Gilbert, AZ – A landmark $1 billion mixed-use project in Gilbert has cleared its final hurdle after the town’s Planning Commission granted full entitlement approval on August 6, paving the way for construction to begin later this year.

Known as The Ranch, the 295-acre development along Power Road between Warner and Elliot Roads will blend industrial, residential, and commercial spaces with 18 acres of landscaped green space. Development partners IndiCap, Colmena Group, and Langley Properties say the project will be Gilbert’s largest mixed-use development and a major economic driver for the region.

Phase 1, scheduled to break ground in the fourth quarter, will center on Harvest Village — a neighborhood lifestyle retail hub with seven buildings totaling about 51,000 square feet. Plans include an open-air plaza, decorative landscaping, and retail and dining options within walking distance of surrounding homes.

The first phase will also launch Corner Springs, a site with 78,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, and office space, connected by a lighted pedestrian walkway to nearby neighborhoods, plus four drive-thru pad sites.

In addition, 18 acres of open space with walking paths, shaded seating, and social areas will be developed alongside major road improvements at Elliot and Power Roads to handle increased traffic.

Upon completion, The Ranch will serve as a multi-phase destination blending commerce, living, and recreation in one of Arizona’s fastest-growing communities.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Gilbert’s Planning Commission approved The Ranch, a $1 billion mixed-use development spanning 295 acres
  • Phase 1 includes Harvest Village retail center, Corner Springs commercial space, and 18 acres of green space
  • Road upgrades and infrastructure improvements will support future growth and traffic needs
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Reading, PA – More than 5,000 residents and businesses in Northampton County are now receiving electricity from the newly energized Klecknersville Substation, a FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company (Met-Ed) project designed to strengthen reliability and support regional growth.

Serving customers in Moore, Lehigh, East Allen, and Upper Nazareth townships, as well as Bath and Chapman boroughs, the substation replaces long power feeds from Palmer Township’s Northwood Substation with shorter lines less prone to damage. The new 5–10-mile lines reduce exposure to trees and accidents while easing demand on the Northwood facility.

Equipped with smart grid technology, the substation can detect and isolate problems automatically, restore service remotely, and pinpoint outage locations to speed repairs. Wildlife guards have been installed to keep squirrels and other animals from disrupting service.

Met-Ed President John Hawkins said the project, five years in the making, will reduce the frequency and length of outages, especially during high-demand periods.

The Klecknersville Substation is part of FirstEnergy’s $28 billion Energize365 initiative to modernize the grid between 2025 and 2029.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • New Klecknersville Substation now powers 5,400 Northampton County customers
  • Shorter lines and smart grid technology aim to cut outages and speed restoration
  • Project is part of FirstEnergy’s $28 billion Energize365 grid modernization plan

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

West Deptford, NJ – A youth football practice at the RiverWinds complex was disrupted Wednesday night when a pickup truck drove onto the field toward a crowd of children and parents, police said.

The incident happened around 7:30 p.m. as kids were practicing. Witnesses said the vehicle crossed the grass, headed toward the group, and struck a light pole. Coaches quickly moved players off the field to safety.

West Deptford police arrested the driver, who now faces multiple charges. Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity or the specific charges filed. No injuries were reported.

The incident remains under investigation.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Pickup truck drove onto RiverWinds football field during youth practice Wednesday night
  • Vehicle struck a light pole; no injuries reported
  • Driver arrested and faces multiple charges
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Manhattan, NY – An 18-year-old Manhattan man has been arrested in connection with a violent late-night subway attack that left a woman slashed and robbed on a northbound “3” train at the Wall Street station.

Police said Brandon Balfour, of West 38th Street, was taken into custody Saturday at 5:25 p.m. in Lower Manhattan following an ongoing investigation. He faces charges including attempted murder, two counts of robbery, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of stolen property.

The attack happened Wednesday around 11:10 p.m., when a 29-year-old woman was approached by a man with a knife. The assailant slashed her multiple times on her left arm, left elbow, both hands, and back before taking her cellphone and fleeing.

EMS transported the victim to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue in stable condition. Investigators have linked Balfour to the incident, ending the public search for the suspect in the case.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Brandon Balfour, 18, was arrested Saturday in connection with a subway slashing and robbery at Wall Street station
  • A 29-year-old woman was cut multiple times before having her cellphone stolen
  • Balfour faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder and robbery
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Bronx, NY – Monday afternoon traffic came to a halt when two men pulled out guns and exchanged fire at the busy corner of East 165th Street and Findlay Avenue. The shootout erupted around 2:09 p.m., sending pedestrians and drivers scrambling for cover.

