New Jersey’s pizza identity has never been tied to a single blueprint. Instead, the Garden State has built a reputation on innovation, craft, and a relentless pursuit of the perfect slice. Every town has its own signature approach, every neighborhood its own loyal favorite, and every generation its own story about where the best pie is found. From iconic tomato pies to decades-old tavern-style bar pies, the state’s pizza scene continues to evolve—often fueled by passionate debates, national recognition, and in many cases, surprise spotlights from traveling reviewers.
Two recent stops—Baggio’s in Fort Lee and Grumpy’s Sourdough Pizza Co. in Saddle Brook—have added fresh energy to that conversation. Both gained attention after Barstool’s Dave Portnoy rolled through North Jersey to sample their pies. While reviews like these spark plenty of chatter, they also highlight something long established: New Jersey’s pizza is not just food. It’s culture, legacy, and local identity.
Baggio’s offers a style Portnoy himself admits is hard to define—a hybrid somewhere between classic thin crust and a crisp chewiness that gives the shop a lane all its own. In Saddle Brook, Grumpy’s Sourdough Pizza Co. delivered a family-owned warmth layered with a unique sourdough dough base that immediately set it apart. The owners, longtime fans of Barstool’s pizza reviews, welcomed the visit as both a celebration of their hard work and a moment of recognition for a growing local favorite. Reviews aside, the attention shines a spotlight on the depth and diversity within New Jersey’s pizza landscape.
And that landscape is wide. Over 2,500 pizzerias operate in the state, many of them multigenerational institutions that help define the rhythm of their communities. Ask ten residents where to find the best slice, and you’ll hear ten different answers—each backed with conviction.
Part of New Jersey’s magic is that it doesn’t limit itself to one style. Instead, it blends creativity with tradition, reflecting influences that date back to early 20th-century Italian immigration. Thin crust dominates the state, often executed with a crackling crispness locals proudly call the “thinny-thin.” There is a commitment to premium ingredients—house-made mozzarella, imported San Marzano tomatoes, and crafted doughs that are fermented, stretched, and baked with precision. Even the technique of eating reflects tradition: folding the slice is practically its own statewide ritual.
Among the state’s many standout styles, the Trenton tomato pie remains foundational. Cheese and toppings go on first, then a robust, often chunky tomato sauce is ladled over the top. The result is both rustic and expressive, a layered approach that birthed some of New Jersey’s oldest continuously operating pizzerias. Papa’s Tomato Pies, founded in 1912, stands as the country’s oldest family-run pizzeria, carrying on a tradition the rest of the nation continues to admire.
Equally beloved is the classic bar pie—ultra-thin, crisp-edged, and usually personal-sized. Whether served in landmark taverns or cherished neighborhood spots, these pies have defined many childhoods, post-work meetups, and late-night gatherings. Places like the Star Tavern in Orange, operating since 1945, have helped cement the bar pie as a vital part of the state’s culinary identity.
Newer artisan-driven pizzerias, such as the nationally recognized Razza in Jersey City, have pushed the boundaries even further. These establishments bring a modern, chef-driven approach with wood-fired crusts, locally sourced ingredients, and a renewed appreciation for New Jersey’s agricultural richness. Meanwhile, destinations like Manco & Manco at the Shore and Kinchley’s Tavern in Bergen County continue to define regional styles through nostalgia and consistency.
The strength of New Jersey’s pizza culture is amplified by the sheer density of quality options. No matter where you stand—in the north, central corridor, along the coast, or deep in the suburbs—excellence is never far away. Residents don’t just eat pizza; they grow up with it, debate it, compare it, defend it, and introduce newcomers to it with pride.
For readers hungry to explore more of the state’s standout pies, from legendary institutions to emerging shops making their mark, Explore New Jersey’s curated pizza section offers an ever-growing guide to the best slices across the Garden State. Check out all of the New Jersey Pizza reviews by Dave Portnoy.
At MetalMania Live Radio, one truth guides everything we do: every song played is the live version. No studio polish, no overdubs — only the raw, unfiltered energy of live heavy metal and hard rock. That’s why listeners across the world keep tuning in. Nothing captures the ferocity, intensity, and adrenaline of this music like a live performance, and that’s exactly what we deliver around the clock.
Tonight, the spotlight is on one of Metallica’s fiercest performances from their early years: Metallica Live in Cleveland, Ohio – December 18, 1983. Captured during the band’s formative thrash era, this show is an electrifying testament to their power, energy, and emerging dominance on the metal stage.
