?
Pittsburgh Penguins: Can Kyle Dubas Save Sidney Crosby From Misery?
The Pittsburgh Penguins have been slowly heading downhill for a number of years now, but the three core members of the legendary run the Penguins had still remain, being Kris Letang, Evgeni Malkin, and of course, Sidney Crosby. The extension Crosby signed signified that he isn’t willing to give up on a team that clearly needs to start a teardown, but it seems that GM Kyle Dubas is committed to saving Crosby and the team from a miserable few seasons as bottom-feeders.
The Penguins are in contention for a playoff spot, which is something not everybody had predicted, and Crosby is going to have another chance to push for the playoffs, but will the Penguins be good enough to make any real noise even if they get in?
San Jose Sharks: Can We Take A Big Step Next Season?
The San Jose Sharks have struck gold. With any first-overall pick, you are expecting a great player, but Macklin Celebrini may have advanced the rebuild by a few seasons on his own. He has been much better than anybody had anticipated, and with the strong support from players like Mikael Granlund, William Eklund, Jake Walman, and Tyler Toffoli, there is a good chance that the Sharks GM Mike Grier takes the opportunity to try and take a big step next season by weaponizing the $35+ million in cap space they have for next season.
Seattle Kraken: Can Kaapo Kakko Be Better Here than in New York?
It isn’t often you get to acquire a 23-year-old second-overall pick for a price as low as the Seattle Kraken acquired Kaapo Kakko for. Hindsight always helps when it comes to evaluating draft picks, but Kakko was in serious conversations to be picked first over Jack Hughes. There is talent there, and Kakko has proven to be good on the powerplay when given the chance, and his strong defensive play is already present. A big opportunity for Kakko to turn his career around is here, and Seattle will give him every opportunity to break out into a true star as everyone expected him to be.
St. Louis Blues: Are We Going to See A Rebuild Or What?
After last season, things were pointing toward a rebuild for the St. Louis Blues. Since that was the general idea, GM Doug Armstrong has offer-sheeted Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg, and acquired Cam Fowler. Now, Brogerg and Holloway make the team younger and better, which is a good thing, but as mentioned with the Flames, the murky middle is a scary place.
Acquiring Fowler makes sense if the team was good enough to be dangerous, but they are still more likely to miss the playoff than they are to make the playoffs. A rebuild would make sense at this point, but only time will tell which direction Armstrong takes this team in.
Tampa Bay Lightning: Can Nikita Kucherov Win More Hardware?
The Tampa Bay Lightning have had their magic, with two Stanley Cup’s and multiple other Final trips, so wishing for more is just greedy.
Yes, every team always wants more, and players always want more. The same goes with Nikita Kucherov. While he would probably never tell you he would love to win an award based on all of the other media conferences and All-Star appearances he has had, he is in the running for another Art Ross and Hart Trophy. Will he win more?
Toronto Maple Leafs: Which Goalie Starts in Game 1 of the Playoffs?
The Toronto Maple Leafs entered the season with Anthony Stolarz and Joesph Woll as their tandem, and while both goalies have been good over the past few seasons, it was a big ask for the two of them to split the crease. Well, they didn’t take long to establish themselves as one of the best duo’s in the NHL, and the only question now is which one will start the playoffs for the Maple Leafs?
Anthony Stolarz, Toronto Maple Leafs (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Both goalies have been outstanding. The Leafs seem to play better in front of Woll, while Stolarz faces more shots and high danger chances per game. At this point, neither goalie has taken a step back to make it clear for head coach Craig Berube to choose, but it will be an interesting storyline to follow.
Utah HC: Can We Make the Playoffs in Year 1?
The Utah Hockey Club, who had taken the roster and prospects from the Arizona Coyotes, are in their first year, and while outside of the location, nothing on paper has changed, the vibes around the players and fanbase has greatly improved, and this team is in a position to challenge for a wildcard spot in the playoffs. Their owner, Ryan Smith, has been fantastic at embracing the hockey team and making Utah love the team. Seeing them make the playoffs would be a great thing to see.
Vancouver Canucks: When Will The Drama Ever End?
Over the past few seasons, the Vancouver Canucks have dealt with a lot of drama, probably more than anyone else. From the whole Bruce Boudreau fiasco, to J.T Miller trade rumors, and now the reported tension between Miller and Elias Pettersson. At this point, all Canucks fans want is a few quiet weeks, no drama, no rumors, no issues, just quiet.
Vegas Golden Knights: Can We Win One More Stanley Cup?
There has never been a team with a start to their franchise quite like the Vegas Golden Knights. A Stanley Cup, another Stanley Cup Final appearance, and lots of other playoff success, and the Golden Knights are still starving for another Cup. Most fans that have a strong disliking for the Golden Knights is truthfully out of spite, jealousy, and wish their team had that kind of success.
So, with all of the haters, why not another? The Golden Knights are still a fantastic team and could realistically challenge for another Cup.
Washington Capitals: How Long Until Ovechkin Catches Gretzky?
There was no other question to be had here. As this is written, Alexander Ovechkin is just 24 goals from tying Wayne Gretzky, and 25 away from taking the all-time record for goal-scoring. After missing five weeks with a broken leg, many figured that would end up being next season, but with two goals in his two games back in action, he remains at a ridiculous pace and has 17 goals in 20 games. The countdown is on.
Winnipeg Jets: Can We Be Impactful In The Playoffs Again?
The 2017-18 playoffs was a magical time for Winnipeg Jets fans, and there was some hope that they would be able to see that again last season. Things didn’t work out that way, but this season, the Jets are the top team in the league, and have a very balanced roster and have hopefully learned from their mistakes last season.
With those 32 questions out of the way, what are some others that need to be answered in 2025? Leave a comment down below with the biggest question needing a resolution for your favorite team.
In the last home game of 2024, the Carolina Hurricanes hosted the New Jersey Devils for their final matchup of the regular season on Saturday, Dec. 28. After losing the night before 4-2 in Newark, the Hurricanes were looking to get some revenge of their own in familiar confines of Lenovo Center. When the final horn sounded, the revenge was returned as they dominated the Devils in a 5-2 win that saw four unanswered goals in the third period.
Game Recap
While there was no scoring in the first period, the second period saw many chances for both sides. The Devils got a lead under three minutes into the period as Paul Cotter took advantage of a Jesperi Kotkaniemi turnover in the neutral zone and beat Dustin Tokarski over his right leg. It was a brutal turnover by Kotkaniemi who blew a tire, which led to the giveaway. As the period went on, the Hurricanes threw shot after shot at Jake Allen but could not get one by him.
However, with under 30 seconds left into the middle frame, Dmitry Orlov’s blast of a one-timer went off Allen’s arm and into the net to make it a 1-1 game very late in the period. It was a huge goal that set up a monumental third period with plenty of goals and playoff-like feistiness.