Witnesses told police the pair had been arguing moments before both drew firearms and fired multiple rounds at each other. Despite the barrage of gunfire, no injuries were reported.

The first man is described as having a dark complexion with black hair and was last seen running south on Findlay Avenue. The second man, with a medium complexion, fled westbound on East 165th Street.

Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and searching for the two men involved. No arrests have been made.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Two men exchanged gunfire during an argument at East 165th Street and Findlay Avenue on Monday afternoon
  • No one was injured, and both suspects fled the scene in different directions
  • Police are seeking the gunmen, who remain at large
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Bronx, NY – On Thursday night, gunfire broke out in front of 1629 Westchester Avenue, striking 33-year-old Ralph Herrera in the head and ending his life on the sidewalk. The shooting happened around 10:30 p.m., drawing a heavy police and emergency response to the Soundview section of the Bronx.

Officers arrived to find Herrera, of East 172nd Street, lying unresponsive from the gunshot wound. Paramedics rushed him to NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, but doctors could not save him, and he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Investigators say no arrests have been made and are canvassing the area for witnesses and surveillance footage. The motive for the shooting remains unclear as the search for the gunman continues.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Ralph Herrera, 33, was shot in the head outside 1629 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx Thursday night
  • He was taken to Jacobi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead
  • No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Baltimore, MD – A summer block party turned into chaos Saturday night when gunfire erupted at the intersection of Spaulding and Queensbury Avenues in Northwest Baltimore, injuring six people, including a young child.

Police Commissioner Richard Worley said officers were called to the scene at around 8:46 p.m., where they found a 5-year-old girl shot in the hand, along with four men and a woman ranging in age from 23 to 52. One of the male victims remains in critical condition.

Neighbors told local reporters the shooting broke out during a block party, shattering what had been a lively community gathering. Streets in the area were shut down as officers secured the scene and began their investigation.

No arrests have been announced, and police have not yet released information on a suspect or motive.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Six people, including a 5-year-old girl, were shot Saturday night in Northwest Baltimore
  • One male victim is in critical condition; others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries
  • The shooting happened during a block party, and no arrests have been made

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
New York City Medical Examiner on scene.

Brooklyn, NY – It was Saturday night when gunfire erupted near 57th Street and 4th Avenue, leaving a 45-year-old man mortally wounded on the sidewalk. Witnesses called 911 at around 9:11 p.m., prompting an urgent police response to the quiet stretch in Sunset Park.

Officers found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the back. Emergency medical crews rushed him to NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn, where doctors fought to save his life. He was later pronounced dead.

Police said no arrests have been made, and the shooter’s identity remains unknown. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and reviewing nearby surveillance footage as the search continues. The victim’s name has not been released pending family notification.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • A 45-year-old man was shot in the back near 57th Street and 4th Avenue in Brooklyn on Saturday night
  • He was taken to NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn and later died from his injuries
  • No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Ocean County approves over $5 million for administration building projects in Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ – A Stafford Township resident pressed Ocean County officials for the fourth time to formally oppose proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP programs, warning they would strip vital healthcare and food assistance from millions nationwide.

Speaking at the July 2 county commissioners meeting, Barbara Crystal of Bulkhead Avenue called on the board to pass a resolution against the Senate’s version of the Budget Reconciliation Bill, which she said would remove $1.5 trillion from Medicaid and SNAP to fund tax breaks for corporations and the wealthiest Americans. Crystal said the cuts would leave 16 million people without healthcare and add trillions to the national debt.

She cited enrollment data showing nearly two million New Jersey residents on Medicaid in 2024, including hundreds of thousands of children, seniors, and people with disabilities in the congressional districts of Reps. Jeff Van Drew (CD2) and Chris Smith (CD4). Crystal questioned how lawmakers who hold strong pro-life ratings could support legislation she says would harm maternal and child health.

In response, Commissioner Director Jack Kelly read a letter from Rep. Smith, who defended his support for the House version of the bill, “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” HR 1. Smith wrote that the measure preserves Medicaid benefits for eligible populations, implements work or volunteer requirements for able-bodied recipients, and introduces anti-fraud provisions, while also providing tax relief for seniors and working families.

