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Unlocking Opportunities: Securing Funding for Trail-Related Projects

Don Lichterman
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Unlocking Opportunities: Securing Funding for Trail-Related Projects

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June 24th, 2024 by Zeke Weston

As the nation’s most densely populated state, New Jersey packs in more people per square mile than anywhere else. Our most vibrant cities and towns include compact, walkable downtowns and active streetscapes—complemented by accessible greenways and trails for recreation, a respite from urban life, and healthy, carbon-free travel. But being the Garden State, we can do so much more. 

New Jerseyans enthusiastically support and want more greenways and trails. The public input process for the new draft Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) included over 15,000 survey responses that identified hiking, walking, and gathering as top priorities, with trails highlighted as one of the most important outdoor amenities. Nonetheless, residents from the SCORP’s public focus groups mentioned several barriers to full participation in outdoor recreation, notably limited transportation options, whereby participants can comfortably travel to outdoor spaces. To overcome these barriers, towns and counties need to comprehensively plan and design trail projects that are safe, accessible, and well-connected. Most communities want to build outdoor recreation and active transportation facilities but lack the funding and resources to make them a reality. 

Most communities want to build outdoor recreation and active transportation facilities but lack the funding and resources to make them a reality.

A panel titled “Connecting Communities to Capital for Greenways, Trails, and Bike Paths” addressed these issues and priorities at the 2024 NJ Planning and Redevelopment Conference (NJPRC), sponsored by New Jersey Future and the New Jersey chapter of the American Planning Association. Panelists brought a broad range of experiences to the discussion and an even greater depth of on-the-ground experience. They included: moderator Olivia Glenn, Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor for Equity, US EPA Region 2; Byron Nicholas, Chief, Division of Planning, Hudson County; Elizabeth Dragon, Assistant Commissioner, Community Investment and Economic Revitalization, NJ Department of Environmental Protection; Laine Rankin, Assistant Commissioner, Local Resources and Community Development, NJ Department of Transportation; and Teri Jover, Borough Administrator and Economic Development Director, Borough of Highland Park.

In her opening remarks, Olivia Glenn emphasized the importance of federal funding for state and local governments to invest in active transportation infrastructure, especially from the Inflation Reduction Act. She highlighted the $4 million awarded to New Jersey’s local, county, and state governments from the EPA’s Government to Government program last year. The funds will be used for government activities in partnership with Community-Based Organizations that result in measurable environmental and public health improvements in overburdened communities. One of the many types of projects the program can fund is urban greenways. Urban greenways provide access to nature and clean transportation corridors while simultaneously reducing the urban heat island effect. Because of their multifaceted benefits, Glenn emphasized the ability for trail-related projects, like urban greenways, to be funded by a wide variety of grant programs, not just transportation ones. 

Teri Jover provided insight into how these types of projects come to fruition at the local level in a municipality. The Highland Park River Greenway was a dream of the Borough’s residents and elected officials for decades. In 2017, the Borough finally developed a one-page description of the Greenway to share with the county and state. At that time, Jover noted that the project needed to be fleshed out in more detail for it to advance. Because of Highland Park’s limited staff capacity and resources, she highlighted the Borough’s inability to afford a consultant despite needing one. Fortunately, Highland Park applied for and received a budgetary grant from the NJ Department of Community Affairs to conduct the feasibility studies and topographic surveys needed for the project, which was funded by a one-time earmark from the state legislature. This grant allowed the Borough to conduct the analysis and planning to push the project forward, but Jover acknowledged the need for additional money to construct and then maintain the Greenway. This will be a long-term project, as many greenways are, and, she emphasized the importance of staying committed to these projects until the end. 

Byron Nicholas spoke to the regional perspective and process for advancing trail projects, drawing on his experience with various Greenways in Hudson County. Because Hudson County is the most densely populated county in the state, access to riverfronts and open spaces is limited despite the existence of the Hudson, Hackensack, and Passaic Rivers. Therefore, the county looked at how to improve access to outdoor amenities while providing alternate transportation options. This resulted in the 2022 Hackensack River Greenway plan. The County needed to develop a concept design for the Lincoln Park segment of the Hackensack River Greenway, so they applied for and received a grant of approximately $1.5 million from the Transportation Alternative Program (TAP). The TAP grant funded the preliminary and final designs of the Greenway and the beginning of construction. From this experience, Nicholas emphasized the importance of establishing and maintaining relationships with your project partners. He noted that their bi-monthly working group meetings were critical to the project’s success and should be a component of all regional trail projects. 

Hackensack River Greenway

Elizabeth Dragon emphasized the importance of intentional planning for successful trail projects. Effective trail planning includes research, community engagement, and alignment with state and local initiatives. When reviewing grant applications to the Green Acres Program, Dragon noted that the most competitive applications identify the project’s economic, environmental, and community benefits and demonstrate its positive impact on local business, tourism, environmental preservation, and social cohesion. She highlighted the importance of addressing the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s triple bottom line in the grant application: economy, environment, and people. Connecting your trail or greenway project to these priorities and outcomes cannot be overstated. Similarly, Dragon noted the need to identify how the project complements local and state land use plans. The most successful applications are consistent with these plans and their priorities. 

The most competitive grant applications highlight the project’s economic, environmental, and community benefits and identify its positive impact on local business, tourism, environmental preservation, and social cohesion. 

Laine Rankin described the funding opportunities available at the NJ Department of Transportation for trail-related projects. She identified the state’s Bikeways Program and Municipal Aid Program as opportunities for towns and counties to access funding for such projects. Rankin made sure to note that the state’s programs are intended for shovel-ready projects that have already completed the planning and design phases. For example, Montgomery Township received a $360,000 Municipal Aid grant in 2020 to build 1.5 miles of bike lanes and 2.1 miles of new multi-use paths around Skillman Park. On the other hand, Federal programs for trail-related projects, like the Transportation Alternative Set-Aside (TASA), do not have the same shovel-ready requirements. For instance, Burlington County received a $440,000 TASA grant in 2020 to build a portion of the Delaware River Heritage Trail along the Route 130 bypass. Rankin reiterated the importance of knowing what project types each program funds so that towns apply to the most appropriate program for their needs. 

Now, more than ever, New Jersey needs to meet its residents’ wants and needs for greenways and trails that provide equitable mobility and access to nature. The state’s municipalities and counties can make this a reality, but they need to know the appropriate funding programs to do so. Towns interested in trail-related projects should contact their County planning departments and Metropolitan Planning Organizations for further assistance and information.

Posted in Bicycle and Pedestrian, Transportation

Tags: 2024 NJ Planning and Redevelopment Conference, active transportation, bike, bike paths, greenways, New Jersey planning and redevelopment conference, outdoor recreation, outdoor spaces, Pedestrian, pedestrian accessibility, pedestrian safety, recreation, trails, walkable



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Franciscan Charities in Newark Makes Holidays Happier for City’s Neediest

Don Lichterman
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Franciscan Charities in Newark Makes Holidays Happier for City’s Neediest

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Easy sell: Making push to support Small Business Saturday

Don Lichterman
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Easy sell: Making push to support Small Business Saturday

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Small Business Saturday is more than just a marketing slogan. For many small businesses across the state, it is a potential jump start to the most important month of the year.

The day, sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, began in 2010 as a way to help local stores and restaurants recover from the economic downturn of 2008.

It has quickly transformed into a Thanksgiving weekend tradition, becoming one of the busiest sales seasons for small business owners nationwide.

Eileen Kean, the state director for the National Federation of Independent Business, said the importance of the day – and of small businesses to local communities – cannot be overstated.

“In addition to creating good-paying jobs and strengthening the local economy, small businesses shape our communities by volunteering their time and financially supporting charitable organizations,” she said. “A recent NFIB report highlights how small business owners and their employees benefit their communities, beyond operating their businesses.”

The NFIB report demonstrated a number of ways small businesses contribute to their communities: Creating jobs, stimulating local economies and adding unique characteristics to their area.

One of the important ways in which small business owners contribute to their community is volunteering their time. About three-quarters (76 percent) of all business owners reported volunteering their time to work on behalf of community or civic groups, charities, youth sport programs, schools, religious organizations, or similar activities in the last 12 months.

Despite obviously having smaller staffs, 73 percent of businesses with 1-9 employees reported volunteering.

The connection is real.

The 2024 Gallup survey on the public’s trust of American institutions found that over two-thirds of the public have a strong sense of trust among small businesses, more than any other of the listed institutions including large businesses.

All of which is why Kean is encouraging residents to shop locally.

“As we kick off the holiday season, I encourage all New Jerseyans to shop small, especially on Small Business Saturday, and thank a small business owner for how they enrich your community,” she said.



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Everything Else We’re Watching – July 29, 2022

Don Lichterman
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Everything Else We’re Watching – July 29, 2022

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Endicott Emergency. Atlantic City issued a “repair, occupy and/or demolish” notice to 209 S Tennessee Ave, an unoccupied former rooming house on the beach block. A hearing on the property was scheduled for July 20, but the outcome was unknown and officials at City Hall did not respond to questions about the property.

Wind Power. The city granted final site plan approval to Orsted Wind Power North America to build its Atlantic City operations and maintenance facility at 600-700 N Delaware Ave, in the Inlet.

There’s a housing crisis. A city-owned property at 618 Caspian Ave was transferred to a nonprofit that will renovate it for single-family housing, according to an ordinance that passed on its second reading in June. The ordinance said, “the City of Atlantic City is aware that there is a housing crisis in the City; to wit: there is a significant lack of affordable housing in the City which is detrimental to the health, welfare, and well-being of the citizens of the City.” Meanwhile there will likely be no redevelopment at Stanley Holmes Village for at least the next two years, according to the April meeting of the Atlantic City Executive Council. Stanley Holmes, built in the 1930s, is one of the oldest public housing communities in the city and the region. A federal grant in 2020 was used to consider how to redevelop the property and surrounding neighborhood. New applications will be made for grants to do the work, but they will likely not be approved before the end of 2023, according to the meeting notes.

Busy In The City. Atlantic City last week published six new requests for proposals for everything from grant management for the Ducktown neighborhood preservation program to a tow truck and an economic development action strategy.

What’s Coming Up?

The Atlantic City Arts Foundation is holding a Midsummer Celebration at the Absecon Lighthouse on Saturday, with community projects, exhibitions and fun activities all day. (July 30)

Catch this week’s edition of Jazz On The Boardwalk, featuring Stefon Harris as well as some of the students of the Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation’s youth institute for jazz studies. (Aug. 4)

Check out the Around The Island swim festival and see if you can spot some swimmers along the bay, inlet or ocean! (Aug. 9)

Further Reading

“It’s 50 years since Bob Rafelson’s quiet indictment of the hollowness of American dreams was released,” writes Peter Tonguette at the British Film Institute, on the anniversary of The King Of Marvin Gardens, which was set in and around Atlantic City.

Also, a couple of great long reads about school segregation in New Jersey: this one from Gothamist on a complaint by The New Jersey Coalition Against Racial Exclusion, or NJ-CARE, hand-delivered a letter to Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke at the NAACP convention in Atlantic City recently and also this one by Politico’s Carly Sitrin on decades of integration efforts in the South Orange/Maplewood district.



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Community Partnership Opportunities | Cherry Hill Township, NJ

Don Lichterman
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Community Partnership Opportunities | Cherry Hill Township, NJ

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Sponsoring a Cherry Hill Township event provides you with an opportunity to connect with the community of Cherry Hill and to build brand awareness and recognition.

Each event reaches a different key audience segment and provides a fun, entertaining and engaging way for you to be in front of the community. There are countless ways in which you can sponsor. The Recreation Department can work with you to find the best fit possible and make it a success for everyone!

Click the banner to sponsor in 2025!

