Rising high school seniors and college students in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District are entering the final stretch to apply for a congressional nomination to one of the nation’s prestigious U.S. service academies. The application window for the 2025-26 academic cycle closes at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025, giving interested students just over two weeks to complete their submissions and ensure all supporting materials are received.
The nomination process, administered by the office of Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), is open to students planning to apply to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, as well as college students seeking to transfer into these institutions. It is important to note that while a congressional nomination is required for these academies, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require such a nomination for admission.
Applicants must submit a complete package, including transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation, by the deadline. The office encourages students to apply as early as possible to allow sufficient time for processing and to address any potential questions that arise during the review process. Representative Sherrill’s office has designated Willy Tolba, Veteran and Military Liaison, as a point of contact for questions related to the application, who can be reached via email at willy.tolba@mail.house.gov.
The nomination process serves as a critical gateway for New Jersey students aspiring to serve in the armed forces through rigorous military and academic programs. Each nomination represents a competitive opportunity to attend one of the country’s premier service academies, where candidates receive leadership training, academic preparation, and professional development that can shape careers in military service and beyond.
With the New Jersey gubernatorial race heating up as Election Day approaches, students and families are reminded that civic engagement extends beyond the ballot. Programs like the U.S. service academy nominations offer an important path for youth to serve their country while pursuing higher education. Representative Sherrill, recently highlighted in the campaign trail with endorsements from prominent national figures, continues to emphasize public service initiatives, including military academy nominations, as part of her office’s community outreach.
Interested students and families can find complete instructions and application materials at Representative Sherrill’s official website. Those preparing to submit their applications are urged to ensure every component, including supplemental documents, is delivered before the Thursday, October 23 deadline to be considered for a nomination.
For additional updates on New Jersey politics, elections, and civic engagement opportunities, visit Explore New Jersey Politics to stay informed about state and local initiatives impacting residents across the Garden State.
Hunterdon County took an inspiring step forward this week as the United Way of Hunterdon County unveiled a new early learning initiative designed to bring play, creativity, and purposeful education to children in the community. The event, held at the United Way Volunteer Center, transformed the space into a vibrant hub of activity, complete with laughter, colorful learning stations, and interactive opportunities aimed at fostering curiosity and cognitive development in young learners.
This pilot program, developed in partnership with ExxonMobil, is focused on combining fun with foundational educational skills, encouraging children to explore STEM concepts, early literacy, and social-emotional development in an engaging and hands-on environment. Organizers emphasized that the goal is not only to support children’s learning but also to provide families with tools and resources to nurture educational growth at home.
During the launch event, children rotated through various activity stations, each designed to spark imagination and reinforce problem-solving skills. From building and construction challenges to collaborative art projects, every activity encouraged teamwork, experimentation, and confidence-building. Volunteers from the community played a key role in guiding the children, ensuring that each participant received attention and encouragement as they engaged with the materials.
The program also aims to bridge gaps in early education access by targeting underserved neighborhoods within Hunterdon County. By introducing children to structured learning experiences before formal schooling begins, the initiative seeks to lay a strong foundation that can improve long-term academic outcomes. United Way representatives highlighted the importance of early interventions, noting that experiences during the first years of life have a lasting impact on cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Community leaders and local educators attended the launch to witness the program in action. Many praised the collaboration between a national corporation like ExxonMobil and a community-driven nonprofit, recognizing it as a model for public-private partnerships that can yield tangible benefits for families. The involvement of ExxonMobil reflects a commitment to social responsibility, focusing on initiatives that strengthen education and community engagement at the local level.
The event also featured opportunities for parents to engage directly with the learning stations, providing practical demonstrations of how play-based learning can be incorporated into everyday routines. Resources, guides, and take-home materials were made available to ensure that the benefits of the program extend beyond the walls of the Volunteer Center.
Looking ahead, United Way of Hunterdon County plans to expand the program over the coming months, with additional sessions, workshops, and community events designed to reach more children and families across the region. The program’s organizers hope that by fostering a love of learning early on, participants will carry curiosity, creativity, and confidence into their formal educational journeys.