Smith emphasized that exemptions from work requirements would protect children, pregnant women, seniors, caregivers, and medically frail individuals. He also highlighted provisions aimed at reducing wasteful Medicaid spending and addressing pharmacy benefit manager practices.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Resident urges county to oppose Senate bill cutting Medicaid and SNAP by $1.5 trillion.
  • Rep. Chris Smith says bill protects vulnerable recipients while adding work requirements for able-bodied adults.
  • Bill includes anti-fraud measures and tax relief for seniors.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ – A Manahawkin man is publicly accusing the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Jersey Department of Education, and local school officials of engaging in or covering up misconduct tied to bullying, retaliation, and corruption within the county’s educational system, specifically at the Ocean County Vocational Technical School.

Speaking at a recent commissioners meeting, Robert Yaiser said he has been “forced into this coverup” since 2020 and 2021, when he claims law enforcement initially told him the truth about complaints but later changed their account.

He alleged that the Prosecutor’s Office Internal Affairs Unit lied about what was originally told to him and said he is willing to testify under oath.

Yaiser said he has been contacted by dozens of students, parents, district employees, county officials, and current and former law enforcement officers who reported retaliation for speaking out about corruption or misconduct. He claims many of them have required medical or mental health counseling as a result.

According to Yaiser, after he began speaking publicly about the complaints, he was suspended from his district position and is now facing termination.

He vowed to continue attending public meetings alongside fellow whistleblower and former detective Sean Nelson Boero until outside authorities fully investigate the allegations.

During his remarks, Yaiser read from a letter written by James O’Donnell, a culinary teacher in the district, in which O’Donnell accused Assistant Superintendent Michael Maschi of failing to protect students and called for his resignation.

O’Donnell also requested state-level investigations into the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School (OCVTS) and Central Regional High School’s handling of student safety and bullying complaints.

The Board of Commissioners and OCVTS have not publicly commented on Yaiser’s allegations. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has not issued any statements regarding those claims.

Yaiser said these incidents highlight a pattern of administrative failures and a lack of transparency in addressing concerns about student welfare.

After his speech, the public gave Yaiser a standing ovation, prompting Commissioner Jack Kelly to silence the cheers.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I don’t want to have to keep asking you no clapping. This is not an
entertainment facility.” Kelly remarked.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Robert Yaiser alleges a coverup involving the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, NJ Department of Education, and local school officials.
  • Claims dozens have faced retaliation for reporting corruption and misconduct.
  • Reads letter from teacher calling for assistant superintendent’s resignation over student safety concerns.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY – A Long Island attorney was arrested Friday on charges that he stole more than $413,000 meant to pay off a client’s loan during a real estate closing.

Prosecutors allege that Michael Tulchiner, 61, of Bellmore, misappropriated the funds while serving as the principal attorney at The Law Office of Michael J. Tulchiner in Melville. The money, provided through a refinance loan for his client, was designated to settle a prior mortgage as part of a property sale in August 2022.

According to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Tulchiner ordered a $413,237 bank check to the mortgage company on August 26, 2022, but redeposited it into his account three days later. Investigators say he later spent the funds on expenses related to his law practice and other purposes unrelated to the transaction.

Tulchiner was arraigned before Judge John B. Zollo on a charge of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, a Class C felony. He was released on his own recognizance due to the charge being non-bail eligible under New York State law.

He is due back in court September 2 and faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. Tulchiner is represented by attorney Scott Gross. Prosecutors urge anyone who believes they may be a victim to contact the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Attorney Michael Tulchiner accused of stealing $413,237 from a client’s real estate transaction.
  • Funds allegedly redeposited into his account and used for law firm expenses.
  • Faces 5 to 15 years in prison if convicted of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

BROOKLYN, NY – A trip to the Barclays Center turned dangerous Tuesday night when a child was hit by an object thrown by an unidentified man.

Around 8:45 p.m. on August 5, police say a 12-year-old girl was inside 620 Atlantic Avenue when an unknown individual hurled an object, striking her in the right leg. The assailant then fled the scene on foot and has not been located.

The victim suffered pain to her leg but did not require hospitalization.

The suspect was last seen wearing a red hat, black shirt, black shorts, and black shoes. Police are reviewing surveillance footage from inside the venue to identify the man responsible.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • A 12-year-old girl was struck in the leg by an object thrown inside Barclays Center.
  • The suspect fled on foot and remains unidentified.
  • The victim experienced leg pain but did not require hospitalization.

An unknown man fled after hurling an object that struck a 12-year-old girl inside Barclays Center.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

TOMS RIVER, NJ – A retired New Jersey State Trooper and former county detective at the Ocean County Prosecutor’s publicly accused the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and child protective services of failing to act on warnings about child abuse, including in the high-profile death of 6-year-old Corey Micciolo.

