New Jersey State News

Gregory Yetman, wanted in connection with U.S. Capitol assault, turns himself in to authorities in New Jersey, FBI says

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 22:30:00 +0000

MONROE, N.J. -- The FBI manhunt for Gregory Yetman, a New Jersey man wanted in connection with the Jan. 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol, ended when he surrendered to authorities on Friday.

Police said Yetman, 47, turned himself in without incident at the Monroe Township Police Department and was in FBI custody. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Monday.

According to authorities, Yetman fled his home in Helmetta on Wednesday when FBI agents arrived to serve him with a federal warrant. Police said he hopped a fence, then ran toward train tracks and into a wooded area.

Armed FBI agents wearing camouflage, members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force and search dogs were then seen outside a community center in Helmetta for several hours.

"The FBI was quite confident that he remained local. So it was refreshing this morning to receive a report that he did turn himself in to the Monroe Township Police Department without incident," said Helmetta Mayor Christopher Slavicek.

Yetman was unarmed when he arrived at the police station, FBI officials said.

"I am glad it's over," said Matt Garbowski, a Helmetta resident. "The helicopters are gone. That was pretty annoying, and just the general sense of unease."

"I think we were a little scared. I work for a school so we were just a little hesitant about letting kids go out," said Spotswood resident Lynn Marfitt.

The FBI had released pictures that the agency said show Yetman at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 when hundreds stormed the complex.

At the time, Yetman was a military police sergeant in the New Jersey National Guard, authorities said. The New Jersey National Guard confirmed he served for about 12 years until March 2022.

Yetman was charged with an array of felony offenses, including assaulting officers, obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder, entering a restricted area and engaging in physical violence.

The FBI said Yetman refused medical treatment at the time of his surrender. CBS New York did not receive a comment from Yetman or his family.

First Alert Weather: Cool with highs in low 50s, showers possible south of NYC

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:49:00 +0000

Forecast

CBS New York

Today: Showers mainly south of the city through early this afternoon; late clearing. A little cooler with highs in the low 50s.

Tonight: Mostly clear and colder. Lows in the 40s and 30s.

Tomorrow (Veterans Day): Mostly sunny, chilly and breezy. Highs in the low 50s with wind chills in the 40s.

Looking ahead

CBS New York

Sunday: Mostly sunny and even colder. Highs in the 40s.

Monday: Mostly to partly sunny and still chilly. Highs in the upper 40s.

Jillian Ludwig, New Jersey college student shot and killed in Nashville, remembered for her love of music

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 04:49:00 +0000

BRIELLE, N.J. -- A New Jersey student shot by a stray bullet while away at school in Tennessee has died.

On Thursday night, her community at home was mourning her death.

Outside the Church in Brielle, loved ones and friend honored one of their own, 18-year-old Jillian Ludwig.

"The community is reeling," music teacher Dawne Mechlinski said.

Watch Alecia Reid's report

Jillian Ludwig, N.J. college student shot and killed in Nashville, remembered for her love of music 02:01

Ludwig had a passion for singing and music. She followed her dream of inspiring others through music and found her way to Belmont University in Nashville, where she was a student.

"She was ready to embrace the world and shine that light and this is a very difficult time for everyone," Mechlinski said.

Police said Ludwig was walking in a park on Tuesday when she was shot in the head. Shaquille Taylor, who has since been arrested by Metro-Nashville police, is accused of shooting at a car from the public housing building across the street.

"It's unbelievable. It's hard to just sink in," Louis LaFazia, pastor of the Church in Brielle. "This one hit really hard because it came out of the blue."

Watch Nick Caloway's report

College student from New Jersey dies in Nashville shooting 02:00

The Church in Brielle community is in deep mourning, holding vigils since word of the shooting. Counselors were made available after Thursday night's prayer.

"If people want to hang out and be together and just have community with each other and support, love and cry together, whatever they need to do," LaFazia said.

Whatever they'll need, now that a beloved member of their community has been taken away, someone who was dedicated to improving the lives around her through volunteering and raising money for causes she believed in.

"Our service this evening will hopefully exemplify our love for her through our music. Many of her peers are stepping up tonight to sing in the community because it's our way of hugging our community. We're a singing family," Mechlinski said.

Taylor was initially facing aggravated assault and evidence tampering charges while Ludwig was in critical condition. Police have not said if those charges will be upgraded now that she has passed away.

American Legion Post in Hoboken hosts "Ruck the River" event ahead of Veterans Day

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 04:33:00 +0000

HOBOKEN, N.J. -- Veterans showed support Thursday night for group of Afghan soldiers who helped U.S. forces following the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks.

American Legion Post 107 in Hoboken hosted a "Ruck the River" event ahead of Veterans Day.

"Ruck" is a military term for a long march, while carrying gear. On Thursday night, a group took part in a two-mile march starting at Pier A, which is home to the 9/11 Memorial.

"These Afghans ask nothing of us. And then 20 years later, when the disaster struck and the Taliban took over the country again, we felt it necessary to reach out to these men and try to assist them, like they assisted us," retired CIA officer David Tyson said.

Funds raised will go towards the soldiers and their families.

Former New Jersey governor Jim McGreevey running for Jersey City mayor

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 22:47:00 +0000

JERSEY CITY, N.J. -- After former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey resigned from office nearly two decades ago, he announced Thursday he's running for mayor of Jersey City.

McGreevey, surrounded by many members of the state's Democratic political machine, officially announced his campaign at a local restaurant.

"I will work tirelessly to bring immediate, prudent change to Jersey City," said McGreevey, who once promised he'd never return to politics. "This election is not about yesterday. It's about our tomorrows. And candidly, I have made mistakes in my own life for which I have apologized and owned."

McGreevey, 66, resigned as governor nearly 20 years ago when a lawsuit threatened to expose an extramarital affair with a man he appointed to a homeland security post.

"My truth is that I am a gay American," McGreevey said when he resigned.

The resignation is now part of McGreevey's campaign video, where he's seen contemplating in between clips of that historic moment.

Former New Jersey Gov. Jim McGreevey eyes political comeback 11:04

His daughter, also featured in the video, stood by him during Thursday's announcement.

"Our family roots in this city run deep," said Jaclyn McGreevey.

Hudson County Commissioner Bill O'Dea said he's challenging McGreevey and announcing his candidacy on Nov. 18.

"The issue of giving a job to run homeland security or involved with homeland security, right after 9/11, to someone you had a personal relationship with, yeah, I mean, that's a problem," said O'Dea. "I have lived in this city all my life, went to school here, spent my whole life here. I know the streets and neighborhoods better than anybody."

McGreevey said a degree in theology and work in prison reform have helped him become a better person.

"Those were invaluable lessons. I dealt with people who came out of prison who had nothing, who didn't have a dime, who didn't have a place to go," said McGreevey.

Current Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who said he's running for governor, hasn't announced who he'll endorse for mayor.

FBI manhunt for Gregory Yetman, in connection with Jan. 6 Capitol assault, enters 2nd day in Helmetta, New Jersey

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 17:20:00 +0000

HELMETTA, N.Y. -- The FBI manhunt for Gregory Yetman, wanted in connection with the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol, entered its second day Thursday in Middlesex County, New Jersey.

Investigators said Yetman fled while being served a warrant. He allegedly hopped a fence and ran toward train tracks near a heavily wooded area.

Law enforcement spoke with neighbors and set up a command post at the Helmetta Community Center.

"It was a little crazy," neighbor Frank Sanford told CBS New York. "My wife called me... said, 'I don't know what's going on, SWAT vehicle and that vehicle and dogs.'"

The FBI released photos showing Yetman on Jan. 6 when hundreds stormed the Capitol. The New Jersey National Guard confirmed he served for about 12 years until March 2022.

Read More: FBI searching for Jan. 6 suspect Gregory Yetman in Middlesex County, New Jersey

Armed FBI agents in camouflage, members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force and search dogs were stationed in front of Yetman's home along Main Street for several hours Wednesday.