Dmitry Orlov, Carolina Hurricanes (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)
The third period saw a combined five goals, the last four by the Hurricanes unanswered. Ondrej Palat was able to get space from Brent Burns on the backdoor and got a clean feed by Jesper Bratt to make it a 2-1 Devils lead just over a minute into the third period. However, the Devils’ lead would not last long as Sebastian Aho scored 51 seconds later with some puck luck to re-tie the game back up 2-2, and it squeezed through Allen between his body and right arm.
Just over halfway into the third period, rookie Jackson Blake scores his eighth of the season with some great hand-eye coordination to deflect a Kotkaniemi shot into the goal to give the Hurricanes their first lead of the game. Special teams played huge in the game for Carolina as they killed off both of their penalties and went 1-for-3 on the power play.
Almost two minutes later, the Hurricanes got an insurance goal from Jack Roslovic for what was his team-leading 15th goal of the season after a great saucer pass from Seth Jarvis. It was not long before Roslovic added his second of the night as four minutes later he ended up scoring on the Devils’ empty net to secure the 5-2 win in a four-goal onslaught by the Hurricanes.
Roslovic had a three-point night (two goals and one assist) along with Jarvis (three assists), and Aho (a goal and assist). Tokarski finished the night stopping 21 of 23 shots faced. Carolina is now 22-13-1 after their last home win of 2024.
It was a milestone night for head coach Rod Brind’Amour who recorded his 300th regular season win as Hurricanes coach. The fastest to ever do so in 488 games behind the bench.
One Last Game Before 2025
The Hurricanes’ last game in 2024 will be on New Year’s Eve in Columbus against the Blue Jackets. The puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. Eastern for another Metropolitan Division showdown. Meanwhile, the Devils travel to Southern California to take on the Anaheim Ducks for an 8 p.m. Eastern puck drop for their final game of 2024.
The Biden-Harris administration announced a series of measures to address homelessness across the country, including updating regulations that streamline the repurposing of surplus federal properties for affordable housing and homelessness services, making resources available to a select number of states under the second cohort of the Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and awarding approximately $39.8 million to support veterans through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program.
“These announcements reflect HUD’s unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness and advancing innovative solutions,” said HUD Agency Head, Adrianne Todman. “By expanding partnerships, repurposing federal properties, and investing in programs like HUD-VASH, we are making meaningful progress toward our shared goal of ending homelessness and building stronger, more equitable communities.”
In collaboration with HHS, HUD announced an opportunity for states to apply to participate in a second cohort of the Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator. The program will provide individualized technical assistance to help states reduce homelessness by addressing health-related social needs, such as services that connect older adults and people with disabilities to affordable, accessible housing. The Accelerator also will facilitate sharing of lessons learned and promising practices for improving collaboration and coordination across the housing and healthcare sectors to optimize resources and close resource gaps, align state and local policies, deliver more integrated and seamless services, and ultimately help more people secure and maintain stable housing.
“Homeless people need more than temporary shelter. They must have access to a comprehensive set of services that connects them to housing they can afford and maintain over the long term. Title V will allow the federal government to use empty federal properties to house homeless people and provide these vital services. The Housing and Services Partnership Accelerator will help local program administrators better serve older adults and people with disabilities by providing technical assistance and sharing lessons learned across sectors,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “As USICH’s chair, I am proud of these groundbreaking efforts to use excess federal properties to help those who have lost it all get back on their feet.”
In partnership with the General Services Administration (GSA) and HHS, HUD streamlined the use of surplus, unutilized, and underutilized federal properties in support of people experiencing homelessness. Currently, over 140 properties across the country have been repurposed, and today’s announcement will increase the number of properties that can be used to assist Americans facing homelessness.
“This rule streamlines the assessment of federal properties for potential use in addressing homelessness and makes it easier for these properties to get into the hands of state and local governments and nonprofits that are working to address this challenge,” said Katy Kale, GSA Deputy Administrator and U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness representative.
Lastly, HUD will award approximately $39.8 million in additional funding through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, which offers rental assistance and supportive services to veterans experiencing homelessness. As of the end of Fiscal Year 2024, HUD has connected nearly 90,000 veteran households to stable, rental homes and services through VA health centers.
In the wake of the holiday season, filled with its usual rush of food, family and festivities, many New Jerseyans (including our editors) want nothing more than to take some time for themselves and escape the hustle-and-bustle routine of everyday life.
The dawn of a new year is the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway, whether in the coming weeks or a few months down the road. Luckily, there so many great New Jersey getaway destinations that don’t require a trip out of state.
New Jersey Monthly has put together eight itineraries, complete with our recommendations for activities, restaurants and hotels. Princeton, Montclair, Lambertville and Cape May all have fantastic downtowns with culture, shopping, restaurants and more. A combined Jersey City and Hoboken weekend is thrilling for the city lover.
If you prefer a resort, the luxurious Pendry Natirar resort—abutting Natirar Park, a 411-acre public green space—opened this fall. Spa treatments, hikes and even a cooking class could be on tap. Or relax at NJM favorite Crystal Springs, whether you’re looking to spend the weekend with a significant other, the kids or a pal.
Enjoy your travels!
Photo: Courtesy of Visit Atlantic City
There are some towns that need no introduction, and Atlantic City is one of them. It is well known as the birthplace of the Boardwalk, the longtime venue of the Miss America competition, and was the street-name inspiration for the board game Monopoly. And, of course, don’t forget to enjoy its stretch of the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic City was made for big rollers and big comebacks. READ MORE
Photo: Courtesy of Cape Resorts
This charming seaside resort town at the tip of southern New Jersey is known for its grand Victorian houses and beautiful beaches. In the off season, stroll along the pedestrian Washington Street Mall and peruse its shops and restaurants, or head to the Cape May Lighthouse for gorgeous views across the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Exit 0 feels like a different place and time when you arrive—people still get around on bicycles and spend afternoons whiling away the time on the porches of the picturesque and historic hotels and inns that dot this town. READ MORE
Photo: Courtesy of Crystal Springs Resort
This beautiful luxury resort of Crystal Springs, tucked in northern New Jersey, is the perfect weekend getaway if you’re looking for someplace that makes you feel like you’re really away, without actually leaving the state. Located in Hamburg along the edge of the Appalachian Mountains, just an hour from New York City, Crystal Springs has two hotels: the main Grand Cascades Lodge and, a few minutes away, the Mineral Springs Hotel. The resort boasts six top-rated golf courses, ten restaurants, two spas, and well-appointed guest rooms with gorgeous mountain views. This is the perfect spot for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or a girls’ weekend. READ MORE
Photo: Laura Moss
Bask in the glory of the Manhattan skyline while reveling in the many charms to be found on this side of the Hudson River. Jersey City sits under the watchful gaze of Lady Liberty, and Hoboken is suffused with the spirit of its most famous son, Frank Sinatra. These bustling cities boast wonderful strolls, sophisticated restaurants, scrappy sandwich institutions, and exciting live music and nightlife. READ MORE
Lambertville, a historic mill town on the Delaware River, has a bit of everything for the cold-weather visitor. There are cozy inns, top-rated restaurants, comfy coffee shops, stylish boutiques, art galleries, and a host of antique shops and markets. You can walk everywhere and enjoy river views on the D&R Canal State Park towpath and the charming, pedestrian-friendly bridges spanning the Delaware. READ MORE
Photo: Kate Albright
Long a haven for artists, actors, musicians and writers, Montclair’s coolness quotient got a post-pandemic boost when young outer-borough residents flocked to town. A new theater, art galleries, music venues, and dozens of new restaurants have joined the town’s already long list of dining and entertainment options, making it the perfect getaway for anyone looking for a fun, action-packed weekend. READ MORE
Photo: Courtesy of Pendry Natirar
If you’ve ever been to Ninety Acres restaurant in Peapack-Gladstone—a regular on New Jersey Monthly’s Best Restaurants list—you may have spied a historic stone mansion in the distance. A stellar example of Tudor-style architecture, the building was once a private home for a Moroccan royal. Today it has been masterfully re-envisioned as premier getaway destination that opened this past fall. READ MORE
Photo: John Emerson
For first-time visitors to Princeton, the centerpiece—its beautiful Ivy League college campus with rolling lawns and ivy-covered buildings—is exactly what you’d imagine this town to look like. Its quaint downtown, with a mixture of high-end stores (Polo Ralph Lauren, Barbour and Hermès) and middle-of-the-road shops (J.Crew and Faherty) and terrific restaurants, gives visitors plenty to do. There’s also history here, as well as natural beauty, architecture and fabulous art. READ MORE
Public Invited to Attend In-Person and Online Event
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners will convene for its annual reorganization meeting on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at 6 p.m., where Commissioner Tayfun Selen is slated to succeed Christine Myers as director, while Commissioner Stephen Shaw will continue serving as deputy director.
