#new_jersey

Slip and Fall Accidents in Audubon Shopping Centers New Jersey law requires businesses to maintain safe conditions on private property, including shopping center parking lots. If a customer falls due to a defect in the pavement, such as a pothole or a hidden wheel stop, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This applies to the two major shopping centers in Audubon, New Jersey, which have faced recurring issues with their aging infrastructure. Audubon Crossings and Audubon Commons, located along the Black Horse Pike, are among the largest retail spaces in the borough. Both centers were developed in the early 2000s, with Audubon Crossings opening in 2005 on the site of a previously demolished shopping mall. The pavement in these lots, now over two decades old, has deteriorated significantly due to environmental and usage factors. Summer heat exacerbates the problem, as asphalt softens under high temperatures, leading to surface damage. The weight of parked vehicles and delivery trucks creates ruts and cracks, which then allow water to seep in, forming potholes. These hazards pose risks to shoppers, particularly during the hottest months of the year. Wheel stops, the low concrete blocks at the end of parking spaces, are another common source of tripping. Over time, the paint on these stops fades, making them nearly invisible against the gray asphalt. Worn striping further complicates navigation, as faded lines blur the boundaries of parking spaces. Shoppers often cut across at angles, inadvertently stepping over wheel stops. The age of the concrete blocks also contributes to the issue, as they crack, shift, and settle into softened pavement, making them harder to spot.#new_jersey #rand_spear_the_accident_lawyer #audubon_crossings #audubon_commons #black_horse_pike

Meteorite Impact in New Jersey Offers Clues to Life’s Origins A meteorite that struck a home in Hillsborough, New Jersey, on July 16, 2024, has provided scientists with rare insights into the ancient chemistry of asteroids and their potential role in delivering life’s building blocks to Earth. The event, which was captured by multiple cameras and reported by witnesses across the Northeast, resulted in the recovery of a primitive meteorite containing preserved salty fluids that could shed light on how water and organic compounds might have influenced the emergence of life. The meteor, which weighed over two pounds, streaked across the New York City area in broad daylight, producing a sonic boom as it passed south of the Statue of Liberty. Its trajectory, measured by cameras in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, traced back to the asteroid belt. The object, roughly the size of a heavy airline bag, traveled at 32,000 miles per hour (14.4 kilometers per second) before breaking apart in Earth’s atmosphere. Doppler weather radar at Newark Airport briefly detected an elongated cloud of falling debris extending from Staten Island into New Jersey. Hillsborough, located near the far end of the debris path, was where the largest fragments landed. The homeowner, who was at home during the impact, described the event as a loud crash that left a hole in the ceiling of their master bedroom. They reported a strong sulfur-like odor and found black fragments, debris, and dust covering their bed, carpet, and surrounding areas. Acting quickly to preserve the material, the homeowner used disposable gloves and aluminum foil to collect the fragments, placing them in glass jars to prevent contamination.#new_jersey #hillsborough #statue_of_liberty #seti_institute #nasa_ames_research_center

A Meteorite Punches Through a New Jersey Roof, Revealing Alien Chemistry A meteorite struck a bedroom ceiling in Hillsborough, New Jersey, in July 2024, sparking a scientific breakthrough. The rock, which fell through a roof and scattered fragments across a domestic space, was recovered with remarkable care, preserving its extraterrestrial chemistry. Scientists have since identified hundreds of amino acids within the meteorite, most of which are not naturally found on Earth, offering new insights into the chemical processes of ancient asteroids. The event began on July 16, 2024, when a bright fireball streaked across the New York City skyline, producing a sonic boom. One fragment of the meteorite pierced through a roof in Hillsborough, landing in a bedroom and leaving behind dark dust and fragments. Unlike typical meteorite recovery scenarios, which often involve prolonged exposure to terrestrial elements, the homeowner’s prompt action—collecting the fragments with gloves, wrapping them in aluminum foil, and storing them in glass containers—minimized contamination. This rapid recovery proved critical for preserving the meteorite’s pristine state, allowing researchers to study its composition before Earth’s environment altered it. The meteorite, now named Hillsborough, is classified as a primitive CM carbonaceous chondrite. These types of meteorites are rare and valuable because they contain materials from the early solar system, including minerals altered by water and organic compounds linked to prebiotic chemistry. A study published in Science Advances highlights the meteorite’s unique properties, particularly its evidence of ancient briny fluids.#new_jersey #hillsborough #nasa_goddard_space_flight_center #american_museum_of_natural_history #japan_hayabusa2