"It's an uneasy feeling. Our motto is, 'small town, big heart' here. It's like 'Cheers,' where everybody knows your name," said Helmetta Mayor Christopher Slavicek. "So you know, this hits home."

Helmetta is less than a square mile long with about 3,200 residents. The mayor added there is no threat to the community.

Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to call FBI Newark at 973-792-3000.

First Alert Weather: Morning rain chances, highs around 60

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:24:00 +0000

Forecast

CBS New York

Today: Chilly, cloudy start to the day. Nuisance showers/drizzle possible through early this afternoon; some clearing later this afternoon. Highs around 60 with 50s north and 70° south.

Tonight: Nice evening, but clouds return overnight.

Tomorrow: Chance of showers, but mainly south of the city. Cooler with highs in the 50s.

Looking ahead

CBS New York

Saturday (Veterans Day): Mostly sunny, chilly and breezy. Highs around 50 with wind chills in the 40s.

Sunday: Mostly sunny and even colder. Highs in the 40s.

Monday: Mostly to partly sunny and still chilly. Highs in the upper 40s.

Climate change causing homeowners insurance rates to skyrocket across Tri-State Area

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:16:47 +0000

NEW YORK -- New data shows climate change could make insurance dramatically more expensive than years prior for many homeowners in the Tri-State Area.

The research group First Street found nearly 90% of homes in New Jersey's Ocean County and nearly 60% of homes in Monmouth County are at risk of higher insurance premiums or losing their coverage. In Suffolk County, Long Island, 80% of properties could have trouble finding affordable insurance.

Read More: Homes in parts of the U.S. are "essentially uninsurable" due to rising climate change risks

CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook spoke with Public Adjuster Vince Perri to understand more.

"As we have more natural disasters and weather-related events, what we're seeing is insurance companies adding exclusions for particular things," said Perri. "If you suffer a wind event, your roof will only be covered under an actual cash value which means they're only going to cover the depreciated amount."

Perri says right now it's important to understand what's covered in your area.

"If you live in a home, you want to make sure you have a HO3 policy," he said. "Everything under the sun and moon is covered…You want to go straight into looking into what your deductible is. Make sure your policy limits make sense."

Read More: What insurance do you need to cover damage from extreme weather?

Perri and other experts say keeping up to date with your policy is key to avoid being blindsided.

This as the insurance industry continues to adapt to climate change that's resulting in unusual weather events.

FBI searching for Jan. 6 suspect Gregory Yetman in Middlesex County, New Jersey

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:12:00 +0000

Editor's note 11/10/23: Gregory Yetman turned himself in without incident and was taken into FBI custody on Nov. 10. Click here for more.

HELMETTA, N.J. -- A manhunt is underway in New Jersey for a man wanted in connection with the January 6th assault on the U.S. Capitol nearly three years ago.

With helicopters overhead and police on the ground, including the FBI, the search continues for Gregory Yetman.

Law enforcement zeroed in on a home on Main Street in the Middlesex County town of Helmetta, keeping the road closed for hours.

"It was scary and I'm still, you can see, I'm on edge," one neighbor said.

That man, who asked not to be identified, said the commotion began around 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

"I look outside, there's two guys here with assault rifles. Two over there. Two over there. They were all over the place. I walked outside a little bit. I asked the officer. He said go inside," the neighbor said. "We didn't really know what's going on and it's scary. What's really scary is when it's in your own backyard."

Police said Yetman fled when the FBI was attempting to execute a warrant, hopping a fence into a heavily wooded area that authorities combed through all day.

Spotswood Public Schools sheltered in place, although students were off Wednesday.

"It was scary at first to know the town was on lockdown and we didn't know why," resident Ginny Werner said.

Werner said she received an alert on her phone.

"No immediate threat to Spotswood residents," she said, reading.

"It's just very unusual for this town. It's a very safe town. Not much ever goes on, so it has been a little overwhelming," Ken Leisentritt said.

Watch Jenna DeAngelis' report

FBI searching for Jan. 6 suspect Gregory Yetman in Middlesex County, N.J. 02:33

A command post was set up at the Helmetta Community Center. Mayor Chris Slavicek said the FBI is determined to find Yetman.

"If you know something, see something, say something, and certainly air on the side of caution. Most importantly, the safety of our community is paramount and law enforcement agencies have reassured me that we are in a safe place right now," Slavicek said.

The New Jersey National Guard confirmed that Yetman served in the Army National Guard for about 12 years until March 2022.

Armed FBI agents in camo, members of the Joint Terrorism Task Force and search dogs remained parked in front of Yetman's home Wednesday night. FBI agents could be seen speaking with people inside Yetman's house.

Neighbor Frank Sanford had the FBI at his door in the morning, asking if he and his wife knew anything.

"It was a little crazy ... My wife called me ... said, 'I don't know what's going on, SWAT vehicle and this vehicle and dogs,'" he said.

Watch Kristie Keleshian's report

Search continues in NJ for man wanted in connection with Capitol riots

Former Princeton Care Center employees, residents say they're still owed money after nursing home's abrupt closure

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 04:36:00 +0000

PRINCETON, N.J. -- It's been two months since a Princeton nursing home abruptly closed with less than a day's notice, yet CBS New York investigative reporter Tim McNicholas found families are still searching for thousands of dollars deposited into their loved ones' accounts.

Those families aren't the only ones searching for their money. Nearly 70 employees are wondering if they'll ever be paid for their final three weeks of work.

We're uncovering a pattern of unpaid funds.

Susan Kalitan is trying to remember the good times, flipping through a scrapbook filled with photos of seniors whose days she helped plan as activity director at the Princeton Care Center.

"I adored every single one of them. It was my job to make them happy," she said.

But happiness was in short supply the day 72 seniors had to leave as the nursing home shut down with less than a day's notice due to a financial emergency.

Read more: Princeton lawmakers call for investigation after senior home's abrupt closure forces dozens to move out

Their children say the abrupt closure not only angered them but traumatized their parents, some suffering from dementia and other health issues.

Sixty-nine employees, some of whom helped sort through that chaos, have now filed claims with the state because they still haven't been paid for their final three weeks.

"Thank God I am on unemployment," Kalitan said. "How could you not have money? Every single one of those people were paying to live there. I don't know how you could not have the money."

The paychecks aren't the only problem.

Many residents had hundreds or in some cases thousands of dollars in personal needs allowances in their accounts for haircuts, clothing or other needs. Some of the funds came from relatives; much of it came directly from resident's social security checks.

"That is now frozen somewhere, which we don't know exactly where it is," said Sorat Tungkasiri, whose mom lived at the center.

He says his mom's account had $4,700 in it.

"I've tried to call Ezra, I've tried to email him, and still no response," Tungkasiri said.

Ezra is Ezra Bogner -- the nursing home administrator who employees and resident's relatives alike now say they can't get ahold of.

We drove to his home to ask about the funds, but we weren't able to reach him either.

"Do you think you're ever gonna get that back?" McNicholas asked Tungkasiri.

"I hope so because we really need it in order to support my mother," Tungkasiri said.

"Did you have any idea there were financial problems going on there?" McNicholas asked.

"Not at all," Tungkasiri said.

But state records show the health department visited the nursing home in June and an employee "stated that sometimes there were only two aides to care for 60 residents."

Bogner told a state surveyor there had been "cash flow issues" with the facility since March.

"Why didn't the state come in with some finances, some emergency finances to make sure residents could stay in place while there was a plan that could make sure that the health and safety of the residents were first?" New Jersey State Sen. Andrew Zwicker said.

Read more: New Jersey state officials say Princeton nursing home did not comply with law when it abruptly shut down

The health department says the nursing home told them a new owner would be taking over, but that deal fell through the day before the emergency shutdown.

Kalitan, flipping past pictures of Bogner, says both the state and Bogner should have done more to warn residents.

"He could have done this, I think, a long time ago," she said.