The launch of this initiative underscores Hunterdon County’s commitment to nurturing the next generation through innovative, community-driven programs. By blending play with purposeful learning, the United Way and ExxonMobil partnership offers a blueprint for how local organizations can create meaningful educational opportunities that benefit children, families, and the broader community alike.
For more stories on local programs, community events, and entertainment initiatives shaping New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey Entertainment to stay informed about the latest happenings in the Garden State.
Despite ongoing economic uncertainties and evolving policy developments, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) across New Jersey and the broader United States are reporting steady confidence in their companies’ financial outlooks for the third quarter of 2025. The latest CFO Intelligence Sentiment Index shows that corporate financial leaders are maintaining a cautious optimism, signaling stability in strategic planning even as potential challenges loom on the horizon.
According to the report, CFO confidence remained largely consistent during Q3, reflecting resilience in corporate performance and ongoing operational stability. Business leaders cited healthy revenue streams, strong cash positions, and effective cost management as key drivers supporting their positive outlook. Many executives emphasized that despite uncertainty at the federal level, including fluctuating regulatory policies and fiscal measures, their companies have been able to maintain growth trajectories and pursue expansion initiatives.
However, the sentiment index also highlighted emerging concerns that could influence confidence in the coming quarters. Rising tariffs and potential disruptions in international trade remain on the radar for CFOs whose companies rely on global supply chains. Additionally, challenges related to visa and labor mobility are causing some executives to reassess hiring strategies, particularly in industries dependent on skilled foreign labor. These factors could affect workforce planning, production timelines, and ultimately profitability if not proactively managed.
The report noted that financial leaders are also closely monitoring interest rate trends and inflationary pressures. While many companies have adapted to higher borrowing costs, CFOs continue to weigh the potential impact on capital expenditures, investment initiatives, and long-term growth plans. Strategic risk management and scenario planning remain central to maintaining corporate resilience during this period of cautious optimism.
Regionally, New Jersey companies have mirrored national trends, with CFOs reporting steady performance across key sectors including finance, technology, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Executives in the state noted that their organizations have benefitted from robust consumer demand, strong business-to-business activity, and ongoing investments in infrastructure and technology upgrades. These factors have contributed to the confidence reflected in the Q3 survey results.
Despite the positive sentiment, CFOs emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant. Trade policy uncertainty, regulatory shifts, and labor challenges are all variables that could influence confidence in the upcoming quarters. Companies are increasingly focusing on strategic flexibility, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, and building resilience into supply chains to mitigate potential risks.
Joel Klein, a corporate finance expert based in New Jersey, noted, “The steady confidence among CFOs is a sign that businesses are managing the current economic environment effectively, but they are also preparing for volatility. The ability to adapt quickly to policy changes and supply chain pressures will be key to sustaining growth.”
The report underscores that while Q3 sentiment is encouraging, CFOs are balancing optimism with prudence. Investment in risk management, workforce strategy, and operational efficiency remains high on the corporate agenda. For New Jersey’s business community, this careful balancing act reflects a broader commitment to long-term stability, growth, and competitiveness in an evolving economic landscape.
For ongoing insights, corporate trends, and business developments in New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey Business to stay informed about the latest economic and financial news shaping the Garden State.
Party City, the once-dominant party supply retailer, is getting a fresh start under the ownership of New Amscan PC LLC, which acquired the brand earlier this year in a bankruptcy auction for a reported $20 million. The Hillside-based company is spearheading a comprehensive relaunch aimed at making party planning more convenient and accessible for customers across the United States, including New Jersey.
At the heart of the relaunch is a newly launched e-commerce platform, now live and supporting 26 franchise locations, including the Garden State’s South Plainfield store. Customers can browse and purchase balloons, themed décor, costumes, and party essentials online, giving the brand a modernized digital footprint while maintaining a physical presence for those who prefer in-store shopping.
Expanding the reach of the brand further, Party City has announced a partnership with DoorDash, offering same-day delivery of party supplies to customers in most major U.S. cities. This collaboration ensures that essential celebration items can arrive directly at doorsteps, adding convenience and speed for last-minute planners or those seeking a seamless shopping experience. The delivery service is particularly appealing as consumers increasingly favor home delivery for both everyday and specialty purchases.