Cleveland 1983 – Thrash Metal Unleashed
By late 1983, Metallica had already begun defining the blueprint of thrash metal, and the Cleveland show was a perfect showcase of their raw aggression. The band hit the stage with relentless intensity — Lars Ulrich’s drumming drove the energy forward, James Hetfield’s vocals and rhythm guitar scorched the venue, and Kirk Hammett’s shredding added blistering solos that had fans screaming for more.
The Cleveland audience was on fire from the first riff, feeding the band’s energy with each roar, stomp, and fist raised in the air. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an early metal milestone, a night that proved Metallica was a force to be reckoned with on stage, capable of delivering live performances that would shape the genre for decades.
Setlist – Metallica at Their Formative Peak
The December 18, 1983 setlist captures the essence of early Metallica live fury:
Hit the Lights
The Four Horsemen
Motorbreath
Jump in the Fire
Phantom Lord
Seek & Destroy
Metal Militia
Each song demonstrates the raw aggression and precision that made Metallica a cornerstone of thrash metal. From the opening onslaught of Hit the Lights to the relentless finish of Metal Militia, this performance is a masterclass in live metal intensity. Every riff hits harder, every drumbeat pounds deeper, and every scream resonates louder in the live setting than it ever could on a studio recording.
At MetalMania Live Radio, we don’t play studio versions. Every track on our airwaves is a live recording, capturing the pure energy, connection with fans, and unstoppable force of metal and hard rock. From Metallica in Cleveland 1983 to iconic performances by Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Pantera, and countless other legends, we deliver music exactly as it was meant to be experienced — live, raw, and unforgettable.
Tonight’s Metallica Live Radio Show featuring Cleveland, OH – December 18, 1983 gives listeners a chance to experience the fury, skill, and raw energy of Metallica in their formative years. Crank it up, feel the electricity of the stage, and let MetalMania Live Radio bring the concert to you.
New Jersey’s first meaningful snowfall of the season is increasingly likely, as a complex series of atmospheric features set the stage for a light-to-moderate winter storm late Saturday night into Sunday morning. Forecasters are monitoring a dynamic setup in the upper levels of the atmosphere that could deliver a statewide, plowable snow event—one driven not by a classic coastal storm, but by a flatter, fast-moving disturbance riding a sharp temperature gradient from the Midwest into the Mid-Atlantic.
The current jet stream pattern is locked in a west-to-east orientation from Montana across the Midwest and directly into the Mid-Atlantic, a configuration that limits major storm development but supports moisture-bearing waves that can squeeze out precipitation with little warning. A surface high sitting beneath a shortwave trough is expected to help drag moisture across this corridor and toward the coast. As the wave approaches, a strong Arctic high dives out of Canada, reshaping the flow into a more amplified pattern over the weekend. This temporary shift encourages a weak ridge to form in the western U.S. and a positively tilted trough over the East—conditions favorable for a small coastal low to develop off the Delmarva or Outer Banks late Saturday night.
These ingredients, though subtle, can combine to produce a surprisingly efficient snowfall event. The forming offshore low, enhanced jet streak support, and the strong thermal gradient marching across New Jersey all point toward accumulating snow beginning around midnight Saturday and lasting through roughly 10 a.m. Sunday. Even modest forcing in a cold environment can yield higher-ratio snowfall, meaning totals may exceed what would typically be expected from a low-end system.
Signs of that colder air already appeared Thursday, when lake-effect streamers briefly swept across South Jersey from Philadelphia to Atlantic City. The state settles under a noticeably colder air mass through Friday and Saturday, with highs in the mid-to-upper 30s along the coastal plain and areas northwest of I-95 struggling to climb above freezing. By Saturday night, temperatures tumble quickly as the wave approaches. All major atmospheric layers—925mb, 850mb, and 700mb—are projected to remain well below freezing, a key indicator that any precipitation will fall as snow, even in shoreline communities typically vulnerable to marine influence.
Right now, forecasters expect accumulating snowfall throughout New Jersey, with the potential for a broad 2–4 inch event, including isolated areas exceeding that range. The exact placement of the heaviest banding remains uncertain. If the wave tracks slightly north, southern parts of the state may struggle to cool sufficiently at the surface. If it slides south, northern counties may miss the best forcing. But if the wave aligns with the core of the cold air and jet streak enhancement, a more substantial stripe of moderate snowfall could develop across central and southern New Jersey.
