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Puratos Opens Nation’s First Bakery Glaze Facility in Pennsauken, Strengthening New Jersey’s Role in Food Innovation

Pennsauken, NJ — Global bakery and ingredients leader Puratos has officially opened the first bakery glaze manufacturing plant in the United States, marking a major milestone for both the company and New Jersey’s growing food technology sector. The new facility, located at Puratos’ U.S. headquarters in Pennsauken, represents a significant investment in advanced food production and sustainability—and is being hailed as a major win for Camden County’s business community.

The 10,000-square-foot facility is dedicated entirely to producing Sunset Glaze, Puratos’ signature plant-based, allergen-free egg wash alternative that has become a game-changer in the baking industry. Known for providing a rich shine, consistent color, and easy cleanup, Sunset Glaze offers a cleaner, more sustainable solution for bakeries seeking to move away from traditional egg-based glazes.

By launching this state-of-the-art plant, Puratos not only strengthens its domestic supply chain but also positions itself as the only U.S.-based manufacturer offering a reliable, locally produced bakery glaze. The new operation features advanced automation, digital production systems, and a dedicated pilot line that allows Puratos to co-create new innovations directly with its customers.

Andrew Brimacombe, President of Puratos U.S. and incoming President of Puratos North America, emphasized the importance of the new facility for both the company and the baking industry. “Glaze is a powerful driver of growth in today’s competitive bakery landscape,” Brimacombe said. “By producing locally, we’re helping our customers respond faster to market trends, reduce supply chain risks, and create premium-quality products that meet the expectations of modern consumers.”

The Pennsauken plant supports multiple packaging formats—from smaller bag-in-box options to large-scale industrial containers—making Sunset Glaze accessible to artisan bakers, retail producers, and large commercial manufacturers alike. Beyond performance, the product offers notable environmental advantages, reducing CO₂ emissions by over 50% compared to traditional egg glazes while also cutting down on food safety concerns linked to animal products.

Puratos leaders describe Sunset Glaze as more than a product—it’s part of a broader movement toward sustainability and innovation in food manufacturing. By removing the need for eggs, the company is helping bakeries transition toward cage-free and eco-conscious operations, aligning with evolving consumer values and corporate sustainability goals.

The grand opening event, held on October 27, celebrated not just the company’s innovation but also its long-standing presence in New Jersey. Local and state officials, including U.S. Representative Donald Norcross, Assemblyman William Moen Jr., and leaders from the American Bakers Association, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which featured tours of the facility, live demonstrations, and a ceremonial giant glazed challah bread to honor the occasion.

Puratos’ investment in Pennsauken reflects its ongoing commitment to American manufacturing. The Belgium-based company first established its U.S. operations in Boston in 1979 before expanding production to Pennsauken in 1983. After a period in Cherry Hill, Puratos returned to Pennsauken in 2018, transforming the site into a national headquarters and research hub. Earlier this year, the company also launched an industrial pilot bakery on the campus to support rapid prototyping and product testing for commercial clients.

Industry leaders say the addition of the bakery glaze plant will boost the region’s reputation as a center for food science and manufacturing excellence. The facility brings new high-tech jobs to Camden County while fostering collaboration between Puratos’ engineers, food scientists, and local partners.

For more stories on New Jersey’s growing business and manufacturing sectors, visit Explore New Jersey’s Business section.

With this bold step, Puratos not only expands its production capabilities but also reaffirms New Jersey’s place at the forefront of food innovation—where tradition, technology, and sustainability blend seamlessly to shape the future of the bakery industry.

Pro Dev Unlimited Empowers New Jersey’s Young Athletes with Scholarships, Championships, and Lifelong Skills

A New Jersey-based youth basketball powerhouse, Pro Dev Unlimited, continues to make an extraordinary impact on and off the court—helping student-athletes secure more than $2 million in college scholarships while achieving nearly 100 championship titles. The organization has become a model for how sports can shape not only athletic performance but also personal growth, leadership, and academic excellence.