Commissioners Stephen H. Shaw, John Krickus, and Deborah Smith, who were re-elected in November to additional three-year terms, will take their oaths of office. Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, who also was re-elected in November, will be sworn in to her second five-year term.
The meeting will be held on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building at 10 Court St. in Morristown and will also be accessible for viewing via WebEx.
About the Reelected Commissioners
Stephen H. Shaw is entering his third term on the board. A former mayor and 12-year council member in Mountain Lakes, Shaw currently represents Morris County on the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority and was elected secretary of the NJTPA Board of Trustees in early 2024.
John Krickus will begin his fourth term as a commissioner. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Krickus previously served 12 years as mayor and committee member in Washington Township. He also has served as board director.
Deborah Smith, first elected in 2016, will also begin her fourth term. A longtime Denville council member, Smith served as council president for two years and led the Board of Commissioners as director during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The Board of County Commissioners is composed of seven members. In addition to Shaw, Krickus, Smith, Selen, and Myers, the board includes Commissioners Douglas R. Cabana and Thomas J. Mastrangelo.
About County Government
Morris County’s seven-member Board of County Commissioners is elected at-large to serve staggered three-year terms. The board oversees policies for six county departments, including Employee Resources, Finance, Human Services, Law & Public Safety, Public Works, and Information Technology. Day-to-day operations are managed by County Administrator Deena Leary, with each commissioner acting as a liaison to specific departments and areas of government.
The essential services provided by county government are those that either cannot appropriately be provided by the state or are beyond the scope or ability of local governments.
County government responsibilities are divided into two distinct types:
functions the county must perform as mandated by the state
permissive functions the county may carry out in compliance with state law
The mandatory areas of responsibility are:
Court facilities (New Jersey State runs court operations)
Law enforcement and the operation of a county jail
General assistance or welfare
Education
Construction and maintenance of county roads and bridges
Conducting elections
In addition to required services, Morris County government provides a variety of programs and services which benefit the entire county. County-level management and delivery of these services provides significant cost savings and efficiencies over duplicative services from municipality to municipality. This saves taxpayer dollars, while enhancing the quality of life for those living and working in the county.
It’s been awhile since the race for governor seemed so wide open.
Come next year, there will be no incumbent in the race and no big-money or obvious candidates with their party’s nomination all but secured.
If that is not enough, the apparent disappearance of the county line for both parties this June makes it seem even more wide open.
It may seem odd to think of the long and hot days of June in freezing and dark December, but time moves quickly. And the primary is just a bit more than five months away.
Let’s start with the Republicans, who are still on a high after Donald Trump’s win nationally and his better than normal showing in New Jersey.
Their glee may be understandable, but let’s remember that every election is its own entity.
In looking at the Republican field, here are the questions to be answered before June.
Just how much name recognition does Jack Ciattarelli have and how much will it help him?
Ciattarelli, who came very close to beating Phil Murphy in 2021, has never stopped running.
Everyone in politics knows that, but many people – even primary voters – do not follow politics everyday. It may seem strange, but Ciattarelli may still be an unknown candidate to some.
Jon Bramnick is convinced the Trump cult is not a majority in New Jersey – even among Republicans. Is he right?
What we do know is that Bramnick is the guy for Republicans not enamored of Trump. And he certainly seems like the best general election candidate.
I have heard Bill Spadea say more than once that Republicans should be pro-gun, pro-life and pro-Trump. So you know the votes he is looking for.
Spadea also enjoys criticizing the state’s Republican establishment, which means Ciattarelli and Bramnick. As noted, the 2021 gubernatorial race was within four points, but Spadea gives Ciattarelli no credit for that, contending at times that the race was not close at all.
While Spadea long appeared to have ardent Trump voters to himself, enter Mike Crispi.
The co-chair of the state’s America First Republicans says he may run for governor, and if he does not, there may be another America First candidate.
It’s hard to tell if he’s serious. Some of Crispi’s statements are a bit out there – like simply ending the state income tax and making the Giants become the New Jersey Giants. That’s a state issue?
Of more substance, Crispi has been attacking George Gilmore, the Ocean County GOP Chair and a Spadea supporter, for not showing Trump the respect he merits. Trump had pardoned Gilmore after his conviction on tax-related charges.
So, will Crispi really get in the race? And how many votes will he, or another America First candidate, take from Spadea?
What about the Dems?
In looking at the field from afar, you first have to look at Steve Fulop, the mayor of Jersey City. Fulop announced quite early and his website shows detailed positions on education, transportation and other key issues.
Issues mean something, don’t they? Fulop obviously thinks they do.
Unfortunately, so many voters, it seems, make decisions based more on personality and gut feeling than actual proposals.
Any look at the Democratic race needs to focus on both Reps. Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill, who represent congressional districts 5 and 11 respectively.
Both have been elected – and reelected – more than once in districts that used to be represented by Republicans, which, presumably, says something positive about their electability.
At the same time, state government is very different from Congress And harder?
Such problems as school funding, Mt. Laurel housing and high property taxes (a function of home rule) have been around seemingly forever. If they were easy to fix, it would have happened already So, can Gottheimer and Sherrill convince voters they know enough about the ins and outs of New Jersey government to run it?
Talk about persuasion, we now come to the three other major Democratic candidates. Each of them, it seems, has a central challenge.
