WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Wall Township Police Department reported several incidents over the weekend from Friday, July 5, to Sunday, July 7, 2024.

On Friday, July 5, while investigating a motor vehicle accident on State Route 138, Patrolman Connor Caponegro arrested Lizbeth Vasquez, 22, of Neptune. Vasquez was found to have several warrants issued for her arrest from multiple agencies. She was processed and subsequently turned over to the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Department.

On Saturday, July 6, Patrolman Johan Moreno-Garcia arrested Ryan M. Zappi, 30, of Toms River, for driving while intoxicated following a motor vehicle stop on State Highway 138. Zappi was processed and released in accordance with John’s Law. In another incident, Patrolman Joe Phillips arrested Ambrose D. Richards, 22, of Wall Township, while investigating a single-car accident at the Collingswood Circle. Richards was processed and released under John’s Law.

Additionally, Patrolman John Kelly arrested William D. Simmons, 30, of South River, at the South River Police Department. Simmons had an active warrant for arrest issued by the Wall Township Municipal Court and was transported to the Monmouth County Correction Institution.

On Sunday, July 7, Patrolman Kevin responded to the Eatontown Police Department and took custody of Raynard L. Vasquez, 39, of Neptune. Vasquez was processed and transported to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution. Benjamin Perez Ororio, 32, of Eatontown, was arrested for driving while intoxicated following a motor vehicle accident investigation on Allenwood Lakewood Road conducted by Patrolman Alfredo. Ororio was processed and released in accordance with John’s Law.

Later that day, Patrolman Joseph Phillips arrested Lina I. Awad, 29, of Piscataway, for driving while intoxicated following a motor vehicle stop on State Highway 34 near the Garden State Parkway. Awad was processed and released under John’s Law.

Despite these charges, all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all the trial rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and New Jersey State Law.

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NEW YORK, NY — The New York City Police Department is requesting the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted in connection with an assault that occurred within the 44 Precinct.

The incident took place on Thursday at approximately 6:40 a.m. A 40-year-old male was on an MTA bus when an unknown individual boarded, brandished a large knife, and stabbed the victim in the right forearm. The suspect fled northbound on foot along Ogden Avenue.

The victim was transported by EMS to NYC Health and Hospitals/Lincoln for treatment of his injuries.

The suspect is described as a male with a medium complexion and slim build, approximately 5′ 9″ tall and weighing around 200 pounds. He was last seen wearing a red t-shirt, red hat, blue jeans, and black and red sneakers.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the NYPD.

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Dundalk, MD – A simple desire for a cup of coffee turned into an extraordinary stroke of luck for a retired police officer from Dundalk, who won an impressive $50,036 playing Keno. The winner, going by the alias “Mark’s Friend,” stumbled upon his windfall at the Rosedale Shell, Express Mart, and Dunkin’ Donuts in Baltimore.

“Mark’s Friend” has been a loyal Maryland Lottery player for over twenty years. He started with scratch-offs before switching to Keno after a significant $5,000 win. Known for his superstitions, he selects numbers based on family birthdays and significant dates related to his wife.

On July 3, during a routine coffee stop, he purchased an 8-spot Keno ticket with the Super Bonus option for 10 drawings. His chosen numbers, imbued with personal significance, hit in the eighth drawing with a 5X Super Bonus, leading to a substantial win.

“I was in disbelief,” he recalled, describing his reaction to the winning numbers. He double-checked his ticket with a store clerk, who confirmed the $50,036 prize. “It’s not every day you win that kind of money,” he said, recounting the moment he rushed home to share the news with his son.

The unexpected windfall will pay off bills, buy Mark’s dream truck, and bolster his savings. “Mark’s Friend” plans to continue playing his lucky numbers, hoping for another big win.

Rosedale Shell, located at 7514 Pulaski Highway in Baltimore, will receive a $500.36 bonus for selling the winning ticket, adding to the excitement of this unexpected jackpot.