The window for accumulation—midnight through mid-morning Sunday—could feature several hours of steady snow, with pockets of moderate intensity possible if a developing coastal low or stronger jet dynamics materialize. While the system is not expected to be a major winter storm, it has enough potential to produce plowable totals, slick roadways through Sunday morning, and the kind of seasonal backdrop perfect for holiday lights and hot chocolate by Sunday evening.
As meteorologists refine the track and snowfall bands, New Jersey residents can expect updated projections, including the season’s first detailed snow map, on Friday. For continuing coverage of regional conditions, Explore New Jersey’s weather report section will have updated information as the weekend approaches.
Snow lovers have reason to be optimistic, and for much of New Jersey, the season’s first meaningful accumulation appears increasingly within reach.
New Jersey is witnessing an unprecedented demand for immigration legal services as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests soar under the current administration’s intensified nationwide enforcement efforts. Since January 2025, ICE has taken into custody more than 5,000 individuals in the state, prompting urgent calls for experienced immigration attorneys to manage the influx of cases. Legal professionals, advocates, and community organizations are navigating increasingly complex terrain as policy shifts, court challenges, and detention backlogs strain the system. For ongoing updates on legal developments and immigrant advocacy, the law and order section on Explore New Jersey provides resources and detailed coverage.
Strain on New Jersey’s Legal Resources The surge in ICE arrests has placed immense pressure on New Jersey’s immigration attorneys. Detention centers such as Delaney Hall in Newark have seen their populations triple over the past year, forcing lawyers to spend significant time filing writs of habeas corpus and other federal petitions to secure client releases. These processes are resource-intensive, requiring meticulous documentation, repeated court appearances, and strategic navigation of shifting federal policies. Attorneys describe the current climate as “absolutely heartbreaking,” as they balance skyrocketing caseloads with limited personnel and funding, often unable to take on new clients who urgently need representation.
Complicating matters, recent federal court rulings have reinforced the legal tensions surrounding sanctuary policies. A judge recently denied a request to pause litigation challenging sanctuary policies in Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Hoboken, allowing the legal contest over local limits on aiding ICE operations to move forward. These rulings underscore the delicate balance between federal enforcement priorities and municipal protections for immigrant communities.
National Context and Regional Impacts The situation in New Jersey mirrors broader national trends. Across the United States, ICE has reported more than 234,000 removals since the start of the year. Certain states have seen dramatic spikes, including a 290% increase in Maryland and a 470% surge in Virginia. While Congress increased ICE’s budget by 300%, funding for immigration courts rose by only 14%, creating a critical imbalance. To manage the caseload, military lawyers (JAGs) have been temporarily assigned as immigration judges, issuing removal orders at significantly higher rates than their civilian counterparts—78% versus 63%—raising concerns about due process.
The enforcement surge is also having wide-reaching economic and social consequences. In New Jersey and across the nation, industries heavily reliant on immigrant labor, such as childcare, are experiencing workforce shortages. Nationally, the number of immigrants employed in childcare dropped by 39,000, leaving thousands of U.S.-born parents struggling to find care for their children and, in some cases, exiting the workforce entirely. Additionally, ICE operations have expanded to include “collateral arrests,” detaining individuals without prior criminal records alongside targeted enforcement actions.
Community Response and Advocacy Local advocacy organizations, including the New Jersey Immigrant Rights Program led by Alexandra Gonçalves Peña, are raising alarms over the tactics employed during arrests. Reports indicate that some operations involve masked officers executing detentions without warrants, intensifying fear within immigrant communities. At the same time, New Jersey leaders continue to resist the privatization of detention centers, supporting state-level initiatives that oppose for-profit immigration detention despite federal demand for expanded capacity.
As ICE enforcement continues to escalate, New Jersey faces a critical need for qualified immigration attorneys, robust legal infrastructure, and community-based support systems to protect the rights and safety of its residents. The ongoing legal challenges, coupled with the human and economic impact of mass detentions, highlight the urgent necessity for coordinated policy responses and vigilant advocacy to navigate this complex and evolving landscape.
New Jersey lawmakers are currently examining Bill A-3451, a proposed expansion of the state’s family leave protections that would lower the employer threshold for guaranteed job reinstatement from businesses with 30 or more employees to those with as few as five. The legislation has sparked intense debate between business leaders concerned about operational and financial strain and advocates who argue it would strengthen the workforce while providing essential protections for employees. For ongoing coverage of lifestyle and workforce issues in New Jersey, the lifestyle section on Explore New Jersey offers news, insights, and expert perspectives.