In addition to the e-commerce push and delivery services, Party City is exploring retail partnerships with Staples to create new access points for customers. Signage at select Staples locations in New Jersey has already highlighted the upcoming arrival of “Party City at Staples,” signaling a strategic move to integrate party goods into locations frequented by office supply shoppers and small business owners.
The transformation of Party City follows a turbulent period for the retailer. In 2024, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in two years, prompting the auction of leases for more than 700 corporate-run stores across 45 states. Independently owned franchise stores, including the 26 currently operational, were not part of the bankruptcy process and continue to operate under the Party City banner. Proceeds from the lease auctions reportedly generated roughly $14.5 million, with major bidders including Dollar Tree and Five Below.
Alongside acquiring the stores, New Amscan PC LLC secured Party City’s intellectual property and wholesale operations, positioning the company to leverage both the brand’s legacy and its supply chain capabilities. An affiliate of Ad Populum, a Santa Monica-based designer and wholesaler specializing in gifts, home accents, costumes, and collectibles, New Amscan brings expertise in sourcing and distribution that complements Party City’s longstanding market presence.
Joel Weinshanker, CEO of Ad Populum, highlighted the vision behind the acquisition, stating, “We are excited to lead the transformation of the Party City and Amscan brands. By combining our strengths in sourcing and distribution with Party City’s legacy, we are confident in our ability to innovate and grow in the party supply market, delivering products that inspire and elevate life’s celebrations.”
Party City’s history in New Jersey and across North America reflects its significant influence in the party goods sector. Founded 38 years ago in East Hanover, the chain once operated close to 1,000 stores and was the largest retailer of party goods in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. After emerging from its first bankruptcy in 2023 with a leaner footprint and improved financial structure, the company faced persistent debt challenges, ultimately leading to a second Chapter 11 filing in 2024. The relaunch now aims to balance brick-and-mortar presence with robust digital and delivery capabilities, creating a versatile model for the modern consumer.
For shoppers in New Jersey, the relaunch offers multiple ways to access Party City’s products—from franchise stores like South Plainfield, to online orders with fast delivery via DoorDash, and upcoming in-store sections at Staples. The combination of digital convenience and physical locations ensures that celebrating life’s milestones is now more seamless than ever.
To keep up with New Jersey retail news, store openings, and updates from major brands, visit Explore New Jersey Business.
As the Garden State transitions from a cool fall week into a dynamic weekend, meteorologists are keeping a close eye on shifting patterns in the upper atmosphere that will dictate temperatures, cloud cover, and rainfall over the next several days. The upper jet stream is currently oscillating between troughs and ridges, creating a variable weather pattern for New Jersey. The departing trough has delivered a chillier air mass earlier this week, but a modest ridge moving in for the weekend will provide a temporary warm-up before more active weather returns next week.
Friday offered residents a crisp, quintessential autumn day. Highs reached the low-to-mid 60s across most of New Jersey under mostly sunny skies. A light north-to-northwest breeze kept conditions refreshing, while overnight lows fell into the 30s for inland areas, with the potential for frost in northern and western locations. Coastal regions stayed milder, with temperatures lingering in the mid-40s. Gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts were treated to a beautiful fall evening and clear skies, perfect for wrapping up the workweek.
Saturday promises the sunniest conditions of the weekend, with highs climbing into the 65-70 degree range across most locations. The day will feature a pleasant mix of sun and clouds, and light winds from the west and southwest will make outdoor activities comfortable. Overnight, temperatures will dip into the 40s inland and remain slightly warmer near the coast, in the 50-55 range, creating another crisp but manageable autumn night. This will be the ideal day for farmers, hikers, and residents looking to enjoy outdoor fall activities.
Sunday brings a warmer but cloudier forecast as a warm sector pushes into the state ahead of an approaching cold front. Daytime highs are expected to reach the low-to-mid 70s, marking the warmest day of the weekend. Winds will shift out of the south and southwest, adding a mild, late-October feel. While most of Sunday will remain dry, rainfall is expected to arrive late in the evening, transitioning into overnight showers that could persist into early Monday morning. Meteorologists are monitoring whether the incoming front will remain a standard system delivering light rain or whether secondary surface development along the front could enhance precipitation totals. In areas that experienced lower rainfall from the recent nor’easter—particularly northwest, west-central, and northern New Jersey—this could provide a welcome boost. Coastal and southeastern counties are likely to see less impact from the late Sunday rainfall.