2025 spons

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FCHS Educator Karen Ensle Inducted into 2024 NEAFCS Hall of Fame : Newsroom

Don Lichterman
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FCHS Educator Karen Ensle Inducted into 2024 NEAFCS Hall of Fame : Newsroom

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Karen Ensle, FCHS educator and department head, Union County, speaks during her induction into the 2024 NEAFCS Hall of Fame.

Karen Ensle, Ed.D., educator and department head, Family and Community Health Sciences (FCHS), Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, was inducted into the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS) Hall of Fame in Tucson, Arizona, on September 19. She was recognized with the 2024 NEAFCS Hall of Fame Award—the most prestigious honor for Extension Family and Consumer Science professionals nationwide.

For nearly 40 years, Ensle has exemplified unparalleled dedication, expertise, and innovation in the field of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), making significant contributions that have positively impacted individuals, families, and communities. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service embodies the values and mission of NEAFCS, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

“It was a thrill to be nominated by my FCHS Rutgers colleagues for this award and to receive it at our national NEAFCS meeting in Tucson, Arizona. I have truly enjoyed being an FCHS Extension Educator in Union County, NJ, the last 37 years and have had the pleasure educating local residents on the topics of obesity prevention, healthful meals, physical activity and small steps to health and wealth,” said Ensle.

She noted that the “NEAFCS Strategic Plan aligns with Rutgers Cooperative Extension and supports the education of consumers of all ages to improve the quality of life for individuals and families across the U.S.”

Ensle’s accomplishments are evident through her continued commitment to NEAFCS as a member and leader as well as an FCHS professional, and drew praise from FCHS chair, Sara Elnakib, Ph.D.

“This award is a testament to her unwavering dedication to NEAFCS and her tremendous contributions through educational resources and leadership that have touched lives in her community, across New Jersey, and throughout the country,” said Elnakib.

Karen Ensle (front row, 4th from right) was joined by several Rutgers colleagues during her induction into the 2024 NEAFCH Hall of Fame in Tucson, AZ, on September 19.

Ensle has won more than 20 awards from NEAFCS on the state, regional, and national levels. In addition, she’s served as a reviewer for the Journal of NEAFCS since 2006 and has published articles in the Journal.

She serves selflessly to ensure that both the organization and its members continue to thrive and succeed, which is evident in her service to the organization as a whole and the individual members. She has served as an external reviewer for promotion and tenure packets since 2005, ensuring that NEAFCS continues to attract and foster excellence in its members. Ensle currently serves on the NEAFCS endowment committee and two Public Affairs committees.

Ensle has served on at least 8 different NEAFCS committees dating back to 1991 while holding many affiliate offices. She recently agreed to serve as the affiliate representative for the 90th Anniversary committee.

“From having her local community make a proclamation for Living Well Month to conveying a historical note to new members about NEAFCS, Karen has exemplified what it means to be a dedicated member of her professional association and leader to new and experienced colleagues alike,” said NEAFCS in its announcement.

The NEAFCS Hall of Fame was established in 2019 to recognize an outstanding NEAFCS member/s who has contributed their time, skills, and abilities and/or financial resources to the NEAFCS. The recognition is given to NEAFCS members who have demonstrated their commitment, dedication and effective leadership and involvement in NEAFCS at the state, regional and/or national level.



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The History Of The Atlantic City Country Club

Don Lichterman
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The History Of The Atlantic City Country Club

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The History Of The Atlantic City Country Club

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Northern Lights Over New Jersey & A Night of Rivalry and Championship Glory at MetLife Stadium featuring Bergen Catholic vs. Don Bosco

Don Lichterman
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Northern Lights Over New Jersey & A Night of Rivalry and Championship Glory at MetLife Stadium featuring Bergen Catholic vs. Don Bosco

Tonight, as the cool winter air settles over New Jersey, the sky above is graced with an extraordinary natural spectacle—the northern lights. While the aurora borealis is typically seen in more northern latitudes, recent solar activity has led to an unusual display that stretches far south, reaching the Garden State. The green and purple hues shimmer across the night sky, a mesmerizing backdrop for an already electric evening in East Rutherford. As the northern lights dance overhead, down below, one of New Jersey’s most fierce and storied high school football rivalries is unfolding at MetLife Stadium.

Bergen Catholic vs. Don Bosco: A Championship Showdown

On this remarkable evening, MetLife Stadium becomes the stage for the Non-Public A state championship game between two of New Jersey’s most successful football programs—Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep. This matchup is more than just a football game; it’s the latest chapter in a fierce rivalry that has captivated high school football fans across the state for decades. With 14,886 fans in the stands, the atmosphere is charged with excitement as the Bergen Catholic Crusaders look to complete a championship four-peat and cement their dominance in New Jersey’s football landscape.

First Half: A Tight Battle

The game kicked off in front of a packed crowd, with the Crusaders and Ironmen both eager to add another chapter to this historic rivalry. Bergen Catholic struck first with a 5-yard touchdown run by Dominic Campanile, capping a drive that mixed precision passing and hard running. However, Don Bosco quickly answered with a 20-yard touchdown run by Dante DeLuca, tying the game at 7-7 after the first quarter.

The second quarter saw a series of back-and-forth moments. Bergen Catholic capitalized on a series of turnovers, with Naiim Parrish grabbing an interception to set up crucial opportunities. But the Don Bosco defense remained stout, forcing several three-and-outs. The game’s pivotal moment came late in the second quarter when a blocked punt by Ethan Cohall set up a safety for Bergen Catholic, putting them ahead 9-7.

With the score close, the first half ended with both teams trying to gain an edge before the break.

Second Half: Bergen Catholic Pulls Away

The game truly turned in the third quarter, with Bergen Catholic making crucial stops on defense and forcing Don Bosco to turn the ball over on downs. The Crusaders’ defense, led by key plays from Delaney Fludd and Brandon Wilson, shut down Don Bosco’s attempts to drive the ball, including stopping a fourth-down conversion attempt inside Bergen Catholic territory.

With the game still hanging in the balance, Bryan Porter broke free for a spectacular 48-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, extending the lead to 18-7. The Ironmen attempted to answer, but their efforts were thwarted by a relentless Bergen Catholic defense. With 3:51 left in the game, Porter sealed the victory with another 26-yard touchdown run on a jet sweep, making it 25-7.

The win secured Bergen Catholic’s fourth consecutive Non-Public A state title, a program record, and their third victory in four years against their rivals, Don Bosco. It was a statement performance from the Crusaders, who proved once again that they are the team to beat in New Jersey high school football.

The Rivalry’s Legacy

This victory marks another milestone in one of the most intense rivalries in high school sports. While Don Bosco’s last win in the series came in the 2022 regular season, Bergen Catholic has won the last three encounters, including two decisive victories in state championship games. The intensity and tradition of this rivalry have made it a must-watch event in New Jersey football, with fans from both schools turning out year after year to witness the drama unfold.

MetLife Stadium: The Perfect Stage

MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and Jets, has become the unofficial home for New Jersey high school football championship games. The stadium’s massive size and state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect stage for such a monumental game, drawing thousands of fans from all over the state. The experience of watching a game here—amid the roaring crowd, the massive scoreboards, and the professional atmosphere—adds a layer of excitement that few other high school sports events can match.

This year’s Non-Public A state final was the fourth game of a busy championship day at MetLife, but it stood out for the palpable tension between the two teams and the history behind every play. The championship games are a true showcase of the talent, heart, and dedication that defines New Jersey high school sports, and MetLife Stadium provides the perfect venue to highlight that talent.

A Night to Remember

As the game concluded and the Bergen Catholic Crusaders hoisted the trophy, the northern lights continued to light up the New Jersey sky, adding a surreal and unforgettable visual element to an already unforgettable night. The mix of football glory and natural wonder made for an evening that will be remembered for years to come. With their four-peat secured, the Crusaders have once again proven that their legacy in New Jersey high school football is far from over. As for Don Bosco, they will undoubtedly be back, ready to challenge for another title in the years to come.

In the end, the rivalry between Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco is not just about winning or losing; it’s about pride, tradition, and the love of the game. And tonight, under the glow of the northern lights and the lights of MetLife Stadium, Bergen Catholic reigns supreme once again.

Asbury Park Theater Company presents A Big Band Holiday to Remember Fundraiser & Concert

Don Lichterman
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Asbury Park Theater Company presents A Big Band Holiday to Remember Fundraiser & Concert

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originally published: 11/30/2024

(OCEAN GROVE, NJ) — Asbury Park Theater Company (APTCo) presents A Big Band Holiday To Remember, an Asbury Park Theater Company Fundraising Event on Saturday, December 14, 2024 featuring Asbury Park music community artists, Broadway performers, and starring guest band leader Remember Jones and his 17 piece big band! The event takes place at the Jersey Shore Arts Center, showtime is 7:30pm.

“With limited seating available, we strongly encourage folks to get their tickets right away for this event,” says William Whitefield, APTCo’s Producing Artistic Director. “I know that people are going to want to see Remember Jones, his big band and the other stars. We all know that he can really put on a show and this one is going to be a blast!”

Remember Jones is a captivating showman, soul/pop singer/songwriter, storyteller, and bandleader, calling Asbury Park home! His original music, high energy, show-band staging, and creative, theatrical events have played to packed and sold-out clubs and theaters throughout the United States. He has shared stages with Bruce Springsteen, Dionne Warwick, George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, Ronnie Spector & The Ronettes, Darlene Love, Buster Poindexter, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, and more, and has been featured in Rolling Stone, Paste, Variety, and Billboard magazines. He has been called one of the Most Influential Artists on the Jersey Shore and is the recipient of the 2020 Artistic Achievement Award from Monmouth Arts Council, alongside Steven Van Zandt, Debbie Harry, Kevin Smith and others!

Also appearing will be actor and rock singer Constantine Maroulis, who became a household name when his soaring vocal talents were featured on the reality television series American Idol. He received a Tony Award Nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his role in Rock of Ages on Broadway. He also starred on Broadway in the title role in Jekyll & Hyde, for which he received a Drama League Award Nomination for a Distinguished Performance Award.

Broadway veteran and NJ native Brian O’Brien, who has appeared on Broadway in Chicago, Steel Pier, Pirate Queen, Annie Get Your Gun, Beauty & The Beast, Anything Goes and Promises, Promises, and in APTCo’s Greatest Hits last fall, will be featured in the evening’s line-up. Broadway performer Jeanne Montano, who has appeared in NYC in Cats and Forbidden Broadway, and in APTCo’s 2023 production of The Bikinis, will be also included on the bill.

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On the show’s roster is singer Layonne Holmes who has shared the stage with many music industry luminaries including Darlene Love with whom she is currently touring, Phoebe Snow, Southside Johnny, Gary U.S. Bonds, Ben E. King, Leslie Gore, and others. In 2001, she was selected along with her mother to back Bruce Springsteen on the internationally- televised “9/11 Tribute to Heroes” telethon and appear on the album of the same name. Layonne currently performs with Motor City Revue, Matt O’Ree Band, Tim McLoone & The Shirleys, and many others.

Rounding out the evening will be talented cast members from past APTCo shows including Grace Allison (Million Dollar Quartet, American Idiot, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change), Emily DeMaio (I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change), Jarrod Scott (The Mountaintop, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change).

The show will take place on Saturday, December 14 at 7:30pm at Jersey Shore Arts Center (66 S. Main Street) in Ocean Grove, NJ . Standard tickets are $50.00 per person and include reserved seating for the show only, with doors opening at 7:00pm and showtime at 7:30pm.  VIP tickets are $125.00 per person and include reserved seating, pre-show reception from 6:00pm to 7:30pm and post-show meet and greet with the performers. Standard and VIP tickets are available for purchase online. Groups of 10 or more VIP Tickets can be arranged by calling the box office at (732) 455-2296.