Small Business Concerns Over Expanded Protections Opponents of the bill, including prominent groups such as the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce and the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), warn that extending mandatory job protection to very small businesses could create significant challenges. Many small firms operate with minimal staff, and a 12-week absence by even a single employee could disrupt operations or require costly temporary staffing solutions. The expense of hiring, training, and then potentially letting go of substitute workers places additional financial pressure on small business owners, who are already contending with inflation, labor shortages, and high operating costs.
Legal exposure is another key concern. The legislation would allow employees to pursue litigation if they are not reinstated to the exact position they held prior to taking leave. Critics argue this could saddle small “mom-and-pop” businesses with complex legal challenges and additional compliance burdens. Some business advocates also cite broader economic indicators, including New Jersey’s relatively high unemployment rate and declining Corporation Business Tax collections, as signs that small businesses may struggle to absorb new mandates at this time.
Supporters Highlight Benefits for Employees and Workforce Stability Proponents of the bill, including labor unions and supportive small business owners, emphasize that job protection for family leave is fundamentally a matter of fairness. Currently, all New Jersey workers contribute to the state’s Family Leave Insurance (FLI) program through payroll deductions, yet employees at very small businesses often cannot utilize the program due to lack of job reinstatement guarantees. Advocates argue that expanding protections would allow employees to care for family members or manage personal health needs without risking unemployment, ultimately improving workforce retention and reducing turnover-related costs.
Evidence from other states supports the idea that such expansions need not harm small businesses. Studies in California and Rhode Island, where similar protections exist, indicate that firms with fewer than 50 employees experienced minimal adverse effects on productivity or profitability. To further ease the transition, Bill A-3451 proposes a phased implementation over two years, allowing smaller employers time to adapt operations and workforce planning.
Legislative Status and Current Contributions As of early December 2025, the bill has passed the Assembly and awaits Senate approval. It was recently pulled from a Senate committee agenda to allow additional negotiations aimed at ensuring its passage and eventual signing by the governor. While job protection measures remain under discussion, contribution rates for New Jersey’s Family Leave Insurance program have already been set for 2025. Workers will contribute 0.33% of the first $165,800 in wages, up from 0.09% in 2023, while employers do not contribute to the program, which remains fully financed through payroll deductions.
If passed, Bill A-3451 could significantly reshape the landscape of family leave in New Jersey, ensuring that employees at the smallest firms receive the same protections currently afforded to workers at larger businesses. The debate underscores the ongoing tension between supporting workforce needs and safeguarding the viability of small businesses, highlighting a critical policy issue that will shape both New Jersey’s economy and its labor environment in the coming years.
Bordentown Regional High School Brings ‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’ to Life with Award-Winning Student Performances – Two Shows at 2PM & 630PM
April 26, 2026
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Bordentown Regional High School students once again demonstrated their exceptional talent with a memorable production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, adapted from Rick Riordan’s beloved book series. Performed in March 2022 at the Bordentown Performing Arts Center, the show captivated audiences with a dynamic blend of live music, engaging performances, and technically impressive stagecraft. The production not only entertained but also earned accolades, including Cappie Awards recognizing outstanding student achievements in theater. For more coverage of local theater and student productions, the theatre section on Explore New Jersey offers updates, features, and listings.
The musical follows Percy Jackson, a seemingly ordinary teenager, as he discovers that he is a demigod and is thrust into an epic quest to recover Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. Along the way, Percy encounters gods, mythical creatures, and challenges that test his courage, loyalty, and sense of identity. The story’s themes of self-discovery, family, and belonging resonate strongly with students and younger audiences, making it a perennial favorite for school theater productions. Bordentown’s adaptation infused the narrative with a modern rock score, creative choreography, and visually striking lighting design, making the adventure both thrilling and emotionally compelling.
The 2022 production highlighted the school’s commitment to integrating multiple student talents into a cohesive performance. Live musicians played alongside the cast, enhancing the energy and immediacy of the show, while the technical team delivered sophisticated lighting and stage effects that transformed the set into the mythical world of Greek gods and monsters. This collaborative approach not only showcases individual student abilities but also teaches teamwork, stagecraft, and the intricacies of professional-level theater production in a high school setting.