Speaking during a recent public meeting, Sean Nelson Boero, 61, of Manahawkin, claimed that both agencies had seen a video depicting Micciolo’s abuse on a treadmill a week before his death but did not intervene. Boero said the information came directly from Corey’s mother, who has spoken publicly about her son’s case and runs a “Justice for Corey” page.

“I’m a retired New Jersey State Trooper, and when I retired from the State Police, I worked here at Ocean County for five years building your digital forensic laboratory. I left after five years, because to me, they were ignoring the cyber tips, and it resulted in several children right here in Ocean County being abused for months. I brought this to your attention before. I hope you talked to Bradley Billhimer. But today I’m here for Corey Micciolo,” Boero said. “Last year, last summer, I was teaching for the State Department in Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, you can Google it on a map, beautiful, wonderful people, but as part of the forensic training I was given, we were watching that trial on TV. Fascinating trial. But that horrible treadmill video, I
think we’ll all recall, apparently the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and Division of Child Protective Services saw that video a week before Corey died and didn’t do anything. “

Micciolo’s death and the trial that followed drew national attention, with video evidence becoming a central point in court proceedings. Boero alleged that the defense attorney may not have been informed that prosecutors had viewed the video before the boy’s death.

Boero also accused the Prosecutor’s Office of routinely neglecting cyber tips involving sexual abuse of prepubescent children in Ocean County, claiming that some sat for months or more than a year while children continued to be abused in multiple states. He said his frustration with the office’s inaction on such cases led him to resign five years ago.

He urged Ocean County officials to press Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer to address what he described as systemic failures in handling child abuse cases, both physical and digital.

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office has not yet publicly commented in response to Boerlo’s allegations.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Former detective alleges prosecutors and child services failed to act on abuse video before 6-year-old Corey Micciolo’s death.
  • Claims cyber tips on child sexual abuse have been ignored for months or more.
  • Calls for Ocean County Prosecutor to address alleged systemic failures.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

BRONX, NY – A Thursday night in the South Bronx turned violent when three men on bicycles opened fire, striking a 50-year-old man in the arm.

At around 9:55 p.m. on June 5, police say three unidentified suspects rode up near St. Ann’s Avenue and East 161st Street, displayed firearms, and fired multiple shots. The victim was hit in the left arm and suffered serious injuries before being rushed by EMS to NYC Health and Hospitals/Lincoln, where he was listed in stable condition.

After the shooting, the suspects fled eastbound on East 161st Street on their bicycles and have not been seen since.

The first suspect is described as a male with a medium complexion, last seen wearing a black sweater, black sweatpants with white stripes, and black sneakers. The second suspect, also with a medium complexion, wore a dark-colored sweater and a black ski mask. The third suspect wore a light-colored sweater, a dark vest, black pants, and a black ski mask.

An investigation is ongoing, and police are working to track the suspects’ route using area surveillance cameras.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Three men on bicycles opened fire in the Bronx, hitting a 50-year-old man in the arm.
  • Victim was hospitalized with serious injuries but is in stable condition.
  • Suspects fled eastbound on East 161st Street and remain at large.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

MANHATTAN, NY – A Sunday night dispute on a quiet East Harlem block turned violent when a man was struck with a metal pipe.

Around 9:56 p.m. on August 3, a 67-year-old man was standing in front of 315 Pleasant Avenue when an unidentified man approached him. After a verbal exchange, the suspect allegedly struck the victim in the head and back with a metal pipe before fleeing south on Pleasant Avenue.

The victim sustained minor injuries and was transported by EMS to NYC Health and Hospitals/Metropolitan, where he was listed in stable condition.

The suspect is described as a male with a light complexion and medium build, standing between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet 1 inch tall. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt, gray sweatpants and black sneakers.

Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect, and an image from surveillance footage has been released.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • A 67-year-old man was attacked with a metal pipe during a dispute in East Harlem.
  • The suspect fled on foot southbound on Pleasant Avenue.
  • Police released an image of the wanted man and are seeking tips from the public.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

QUEENS, NY – She stepped out of her home Friday afternoon and never came back.

Fifteen-year-old Valentina Torres was last seen leaving her residence at 47-22 Smart Street in Queens at around 3 p.m. on Friday. According to the report, Torres is described as being approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 120 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

She was last seen wearing a blue jacket, black pants and black sneakers.

Family members reported her missing after she did not return home later that evening. Law enforcement sources confirmed she has not been in contact with relatives or friends since she left.