Can Sean Spiller convince voters he is more than a candidate representing the New Jersey Education Association?
Can Ras Baraka win votes – a sufficient number of votes – outside of Newark?
And can Steve Sweeney do well in a race for governor despite having lost his state Senate seat a few years ago to a relative unknown?
The good news about all this as 2025 dawns is that nothing seems pre-ordained – in either party.
The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) is encouraging residents to reduce, reuse, and recycle this holiday season to help minimize the amount of trash heading to landfills.
By making simple choices about recycling and waste reduction, residents can help the environment during one of the busiest times of the year. To learn what materials are accepted in your town’s recycling program, check your municipal website, visit MCMUA.com, or download the Recycle Coach app.
Curbside Recycle Guidelines
Residents can recycle a variety of paper products and containers in their curbside bins if they are empty, clean, and dry:
Holiday paper items: Plain wrapping paper (no foil or glitter), gift boxes, gift bags, cards, envelopes, tissue paper, catalogs, and corrugated cardboard boxes.
Bottles and containers: Aluminum cans, glass bottles and jars, plastic containers coded 1 and 2, and steel/tin cans are allmandated to be recycled in Morris County.
Check your local program for additional recyclable items, such as aluminum trays, plastics coded 5, and aseptic cartons (e.g., eggnog or milk cartons). Plastic caps should be removed before recycling.
Items That Should NOT Be Recycled Curbside
Some holiday items cannot be recycled in your curbside bin:
Gift wrap with foil or glitter, cellophane, bows, ribbons, and cards or envelopes with glitter or batteries.
Most plastic packaging: Plastics numbered 3, 4, 6, or 7 and unmarked plastics are not recyclable.
Disposable items: Plates, utensils, cups, napkins, straws, and paper towels belong in the trash.
Food containers: Only recyclable if they are completely clean of food residue.
Special Recycling Guidelines
Certain items require special disposal methods to avoid hazards:
Tips to Reduce Holiday Waste
DIY Gifts and Decorations: Upcycle materials to create unique gifts and decorations. Choose cards and wrapping paper made from recycled content and avoid glitter or foil.
Don’t Bag Recyclables: Place items loose in your curbside bin.
Reduce Food Waste: Cook or order for the appropriate number of people and get creative with leftovers. Use online resources likeSavethefood.comfor recipes that minimize food waste.
Donate Surplus Food: Many supermarkets offer free turkeys or hams. If you don’t need them, consider donating to alocal food pantry. While every pantry has different donation needs, some of themost requested itemsat food banks are dairy products, fresh foods and vegetables, and lean proteins. However, it is always recommended that you check first to maximize contribution.
For more recycling guidelines and holiday tips, visit MCMUA.com or contact your local recycling coordinator.
Princeton-based Astound Broadband, a provider of Internet, Mobile, and TV services, recently announced that it received the Community Champions Award from America’s Communications Association (ACA) for the company’s Astound Community Connects initiative.
Featured in the December issue of Independent Communications News, this recognition cites Astound’s impactful partnership with Habitat for Humanity and its commitment to fostering equitable homeownership and building inclusive communities across the United States.
Astound broadband joined forces with Habitat for Humanity in April 2024 through the Home is the Key campaign, a nationwide initiative focused on increasing access to affordable housing.
As part of the partnership, Astound organized more than 40 employee volunteer events across the country, in addition to providing significant financial and in-kind support. These events enabled Astound employees to directly participate in building homes and supporting local communities in areas where Astound operates.
“The Community Champions Award is a reflection of our employees’ passionate dedication to the communities we serve,” Jim Holanda, CEO of Astound Broadband, said. “Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity has allowed us to make a real impact—promoting equity and providing more families with access to affordable housing. We’re inspired to continue this important work.”
As part of Astound’s Community Champions Award, ACA has donated $2,500 to Habitat for Humanity. ACA is an advocacy organization for independent broadband, video and communications providers. The ACA Community Champion Awards is an annual competition among ACA members to recognize community initiatives that provide helping hands to their neighbors and friends.
LAVALLETTE — The mayor and council recently honored three Lavallette police officers for their October successful lifesaving effort in response to a medical emergency call on Aug. 23.
At the Dec. 16 meeting of the Borough Council, Police Chief Christian LaCicero said that the officers, Ptl. Thomas Harrington, Ptl. Thomas Ruppert and Ptl. Michael Madera, had done an exemplary service to the community by aiding in the successful lifesaving efforts on a runner who had gone into cardiac arrest earlier in the year.
“In (August), a 52-year-old man was jogging on the boardwalk, when he collapsed and went into cardiac arrest,” said LaCicero. “A passerby called 911; another, who I believe is a nurse, jumped in and started doing CPR.”
“Our officers arrived within two minutes from the time of the 911 call until they began giving CPR and using their training experience and equipment,” said the chief. “They took over CPR using the defibrillator and the victim regained a pulse and was subsequently transported by the Lavallette First Aid Squad to the hospital — I have to give credit to the Lavallette First Aid Squad, they were on scene very quickly.”
Chief LaCicero continued to say that the reason the recognition was being made public so long after the incident was to ensure the recovery of the victim, Mark Girgus, who was present for the Dec. 16 council meeting.
“The reason we’re doing this in December, and not September, was because we wanted to make sure that the victim survived,” he said. “And I’m happy to announce that Mark Girgus is here with us tonight. I was in contact with Mark’s mother while he was receiving care, and he has been able to meet the people who called 911 and began CPR; tonight, he was able to meet the officers that ultimately saved his life.”
The chief explained that upon becoming chief, one of the things he wanted was to begin a tradition of honoring officers publicly for exceptional deeds and work, and that he was pleased to have a positive reason to honor them in light of Girgus’ recovery.
“When I took over as chief, one of the things we realized that we didn’t have was an awards program,” said LaCicero. “For years, guys have been doing exceptional work, and they get a pat on the back in the locker room, but no formal recognition for those works.”
“This is the first time we found something worthy of such recognition and I’m proud to be here to do it,” said the chief. “(Borough Administrator John O.) Bennett is not here tonight, but he was very supportive of this as well.”
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.
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A recent story in the Asbury Park Press quoted the Ocean County Sheriff as saying that drone reports have “decreased considerably.”
They had peaked over the weekend of Dec. 7 and 8, he said.
What this means is subject to interpretation, but here’s one observation – whoever was operating the drones must have had Christmas shopping to do.
That, naturally, would exclude drones coming from an “Iranian mothership.”
Yes, Republican Rep. Jeff Van Drew said that. And his GOP colleague Chris Smith also pointed to North Korea, China or Russia. Both raised those possibilities without any real evidence, mind you, as the mayhem over drones peaked about two week ago.
An interesting New York Times story on Christmas Day – admittedly not a high readership day – nonetheless attributed the reports to a contractor working at Picatinny Arsenal, Rockaway Township, who by chance saw a drone while sitting in his car near the base in mid-November. Since this was – and is – a military base, he reported his sighting to authorities.