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Annapolis, MD – The Annapolis Police Department has released details of multiple incidents in the latest police blotter report. Below are the highlights:

July 7, 2024

  • Theft – 1700 Block Forest Dr: At approximately 8:28 p.m., officers responded to a shoplifting incident at Safeway, 1781 Forest Dr. An unknown black female, described as wearing glasses, a white t-shirt, and leggings, filled a cart with groceries and left without paying.

July 3, 2024

  • Theft – 200 Block Solomons Island Rd: An employee at Kohl’s reported that two unknown males stole multiple items valued at $1,916 around 5:00 p.m.

July 5, 2024

  • Theft from Auto – 300 Block Center St: A victim reported the rear license plate (MD tag #5DM6516) was stolen from her 2016 Ford Explorer.
  • Shoplifting – 200 Block Solomons Island Rd: At approximately 5:30 p.m., officers responded to a call involving a white van (MD tag #9GA0917) on Old Solomons Island Rd. The occupant, identified as William Mitchell (DOB: 10/01/1990), matched a description for a shoplifting incident. Thirty-nine articles of clothing with security tags were found in the van’s trunk. The total value of the items was $1,465.91. Mitchell was arrested.
  • Burglary – 100 Block Obery Ct: A complainant reported that someone entered her unsecured residence between June 26 and July 3 and stole a black Michael Kors purse and prescription medications.
  • Robbery – 100 Block Hillsmere Dr: A victim reported being approached by a dark-colored vehicle as he exited a bank with an empty deposit bag. The black male passenger pointed a firearm at the victim, demanding the bag. The suspect fled towards Bay Ridge Ave with the bag.
  • Fraud/Auto Theft – 900 Block West St: Philip Young used a fake check to purchase a white Hyundai Elantra (MD temp tag T1874916) on June 29. Charges are pending.
  • Robbery – 700 Block Giddings Ave: Three masked black males entered a pharmacy, one armed with a handgun. An employee was struck with the handgun, and prescription drugs and money were taken. The suspects’ vehicle was later found disabled and unoccupied.

July 4, 2024

  • Theft from Auto – Unit Block Streamwood Ct: A victim noticed her vehicle had been rummaged through and several items were stolen.
  • Theft – Unit Block Hudson St: A victim reported his wallet was stolen from the Lighthouse Shelter between 1:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Total loss value: $467.
  • Burglary – Unit Block Locust Ave: A victim woke up to find two unknown individuals sleeping on her couch. Officers identified the subjects, who claimed they mistakenly entered the residence thinking it was a friend’s house. Both were arrested. Identified individuals: Kacey Leigh Burik (DOB: 1/9/92) and Kevin Reese Corso (DOB: 8/30/04).
  • Stolen Auto – 200 Block Boxwood Rd: A victim reported his 2018 Honda CR-V (MD registration 4DM5767) was stolen from a parking lot between 3:00 p.m. on July 3 and 7:15 a.m. on July 4.
  • Theft from 1000 Block Spa Road: A victim reported a package theft. A Hiboy Electric Scooter ordered from Amazon was reported delivered but was missing when the victim attempted to retrieve it. Total loss value: $323.
  • Theft of Tag at 1000 Block Bay Ridge Ave: A victim reported the rear tag (MD tag 6DE7178) was stolen from her vehicle parked at the Eastport shopping center.
  • Shots Fired at Main St/Conduit St: Witnesses reported hearing 4 to 5 shots and seeing a white male wearing a black cowboy hat and carrying a black backpack. Officers later heard additional shots and apprehended Jason Matthew Hockenberry (DOB: 4/28/76) matching the description. A handgun was found, and Hockenberry was charged with multiple violations.

July 3, 2024

  • Burglary – 900 Block President Street: A victim reported that an unknown subject entered her apartment and stole a green backpack valued at $8 and a green purse of unknown value.

For more details and updates, please visit the Annapolis Police Department website.