An active search is underway, and investigators are reviewing local security camera footage in the area of Smart Street to trace her last known movements.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Key Points

  • Valentina Torres, 15, went missing Friday after leaving her Queens home.
  • Last seen wearing a blue jacket, black pants and black sneakers.
  • Police are searching and reviewing surveillance footage for clues.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Vic's Bradley Beach - Vics /Fb

When you think Jersey Shore, pizza isn’t necessarily the first thing that comes to mind. $5 doughy, oversized, underflavored, crispless boardwalk pizza is definitely not how most people remember fondly about their trip to the shore.

But if you look beyond the boardwalk and beyond the tourist traps, you don’t have to go far to get great pizza at the Jersey Shore.

From thin-crust classics to innovative pies, the Shore’s pizza scene is a culinary treasure.

Here’s a rundown of the five best pizza spots that locals and visitors alike can’t stop raving about, based on their quality, flavor, and Jersey charm.

Vic’s – Bradley Beach

A Jersey Shore institution since 1947, Vic’s in Bradley Beach is the gold standard for thin-crust pizza. Their signature tomato pie, with its vibrant sauce, crispy crust, and just the right amount of cheese, is a masterclass in simplicity.

The retro vibe of the dining room, paired with the aroma of fresh-baked pies, makes Vic’s a must-visit. Locals swear by the classic plain pie, but the sausage and mushroom combo is a crowd-pleaser, too. Open daily, Vic’s is a timeless staple for pizza purists.

Pizzeria Lucci – Belmar

Tucked away in Belmar, Pizzeria Lucci has quickly become a favorite for its artisanal approach. Their wood-fired pizzas boast a perfectly charred, but decadent crust and high-quality ingredients.

The Margherita, with its fresh basil and creamy mozzarella, is a standout, while their white pie with caramelized onions and ricotta offers a decadent twist. Getting in could be hard, but it’s worth the wait. They also have great salads to get the meal started.

Bonus: Their Italian bread is to die for, take a loaf home with you!

Denino’s South – Brick

A spin-off of the legendary Staten Island pizzeria, Denino’s South in Brick brings New York-style pizza with a Jersey Shore flair. Their thin, crispy crust holds up under generous toppings, with the M.O.R. pie (meatballs, onions, and ricotta) stealing the show.

The sauce strikes a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making every bite memorable. Denino’s casual, bustling vibe and consistent quality make it a go-to for families and pizza enthusiasts. Open daily, with takeout and delivery options.

Pacidough – South Toms River

Pacidough in South Toms River is a hidden gem known for its creative takes on classic pies.

Their dough, made fresh daily, has a unique, airy texture that pairs beautifully with bold toppings. The “Jersey Shore Special,” loaded with clams, garlic, and parsley, pays homage to the region’s seafood heritage, while their buffalo chicken pie packs a flavorful punch.

Pacidough’s modern, welcoming space and commitment to fresh ingredients make it a standout. Open for lunch and dinner, with gluten-free options available.

Nino’s Coal Fired Pizza – Brick

For those craving a smoky, charred flavor, Nino’s Coal Fired Pizza in Brick delivers. Their coal-fired oven produces pies with a distinct, crispy edge and rich, complex flavors.

The classic Margherita is a favorite, but the “Coal Fired Clam Pie” with fresh clams, garlic, and pecorino romano is a local legend.

Nino’s sleek, upscale atmosphere and craft beer selection elevate the experience. Open daily, it’s perfect for a night out or a quick slice on the go.Whether you’re a thin-crust devotee or a fan of bold, creative toppings, these five Jersey Shore pizzerias offer something for every palate.

From Vic’s timeless tomato pie to Nino’s smoky coal-fired creations, these spots prove the Shore is a pizza paradise. Grab a slice, hit the boardwalk, and savor the taste of summer.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Trenton, NJ – Growing up in New Jersey in the 1980s and 90s meant living by a set of unwritten rules that would seem bizarre, even reckless, to anyone raised in today’s tightly regulated, constantly connected world. It was a time before smartphones, viral videos, and social media outrage—when kids were more independent, neighborhoods felt smaller, and the boundaries of what was “acceptable” were very different.

Photo by Mike Meyers

One of the biggest differences was the telephone. Back then, calling a friend meant dialing just seven numbers—no area code needed unless you were calling out of town. Without caller ID, every ring was a mystery, and the race to answer first was real.

You also had to memorize everyone’s number or keep them in a “little black book.” Moving to a new house meant saying goodbye to your old phone number forever, and prank calls were a weekend sport.

Photo by Domiflicks

Transportation rules were looser, too. Riding in the back of a pickup truck wasn’t reserved for parades or beach trips—it was how families and friends got from one place to another. Kids sat on wheel wells, adults leaned against the cab, and no one thought twice about it. Today, most states ban the practice on highways, though a handful—including Alaska, Arizona, and Wyoming—still allow it.