Now we know what happened next.
Drone reports seemed to multiply every day, or rather, night.
Social media, as one would suspect, quickly became a sounding board for reports and, of course, all types of offbeat conspiracy tales.
We were being spied on.
Our enemies were up to no good.
Our government was up to no good.
Watch for the “dirty bomb.”
It wasn’t just social media and it wasn’t merely politicians like Van Drew and Smith.
Just about all elected officials from Phil Murphy on down demanded answers about the drones.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer held more than one press event about the drones and even put a page on his website for people to report what they are seeing. That was on Dec 16.
Now, as we have gotten to Christmas, sightings have dropped.
They can certainly pick up again, but nobody knows.
What we do know is that despite the hoopla, nothing untoward happened.
Which does bring up a rough parallel to the “War of the Worlds” spoof about Martians landing in New Jersey in 1938. Imagine if something similar occurred today in the age of social media. That would be scary.
Drones are not Martians, but as of now, a lot of the reaction seems a bit overblown.
Then again, a lot of this has to do with personal beliefs.
I saw a report about multiple drones – the size of SUVs – spotted over Roxbury Township, Morris County.
Hmm. I live in Roxbury and I have not seen any drones. Then again, I haven’t looked for any.
As stated, it’s all a matter of personal perspective.
Michigan-based C3 Industries, a leading multi-state cannabis company, announced the opening of High Profile Cannabis Shop Somerdale, joining High Profile of Lakehurst as the company’s second retail location in New Jersey and 31st nationwide.
High Profile Somerdale is located at 4 N. White Horse Pike, Somerdale, directly next to the Wawa, and features easy access to ample parking. The new dispensary is now open and serving cannabis consumers 21 and older in-store, via curbside pickup, and through convenient drive-thru and online pre-order services starting today. A grand opening celebration where shoppers can take advantage of additional deals and discounts will be on a future date to be announced in January of 2025.
“The opening of High Profile Somerdale is an important milestone in our continued expansion across New Jersey,” said Vishal Rungta, President and cofounder of C3 Industries. “With the establishment of this new location in southwestern Jersey, we are better able to serve the region and contribute to the growth of the state’s cannabis industry. We are thrilled to become an integral part of the Somerdale community and offer residents an outstanding cannabis shopping experience.”
Somerdale, New Jersey is known as the “The Crossroads of South Jersey,” and is nestled between the communities of Hadden Heights, Lawnside, and Cherry Hill Township. High Profile Somerdale is located on Rt. 30 (N. White Horse Pike) only 15 minutes from the Cherry Hill Mall, and only 27 minutes from Center City Philadelphia, High Profile Somerdale is strategically located to serve communities in South Jersey and surrounding areas. Somerdale is also the birthplace of 76ers legend, Daryl Dawkins as well as the hometown of Philadelphia Flyers radio announcer, Tim Saunders.
“High Profile Somerdale boosts our retail presence in New Jersey, enabling us to reach a wider customer base through our exceptional service, diverse product range, and competitive pricing,” added Ankur Rungta, CEO and cofounder of C3 Industries. “Our new location provides a welcoming environment for both new and experienced consumers to discover a wide selection of top products at great prices.”
The new Somerdale dispensary boasts a knowledgeable, friendly staff dedicated to providing personalized recommendations and educational insights to both seasoned cannabis enthusiasts and first-time consumers.
This December, the New Jersey Devils had a rock-solid performance. They began with an impressive 5-1 victory against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Their most recent game resulted in another victory against their division rivals, this time a 5-0 shutout at the Prudential Center that featured three power-play goals.
It’s no secret that the Devils have been on a hot streak. But what makes their success sustainable? The solution is simple: limit your opponent’s shots on goal. For the last seven games, the Devils have not allowed more than 20 shots on goal. And while this might not always result in a surefire victory, it certainly provides a better opportunity for the team to stay at the top of the Eastern Conference.
Defensive and Neutral Zone Productivity
The Devils have been an offensive powerhouse all season long, but defensive play is responsible for their recent surge. Strong puck possession across all three zones has effectively limited the opposing team’s scoring chances.
Their blue line turnaround began earlier this month when they faced the Seattle Kraken. The Devils recorded 36 shots on goal but limited the Kraken to only 19. Their domination was consistent across all three periods. The Devils recorded 64.71% of scoring chances for (SCF%) during the second period and 61.11 SCF% in the third.
Jesper Bratt and Dougie Hamilton Celebrate a Goal for the New Jersey Devils (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Keeping the opposing team’s shots on goal to a minimum has paid off because the Devils are currently on a two-game shutout streak. Against the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Rangers, the Devils only allowed 12 shots on goal per game. In their last nine games, the Devils are 6-3-0 when they allow 24 or fewer shots on goal.
The Devils have also gotten better at maintaining control in the neutral zone, which is something they struggled with last season. Based on data from NHL Edge, the team ranks in the 80th percentile for neutral zone time. General manager Tom Fitzgerald recently commended the team’s effectiveness at center ice, recognizing their increased effort. By maintaining a strong front in the neutral zone, the Devils are generating more scoring chances while also limiting turnovers and takeaways.
Siegenthaler & Kovacevic: Shutdown Pairing
All three of the Devils’ defensive pairings bring something different to the table and are successful in their own right. However, Jonas Siegenthaler and Johnathan Kovacevic have shown incredible defensive responsibility. They are effective at shutting down scoring chances and are a large reason why the Devils managed back-to-back shutouts.
Siegenthaler and Kovacevic have combined for 104 hits and blocked 113 shots. This pairing also has an expected 14.1 goals against (xGA), which is 7.2 goals less than the Brendan Dillon-Dougie Hamilton line. They have been phenomenal at preventing the other team from scoring so far this season. According to MoneyPuck, Siegenthaler and Kovacevic only allow 1.61 expected goals against every 60 minutes.
The Devils have also been heating up in terms of high-danger scoring opportunities, and this line is no exception. The Siegenthaler-Kovacevic pairing records 10.51 high-danger scoring chances per 60 minutes of play (HDCF/60) and is responsible for 61.33% of high-danger goals for (HDGF%). And in the midst of so many shots on goal and scoring chances, Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen record a 93.79 on-ice save percentage (SV%) when this defensive pairing plays together.
Siegenthaler and Kovacevic are a dangerous combination, preventing shots on goal at even strength, but they are just as effective when separated on the penalty kill. Having such a talented defensive combo has given the Devils both the confidence and the capability to have a strong performance across all three periods.
Star Forwards Adopt Defensive Mindset
The entire Devils’ roster is functioning with a shutdown mindset, including two of their star players. It begins in the faceoff circle, which is captain Nico Hischier’s specialty. He leads the NHL with 880 faceoffs taken and has a 55.3% success rate.
Hischier is also able to disrupt the opposing team’s scoring chances by drawing penalties, and his tally of 16 drawn penalties is the fourth-highest in the league. His 200-foot game, playmaking ability, and defensive awareness all explain why he leads the team with 17 goals.