APTCo will honor four amazing women this year who are champions of the arts in the Asbury Park and Monmouth County areas. Asbury Park Councilwoman Eileen Chapman, Asbury Park Music Teacher Tanya Peterson, Jersey Shore Arts Center Executive Director Jeanne Power-Galli and Asbury Park Director of Business Development Sylvia Sylvia-Cioffi will be celebrated at this event that is graciously sponsored by PNC Private Bank and HFA Certified Public Accountants + Advisors.

APTCo Board Member and Fundraiser Coordinator Christina Smith says, “As a long-standing resident of Asbury Park, I know full well how important the arts are in our community. Our honorees and sponsors have been invaluable to our theater company and all the arts groups in the area.”

APTCo is also thrilled to announce their support to Community Karma and St. Stephen Church, both of Asbury Park, by asking folks to bring a wrapped toy to support their annual Holiday Toy Drive. Additionally, APTCo is happy to support The Center of Asbury Park and will also be accepting packaged personal hygiene products to support the efforts. Collection boxes will be available on site at the event, and all are encouraged to participate in these drives.



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Eunice Kennedy Shriver & The Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex Is A Hub for Athletes, Families, and Community

Don Lichterman
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Eunice Kennedy Shriver & The Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex Is A Hub for Athletes, Families, and Community

The Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex is a state-of-the-art facility that provides athletes, their families, and the greater community with access to a variety of programs, services, and events that support physical fitness, personal growth, and inclusivity. Located in a welcoming and supportive environment, this one-of-a-kind complex stands as a testament to the power of sports and the Special Olympics movement, bringing people together through shared experiences and opportunities for achievement.

Explore Our Event Calendar

The Sports Complex offers a dynamic range of activities and events throughout the year. From sports tournaments and league play to educational conferences and family workshops, the complex is a hub of excitement and engagement. Check the event calendar to stay up to date on everything happening at the facility and join us in celebrating the joy of sport and community.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center

Named after Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of the Special Olympics, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center serves as a central location for various conferences, seminars, and meetings focused on advancing the mission of Special Olympics New Jersey. Mrs. Shriver, who had a deep connection with New Jersey, visited the state several times over the years, with her final visit in 2007 for the dedication of this center. It stands as a tribute to her tireless efforts in advocating for individuals with intellectual disabilities and creating a world where everyone can experience the transformative power of sports.

Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center

The Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center is the official training facility for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes, offering a fully equipped gym with the latest cardio and fitness equipment. It is designed to support the physical health and fitness of athletes, helping them train in a safe and encouraging environment. What makes this center unique is its Unified training model, where athletes can train alongside a friend, sibling, or parent, fostering inclusivity and community in every workout session.

The center is staffed with certified trainers and fitness professionals, ensuring that athletes receive the best support possible in their fitness journeys. Eligible athletes are encouraged to train three times a week, and the center is open during the following hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Note: The Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center will be closed from November 27 to November 30, and will reopen on December 2. The center will also be closed December 18, as well as from December 23 to January 4 for the holidays.

TD Sports Field

The TD Sports Field is a regulation 5v5 turf soccer field designed specifically for use by Special Olympics programs. This one-of-a-kind playing field hosts a variety of events, including tournaments, league play, and individual skills training. During the summer, it is extensively used for Camp Shriver, a sports camp for children with intellectual disabilities, as well as the Unified Sports® program, which pairs athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to compete together. The TD Sports Field serves as a symbol of inclusion, where athletes of all abilities can come together to enjoy the game of soccer.

RWJBarnabas Health Sports Court

The RWJBarnabas Health Sports Court is a newly renovated multi-purpose court dedicated to the training and development of athletes in a variety of sports. Opened in 2021, this court features a full-size outdoor basketball court and three pickleball courts. The Sports Court provides a versatile space for athletes to hone their skills in basketball, pickleball, and more. This area also plays a key role in supporting Camp Shriver campers during the summer months, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to excel in a variety of activities.

The Walsh Education & Family Center

The Walsh Education & Family Center, also known as the Walsh Library, offers a quiet and accessible space for athletes and their families to learn, connect, and grow. The center provides computer and internet access, lounge areas, and meeting spaces, allowing families to come together in a comfortable setting. Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of conferences and workshops on topics ranging from legal issues and health and wellness to sport-specific training. These events are offered free of charge to athletes and their families, ensuring that the complex is not just a place for physical activity, but a space for learning and personal growth as well.

Champions Patio & Law Enforcement Tribute Walk

The Champions Patio & Law Enforcement Tribute Walk is a serene and beautiful outdoor area that pays tribute to the athletes, families, volunteers, and sponsors who have contributed to the success of Special Olympics New Jersey. The patio is named in honor of Sean Nelligan, a dedicated supporter of Special Olympics, and it includes the Law Enforcement Tribute Walk, which acknowledges the crucial role that law enforcement plays in supporting the Law Enforcement Torch Run and other Special Olympics events. This outdoor space serves as a venue for Camp Shriver, special events, luncheons, and competitions, making it a central gathering place for athletes and supporters.

Sargent Shriver Gymnasium

The Sargent Shriver Gymnasium is named in honor of Sargent Shriver, the husband of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who was instrumental in expanding the Special Olympics movement globally. Dedicated to his legacy, the gymnasium provides a dedicated space for basketball and volleyball training and competition. It also hosts Camp Shriver and Young Athletes community programs, serving as an essential venue for athletes to develop their skills and foster friendships in a supportive environment.

A Community-Oriented Sports Complex

The Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex is more than just a place to train; it is a community hub where athletes, families, and supporters come together to experience the power of sport and inclusion. Whether it’s through training, competition, or educational opportunities, the complex provides a range of services designed to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities and promote a more inclusive society. From the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center to the Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center and beyond, every aspect of this facility reflects the mission of Special Olympics New Jersey: to create a world where every athlete is valued, respected, and celebrated.

The Special Olympics New Jersey Sports Complex is a one-of-a-kind facility that gives registered athletes, their families, and the community a place to come together to experience an array of programs and services that we have to offer.

Explore our event calendar to see what’s happening at the Sports Complex.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center hosts a variety of conferences, seminars and meetings. This portion of the Sports Complex was named after Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics. Mrs. Shriver had many memorable visits to New Jersey over the years, with her last in 2007 when she attended the dedication of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center.

a gym with exercise equipment

Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center

The Wawa Exercise & Wellness Center is the official training center for Special Olympics New Jersey athletes. Eligible athletes are encouraged to train three times a week in a Unified environment by including a friend, sibling, or parent as a training partner. The center is fully equipped with the latest cardio and fitness machines and is staffed by certified trainers and fitness professionals.

HOURS*
Monday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

*The Wawa Exercise and Wellness Center will be closed starting November 27 through November 30.  It will re-open on December 2. Closed December 18, as well as December 23 through January 4 for the holidays.

Must be at least 16 years old to train independently, athletes ages 9-15 must be accompanied by adult supervision. Athletes must have a current medical on file in order to participate

Questions?? Please contact INFO@sonj.org.

a sports field with flags

TD Sports Field

The TD Sports Field is a regulation 5v5 turf soccer field that is the first of its kind to be used exclusively for Special Olympics programs. This playing field hosts numerous events, including tournament and league play, along with individual skills and team training. It is also used extensively during the summer for Camp Shriver and for the Special Olympics New Jersey Unified Sports® program.

a basketball court with a net

RWJBarnabas Health Sports Court

The RWJBarnabas Health Sports Court consists of a full-size outdoor basketball court and three pickleball courts. Dedicated in 2021, this newly renovated multi-purpose court allows athletes to train and hone their individual or team skills and will play an important role in providing activities for campers attending Camp Shriver in the summer.

a room with tables and chairs

The Walsh Education & Family Center

This Center, also known as the Walsh Library, provides computer and internet access, lounge areas, and meeting space for athletes and their families. Throughout the year, conferences covering legal issues, health and wellness topics, sport-specific training, and other areas of interest are held here free of charge for athletes and their families.

a courtyard with a table and chairs

Champions Patio & Law Enforcement Tribute Walk

Dedicated as a living tribute to Sean Nelligan, this area of the Sports Complex is a magnificent tribute to the athletes, families, volunteers, and sponsors who have contributed to the success of Special Olympics New Jersey. The support of the Law Enforcement Torch Run community is recognized with the Law Enforcement Tribute Walk. The patio plays host to Camp Shriver, luncheons, special events, and competitions.

a basketball court with a basketball hoop

Sargent Shriver Gymnasium

Sargent Shriver, the husband of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, has been recognized as one of the greatest Americans of our time and was instrumental in the global expansion of the Special Olympics movement in the 1980s and 1990s. To honor his contributions, Special Olympics New Jersey dedicated and named the gymnasium after him. The gymnasium provides a space for training and competition for basketball and volleyball as well as Camp Shriver and Young Athletes community programs.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver: A Visionary for Inclusion and the Founder of Special Olympics

Eunice Kennedy Shriver (1921–2009) was an American social activist and philanthropist, best known for founding Special Olympics, an international organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Her groundbreaking work has had a lasting impact on millions of individuals worldwide, helping to change societal perceptions of people with disabilities and providing them with opportunities to achieve personal greatness.

Early Life and Background

Born on July 10, 1921, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Eunice was the fifth of nine children in the Kennedy family, one of America’s most prominent political families. She was the sister of John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, and Robert F. Kennedy, a U.S. Senator and presidential candidate. While her family was deeply involved in politics, Eunice’s life would take a different direction, one focused on social justice, inclusion, and advocating for those who had been marginalized by society.

Eunice’s passion for helping others was influenced in part by her sister Rosemary Kennedy, who had an intellectual disability. Eunice grew up witnessing the challenges her sister faced, and it profoundly shaped her understanding of the barriers faced by people with disabilities. Despite the Kennedy family’s wealth and social status, Rosemary was often subjected to societal stigma and exclusion, prompting Eunice to become a lifelong advocate for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Birth of Special Olympics

In the early 1960s, Eunice Kennedy Shriver recognized the lack of opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to engage in physical activity and sports. She believed in the transformative power of sport, both for physical health and for building self-esteem and confidence. In 1962, she began hosting athletic competitions for children with intellectual disabilities at her home in Maryland. These early gatherings sparked an idea — one that would change the world for people with disabilities: the Special Olympics.

In 1968, Eunice founded the first Special Olympics International Games in Chicago, where 1,000 athletes from the United States and Canada competed. This event laid the foundation for what would become an international movement, giving individuals with intellectual disabilities a chance to showcase their abilities and break down societal barriers.

Eunice’s vision was simple yet revolutionary: to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the same opportunities to participate in sports and competition as anyone else, fostering respect, inclusion, and acceptance. The Special Olympics also aimed to promote understanding and compassion between people with and without disabilities, uniting them through sport.

Expansion and Global Impact

Under Eunice’s leadership, Special Olympics expanded rapidly, growing from a small event in Chicago to an international movement. Today, Special Olympics operates in over 190 countries, serving millions of athletes and offering sports programs in areas ranging from track and field to swimming, basketball, and soccer. The organization not only provides opportunities for athletic achievement but also advocates for equal rights, dignity, and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.

The organization has also emphasized the importance of Unified Sports, a program that pairs individuals with and without intellectual disabilities on the same teams to foster mutual respect and understanding. Eunice’s commitment to inclusion, fairness, and empowerment made Special Olympics a powerful force for social change, and it remains one of her greatest legacies.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s Legacy

Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s efforts extended far beyond the creation of Special Olympics. She was also instrumental in the founding of The Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation, which worked to improve the lives of people with disabilities. She helped establish The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and was a vocal advocate for disability rights, playing a key role in pushing for the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990.

In recognition of her contributions, Eunice received numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, shortly before her passing, and the Congressional Gold Medal in 1984. She also received the Henry B. Betts Award, the Jean and Steve Case Foundation Award, and countless others, all celebrating her dedication to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Her efforts to create a more inclusive world through sports, education, and advocacy helped to change public attitudes and provide people with intellectual disabilities the chance to lead fuller, more active lives. Eunice’s vision inspired not just a movement, but a transformation in the way people think about disability and inclusion.