Founded with a mission to develop well-rounded student-athletes, Pro Dev Unlimited stands out in the competitive youth sports landscape by combining high-level basketball training with mentorship and educational support. Its goal goes far beyond winning games—it’s about building the next generation of disciplined, confident, and community-driven leaders.

Under the direction of experienced coaches and educators, Pro Dev Unlimited has cultivated an environment where young athletes from across New Jersey can thrive. The program focuses on elite skill development, teamwork, mental toughness, and accountability—values that translate directly to success in both athletics and academics.

The organization’s holistic approach has produced a long list of accomplishments. Players trained under the Pro Dev banner have gone on to compete at top high schools, prestigious prep programs, and NCAA colleges across the country. Many of these athletes earned scholarships based not just on their performance, but on the character and leadership qualities instilled through the program.

Pro Dev Unlimited’s dedication to youth success also includes community engagement, academic mentoring, and life-skills workshops. Through these initiatives, the organization emphasizes education as the foundation of long-term achievement. Coaches work closely with families to ensure each player understands the importance of balancing school responsibilities with the demands of competitive sports.

The nearly 100 championships earned by Pro Dev teams are a testament to their relentless work ethic and team-first mentality. However, as program leaders often emphasize, trophies are only part of the story. The true victory lies in helping students earn opportunities to attend colleges and universities that might have once felt out of reach.

In a state known for its passionate sports culture, Pro Dev Unlimited has become a vital part of New Jersey’s athletic community. By prioritizing mentorship alongside training, the organization has created a blueprint for sustainable success—proving that youth sports can be both competitive and character-building.

Parents and players across the region continue to seek out Pro Dev for its proven track record of transforming talent into opportunity. The organization’s blend of professional coaching, structured competition, and personal development has helped hundreds of young athletes gain the confidence and discipline needed to excel beyond the basketball court.

For ongoing coverage of inspiring stories in local athletics, from championship highlights to youth development programs, visit Explore New Jersey’s High School Sports section.

With its winning combination of passion, purpose, and perseverance, Pro Dev Unlimited isn’t just creating champions—it’s shaping future leaders who carry the lessons of teamwork, dedication, and integrity into every arena of life.

Centenary University Partners with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar to Launch Groundbreaking Master’s Program in Happiness Studies

Centenary University in New Jersey has made history by introducing the world’s first accredited Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, led by internationally recognized positive psychology expert Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar. The innovative program is reshaping the future of higher education by turning the science of happiness into a serious academic discipline with real-world impact.

Dr. Ben-Shahar, who previously taught Harvard University’s most popular course on happiness, has spent years studying what makes life fulfilling and meaningful. His partnership with Centenary University marks a major milestone in bringing the academic study of well-being into mainstream education. The new graduate program aims to blend psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, and leadership studies to help students understand the foundations of human flourishing—and how to apply that knowledge in their personal and professional lives.

The Master’s in Happiness Studies is designed not only for educators or mental health professionals but also for business leaders, healthcare workers, and anyone seeking to improve quality of life in their community or organization. The curriculum explores topics such as emotional resilience, purpose-driven living, organizational wellness, and the economics of happiness. By combining science with practical strategies, the program prepares graduates to lead initiatives that foster positivity and well-being in a variety of settings.

According to university officials, this degree represents a new approach to higher learning—one that focuses on developing the whole person rather than solely preparing students for a career path. The program’s structure encourages self-reflection, mindfulness, and social awareness, teaching participants how to cultivate happiness both for themselves and others. Classes are offered in a flexible format, allowing students from around the world to enroll and collaborate through virtual and in-person sessions.

Dr. Ben-Shahar, often referred to as a pioneer in positive psychology, believes that understanding happiness is not just a personal pursuit—it’s a societal necessity. He has written several best-selling books and spent decades researching how mindset, habits, and purpose influence well-being. Through this partnership with Centenary University, he hopes to expand access to scientifically grounded methods that improve mental health and life satisfaction.