The state health department would not agree to an interview with us, but a spokesperson sent us the following statement:

"The evacuation was initiated and handled by the facility. The facility notified the department that it was invoking its emergency plan and evacuating residents. In the case of an activated emergency closure, the Department cannot force a facility to remain open, as that would be forcing residents to stay in an unsafe situation. The Department sent surveyors and mission critical staff to monitor the situation and remained onsite during the residents' transfers to their new, temporary homes until the last resident left the building to ensure their health and well-being.
"Please direct any specific questions about the evacuation to the landlord/owners.
"The Department's investigation into Princeton Care Center's compliance with the Department's long-term care facility rules is still open and, as such, the Department is unable to comment while its investigation is pending."

The nursing home told the state they're trying to return the funds, but the account is frozen in part because a medical supply company is suing over unpaid bills.

A lawyer for that company told McNicholas they want to return the funds, but the Princeton Care Center hasn't given them specifics about what money is owed to whom.

College student from New Jersey critically injured in Nashville shooting

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 01:35:00 +0000

NASHVILLE -- A college student from New Jersey was critically injured in a shooting in Nashville on Tuesday.

Metro-Nashville Police say 18-year-old Jillian Ludwig was walking on a track in a park when she was hit in the head by a bullet shot from public housing across the street.

She was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

Police say Shaquille Taylor had been shooting at a car.

Taylor faces charges of aggravated assault and evidence tampering.

Ludwig is a student at Belmont University and graduated from Wall High School in Monmouth County.

First Alert Weather: Brisk afternoon, with highs back in 50s

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 12:31:38 +0000

Forecast

CBS New York

Today: Colder morning... feels like 40s and 30s. Sun mixing with clouds and brisk this afternoon. Highs around 50 with wind chills in the 40s.

Tonight: Mostly cloudy with a chance of showers. Light wintry mix possible well north.

Tomorrow: Some nuisance showers/drizzle around. Highs near 60 with 50s north and 70° south.

Looking ahead

CBS New York

Friday: Chance of showers, but mainly south of the city. Highs in the 50s.

Saturday (Veterans Day): Chilly and breezy. Highs around 50 with wind chills in the 40s.

Sunday: Even colder. Highs in the 40s.

Political expert laments lackluster showing so far at the polls on Election Day

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 02:02:00 +0000

NEW YORK -- Voters will decide on a wide range of races on Tuesday, from the statehouse in New Jersey to the halls of New York City.

It's an off-year election that so far has failed to turn on voters, and that's a factor that could have an outsized influence in who wins and who loses, and who makes the decisions that affect our lives.

"You're talking about less than a thousand votes making up the difference in any of these elections. Less than 100, frankly, in some," political expert O'Brien Murray said.

Election 2023: Click here for the latest election results.

A handful of people were seen voting on West 84th Street in Manhattan, an example of the lackluster turnout so far as voters across the five boroughs pick candidates for 51 City Council seats.

In New York, as election results have shown, it's a daunting task to get people to vote.

"You're asking somebody to say take time away from your job, your family, your personal time, go to the polls and vote," Murray said.

Several of the City Council races are hotly contested, like the newly drawn so-called "Asian opportunity" seat in Brooklyn's District 43.

"I believe a lot of people going to come but how many, it's hard to say," Democrat Susan Zhuang said.

"I hope they will come out to to vote and I expect they will come out to vote today," Republican Ying Tan said.

Also running on the Conservative line, the only non-Asian in the race, Vito Labella.

Turnout could decide other key races, including in Brooklyn's 47th District, where two councilmen, Justin Brannan, a Democrat, is facing off against Ari Kagan, a Democrat who switched to the Republican Party. In the 19th District in Queens, Republican incumbent Vickie Paladino is in a rematch with Democrat Tony Avella.

As of late Tuesday morning, turnout has been nothing to write home to mom about, as only 86,000 people took advantage of early voting, an anemic 2% of the 4.6 million registered voters in New York City.

Turnout will also a big factor in Suffolk County, where Democratic County Executive Steve Bellone is term limited and Republicans are hoping to capture the seat. A Republican victory could also help the party keep control of Congress, because a Republican win could help the freshmen Long Island congressmen elected last year to fend off a strong challenges from Democrats.

Vying to replace Bellone is Brookhaven Town Supervisor Edward Romaine, a Republican, and former federal and state prosecutor and private investment manager David Calone, a Democrat.

"Accountability. We lack that in county government," Romaine said Monday.

"As a prosecutor and a businessman, I bring a different skill set," Calone said.

There are many other races, including for district attorney in the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens. In Yonkers, Mayor Mike Spano is hoping to prevail and in New Jersey, candidates are vying for state Senate and General Assembly seats.

And let's not forget all the judicial races, the people who will decide who goes to jail or remains on the streets.

National parks will offer free admission Saturday for Veterans Day

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:41:08 +0000

NEW YORK -- All United States national parks will offer free admission Saturday in honor of Veterans Day.

There are more than 400 national parks across the country, including parks in our area like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Although the parks service will waive admission, visitors will have to pay for camping, boat launches and special tours.

For more information on national parks in New York, click here.

2 found dead in parking lot in Linden, N.J.

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 20:22:00 +0000

LINDEN, N.J. - Two people were found dead in a hotel parking lot in Linden Tuesday.

Video from the scene shows police activity in the parking lot of the hotel at 1920 East Linden Avenue.

A white van surrounded by police tape could be seen with its doors open in the parking lot.

Authorities said a man and a woman were found dead in the van.

Police said they believe this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public.

Police: School bus with no children on board hits home in Howell Township, N.J.

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 17:44:18 +0000

HOWELL, N.J. -- There was a wild scene Tuesday morning at a home in Monmouth County after a school bus hit a house.

It happened on Asbury Road in Howell Township. Police said it appears the driver fell asleep and struck a telephone pole and then a mailbox before going off the road, hitting a tree and then the house.

Fortunately, no children where on the bus.

A woman and two young children were in the house, but were hot hurt, police said.

Inspectors were checking the house to see if it's structurally safe.

First Alert Weather: Mostly sunny, mild afternoon with highs approaching 70

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:19:54 +0000

Forecast

CBS New York

Today (Election Day): Decreasing clouds; brighter and milder this afternoon. Highs in the 60s... 70° possible S&W.

Tonight: Clear and much colder. Wind chills falling into the 30s.

Tomorrow: Sun mixing with clouds and brisk. Highs in the low 50s.

Looking Ahead

CBS New York

Thursday: Showers, especially in the morning. Highs in the 50s.

Friday: Chance of showers. Highs in the 50s.

Saturday (Veterans Day): Chilly and breezy. Highs in the 50s with wind chills in the 40s.

Morris Habitat for Humanity building a home for grateful veteran Mylcaryz Moquete: "This is truly a dream manifested"

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:06:21 +0000

PERTH AMBOY, N.J. - Monday was a day dedicated to recognizing the selfless sacrifice of our veterans and offering thanks in the form of home ownership in Perth Amboy, N.J.

CBS New York's Vanessa Murdock spoke with the grateful first-time homeowner and the organization who helped turn her dream into reality.

"I've always dreamt, am I ever going to own a home?" U.S. Army veter Mylcaryz Moquete said.

The foundation has been poured and first floor support walls are up. Next year, Moquete and her family will step inside their brand new home in Perth Amboy.

"It has taken great sacrifice, love, community to get to where my family and I are," Moquete said.

Moquete is a first generation American born to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic. Out of high school she joined the Army and served as a medic for nine years.

The mother of three says her kids are her world.

"I imagine my family gathering just as we did with my grandmother. I want to give thanks to her and my mom who exemplified what it meant to create a home," Moquete said.

The home was made possible by Morris Habitat for Humanity, which kicked off Veterans Build Week Monday.

"We are here to honor our veterans in a meaningful way," Morris Habitat for Humanity CEO Liz DeCoursey said.

DeCoursey said the goal is to build more than homes: Hope, opportunity and a brighter future for veterans who face housing cost burdens.

"Nearly four million veterans pay at least 30% of their income to rent," DeCoursey said. "More 1.5 million pay at least 50%. Fifty percent of their income goes to rent."

Starting Wednesday, the family will get to work, building their own home. They have to put in about 400 hours of sweat equity, and help Morris Habitat transform the empty shell into a three bedroom, two bath house with a back yard – the feature Moquete says she most excited about.