The Bordentown students’ dedication and skill earned critical recognition. Brynn Bowyer received a Cappie Award for Outstanding Leading Actress, while other cast members earned nominations for Outstanding Vocalist and Leading Actor. These honors reflect both the students’ individual performances and the overall excellence of the production, reinforcing Bordentown Regional High School’s reputation as a leader in student theater arts. The school’s ability to successfully balance technical innovation, live music, and compelling storytelling sets a benchmark for high school productions throughout New Jersey.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical also serves as a prime example of how school theater programs can inspire creativity and community engagement. Audiences of all ages were drawn to the excitement of Percy’s journey, while student performers gained invaluable experience in acting, music, and stage production. Productions like this underscore the importance of arts education in New Jersey, offering students opportunities to hone their talents and contribute to the vibrant local theater scene. For parents, educators, and theater enthusiasts, Bordentown Regional High School’s shows are a testament to the transformative power of student-led performance, combining entertainment, education, and community pride in one unforgettable experience.
Bordentown Regional High School Transforms Shakespeare’s Classic into a Contemporary Musical Experience
February 20, 2026
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Central Jersey theatergoers have a unique opportunity this February to experience William Shakespeare’s timeless romantic comedy, Twelfth Night, in a fresh and contemporary musical adaptation performed by the award-winning students of Bordentown Regional High School. The production will run daily through Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Bordentown Performing Arts Center, with evening performances on Friday, February 20, and Saturday, February 21, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students. For more comprehensive coverage of theater and performing arts in New Jersey, the theatre section on Explore New Jersey provides in-depth listings, features, and updates.
This modern musical adaptation, with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub, centers on Viola, a young woman shipwrecked on the shores of Illyria. Forced to disguise herself as a man to navigate this unfamiliar world, Viola enters the service of a countess while secretly pursuing her own desires. The story is filled with Shakespeare’s signature humor, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements, but the contemporary score and inventive choreography infuse the classic narrative with a fresh energy that appeals to modern audiences. As Viola journeys through this whimsical setting, she discovers her true identity and the transformative power of love, making this adaptation both emotionally resonant and entertaining.
The Bordentown students’ production stands out for its dynamic performances and meticulous attention to detail. From vibrant choreography to expressive musical numbers, the cast showcases not only acting talent but also an impressive range of skills in singing, movement, and stagecraft. The production balances comedy, drama, and heartfelt storytelling, ensuring that audience members aged 10 and older enjoy a full theatrical experience. The integration of contemporary elements alongside Shakespearean dialogue makes the show particularly accessible for young audiences while retaining the sophistication that draws in adults and longtime fans of the Bard.
The Bordentown Performing Arts Center, located at 318 Ward Avenue, provides an intimate and welcoming environment, allowing audiences to engage closely with the performers and immerse themselves in the production. Beyond Twelfth Night, the center has become a central hub for Central Jersey’s performing arts scene, hosting a wide range of concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural events throughout the year. Productions like this highlight the growing importance of arts education in New Jersey, giving students invaluable hands-on experience in performance, production, and collaborative storytelling while fostering community engagement.
With this production of Twelfth Night, Bordentown Regional High School continues its tradition of delivering professional-quality theater, demonstrating that high school performances can rival more prominent stages in energy, creativity, and skill. The show also underscores the broader value of performing arts programs in shaping the next generation of artists, cultivating both technical proficiency and a lifelong appreciation for theater. Audiences can purchase tickets online to secure seats for one of the most anticipated school theater events in Central Jersey this season, promising a night filled with laughter, music, and unforgettable performances.
New Jersey residents are gaining a fresh perspective on their towns thanks to HelloNation, a pioneering digital media platform billed as “America’s Video Magazine.” The platform combines community storytelling, business insights, and municipal highlights to create immersive digital experiences, with a growing focus on New Jersey municipalities. By highlighting local culture, economic opportunities, and leadership, HelloNation is redefining how residents and visitors engage with the state’s towns and cities. Readers looking for more tech-driven community coverage can explore the technology & tech section on Explore New Jersey.
HelloNation’s local content is tailored to the unique character of each municipality. Town-specific digital magazines and video features spotlight New Jersey communities such as Hackensack, Glen Rock, Saddle Brook, Weehawken, Harrison, and Audubon. These digital magazines explore everything from regional infrastructure and logistics to local cultural events and architectural highlights. For instance, features on Mountain Lakes emphasize seasonal activities like ice skating and celebrate the town’s storybook-style “Hapgood” homes, demonstrating how local traditions and aesthetics can be showcased through modern digital storytelling.