Jack Hughes has also taken on a lot more defensive responsibility this season. He has been incredibly effective on the penalty kill and is currently having a career-high year in ice time when the Devils are down a man. Head coach Sheldon Keefe has deployed Hughes on the penalty kill in 36 games so far this season.
Nearly halfway through the 2024-25 season, Hughes has already recorded 16:46 ice time, which is four times the amount he played on the penalty kill last season. He even snagged his first shorthanded point earlier this month, with an assist on Brett Pesce’s goal against the Los Angeles Kings. With so much defensive awareness across the board, it’s no wonder the Devils are hardly allowing any shots on goal.
Devils’ Defensive Mindset Moving Forward
Overall, the Devils have found success by shutting down their opponents’ scoring chances in recent games. Limiting shots on goal has resulted in quite a few impressive victories, and allowing just 12 shots in a single game has bolstered their confidence. The team has definitely come a long way defensively as compared to last season. They might not always score the first goal, but the Devils have what it takes to stifle their opponents and come out on top.
The Makin Waves Song of the Week is “The Skin I’m In” by BLUES People, who will compete in The International Blues Challenge taking place from Jan. 7 to 11 in Memphis.
For the second year in a row, North Jersey-based BLUES People won the New Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge and will compete in the worldwide competition in Memphis again on Jan. 8.
To celebrate, the title track of their debut LP, “The Skin I’m In,” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.
As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “The Skin I’m In” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Dec. 27 on “Radio Jersey at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.
Last year, BLUES People were IBC semifinalists in Memphis. This year, they plan to win the whole thing, which takes place from Jan. 7 to 11.
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The band is comprised of singer-guitarist Kelton Cooper (Kool & the Gang/Lonnie Youngblood); bassist Mike Griot (Sue Foley/Michael Hill’s Blues Mob/Joanne Shaw Taylor/Ruf’s Blues Caravan); keyboardist Ron ThompsonBLUES (Hugh Masekela/Bo Diddley Jr./Blue Magic); and drummer Gene Lake (Henry Threadgill/David Sanborn/Josh Smith). All are esteemed session and side men with many more credits too numerous to mention.
BLUES People also will play New Year’s Eve and Feb. 15 at Shanghai Jazz in Madison; Feb. 1, Jamey’s House of Music, Lansdowne, Pa., and Feb. 6, The Bernie, Bernardsville.
For more about BLUES People, visit https://bluespeoplenj.com.
Mike also keeps busy as an event planner and producer with his company PWI Entertainment, whose next event is the Winter Edition of South Orange Performing Arts Center’s 2nd Annual South Orange International Blues Festival on Feb. 7. The theme of Women in Blues will feature Alexis P. Suter, Rae Simone, and Sue Foley for whom Mike has played bass.
Mike is an artist in residence and curator of Blues in the Loft at SOPAC. For more about PWI events, visit https://www.pwimedia.com.
Bob Makin has produced Makin Waves since 1988. Follow Makin Waves on Facebook and contact Bob at makinwaves64@yahoo.com.
New Jersey Stage is proud to be the home of Bob Makin’s Makin Waves column since 2017. His Song of the Week column comes out every Friday. He also writes an Album of the Month and Interview of the Month as well.
The 2025 Princeton Environmental Film Festival, a signature event hosted annually by the Princeton Public Library, is now accepting films for its 2025 festival. Filmmakers are invited to submit their documentary films, with a submission deadline of January 17, 2025. The festival, which has been a beloved tradition since its founding in 2006, will take place at the Sands Library Building, located at 65 Witherspoon St., Princeton, as well as virtually, continuing its commitment to providing wide accessibility to its programming.
A Platform for Environmental Stories
PEFF’s mission has always been to showcase exceptional documentary films that explore environmental sustainability from a diverse range of perspectives. From urgent issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss to innovative solutions and local conservation efforts, the festival offers a platform for filmmakers to share their powerful stories. Through the art of film, the festival helps to educate, inspire, and motivate action within the community.
Screenings at PEFF are free, and many films are accompanied by enriching Q&A sessions with the filmmakers themselves, as well as talks from invited experts and speakers. These sessions foster discussions that go beyond the screen, helping attendees to better understand the real-world impact of the issues presented in the films. It’s an opportunity for the community to engage directly with those who are leading the way in environmental storytelling and activism.
Multiplatform and Hybrid Experience
For the 2025 festival, PEFF continues to embrace a multiplatform approach, offering a blend of in-person and online screenings to reach a broader audience. Some films will be available exclusively in-person, while others will be accessible only online, with several available in both formats. This hybrid model allows the festival to offer flexibility to those unable to attend in person while maintaining its strong ties to the Princeton community.
Beyond the annual festival, PEFF also offers virtual screenings and special events throughout the year. These periodic offerings help to keep environmental issues at the forefront of public conversation, ensuring that the festival’s impact is felt year-round.
Engaging the Community
PEFF is more than just a film festival—it’s a community-driven initiative that emphasizes sustainable action. The festival regularly partners with local environmental organizations and initiatives to extend the reach of its programming and provide tangible ways for attendees to take part in sustainability efforts. Whether it’s through local conservation projects, sustainable living workshops, or environmental advocacy, PEFF gives its audience opportunities to act on what they’ve learned and to make a positive difference in their communities.
The festival organizers are also mindful of its own environmental impact, striving for sustainability in its operations. As the event grows, there is a concerted effort to expand its reach while staying true to its core mission of fostering local engagement and sustainability.
Save the Date
The official selections for the 2025 Princeton Environmental Film Festival will be announced in mid-March. With the submission deadline fast approaching, filmmakers still have time to be part of this impactful event that brings together powerful stories, thought-provoking discussions, and real-world calls to action.
For filmmakers and environmental advocates alike, PEFF is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase work, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the vital conversation about our planet’s future.
Submit your film by January 17, 2025, and join the growing movement of change-makers that the Princeton Environmental Film Festival has cultivated over the years. Whether you’re attending in person, watching online, or getting involved through related community events, PEFF is an essential destination for those passionate about sustainability and the environment.
For more information about the festival, click here. Click here to submit your film: 2025 Princeton Environmental Film Festival
Whippany-based MetLife Investment Management (MIM), the institutional asset management business of MetLife, Inc., has reached a definitive agreement to acquire PineBridge Investments, a global asset manager with approximately $100 billion in assets under management, from the Pacific Century Group. The transaction is comprised of $800 million in cash at closing, $200 million subject to achieving certain 2025 financial metrics and $200 million subject to a multi-year earnout. The acquisition excludes PineBridge’s private equity funds group business and its joint venture in China.
The acquisition of PineBridge will represent the tactical advancement of MetLife’s newly rolled out New Frontier strategy by adding significant scale to MIM while broadening the firm’s global offerings and distribution reach. Upon close, MIM’s total assets under management are expected to increase to over $700 billion.