:"We love barbecuing. We love having family over," she said.

The housewarming celebration is already in the works…

"I have it planned," Hilto Delossantos said. "It's a surprise."

"We give you our deepest thanks. This is truly a dream manifested," Moquete said.

Morris Habitat for Humanity shares another home slated for a Veteran will be built in Perth Amboy and it is not yet spoken for. You can find out more if you or someone you know might be interested in applying.

Republicans in New Jersey optimistic they can flip the Senate or Assembly, or even both

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 22:56:17 +0000

CEDAR GROVE, N.J. -- Voters in New Jersey will go to the polls on Tuesday. With every seat in the Legislature up for grabs, Republicans are hoping to flip the state red.

The campaign signs are out, endorsing candidates and issues. Republicans are attacking Democrats on culture war issues like parental rights and offshore wind projects in hopes of flipping either the Assembly or the Senate, or both.

"I think the issues are on our side. I think the Democrats did go too far left in New Jersey. People have said, 'We don't want to be California,'" Republican Sen. Holly Schepisi said.

Democrats control the state Senate by 10 seats and the general Assembly by 12, but Republicans have been chipping away at that lead for years now. The surprisingly narrow victory by Gov. Phil Murphy in 2021 is yet another reason Republicans have to feel confident.

But Democrats are firing back on issues like abortion.

"I think our message will resonate. We're the vanguard when it comes to reproductive freedom, as it relates to reasonable gun control. Regarding the economic conditions in New Jersey, frankly, they have never been better," Assemblyman John McKeon said.

Those culture war issues are part of the nationwide discussion, but Dr. Ashley Koning with the Eagleton Center for Public Interest Polling at Rutgers University said in New Jersey, voters consistently go back to the same issue.

"Taxes. It's always about taxes, especially property taxes. So whether or not that component in affordability and cost of living are going to play a bigger role than these culture wars issues, time is going to tell," Koning said.

Voters that spoke to CBS New York agree that kitchen table issues hit closer to home.

"The property taxes, the rent goes up. It's so expensive. You don't understand why it has to go up that high," said Barbara Earl of Irvington.

It has been about two decades since Republicans controlled the Senate or Assembly in New Jersey. Experts say it's a longshot for that to change this year, but, they added, it's not impossible.

New poll shows Donald Trump ahead of Joe Biden in several battleground states

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 22:36:31 +0000

NEW YORK -- A new presidential poll has President Joe Biden trailing Donald Trump in key battleground states.

Some pundits think the results may have played a roll in Trump's aggressive testimony Monday during his Manhattan fraud trial.

It was either the best of times, if you are Trump, or the worst of times if you are Biden. Not only was a new 2024 presidential matchup poll bad news for the president, it prompted a very public questioning of his candidacy by none other than top Democratic strategist David Axelrod, the very man who put Barack Obama and his vice presidential running mate, Biden, into the White House.

Axelrod posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that Biden would be the Democratic nominee if he runs, but, "What he needs to decide is whether that is wise; whether it's in HIS best interest or the country's."

Only @JoeBiden can make this decision. If he continues to run, he will be the nominee of the Democratic Party. What he needs to decide is whether that is wise; whether it's in HIS best interest or the country's?
— David Axelrod (@davidaxelrod) November 5, 2023

"I wish he had not said that. I think it's more hurtful than helpful," said Basil Smikle, a professor at Hunter College.

This as political experts around the country -- Democrats and Republicans -- are digesting a New York Times-Siena poll that has Trump beating Biden is five of six key battleground states.

Trump was ahead of Biden by a range of 4 to 10 points in Nevada, Arizona, Georgia, Michigan and Pennsylvania. Only Pennsylvania, where Trump led by 4, was within the margin of error of 4.4 to 4.8. Only Wisconsin was in the Biden win column, but he was squeaking out a 2-point victory.

The poll also showed Biden losing support among Black, Hispanic and young voters.

But campaign expert O'Brien Murray said it's too early to write Biden off.

"Never count him out with the expectation game. Every single time that the Republicans have come after him, he always exceeds those expectations," Murray said.

The good news could have added a shot of adrenalin to Trump's aggressive court testimony.

"I imagine his testimony today in court is going to play into a larger strategy of talking to his voters about how the government, how the legal system is coming after him," Smikle said.

The election is a year away and a lot can happen. Trump still faces several more trials and President Biden has domestic and international problems to deal with.

According to the poll, voters have unfavorable views of both Biden and Trump.

Biden to announce $16 billion for Amtrak rail improvements in Northeast Corridor

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:28:49 +0000

NEW YORK -- The federal government plans to pump more than $16 billion into improving Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, the nation's busiest rail line.

President Joe Biden is expected to announce the funding at an event in Delaware on Monday. The funding will go into more than two dozen projects along the Northeast Corridor – the system that connects cities including Washington, New York and Boston.

The announcement will be delivered as part of an event in New Castle, Delaware, at Amtrak Bear Maintenance Shops, an 85-acre campus where trains are maintained and repaired. Delaware Gov. John Carney and Sens. Chris Coons and Tom Carper will attend the event.

The Biden administration said it selected projects including aging bridges and tunnels in need of replacement and said the $16.4 billion includes funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Related story: Construction officially begins on long-delayed Gateway Hudson River Tunnel project

The funding "will upgrade aging infrastructure on the nation's most heavily traveled rail corridor to increase train speeds, reduce passenger delays, and create good-paying union jobs," said a White House official.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the projects are "critical" and "represent some of the most frequent causes of problems and disruptions and delays."

The largest slice of funding will go to the underwater train tunnels connecting New York and New Jersey. The Gateway Hudson River Tunnel – which the Amtrak CEO has said would cause "meltdown" if it failed – is more than a century old and is corroding after flooding during Superstorm Sandy more than a decade ago. The $3.8 billion grant follows another federal award of nearly $7 billion this summer.

Related story: Second Avenue subway expansion into East Harlem gets $3.4 billion kick-start from Biden administration

The funding also includes $4.7 billion toward replacing a Civil War-era tunnel near Baltimore. The Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel is flooding and sinking and frequently slows trains into the city to a crawl, causing delays up and down the line. Completion of the new tunnel is expected in 2033.

Other projects to be funded include replacing a 100-year-old bridge in Maryland and a 116-year-old bridge in Connecticut.

"Americans need and deserve world-class rail, which is the president's vision," Buttigieg told reporters. "But for decades now, we have underinvested as a country in passenger rail in the United States."

Buttigieg was in Manhattan over the weekend touting $3.4 billion in funding to kick-start the Second Avenue subway expansion into East Harlem.

First Alert Weather: Chilly temps return with highs in mid 50s

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 12:42:00 +0000

Forecast

CBS New York

Today: Colder start to the day... 40s and 30s. Partly sunny and chilly this afternoon. Highs in the 50s.

Tonight: Some late showers.

Tomorrow: Early shower, breezy and milder. Highs in the 60s.... 70° possible S&W.

Looking Ahead

CBS New York

Wednesday: Much colder with a late chance of showers. Highs in the 50s.

Thursday: Showers, especially in the morning. Highs in the 50s.

Friday: Chance of showers. Highs in the 50s.

Pride flag outside New Jersey cafe torn down again, business owner says

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:50:00 +0000

HOBOKEN, N.J. -- A New Jersey cafe owner says he's being targeted because of a Pride flag outside of his business.

The owner of Uncle Milton's Cafe on Jefferson Street in Hoboken shared video that shows the Pride flag wrapped around the cafe's front door handles after apparently being ripped down.

He says this comes after a Pride flag there was ripped down and burned just a few weeks ago.

Hoboken's mayor showed his support for the cafe Sunday after the flag was put back up.

He says police are investigating.

79-year-old woman dies in New Jersey house fire

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:10:00 +0000

WYCKOFF, N.J. -- Police say a woman was killed in a house fire in Bergen County on Sunday.