The platform also emphasizes business leadership and professional insights in New Jersey. Its “edvertising” approach blends educational content with narrative storytelling, allowing local business leaders to share their expertise while highlighting the value of their services. Melissa Companick, CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving New Jersey, recently appeared on HelloNation to discuss consumer confidence, market trust, and the importance of transparency in local commerce. Other professionals, including specialists in historic renovation and municipal development, have leveraged the platform to provide practical guidance and showcase their contributions to New Jersey’s communities, strengthening local networks and fostering economic growth.
Strategic partnerships further enhance HelloNation’s reach and credibility. The platform is produced by CGI Digital and endorsed by national organizations such as the National League of Cities (NLC) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, giving its New Jersey-focused content additional validation and visibility. By highlighting state-level economic incentives, such as NJEDA grants and tax credits, HelloNation provides municipalities with tools to balance growth, attract investment, and preserve local character. Its coverage of infrastructure, including proximity to major highways like I-80 and the Garden State Parkway or the Port of Newark, also positions New Jersey towns as attractive destinations for commercial and industrial development.
By combining hyper-local storytelling with digital innovation, HelloNation offers New Jersey residents, business leaders, and municipal officials a dynamic platform to showcase their communities and expertise. From highlighting seasonal events to profiling influential leaders, the platform demonstrates how technology can elevate local voices and support economic and cultural growth. With its emphasis on accessibility, education, and community engagement, HelloNation continues to reshape how New Jersey towns tell their stories and connect with audiences both within and beyond the state.
Jersey City continues to cement its role as a growing hub for independent film as actor, writer, and producer Steve Lichtenstein unveils his latest short film, Never Too Late. Produced through his Jersey City-based company, Baby Boo Boo Productions LLC, the film reflects both Lichtenstein’s deep local roots and his commitment to character-driven, human-centered storytelling. The announcement of the film and a revealing interview with Xraised originated from West New York, New Jersey, on December 11, 2025, underscoring the region’s active participation in the independent film scene. For readers interested in local cinematic developments, additional coverage is available in the film & TV section on Explore New Jersey.
Never Too Late presents a compelling narrative centered on a 70-year-old asthmatic shut-in navigating a world complicated by a broken virtual assistant and the challenges of isolation. The story explores themes of human connection, resilience, and hope, reminding audiences that meaningful relationships can persist even amidst life’s disruptions. Lichtenstein describes the film as a “powerful new chapter in independent storytelling,” emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and the underdog spirit as guiding principles throughout production.
The film’s production spanned over a year of post-production, concluding in September 2025. Lichtenstein, who frequently wears multiple hats in his projects, served as both a producer and cast member, collaborating closely with director Colleen Davie Janes and other contributors to bring the story to life. The creative philosophy behind the film prioritizes collaborative trust and intimate storytelling, hallmarks of Lichtenstein’s body of work, including his earlier semi-autobiographical short, Aaron with 2 A’s, which explored a man beginning a second acting career at 65.
Although the film does not yet have scheduled local screenings, New Jersey audiences are most likely to see Never Too Late through independent film festivals such as the Montclair Film Festival, the Teaneck International Film Festival, or the New Jersey Independent Film Festival at Rutgers University. These platforms provide critical exposure for emerging filmmakers and serve as an avenue for independent storytelling to reach broader audiences, particularly in the New Jersey area. Festival participation also highlights the state’s expanding reputation as a fertile environment for diverse film projects that celebrate originality and creative experimentation.
The release of Never Too Late further distinguishes Steve Lichtenstein’s Baby Boo Boo Productions from other similarly named entities, including Boo Productions in Greece and the UK, as well as Babyboo Fashion in Australia, by emphasizing personal, locally rooted storytelling. Lichtenstein’s work underscores the potential for independent filmmakers in New Jersey to produce intimate, meaningful stories that resonate far beyond the state while simultaneously fostering a vibrant local arts and film community.
As independent film continues to grow in New Jersey, projects like Never Too Late illustrate how creators can combine personal vision, regional resources, and festival exposure to deliver work that is both socially and artistically impactful. For anyone tracking developments in the state’s cinematic landscape, Lichtenstein’s latest short represents a noteworthy addition to the independent film scene and a promising example of Jersey City’s emerging role as a center for creative production.
New Jersey’s commercial real estate sector is closing 2025 with remarkable momentum, fueled by industrial expansion, high-value multifamily projects, and significant waterfront redevelopment. Despite a cautious national market, New Jersey continues to stand out as a hub of investment activity, drawing both local and national developers seeking prime industrial corridors, urban mixed-use opportunities, and strategic residential projects. Readers looking for more insights on statewide property trends can explore the real estate section on Explore New Jersey.