Real Housewives Star Teresa Giudice Reflects on Prison Experience Amid Franchise's 20th Anniversary Teresa Giudice, a central figure in the Real Housewives of New Jersey franchise, is sharing more about her time in prison as the show marks its 20th anniversary. Giudice recently spoke with The Hollywood Reporter, discussing her decision to continue filming the series during her legal troubles, which ultimately led to her 11-month incarceration and her ex-husband Joe’s deportation after serving a 41-month sentence. Giudice described her initial mindset during the legal proceedings, stating, “I’m always a mom first. I always want to protect my children over anything.” She recalled her belief that the situation would resolve without severe consequences, saying, “I really never in a million years thought I would go to jail. If you said to me, ‘I’ll give you $40 million right now, are you going to go to jail?’ I’d be like, ‘No, absolutely not.’” The legal drama unfolded in 2014 during season 6 of the show, when the Giudice family faced a federal indictment for bankruptcy, mail, wire, and bank fraud. They entered a plea deal in March 2014, which paused filming as Giudice served her sentence. Season 7 resumed the day of her release, though her ex-husband Joe had already been deported to Italy in 2019. The couple finalized their divorce a year later. Giudice expressed frustration with the public perception of her role in the case, insisting, “Being a celebrity made me go to jail. They made an example.” She emphasized her innocence, stating, “I know I didn’t do anything. I know I wasn’t a criminal. I went to a closing. That’s all I did. I went to a refinance for a home for a closing. That’s what I did.#new_jersey #the_hollywood_reporter #teresa_giudice #real_housewives_of_new_jersey #the_real_housewives_ultra_girls_trip_roaring_20th

Flooding spreads in eastern New York as the heavy rain responsible shifts to New England Dangerous flooding is unfolding in eastern New York Wednesday as slow-moving downpours soak parts of the state and much of New England after drenching New Jersey and Pennsylvania on Tuesday. Flash flood warnings are in effect for parts of eastern and southern New York, where rainfall totals have topped 7 inches in several areas. Multiple counties in eastern New York have declared states of emergency due to flooding, with state swiftwater rescue teams deployed and rescues conducted by boat, according to state officials. The storm has dropped around 6.7 inches of rain at Albany International Airport since Tuesday, marking the city’s biggest two-day rainfall event on record. Schodack, New York, has seen the highest total so far from this storm with nearly 12 inches—more than twice the amount of rain the area sees on average in the entire month of July. More than 200 flights have been canceled at the New York City area’s LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark airports Wednesday, according to FlightAware. Boston Logan International Airport had about 60 cancellations as of late afternoon but hundreds of delays. Amtrak canceled service between New York City and Albany due to “high water and debris on tracks from recent storms.” This storm soaked parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania Tuesday, with several locations in northern New Jersey logging an entire July’s worth of rain. Twenty people were rescued from floodwater in Paterson. The greatest flood danger through Wednesday night is centered on parts of eastern New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Connecticut, where a Level 3 of 4 risk of flooding rain is in place. Flooding has stranded cars and forced rescues.#new_york #new_jersey #pennsylvania #massachusetts #vermont

FIFA World Cup Trophy Controversy: Donald Trump's Unusual Behavior Sparks Social Media Backlash The FIFA World Cup 2026 final, held in New Jersey, saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 to claim the championship title. However, the event took an unexpected turn when U.S. President Donald Trump remained on stage after presenting the trophy and medals, disrupting the celebratory atmosphere for the Spanish players. This incident quickly became a focal point of criticism on social media, with many accusing Trump of interfering with the historic moment. During the trophy ceremony, Trump handed over the World Cup trophy to Spain’s captain and distributed medals to the players. Typically, dignitaries leave the stage after such rituals, but Trump stayed behind, reportedly standing near the players while cameras captured the moment. This decision drew immediate backlash, as it was seen as an unnecessary disruption to the players’ emotional celebration. Other international guests, including Mexico’s president and Canada’s prime minister, promptly exited the stage, but Trump remained, sparking debates about his behavior. Reports indicate that FIFA President Gianni Infantino intervened, approaching Trump to signal that he should leave the stage. After this exchange, Trump finally departed, allowing the Spanish team to proceed with their official celebration. The incident raised questions about Trump’s conduct at public events, with critics arguing that his presence overshadowed the players’ joy. Social media platforms quickly amplified the controversy, with users sharing videos and images of Trump’s actions. Many football fans expressed frustration, accusing him of intruding on a moment meant for the athletes.#donald_trump #new_jersey #gianni_infantino #fifa_world_cup_2026 #spanish_team