She was lovingly known by her niece as Aunt Gina. Seventy-nine-year-old Virginia D'Amilio Ingenito lived in the Meer Avenue home in Wyckoff with her son and two grandsons.

Calls came in at around noon Sunday about heavy flames and smoke coming from the back of the house. Firefighters found Ingenito unresponsive. She was rushed to a nearby hospital where she died.

"To be here, it's like... I can't put it into words. It's so tragic," niece Agnes Mariella-Zimmer said.

Her niece shares her aunt suffered from dementia and may have been cooking at the time. She was home alone.

At least 150 firefighters across Wyckoff and several neighboring towns responded. Two suffered minor injuries.

"This did go to a third alarm due to the size of the house and the volume of fire that crews were met with," Wyckoff Assistant Fire Chief Joseph Alvarez said.

Flames spread up through the first and second floors and traveled up to the attic. The doors and windows are now being boarded up. They were busted through, along with the roof, to prevent gas build-up inside.

"It helps the firefighters to locate down victims, and it also helps them to find the fire quicker," Alvarez explained.

D'Amilio Ingenito immigrated to the United States in the late '50s and worked as a hairstylist. She owned a hair salon in Totowa she named after her son Charlie.

"She worked very hard for her son to put him through college and he became a lawyer," Mariella-Zimmer said. "He was loved by everyone."

If there's one thing her niece is taking away from this, she says, "Love your mother, love your parents because that's what you take with you."

Due to the magnitude of the fire, the Bergen County prosecutor's office is stepping in to investigate its exact cause.

First Alert Forecast: Mild with a mix of sun and clouds Sunday

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 14:41:23 +0000

Things are looking good on this New York City Marathon Sunday! We'll have a blend of sun and clouds today with temps very similar to yesterday, if not a couple degrees milder.

After a chilly start, highs will top out in the low 60s this afternoon. With the end of daylight saving time, sunset will be at 4:48 p.m. today.

CBS New York

Tonight will be mostly clear to partly cloudy with lows in the 40s around NYC and 30s in the suburbs. As far as our next rain chances, they're fairly minimal until late in the week.

CBS New York

Monday will be another day of partly sunny skies, although it will be cooler. Highs will be in the 50s.

Late Monday night (after midnight) and into early Tuesday morning (before sunrise), there's about a 20% chance of a passing shower, especially north of the city.

CBS New York

Tuesday itself looks dry once we get past sunrise. With the passage of a warm front, temps will climb back into the 60s for many.

Rain chances come up a bit late in the week, but it's not looking as impressive as 24 hours ago. We'll keep an eye on it.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

First Alert Weather: CBS2's 11/5 Sunday morning forecast

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 04:00:00 +0000

After eight straight weekends of rain on at least one day, it appears that we will finally break the streak this weekend. This comes at the perfect time for the New York City Marathon.

CBS New York

Clouds filled up the sky for most of Saturday, but milder temps also returned, with highs reaching into the lower 60s.

CBS New York

As we Fall Back early Sunday, skies will become partly cloudy for most. A stray shower is possible well north of the city. A low of 46 is expected in the city, while many of the suburbs will dip into the upper 30s.

CBS New York

Marathon Sunday looks really good for all the runners. Highs will once again top out in the lower 60s with a mix of sun and clouds. No rain is anticipated.

CBS New York

This weather is excellent for leaf peeping. While most of our northwestern and western suburbs are already past their peak viewing times, the city, Long Island, along with central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore are peaking now.

New Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons go for a spin at annual Balloonfest

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 03:43:00 +0000

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Preparations began Saturday for the 97th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

A test flight was held for the new balloons joining the parade in the parking lot at the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford.

There are seven new balloons in this year's lineup, including Beagle Scout Snoopy, Monkey D. Luffy from "One Piece," Po from "Kung Fu Panda" and a new version of the Pillsbury Doughboy.

Related story: Cher, Brandy, Jon Batiste & more set to perform at 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

"We've got 16 giant balloons. We've 33 midsize heritage balloons. We have 26 floats. We have a variety of performances, 12 marching bands. It's going to be a fantastic parade this year," said Will Coss, executive producer of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

In addition to the new balloons being put to the test, handlers also got a chance to see what it's like to maneuver the big balloons ahead of Thanksgiving.

First Alert Forecast: Finally, a dry weekend! Milder temps return, daylight saving starts tonight

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 13:49:59 +0000

After eight straight weekends of rain on at least one day, it appears that we will finally break the streak this weekend!

It comes at the perfect time for the New York City Marathon.

CBS New York

Saturday, more clouds will be in place than the last several days, but the sun will make an appearance from time to time.

Milder temps will also return, with highs reaching into the lower 60s.

CBS New York

As we fall back tonight, skies become partly cloudy for most. A stray shower is possible well north of the city.

A low of 46 is expected in the city, while many of the suburbs will dip into the upper 30s.

CBS New York

Marathon Sunday looks really good for all the runners.

Highs will once again top out in the lower 60s with a mix of sun and clouds. No rain is anticipated.

NYC Marathon 2023 Guide: Start time, schedule and more details for Sunday's race

Construction officially begins on long-delayed Gateway Hudson River Tunnel Project

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 23:53:00 +0000

NEW YORK -- Friday, construction kicked off on the first part of the project to build two new train tunnels underneath the Hudson River.

This project has been talked about for 30 years, and with work finally set to begin, state and federal leaders are celebrating what they call the light at the end of a very long tunnel.

"These are hard dollars that translate into hard hats," Sen. Chuck Schumer said.

Having support for New York among Washington leadership helped secure a total of $11 billion in federal financing, 70% of the money needed to connect Secaucus, New Jersey, to Penn Station through a brand new gateway.

"This is the largest single investment in infrastructure. and what better place than the great city of New York, the great state of New York, to prove that when we do things together, we can get great things done," said Mitch Landrieu, senior advisor to President Joe Biden.

The project is expected to provide 72,000 union jobs and an economic impact of $19 billion once all four tracks are up and running, transporting 200,000 people daily.

Related story: Second Avenue subway expansion into East Harlem gets $3.4 billion kick-start from Biden administration

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg compares Gateway to the Hoover Dam and Golden Gate Bridge.

"There are some infrastructure projects so large, so complex that they defy traditional funding structures, and so significant that they become iconic parts of the American landscape," Buttigieg said.

The need to repair and replace the existing century-old tunnel became apparent after Superstorm Sandy, when saltwater sped up the corrosion already underway.

The federal investment now brings each state's contribution to construction costs down from 25% to 15%.

"I have already mentally spent that extra money. Don't worry about it. But let me give you a hint -- it's got shovels and hard hats as well," Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

Amtrak has already spent more than $200 million to fortify the tunnel.

"We've been able to keep those tunnels operational, and it's our hope that we'll be able to do that until the new tunnels are completed," Amtrak Chairman Tony Coscia said.

Riders can expect to take their first trip through the tunnel in 2035.

As part of the Gateway Project, a new tunnel will be built first and then the existing tunnel will be closed and reconstructed.

NJ janitor allegedly contaminated food, committed lewd acts at elementary school: prosecutor

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 23:23:00 +0000

UPPER DEERFIELD, N.J. (CBS) -- A Cumberland County man was arrested for allegedly contaminating food and committing lewd acts at Elizabeth Moore School in Upper Deerfield Township, the county prosecutor's office announced Friday.

Giovanni Impellizzeri, 25, was arrested by New Jersey State Police on Halloween, the Cumberland County prosecutor said.

Impellizzeri is accused of tampering with cafeteria food in the Upper Deerfield Township school with bleach and bodily fluids. He also allegedly performed "sexual acts with inanimate objects" at the school and posted videos of them on social media, according to a news release.

All morning, New Jersey State Police were posted outside the school as parents like Shatora Sheikh came demanding answers following the arrest of Impellizzerri.

"I wanted to throw up," Sheikh said."I was sick to my stomach literally not knowing if my kids, my daughter, particularly that goes to that school, had eaten anything, touched anything."

She's particularly upset because she says the school district didn't provide details on the allegations.