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center

In 2007, Special Olympics New Jersey honored Eunice’s legacy by dedicating the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Sports & Training Center, located in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. This facility is the flagship training center for Special Olympics athletes in New Jersey and serves as a space for sport, education, and community-building. The center hosts a variety of events, conferences, and programs designed to support athletes with intellectual disabilities and their families, and it continues to embody Eunice’s vision of providing opportunities for people of all abilities to participate and excel in sport.

The Lasting Impact of Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s legacy is as enduring as the mission of Special Olympics itself: to foster a world of inclusion, respect, and opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities. Through her vision and tireless dedication, Eunice not only created a movement that continues to grow but also changed the lives of millions around the world. Her work stands as a reminder that sports can be a powerful tool for social change, helping to break down barriers and bring people together. As long as Special Olympics continues to thrive, Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s legacy of empowerment and inclusion will live on.

First Arch Arrives by Barge for New Portal North Bridge

Don Lichterman
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First Arch Arrives by Barge for New Portal North Bridge

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Portal North Bridge

Photo courtesy of NJ TRANSIT

Infrastructure

On Nov 27, 2024

Following a 30-hour journey down the Hudson River, the first of three massive arches to support the new Portal North Bridge arrived at the construction site in Kearny, yesterday. The new bridge will replace the current 114-year-old swing bridge, which opens for maritime traffic and often has mechanical issues, resulting in service delays. The new structure is a fixed span bridge that eliminates the need to open and close, improving the experiences of thousands of daily commuters along the busiest stretch of passenger rail in the country.

“Today marks an important milestone for the Gateway Program with the arrival of a new arch that will help replace the century old Portal North Bridge,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “Together, we are transforming the Portal North Bridge into an access point that will provide our rail passengers with a more reliable commute, and our entire region with economic opportunity. We are now proudly one step closer to rebuilding our regional infrastructure and assuring that the most important public works project in America continues to move forward.”

Senator Cory Booker commented, “Over the last 10 years, my colleagues and I have secured nearly $1 billion in federal funding to strengthen this critical railway, the first major project under construction in the Gateway Program. I look forward to the continued progress of ongoing infrastructure upgrades across New Jersey.”

Three tugboats, a heavy transport barge and a spacer barge towed the 5 million-pound, 400-foot-long, 50-foot-wide arch down the Hudson River beginning at the Port of Coeymans near Albany, NY. Traveling an average of 5 knots (about 5.75 miles per hour) down the Hudson River, it arrived near the bridge site in Kearny 30 hours later.

The Portal North Bridge is a new modern two-track, high-level, fixed-span bridge that will rise 50 feet over the Hackensack River, more than doubling the height clearance and will allow marine traffic to pass underneath without interrupting rail traffic.

The project is being funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, New Jersey, New York, and Amtrak. In January 2021, Murphy announced the signing of a Full Funding Grant Agreement which secured $766.5 million in Federal Transit Administration funding to support the project’s construction.

In October 2021, and NJ TRANSIT announced the approval of a $1.6 billion construction contract awarded to Skanska/Traylor Bros PNB Joint Venture (STJV) for the construction of the new Portal North Bridge. The contract represents the single largest construction award in NJ TRANSIT’s history.

The project spans 2.44 miles of the Northeast Corridor line and includes construction of retaining walls, deep foundations, concrete piers, structural steel bridge spans, rail systems, demolition of the existing bridge, and related incidental works.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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Positions in Finance | New Jersey League of Municipalities

Don Lichterman
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Positions in Finance | New Jersey League of Municipalities

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Sample Position Descriptions

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Leads financial strategy for the municipality, overseeing the town budget and making suggestions for both short and long term, while considering the risks and aligning with the municipality’s overall goals. The CFO manages all financial activities, including accounting, treasury management, revenue and licensing, capital management, redevelopment finance, purchasing and related support services. 

Tax Assessor

Responsible for maintaining property assessment records and tax map, overseeing defense of tax appeals and property inspections. Often supervise administrative staff and work with the public.

Comptroller

Responsible for overseeing all accounting records, including payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, as well as preparing financial statements. A comptroller must have a thorough understanding of all accounting regulations and procedures. The position may also file federal and state taxes.

=""Typical Education Levels

High School – Master’s Degree

Certifications/Continuing Education

Several licenses are available to those wishing to pursue them in the area of municipal finance. These licenses are issued to those that complete the required coursework, and certification shows a high level of understanding of municipal finance issues and municipal law. Continued courses are required to upkeep these licenses, and benefits include the ability to apply for higher level positions with higher pay ranges. For more details on the below certifications, visit the Professional Certifications page.

Certified Municipal Finance OfficerCertified Qualified Purchasing Agent

Certified Tax AssessorCertified Tax Collector

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Projected Lineups for Blues vs Devils – 11/27/24 – The Hockey Writers – St Louis Blues

Don Lichterman
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Projected Lineups for Blues vs Devils – 11/27/24 – The Hockey Writers – St Louis Blues

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The St. Louis Blues take on the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center tonight. Here are the projected/expected lineups sourced from NHL.com staff writers, independent correspondents, and others.

BLUES (10-12-1) at DEVILS (15-7-2)

7 p.m. ET; FDSNMW, MSGSN2

Blues projected lineup

Jake Neighbours — Robert Thomas — Pavel Buchnevich
Brandon Saad — Brayden Schenn — Jordan Kyrou
Dylan Holloway — Oskar Sundqvist — Zack Bolduc
Alexey Toropchenko — Radek Faksa — Nathan Walker

Ryan Suter — Colton Parayko
Scott Perunovich — Justin Faulk
Pierre-Olivier Joseph — Matthew Kessel

Jordan Binnington
Joel Hofer

Scratched: Corey Schueneman, Alexandre Texier, Mathieu Joseph

Injured: Nick Leddy (lower body), Philip Broberg (knee)

Status report

  • The Blues held an optional morning skate Wednesday.
  • Broberg, a defenseman, skated with contact for the first time Tuesday since being injured Nov. 2, but will miss his 12th consecutive game.

Latest for THW:

Devils projected lineup

Ondrej Palat — Jack Hughes — Jesper Bratt
Paul Cotter — Nico Hischier — Stefan Noesen
Nolan Foote — Erik Haula — Dawson Mercer
Shane Bowers — Justin Dowling — Tomas Tatar

Brenden Dillon — Dougie Hamilton
Jonas Siegenthaler — Johnathan Kovacevic
Luke Hughes — Brett Pesce

Jacob Markstrom
Jake Allen

Scratched: Nick DeSimone, Kurtis MacDermid

Injured: Nathan Bastian (jaw), Curtis Lazar (knee)

Suspended: Timo Meier

Status report

  • Meier, a forward, was suspended one game for cross-checking Nashville Predators forward Zachary L’Heureux during a 5-2 win Monday.
  • Foote will replace Meier and play in his second game this season on the third line.
  • Cotter will move into Meier’s spot on left wing from the third line.

Latest for THW:

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Gottheimer Reacts to the Israel-Hezbollah Agreement

Don Lichterman
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Gottheimer Reacts to the Israel-Hezbollah Agreement

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Today, November 26, 2024, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer released the following statement in response to the negotiated agreement between Israel and Hezbollah:

“The deal announced between Israel and Hezbollah — a U.S.-designated terrorist group — is a critical and positive development. For months, the Biden Administration has been working tirelessly to ensure a deal that incorporates Israel’s security needs while ensuring Hezbollah cannot continue to violate UN resolutions 1701 and 1559. This deal will ultimately allow more than 80,000 residents to safely return home, while allowing Israeli forces to ensure the security of the state of Israel and her citizens. Let’s be clear, Israel did not launch this war and maintains the ability to protect herself if violations occur.

“We can never forget that 416 days ago, the Iranian-backed terrorist group launched a brutal campaign against our greatest democratic ally in the Middle East, Israel. Since October 8, 2023, Hezbollah has indiscriminately fired more than 12,800 rockets, mortars, and drones at Israeli cities, residents, and towns.

“This deal shows Hamas that they can be defeated, that their Iranian-backed terrorist allies are abandoning them, and that they must come back to the negotiation table.

“Moving forward, the United States must continue to support Israel in her fight against Iranian-backed forces on multiple fronts. On October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 individuals, including 46 Americans. We also cannot forget that Hamas terrorists still hold 101 innocent people hostage, including seven Americans and my constituent Edan Alexander. We will not rest until each and every one of them is returned home to their loved ones.”

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Pompton Valley Rail Trail Partially Open to the Public – Morris County, NJ

Don Lichterman
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Pompton Valley Rail Trail Partially Open to the Public – Morris County, NJ

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Published on November 15, 2024

Completion of Project Expected By Spring as Morris County Continues Work

2024 Pompton Valley Rail Trail The Pompton Valley Rail Trail, formerly known as the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway Bicycle and Pedestrian Shared Use Path, is now partially open to the public, although construction is continuing with full completion anticipated by late winter or early spring 2025.

The 4.8-mile trail project, which is federally funded, has been spearheaded by Morris County and the Morris County Park Commission, with the goal of repurposing an abandoned railway into a non-motorized recreational path stretching from Pequannock Township in Morris County to Wayne Township in Passaic County.  Proposed and in design for many years, construction of the trail began in June 2022.

“Transforming this corridor into a community asset and preserving its historical character as a rail line has been a rewarding challenge,” said Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, liaison to the Public Works Department. “We’re thrilled to see the trail open to residents and visitors who can now enjoy safe, accessible access to both natural and urban landscapes. Our work on the remaining southern section reflects our commitment to completing a first-class trail for everyone to enjoy.”

The path north of the Pompton River crossing is open to the public, with some final touches remaining. However, due to ongoing fabrication issues with railings for the Pompton River Bridge and a 2,150-foot elevated path south of Ryerson Avenue, the southern portion in Wayne Township remains closed. The community is urged to refrain from crossing these features, as it poses a significant safety concern without the railings in place.

Ultimately, the path will feature a 10-foot-wide paved surface, beginning at River Drive in Pequannock near Route 23, connecting with the township’s Aquatic Park and extending south to Mountainview Boulevard near NJ Transit’s Mountain View rail station in Wayne.

2024 Pompton Valley Rail Trail Rock Snake Various safety improvements have been installed at intersections with active roadways, including advanced warning signs, painted alerts on the road and trail, and detectable warning surfaces to assist visually impaired users. ADA-accessible features have also been included at intersections and integrated where feasible along the trail. Key intersections, such as Alexander Avenue, Jackson Avenue, and Newark-Pompton Turnpike, have been equipped with Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons to enhance crossing safety.

While these improvements were made to enhance visibility and provide advanced warnings at crossings, path users are still highly encouraged to come to a full stop and look both ways before crossing any intersection.

Morris County’s Department of Engineering will continue to address inquiries about the trail’s construction, and the Morris County Park Commission can be contacted regarding general maintenance of the completed sections.

###

Photo 1: A scenic shot of the Pompton Valley Rail Trail during fall 2024.

Photo 2: The stone snake continues to grow on the Pompton Valley Rail Trail.

 

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Municipal Leaders Claim Public Engagement is Largest Asset to Lead Replacement Efforts

Don Lichterman
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Municipal Leaders Claim Public Engagement is Largest Asset to Lead Replacement Efforts

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June 24th, 2024 by New Jersey Future staff

By Andrea Jovie Sapal and Deandrah Cameron

“We collectively work towards a future where every resident in New Jersey has access to clean, safe, and lead-free drinking water by fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge through innovation,” declared Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, as he opened the lead service line replacement session at the 2024 Planning and Redevelopment Conference. This session focused on a critical environmental justice issue that demands our urgent attention—the presence of lead in drinking water in New Jersey. 