Looking ahead to next week, Monday will start with lingering showers across parts of the state. Conditions are expected to improve during the day, with high temperatures settling in the mid-to-upper 60s under zonal, westerly flow. Tuesday will maintain mild conditions, although temperatures will likely not sustain the highs of Sunday. By midweek, a deeper trough will push through, bringing another cold front and a return to the cooler, crisp autumn pattern typical for this time of year, with highs generally in the 50s to low 60s.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the weekend, particularly Saturday, which will be the sunniest and most temperate day before the wet and cooler air moves in. Farmers and gardeners will find Saturday and early Sunday ideal for outdoor work, while Sunday evening and Monday morning may provide much-needed moisture for areas that remain dry.
For ongoing updates on New Jersey weather, forecasts, and alerts, visit Explore New Jersey Weather Report to plan your week ahead and stay informed about changing conditions across the state.
A key corner of Jersey City’s McGinley Square is preparing for a major transformation as plans move forward to breathe new life into a stretch of long-vacant historic buildings. The Jersey City Planning Board has given its approval for a restoration and expansion project at 712-714 Bergen Avenue — a development set to blend history, modern living, and fresh retail opportunities in one of the city’s most architecturally rich corridors.
The site, located where Bergen Avenue meets Fairmount Avenue, is composed of three adjoining historic structures that have stood empty for years. Now, under the direction of Estate Capital Group LLC, these buildings will be revitalized and connected through an ambitious adaptive reuse plan designed by the acclaimed Piro Studio of Clark, New Jersey. The project will not only restore the original facades but also introduce a fifth-floor addition, effectively linking all three properties into a single mixed-use complex.
The updated plan expands upon an earlier proposal from 2022, which initially called for a four-story, 27-unit residential building. That earlier iteration even saw framing work begin in 2024 before being paused as the development team refined their vision. With the latest approval, the new plan will elevate the structure to five stories, bringing the total to 36 modern apartments and a ground-floor retail component designed to activate the Bergen Avenue streetscape.
The mixed-use development will feature four retail storefronts totaling approximately 6,700 square feet — a welcome addition for a neighborhood seeing renewed attention from both residents and businesses. These spaces are expected to attract cafes, boutiques, and local enterprises that contribute to McGinley Square’s growing energy as a live-work community.
Above the street level, the residential layout will include 4 studio apartments, 16 one-bedroom units, and 16 two-bedroom homes, each designed to meet modern expectations for comfort and convenience while respecting the surrounding architectural character. The project did not include an affordable housing component in its current version, though its restoration of historic properties and addition of retail vitality are being viewed as important contributions to local revitalization.
The new building will reach just under 58 feet in height, requiring a single variance for height, which the Planning Board granted unanimously. The approval is expected to reignite construction momentum at a site that has sat dormant despite its early start. Once completed, the development promises to stand as a testament to Jersey City’s ongoing balance between preservation and progress — where history is not erased, but enhanced.
Projects like this have become increasingly central to Jersey City’s real estate evolution, with developers seeking to honor the city’s architectural heritage while meeting the growing demand for housing and community-focused retail. McGinley Square, in particular, is emerging as one of the city’s next key residential and commercial hubs — positioned between the cultural heartbeat of Journal Square and the residential neighborhoods to the south.
As the restoration at 712 Bergen Avenue takes shape, it joins a wave of development initiatives that reflect the city’s broader commitment to revitalization without losing sight of its historic soul. For more updates on New Jersey real estate trends and transformative urban developments like this one, visit Explore New Jersey’s Real Estate section.
In a ruling that could significantly impact how New Jersey businesses defend themselves in consumer disputes, the New Jersey Supreme Court has set a higher bar for proving that a company acted in line with its “habit or routine practice.” The decision, issued in Gerald Fazio Jr. v. Altice USA (A-21-24/089744) on July 9, 2025, emphasizes that companies must provide specific, detailed, and consistent evidence when claiming they followed standard procedures in their dealings with customers.