The creation of this program also reflects a broader movement within academia toward wellness-oriented education. As rates of burnout, stress, and anxiety continue to climb globally, universities are recognizing the importance of teaching emotional intelligence and resilience alongside traditional academic subjects. Centenary’s leadership in launching this degree positions New Jersey as a hub for forward-thinking approaches to education and mental wellness.

The introduction of this groundbreaking master’s program arrives at a time when organizations worldwide are increasingly investing in employee well-being and sustainable success. Graduates of the Happiness Studies program will be equipped to lead wellness programs, consult for companies, and develop community initiatives that promote happier, healthier environments.

For readers interested in mental health, emotional wellness, and the latest developments in New Jersey’s educational and health sectors, visit Explore New Jersey’s Health & Wellness section.

Through Centenary University’s partnership with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, the field of happiness has taken a transformative step from philosophy to practical application—proving that understanding how to live well can be just as valuable as any traditional academic pursuit.

Princeton-Based Blueclone Networks Unveils Advanced Cybersecurity Compliance Framework for Regulated Industries

Princeton, NJ — Blueclone Networks, a well-established Managed Services and Security Provider (MSP/MSSP) based in Princeton, has introduced a comprehensive Cybersecurity Compliance Framework designed to help businesses in highly regulated sectors strengthen their data protection and IT readiness. The new initiative aims to simplify compliance while addressing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats that organizations face in today’s digital world.

With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated and regulatory standards tightening across industries such as healthcare, finance, legal, and government, Blueclone Networks’ new framework arrives at a critical time. The company’s leadership explained that the system is built to align with major compliance requirements, including HIPAA, FINRA, CMMC, and GDPR, offering organizations a unified path toward regulatory confidence and operational resilience.

Unlike generic cybersecurity programs, the Blueclone Cybersecurity Compliance Framework integrates advanced risk assessment tools, proactive monitoring, and automated policy enforcement. This structure allows companies to not only detect vulnerabilities but also demonstrate compliance through real-time reporting and ongoing governance tracking. According to the company, the goal is to give clients both security and peace of mind—ensuring that their digital infrastructure meets or exceeds the expectations of regulators, auditors, and customers alike.

Blueclone Networks’ team emphasized that the framework was developed after years of working closely with organizations that struggle to balance business operations with complex cybersecurity and compliance mandates. By offering a customizable, modular approach, the system can be tailored to different industries’ needs—whether that means protecting sensitive patient data in healthcare, securing client records for law firms, or maintaining financial transaction integrity in banking and insurance.

Industry experts note that this type of compliance-first cybersecurity model is becoming essential for companies of all sizes. Small and mid-sized businesses, in particular, face growing pressure from both regulators and customers to prove that they can safeguard data effectively. Blueclone Networks’ offering is positioned to help these organizations meet such challenges without the need for massive internal security teams or expensive infrastructure upgrades.

Beyond technology, Blueclone Networks continues to stress the importance of employee education and ongoing risk awareness. The company’s approach pairs advanced tools with hands-on training, helping organizations build a culture of security from the inside out. Their framework includes periodic testing, phishing simulations, and audit preparation support—elements that can reduce the likelihood of data breaches caused by human error.

As digital transformation accelerates across the state, this launch positions Blueclone Networks as a key partner for New Jersey companies navigating cybersecurity and compliance in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. The firm’s proactive stance reflects a broader movement among managed service providers to take a more strategic, compliance-driven approach to data security.

For readers interested in updates on New Jersey’s growing technology sector, cybersecurity developments, and digital innovation, visit Explore New Jersey’s Technology section.

Blueclone Networks’ new Cybersecurity Compliance Framework is now available for organizations across New Jersey and beyond, offering what the company calls a “strategic roadmap” for businesses looking to modernize their IT systems while maintaining full compliance with today’s toughest cybersecurity standards.