Lead service lines (LSLs) account for 75% of all lead in drinking water exposure and are particularly harmful to formula-fed infants and children under six. New Jersey leads the way in LSL replacement with one of the strongest mandates across the country. In 2023 NJ was designated by the Biden Administration as one of four states participating in the US Environmental Protection Agency’s LSL Replacement Accelerator program, in part for NJ’s aggressive approach to service line replacement and emphasis on planning and municipal coordination. Last month, the EPA announced that NJ will receive $123 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The cost estimate for LSL replacement in NJ is roughly $3 billion. 

Although funding is a major issue, engaging customers proves to be the most difficult hurdle. Moderator Richard Calbi stated, “The bulk of the financial burden will fall on water systems, resulting in increased water rates for consumers.” Consumers, i.e. regular households and businesses that pay for water, are the biggest stakeholders and face the burden of paying for their lead lines as water systems design replacement programs. While some programs offer free replacement, most systems will charge a cost. According to one report, a single LSL replacement could cost on average $6000 with high costs over $9,000—accounting for the cost of living differences, unique building or pavement materials, paving requirements, and unique permit fees. Speakers Kouao-eric Ekoue, Superintendent, City of New Brunswick Water Utility; Noemi de la Puente, Principal Engineer, Trenton Water Works; and Stephen Marks, Town Administrator, Town of Kearny shared their expertise on the state and federal partnerships, cost reduction strategies, and community engagement at the “Leading the Way: Cost-Saving Solutions for Coordinating Lead Service Line Replacement with Municipal Projects and Processes” session.

Featured speakers Kouao-eric Ekoue of New Brunswick Water Utility and Noemi de la Puente of Trenton Water Works (TWW) represent two of NJ’s accelerator cities (more below). State support for local assistance is critical for advancing LSL replacement projects. In conjunction with the federal LSL Replacement Accelerator program, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) launched NJ-TAP, an initiative providing enhanced technical assistance for disadvantaged communities to provide safe and reliable drinking water to residents. New Brunswick Water Utility leverages both federal and state programs to assist in changing ordinances, accessing funds through the SRF program and bonds, integrating data validation tools, and self-testing and electronic identification surveys as part of community outreach. On the topic of effective strategies to gain community support, Ekoue stated that his administration is fully involved in the process, emphasizing the importance of municipal engagement early on since without that buy-in, the projects are not going to go anywhere fast. 

New Jersey’s ten federal LSL Replacement Accelerator cities include: 

  • Blackwood 
  • Camden
  • Clementon
  • East Newark
  • Harrison 
  • Keansburg
  • Keyport
  • New Brunswick
  • Trenton
  • Ventnor City

LSL replacement can be challenging for water systems that serve multiple municipalities where program planning looks different for each locality. This type of coordination and cross-collaboration requires ingenuity; moderator Rich Calbi noted, ”We must explore innovative strategies and best practices to help municipalities navigate these challenges effectively and alleviate the burdens placed on residents as we work toward compliance with this vital mandate”. The City of Trenton serves five municipalities: Trenton, Ewing, Hamilton, Lawrence, and Hopewell, each requiring a unique approach. 

Trenton Water Works’ engineer Noemi de la Puente discussed challenges and potential solutions around the Three Ps: Paving, Policing, and Permitting. Each municipality has different paving jurisdictions, and without coordination, replacements could be unnecessarily costly. In 2022, when de la Puente inherited the program from her predecessor, she asked, “How are we going to reshape the TWW LSL replacement program overall at a rate that isn’t expensive?”. Some potential cost-saving solutions de la Puente is looking to explore include streamlining the hyperlocal permitting process by coordinating LSL replacement plans with paving projects associated with sewer maintenance plans, main replacements, and other paving projects across jurisdictions. Since funding is a challenge, de la Puenta emphasizes that partnering with these projects would allow the leverage of Clean Water State Revolving and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds as well as funds allocated through the NJ-Moves program for paving projects. To date, de la Puente mentions needing a total of 961 permits totaling $111,476, concluding that these fees could be significantly lower with coordinating across programs.

De la Puente stressed that the strongest collaboration TWW can form is with their customers because they require access to 62,000 basements to identify lead service lines. The faster they can identify the inventory, the quicker they can complete the project. “If I [knew] my entire inventory next week, the rest of my lead service line replacement project will go much more smoothly,” concluded de la Puente. 

If I [knew] my entire inventory next week, the rest of my lead service line replacement project will go much more smoothly. 

—Noemi de la Puente of Trenton Water Works

The Town of Kearny also utilized an ordinance to develop a free and mandatory program coupled with a cost reduction that includes combining the town’s resurfacing program with its LSL replacement program. However, Marks expressed that it won’t happen all at once “Given the density of digging test pits every 25 to 40 or 50 feet, it made the most sense for the town of Kearny to incorporate the lead service line replacement into the road resurfacing program. The town has a moratorium on digging up any streets that have been paved within the last five years, so we’re actually focused on all the streets that haven’t been paved on the outer end of 10 to 15 years or more.” This means depending on when the road was last paved, customers may have to wait years before the replacements are scheduled to begin. To mitigate this, the Mayor and Council also passed supplementary ordinances to reimburse all customers who coordinate their own replacement should they decide to move ahead of the town’s schedule. 

“100% of the census tract for the Town of Kearny is considered overburdened by the state of New Jersey,” and about half (46%) of the town is considered low-moderate income

—Stephen Marks, Town of Kearny

Overburdened communities often struggle to pay cost shares. Town of Kearny Administrator Stephen Marks highlighted that “100% of the census tract for the Town of Kearny is considered overburdened by the state of New Jersey,” and about half (46%) of the town is considered low-moderate income. The Town of Kearny also utilized funding through the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) as an alternative source of funding through which a portion of the town became eligible based on census tract and income level. Marks explained that funding is a constant challenge and that municipalities are constantly deciding between the lengthy SRF process that may offer the potential for principal forgiveness or choosing to engage in the private market which could be more costly but quicker. In response to the notice of the $123 million in federal funding, Marks stated that municipalities have a decision to make as regards timeliness and meeting the 2031 goal. For example, he explained that an $8 million project is a trade-off between a “six-month” I-Bank application process with the hope of possible principal forgiveness compared to self-financing through the private market where there is no principal forgiveness but saves time. In addition to funding and coordination Marks also shared similar challenges to his fellow panelists around property access, expressing that residents typically do not want the town accessing basements or private spaces especially where they potentially have an unpermitted conversion of the basements.

The overlapping theme among the municipal leaders was that community engagement is extremely important, especially in overburdened communities where customers face a number of challenges, including cost sharing for LSL replacement. Partnerships with community groups and local leaders play a pivotal role in the successful replacement of LSLs and facilitating coordination between different jurisdictions and projects. The ultimate objective of achieving lead-free drinking water necessitates a multi sector approach that offers cost-effective solutions. Cooperation among various local, regional, and state leaders is crucial for effective implementation. The Primer for Mayors outlines ten efficient measures for LSL replacement and guides municipal officials on how to initiate this process in their community. This Jersey Water Works resource is a prime example of an initiative that supports all municipalities by providing the necessary tools and strategies for effectively replacing lead service lines. By July 10, 2024, water systems must submit their updated annual inventories and LSL progress reports. This increased transparency and communication are crucial steps towards addressing the ongoing issue of lead in drinking water. 

To learn more about Jersey Water Works and the Lead in Drinking Water Taskforce, join us at the July 17th membership meeting in person. Registration is free, attendees do not need to be a member of the collaborative to attend. Register today! For more information contact Jersey Water Works  (infoatjerseywaterworksdotorg)  .

Posted in Water and Sewer, Water Infrastructure

Tags: 2024 NJ Planning and Redevelopment Conference, Funding for Lead Service Line Replacement, lead, Lead free New Jersey, lead in drinking water, lead in water, lead pipe replacement, lead service line, lead service line replacement, New Jersey planning and redevelopment conference



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Millburn Deli Coming to Jersey City; Hoboken’s Beloved Losurdo’s to Close

Don Lichterman
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Millburn Deli Coming to Jersey City; Hoboken’s Beloved Losurdo’s to Close

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Openings

Millburn Deli, Jersey City

The popular Millburn Deli is expanding into Hudson County. A new location, the deli’s fifth, will open in 2025 in Jersey City’s Exchange Place neighborhood. The deli first opened in 1946 and is considered one of the best in the state. The company said a Bridgewater location may be coming soon, too.

Gregorys Coffee, Old Bridge

The NYC-based specialty coffee shop is expanding its footprint with an impending opening in Old Bridge. The new location will have a drive-thru window. Conceptualized by New Jersey native Gregory Zamfotis, Gregorys Coffee brews coffee every 30 minutes, bakes fresh pastries in-house daily, and pours custom latte art for customers. As a bonus, the shop doesn’t charge for milk alternatives—meaning guests can enjoy oat-milk lattes or almond-milk matchas at no additional cost.

Willow & Whisk, Millburn

Willow & Whisk in Millburn

Photo: Dia Ciccone/Courtesy of Willow & Whisk

This new breakfast and lunch spot puts a fun spin on breakfast and lunch favorites, such as mini brioche French toast, frittata bites, and mini lemon-ricotta poppers. Their original location remais in Wyckoff.

Closings

Losurdo’s Italian Deli & Bread Bakery, a beloved family-owned business in Hoboken since 1975, has announced its closure. “It’s with a heavy heart that we share our family business, Losurdo Brothers…will be closing its doors on Sunday, December 8, 2024,” the owners wrote on Instagram. “It has been an incredible 50 years serving the people of Hoboken and beyond.” The Losurdo brothers came to New Jersey from Italy; they operated at the same Hoboken location since their founding.

[RELATED: Hungry? Fuhgeddaboudit! These Are Hoboken’s Best Italian Bakeries, Delis and Restaurants]

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Just Jersey: The Small Business Saturday super store

Don Lichterman
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Just Jersey: The Small Business Saturday super store

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If you ever wondered whether the ‘Small Business Saturday’ initiative was more than just a marketing slogan — whether it actually had a bottom-line impact on business — ask the owners of the most unique store in the state.

Better yet, stop by ‘Just Jersey’ — the retail store just off the Morristown Green that sells products with a Jersey theme, or items created by New Jersey residents. The store, at 163 South Street, will be packed.

So said Paul Miller, who co-owns Just Jersey with Tina Bologna.

Co-owners Paul Miller, left, and Tina Bologna in front of their retail shop.

“It’s one of our biggest days of the year,” he said. “It far exceeds Black Friday for us. Friday is the malls and the big box; Saturday is for places like us.”

The truth is, there is no place quite like Just Jersey.

Consider the contents: Jersey-themed items abound, starting with coasters (name the theme or the star and it has it) are a big hit. As are the numerous food items (think pasta shaped like the state, Jersey Girl chocolate bars, handcrafted cookie mixes). There are T-shirts, jewelry, pillows, signs of all shapes and sizes (even a few made out of pieces of license plates, yellow and blue).

There are plenty of holiday ornaments, too.

The level of unique offerings never ceases to amaze: Where else could you get a ‘Real Housewives of Morris Plains’ apron?

It’s the reason why Just Jersey is a favorite of TV stations looking for a stand-up spot this holiday season — especially on Small Business Saturday.

Miller and Bologna offer another reason: Their store is not just about them – but the multitude of small business merchants from around the state who have their products on display there.

“We have more than 300 small businesses under one roof,” Miller said. “That’s who you are supporting when you shop here.”

Don’t be confused: While the concept of the store started as a holiday gift idea at the school where Miller and Bologna both had a child attending, Just Jersey is a 365-day operation. It has been since 2015.

And while Just Jersey is a small business, it courts big business.

Just Jersey has long been a go-to spot for corporate gift-giving, providing just the right ‘Welcome to Jersey’ gift box for any occasion. (Figure boxes cost between $75-$150 a piece.)