“The acquisition of PineBridge Investments furthers our ambition to accelerate growth in asset management,” said MetLife President and Chief Executive Officer Michel Khalaf. “MetLife Investment Management is on a good path to grow its business organically, supplemented by targeted, complementary inorganic growth.”
“This transaction will add substantially to MIM’s already strong franchise by expanding our public and private credit offerings, including a robust leveraged finance platform, as well as extending our global capabilities,” said MetLife Chief Financial Officer and Head of MetLife Investment Management John McCallion. “We are excited about these new capabilities and the additional ways MIM will be able to partner with clients.”
The acquisition will meaningfully expand MIM’s global footprint with more than half of the client assets being acquired in the transaction held by investors outside of the U.S., and about one-third of the assets held in Asia.
The acquisition of PineBridge will also bring to MIM a collateralized loan obligation platform, a multi-asset business, a global suite of equity strategies, as well as direct lending and European real estate businesses – all of which are complementary to the firm’s existing capabilities.
“This is a pivotal moment for PineBridge as we enter an exciting new chapter. By integrating MIM’s expansive platform and financial strength with our active investment expertise across public and private markets, coupled with our diversified global footprint, we are poised to enhance our capabilities and elevate the value we deliver to clients,” said Greg Ehret, CEO, PineBridge. “We are eager to seize new opportunities and remain committed to driving long-term success for clients worldwide.”
PineBridge was founded in 1996 as the investment advisory and asset management business of AIG and was later acquired in 2010 by Pacific Century Group.
This transaction is targeted to close in 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. BofA Securities is serving as financial advisor to MIM, and A&O Shearman is serving as its legal counsel. J.P. Morgan and Evercore are serving as financial advisors to PineBridge, and Davis, Polk & Wardwell is serving as its legal counsel.
Waiting outside the New Jersey Devils’ locker room following Monday’s win over the New York Rangers, you could feel the energy. Upbeat music was blaring from inside and players were hooting and hollering. Who could blame them? They have outscored their rivals 10-1 over two victories and have taken an impressive 23-11-3 record into the Christmas break.
This isn’t just a one-off bout of happiness; the vibes are truly through the roof. From dancing after wins and passionately celebrating goals in practice to jokingly screaming “WOO!” to distract fellow teammates during interviews, this team is a tight-knit group that knows how to balance fun with hard work.
During Noesen’s interview, an unidentified Devils player from outside of the locker room screamed “WOOOO” at the top of his lungs.
If you look at most recent Stanley Cup champions, they were groups that cared about each other off the ice as much as on it. This closeness is especially evident in the dynamic between Luke Hughes, Brett Pesce and Brenden Dillon, who are so close they are like “college buddies” (via New Jersey Devils). But it goes for the entire team, even celebrating holidays like Halloween and Christmas with some teammates.
Thoughts From Sheldon Keefe & Jack Hughes
Head coach Sheldon Keefe spoke to The Hockey Writers (THW) about the great vibes surrounding this year’s squad:
“If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, it becomes a grind. This is hard, you (journalists) are here most days along with us, this is a grind. Whether it’s practice days or games, traveling on the road…when you think about it, we’ve got sort of the quote unquote easy job. We don’t have to physically go out there. These guys go through a lot, so you have to really enjoy what you’re doing. You have to really enjoy each other. I think we’re really doing that. I hope that they’re enjoying playing here and playing on this team as much as I’m enjoying coaching them, because I really am enjoying coaching them. It’s been terrific working with these guys. There is a balance there (though), I think it starts with the work…lead with the work, lead with the speed, lead with the pace…whether it’s practice or games, guys are getting rewarded for it. But as good as it feels and as much as you want to acknowledge it, we haven’t even met the halfway point. There’s so much hockey left to be played. So enjoy the break, enjoy the holiday, feel good about the work you’ve done. There’s lots more to come and we hope that the best is yet to come.”
– Sheldon Keefe
New Jersey Devils celebrate a goal (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)
Superstar forward Hughes gave his insight to THW as well, “I mean, winning obviously cures everything. So I think every year we’ve had a great group in the locker room, and last year we had fun, but you’re losing so much that it doesn’t make it as fun. This year, we have another good group, and we’re winning, and that just makes it more enjoyable coming to the rink. And I think we really believe in our group, and it allows us to come to the rink and enjoy it, and then we go to work when it’s time to go to work.”
The Devils have won 18 of their last 26 games, in large part due to their historic level of defensive commitment. Their opponents have 20 shots or fewer in seven straight games, the first-ever streak of that length since the NHL started tracking shots in 1959-60.
If you’re a diehard Devils fan, it’s likely that the greatest holiday gift is what you’ve been experiencing for the past few weeks – stifling defense, stellar goaltending and a high-powered offense. They now have a 98.3% chance to make the playoffs, according to MoneyPuck.
WALL TOWNSHIP — The Wall Township Education Association (WTEA) announced at last week’s board of education meeting a grant for $12,400 from the Perricone Family Charitable Trust, to aid local families in need this season.
Gail Maher, president of the WTEA, presented the grant and first discussed the association’s overarching goals for the Wall community.
“The Wall Township Education Association is dedicated to supporting its members and the Wall Township community, addressing both the educational and emotional needs for students and their families. Recognizing the financial struggles many face, specifically in our district, the WTEA has proactively sought assistance for families right here in our town,” Maher said. “The Wall Township Education Association has applied for a grant from the Perricone Family Charitable Trust, a local foundation committed to charitable initiatives. We are thrilled to announce that our grant application was approved, providing us with $12,400, to assist nearly 160 Wall Township families during this holiday season.”
“This funding will help ensure that families can put food on the table, and buy needed clothing for their children, highlighting our commitment and the Perricone family’s commitment to the well-being of our students and their families,” Maher added.
Maher thanked the trust as well as Jeff Jannarone, Wall Primary School’s Special Education Parent Advisory Group (SEPAG) representative, who is credited with spearheading the grant application.
“The WTEA would like to extend our gratitude to Mr. Jeff Jannarone, for his invaluable assistance regarding the Perricone Family Trust Foundation,” Maher said. “Just three weeks ago, Jeff proposed this initiative demonstrating his commitment to our community. Without his suggestion, the grant would not have been submitted. We would also like to express our gratitude to Phillip and Marilyn Perricone, who established this charitable trust, for their ongoing commitment to supporting families in need, and brightening the holidays for those less fortunate.”
Maher talked about the Perricone family’s ties to Wall, and why the WTEA connected with the foundation.
“Phil and Marilyn resided in Wall Township for over 40 years, and were well-respected entrepreneurs and beloved members of the Jersey Shore community,” Maher said. “Their sons, Rob and Chris, both attended Central School, Wall Intermediate, and were Wall High School graduates. Phil and Marilyn passed away in 2024, as did Chris several years before. Rob, who is with us today, shares his parents’ passion for service and philanthropy, and looks forward to continuing their legacy through projects such as tonight’s donation. Together, we hope that this will make a meaningful impact in our community, and we would like again to express our thanks to all those involved in the Perricone Family Charitable Trust.”