Roof Collapse at BJ's Wholesale Club in Ocean Township Amid Severe Weather A partial roof collapse occurred at a BJ's Wholesale Club in Ocean Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey, on Monday, July 6, 2026, following heavy rainfall and flooding. The incident happened around 11 a.m. at the store located on Route 35. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported, though the collapse caused significant damage to the building. The roof gave way under the weight of the excessive rain, sending water and debris into the store. At the time of the collapse, 27 people were inside the building. Two individuals were partially trapped but managed to free themselves and evacuate safely. Emergency responders conducted primary and secondary searches of the structure using a drone from the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and K-9 teams from the New Jersey Urban Search and Rescue unit. Officials estimated that approximately 20% of the building collapsed during the incident. The area had already experienced major flooding prior to the collapse, which contributed to the instability of the structure. Authorities issued warnings advising the public to avoid the vicinity of the site due to the high risk of further danger. Police also urged residents to stay clear of Route 35, Park Avenue, and Deal Road, particularly between Routes 18 and 35, until further notice. Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden addressed the situation, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of severe weather and the importance of public safety. “This incident is another reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions,” Golden stated. He praised the efforts of first responders, noting their seamless collaboration despite the ongoing challenges posed by flooding and extreme weather.#new_jersey #bj_s_wholesale_club #ocean_township #monmouth_county #monmouth_county_sheriff

GOP Rep. Tom Kean Returns to Congress, Disclosing Diagnosis of Depression Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey disclosed on Tuesday that he had been hospitalized for depression, a condition that has kept him absent from public life for months. Speaking on the House floor, Kean emphasized the importance of seeking help, stating, “Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength.” His disclosure came as he prepares to run for a third term in a competitive district, despite having missed over 140 votes since March 5, when he last cast a ballot. Kean described depression as a complex illness that extends beyond emotional distress, noting its physical and psychological toll. “Until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said. During his hospital stay, he reflected on how long the condition had affected his life, acknowledging that recovery has no set timeline. “There is no timeline for healing, only the work of getting better one day at a time,” he added. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who addressed reporters ahead of Kean’s speech, expressed support for the New Jersey Republican. Johnson admitted he would have been more open about his own condition but defended Kean’s absence, stating, “I think his constituents have been served throughout this process. I think Tom gets reelected easily this fall.” Johnson also sent a personal note to Kean, assuring him, “We’re in your corner and we’re behind you 100%.” Kean’s prolonged absence sparked questions about transparency. Johnson claimed he had spoken with Kean on April 24, during which the congressman described his condition as a “personal health matter” and expressed optimism about his recovery.#new_jersey #house_speaker_mike_johnson #tom_kean_jr #tom_kean_sr #congressional_disclosure_documents

New Jersey Congressman Tom Kean Jr. Discloses Reason for Four-Month Congressional Absence Rep. Thomas Kean Jr., a Republican from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, revealed on June 30, 2026, that his prolonged absence from Congress—spanning over four months and more than 140 missed roll call votes—was due to a severe depression diagnosis and subsequent hospitalization. The congressman, whose father served as a former governor of New Jersey, described his mental health struggles as a critical turning point in his life, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Kean’s absence, which began in March 2026, drew scrutiny from colleagues and the media. During his time away, USA TODAY’s attempts to contact him were unsuccessful. In a statement, Kean acknowledged that he initially believed he could “push through” his condition but ultimately followed his doctors’ recommendations. He did not provide specific details about his hospitalization, though he highlighted the broader societal impact of depression, noting that it remains one of the most common mental health disorders in the U.S. The most recent Gallup poll indicated that over 18% of U.S. adults experience depression, a figure that has remained at historic highs in recent years. Kean’s absence has complicated his re-election prospects. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report revised its assessment of the November general election race, shifting it from a “leaning Republican” contest to a “toss-up.” His Democratic opponent, former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett, has already criticized his voting record, as has the national Democratic Party. Eli Cousin, a spokesperson for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, remarked in May that Kean’s “career politician” image has made him “more vulnerable” in the race.#new_jersey #mike_johnson #republican #tom_kean_jr #cook_political_report

Strict Verizon Policy Leaves Customers Waiting Longer in Stores Verizon is facing growing frustration among customers and employees as the telecommunications giant enforces a strict in-store policy that has led to long wait times and aggressive sales tactics. The policy, which requires staff to push new products and services on every customer interaction, has sparked tensions within the company and raised concerns about the quality of customer service. The situation has come to light as part of broader operational changes under new CEO Dan Schulman, who has been working to reverse years of customer attrition and financial struggles. Schulman, who took over as CEO in October 2025, has emphasized a “aggressive transformation” of Verizon, citing recent price hikes and customer dissatisfaction as key factors driving away users. Over the past three years, the company has lost 2.25 million postpaid phone customers, a trend Schulman has vowed to reverse. To streamline operations, he initiated a major round of layoffs in November 2025, cutting 13,000 jobs to “simplify” the company and “build a faster, stronger Verizon.” This was followed by another round of layoffs in May 2026, affecting hundreds of employees at Verizon’s headquarters in New Jersey. The latest controversy centers on a policy requiring employees to offer every new product or service to customers during in-store interactions, regardless of their needs or circumstances. A Verizon employee shared details of the policy on Reddit, describing how staff are forced to push a wide array of offerings, including new lines, tablets, watches, home internet, insurance, and device protection, even when customers are simply seeking to cancel service or upgrade their phones.#new_jersey #reddit #verizon #dan_schulman #kevin_zavaglia