New Jersey Supreme Court to Review Limits of Local Eminent Domain Power

The Supreme Court of New Jersey is preparing to take on a significant case that could redefine how far municipalities can go when using eminent domain. The consolidated case, Township of Jackson v. Getzel Bee, LLC and Township of Jackson v. Bellevue Jackson, LLC, has drawn statewide attention for its potential to reshape the interpretation of “public use” under New Jersey law.

At the heart of the dispute is whether a township can legally seize private property not for direct public use, but to exchange it for other land that will serve a public purpose. The outcome could have lasting implications for municipal governments, developers, and private landowners throughout the state.

The case stems from the Township of Jackson’s efforts to condemn two parcels of land—known as Block 21601, Lots 84 and 90—owned by Getzel Bee, LLC and Bellevue Jackson, LLC. Initially, the township passed an ordinance claiming the land would be used for open space preservation, a recognized public purpose. However, after property owners objected, officials approved a second ordinance revealing that the properties were actually part of a land-swap agreement with a private developer. The township maintained that this exchange would ultimately benefit the public by acquiring other parcels for open space.

The property owners challenged the move, arguing that the township’s condemnation lacked a legitimate public purpose because the targeted lots themselves were not designated for any direct public use. The trial court sided with the township, citing local ordinances and prior rulings involving the same land-swap deal.

The Appellate Division, however, overturned that decision, ruling that the township had failed to justify the condemnation. In its opinion, the appeals court emphasized that taking private property solely to trade it for another parcel cannot satisfy the statutory requirement of a “public use.” The court noted that “there is no reported case in New Jersey where private land was lawfully condemned solely for the purpose of being exchanged for other land intended for public use.”

The ruling also highlighted that the ordinances authorizing the condemnation never specified how the seized properties would ultimately serve the public. Although Jackson Township suggested that the developer intended to construct student dormitories nearby, the court found that such assertions were not part of the official record or ordinances.

The New Jersey Supreme Court, which granted certification on September 9, 2025, will now determine the scope of municipal authority under the state’s eminent domain laws. Specifically, the justices will consider whether the property being condemned must itself be used for a public purpose—or whether it can be taken solely as part of a broader exchange that ultimately benefits the public.

The decision could have major implications for how municipalities pursue redevelopment projects and negotiate land swaps with private entities. A ruling in favor of Jackson Township could expand the flexibility of local governments in managing land-use initiatives, while a decision siding with the property owners could impose tighter limits on when eminent domain can be invoked.

Eminent domain has long been a politically charged issue in New Jersey, with debates over how much power towns should have to seize private land for redevelopment or public benefit. Property rights advocates argue that overly broad interpretations of “public use” open the door to abuse, while municipalities contend that land acquisitions are often necessary to achieve community goals such as open space preservation, infrastructure improvements, or affordable housing.

Oral arguments before the Supreme Court have not yet been scheduled, but the outcome is expected to set a new precedent that will guide local governments for years to come. As municipalities, property owners, and developers await the court’s review, the case stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing balance between private rights and public needs in the Garden State.

For continuing coverage of this and other political and legal developments across New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey’s Politics section.

Cherry Hill Man Arrested in Attempted Child Luring Investigation at Local Dog Park

A Cherry Hill resident is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly attempting to meet what he believed to be a 14-year-old boy for a sexual encounter at the Cooper River Dog Park. Officials say the arrest is part of an ongoing effort to combat online child exploitation and protect vulnerable minors across Camden County.

According to the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, 62-year-old Nimrod Lasman was taken into custody on Monday, October 27, following a sting operation conducted by law enforcement. Investigators report that Lasman initiated a conversation with an individual he believed to be a teenage boy through an online chat platform earlier that day. The “boy,” however, was actually an undercover detective posing as a minor as part of a targeted investigation into child luring activities.