Sheikh showed CBS News Philadelphia an email Upper Deerfield Schools sent to parents Wednesday afternoon which only said there were "alleged inappropriate online postings made by an employee of our district."

She didn't learn the specific accusations until a friend shared them with her Thursday night.

"I believe us as parents would've been like happier if they would've told us the situation, 'This is what happened. We're doing A through Z,' but nobody told us anything," Sheikh said.

Disturbing allegations against a custodian at a Cumberland County School. The urgent questions parents have about their kids’ health today @CBSPhiladelphia. pic.twitter.com/N7LiSNf088
— Brandon Goldner (@GoldnerTV) November 3, 2023

The Cumberland County prosecutor said Impellizzeri was hired in September 2019 by the Upper Deerfield Township School District. He allegedly committed these actions while working as a custodian at the school.

Investigators are looking into exactly when the alleged acts by Impellizzeri happened.

Impellizzeri is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child.

The school district is cooperating with the investigation, according to the Cumberland County prosecutor.

Parent Natalie Schmidt said she's worried about her child's health.

"I had no idea it was going to be to this extent. None," she said. "I am like freaking out right now. I have to take my kid and get him a whole workup done medically because I don't know what he has ingested."

CBS News Philadelphia reached out to the Upper Deerfield Township School District. The superintendent's secretary said a statement would be released Friday. We are still awaiting comment.

The Cumberland County Health Department said it's working with the school to ensure food prep areas, serving utensils and all surfaces have been properly sanitized and any tampered products have been discarded.

It says they're also awaiting test results from Impellizzeri to determine if he has any infectious diseases.

The health department said it's been inundated with calls from parents. It hopes to have additional guidance out to parents by Monday.

CBS News Philadelphia asked the public defender's office, which is currently representing Impellizzerri, for a comment on the case. We'll let you know once we hear from them.

New Jersey to expand vaccine eligibility groups to essential workers, including pre-K to 12 educators

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 12:54:28 +0000

New Jersey has expanded its COVID-19 vaccine eligibility groups to include teachers, transportation workers and others, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday.Beginning March 15, educators and school support staff for pre-K to grade 12, child care workers, transportation workers and additional public safety workers can receive the vaccine.The announcement comes days after the FDA authorized emergency use of the Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine.There are currently three vaccines approved for use in the United States. Gov. Murphy is expected to provide more details during his briefing Monday afternoon.

Large NJ arenas and stadiums reopen with capacity limits

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 10:36:04 +0000

Monday is a big day for area sports fans as they'll finally be allowed back in the stands at some of New Jersey's largest arenas and stadiums.Large sports and entertainment venues in the Garden State will begin to reopen to the public Monday. Gov. Phil Murphy announced the news back on Feb. 22.Venues with a fixed-seating capacity of over 5,000 people can open at 10% capacity for indoor sites and at 15% capacity for outdoor settings.The relaxed COVID-19 restrictions would apply to places like MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and Giants, and the Prudential Center, where the New Jersey Devils play.Unlike neighboring New York, Murphy said negative COVID-19 PCR tests will not be required before entry.The governor also announced, effective immediately, that indoor and outdoor collegiate sports practices and competitions may allow two parents or guardians per participating athlete as spectators. However, the number of spectators cannot exceed 35% of an indoor room’s capacity and social distancing must be maintained outdoors, Murphy said.

What can, can't you do with cannabis in NJ now?

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 02:47:26 +0000

New Jersey’s recreational marijuana market is now voter approved and in effect under legislation signed last week by Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy. New Jersey residents voted by a 2-to-1 margin in November to join 14 other states and the District of Columbia with legal marijuana for recreational use. Only those 21 and older can legally possess and use the drug. But there are a lot of ins and outs to consider. You can't buy marijuana anywhere just yet, but it's no longer a violation of state law to have 6 ounces of less or marijuana or about three-fifths of an ounce of hashish.

Capitals score 3 in first 5:06, beat Devils 5-2

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 21:23:47 +0000

Garnet Hathaway and Daniel Sprong scored in the opening 5:06, the streaking Washington Capitals built a big lead and held off the slumping New Jersey Devils 5-2 on Saturday.Lars Eller added the third goal in the big first period and Jabub Vrana gave the Capitals breathing room with a third-period breakaway tally. Rookie Vitek Vanecek had 22 saves in his ninth win.Nic Dowd added an empty-net goal with less than a minute to play for Washington, 5-1-1 in its last seven after losing four straight.Nico Hischier and Pavel Zacha each scored for the second consecutive game for New Jersey, which has lost four of five. Mackenzie Blackwood had 19 saves as the Devils opened a five-game homestand.The Capitals, who rallied from a two-goal deficit to beat New Jersey last Sunday, learned from that game and started fast.Hathaway opened the scoring at 3:36, depositing a nice cross-ice pass by defenseman Justin Schultz into a wide-open net.Sprong, who only got a chance to play because Evgeny Kuznetsov was out with an upper-body injury, deflected a point shot by Brenden Dillion past Blackwood at 5:06.Eller scored in his second straight game, capping a 3-on-1 break. Conor Sheary used Alex Ovechkin as a decoy on the rush to set up the Dane's fourth goal of the season.Hischier, who left the ice with 4:23 to play after being hit in the shield by a deflected power-play shot, got New Jersey back in the game in the final minutes of the first period, scoring from in close.Zacha extended his scoring streak to nine games with a goal from between the circles in the second period with Vanecek playing without his stick.Vanecek, playing in his 16th game, made at least three good saves early in the third period to keep Washington ahead. Vrana iced the game by beating Blackwood between the pads on his breakaway.

Gas prices up in NJ, around nation amid refinery outages

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 20:59:45 +0000

Gas prices are still on the increase in New Jersey and around the nation amid longer-than-expected refinery outages on the Gulf Coast following a winter storm. AAA Mid-Atlantic says the average price of a gallon of regular gas in New Jersey on Friday was $2.81, up eight cents from a week ago. Drivers were paying an average of $2.52 a gallon a year ago at this time. The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was $2.69, up nine cents from last week. Drivers were paying an average of $2.47 a gallon a year ago at this time.

NJ lawmakers, AG decry sex offender's reinstated chiropractor license

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 01:52:28 +0000

New Jersey lawmakers are outraged after a man who is a convicted sex offender in the state of Florida had his license to practice as a chiropractor in the Garden State reinstated. Bryan Bajakian, who practiced out of Mahwah, had his license reinstated recently by the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Bajakian is a registered sex offender in both New Jersey and Florida, having spent two stints in jail for multiple counts of luring or enticing a child as well as unlawful possession of a firearm. He was released from a New Jersey correctional facility on Feb. 9, 2017 and is on lifetime parole and is not allowed to to see patients under the age of 18 unsupervised.New Jersey's Attorney General Gurbir Grewal was disappointed by the decision."The Attorney General's Office is committed to rooting out sexual misconduct in all its forms, and has continuously called on the state’s professional licensing boards to take seriously their obligation to protect members of the public from sexual misconduct by licensees," an office of the attorney general spokesperson told PIX11 News in a statement. "In light of the egregious facts of this case, we are disappointed that the Board of Chiropractic Examiners has allowed Bryan Bajakian to resume practice, and are reviewing the board’s decision."The attorney general previously tried to file a motion to deny the license but had it rejected by the board. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy was questioned about the issue during his Friday coronavirus briefing and agreed with Grewal.“The attorney general is completely right on this," Murphy said. "It is unacceptable and the folks who voted to reinstate this guy should hear this loud and clear. We will be looking very carefully and very soon at the makeup of that board."New Jersey State Senate President Steve Sweeney and Sen. Loretta Weinberg, two of the state's most powerful Democrat legislators, introduced a bill to prohibit registered sex offenders from working as chiropractors in New Jersey in response to the board's decision. The bill would also remove the current board members; Sweeney and Weinberg said the board is dominated by chiropractors and they'd like to reconstitute it to include more public representation.“This board has clearly lost sight of its responsibility to protect the health and safety of the people of New Jersey,” said Sen. Sweeney. “Giving a convicted sex offender the sanctioned permission to return to the practice is irresponsible and illogical. Bryan Bajakian is a predator who should be denied the opportunity to threaten anyone again.”“The idea that the state board representing practicing chiropractors could vote unanimously to reinstate the license of a convicted sex offender is a horrific and dangerous move that defies all logic, and is a slap in the face to people everywhere who have faced the trauma of sexual misconduct,” added Sen. Weinberg. “By reinstating the chiropractic license of Bryan Bajakian, the board has placed others, including the most vulnerable, in harm’s way.”Bajakian's lawyer, Douglas Anton, has yet to respond to PIX11 News' request for comment but posted to Instagram on Thursday regarding the case, calling the decision to reinstate Bajakian "a great day for truth and justice to prevail. So proud of the 'LAW' today."There's bipartisan agreement that Bajakian should not have been reinstated in Trenton, as Sen. Joe Vitale, chairman of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee and Sen. Robert Singer, the ranking Republican member of the committee, issued a joint statement condemning Bajakian's reinstatement.“This is a decision that defies common sense and ignores the safety of the public the board is responsible for protecting," they said. "Anyone who thinks it’s a good idea to reinstate the license of a convicted sex offender who preyed on children can’t be trusted to exercise their oversight responsibilities, or to even to heed their own mission statement directing the board to ‘protect the health, safety and welfare of the people of New Jersey. Bryan Bajakian is a predator who should not be placed in a position of trust with patients in healthcare settings that make them vulnerable, especially children."Vitale and Singer said restructuring the board, as Sweeney and Weinberg's bill would do, is under consideration.