The unanimous opinion, written by Justice Douglas Fasciale, clarified that under New Jersey Rule of Evidence 406, a business cannot rely on general statements or assumptions to prove it acted according to a regular practice. Instead, the Court requires what it called a “high degree of specificity” to create a rebuttable presumption that a business followed its established process in a given case. This ruling will likely influence not only arbitration disputes but also a wide range of consumer protection and contract litigation across the state.
The case originated when Gerald Fazio Jr., a man living with quadriplegia, filed a complaint against Altice USA after being denied entry to one of its retail stores in 2021 for not wearing a face mask. Fazio, who cannot wear a mask due to medical reasons, alleged that store employees discriminated against him and violated the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination by refusing to accommodate his condition and calling the police. His complaint sought damages for emotional distress and alleged harassment.
In response, Altice moved to dismiss the case and compel arbitration, arguing that Fazio had agreed to arbitration clauses contained in a Customer Service Agreement (CSA). The company claimed that it routinely emailed customers a copy of the CSA after account creation, which supposedly included the arbitration terms. Altice submitted an affidavit from a senior executive describing this as a standard business practice.
However, the plaintiff countered that he never received such an email or saw any mention of arbitration when signing up for service. The initial trial court sided with Altice, finding that Fazio’s continued use of his mobile service implied consent to the CSA. The Appellate Division upheld that ruling, even though Altice could not produce any record showing the agreement had actually been sent to Fazio’s email.
When the case reached the Supreme Court, the justices unanimously reversed. Justice Fasciale made it clear that Altice’s broad descriptions of its internal procedures were not enough to establish that an email containing the CSA had been sent in this particular instance. He wrote that a company seeking to invoke evidence of “habit or routine practice” must demonstrate a consistent, specific behavioral pattern—one that operates “semi-automatically” in response to a particular situation.
The Court explained that under N.J.R.E. 406(a), evidence of a routine practice can indeed be admissible to prove conformity, but only when the business can show a detailed, repeated, and clearly defined process that leaves little room for variation. General claims or vague affidavits, the Court said, do not meet this standard. In Altice’s case, the affidavit failed to describe exactly how service agreements were routinely delivered to customers—such as which employees were responsible, what specific steps were taken, and how the process was verified. Without those details, the Court ruled, there was no proof of a genuine business habit or routine.
“The degree of specificity required to establish a business’s habit or routine practice is not a minor detail,” Fasciale wrote. “Without that specificity, there can be no presumption that a company acted in accordance with that practice.”
Because Altice could not prove that it had emailed the customer service agreement to Fazio, the Court declined to consider whether he had ever agreed to arbitration or waived his right to a jury trial. The decision underscores that businesses seeking to enforce arbitration clauses—or any contractual term—must be prepared to show not only that the practice exists, but that it was followed in the individual case at hand.
The ruling also sends a broader message about the importance of transparency and documentation in consumer relationships. As more transactions occur electronically, companies are increasingly relying on digital communications to deliver contracts and service terms. The Court’s decision makes clear that merely having a policy is not enough—businesses must maintain verifiable systems that demonstrate those policies are consistently and specifically applied.
For consumers, the ruling reinforces legal protections against being bound by arbitration agreements or other contractual terms they were never properly notified of. For businesses, it serves as a warning that courts will demand precise and well-documented evidence when questions arise about how contracts are delivered and consent is obtained.
The decision in Fazio v. Altice USA stands as one of the year’s most consequential opinions for New Jersey’s business and legal communities, reshaping how evidence of routine practice can be used in court. It highlights the judiciary’s growing insistence on clarity, specificity, and accountability in the increasingly digital landscape of commerce.
New Jersey’s political spotlight is shining brightly on the fast-approaching gubernatorial election, where Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli is rapidly closing the gap against Democratic contender Representative Mikie Sherrill. With just weeks to go until voters cast their ballots, the contest has transformed into one of the most heated and closely watched races in the country—drawing in national figures, high-profile endorsements, and sharp exchanges that underscore the state’s growing political tension.
