Program

Harford County Sheriff’s Office Concludes Annual Badges for Baseball Program

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — The Harford County Sheriff’s Office recently concluded its annual Badges for Baseball program with an award ceremony held at the Boys and Girls Club in Edgewood. The event celebrated the successful partnership between deputies and local youth, as they gathered weekly throughout the summer to play baseball, build relationships, and learn valuable lessons in teamwork. The program, which took place at both the Edgewood and Bel Air Boys and Girls Club locations, aims to foster positive interactions between law enforcement and the community’s children. This year’s ceremony also marked the final participation of Youth and Community

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Armstrong Group to Pay $6.5 Million for Violating FCC High-Cost Program Rules

BUTLER, PA — The Armstrong Group, based in Butler, Pennsylvania, has agreed to a $6.5 million settlement to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act. The company was accused of knowingly violating Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules governing the High-Cost Program and submitting improper costs to inflate subsidies received from the federal Universal Service Fund (USF). The USF, established by the FCC, aims to ensure that all Americans have access to rapid, efficient nationwide communications services at reasonable charges. The High-Cost Program, one of four programs within the USF, provides federal funds to qualified telecommunications carriers to expand

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Pennsylvania Game Commission Launches Shooting Range Improvement Program

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Game Commission has announced the launch of the Shooting Range Improvement Program, a new grant initiative aimed at enhancing shooting facilities across the state. This program is part of the agency’s broader mission supported by federal excise tax dollars under the Pittman-Robertson Act. The grant program will fund various projects to improve opportunity, access, and safety at sportsmen’s clubs throughout Pennsylvania. Eligible projects include the development and renovation of shooting facilities, construction of backstops and safety berms, installation of permanent target systems, creation of shooting stations and covers, and lead remediation efforts. This initiative is

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Governor Murphy Announces Criminal Clemency Program in New Jersey

New Jersey’s criminal justice system lacks equity and fairness, Governor Claims Newark, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has signed Executive Order No. 362 to expedite the review process for certain clemency applications. This order includes specific categories such as non-violent convictions and cases involving excessive trial penalties. It aims to address systemic inequities in the criminal legal system. The initiative, according to Murphy was enacted to benefit what he termed “black and brown” communities in New Jersey. “As we celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on our nation’s ongoing journey toward racial justice for Black and Brown Americans, I am proud to

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Ankle Monitoring Program for Domestic Violence Perps in Ocean County Approved

TRENTON, NJ — The New Jersey Senate has approved a bill introduced by Senator Troy Singleton that aims to enhance the enforcement of domestic violence restraining orders through electronic monitoring. This legislation, known as S-1385, initiates a four-year pilot program in Ocean County, targeting certain domestic violence offenders. The bill is inspired by the tragic case of Letizia “Lisa” Zindell of Toms River, who was murdered by her former fiancé shortly after his release from jail for violating a restraining order she had filed against him. Senator Singleton has championed this cause for years, facing previous setbacks including a veto

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New Jersey Governor Signs Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program Into Law

TRENTON, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation, A2027/S2330, that introduces the State Work First New Jersey Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program and the Diaper Benefit Program. An appropriation of $2.5 million from the General Fund has been directed to the Department of Human Services’ Division of Family Development to manage these initiatives. The new programs are part of the state’s Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) cash assistance framework, which aids eligible residents with financial support including child care, job readiness, and housing. Participants aged 18 to 50 in the Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program will receive a $14 monthly benefit

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A New Accelerated Three-Year Nursing Program Announced at New Jersey University

Union, NJ — Kean University is now accepting applications for its newly launched undergraduate nursing degree program, enabling students to earn a bachelor’s degree and qualify as registered nurses (RN) in just three years. Classes for the Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) program will begin this Fall at the university’s main campus. The program aims to expedite the path to a nursing career. Students will complete 120 credits, including summer courses, allowing them to become licensed RNs in approximately half the time typically required. “The program is designed to propel aspiring nurses into the profession in just three years,”

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Governor Murphy Hosts Pride Month Celebration Announcing New School Inclusion Program

PRINCETON, NJ—During the annual Pride Month celebration at Drumthwacket on June 17, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 361, establishing the Advisory Commission on Advancing LGBTQIA+ Youth Equity and Inclusion in Schools. This initiative aims to enhance the supportive and equitable environment for LGBTQIA+ students across New Jersey. The commission will address key issues such as harassment, bullying, and the heightened risk of mental health issues among LGBTQIA+ youth, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. “Providing for the well-being of New Jersey’s young people is not a responsibility I take lightly,” Governor Murphy stated, emphasizing the importance of creating

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Ocean County Could Be Test Bed for New Domestic Violence Ankle Monitor Program