Photo by Martijn Baudoin

Even grocery shopping had a different vibe. Many supermarkets had “Do Not Accept Checks From” boards posted at the register, publicly listing names of people who had bounced checks. Alongside them were credit card books cataloging numbers tied to bad accounts. This form of public shaming was just part of business—something that would never fly in today’s privacy-conscious era.

If you needed to make a phone call away from home, your best bet was to knock on a stranger’s door and ask to use their landline. While it sounds risky now, in many communities it was common courtesy to let a neighbor or even a stranger place a call in an emergency.

Errands for parents were another area where rules have shifted. In the 80s and early 90s, sending your child—sometimes under the age of 10—to the corner store to buy cigarettes, milk, and a few lottery tickets was routine. No clerk asked for ID, and cigarette vending machines were a familiar sight in bowling alleys and diners.

Smoking wasn’t confined to homes and bars. In workplaces across New Jersey, lighting up at your desk was normal, and teacher lounges in schools were often clouded with cigarette smoke. Some teachers even kept flasks in their desks. On airplanes and in hospitals, smoking sections were standard, and nobody questioned it.

Socializing was far more spontaneous. If you were bored, you could just walk to a friend’s house, knock on the door, and see what happened. Parents didn’t coordinate playdates; kids made plans on the fly, often ending up outside for hours. Parents would send their children out the door after breakfast and expect them home when the streetlights came on. If you were late, you might hear your name being yelled across the neighborhood—an informal but effective dinner bell.

Halloween was also more unfiltered. Costumes in the 80s and 90s often pushed boundaries in ways that would spark immediate backlash today. Blackface, offensive stereotypes, and risqué outfits were worn without fear of going viral or losing a job.

Photo by Eduardo Soares

Travel habits were different, too. Hitchhiking was a legitimate transportation option, especially in rural areas without buses or trains. While concerns over safety grew by the late 80s—fueled in part by movies like The Hitchhiker—it was still common to see people thumbing a ride along New Jersey roads.

And then there was discipline. Public spanking of children was not only accepted—it was expected by some. Parents didn’t face stares or judgment for smacking a misbehaving child in the grocery store aisle. In fact, other parents might nod approvingly or offer “tips” on technique. Today, such an act could bring a police report or child services investigation.

The world has changed dramatically since those years. Cell phones, surveillance, and tighter laws have erased many of these practices, while shifting cultural norms have redefined what’s considered safe, respectful, or acceptable. For those who grew up in that era, it’s a reminder of just how much the rules of everyday life can change in a single generation.

——————————————
Key Points

  • Many everyday practices in 1980s and 90s New Jersey—from hitchhiking to kids buying cigarettes—are now illegal or socially unacceptable.
  • Unsupervised play, spontaneous visits, and public discipline were considered normal.
  • Smoking, looser transportation safety, and public shaming were routine parts of life.

From cigarette runs to streetlight curfews, Jersey life in the 80s and 90s was a different world entirely.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

FREEHOLD, NJ – Authorities have announced the arrest of a second man in connection with the June killing of a Howell Township resident found shot to death in a parked vehicle.

Prosecutors say 47-year-old Salvador J. Cabellos Diaz of Jackson Township has been charged with first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. The charges stem from the June 5 discovery of 36-year-old Rolando Acte Mejia, who was found dead from two gunshot wounds inside a vehicle on White Street.

Investigators from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Bureau and Howell Township Police determined the shooting was an isolated incident.

Another suspect, 33-year-old Juan Jesus Mejia Yanza of Howell, was arrested on June 13 and remains in custody.

Diaz is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending court proceedings. The investigation is ongoing.

The immigration status and country of origin of both individuals is unknown at this time.

——
Key Points

  • Salvador Diaz charged in June 5 fatal shooting of Howell man found in parked car
  • Another suspect, Juan Mejia Yanza, arrested in June and remains in custody
  • Authorities say shooting was isolated and posed no ongoing public threat
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

TRENTON, NJ – A state grand jury has declined to criminally charge any Essex County correctional police officers in connection with the December 2021 death of inmate Daniel Gelin, 27, of Elizabeth, following a fight at the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark.

The Attorney General’s Office says Gelin was injured during an altercation with another inmate on December 2, 2021, during which the other inmate appeared to have a weapon and made stabbing motions. Officers intervened, and medical staff treated Gelin before clearing him to return to the jail population.

The next morning, Gelin complained of difficulty walking and asked to return to the medical unit. Shortly after, officers found him on the floor of his cell. A medical emergency was called, and he was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead just after 9 a.m.