Recent polling shows Sherrill’s lead shrinking, a sign that Ciattarelli’s relentless ground campaign may be resonating with voters across the Garden State. Once down by eight points, he has now narrowed the margin to just five, according to multiple surveys released this week. The energy around his campaign has grown noticeably stronger, particularly in areas where Republicans have traditionally struggled to make inroads.
At a lively town hall event in Elizabeth, Ciattarelli was joined by Democratic Assemblyman Jamel Holley, who crossed party lines to endorse him. Speaking to a packed crowd inside a local entertainment venue, Holley praised Ciattarelli as a candidate who “has a plan, a solid plan, for New Jersey.” The endorsement symbolized the Republican’s effort to reach beyond party boundaries, as he continues holding events in urban and Latino communities that have long leaned Democratic.
For Ciattarelli, that outreach has a deeply personal tone. He often recalls his Italian immigrant roots, drawing parallels between his family’s journey and the aspirations of today’s Latino population. “They remind me of my grandparents,” he said to attendees, emphasizing values like hard work, faith, and family. He vowed that, if elected, he would honor New Jersey’s diversity by visiting two different houses of worship every month—an effort, he said, to stay connected to the full breadth of the state’s communities.
Meanwhile, Sherrill has leveraged her growing national profile to rally support from across the Democratic spectrum. Her campaign recently hosted events alongside Governors Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Wes Moore of Maryland, and she’s received the backing of former President Barack Obama, whose endorsement further elevated her campaign’s visibility. Sherrill’s messaging has focused on protecting reproductive rights, expanding access to education, and defending infrastructure projects like the Gateway Tunnel, which became a flashpoint after former President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw federal support for it.
Trump’s influence looms large over the race. He has thrown his endorsement behind Ciattarelli, a move that simultaneously energized Republican voters and complicated the GOP candidate’s efforts to court moderates in a largely blue state. Both campaigns have had to navigate the political ripple effects of Trump’s involvement, especially as his comments on the Gateway Tunnel sparked backlash from both sides.
The candidates also clashed fiercely in their final televised debate, where the discussion turned fiery over the opioid crisis. Sherrill accused Ciattarelli’s former company of spreading misinformation about opioids, prompting an angry response and a threat of legal action. The exchange captured the tone of a race that has become increasingly personal, with each side portraying the other as out of touch with the state’s needs.
Outside the campaign trail, New Jersey is also feeling the impact of federal uncertainty. The looming threat of a government shutdown has cast doubt on the stability of funding for vital programs, including SNAP and WIC benefits that thousands of families depend on. The state’s Department of Human Services has warned that November benefits could be at risk if Congress fails to reach an agreement in time. For now, state officials have assured residents that all 16 WIC agencies across New Jersey will continue services through October, but concerns remain about what could happen if the shutdown persists into the following month.
For Ciattarelli, the political environment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Polls currently give Sherrill a modest lead—averaging around six points across several surveys—but Ciattarelli remains unconvinced. “I don’t buy it,” he told reporters after a campaign stop. “Four years ago, the polls said I was down big, and I lost by only three. This time, the energy is even stronger. The electricity is off the charts.”
As Election Day draws closer, both campaigns are intensifying their efforts to connect with undecided voters in key swing regions, from the suburbs of Bergen County to the shore towns of Monmouth and Ocean. Voter turnout will likely determine the outcome, as both parties mobilize their bases with a mix of optimism and urgency.
The 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial race is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent memory—a referendum not just on policy, but on the state’s political identity itself. Whether the next governor is Sherrill or Ciattarelli, the result will signal where New Jersey stands in a nation increasingly defined by polarization and shifting alliances.
For more political coverage, election updates, and in-depth analysis from across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey Politics.
The New Jersey Devils are finding their stride early in the 2025–26 NHL season, stringing together three consecutive wins to climb near the top of the Metropolitan Division standings. Sitting at 3-1-0 as of October 18, 2025, the Devils trail only the undefeated Carolina Hurricanes and remain tied with the Washington Capitals in points, setting the tone for what could be another competitive year in Newark.