TRENTON, NJ — Assemblywoman Carol A. Murphy of District 7 (Burlington) has introduced Bill A3731, which aims to establish a four-year pilot program in Ocean County for the electronic monitoring of certain domestic violence offenders. The program, set to be named “Lisa’s Law” in honor of Letizia Zindell of Toms River, a domestic violence victim murdered by her former fiancée, seeks to enhance victim safety and offender accountability. The bill outlines a comprehensive approach to monitoring offenders, requiring informed consent from victims before implementation. It specifies that electronic monitoring may be ordered by the court after assessing factors such as

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Brick Township Celebrates D.A.R.E Program Graduates

BRICK, NJ – Mayor Lisa Crate and the Brick Township Police Department have extended their congratulations to the graduates of the 2024 D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program. The commendation ceremony was highlighted by special thanks to Officers Flynn and Murphy, whose commitment and efforts were pivotal in the success of this year’s program. The Brick Township Police Department praised the officers for their hard work and the significant impact they have had on the students. The successful completion of the D.A.R.E program by these graduates marks an important step towards fostering a safer and drug-free community in Brick Township.

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Belleville Launches TNR Program to Manage Feral Cat Populations

BELLEVILLE, NJ—The Township of Belleville has initiated a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program aimed at effectively managing the local feral cat populations. This program represents a humane strategy to control community cats while fostering better relationships between these animals and residents. The TNR process involves three key steps: trapping, neutering or spaying, and returning the cats. Community cats are first humanely trapped and then taken to a veterinary clinic where they are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and eartipped. Eartipping serves as a universal indicator that a cat has undergone the TNR process. Once the medical procedures are completed, the cats are returned

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Bronx DA Launches Summer Internship Program for Aspiring Legal Minds

BRONX, NY — Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced the launch of the 2024 Summer Internship Program, which has welcomed 118 law and undergraduate students to gain practical experience within the Bronx District Attorney’s Office. The program, running from June 3 to July 26, includes 86 law students from 34 schools across New York and the United States, with eight hailing from the Bronx. Additionally, 32 undergraduates from 19 colleges in the New York area are participating, including at least 12 Bronx natives. Under the guidance of the Recruitment Bureau and the Litigation Training Bureau, interns will engage in

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Somerset County Launches “Safe Place” Program to Combat Bias and Hate Crimes

SOMERVILLE, NJ — In a timely announcement coinciding with Pride Month, Somerset County officials have unveiled the new “Safe Place” program aimed at providing refuge for victims of bias and hate crimes. Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald, alongside Chief of County Detectives Francisco Roman Jr., and Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson, introduced the initiative alongside local business representatives. The “Safe Place” program, which involves businesses and organizations displaying a designated logo on their storefronts, offers a secure environment for victims to seek immediate help. This initiative was originally developed by the Seattle Police Department in 2015 and

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Ocean County’s First-Time Homebuyers Program Boosts Home Ownership Dreams

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ—The First-Time Homebuyers Program in Ocean County has successfully assisted 585 families in achieving their home ownership dreams, according to the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. This initiative, celebrated especially during National Homeownership Month in June, has been a cornerstone in helping low- and moderate-income residents secure a place they can call home. The program, funded annually by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), offers essential financial support through a $15,000 deferred loan for down payments and closing costs, which is forgivable after six years. Barbara “Bobbi” Jo Crea, Director of the Ocean County Board

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Perth Amboy Police Department Celebrates Achievements of Youth Cadet Program

PERTH AMBOY, NJ — The Perth Amboy Police Department highlighted the accomplishments of participants in its Police Youth Cadet Academy, praising the cadets for their dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm. The program enables students to explore law enforcement careers while engaging in community service and developing teamwork and communication skills. Cadets have positively impacted their peers and mentors through their commitment and eagerness to learn. The department expressed pride in these students and anticipation for their future contributions. Special thanks were extended to Chief Cattano, Kenny Ortiz from the Office of Recreation, and core staff members including Counselor Mabel Leonardo, Lt.

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Ten Individuals Charged with Theft of Federal Program Funds from Tuskegee University

           The individuals named in the indictment are: (1) Wanda Tyner Hairston, 51, from Auburn, Alabama; (2) Lora Regina Baker, 52, from Montgomery, Alabama; (3) Keyonn Dalarrion Cannon, 26, from Tuskegee, Alabama; (4) Lanequia Shanice Cooper, 29, also from Auburn; (5) Ledaryl Tremayne Johnson, 27, from Tuskegee, Alabama; (6) Jeanette Moss-Smith, 50, also from Auburn; (7) Cassandra Harris Parker, 61, also from Tuskegee; (8) Phyllis Vanessa Tyner, 57, also from Auburn; (9) Morris Gene Welch, another resident of Auburn; and (10) Abraham Torbert Wright, Jr., 23, also from Tuskegee. All ten are charged with conspiracy to