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Brunswick, OH – A fortunate player has won $165,297 on the Ohio Lottery’s EZPLAY Lucky Numbers jackpot.

The winning ticket was purchased at Manzos Thunder Road, located at 65 Pearl Road in Brunswick.

After mandatory state and federal taxes totaling 28%, the winner will receive approximately $119,013.84.

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Silver Spring, MD – A routine shopping trip turned into a life-changing moment for a Silver Spring man, who won $100,000 on a 50X The Cash scratch-off ticket, bringing his dream of homeownership closer to reality.

The Montgomery County resident, who prefers to remain anonymous, bought the $10 ticket two weeks ago at the Safeway located at 10101 New Hampshire Avenue. Unlike his usual routine of scratching off tickets at home, he decided to reveal the results while still in the grocery store parking lot.

“I was stunned,” he recalled, describing the moment he realized he had won the top prize. Although he has previously won amounts up to $500, this was his first major lottery win.

On July 5, the elated winner claimed his prize at the Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore. The unexpected windfall will significantly boost his efforts to purchase a home, a long-term goal he’s been working toward. To celebrate, he plans to take his family out for a special dinner.

The Safeway store where the winning ticket was purchased also shares in the joy, receiving a $1,000 bonus for selling the top-prize ticket.

The 50X The Cash game still has three unclaimed $100,000 top prizes. This game is part of the Maryland Lottery’s X the Cash series, which offers players the chance to multiply their winnings, even on non-winning tickets.

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North Ridgeville, OH – A resident of North Ridgeville has won $50,000 playing the Ohio Lottery’s 50th Anniversary scratch-off game.

The winning ticket was purchased at Butternut Food Mart, located at 34885 Lorain Road.

The 50th Anniversary scratch-off is a $50 game, allowing players to win top prizes.

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Cuyahoga Falls, OH – An Ohio lottery player has won the $500,000 top prize on the $500,000 Platinum Jackpot scratch-off ticket.

The winning ticket was purchased at Discount Drug Mart #33, 655 W Portage Trail in Cuyahoga Falls.

After state and federal taxes totaling 28%, the winner will receive approximately $360,000. The $500,000 Platinum Jackpot is a $10 scratch-off game. As of July 8, the Ohio Lottery reports that three top prizes of $500,000 remain available, along with many other prizes.

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Washington, D.C. – Shortly before 9:30 p.m. last night, an armed robbery occurred in the 1100 block of 24th Street NW.

Authorities are searching for three Black men with dark complexions, wearing surgical masks, blue jeans, and dark hooded sweatshirts. The suspects were last seen in a royal blue sedan.

No further information has been made available at this time.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to take no action but contact the police at (202) 727-9099 or text the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.

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shell casings

Annapolis, MD – On Thursday, Annapolis police responded to reports of gunshots in the area of Main Street and Conduit Street. Witnesses reported hearing 4 to 5 shots and seeing a white male wearing a black cowboy hat and carrying a black backpack leaving the area.

While processing the crime scene, officers heard another set of four gunshots on Main Street. Responding officers located a suspect matching the earlier description walking up Main Street. The suspect, identified as Jason Matthew Hockenberry, born April 28, 1976, was taken into custody and a handgun was found in his possession.

Hockenberry was transported to the Anne Arundel County Detention Center. He faces charges including seven handgun violations, making a false statement, reckless endangerment, obstruction, and illegal possession of a firearm.

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White Plains, NY – Westchester County District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah announced today that a New Rochelle woman has been indicted for the murder and torture of her intimate partner, 27-year-old Concetta Morton. This case marks the first time the Westchester DA’s Office has charged someone with torture murder.

DA Rocah stated, “In a first for this Office, we are charging the defendant for not only murder, but also for allegedly acting in an especially cruel manner and inflicting torture upon Ms. Morton before her death. We commend the New Rochelle police for their role in this exhaustive investigation. My Office will seek justice for all of the victims.”