Latest coronavirus updates in New Jersey: Friday, February 26, 2021

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 11:10:24 +0000

Below you will find the most up-to-date information on coronavirus news impacting New Jersey. You can find additional resources and coverage on our coronavirus page.6 a.m.The Rahway Licensing Center and the West Deptford Regional Licensing Center are closed due to a single employee testing positive for COVID-19 at each location, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission says. Rahway will be closed until Thursday, March 11, while West Deptford will be closed until Friday, March 12.Latest official numbers:As of Thursday, there have been 692,931 confirmed cases in the state since March, and there have been 20,816 lab-confirmed coronavirus deaths, according to the state Health Department.To find the nearest free COVID-19 testing location, click here.Tips to protect yourself and others amid coronavirus outbreaks.Call New Jersey's coronavirus hotline at 1-800-222-1222. You can also click here for additional information

Zacha scores 1:17 into OT in Devils 4-3 win over Sabres

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 03:06:20 +0000

Pavel Zacha converted Jesper Bratt’s drop pass to score 1:17 into overtime and the New Jersey Devils rallied from a pair of one-goal deficits to beat the Buffalo Sabres 4-3. The Devils snapped a three-game skid by beating an injury-depleted Sabres opponent. Buffalo opened minus captain Jack Eichel, who was scratched after testing a lower-body injury during the pregame skate. And the Sabres then lost starting goalie Linus Ullmark, who was sidelined after stopping all 15 shots he faced in the first period. Buffalo’s Sam Reinhart forced overtime by tipping in Taylor Hall’s centering pass for a power-play goal with 4:30 remaining.

What is New Jersey's Cannabis Regulatory Commission?

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 21:25:34 +0000

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy completed his appointments to the state's new Cannabis Regulatory Commission Thursday. The five-person commission will have a big say in the way New Jersey rolls out legalization of recreational marijuana.What is the Cannabis Regulatory Commission?The CRC will, according to the state, regulate New Jersey's medical cannabis marketplace and give oversight for the soon-to-be-established adult-use recreational cannabis marketplace. Medicinal marijuana has been legal in the Garden State since 2010. Gov. Murphy established the CRC in 2019 and started making appointments once the state voted to legalize recreational marijuana in November of 2020.In a statement Thursday, Murphy said that the commission will "act to ensure that the marketplace for adult-use recreational cannabis is equitable, fair, and inclusive of all communities.”Who appoints members of the CRC?When Gov. Murphy signed the legislation creating the commission, the plan was for the CRC to consist of five members appointed by the governor, with one each upon the recommendation of Senate President Steve Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin. The initial three appointments — made solely by the Gov. Murphy — are direct appointments serving terms of three, four, and five years and subsequently are subject to advice and consent.Who runs the Cannabis Regulatory Commission? Dianna Houenou was named commissioner back in November. Houenou, a Trenton resident, is a cannabis legalization advocate who also served as a senior policy adviser and associate counsel to Gov. Murphy. Prior to that, she worked as a policy council with the New Jersey chapter of the ACLU, where she "developed legislative strategies for ACLU-NJ advocacy campaigns and led the organization’s coalitions advocating for marijuana legalization and Newark police reform."Houenou was one of Gov. Murphy's three direct appointments. Jeff Brown was named executive director of the commission in November. A Mercer County native, Brown is the assistant commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health, overseeing the department's medical marijuana division. Prior to working for the state, Brown worked extensively on the passage and implementation of the Affordable Care Act, particularly the creation of health insurance exchanges and the expansion of Medicaid.Who else is on the Cannabis Regulatory Commission?The other four members were rounded out with appointments made Thursday by Gov. Murphy. Krista Nash was named to the commission in November upon the recommendation of Speaker Coughlin. Nash is a long-time social justice advocate. She currently serves as Program Director of the PROMISE program at Volunteers of America Delaware Valley and previously served as a mentor at Oaks Integrate Care and Transitions for Youth. Additionally she serves on the Camden County Addiction Awareness Task Force.On Thursday, Gov. Murphy appointed Maria Del Cid and William Wallace to the CRC and appointed Sam Delgado as a member on the recommendation of Senate President Sweeney. Del Cid currently serves as the director of oolicy and legislative services at the New Jersey Department of Health, where she serves as a liaison with the governor’s office and to the legislature. Wallace is the director of the professional division of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) International Union Local 342, where he also serves on the executive board. Wallace previously worked as a Pharmacist-In-Charge at several pharmacies across the state of New Jersey. Delgado most recently served as vice president of external affairs for Verizon, a position from which he retired in 2019. Before retiring, Mr. Delgado was responsible for managing the allocation of grants, supporting Verizon’s philanthropic endeavors, and furthering Verizon’s environmental commitments. When will adult-use recreational marijuana be for sale in New JerseyMurphy said Monday that while an agreement on legislation officially legalizing recreational weed has been agreed upon and signed into New Jersey State Law, it will take up to six months to establish the market. The Democrat-led Assembly and Senate passed the last-minute measure Monday to ease penalties on underage possession of both alcohol and marijuana as a way to secure Murphy’s signature on two bills already on his desk that set up the new marketplace and decriminalize marijuana for those 21 and older.Murphy said he expects the marketplace to take about 6 to 9 months to get up and running.“It’s going to take some number of months,” he said.

Agency permanently bans fracking near Delaware River

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 20:22:56 +0000

A regulatory agency that’s responsible for the water supply of more than 13 million people in four Northeastern states voted Thursday to permanently ban natural gas drilling and fracking near a crucial waterway, asserting that gas development poses an unacceptable threat.The Delaware River Basin Commission cited “significant immediate and long-term risks” from gas extraction, asserting that drillers have “adversely impacted surface-water and groundwater resources, including sources of drinking water, and have harmed aquatic life in some regions.”The ban applies to two counties in Pennsylvania’s northeastern tip that are part of the nation’s largest gas field, the Marcellus Shale. Nearly 13,000 wells have been drilled elsewhere in the vast Marcellus formation, turning Pennsylvania into the nation’s No. 2 gas-producing state.Republican state lawmakers in Pennsylvania as well as a landowners group have filed lawsuits challenging the commission’s right to regulate gas development in the watershed. The commission has representatives from Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware and the federal government.Thursday's vote was 4-0, with the federal government abstaining.Business and industry groups condemned the ban, which made permanent a moratorium on drilling and fracking in the Delaware watershed that had been in place for more than a decade.“There is no support to any claim that drilling results in widespread impacts to drinking water, rivers or groundwater,” said Gene Barr, chief executive of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. “This was a political decision uninformed by science.”Farmers and other landowners who had once leased their land to drilling companies have bitterly opposed the moratorium.Drilling opponents, meanwhile, have long contended that large-scale gas exploration could not be done safely so close to crucial waterways and renowned fisheries. The Delaware and its tributaries supply drinking water to Philadelphia and half the population of New York City.“This is a watershed moment for protecting one of America’s most iconic watersheds,” said PennEnvironment Executive Director David Masur. “Fracking shouldn’t be allowed anywhere, much less near an iconic natural waterway like the Delaware River.”Conservation officials once estimated that gas companies had more than 300 square miles of watershed land under lease. The drillers have long since pulled up stakes amid the longstanding moratorium.The water agency had imposed what it said was a temporary moratorium on gas development in 2010, citing the need to develop environmental regulations for the industry, before reversing course in 2017 and signaling it would enact a permanent ban.Energy companies combine horizontal drilling with hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” a technique that injects vast amounts of water, along with sand and chemicals, underground to break up the shale and release the gas.