Thursday night’s home opener at the Prudential Center was exactly what fans were hoping for—a statement game. After falling behind 1-0 early to the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, the Devils stormed back to secure a 3-1 victory in front of a packed house. Jack Hughes, Timo Meier, and Nico Hischier all found the back of the net, with the energy inside “The Rock” matching the team’s on-ice intensity.
Timo Meier and Jesper Bratt have been leading the offensive charge, each posting five points through the opening four games. Meier’s three goals pace the team, and his physical presence has given New Jersey the edge it thrives on. Bratt, meanwhile, continues to be the creative spark the Devils rely on, feeding off the chemistry that’s quickly developing across the top six.
The team’s next challenge comes this afternoon when they host the Edmonton Oilers at 3:30 p.m. ET. Despite Connor McDavid’s slow start—he’s yet to score a goal this season—the Devils aren’t taking the matchup lightly. Edmonton remains one of the league’s most dangerous offensive teams, and a win today would further solidify New Jersey’s early momentum and home-ice confidence.
Injuries, however, have forced head coach Lindy Ruff to get creative with his lineup. The Devils are currently managing several key absences, including goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who’s expected to miss several weeks with a lower-body injury. Evgenii Dadonov (hand), Jonathan Kovacevic (knee), and Stefan Noesen (groin) are all sidelined, with multiple players also on injured reserve—among them Seamus Casey, Zack MacEwen, Marc McLaughlin, and Juho Lammikko.
Despite the setbacks, the team has embraced a “next man up” mentality, with younger players stepping into significant roles. Dawson Mercer, coming off a quieter season last year, has been off to an encouraging start, rediscovering the form that made him one of New Jersey’s most reliable two-way forwards. Rookie Arseny Gritsyuk has also impressed early, showcasing sharp instincts, quick skating, and an understanding of the game that’s well beyond his years.
Behind the scenes, Devils management remains active. Talks are reportedly ongoing for a potential long-term contract extension with Markstrom. The veteran goaltender, who quickly became a locker room favorite, is viewed as a key part of New Jersey’s goaltending stability moving forward. While nothing is finalized, both sides appear eager to find common ground on a deal that could keep Markstrom in red and black for the foreseeable future.
There’s also growing speculation around potential trade activity, with reports hinting that the Devils could be exploring a move for Buffalo Sabres star forward Tage Thompson. A deal of that magnitude would signal a bold push from general manager Tom Fitzgerald, further cementing New Jersey’s place among the league’s true contenders.
Off the ice, there’s plenty of buzz surrounding the Devils’ broadcasts this season. Former NHLers Mike Rupp and Cory Schneider have joined the MSG Network’s coverage team, bringing fresh perspective and insight to pre- and postgame analysis. The move adds a dynamic new layer to the team’s media presence—just another reflection of how much the Devils have grown as a franchise.
Through four games, the Devils’ mix of skill, speed, and relentless forechecking has made them one of the most entertaining teams to watch. Their confidence is growing with every shift, and with fan energy surging once again in Newark, there’s a renewed sense that something special is brewing in the Garden State.
As October rolls on, the Devils are proving that last season’s success was no fluke. Their core is stronger, their depth is deeper, and their belief is unmistakable—Jersey’s here, and they’re just getting started.
Since recreational cannabis sales launched in New Jersey in April 2022, the state has witnessed a rapid evolution in both market size and consumer demand. In just a few short years, New Jersey’s cannabis industry has surpassed $1 billion in total sales, generating substantial tax revenue and transforming the local retail and cultural landscape. This growth has been driven by a combination of multi-state operators (MSOs), independent dispensaries, and increasingly diverse product offerings.
The financial impact of cannabis legalization in New Jersey has been significant. In the first ten weeks of adult-use sales in 2022, nearly $80 million in product sales generated $4.6 million in tax revenue. By the end of 2024, the market had surpassed $1 billion in total sales, contributing over $64.5 million in state-level tax revenue. This revenue comes from three main sources: the 6.625% state sales tax, the Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF) paid by cultivators to support communities affected by cannabis prohibition, and optional municipal transfer taxes, which are reinvested locally. Municipalities with early adoption of dispensaries, like Lawrence Township, have already seen significant revenue offsets, with cannabis taxes covering expenses such as trash collection and community programs.