Boston Consulting Group and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield have long been customers, using the uniquely Jersey boxes as both onboarding items and holiday gifts.

In the past few years, realtors have discovered the store, often using its boxes as welcome gifts for new homeowners and thank you gifts for the sellers.

Just Jersey: What’s selling

A look at some of the top items at Just Jersey (located on South Street in Morristown) and the names of the merchant who created it.

1. Handcrafted Cookie mixes and decadent hot cocoa varieties
Dry Goods Refillery, Montclair
A one-stop shop for all of your grocery needs and gourmet foods, package and plastic-free including bulk foods, produce, dairy, home cleaning products and more.

2. Cocktail Infusions
On the Rocks Cocktail Infusions, East Hanover
Two bartenders took their skills to mixing drink infusions during Covid, when On the Rocks was launched. From classics like Old Fashioned to seasonal creations like Peppermint Espresso-Tini, they make wonderful gifts to spread holiday cheer this season.

3. Handcrafted soap
Mt. Lebanon Soap, Port Murray
The company creates beautiful natural cold process soaps with pure plant-based oils, essential oils and phthalate free fragrances. A small, family-run business, Mt. Lebanon Soap Company was established to support adorable daughter, Summer, born with Down Syndrome. In addition to providing her valuable life and work skills, as she grows, the proceeds are set aside into a special needs trust to secure a stable future.

4. New Jersey and town-themed Handmade Ornaments
Variety of makers
From wood to embroidery to pottery there are an array of handmade ornaments to choose from. The store offers ornaments that represent New Jersey, your hometown, or commemorate a special moment (first home, newlyweds or new baby).

5. Holiday and Shore-themed Glassware
Marissa Nailed It, Rockaway
Everyone has more room in their cabinet for these glasses. Made with non-toxic/food safe epoxy resin with designs that mimic ocean waves, New Jersey shapes, and holiday themes in the bottom of the glass. They are beautiful to display and use.

6. Beach Sand Jewelry
Jersey State Line, Namasand and Northern Tides
If you love the Shore (and who doesn’t?), this jewelry line incorporates actual beach sand into the design of bracelets, necklaces and rings. Together they provide a range of price points and options to satisfy every customer.

7. Handcrafted Pottery
Multiple Potters
Featuring the handcrafted work of multiple New Jersey based potters, our pottery provides functional, one-of-a-kind gift options at multiple price points. From mugs to berry bowls to a variety of serving pieces there are many beautiful options to choose from.

8. Holiday Linens
Happenstance Creations, Glen Ridge
Artist Susan Krien has created a creative and eco-conscious brand that is built on her love for the garden and nature. Her designs are based on her colorful, original art that is transferred through a printing process to the various fabrics or paper. Each year, Susan offers new holiday designs that make wonderful gifts throughout the seasons.

The uniqueness of the store has given it a global appeal. Yes, they send Jersey-themed items as far away as New Zealand.

Miller estimates on-line sales make up about 15% of all sales. And while he and Bologna would like to increase that number, they know it comes with challenges. Remember, this is a small business.

“We’re not Amazon,” Miller said. “We don’t have distribution centers; we don’t have free shipping, and we can’t turnaround orders in one day.”

They can, however, do whatever small businesses are best at: Add a personal touch.

Each shipped item comes with a hand-written note from Bologna, the only one of the two who has legible handwriting, they joke.

That personal touch is why the store figures to be jumping on Small Business Saturday – one of three huge days for the store.

The other two? National New Jersey Day (July 27) and Christmas Eve.

“Trust me, on Dec. 24, we’ll have plenty of men with their faces pressed up against the door, searching for that unique last-minute gift,” Miller jokes.

Miller and Bologna will gladly take the sale. They’ve got the goods. It’s why they are such a small business success story.



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CRDA To Hear Planning Applications For AC Marijuana Growing Facility And Three Dispensaries

Don Lichterman
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CRDA To Hear Planning Applications For AC Marijuana Growing Facility And Three Dispensaries

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Three new retail cannabis dispensaries and one 125,000-foot cannabis growing facility are seeking permission to open in Atlantic City. The dispensaries are looking to occupy existing buildings that were previously a soup kitchen, a check-cashing location and a video rental store, while the growing facility would be a newly-constructed building covering most of a city block. The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, the state body that oversees planning in Atlantic City’s tourism and business districts, will hold a public hearing on Sept. 15 to discuss the plans (an earlier hearing on Aug. 18 was postponed).

A company called Starboard Enterprises is seeking to build a cannabis growing facility just two blocks from the retail outlets known as The Walk. The company is proposing building a class 1 and class 2 facility on the 1700 block of Atlantic Ave, between Indiana and Martin Luther King Avenues, with parking for 75 vehicles. The project’s investors include Jon Cohn and Craig McHugh who run a growing facility in Exton, PA called Agri-Kind. Part of the site is city-owned property that would be conveyed to the owners of the project under a city ordinance. The owners could not immediately be reached for comment.

CRDA will also hear an application to open a marijuana dispensary at the former video rental store at 3112 Atlantic Avenue, between Montpelier and Chelsea Avenues. That application is from a company called Legal Distribution which names four local owners from Absecon, Egg Harbor Township, Margate and Atlantic City. The owners did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

Everest Dispensary, meanwhile, is seeking approval to open a dispensary at 1226 Atlantic Avenue between South Carolina and South Chalfonte Aves, replacing a check-cashing office. The project is backed by owners in Oxnard, California, who did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Ron Seagraves, the owner of 1226 Atlantic Ave, said he was not connected with the California-based investors but that he understood they already operate dispensaries there. “I was surprised that they approached me and they want to buy my building where I’ve been operating a check cashing store for 30 years,” he said, adding that he believed it was a perfect site within the permitted zone for cannabis locations. “Anything where somebody’s improving Atlantic City [and] spending money is probably going to be good for the city,” he said, adding that he hoped it would be approved.

PG Health is looking to open a dispensary at the former site of Sister Jean’s soup kitchen at Victory First Presbyterian Church, which was condemned two years ago. Sister Jean’s soup kitchen was moved further north along Pennsylvania Ave to Saint Monica’s church but it has not yet been able to reopen because the building needs substantial repair work. PG Health’s dispensary application is backed by two women from Cherry Hill who did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Atlantic City council on Wednesday heard an ordinance that would expand the list of “permitted cannabis establishment locations.”



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Pet Licensing & Permits | Cherry Hill Township, NJ

Don Lichterman
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Pet Licensing & Permits | Cherry Hill Township, NJ

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License Applications

Pets must be registered with the Township annually. You can apply online or via mail by printing the application. Applications must be accompanied by a copy of the current rabies vaccination certificate. Rabies Certificate must be valid through October 31st of the license year. If the certificate is not valid through October 31st, the license cannot be processed. 

Dog Licenses are valid January 1st through December 31st and are not prorated.

Cat Licenses are valid August 1st through July 31st and are not prorated.

CHIP apply now II

Pet License Application (PDF)

Fees


 Initial License License Renewal License Renewal Late
Neutered $22.20 $22.20 $47.20
Not Neutered $25.20 $25.20 $50.20

Renewal Dates

Dogs – January 1st
Late fee assessed after February 1st.
Cats – August 1st.
Late fee assessed after September 1st.

Rabies Clinic

Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Department of Public Works Complex, 1 Perina Blvd. 

Dogs and/or cats must be over 3 months

New Jersey requires all dogs to be licensed and inoculated against rabies. Cherry Hill Township will also be registering dogs for the 2025 calendar year.

Additional Information

For additional information, please contact the Municipal Clerk’s Office by calling 856-488-7892.

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Horse-Caring Helps Veterans With PTSD : Newsroom

Don Lichterman
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Horse-Caring Helps Veterans With PTSD : Newsroom

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Veterans with PTSD in a Rutgers pilot study, including U.S. Army Lt. Colonel Eric “Moose” Petrevich (at right), found working with horses eased their symptoms. Equine specialist Jane Burrows (left) of Special Strides coaches Lt. Col. Petrevich with a specially trained horse. Petrevich wears an electromyography sensor that measures stress. Photo credit: Kyle Hartmann/Rutgers Equine Science Center.

A study by Rutgers University-New Brunswick researchers has shown that military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), who participated in a program caring for horses, experienced an improved mental outlook and easing of symptoms.

Reporting results of the study in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry, researchers said the insights could open the door to a new approach in mental health treatment for veterans, as many currently drop out of conventional therapy programs even though they have been shown to be effective.

“When I think about what our veterans with PTSD struggle with, the results make sense,” said Andrea Quinn, an author of the study and assistant director of the Center for Psychological Services in the Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP).

“Some of the most widely used psychotherapy interventions for PTSD … have shown that about one-third of participants drop out prior to the completion of treatment. This number is even higher in military veteran populations – somewhere between 50 and 60 percent – and therefore, studies looking at alternative treatments are valuable.” Andrea Quinn.

Veterans with PTSD often dwell in the past, she said, and exhibit a hypervigilance to what is going on around them and what might be coming.

“In the study, the veterans had to perform tasks requiring them to be very much in the moment,” Quinn said. “They were keeping themselves calm, and centering on the activity that was right in front of them – talking with the horses, brushing them, leading them. This kind of present-moment focus is a skill that can be developed and may help the symptoms of PTSD to feel more manageable.”

Ellen Rankins, the first author on the paper and a doctoral student at the time, worked closely with the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Rankins recruited nine veterans to the study, all of whom had served in combat. Six were monitored as they engaged in equine-assisted activity, a horsemanship program where professionals guide people through activities with horses to enhance human physical and mental health.

For purposes of comparison, a control group of the remaining three veterans continued their normal, everyday activities without any visits to the farm.  

“We wanted to understand the effects of the interactions on the veterans and the horses, especially in terms of their physiological and behavioral responses during eight sessions,” said Rankins, now a postdoctoral associate at the Temple Grandin Equine Center at Colorado State University.

The study was conducted in 2022 by the Rutgers Equine Science Center, a part of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station in New Brunswick, N.J. The researchers partnered with the organization, Special Strides in Monroe Township, which is where the study took place. Special Strides representatives provided the facilities, staff and trained horses. 

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Eric “Moose” Petrevich finishes up an equine assisted services session as part of a study on a new treatment for veterans with PTSD. Photo credit:
Kyle Hartmann/Rutgers Equine Science Center.

To start, participants completed questionnaires and reported any recent symptoms of PTSD, which may include flashbacks of traumatic events, anger outbursts, feelings of being under attack and sleep difficulties. They underwent blood tests checking for hormone concentrations involved in the stress response – norepinephrine, epinephrine and cortisol – as well as oxytocin, which promotes positive feelings. Those concentrations were measured twice more, midway through the study and at its conclusion.

Some of the veterans had never seen a horse up close before. They were taught how to communicate with their assigned horse as well as basic horse grooming techniques and how to lead a horse using a halter and lead.

Rankins said the participants’ military training helped them ease into the program.

“They are used to having that chain of command in place and understanding that ‘I am the leader, I need to be telling the horse where to go. And he’s looking to me for that,’” Rankins said.

Concentrations of stress hormones in the participating veterans, the researchers found, were high at the beginning of the sessions but decreased over time. Oxytocin concentrations remained the same. Participants reported having fewer PTSD symptoms after the program concluded. In contrast, hormone concentrations and PTSD symptoms among human members of the control group remained high throughout.

“Veterans reported more positive interactions with their horses starting in week 3 and this change was retained through the end of the sessions,” Rankins said.

In addition, scientists conducting the research also found preliminary evidence of a phenomenon known as co-regulation, in which the body rhythms of the veterans and the horses they worked with started to sync. Rankins said she plans to conduct a more detailed investigation of this occurrence.

Veterans in the control group also were permitted to take the horsemanship course after finishing the eight-week study period.  