Rob Imperato, son of Phil and Marilyn Perricone, spoke about his parents’ history of giving this time of year, and how happy they would be to see this grant go to local students and their families.
“This is a tough time of year. My parents loved Christmas, and this is the first year without them,” he said. “They were always on the look-out for families who struggled this time of year, and they would quietly work behind the scenes to make sure people had a brighter Christmas season. I am honored to be here tonight, I am honored to represent my family, they would have loved this tonight. I wish you all a very happy holiday season.”
The Perricone Family
Charitable Trust
The Perricone Family Charitable Trust donates to organizations throughout New Jersey to aid in various causes, including medical foundations, school organizations, food banks and more.
Phil and Marilyn Perricone are also credited with founding the Christopher Center for Mental Health and Wellness at Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune, in honor of their son, Christopher, who died in 2016.
(NEWTON, NJ) — The jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra will perform at The Newton Theatre on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 8:00pm. In 2024, Jay Beckenstein and the Spryo Gyra band observed the 50th anniversary of what started as a diversion, something that was just for fun (and twenty-five cents at the door).
It’s a time that Beckenstein remembers fondly. He describes the beginning as “that period of time when I was in my 20s, when it was all raw and there were no expectations. It was all about having a good time and playing hard. It was a golden time.”
It’s a story that is familiar to fans of Spyro Gyra the world around. It began inauspiciously in 1974 when Jay Beckenstein and a few musician friends in Buffalo NY organized a get together on their shared night off from working in bands that actually made money. It was a simple, humble idea with a name that was likewise simple and humble, “Tuesday Night – Jazz Jam”. Every week a core group, Beckenstein and co-founder Jeremy Wall along with Jim Kurzdorfer and Tom Walsh, the rhythm section from the Buffalo Jazz Ensemble who Beckenstein and Wall had been playing with, would gather to jam. They were joined by various players from around town, including long time Spyro Gyra keyboardist Tom Schuman, who just wanted to have some fun playing jazz and its relatively new cousin, jazz fusion.
The idea grew and so did its audience until one week when the club owner insisted that Beckenstein comes up with a name for the group to display on his new sidewalk sign. Beckenstein flippantly suggested “spirogyra” which is an algae he remembered from his biology classes. The next week, there it was adorning the sign out front mistakenly spelled Spyro Gyra. And so it began and continued to grow.
After a couple of years, Beckenstein started to plan his next move which, at the time for a musician, meant moving to New York City or Los Angeles. The band was successful enough in Western New York that they were able to get studio time in a local sixteen track studio to record an album. Beckenstein has long said that it was intended as a farewell statement to that era of his life and to Buffalo. Then fate stepped in and people started buying that eponymous release.
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Soon people with more means were interested in being involved and the band was able to expand its horizons. Lucky? Maybe. “I’ve always felt incredibly fortunate. Not only do I get to do what I love for a living, but I’ve never really had a boss. I’ve been the commander of my own ship and and how fortunate is that? How many people get to go through life in control of something that they love. It’s been fantastic.”
It wasn’t long before he was in New York City recording his songs with some of the hottest session musicians while keeping the core performing band busy with shows in an ever increasing geographical area. Beckenstein refers to that early period as “the days of making Catching The Sun and Morning Dance in New York City where I got to meet so many great musicians and worked in an environment where I had all the resources we could want to do exactly what we want. We had a blast. We were somewhat excessive at the time but we had a blast.”
Spyro Gyra’s sound has remained instantly identifiable despite several personnel changes over the years. Beckenstein denies that it was the result of any strategy, “Having released 30+ albums, we often made an effort to create something that didn’t sound like the ‘Spyro Gyra sound’. But my saxophone playing is the vocal lead of the band and I have the voice I have. I’m not a saxophone chameleon. I’m just me. The good side of that is that there is only one me, so it’s effortless. So that has kept a very consistent identity to the band. However, I would say that the band approach changed greatly at different times. Drummers and bass players, the rhythm section, have had an enormous influence on what the band sounded like at any given time. I think that the drummer, whoever he has been, has had a big say in how the band felt and how the band created music. So that’s been a reliable agent of change. When you’re talking about lasting 50 years, thank God for change.”
Beckenstein attempts to sum up the opposing values of continuity and change. “There have been a number of forces that have acted upon us. For one thing, technology. The early days of Spyro Gyra were very much analog. They were very laborious and time has brought us all sorts of new technologies and opened up different kinds of production possibilities, that’s one. The other thing is that any group of musicians who are sincere about what they do keep their ears open. And a whole lot of music has gone down since the beginnings of Spyro Gyra. There’s a lot of things that the people in the band have listened to and that has certainly crept into the music. And I think that kept it current. Then there’s the third thing which is over the years personnel in the band have changed. There’s still been a lot of consistency. Some guys in the band have 30 or 40 years or more.”
And now? “Spyro Gyra of today is more of a team than it’s ever been. I’ve been doing this for a long time and I’m happy not feeling like I have to carry the whole load,” Beckenstein offers. “I’ve managed to surround myself with these really talented guys, terrific musicians, who all have a lot to say. At one time, maybe it was more of an autocracy. But now it’s more like a basketball team. There’s a lot of passing the ball back-and-forth. There is a cumulative effect of being a true ensemble with inter-ensemble respect.
When asked about the prospect of retiring, Beckenstein demurs. “Hey, I think about it. But I got a taste of it during the height of the Covid pandemic and I didn’t like it. I didn’t like it at all. It gave me a slight feeling of being purposeless.” He explains further, “On the road, there are many times when getting from Point A to Point B is painful and I might wind up muttering under my breath. ‘Why am I doing this?’ But there’s no question, when I’m not doing it, it can feel like there’s no reason for me to be around. So I’m in for as long as I can do it.”
Tickets range from $39-$59 and are available for purchase online starting Friday, December 27th at 10:00am. The Newton Theatre is located at 234 Spring Street in Newton, New Jersey.
The Newton Theatre was founded in 1924. It is a beautifully restored 605 seat performing arts center in the heart of Sussex County, presenting diverse programming, including world-renowned music acts, comedians, family productions, holiday shows and much more.
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Frontiers: The Ultimate Journey Tribute Band
Friday, December 27, 2024 @ 7:30pm The Vogel 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 category: music
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Steve Forbert
Friday, December 27, 2024 @ 7:30pm Lizzie Rose Music Room 217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ 08087 category: music
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Gregory Burrus Productions Presents Carrie Jackson & Friends Pre-New Years Eve Jam and Open Mic
Saturday, December 28, 2024 @ 7:30pm Par 440 Restaurant & Lounge 440 Parsonage Hill Rd, Short Hills, NJ 07078 category: music
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The Morris County Board of County Commissioners will convene for its annual reorganization meeting on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at 6 p.m., where Commissioner Tayfun Selen is slated to succeed Christine Myers as director, while Commissioner Stephen Shaw will continue serving as deputy director.
The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) is encouraging residents to reduce, reuse, and recycle this holiday season to help minimize the amount of trash heading to landfills. 