2025 is shaping up to be another record-setting year. First-quarter sales reached approximately $277 million, up 17% compared to the same period in 2024, and municipalities like Franklin Township have reported strong local tax collections exceeding $278,000 for the first half of the year. While exact statewide breakdowns by dispensary remain confidential, these figures suggest robust growth and expanding market participation. The SEEF has also increased to $2.50 per ounce in 2025, providing the potential for millions of dollars in grants and loans for small businesses, especially those owned by historically disadvantaged communities.
New Jersey’s cannabis market is a mix of high-traffic MSOs, successful independent operators, and boutique micro-businesses, each contributing to the state’s unique retail landscape. Leading multi-state operators like TerrAscend’s Apothecarium in Phillipsburg benefit from strategic border locations, drawing in out-of-state customers from Pennsylvania. Other MSOs, such as Curaleaf with locations in Bellmawr and Bordentown, and Ascend Wellness Holdings in Rochelle Park, consistently perform well due to brand recognition, marketing expertise, and operational scale.
Independent dispensaries and smaller operators have also carved out strong reputations by prioritizing product variety, premium quality, and customer experience. Retailers such as Earth & Ivy in New Brunswick, Nirvana Dispensary in Mount Laurel, and Sweetspot Dispensary in Voorhees are frequently recognized for exceptional service, curated product selections, and positive reviews from customers. These dispensaries often offer a range of products from premium flower to edibles, pre-rolls, and concentrates, and they frequently introduce limited or seasonal strains that resonate with local clientele. Insights from analytics firms like Headset highlight popular strains such as Red Bullz, Bananaconda, Orange Push Pop, and Brownie Scout, alongside perennial favorites like Warheads, Southern Sugar, Runtz, and Super Lemon Haze. Pre-rolls and infused edibles are also on the rise, reflecting evolving consumer preferences.
While official sales data by individual dispensary is not released by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, trends indicate significant regional and operational differences. For example, dispensaries in Phillipsburg and Jersey City, due to high traffic and proximity to neighboring states, consistently outperform smaller or more isolated locations. Local variance is also pronounced; Mount Laurel dispensaries have reported more than three times the tax revenue of nearby Voorhees despite having similar numbers of outlets. These disparities highlight the importance of location, brand recognition, pricing strategy, and operational excellence in driving sales and customer loyalty.
New Jersey’s cannabis market has also attracted several celebrity-affiliated brands, adding an additional layer of consumer interest and cultural relevance. Athlete-backed brands like Ricky Williams’ Highsman, Mike Tyson’s Tyson 2.0, and NBA star Al Harrington’s Viola are widely available, with each offering curated flower, edibles, and lifestyle products. Music-inspired products have also entered the market, including Garcia Hand Picked from the family of Jerry Garcia and rapper Wiz Khalifa’s Khalifa Kush. Other notable celebrity brands such as Ric Flair’s cannabis line and Edie Parker accessories reflect the growing intersection between popular culture and the cannabis industry in New Jersey.
As the industry grows, competition is increasing. Prices are trending downward as new brands and dispensaries enter the market, giving consumers more choice while pushing existing operators to differentiate through quality, service, and experience. Multi-state operators leverage their brand recognition to attract repeat customers, while smaller independent dispensaries focus on curated experiences, niche products, and community engagement to remain competitive.
For residents and visitors alike, New Jersey’s recreational cannabis industry is not just a retail market—it has become a hub for culture, tourism, and lifestyle. From border towns attracting out-of-state visitors to boutique dispensaries offering local favorites, the state’s cannabis landscape continues to expand in sophistication and accessibility. Those looking to explore dispensaries, learn more about local offerings, or keep up with trends can find comprehensive resources at Explore New Jersey’s Dispensary Network. Explore New Jersey Dispensaries here!
With each passing year, New Jersey’s cannabis market demonstrates strong growth, dynamic consumer interest, and the potential for continued economic and cultural impact. Whether through strategic MSOs, thriving independent stores, or celebrity-backed brands, the state has firmly established itself as a leading market for recreational cannabis on the East Coast.