The industrial sector remains the most resilient segment of the state’s market, driven largely by last-mile distribution and logistics hubs serving dense metropolitan populations along the I-95 corridor. In Hamilton, Hillwood recently broke ground on a 221,000-square-foot speculative industrial facility at 2772 Kuser Road, with completion expected in the third quarter of 2026. Resource Realty of Northern New Jersey (RRNNJ) has similarly finalized deals totaling 116,000 square feet across Warren and Morris counties, highlighting ongoing demand for modern warehouse and distribution space. Jersey City is also seeing logistical transformations, including the redevelopment of the former Daily News plant into a new logistics center, reflecting the city’s pivot toward industrial and mixed-use adaptability. Cushman & Wakefield’s Northeast Industrial team has been active in the capital markets, completing $257 million in investment sales spanning over one million square feet in the New Jersey–New York corridor to start the fourth quarter of 2025.
Residential and mixed-use development has also experienced a surge of activity. In Newark, a luxury multifamily complex at 22 Fulton Street secured nearly $250 million in financing, demonstrating strong investor confidence in urban residential demand. Jersey City has attracted high-profile capital, with Goldman Sachs funding a $200 million mixed-income tower and Kennedy Wilson alongside Affinius providing a $384 million construction financing package for another multifamily project. Waterfront redevelopment remains a key focus, exemplified by the sale of Harborside 8 & 9 for $75 million to Panepinto Properties. These two high-rise towers will collectively add over 1,250 residential units and 23,000 square feet of retail space along the Hudson River, with comprehensive indoor and outdoor amenities and direct connectivity to the Exchange Place PATH station and Harborside Light Rail stop. The Harborside 8 tower alone will feature 678 units, 8,578 square feet of retail, a 350-space parking garage, and a redesigned 40,000-square-foot public park, while Harborside 9 includes 579 units, 14,800 square feet of retail, and a 555-space structured garage, including 87 affordable housing units. The development will also introduce a new east-to-west dead-end street between the two towers to enhance pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
Panepinto Properties Acquires Jersey City’s Harborside 8 & 9, Paving the Way for a Major Waterfront Transformation
Jersey City’s waterfront is poised for a dramatic transformation as Panepinto Properties officially takes ownership of the high-profile Harborside 8 & 9 development, a two-tower project currently under construction along the Hudson River. The acquisition, valued at $75 million, includes a former surface parking lot spanning roughly four acres at 2 Second Street and 242 Hudson Street. This marks one of the largest redevelopment transactions along Jersey City’s waterfront in recent years and signals continued momentum in the city’s luxury and mixed-use property market. Readers interested in additional New Jersey property developments can explore the real estate section on Explore New Jersey.
The Harborside 8 & 9 project has a history of ambitious planning. Initially approved in 2020 under developer Mack-Cali, the site was originally slated for three towers. The plan was subsequently scaled to two buildings, with the second tower, Harborside 9, receiving approval last summer. With the purchase by Panepinto Properties, construction is moving forward, beginning with the 68-story Harborside 8 tower, where piledriving work has officially commenced. Designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, Harborside 8 will feature 678 residential units, 8,578 square feet of retail space, a 350-space parking garage, and a redesigned 40,000-square-foot public park along the Hudson River, creating a dynamic and accessible waterfront environment.
The second phase, Harborside 9, will rise 57 stories and include 579 units, with 14,800 square feet of retail space and a 555-space structured parking garage. Notably, the project incorporates a 15% affordable housing component, resulting in 87 units designed to meet local housing needs. Both towers are planned to offer a mix of indoor and outdoor amenities, including landscaped terraces, recreational areas, and pedestrian pathways, while enhancing connectivity to the existing Harborside campus. A new east-to-west dead-end street between the two towers will improve traffic flow and access, further integrating the development into the surrounding urban fabric.
The sale also represents Veris Residential’s full exit from the Harborside complex. The real estate investment trust has been gradually divesting non-core office properties and shifting its focus to multifamily holdings. Cushman & Wakefield facilitated the transaction, highlighting the significance of the sale for both parties. Veris CEO Mahbod Nia described the deal as “a significant milestone in the continued execution of our strategic plan to monetize non-strategic assets and further strengthen our balance sheet.”
Panepinto Properties has a long history of shaping Jersey City’s skyline. Joseph Panepinto Sr., the company’s founder and CEO, emphasized the project’s transformative potential: “This acquisition reflects my long-standing belief that this formerly industrial waterfront would evolve into a modern, world-class community. Having represented Jersey City in its early redevelopment, helping shape its rising skyline has been a defining part of my life’s work. I look forward to keeping that progress a priority.”