Authorities stated that during the online exchange, Lasman made explicit plans to meet with the person he thought was a 14-year-old at the Cooper River Dog Park in Cherry Hill later that same day. When he arrived at the location, officers from the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office and local law enforcement were waiting. He was promptly arrested without incident and transported to the Camden County Correctional Facility.

Lasman now faces multiple charges, including attempted child luring and attempted sexual assault. If convicted, he could face significant prison time under New Jersey law. Officials have not disclosed whether additional charges are being considered as the investigation continues.

This case highlights a growing concern among law enforcement agencies in New Jersey about the use of digital platforms to target minors. Authorities are urging parents and guardians to remain alert to the potential dangers children face online and to monitor communications on chat and social media platforms.

Community members in Cherry Hill and surrounding areas have expressed shock and concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and communication when it comes to children’s online activities. Law enforcement agencies continue to encourage residents to report any suspicious behavior or online interactions that could put minors at risk.

For ongoing updates on this case and related public safety news across the Garden State, visit Explore New Jersey’s Law and Order section.

As investigations like this continue, officials reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding children and holding individuals accountable for predatory behavior. The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office reminds the public that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Resources for victims of sexual assault are available through the National Sexual Violence Resources Center and the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 800-656-4673.

If you have any information that could help detectives with this investigation, please call Detective James Cavanaugh of the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crimes Unit at 856-225-8446.

New Jersey Devils Look to Rebound Against San Jose Sharks at SAP Center

The New Jersey Devils (8-2-0) are set to face the San Jose Sharks (2-6-2) tonight, October 30, 2025, at the SAP Center with puck drop scheduled for 10 p.m. EDT. Coming off a decisive 8–4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on October 28, New Jersey is eager to shake off the defeat that ended their impressive eight-game winning streak and return to dominant form against a struggling Sharks squad.

This is the second and final meeting between the two teams this season, with the Devils having claimed a 3–1 victory in their first encounter. Despite San Jose’s challenges, including a porous defense and inexperience, the matchup could be more competitive than expected due to New Jersey’s ongoing injury concerns, particularly on the blue line.

The Devils’ injury list remains extensive. Brett Pesce (upper body) is expected to be out for at least a month, while Cody Glass and Zack MacEwen, also dealing with upper-body injuries, were recently placed on injured reserve. Johnathan Kovacevic (knee) and Evgenii Dadonov (hand) remain sidelined, with Kovacevic on long-term injured reserve. These absences have placed extra pressure on the remaining defensive corps and goaltending, requiring the team to rely heavily on depth players and strategic matchups.

Goaltender Jake Allen is expected to start against the Sharks after a series of dominant performances this season. Allen boasts a .923 save percentage and a 1.93 goals-against average, stepping up while Jacob Markstrom recovers from injury. Markstrom returned to the lineup for the last game but struggled, adding uncertainty to his ongoing contract discussions. Rookie Nico Daws was reassigned to the Utica Comets following Markstrom’s return, reinforcing the team’s commitment to veteran stability in net.

Offensively, Jack Hughes has been in exceptional form, recording 14 points (9 goals, 5 assists) in his last 10 games, and will be a key player to watch. Jesper Bratt, with 12 points (4 goals, 8 assists) over the same span, rounds out a potent scoring line that has kept New Jersey competitive even amid injuries. The Devils’ balanced attack, combined with aggressive forechecking and quick transitions, should test San Jose’s defensive depth and challenge goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic, whose .875 save percentage indicates vulnerability against a high-powered offense.

The Sharks, led by 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick Macklin Celebrini, have shown flashes of brilliance despite their record. Celebrini is riding a five-game point streak, contributing 16 points (6 goals, 10 assists) in 10 games, while William Eklund adds another 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in the same period. San Jose will need a near-perfect defensive performance and strong goaltending from Nedeljkovic to contain the Devils’ offensive firepower.