Kenya Tilford, 41, was arraigned on July 2 before New York State Supreme Court Justice Anne Minihan in Westchester County Court. She faces an 18-count indictment including charges of Murder in the First Degree, Murder in the Second Degree, Strangulation in the First Degree, Concealment of a Human Corpse, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and multiple counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse, among others.

The defendant is accused of torturing Morton over three months, ultimately causing her death by asphyxiation. Morton’s body was found concealed in a storage bin at Tilford’s Franklin Avenue apartment. Surveillance footage showed Tilford purchasing items including a hooded coverall, bleach, tarps, paper towels, rubber gloves, a chainsaw, and the storage bin used to hide Morton’s body.

Tilford also faces charges related to intimidating one individual, threatening another with a knife, and physically and sexually assaulting two other intimate partners. The New Rochelle Police Department arrested her on September 15, 2023, at an Elmsford hotel following a tip received by Tarrytown police.

The investigation was supported by the Westchester County Medical Examiner, DA Criminal Investigators, and Crime Analyst Alessia Vicari. The case is being prosecuted by Homicide Bureau Chief Lana Hochheiser, Assistant District Attorney Courtney Johnson, and Homicide Bureau Senior Trial Counsel Brian Bendish.

Tilford remains in custody at Westchester County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on July 16.

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Middletown, PA – The Pennsylvania Lottery has announced a $150,000 jackpot win from the Cash 5 with Quick Cash drawing held on Sunday, July 7.

The winning ticket, sold at Giant Eagle on 9901 Mountainview Drive in West Mifflin, matched all five numbers drawn: 15, 20, 23, 25, and 29. The store will receive a $500 bonus for selling the winning ticket.

Winners must validate their tickets and claim their prizes within one year of the drawing date. Jackpot winners are advised to contact the nearest Lottery office or call 1-800-692-7481 for instructions on proceeding with their claims.

In addition to the jackpot winner, more than 7,800 other tickets won prizes in the same drawing. Ticket holders are encouraged to check each ticket thoroughly and claim smaller prizes at a Lottery retailer.

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Washington, D.C. – Local authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Jaden Richards, who was last seen in the city’s Southeast area. Richards disappeared from the 5300 block of Gay Street in Northeast D.C. and was last spotted on the 200 block of I Street in Southeast on Sunday, July 7.

Police describe Richards as a Black male with a light brown complexion. He is approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

Jaden was last seen wearing a black ski mask, a black Armani Exchange hoodie with white lettering, and light blue distressed jeans, and was carrying a red Scarface backpack.

Anyone with information about Jaden Richards’ whereabouts is urged to contact the D.C. police at 202-727-9099 or send a text to 50411.

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La Plata, MD – An investigation is underway following a fire at a single-family residence located at 6955 Ellenwood Court in Charles County. The incident occurred on Saturday at 1:58 a.m.

The property, owned by Edwin and Joanne Santos, sustained an estimated $25,000 in structural damage and $50,000 in content loss. No injuries or deaths were reported. The fire was discovered by the occupants and originated in the attached garage.

The La Plata Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene, dispatching 335 firefighters to control the blaze, which took approximately 15 minutes. The status of smoke alarms and fire alarms or sprinklers in the residence was noted as not applicable.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined and is currently under investigation. The fire has displaced the Santos family, who are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal, an agency of the Department of State Police, is handling the investigation. The agency is committed to fire safety education, inspection, investigation, and fire protection engineering. For more information on fire safety, citizens are encouraged to call 1-800-525-3124 or visit the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s website or Facebook page.

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Pile of money

TRENTON – A New Jersey lottery player has stepped forward to claim a $221 million Powerball jackpot from the June 10 drawing, marking the second largest lottery win in New Jersey this year, announced New Jersey Lottery Executive Director James Carey. The winning ticket, a Quick Pick, was purchased at Preet Food Mart in Lindenwold, Camden County.