The horses in the horsemanship exercises showed no symptoms of stress when compared with horses separated from the sessions, said Karyn Malinowski, a co-author of the study and a professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

“This is important because there is an increasing amount of concern among the general population for equine welfare,” said Malinowski, also the Founding Director of the Rutgers Equine Science Center. “The research demonstrated that horses involved in this activity did not display any indicators of stress.”

On average, PTSD is slightly more common among veterans than civilians, according to the National Center for PTSD in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. At some point, seven out of every 100 veterans will have PTSD. In the general population, six out of every 100 adults will have PTSD in their lifetime.

However, the number of veterans with PTSD varies by service era. Surveys conducted by the VA show that veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom based in Afghanistan have the highest rates of PTSD, with 29 percent of its veterans experiencing it at some point. The group with the second highest rate of PTSD, according to VA studies, are veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, with 21 percent experiencing PTSD.

Research also shows that deployment increases the risk of PTSD.

Sadly, veterans often have more difficulty than civilians with treatment programs, according to Quinn, who works with veterans in her capacity as director of the Rutgers Anxiety Disorders Clinic, a specialty clinic under the umbrella of GSAPP’s Center for Psychological Services.

“Some of the most widely used psychotherapy interventions for PTSD, such as Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy, have shown that about one-third of participants drop out prior to the completion of treatment,” Quinn said. “This number is even higher in military veteran populations – somewhere between 50 and 60 percent – and therefore, studies looking at alternative treatments are valuable.”

The researchers plan to extend their studies from this pilot study to gain more data to further validate the equine approach.

“Studies like this are important because information on the effectiveness of different interventions for PTSD is used in guiding policy and funding decisions,” Rankins said. “Having data to support the efficacy of incorporating horses into treatments for PTSD makes it more likely that these types of interventions are available for veterans and others who face PTSD.

This article first appeared in Rutgers Today.



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Bite into this professor’s podcast on the enduring allure of vampires

Don Lichterman
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Bite into this professor’s podcast on the enduring allure of vampires

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English professor Harriet Hustis is an expert on the eerie.

She studies gothic literature from the 18th–21st century, and has published scholarship on Dracula, Frankenstein, and Jekyll and Hyde.

In June, she bit into something even scarier to her than horror novels and tried to take her monster scholarship into newer technology. So, long before Halloween season, Hustis spent a week learning about podcasting, content creation, and technology through the National Humanities Center’s Virtual Podcasting Institute.

Podcast cover art: The Call is Coming from Inside the House

Out of this experience came a hair-raising podcast episode on the blood-sucking creatures who have populated our scary stories for centuries, from Count Dracula and Carmilla to Edward Cullen and Stefan Salvatore. In the episode, Hustis and three other college professors from across the country discuss the evolution of vampire storytelling.

Here, Hustis talks about fear — of both monsters and podcasting.

Q: ’Tis the season for your scholarship. As we bite into our Halloween candy, what should we know about gothic literature?

A: From the start, gothic literature was a genre associated with suspense, secrets, mysteries, and the macabre. As time went on, works of gothic literature became populated with strange and dangerous figures — monsters, demons, witches, sociopaths, and, of course, vampires.

At its core, the genre of the gothic is about the confrontation between innocence and whatever a particular culture identifies as “evil” or “dangerous.”

 Q: What’s the allure of vampires, in particular?

A: Vampires offer a way for us — as readers or viewers — to confront the things that unnerve us. While horror is typically about what terrifies us, what makes vampires and the gothic interesting is that we’re simultaneously frightened and curious — they always operate at an intersection between fear and desire. You can see this over and over again in vampire stories: characters who want to run away, but don’t — or at least not until it’s too late.

Q: Scary. But how do they reflect our desires?

A: Vampires are linked to the aristocracy and wealth. They function in a world of castles or mansions. Even a figure like Twilight’s Edward Cullen is basically an aristocrat of teen culture: he’s mysterious and good-looking and is out enjoying things that others who lack power and privilege don’t have access to. Money and (male) power are measures of “value.”

The popularity of vampires has ultimately shifted the way they’re represented: they’re still “other” and “different,” but we’ve also appropriated that “difference” because that’s what patriarchal, imperialist, and capitalist cultures always seek to do — to claim for ourselves whatever appears to be powerful.

Q: What is more frightening: the monsters you study or learning how to produce a podcast?

A. The scariest thing about podcasting is really the same scary thing that accompanies any attempt to put your ideas and your “voice” out in the world. You think you’ll “sound stupid,” that you’ll say the wrong thing, or that the ideas that interest you will bore everyone else.

I was really lucky because I was randomly assigned to a team of fellow podcasters who shared my interests, so we quickly created a space where we were able to bounce ideas off of each other and feel supported. The challenge, of course, was that we also had to learn the technology and create the content simultaneously — I was really glad that we were able to find ways to laugh and have fun while doing that.

— Corinne Coakley ’25

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Ballamor Golf Club

Don Lichterman
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Ballamor Golf Club

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Ballamor Golf Club

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“A Pocketful of Christmas” by The NEW Bardōts

Don Lichterman
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“A Pocketful of Christmas” by The NEW Bardōts

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By Bob Makin

originally published: 11/29/2024

The Makin Waves Song of the Week is “A Pocketful of Christmas,” a fifth holiday single in as many years by the all-star band The NEW Bardōts and the title track of their new holiday EP. PHOTO COURTESY OF BONGO  BOY RECORDS

​​​​​​​The air cooling, the wind blowing, and leaves falling down signal the time for The NEW Bardōts to keep a band tradition alive by releasing a new holiday song.

Complete with tubular bells and an angelic choir mixed with a gentle touch of rock ‘n’ roll, the original “A Pocketful of Christmas” is the Makin Waves Song of the Week.

As the Makin Waves Song of the Week, “A Pocketful of Christmas” also can be heard between 6 and 8 p.m. on Nov. 29 on “Radio Jersey” at ThePenguinRocks.com. If you miss it, you can tune in any time in the archives at The Penguin and Mixcloud.

With “A Pocketful Of Christmas,” the band said they hope to bring out the spirit of the holidays to listeners of all ages.

Advertise with NJ Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info

Written by vocalist-harmonicist Wayne Olivieri and guitarist Gar Francis, recorded by bassist Dan Skye and produced by all three at Dan’s legendary Skylab Studios in Roosevelt, the track also features drummer Johnnie Rago and keyboardist John Croot.

“A Pocketful Of Christmas” is the fifth NEW Bardōts holiday song in as many years and the title track of a new EP that also features the other four: “Santa Don’t Like Politics,” If Santa Clause Were President,” “Never Too Much Christmas,” and a cover of The Band’s “Christmas Must Be Tonight,” which was a Coolest Song in the World on Little Steven’s Underground Garage last year. The good rockin’ collection on Bongo Boy Records is full of fun holiday cheer!

While there isn’t a video for the “A Pocketful of Christmas” single, the band have done astonishingly well in that department with the clip for “Corporation Businessman.” The video for the biting socio-economic satire has won 19 awards, including Best Music Video at Cannes Continental Film Festival and Calcutta International Cult Film Festival and from Luis Bunuel Memorial Awards and Royal Society of Television & Motion Picture Awards.

For more about The NEW Bardōts, click https://bongoboyrecords.com/thenewbardots.

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.

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2025 holiday beach badge sale starts Dec. 2 – Star News Group

Don Lichterman
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2025 holiday beach badge sale starts Dec. 2 – Star News Group

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LAVALLETTE — The borough of Lavallette is beginning its annual holiday beach badge sale next week, just in time for the winter holiday season.

From Monday, Dec. 2, to Tuesday, Dec. 31, beach badges for 2025 will be available for purchase at the municipal building — either as a Christmas gift for loved ones, or for bathers who simply wish to get their badges early.

Regular season badges for people ages 12 and up will be available for $60, while discounted senior badges will cost $20. Kids ages 12 and under do not need a beach badge.

The badge sales will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays during the sale, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Saturdays of Dec. 7, Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. The sale will not run on Sundays or on Saturday, Dec. 28. Only walk-in sales will be accepted Visa, MasterCard and Discover card payments can be accepted, with a 3% charge added. American Express will not be accepted.

The Lavallette municipal building is located at 1306 Grand Central Ave.

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

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

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

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Partnership to Accelerate Supply Chain Ecosystem for Energy Storage Solutions

Don Lichterman
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Partnership to Accelerate Supply Chain Ecosystem for Energy Storage Solutions

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handshake

Energy

On Nov 27, 2024

Edison-based Eos Energy Enterprises, Inc., a provider of zinc-based long duration energy storage systems, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Wabash, a provider of advanced engineering and operational solutions for the transportation, logistics, and distribution industries. The proposed partnership would accelerate Eos’ ability to deliver large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) through Wabash’s manufacturing and supply chain expertise and national distribution network.

“Partnering with a powerhouse like Wabash has the potential to transform the market for American manufactured battery energy storage solutions,” said Eos’ Chief Executive Officer Joe Mastrangelo. “We believe this partnership would disrupt a historically inefficient and fragmented supply chain and transform it into a seamless, scalable, and highly integrated ecosystem. With Wabash, we would be able to more efficiently scale our operations and offer customers unmatched reliability and performance, while breaking the boundaries of what is available at the system level today.”

Brent Yeagy, president and CEO of Wabash, added: “The opportunity with Eos allows us to utilize our strengths in operations, strategic sourcing, manufacturing system design, and logistics to help drive innovation in the energy storage market. By streamlining Eos’ supply chain and leveraging our network and operational expertise, we can provide Eos with critical scale and support to match surging market demand for advanced battery storage technologies.”

According to Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables, U.S. energy storage deployments are projected to reach 251 GWh over the next four years, on average 2x the current rate of deployments today, driven primarily by large utility-scale projects. With Eos’ ZnythTM technology at the core of its Z3 battery module and Wabash’s robust logistical support and infrastructure, the proposed partnership is expected to significantly scale BESS manufacturing to meet growing industry demand for world-class, fully integrated, and cost-effective energy storage solutions.

The non-binding MOU outlines a strategic framework for developing a potential partnership focused on streamlining supply chain processes, while deploying advanced operational capabilities that are designed to significantly improve the Eos’ systems footprint density. As Eos continues to innovate and expand, this partnership is expected to set a new standard for how BESS are designed, distributed, and delivered, offering a seamless solution that meets the energy needs of the future.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

Related Articles:

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Library Science | New Jersey League of Municipalities

Don Lichterman
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Library Science | New Jersey League of Municipalities

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Sample Position Descriptions

Librarian

Responsible for managing and delivering library services and resources to the community. This role oversees library operations and curating collections. A librarian also provides assistance to library patrons and plans and organizes community programs and events.

Circulation Manager

Oversees the daily operations of the library’s circulation department, ensuring efficient and effective management of library materials and services. This role involves supervising staff, managing circulation processes, and enhancing user experiences.

=""Typical Education Levels

High School – Master’s Degrees

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Blues’ Quick Start Propels Them to 3-0 Win Over Devils – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

Don Lichterman
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Blues’ Quick Start Propels Them to 3-0 Win Over Devils – The Hockey Writers – NHL News

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The New Jersey Devils and St. Louis Blues met for the first time this season at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Jacob Markstrom was honored for his 500th game with a ceremony before puck drop. He received a Rolex and a silver stick to commemorate the accomplishment. Unfortunately for Markstrom, the happiness didn’t last long, as the Blues won 3-0. The Devils have continued a strange trend: winning 11 of their last 15, but all four losses were shutouts. Jordan Binnington stopped all 30 in this one, his first shutout of the season. He became the Blues’ all-time win leader, surpassing Mike Liut with his 152nd victory.

The Devils gave up a goal to Robert Thomas just 11 seconds in. It’s hard to fault Markstrom, though – Nico Hischier was tripped, which led to a 2-on-1, but it wasn’t called. Afterward, Sheldon Keefe said, “In my opinion, there was a missed call there.”