After reviewing video, witness testimony, and autopsy results, the grand jury voted “no bill” on August 4, 2025, concluding no charges should be filed against the officers. The inmate accused of stabbing Gelin was indicted in March 2022 on murder and weapons charges, with trial still pending.

——
Key Points

  • Grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing by officers in 2021 inmate death
  • Daniel Gelin died a day after fight with another inmate who allegedly used a weapon
  • Alleged attacker faces pending murder and weapons charges
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

PEMBERVILLE, OH – A Gibsonburg woman has won the $100,000 top prize on the Ohio Lottery’s $5 scratch-off game, “The Three Stooges Pie Payout.”

The winning ticket was purchased at Frobose Market IGA on Bierley Avenue in Pemberville. After state and federal taxes totaling 28 percent, she will receive $72,000.

“The Three Stooges Pie Payout” offers a top prize of $100,000, with three top prizes still available as of August 6. Since its inception in 1974, the Ohio Lottery has contributed more than $33 billion to education statewide.

――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

Key Points

  • Gibsonburg woman wins $100,000 on “The Three Stooges Pie Payout” scratch-off
  • Ticket bought at Frobose Market IGA in Pemberville
  • Winner will receive $72,000 after taxes, with three top prizes still unclaimed
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ – A Jackson Township man has been sentenced to state prison after pleading guilty to breaking into his estranged wife’s home in violation of a restraining order and assaulting her.

Prosecutors say 40-year-old Manuel Fernandez was sentenced Friday to three years in New Jersey State Prison for burglary and 18 months for contempt of a judicial or protective order, with both sentences running concurrently. The burglary sentence is subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring him to serve at least 85% before becoming eligible for parole.

The charges stem from a May 31, 2024 incident, when police say Fernandez illegally entered a Buttonwood Drive residence around 1:40 a.m., kicked down the bedroom door, and attacked the woman living there. The victim, identified as his wife, had a temporary restraining order against him. She was able to fend him off and call 911. Fernandez was arrested at the scene and has been held in the Ocean County Jail since that night.

——
Key Points

  • Manuel Fernandez sentenced to 3 years for burglary and 18 months for contempt, served concurrently
  • Incident involved violating a restraining order and assaulting his wife in her home
  • Must serve 85% of burglary sentence before parole eligibility under NERA

A Jackson Township man will serve years behind bars for breaking into his wife’s home in violation of a court order.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

FREEHOLD, NJ – A Neptune Township police officer is facing multiple criminal charges after investigators say he repeatedly lied about his criminal history and prior termination from the New York City Police Department to secure law enforcement jobs in New Jersey.

Prosecutors allege that 38-year-old Briant K. Nixon worked for the NYPD from 2012 until his 2017 termination, which stemmed from violations of departmental rules related to a 2015 arrest for domestic violence and violating a restraining order. When applying to police departments in West Wildwood, Matawan, and Neptune Township, Nixon allegedly failed to disclose his NYPD employment and criminal record, even swearing before a notary that false information in his Neptune application was true.

Authorities say Nixon also lied earlier this year when renewing his police license, falsely stating he had never been charged with a crime or been the subject of a restraining order. He now faces charges including second-degree pattern of official misconduct, multiple counts of official misconduct, tampering with public records, false swearing, and falsifying records.

Nixon has been suspended from duty pending court proceedings, with his first appearance scheduled for September 25 in Monmouth County Superior Court.

——
Key Points

  • Officer accused of hiding NYPD firing and 2015 domestic violence arrest to get police jobs
  • Applied to three NJ police departments without disclosing criminal record
  • Faces multiple misconduct and falsification charges, remains suspended from duty
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

ACCOKEEK, MD – A 24-year-old man is in custody after police say he shot and killed his mother’s boyfriend during a dispute inside their shared home early Friday.

Prince George’s County Police identified the suspect as Clarence Green Jr., charged in the killing of 38-year-old Gene Garrett Jr. Officers were called to the 16000 block of Caribbean Way just after midnight on August 8, where they found Garrett with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators said Green and Garrett lived together and that the shooting stemmed from an ongoing dispute. Green was arrested at the home without incident and is being held without bond on charges including first-degree murder and assault.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact detectives or submit tips anonymously through Crime Solvers.

――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――――

Key Points

  • Clarence Green Jr., 24, accused of killing his mother’s boyfriend in Accokeek home
  • Victim Gene Garrett Jr., 38, pronounced dead at scene from gunshot wounds
  • Dispute between cohabitants led to shooting, suspect held without bond
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

TRENTON, NJNew Jersey residents were slapped with a 20% energy price hike in July. That rate hike was in the works for months and announced on February 12th, just days after President Trump was sworn into office for a second term.