Tonight’s matchup also carries strategic implications for both teams. The Devils aim to reestablish momentum before entering a crucial stretch of games, while the Sharks seek their first regulation win and a confidence boost for a young, developing roster. Given the offensive firepower on display and the Devils’ depth despite injuries, the game has the potential for a high-scoring, fast-paced contest. Betting markets favor New Jersey heavily, with a roughly 70% implied win probability and an over/under total goals line set at 6.5, reflecting expectations for an entertaining and dynamic matchup.

As the Devils take the ice at the SAP Center, eyes will be on Hughes and Bratt to continue their scoring streaks, while Allen’s performance in net will be critical for establishing defensive stability. For Sharks fans, Celebrini and Eklund represent the best opportunity to challenge New Jersey and turn a difficult season around.

My Break Down:

Team comparison

TeamRecordRecent PerformanceKey Player to WatchGoaltendingKey Injuries
Devils8-2-0Coming off an 8–4 loss to the Avalanche. Won the previous eight games.Jack Hughes: Has 8 points (6 goals, 2 assists) in his last five games.Jake Allen: Expected to start after a strong performance against the Sharks in their last matchup.Brett Pesce (upper body, month), Cody Glass (upper body, IR), Zack MacEwen (upper body, IR), Johnathan Kovacevic (lower body, LTIR).
Sharks2-6-2Still looking for their first regulation win. Lost their last game 4–3 to the Kings.Macklin Celebrini: No. 1 overall pick in 2024, has a five-game point streak.Alex Nedeljkovic: Expected to start.Adam Gaudette (upper body).

For the Devils vs. Sharks game on October 30, 2025, the key players are Jack Hughes and Jake Allen for the New Jersey Devils, and Macklin Celebrini and William Eklund for the San Jose Sharks

Key players for the New Jersey Devils

Player PositionReason to watch
Jack HughesCenterThe Devils’ top point scorer with 14 points (9 goals, 5 assists) in his last 10 games. He leads the team in goals and has been in excellent offensive form.
Jake AllenGoaltenderExpected to get the start and has been playing dominantly, with a 1.93 goals against average and a .923 save percentage. He also performed well against the Sharks in their last matchup.
Jesper BrattWingerA strong offensive contributor with 12 points (4 goals, 8 assists) in his last 10 games.

Key players for the San Jose Sharks

Player PositionReason to watch
Macklin CelebriniCenterThe number one overall draft pick in 2024, he leads the Sharks in points with 16 (6 goals, 10 assists) in 10 games and is on a five-game point streak.
William EklundForwardAnother strong offensive player who has produced 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in his last 10 games.
Alex NedeljkovicGoaltenderExpected to be the starting goalie, he has a .875 save percentage and will be under pressure facing a high-scoring Devils team.

For more coverage of the New Jersey Devils, game previews, player updates, and analysis throughout the NHL season, visit Explore New Jersey Devils.

Agatha Christie’s “The Secret Adversary”

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Maplewood Strollers Bring Agatha Christie’s “The Secret Adversary” to Life This November

November 7 @ 18:30 November 15 @ 23:30

The Maplewood Strollers are set to captivate audiences with an original stage adaptation of Agatha Christie’s thrilling classic, The Secret Adversary, running across two weekends from November 7 to 15, 2025, at the Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts. This production promises a delightful mix of suspense, humor, and romance as audiences follow the clever exploits of Christie’s iconic duo, Tommy and Tuppence, navigating the intrigue-filled streets of 1920s London.

The adaptation offers a fresh and inventive take on Christie’s beloved story, bringing to the stage the fast-paced action and clever plotting that have made the novel a fan favorite for decades. From daring escapades to unexpected twists, the performance captures the excitement of two young adventurers thrown into a world of espionage, mystery, and hidden enemies. Audiences will be on the edge of their seats as Tommy and Tuppence unravel secrets, confront danger, and discover that sometimes the greatest challenges are those closest to home.