Police aid mom who delivered baby in car outside NJ hospital

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 18:11:47 +0000

Two police officers in New Jersey took immediate action when a woman gave birth in a car outside a hospital.Officers Auttika Taing and Justin Peyton were leaving the AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center on Saturday when a vehicle pulled behind them and the driver said her friend needed help, Atlantic City police said.The woman had just given birth and the baby was inside her pants.Body cam video showed Taing safely removed the baby and the umbilical cord from around the baby’s neck. The baby was wrapped in a jacket while medical personnel cut the cord, police said. Peyton pinched the cord while Taing carried the baby into the emergency room, police said.The officers met the mother and the baby, Anna, on Wednesday. Both are “doing well,” police said.

Latest coronavirus updates in New Jersey: Thursday, February 25, 2021

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 10:01:29 +0000

Below you will find the most up-to-date information on coronavirus news impacting New Jersey. You can find additional resources and coverage on our coronavirus page.Latest official numbers:As of Wednesday, there have been 689,944 confirmed cases in the state since March, and there have been 20,746 lab-confirmed coronavirus deaths, according to the state Health Department.To find the nearest free COVID-19 testing location, click here.Tips to protect yourself and others amid coronavirus outbreaks.Call New Jersey's coronavirus hotline at 1-800-222-1222. You can also click here for additional information

Inmate at NJ prison with 'ugly history' hospitalized

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 02:53:33 +0000

An inmate at New Jersey’s only women’s prison was hospitalized after being pushed into a wall by guards just weeks after other officers were charged with misconduct. That's according to the woman's attorney and a hospital spokesperson, who spoke to NJ.com. The attorney and spokesperson say Rae Rollins, a transgender woman and inmate at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility, was taken to the hospital Thursday, treated and released after the guards pushed her into a wall. The news publication reports she was treated for a concussion and a hand injury.

Officials identify woman, son recovered in New Jersey pond

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 21:38:54 +0000

Authorities on Wednesday identified a mother and son whose bodies were found a day earlier in a pond in northern New Jersey.Emergency crews recovered the bodies of 35-year-old Wanda Syed and 11-year-old Uzair Ahmed. Syed’s 6-year-old son, whose name has not been released, was found unharmed at the scene.Police were called to Grace Lord Park in Boonton on Tuesday by a person who reported an unattended child standing near the pond and shouting for his mother.Footprints leading to the water led emergency crews to the bodies, and Boonton’s Swift Water Rescue Team recovered Syed and Ahmed, Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll said.Authorities didn't release additional details about the incident.

Florida man wanted for scamming New Jersey senior citizen

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:18:23 +0000

An arrest warrant has been issued for a Florida man who was accused of posing as an attorney and scamming a senior citizen in New Jersey out of $10,000, officials said.Juan Piedrahita, 49, of Hollywood, Florida, earlier this month called the victim and said his nephew had been arrested after a motor vehicle accident and needed money for bail, the Ocean County prosecutor said.Piedrahita then posed as a courier to collect the money in a pharmacy parking lot in Barnegat Township, officials said.The victim was contacted again and told another $10,000 was needed, authorities said.Bank staff became suspicious and questioned the victim, who then contacted his nephew and learned he had not been in an accident or arrested, the prosecutor said.Detectives reviewed surveillance footage which captured the vehicle Piedrahita had rented at Newark Liberty International Airport to confirm Piedrahita’s identity, the prosecutor said.He faces a theft by deception charge.Piedrahita's whereabouts were not known.

105-year-old COVID-19 survivor shares her secret to longevity

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:15:53 +0000

A 105-year-old survivor of COVID-19 has a secret to longevity that might surprise you.New Jersey nursing home resident Lucia DeClerck turned 105 on Jan. 25, but she tested positive for the coronavirus on the same day. Luckily, she didn’t develop symptoms and is virus-free.DeClerck has now survived two pandemics, two world wars, and countless life hurdles.Her secret to longevity? She eats nine gin-soaked golden raisins every morning.DeClerck’s family says this has been a lifelong habit.

Latest coronavirus updates in New Jersey: Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 09:59:28 +0000

Below you will find the most up-to-date information on coronavirus news impacting New Jersey. You can find additional resources and coverage on our coronavirus page.Latest official numbers:As of Tuesday, there have been 687,386 confirmed cases in the state since March, and there have been 20,689 lab-confirmed coronavirus deaths, according to the state Health Department.To find the nearest free COVID-19 testing location, click here.Tips to protect yourself and others amid coronavirus outbreaks.Call New Jersey's coronavirus hotline at 1-800-222-1222. You can also click here for additional information

Sabres beat slumping Devils 4-1 behind Ullmark's 41 saves

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:20:13 +0000

Victor Olofsson scored his sixth power-play goal, Linus Ullmark was magnificent in making 41 saves and the Buffalo Sabres beat the slumping New Jersey Devils 4-1. Rasmus Asplund and Dylan Cozens broke the game open early in the third period with goals in a 1:34 span that send the Devils to their third straight loss. Cody Eakin scored an empty-net goal with less than a second to play.The win was the Sabres’ second over the Devils in three days and only their second in the last seven games. They lost to the Islanders on Monday night.

Woman, child found dead in NJ pond, authorities say

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 03:08:23 +0000

An adult woman and an 11-year-old child were found dead in a New Jersey body of water Tuesday officials said, with another young child found alive at the scene.Authorities are investigating the discovery at Boonton Pond where the bodies were found Tuesday at about 5:40 p.m.Officers responded to the Upper Pond section of Grace Lord Park for a report of an unattended child. When searching the area, they discovered the bodies of a 35-year-old woman and a child approximately 11 years old in the water.The unattended child, 6, was unharmed, police said.Officials said more information will be released at a later date; the identities of the individuals are not being released at this time.This is a developing story.

New Jersey art teacher inspires students through superhero Tiktok videos

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 02:56:51 +0000

From Superman to Thor, in a time when we could all use a superhero, New Jersey art teacher and football coach Timothy Carr has transformed into one on Tiktok every day.He does it all to keep his students at the Avon Avenue Elementary School in Newark engaged. In 2020, when remote learning started, his students just weren't showing up to class."When we first made the transition, I had no students,” Carr said. "I would maybe be at one student"Unlike other school districts that have implemented hybrid learning, Newark schools have been fully remote since the beginning of the pandemic, because the city of Newark was one of the hardest hit by the virus. It’s caused many students — particularly younger kids — to lose interest in their classes, but Mr. Carr’s videos have motivated his students to show up."Now it’s full class.”Daveion Harriett is a 5th grader in Mr. Carr's art class."Mr. Carr's class is fun cause we get to watch Tiktok videos,” he said.Some of his students have even started dressing up as superheroes. Sometimes he teaches in full costume.Mr. Carr has a track record for motivating his students. In 2019, we featured the flag football team he coaches at the school, where he helped team members improve their grades and pushed them to show up to class, which boosted the school's attendance rate."This is my passion," he said. "My classroom is my second home for over 20 years."