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who is running for governor in New Jersey however, continues to lie to voters, claiming that the price hike is President Trump’s fault. Sherrill’s campaign hinges on selling one big beautiful lie.

Blaming President Trump for New Jersey’s energy crisis.

Last year, rates increased 8%. Next year, they are increasing at least 5%. Energy prices have soared in New Jersey under Governor Phil Murphy’s eight-year stint, highlighted by a series of failed offshore wind energy blunders and closures of existing energy production sources in the state.

New Jersey used to be an energy importer, but under Governor Murphy, the state now relies on expensive out-of-state delivery imports.

The fight over New Jersey’s rising energy bills boiled over again Friday as Rep. Mikie Sherrill doubled down on her claim that President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” is responsible for the state’s soaring utility costs — a statement Republican Jack Ciattarelli has dismissed as false and politically motivated.

In a newly released video, Sherrill argued that the Trump-backed legislation led to an average $240 increase in annual household energy bills. She also placed part of the blame on PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator that manages electricity for multiple states, claiming that its “failures” tacked on an additional $400 per year for New Jersey customers. According to Sherrill, these combined factors are major contributors to the financial strain households are now feeling.

There’s just one problem. These rate hikes came long before Donald Trump was re-elected as president, and Mikie Sherrill and the Democrats know that.

A poll this week confirmed what we all knew. Most New Jersey residents blame Governor Phil Murphy for the rate hike. They also blame the governor for the state’s failed reliance of offshore wind energy and the closure of multiple nuclear and natural gas energy plants.

“This isn’t about partisan politics,” Sherrill said in the video. “It’s about calling out the policies and mismanagement that have directly raised costs for New Jersey families.”

But Ciattarelli, the former state Assemblyman and 2021 Republican gubernatorial candidate, quickly fired back. In his own recorded statement, he accused Sherrill of trying to “shift blame away from herself and Trenton Democrats” and described her remarks as “a masterclass in finger-pointing and fiction.”

Ciattarelli insisted that New Jersey’s energy price spikes are a direct result of state-level decisions championed by Democrats — including offshore wind projects, electric vehicle mandates, and restrictions on new natural gas infrastructure. He argued these initiatives have reduced in-state energy generation capacity, leaving New Jersey increasingly dependent on importing electricity from other states like Pennsylvania, which he says drives up costs for consumers.

“Your energy prices aren’t going up because of some regional nonprofit you’ve never heard of,” Ciattarelli said, referring to PJM. “They’re going up because Phil Murphy, Mikie Sherrill, and Trenton Democrats were obsessed with failed offshore wind farms, unrealistic EV mandates, and banning affordable energy sources like natural gas.”

The Republican also mocked Sherrill’s past enthusiasm for offshore wind development, referencing a column where she compared it to the light bulb as one of New Jersey’s greatest innovations. “Who says that?” Ciattarelli asked in the video.

As part of his own vision, Ciattarelli vowed to end offshore wind projects if elected governor, reinvest in nuclear energy, and restore natural gas expansion as part of what he called a “balanced and affordable” energy strategy. “The days of excuses and blame are over,” he said. “It’s time to fix our state’s energy policy and deliver safe, clean, and sustainable energy at a price people can afford.”

New Jersey’s energy debate has been amplified by concerns over supply stability, climate policy mandates, and the pace of renewable energy adoption. Offshore wind development — a central point of contention — has faced setbacks, including the cancellation of planned projects and questions over economic viability. Meanwhile, environmental advocates argue that long-term investment in renewables is essential to reducing carbon emissions, even if it comes with short-term cost pressures.

For Sherrill, spotlighting Trump’s legislation and PJM’s operational decisions allows her to focus attention on external forces beyond Trenton’s control. For Ciattarelli, hammering offshore wind and EV mandates provides a direct line of attack on state Democrats ahead of the next gubernatorial contest.

——
Key Points

  • Mikie Sherrill blames Trump legislation and PJM for annual energy bill increases of up to $640 in New Jersey
  • Jack Ciattarelli calls her claims false, blaming state policies like offshore wind projects and EV mandates for higher costs
  • Energy prices have become a focal point in the state’s political fight over renewable policy, infrastructure, and affordability
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

You can't access this website

Shore News Network provides free news to users. No paywalls. No subscriptions. Please support us by disabling ad blocker or using a different browser and trying again.