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Solar Energy Company Agrees to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Related to Paycheck Protection Program Loan

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act authorized forgivable PPP loans for small businesses experiencing economic uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic. In most cases, the maximum amount a small business could receive was 2.5 times its average monthly payroll. For purposes of calculating payroll costs, the CARES Act excluded any compensation to an individual employee in excess of an annual salary of $100,000. AUSTIN – Freedom Solar LLC, a solar energy company that installs photovoltaic solar arrays for residential and commercial customers, has agreed to pay $425,710 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in

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Omaha Man Sentenced for COVID-19 Relief Program Fraud

During 2020 and 2021, Harper, assisted by another person, submitted applications for Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program loans. Those loan programs were created or expanded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act, which was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jackie Harper, 51, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on May 8, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for making false statements to the Small Business Administration.  United States District Court

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EXCLUSIVE: GOP Lawmakers Demand Answers From Biden Admin On Massive Grants For ‘Environmental Justice’ Program

Republican lawmakers wrote to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan on Wednesday to demand answers about one of the agency’s “environmental justice” grant programs. Republican Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington and Buddy Carter of Georgia, two leading members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote to Regan to request that his agency brief the committee about its $600 million Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. The lawmakers raised specific concerns about some of the organizations the agency selected as awardees for the program, to whom the agency is giving tens of millions of dollars to distribute to

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2024 Striped Bass Bonus Program Opens Soon in New Jersey

NEW JERSEY — Anglers in New Jersey are gearing up for the 2024 fishing season, with the Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) set to open in just two weeks. Those interested in participating in this year’s program, including individual anglers and party/charter boats, can now submit their applications. It is important to note that permits issued in 2023 are not valid for the 2024 season. Applicants must visit the SBBP webpage for detailed application instructions and additional information about the program. Additionally, all anglers are required to register for free with the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program before fishing. Registrations

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EXCLUSIVE: Top Biden Bureaucrat Consulted With Eco-Activists To Justify Infusing Social Justice Into Wind Program

A senior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) official consulted climate activists about finding legal justification for the agency’s push to get developers to invest in “underserved communities,” according to communications obtained by Protect the Public’s Trust. Marissa Knodel, a senior adviser at BOEM who formerly worked for eco-advocacy group Earthjustice, sought the advice of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Ocean Conservancy, two environmental activist groups, in 2021. Knodel was looking for a legal explanation as to how encouraging offshore wind developers to invest in “underserved communities” aligns with BOEM’s mission, the discovered emails reveal. Specifically, Knodel

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Former NJ Governor Christie to Open Prisoner Reentry Program in Downtown Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ—Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will inaugurate a new center for the New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC) in Downtown Toms River. The center will replace an existing office in an building further north on Main Street. The NJRC, a non-profit organization dedicated to removing employment barriers for individuals returning from incarceration, aims to foster a supportive environment that encourages positive social behaviors and family reunification. The new center will be located in a former Chase Bank branch next to the 7-11 intersection of Main St and Water St. Christie is scheduled to appear at the center on

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Toms River Announces 2024 Summer Children’s Theater Program

Toms River Township is thrilled to present the 2024 Summer Children’s Theater Program, set to take place at the Toms River High School South Auditorium from July 1 through August 9. The program, running Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm, offers children a fantastic opportunity to learn singing, dancing, staging, and choreography. Participants will also gain valuable experience in performing comfortably on stage. Experienced instructors will guide the students through the various aspects of theater production, culminating in a recital at the end of the program. Note that there will be additional evening rehearsals and performance times

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Air Force Chief Admits To Matt Gaetz That Lockheed Martin Basically Controls F-35 Fighter Jet Program

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall admitted to struggling for influence over the troubled F-35 advanced fighter jet when GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida pressed him on builder Lockheed Martin’s control of the program. A government watchdog investigation released April 15 reported that the F-35 Lighting II has consistently failed to meet performance goals while continuing to rise in projected costs over the lengthening lifespan of the program. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found the Department of Defense (DOD) relies excessively on the prime contractor Lockheed Martin for maintenance, sustainment and upgrades, which Gaetz said essentially gave the company control over the Air Force’s “signature” platform at a

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ALAN DERSHOWITZ: Why Is Biden Stopping Israel From Attacking Iran’s Nuclear Weapons Program?

Iran declared war on Israel by sending more than 300 bombs in Israel’s direction, aimed at civilian as well as military targets in Jerusalem and other locations. As a matter of law and morality, Israel is entitled to respond to this act of war by overwhelming, even disproportionate, force against Iranian military targets. Yet, President Biden has warned Israel not to take such permissible action. Biden wants Israel simply to proclaim victory and not respond appropriately. This will only encourage Iran to take further military action against Israel either directly or through its numerous proxies. Iran claims that Israel acted

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