The production also balances suspense with a lighthearted charm. Moments of comedy and subtle romance are woven seamlessly into the storyline, offering both tension and levity that will appeal to audiences of all ages. The Maplewood Strollers’ inventive staging, period costumes, and dynamic performances bring 1920s London vividly to life, immersing viewers in an era of jazz, intrigue, and sophisticated adventure.

For local theater enthusiasts and Christie fans alike, this production is an opportunity to experience a fresh interpretation of a classic work. The Burgdorff Center provides an intimate yet polished setting that enhances the tension and charm of the narrative, allowing viewers to feel fully engaged in every plot twist and revelation.

Tickets are available for performances across two consecutive weekends, providing ample opportunities for theatergoers to witness the daring adventures of Tommy and Tuppence firsthand. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Agatha Christie or discovering her work on stage for the first time, the Maplewood Strollers’ adaptation promises a memorable and engaging theatrical experience that celebrates the timeless appeal of mystery and adventure.

For more updates on theater productions, showtimes, and cultural events across New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey Theatre.

The Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts

(973) 843-7157

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The Burgdorff Center for the Performing Arts

574 Valley Street, NJ,
Maplewood, New Jersey 07040 United States
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New Documentary “On the Frontlines of Hunger” Sheds Light on Ethiopia’s Crisis — with a Powerful Connection to New Jersey

A deeply moving new documentary, On the Frontlines of Hunger, is drawing international attention to one of the world’s most devastating and underreported humanitarian emergencies — the hunger crisis in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Produced by the global charity Mary’s Meals, the film combines powerful storytelling with on-the-ground reporting to reveal how conflict, drought, and displacement have left millions struggling for survival. While its story unfolds thousands of miles away, the heart of the film has a meaningful connection to New Jersey, where Mary’s Meals USA is headquartered in Bloomfield.

The documentary, narrated by actress Roma Downey and featuring humanitarian advocate Sir Bob Geldof, offers a rare glimpse into a region that has been largely inaccessible to journalists and international aid organizations.

Through firsthand accounts, the film captures the voices of families and children facing unimaginable hardship — and the lifeline that Mary’s Meals provides through its school feeding programs. These meals, often the only food many children receive each day, are not just nourishment but a beacon of hope that allows students to return to classrooms and communities to begin rebuilding.

Filmed amid the difficult terrain and harsh realities of northern Ethiopia, On the Frontlines of Hunger highlights both the scale of the crisis and the human resilience that continues to endure despite overwhelming odds. Viewers are taken inside makeshift classrooms, refugee settlements, and aid distribution centers to witness the impact of hunger on a generation growing up in the shadow of conflict. Yet amid the devastation, there is also extraordinary courage — communities determined to survive and rebuild through solidarity, faith, and the power of education.

Sir Bob Geldof, known for his decades of humanitarian activism, brings a global voice to the film’s urgent message. His reflections, paired with Downey’s compassionate narration, underscore the importance of awareness and action in the face of silent suffering. Together, they call on audiences to confront the human cost of global hunger and to support the organizations working tirelessly on the ground to combat it.

For Mary’s Meals, which began more than two decades ago with a simple mission — to provide meals for children in their place of education — this film serves as both a testament and a call to action. The charity now reaches more than two million children daily across 18 countries, offering not only food but a path toward stability and education. In Ethiopia’s Tigray region, the organization’s presence has been especially vital as families return to destroyed villages and try to restart their lives after years of conflict.

The release of On the Frontlines of Hunger also reflects the growing influence of New Jersey in global humanitarian efforts. With Mary’s Meals USA based in Bloomfield, the state has become a national hub for charitable outreach and advocacy aimed at fighting food insecurity around the world. The organization’s team in New Jersey coordinates fundraising campaigns, awareness initiatives, and partnerships with schools, churches, and businesses throughout the United States — all dedicated to the belief that no child should go hungry in today’s world.