The winner, who realized their fortune after hearing discrepancies in a radio report about the jackpot, has opted for a cash payout of $104.7 million. In a remarkable turn of events, the winner shared the news first with a close friend in disbelief. Meanwhile, the owners of Preet Food Mart, Tejinder Singh and Rajvinder Kaur Ghotra, celebrated their good fortune as well; they received a $30,000 bonus check from the lottery and plan to travel to Europe.

Despite this exciting news, the massive $1.13 billion Mega Millions jackpot from March 26 remains unclaimed. The New Jersey Lottery advises the winner of this unprecedented prize to secure the ticket and seek professional advice before coming forward. Under New Jersey law, lottery winners can choose to remain anonymous indefinitely, protecting their privacy while still fulfilling all legal obligations associated with claiming such large prizes.

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TRENTON – A lucky ticket purchased at Shoprite in Belmar, Monmouth County, has won a staggering $1,930,093 in the Jersey Cash 5 lottery.

The winning numbers from the Friday, July 5 drawing were 09, 19, 21, 38, and 40, with an XTRA number of 05 and a Bullseye number of 40.

For selling the winning ticket, Shoprite #638, located at 1732 State Route 35, will receive a bonus check for $2,000.

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Washington, D.C. – Authorities are urgently seeking public assistance to locate 14-year-old ZaVion Houston, who was last seen on July 4 at 3 PM in the 600 block of Fourth Street, Northeast D.C. The disappearance was reported to the police on July 6.

ZaVion is described by police as a Black male with a light brown complexion, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall, and weighing between 180 and 290 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair.

At the time of his disappearance, he wore black shorts, a faded black sweatshirt with a hood featuring a multicolored design on the right sleeve, white socks, and multicolored Croc-style shoes.

Anyone with information regarding ZaVion’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the D.C. Metro Police Department at 202-727-9099 or send a text to 50411.

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Cockeysville, MD – Maryland State Police are investigating a three-vehicle crash that occurred early this morning in a work zone on Interstate 695 in Baltimore County.

The incident involved a Toyota Camry, a Honda Accord, and a stationary dump truck in an active work zone. The driver and passenger of the Toyota Camry, identified as Jamal Dates, 27, of Parkville, Maryland, and Marqesha Young, 27, of Baltimore, Maryland, were transported by ambulance to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. The driver of the Honda Accord was taken to Sinai Hospital of Baltimore for treatment. No other injuries were reported.

The crash occurred shortly after midnight, when troopers from the Maryland State Police Golden Ring Barrack responded to the outer loop of Interstate 695 between the Harrisburg Expressway and Falls Road. Preliminary investigations suggest that the Toyota, driven by Dates, was traveling west on I-695 when it crashed into the rear of the dump truck and subsequently collided with the Honda.

All lanes on I-695 were closed following the incident but have since reopened. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation.

The Maryland Department of State Police reminds the public of Maryland’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to change lanes safely or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying warning signals. For more information, visit zerodeathsmaryland.gov.

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Brooklyn, NY – Police are investigating a fatal stabbing that occurred early Monday morning at 1491 Shore Parkway within the 62 Precinct.

At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers responded to a 911 call reporting a male stabbed at the location. Upon arrival, they found an unidentified, unconscious, and unresponsive male in his 30s with multiple stab wounds to the groin.

Emergency Medical Services transported the victim to NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn, where he was later pronounced deceased. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death.

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Elkton, MD – A fire broke out early Monday morning at Captain Zach’s Crab Shack, located behind Sarge’s Market at 751 Augustine Herman Hwy. The incident was reported at 3:51 a.m.

The fire occurred in a 10′ x 10′ shed used by the crab shack. Fortunately, there were no injuries or deaths reported. The structure sustained an estimated $10,000 in damages. Neither smoke alarms nor fire alarms/sprinklers were present at the site.