That seemed to deflate the Devils. Dylan Holloway scored about six minutes later on the power play to double the Blues’ lead. Ten minutes after that, Holloway scored again after Markstrom let up a juicy rebound. At the end of the first, the Blues had a 3-0 lead and Markstrom had stopped minus-2.34 goals above expected (via Natural Stat Trick).

In the second period, the play completely flipped, but the Devils had nothing to show for it. The Devils outshot the Blues 11-1 in the frame, but Binnington stood on his head. The score remained 3-0 after two.

The beginning of the third period was more of the same – the Devils dominated time of possession but couldn’t find twine. In fact, the Blues went over 24 minutes without registering a single shot on goal. The Blues finally got back on the shot counter, but the rest of the game was a snooze fest. The Blues were perfectly content with that, riding it all the way to their second straight victory under coach Jim Montgomery.

The Blues have improved to 11-12-1 on the season; the Devils fall to 15-8-2. The Blues will be back in action at home against the Philadelphia Flyers, at 7:00 PM on Saturday night. The Devils will play the Detroit Red Wings at 3:00 PM on Friday.

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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 11/27/2024

Don Lichterman
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Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing: 11/27/2024

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Below is Insider NJ’s Morning Intelligence Briefing:

 

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “The reasons for that is that the Democratic leadership in the state party have largely been complacent for a long time and haven’t focused on building any infrastructure and because the state party has viewed New Jersey as reliably blue.” – Jersey City Mayor Fulop

 

TOP STORY: Sumter Confident of Positive Resolution to LD-35 Collision Course

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

The Morning Intelligence Briefing will be off tomorrow and Friday, and will return on Monday. We wish all of our readers a Happy Thanksgiving and holiday weekend.

 

Download and read Insider NJ’s 2024 Insider 100: Power publication.

 

More than 2M New Jerseyans will travel 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

An attorney for Nadine Menendez is seeking a trial delay over a January 6th case conflict, according to NJ Monitor.

 

The state ranks 49th for fluoride-treated water, according to NJ Spotlight.

 

A plan to force residents to bring in their birdfeeders is ruffling feathers, according to NJ.com.

 

The Wharton State Forest vehicle roadmap was finalized but motorists say its too restrictive, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

Senator-elect Kim discusses his Philly roots, Trump’s Cabinet, and next steps for Democrats, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

 

Garden State Equality commended Republican Mike DuHaime for speaking out against the House GOP’s bathroom access restrictions.

 

Moxie Strategies expanded its team and geography.

 

ICYMI: Gottheimer launched campaign for Governor; Sherrill launched candidacy for Governor; Democrats lost strength; voters aren’t familiar w/ guv candidates; Murphy addressed the loss of Democratic strength

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

The GOP smells blood in the gubernatorial race, according to the Hill.

 

In LD35, Assemblywoman Sumter is confident of a positive resolution to the collision course for the Senate seat.

 

In LD36, Republican Musto launched an Assembly bid, according to NJ Globe.

 

In LD39, Pallotta is eying an Assembly candidacy in the GOP primary.

 

Bill Spadea slammed Jack Ciattarelli for not mirroring Trump’s immigration views, according to NJ Globe.

 

Rep. Gottheimer launched his first digital ad for his gubernatorial campaign. Gottheimer gave $37k to the HCDO ahead of the party’s potential switch to Sherrill, according to Hudson County View.

 

‘Door-to-Door Democracy’ endorsed Rep. Sherrill for Governor.

 

Former Senator Durr hasn’t raised any money for his gubernatorial bid, according to Politico NJ.

 

ICYMI: Fulop’s palpitating moves; insiders tried to make sense of the presidential election; Auth playing long game; guv candidates converged at League, Sherrill made the rounds, Sweeney flexed political muscle; Bergen shifted more red; more Assembly candidates joined Fulop slate; Sweeney allies see path to victory; guv race taking shape; Baraka allies energized; firefighter unions split over guv race; Dems ready to find themselves; Hispanic Democratic dissatisfaction has grown; Bramnick faces difficult path; Ciattarelli sees advantages; Duarte looking ahead to 2025

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

Insider NJ's Morning Intelligence Briefing

 

In Hoboken, Hudson Executive Guy and Chair Romano called on the commissioners to approve public safety upgrades funding for the city.

 

In Atlantic City, the ‘hard work is paying off‘ in the Chelsea neighborhood, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

In Edison, the council banned the American flag and other ‘props’ at meetings, according to MyCentralJersey.

 

In Hasbrouck Heights, GOP officials endorsed Ciattarelli for Governor, according to NJ Globe.

 

In Lakewood, the town hasn’t responded to a minister seeking a permit to help the poor, according to the Asbury Park Press.

 

In Little Falls, officials are taking action to comply with new flooding guidelines, according to TAPinto.

 

In Maplewood, Democrats pulled their support of the mayoral candidate after she refused to endorse Rep. Sherrill for Governor, according to NJ Globe.

 

In Morris Plains, residents continue to push back against a proposed McDonald’s, according to NJ Hills.

 

In Nutley, the town has a new trash collection scheme, according to TAPinto.

 

In Ocean City, residents spoke out against Bible study on school time, according to the Press of Atlantic City. There was a packed turnout for a public glimpse of Wonderland hotel plans, according to the Press of Atlantic City.

 

ICYMI: In Morristown, familiar name resurfacing; in Marlboro, sign-stealing an issue; in Howell, GOP won election; in Marlboro, voters elected split BOE ticket; in Hoboken, Councilwoman Giattino passed away; in Howell, little unity w/in GOP; in Marlboro, tensions rising in the BOE race

 

 

AROUND THE WEB:

 

ICE explores expanding NJ immigrant detention facilities, potentially adding 600 beds

Jeff Gammage, The Philadelphia Inquirer

 

  • ICE is exploring proposals to expand its capacity to detain immigrants in New Jersey, potentially adding 600 beds in at least two facilities, according to information provided through a lawsuit filed by the ACLU.

 

After 30-hour trip on the Hudson, the first arch for NJ Transit’s rail bridge is in place

James M. O’Neill, NorthJersey.com

 

  • The first of three giant arches that will support a new railroad bridge over the Hackensack River has been moved into place at the construction site, and NJ Transit and Amtrak officials gave the media a tour of the arch Tuesday. The arches will help support the new Portal North Bridge spanning the Hackensack between Kearny and Secaucus, replacing the 114-year old Portal Bridge, a swing bridge that often gets stuck, causing frustrating delays for Amtrak and NJ Transit riders.

 

What will that surgery cost? Group says NJ hospitals aren’t posting prices correctly

Scott Fallon, NorthJersey.com

 

  • The push in recent years to require hospitals to post their prices online had a simple but profound goal: Patients could shop around for the first time, forcing competition among health care providers and ultimately lowering costs or at least keeping them stable.

 

Gov. Murphy’s congestion pricing vendetta harms New Jerseyans | Opinion

Charles Komanoff

 

  • A week after New York Gov. Kathy Hochul exhumed the nation’s first congestion pricing program, opposition to the toll plan from the suburbs continues unabated. A lawsuit in federal court by Phil Murphy, one of nine court cases seeking to block the program, is considered opponents’ best shot at holding up the tolls before president-elect Donald Trump takes office in January.

 

Mass deportation will have a greater impact than backers bargained for | Quigley

Joan Quigley, For The Jersey Journal

 

  • How you ever done something or ordered something that seemed like a good idea at the time but turned to be not at all what you expected? Recently l ordered a beautiful summer dress to wear to a special event. When it arrived I was shocked to find it had no back. The online photo showed a high-necked front but didn’t reveal it dipped to the waist in back.

 

See what Monmouth’s Mall demolition looks like – November 2024

Matt Brandt, NJ1015

 

  • It’s been a while since we’ve thought about the Monmouth Mall. The reason for that, however, is pretty obvious. The property is being completely transformed. It is, however, a smart move. As time goes by, shopping habits change, and so does the type of shopping experience we prefer. But it goes even deeper than that. How and where people hang out also changes over time. Today, in particular, people tend to prefer open-air environments as opposed to being enclosed. And that’s one of the reasons why the Monmouth Mall is undergoing the changes it is.

(Visited 546,866 times, 21 visits today)

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The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Celebrates its Bicentennial – Morris County, NJ

Don Lichterman
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The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Celebrates its Bicentennial – Morris County, NJ

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Published on October 31, 2024

County Commissioners Honor Office for 200 Years of Service

2024 MCPO Bicentennial Gala The Morris County Board of County Commissioners honored the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) during a bicentennial dinner gala last night at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park, marking the office’s 200 years of dedicated service to law and public safety.

Commissioner Douglas Cabana, joined by the full Board of County Commissioners, presented a framed resolution of honor to Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and his leadership team in recognition of the MCPO’s bicentennial.

“Since 1824 the Prosecutor’s Office has been entrusted with promoting a safe and secure environment for Morris County, and I think we can all agree that they have done an exemplary job,” said Commissioner Cabana, the board’s liaison to the law enforcement in Morris County. “Morris County stands today as one of the safest counties in the state, if not the country. The strength of the institution we honor tonight lies, of course, in its people.”

Representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean and U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Sheriff James Gannon and Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds also presented honors and praised Prosecutor Carroll and the MCPO for their work. Among those in attendance was retired Appellate Court Judge Donald Collester, who became Morris County’s first full-time prosecutor in 1971 and served until 1977 before becoming a Superior Court judge.

Seated with him during the gala were retired Superior Court JudgesStephen Smith and Thomas Critchley, who continues to serve on recall duty. The event was attended by other sitting judges as well as current and past members of the prosecutor’s office, including former Morris County Prosecutors Fredric Knapp and Robert Bianchi.

View Photos from the MCPO Bicentennial Dinner Gala

The MCPO was established on December 11, 1823, when the New Jersey General Assembly passed legislation requiring prosecutors to be attorneys appointed for five-year terms — a practice that continues today. George K. Drake, the first “Prosecutor of the Pleas,” took office on December 20, 1824.

Prosecutor Carroll was appointed to his five-year term by Governor Phil Murphy in 2020.

“As the chief law enforcement agency serving a region that predates the founding of our nation, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office aims to build upon the foundation and commitment to justice demonstrated by the men and women who have served before us,” said Prosecutor Carroll. “Our dedication to lawfulness is the cornerstone of our office’s mission – committing resources in partnership with the law enforcement community, our County Government and Sheriff’s Office and most importantly, the citizens of Morris County, all working together to promote a safe and secure environment.”

Since its founding, the MCPO has evolved to address the changing needs of county residents. Under the guidance of Prosecutor Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, the office has upheld a legacy of excellence in investigating major criminal enterprises and addressing critical issues impacting the community.

From bringing closure to the decades-old “Baby Mary” cold case to tackling the opioid crisis, the MCPO has taken on some of the county’s most pressing challenges. Their efforts have earned commendations from numerous law enforcement agencies and strengthened trust within the community. Among the many awards and honors earned by the MCPO, Prosecutor Carroll was recently named Prosecutor of the Year by the New Jersey Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association.

“Law enforcement cannot exist without community support,” said Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, who served as Deputy Chief of Investigations for the MCPO from 1986 to 2007. “This is something that the Prosecutor’s Office has understood from the beginning. We are a county that takes action, that gets out into neighborhoods and offers solutions.”

“Celebrating 200 years of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is a remarkable milestone, and we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who has served here. Our county’s rich history is grounded in the assurance that we live in a place where justice and safety are paramount,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.

Myers, who serves on the Morris County’s 250th Anniversary Steering Committee, also noted that the MCPO’s bicentennial aligns with the upcoming America250 celebrations in 2026 as the county prepares to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary.

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Photo: (l-r) Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Director Christine Myers, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Commissioners Douglas Cabana, John Krickus, Tayfun Selen and Deborah Smith.

 

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