Scheduled for global digital release on November 5, 2025, the film is expected to spark vital conversations about how the international community responds to crises that too often go unseen. By connecting viewers in places like New Jersey to those living on the edge of survival in Ethiopia, On the Frontlines of Hunger bridges continents and challenges audiences to recognize their shared humanity.

This story is a reminder that compassion knows no borders. Whether through donations, advocacy, or simply spreading awareness, people everywhere — including right here in New Jersey — can play a role in fighting hunger and supporting the education of children in crisis zones.

For more stories highlighting compassion, advocacy, and humanitarian efforts across New Jersey and beyond, visit Explore New Jersey’s Humane State section.

Labra and Ingram Micro Join Forces to Transform Global Cloud Marketplace Growth

Labra, a leader in Business-to-Business (B2B) Cloud Go-To-Market (GTM) technology, has announced a strategic alliance with Ingram Micro designed to reshape how Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) and partners scale within the global cloud marketplace ecosystem. This collaboration brings together Labra’s intelligent automation platform and Ingram Micro’s expansive distribution network, creating a powerful solution for businesses eager to accelerate sales through cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.

In today’s competitive software economy, cloud marketplaces are no longer an afterthought — they are one of the fastest-growing sales channels for enterprise technology. Yet, many software companies face technical, compliance, and operational hurdles that slow down their ability to launch and sell through these channels. Labra’s platform solves this by automating the complex backend processes involved in listing, managing, and selling software within cloud ecosystems, helping companies go to market faster and more efficiently.

By integrating directly with major cloud providers, Labra streamlines every step of the marketplace journey. What once took months of engineering work can now be completed in a matter of days, thanks to Labra’s no-code approach that manages compliance requirements and technical integrations automatically. Businesses can create and manage private offers, contracts, and revenue reporting directly within their existing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems such as Salesforce or HubSpot, eliminating the need for redundant tools or manual entry.

The alliance with Ingram Micro will take these capabilities to a global scale. Ingram Micro, known for its vast technology distribution network and deep relationships with thousands of software vendors, will now empower partners worldwide to adopt Labra’s platform as a central part of their cloud marketplace strategy. The partnership aims to help ISVs and resellers streamline their marketplace listings, improve operational efficiency, and expand their reach to new customer segments.

Labra’s platform isn’t just about automation — it’s also about intelligence. With its built-in AI engine, Labra Intelligence, the system offers sales teams real-time insights into a buyer’s likelihood to purchase. By using predictive analytics, companies can focus their efforts on the most promising opportunities, improving close rates and reducing wasted sales cycles. AI also helps optimize product listings within cloud marketplaces, increasing visibility and driving higher conversion rates.

For organizations already managing multiple marketplaces or partner programs, Labra provides a single, centralized hub for oversight. This unified dashboard allows teams to track deals, manage co-selling efforts with cloud providers, and monitor revenue across all cloud channels. It also strengthens collaboration between internal sales teams and the partner sales representatives at AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud — enabling seamless opportunity sharing and automatic syncing between CRMs and cloud partner portals.

This partnership comes at a pivotal time for cloud-driven commerce. As more companies shift toward subscription-based software and cloud-native infrastructure, marketplaces have become the new storefronts for enterprise technology. The Labra–Ingram Micro collaboration gives ISVs and channel partners a significant advantage, simplifying what was once an intricate, resource-intensive process into a streamlined, scalable operation.

Labra’s growing list of clients includes major players such as IBM, GitLab, Proofpoint, and Trellix — all of which have leveraged the platform to expand their presence in cloud marketplaces and boost revenue through smarter, data-driven strategies. Now, with Ingram Micro’s global reach and partner ecosystem, Labra is poised to bring its automation and AI-driven GTM tools to a broader audience of software innovators around the world.

For software companies looking to navigate the complexities of cloud sales, this alliance represents a clear path forward — one where automation, intelligence, and collaboration come together to redefine how technology is sold in the cloud era.

To learn more about how partnerships like this are driving innovation and growth in New Jersey and beyond, visit the Explore New Jersey Business section.