The Singerly Fire Company responded to the scene with 30 firefighters, who managed to control the fire within 20 minutes. The blaze was initially discovered by a passerby.

Investigators from the Office of the State Fire Marshal are currently examining the area to determine the cause of the fire. While the cause remains under investigation, they are considering accidental causes, including a possible failure of a freezer/refrigerator unit that had been experiencing issues, as well as a potential electrical failure. Nearby surveillance videos have been reviewed, and there is no evidence of criminal activity at this time.

In addition, the fire department is conducting a controlled burn-off of a 500-pound propane tank that sustained damage during the fire. Sarge’s Market, located near the shed, did not sustain any damage.

The investigation is ongoing, and Deputy State Fire Marshals continue to work to determine the exact cause of the fire.

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Egg Harbor Township, NJ – On Wednesday, July 3, recruits at the Atlantic County Police Academy received comprehensive training on domestic violence from Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Remy and Forensic Nurse Examiner Coordinator Sarah McGaffney of the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office (ACPO). The training session, held at the Anthony Canale Training Center, focused on the victimology response, investigation, and prosecution of domestic violence cases.

Domestic violence is a prevalent issue encountered by police officers and often a precursor to future violent crimes. The recruits were educated on the cycle of violence within abusive relationships, various response strategies, and essential resources available to victims.

Ed Thornton, Director of the Atlantic County Police Training Center, highlighted the importance of the collaboration with ACPO, stating, “The Atlantic County Police Training Center, in its effort to provide the latest training concepts to the police recruits, has forged partnerships with agencies throughout the county and state. One such partnership with Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds has provided the Training Center with Subject Matter Experts like Joe Remy and Sarah McGaffney. These professionals gave the recruits insights into domestic violence laws and incidents that will benefit them as they take their places in policing.”

The presentation also covered nonfatal strangulation and the activation of BREATHE (Breathing/Blood flow Restriction Event: Advocacy, Treatment, Help, and Empowerment) Teams. This multidisciplinary initiative is led by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office and aims to provide a comprehensive response to incidents of nonfatal strangulation.

The training is part of ongoing efforts to equip future police officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively handle domestic violence cases and support victims in the community.

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Annapolis, MD – The City of Annapolis will activate its cooling centers from July 8 to July 11 to provide relief from extreme heat conditions and help prevent heat-related illnesses. Visitors will have access to water at all locations. Please note that recreational activities will not be available at the Pip Moyer Recreation Center during this period.

The following locations will serve as cooling centers:

  • Roger “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center, 273 Hilltop Lane
    • Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Annapolis Michael E. Busch Library, 1410 West St
    • Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • American Legion Post 141, 1707 Forest Dr.
    • Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Annapolis Senior Activity Center, 119 S. Villa Ave
    • Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the City of Annapolis at 160 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401.

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New York, NY – On Friday, July 5, 2024, at approximately 4:53 p.m., officers from the 13th Precinct responded to a report of a suspicious package in front of 207 East 27th Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unconscious and unresponsive person inside a plastic bag.

Emergency Medical Services pronounced the individual deceased at the scene. An investigation by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the deceased to be a 31-year-old female who suffered a gunshot wound to the head. The case was ruled a homicide on July 7, 2024.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending family notification. There have been no arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing.

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JACKSON, NJ – New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy touts his new S2 school funding formula as a major success that fully funds education in New Jersey. However, it’s also forcing some districts to fire teachers, cut programs, and sell schools that have served communities for generations.

One school district is resorting to digging up and selling the trees off their campuses.

The state is ignoring that as communities like Jackson grapple with the new one-size-fits-all funding formula, it is decimating their public school systems.

In nearby Toms River, it was also announced that the district has even resorted to selling off its trees.

The Jackson School District in New Jersey recently updated the community about significant budgetary challenges and the closure of Rosenauer School. During a Board of Education meeting on June 26, 2024, which community members were urged to watch via the district’s YouTube channel, the district discussed these pressing issues.