Once complete, Harborside 8 & 9 will add more than 1,250 residential units and 23,000 square feet of retail space, dramatically reshaping this section of the Hudson River waterfront. The development’s proximity to the Exchange Place PATH station and the Harborside stop on the Hudson Bergen Light Rail ensures residents and visitors will enjoy seamless access to transit, connecting them to Manhattan and the greater metropolitan area. The project exemplifies the ongoing trend of converting Jersey City’s industrial and underutilized waterfront areas into modern, mixed-use urban communities that combine residential living, retail amenities, and public spaces.
This acquisition and redevelopment underscore Jersey City’s position as one of New Jersey’s most active and dynamic real estate markets, attracting major investment and transforming historic industrial zones into vibrant, livable, and economically significant districts.
Hearthside Announces Major Redevelopment in Haddon Township with Expanded Dining and Retail Space
Haddon Township is set to welcome a significant addition to its dining and retail landscape as Hearthside, the acclaimed fine dining establishment, prepares to relocate from Collingswood in the coming year. The new location reflects a thoughtful redesign aimed at enhancing both the culinary experience and the property’s community presence, featuring expanded facilities, additional amenities, and a dedicated retail component. Readers seeking more updates on New Jersey property and development projects can explore the real estate section on Explore New Jersey.
The new Hearthside space introduces a second-story lounge designed to offer patrons a more elevated and private dining experience. This addition is complemented by an enclosed outdoor area, providing a flexible setting that can accommodate seasonal dining, private events, or casual gatherings, while maximizing the property’s footprint. The design merges modern aesthetic touches with functional enhancements to meet the expectations of today’s diners, offering both sophistication and comfort in a single setting.
In addition to the expanded dining area, Hearthside’s redevelopment plan incorporates a separate retail space within an adjoining storefront. This new commercial component is intended to complement the restaurant’s operations while creating a versatile hub for local commerce. By including retail alongside its primary dining services, the property is positioned to serve as a destination for both culinary enthusiasts and shoppers, contributing to Haddon Township’s growing reputation as a vibrant community for mixed-use developments.
The relocation and redesign of Hearthside reflect broader trends in New Jersey’s property market, where dining and retail establishments are increasingly integrating experiential and multifunctional elements into their spaces. Properties that combine hospitality with retail or entertainment amenities are attracting significant attention from developers and investors seeking to maximize engagement and revenue per square foot. Hearthside’s plan exemplifies this approach, creating a dynamic environment that enhances the local streetscape while offering a high-end culinary experience.
As Hearthside prepares to open its doors in Haddon Township, the project is expected to not only elevate the restaurant’s offerings but also contribute to local economic activity. The expanded footprint, modernized facilities, and retail integration position the property as a model for adaptive redevelopment in suburban New Jersey, blending community engagement, commercial viability, and architectural innovation.
Other key market activity includes Belleville’s 158-unit rental property sale for $56 million to a family office, and continued multifamily investment in Fort Lee and Metuchen. Retail remains mixed but resilient; select concepts such as Wingstop and honeygrow continue to expand, illustrating pockets of growth amid broader sector pressures. NAIDB has completed several retail leases and property sales along Sloan Avenue in Hamilton, complementing the industrial expansion in that region.
New Jersey’s industrial market appears to have stabilized after ten consecutive quarters of rising vacancy, holding steady at 7.2% in the third quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, office spaces are beginning to recover as businesses calibrate hybrid staffing models, driving renewed interest in high-class offices, AI-focused sectors, and data centers. NJ Transit is taking an innovative approach to its real estate portfolio, proposing monetization of up to 8,000 acres for potential housing development and industrial leases, which could generate nearly $1.9 billion in revenue and create up to 20,000 residential units.
Signature redevelopment projects like the Hearthside expansion in Haddon Township further illustrate the continued reinvention of New Jersey’s commercial and mixed-use landscape. The project’s second-story lounge, enclosed outdoor space, and new retail storefront will redefine the property’s presence and demonstrate the growing importance of lifestyle-oriented commercial planning.
As New Jersey heads into 2026, its commercial real estate sector reflects a dynamic balance of industrial strength, waterfront transformation, and targeted urban investment. The combination of strategic financing, large-scale multifamily development, and adaptive reuse projects ensures that the state remains a national leader in commercial property activity, offering long-term opportunities for developers, investors, and residents alike.
