Jersey’s - Shore News Network

New Jersey’s 5 Most Dangerous Towns in 2025: See Who Made the List

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 11, 20250

New Jersey, often celebrated as the “Garden State” for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, is not without its challenges. While the state ranks among the safer regions in the U.S., certain towns grapple with elevated crime rates that starkly contrast with its idyllic reputation. Based on the latest available crime data and projections for 2025, here are the five most dangerous towns in New Jersey, where residents and visitors alike are urged to exercise caution. Atlantic City: The Risk Beneath the Glitz Topping the list is Atlantic City, a coastal resort town synonymous with casinos and boardwalk glamour. With

Exploring New Jersey’s Forgotten Villages and Ghost Towns

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 4, 20250

New Jersey has a rich history of boom towns that thrived during periods of industrial growth, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries, only to decline and become abandoned or derelict as industries faded. Here are five such towns that were once bustling centers of activity and are now largely forgotten or in ruins: Batsto Village (Burlington County) Feltville (Union County) Harrisville (Burlington County) Weymouth Furnace (Atlantic County) Sea Breeze (Cumberland County) These towns, once vital to New Jersey’s economy and culture, fell into decline due to shifts in industry, natural disasters, or changing societal preferences. Today, they stand as

Study Reveals New Jersey’s Top Ten Vices

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 4, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — A new study analyzing online search trends has revealed that alcohol is the most common vice New Jersey residents are determined to quit in 2025. The research, conducted by Start Your Recovery, found that alcohol ranked highest, with 12.22 searches per 10,000 residents looking for ways to quit. Smoking followed closely with 9.37 searches, while gambling (8.77), junk food (5.76), and pornography (4.25) rounded out the top five. The study analyzed Google search data from over 1,000 keywords related to quitting habits, such as “how to quit alcohol” and “how to stop gambling.” The findings suggest that

New Jersey’s Senior Citizen Exodus Continues for Third Straight Year

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 4, 20250

New Jersey tops nation in outbound moves as residents seek affordability TRENTON, N.J. — For the seventh consecutive year, New Jersey has led the nation in outbound migration, with 67% of United Van Lines customers leaving the state in 2024, according to the company’s 48th Annual National Movers Study. The primary reasons cited were retirement (22%) and the desire to be closer to family (20%), with more than 40% of those leaving aged 65 or older. Among New Jersey residents moving away, 20% relocated to Florida, a state known for its lower taxes and warmer climate. The trend highlights a

Stop the E-ZPass Betrayal: New Jersey’s Data Deserves American Protection

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 2, 20250

New Jersey drivers, buckle up—because your personal data, travel habits, and daily routines are on the verge of being handed over to a foreign company with troubling ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The New Jersey Turnpike Authority’s decision to award a $1.73 billion, 11-year E-ZPass contract to TransCore—a Nashville-based firm owned by Singapore Technologies Engineering (ST Engineering), which is in turn controlled by Singapore’s Temasek Holdings—is nothing short of a reckless gamble with our privacy and security. Governor Phil Murphy must hit the brakes on this deal immediately, launch a full investigation, and rebid the contract to an

Letter to the Editor: Ed Durr, the Trucker, is New Jersey’s True Conservative Choice for Governor

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 2, 20250

As New Jersey gears up for the 2025 gubernatorial race, one candidate stands head and shoulders above the rest—not because he’s a polished politician, but because he’s a real, blue-collar conservative who’s never wavered on the issues that matter. Ed Durr, famously known as “The Trucker,” is the only contender in this crowded field who hasn’t bent the knee to political expediency or trashed President Donald Trump. While others flip-flop to chase votes, Durr’s steady resolve makes him the clear choice to lead our state. Look at the Republican field—Jack Ciattarelli, Jon Bramnick, Bill Spadea—all seasoned players with name recognition

Governor Murphy releases New Jersey’s Wealth Disparity Task Force report to cap off Black History Month

Breaking Local News ReportMarch 1, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way announced the release of the Wealth Disparity Task Force’s report Friday, outlining the root causes of economic disparities affecting Black and Latino New Jerseyans and recommending strategies to close opportunity gaps. The report, titled New Jersey – Building A State of Opportunity, was shaped by the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, who co-chaired the task force until her passing. The findings highlight historical and systemic factors that have led to generational wealth gaps and propose policy changes to foster economic equity. “The findings in this report underscore the

Murphy Touts Affordability in Budget Address, But New Jersey’s Rising Costs and Taxes Tell a Different Story

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 27, 20250

Trenton, NJ – In his annual budget address delivered on Tuesday, February 25, Governor Phil Murphy painted an optimistic picture of New Jersey’s affordability, claiming his administration has made historic strides in reducing the tax burden on residents. However, mounting evidence suggests that under his leadership, the state has become less affordable, with property taxes soaring and the cost of living climbing higher than ever. Speaking before a joint session of the state Legislature, Murphy highlighted his administration’s efforts to bolster property tax relief, particularly through the ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) Program. “Over the past

Could Nuclear Fusion be the Answer to New Jersey’s Renewable Energy Supply? One Lawkmaker Says Yes