The district had proposed a Tentative Budget that required severe cuts due to the state’s requirement for a balanced budget. This budget was initially rejected by the Board of Education because of its drastic measures. The Board also rejected a proposal to increase the tax levy by 9.9%, despite it being a legislative allowance for districts experiencing decreases in state aid, emphasizing a desire to avoid passing the financial burden onto taxpayers.

However, the decisions of the Board were overridden by the state fiscal monitor, who cited the necessity to advance the budget process. As a result, the Tentative Budget, including the 9.9% tax levy increase, will go to a final vote on July 17.

The district is actively working to minimize impacts and will continue to engage with the community, the township, and local and state legislators to find solutions. A public hearing on the proposed budget will take place at the July 17 board meeting, where further community input will be solicited.

The closure of Rosenauer School is part of these budget measures, a decision shared with sorrow by the district. The district plans to assist affected families and staff during the transition and will honor the school’s community with special events. The sale of the school property will begin after the budget is finalized in July, with the district seeking to expedite approvals to use the proceeds for the 2024-2025 school year.

The district is also calling on the community to advocate for better funding by reaching out to decision-makers, providing resources for advocacy on their Budget and Financial Page. This difficult time for the Jackson School District highlights the challenges that come with funding cuts and the complex decisions school boards must navigate to balance educational needs with fiscal reality.

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TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Toms River Regional Schools District is taking legal action against Governor Phil Murphy and the state of New Jersey due to significant funding cuts that have drastically impacted the district’s financial health and educational services. Superintendent Michael J. Citta has outlined a harrowing scenario where the district, described as the most cost-efficient in New Jersey, faces bankruptcy due to a cumulative loss of $137 million over seven years attributed to the state’s funding formula and the S2 legislation.

According to Superintendent Citta, Toms River has exhausted all financial avenues to mitigate these cuts, including maximizing local taxes under the allowable 2-percent cap, cutting over 250 jobs, and even selling trees.

“We have continued to take the high road and work with local and state legislators and the Governor’s office directly toward a solution to our problem, all the way up until this past Friday when the budget was signed and Toms River was left to deal with the financial cliff the State of NJ created. Let me reiterate, in no uncertain terms, that the State of New Jersey has knowingly created this problem for our district as well as our neighbors in Brick, Jackson, Lakewood, Lacey, Plumsted and Stafford, just to name a few. Why? How can you do that to the 15,000 Toms River students who deserve the same opportunities as every child in this great state? The removal of $26.5 million from this budget would eliminate 368 more jobs, put class sizes in the hundreds, and eliminate all extra curricular and athletic programs from the district. It would also eliminate kindergarten completely. There is no way to even propose that,” Citta said.

“Despite these efforts, they are still $26.5 million short for the 2024-2025 school year, which could potentially lead to cutting 368 more jobs, eliminating all extracurricular and athletic programs, and even discontinuing kindergarten.”Despite these efforts, they are still $26.5 million short for the 2024-2025 school year, which could potentially lead to cutting 368 more jobs, eliminating all extracurricular and athletic programs, and even discontinuing kindergarten.

“We have used all of our surplus and reserves and monetized our assets, rented facilities and even sold trees to make up the shortfall. Even with all of those actions, there was no way to make up the $137 million cut with the allowable 2-percent tax levy increase over a seven-year period,” he added.

The district argues that the funding cuts are disproportionate and unfair, especially when compared to other districts that have received increases in aid, allowing for higher spending and salary raises. Superintendent Citta accuses the state of mismanaging school funding, prioritizing political projects over educational needs, and has called for urgent action to rectify what he terms as legislative “child abuse and neglect.”

The lawsuit aims to challenge the state’s decisions and seek a funding solution that ensures the sustainability of Toms River schools and equitable opportunities for its students.

The district is rallying community support to join the fight against what they see as unjust policies that jeopardize the education of 15,000 students and affect over 50,000 families in the region.

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