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 25, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — A new bill introduced in the New Jersey Legislature aims to classify fusion energy as a Class I renewable energy source under the state’s “Electric Discount and Energy Competition Act.” Sponsored by State Senator Joseph Pennacchio (R-26), the legislation seeks to expand the definition of renewable energy to include nuclear fusion, a process that scientists believe could provide a clean and abundant power source in the future. Although electricity generation from nuclear fusion has not yet been commercially achieved, proponents argue that it holds significant potential as a zero-carbon energy source. Unlike nuclear fission, which is used

Hackers Break Into Network of One of New Jersey’s Largest Newspapers

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 24, 20250

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Lee Enterprises, the parent company of several local newspapers, including The Press of Atlantic City, has confirmed it was the target of a ransomware attack that disrupted operations across at least 75 publications. The attack, first reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 3, caused technology outages that affected printed newspapers, subscription accounts, and internal services. In an update to the SEC on Tuesday, Lee revealed that hackers accessed its network, encrypted critical applications, and exfiltrated files—hallmarks of a ransomware attack. “The incident impacted the Company’s operations, including distribution of products, billing, collections,

Governor Murphy Touts New Jersey’s Record Population Growth As He Forces School Closures and Teacher Firings

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 21, 20250

TRENTON, NJ – Phil Murphy’s legacy in New Jersey might not be his COVID-19 lockdowns but his new reputation as the School Closer-In-Chief. While the governor is touting the state’s success via a rapidly increasing population consisting mostly of illegal migrants, he’s not saying much about the mass teacher layoffs and school closures surrounding him in his own state. Murphy’s response, “You’re going to have to close a few schools.” Unacceptable as the quality of education in America and New Jersey is in a steep decline. New Jersey, heralded as one of the fastest-growing states in America, is facing an

Owners of Controversial Trump Themed New Jersey Store Announce Closure, Plan for Future

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 21, 20250

Toms River, NJ – – The “Let’s Go Brandon” store, a polarizing retail fixture at 1405 Route 37 East in Toms River, New Jersey, has announced a store closing sale, bringing an end to its nearly three-year run as a hub for supporters of former President Donald J. Trump, the 2nd Amendment, and the “Back the Blue” movement. Owners Vincent Scuzzese and Gregory Dooner confirmed the closure this week, citing shifting priorities and market changes, though they remain proud of the legacy their store leaves behind. “This message is in is to inform everyone of our Proud Patriot supporters that

New Jersey’s frigid weather to persist through weekend before warming next week

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 21, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. – Bitter cold temperatures will grip New Jersey through the weekend, but a significant warm-up is expected early next week, according to forecasters. Friday’s high will reach around 34 degrees under mostly sunny skies, with strong northwest winds gusting up to 35 mph making it feel even colder. Overnight lows will drop to around 16 degrees, with winds continuing at 10 to 15 mph. Temperatures will gradually rise over the weekend, with a high near 40 degrees on Saturday and 43 degrees on Sunday. Winds will remain light, and conditions will be mostly sunny. Overnight lows will stay

Mysterious Geometric Patterns Carved into New Jersey’s Coastal Marshes Explained

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 20, 20250

From above, New Jersey’s coastal wetlands and marshes present a striking and perplexing sight: a network of mysterious squares and straight lines cutting through the lush green expanse. These geometric patterns, visible on satellite imagery and aerial views, have long puzzled residents, visitors, and researchers alike. Are they the work of ancient civilizations, modern engineering, or something more unexpected? Recent investigations into these enigmatic features reveal a fascinating story rooted in history, ecology, and human intervention. New Jersey boasts over 200,000 acres of salt marshes, vital ecosystems that serve as nurseries for fish, crabs, and birds while acting as natural

New Jersey’s Plastic Bag, Straw Could End if This Candidate is Elected Governor

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 10, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey’s sweeping ban on single-use plastics, one of the strictest in the country, remains a point of contention as political figures and environmental advocates debate its future. Signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy in November 2020, the legislation prohibits single-use plastic and paper bags, polystyrene foam containers, and limits the availability of plastic straws. The law aimed to curb plastic pollution in landfills and waterways, but its implementation has sparked both praise and criticism. Retailers and food service businesses had an 18-month transition period to comply. While environmental groups have hailed the ban for reducing

Dem Candidate Asks DNC for $10 Million in Campaign Funding for New Jersey’s 2025 Governor Race

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 3, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a candidate for New Jersey governor, is calling on the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to commit at least $10 million to the state’s 2025 gubernatorial race, arguing that the future of the party runs through New Jersey. In a memo addressed to all DNC chair candidates, Sherrill warned that Democrats cannot take New Jersey for granted, citing a 10-point rightward shift in the state’s 2024 election results as a sign of Republican momentum. “The DNC must show up in New Jersey because the next generation of the party cannot take anyone, anywhere — even

Murphy credits progressive policies for New Jersey’s growth, downplays impact of undocumented immigrants

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 2, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy said New Jersey’s population growth is being driven by its policies on abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protections, rather than the state’s large undocumented immigrant population. “The good news is we’re hot… People are moving in,” Murphy said. He cited a recent Los Angeles Times report suggesting that internal migration within the U.S. is increasingly tied to access to reproductive rights and other freedoms. “Most of them are, I think, moving in for the right reasons. Some of them are moving in for the wrong reasons,” he added, clarifying that while New Jersey benefits, the

Murphy defends New Jersey’s immigrant sanctuary protections, signals support for new legislation

Breaking Local News ReportFebruary 2, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting immigrants in New Jersey, defending existing policies while signaling potential support for the proposed Immigrant Trust Act. Speaking about his administration’s approach, Murphy emphasized the use of legal action, executive orders, and public advocacy to counter federal immigration enforcement efforts. “To be aggressive—legal action, using the bully pulpit—mine especially,” Murphy said, adding that New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin has also played a key role in these efforts. Murphy recalled an instance during Trump’s first term when concerns arose over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) targeting day laborers

Toms River Rejects New Jersey’s Latest High Density, Low-Income Housing Demands

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 31, 20250

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The state of New Jersey is trying to force Toms River Township to build almost 700 new high-density affordable housing units, but Mayor Dan Rodrick and the township council are fighting back against Phil Murphy’s mandated overdevelopment. Mayor Rodrick looked into the state’s demands, and the township calculated that it has not only met the state’s previous requirements, it exceeded those requirements under former Mayor Maurice Hill. The Toms River Township Council has formally rejected the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) latest non-binding calculation of the township’s affordable housing obligation, asserting that the state’s numbers

New Jersey’s Largest Newspaper to Print Final Edition This Weekend

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 29, 20250

NEWARK, N.J. — The Star-Ledger, New Jersey’s largest newspaper, will cease print publication next month following years of declining circulation, rising costs, and shifting reader preferences, its parent company announced. The final print edition of The Star-Ledger will be published on February 2, 2025, along with The Times of Trenton and South Jersey Times. The weekly Hunterdon County Democrat will print its last issue on January 30, 2025. The newspaper’s Montville production facility will also be shut down. In addition to economic challenges, The Star-Ledger has lost readership in recent decades as it adopted a more left-leaning editorial stance and

Study Suggests New Jersey’s Plastic Straw Ban Could Have Long Term Health Consequences

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 29, 20250

TRENTON, NJ – A recent investigation into the environmental and health impacts of drinking straws has turned the conversation on its head, challenging the notion that paper straws are a more benign alternative to plastic. Published in the journal Food Additives & Contaminants, a study led by environmental scientist Dr. Thimo Groffen from the University of Antwerp has revealed that paper straws can harbor significant levels of potentially harmful chemicals. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has instituted a plastic straw ban in an environmental protection effort, however, a study claims chemicals in the ink released by those new paper straws

New Jersey’s Drone Mystery Solved, White House Announces

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 28, 20250

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump, through White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, addressed the recent spate of drone sightings over New Jersey’s shoreline, emphasizing that the activity was not cause for alarm. After research and study, the drones that were flying over New Jersey in large numbers were authorized to be flown by the FAA for research and various other reasons”, Leavitt said, relaying the president’s remarks during a briefing. The clarification comes amid growing public concern and speculation about the unusual drone activity reported in recent weeks. Leavitt said she was briefed before Tuesday’s press briefing by President Trump

Trump Puts Brakes on New Jersey’s 2035 Gas Car Ban

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 20, 20250

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump-Vance administration has initiated efforts to reverse federal and state policies aimed at phasing out internal combustion engine vehicles, a key promise made during President Donald J. Trump’s 2024 campaign. On its first day in office, the administration began the process of revising federal rules and reviewing the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to grant California a waiver allowing the state—and others following its lead—to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars and trucks. The administration’s actions were applauded by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), which advocates for consumer choice in vehicle and fuel

Trump derails New Jersey’s Offshore Wind Plans, Temporarily Halting New Offshore Energy Leases

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 20, 20250

TRENTON, N.J. — President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order on Monday temporarily banning new offshore wind energy leases and halting federal permits for existing projects, sparking concerns in New Jersey, where the burgeoning offshore wind industry is integral to the state’s clean energy goals. The order, titled “Temporary Withdrawal of All Areas on the Outer Continental Shelf from Offshore Wind Leasing and Review of the Federal Government’s Leasing and Permitting Practices for Wind Projects,” directs a suspension of all offshore wind leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) starting January 21, 2025. It also calls for a comprehensive

Six Planet Alignment Visibile This Month in New Jersey Nighttime Sky

Breaking Local News ReportJanuary 16, 20250

Stargazers are in for a celestial treat as Venus and Saturn kick off 2025’s first major planetary alignment on Saturday, appearing just 2.2 degrees apart in the night sky. This rare “planet parade” marks the beginning of several planetary gatherings visible throughout the year. The event will continue into mid-February, offering extended opportunities to witness multiple planets aligning after sunset. NASA notes that while planet parades are not exceedingly rare, they are special occurrences that don’t happen annually. From Nasa: All month – Four planets Visible: In the first couple of hours after dark, you’ll find Venus and Saturn in the