Americans Travel Despite Soaring Gas and Airfare Prices A record 45 million Americans are embarking on trips this holiday weekend, despite gas and airfare prices reaching their highest levels in years. According to AAA, the number of travelers—those flying or driving at least 50 miles from home—has surpassed last year’s record of 44.8 million. The surge in travel comes as airfares have risen over 20% compared to 2025, and gas prices nationally average $4.55 per gallon, up $1.38 from last year and 53% higher since the start of the Iran war. James Smith, a traveler from New Mexico, spent $550 to fly to Newark, New Jersey, for a weekend getaway with friends at the Jersey shore. “When it comes to travel, it’s one of the only things I’ll treat myself on,” he told CNN. Despite the steep costs, many Americans are choosing to prioritize travel over other expenses. Experts note that concern about rising prices hasn’t translated into significant changes in behavior, as more than half of leisure hotel spending comes from individuals earning $150,000 or more annually. Adam Sacks, president of Tourism Economics, explained that while surveys show widespread worry about gas prices, there’s a disconnect between how people feel and how they act. “Historically, gas spikes haven’t dropped leisure or business travel without other factors also weighing in,” he said. This is partly because the groups most affected by higher prices—such as lower-income travelers—were already less likely to take trips. Sacks emphasized that the majority of leisure hotel spending is driven by high earners, who are less sensitive to price increases. Some travelers are adapting to the financial strain by altering their plans.#long_island #new_jersey #american_airlines #yosemite_national_park #asian_american_hotel_owners_association

PSEG Marks Earth Day by Highlighting Environmental Initiatives that Support and Care for Our Communities PSEG, a major utility company based in New Jersey, used Earth Day 2026 to showcase its environmental efforts aimed at benefiting the communities it serves. The company emphasized its commitment to delivering safe, reliable energy while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Rick Thigpen, Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship, stated that caring for the environment is central to PSEG’s success. The company’s initiatives include reducing emissions, protecting wildlife habitats, and helping customers lower energy use through energy efficiency programs. These efforts reflect PSEG’s dedication to its role as a public service provider. In 2025, PSEG implemented several key environmental projects. The utility planted 775 trees as part of its Vegetation Management program, which complements community environmental efforts led by the PSEG Foundation and Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Additionally, PSEG managed 51 pollinator habitat enhancement sites spanning approximately 325 acres. These sites included native pollinator seeding across 77 acres and the planting of 1,900 milkweed plants to support monarch butterflies and strengthen local ecosystems. The company also continued its work to reduce operational emissions. PSEG achieved a 95 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to the 2005 baseline through strategic measures such as retiring older fossil fuel generation units, divesting remaining fossil assets, modernizing the gas system, upgrading equipment, and improving facility efficiency. These actions have significantly lowered the company’s environmental footprint.#new_jersey #pseg #rick_thigpen #pseg_foundation #pseg_power

Powerball Jackpot Results for Wednesday, April 29, 2026 The Powerball lottery jackpot for the Wednesday, April 29, 2026 drawing was estimated at $143 million, with a cash option valued at $65 million, according to the Powerball website. This marked a significant drop from the previous jackpot, which was won on April 6 by a player in Delaware for $230.8 million. The current jackpot for the Mega Millions lottery stood at $178 million, with a cash option of $79.6 million. The winning numbers for the April 29, 2026 Powerball drawing were 3, 19, 35, 51, 67, and the Powerball number 15. Powerball drawings occur three times weekly—on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET. Monday drawings were introduced in 2021. Players must purchase tickets before state-specific deadlines to ensure eligibility. In New Jersey, tickets must be bought by 9:59 p.m. on the day of the drawing, while New York’s deadline is 10:00 p.m. A complete list of state-specific deadlines is available online. To participate, players select five numbers from 1 to 69 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 26 for the red Powerball. The cost per ticket is $2, with an optional $1 Power Play add-on that can multiply non-jackpot prizes up to five times. The Power Play option offers a 10x multiplier when the jackpot is under $150 million. Quick-pick tickets, generated by the lottery system, are also available. Prizes range from $4 for matching the Powerball to $1 million for matching all five white balls (excluding California). The jackpot requires matching all six numbers. Detailed payout information is accessible on the Powerball website. Powerball is available in 45 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.#new_york #new_jersey #powerball #mega_millions #jackpocket

Busch Light Apple Returns in 2026: Limited Release Details and Where to Find It Busch Light Apple, the apple-flavored beer known as "Bapple," is returning to stores nationwide by the end of April 2026. Anheuser-Busch has not provided a single nationwide release date, meaning availability may vary by retailer. The beer will be sold in six-packs and 12-packs, with limited quantities available. Fans of the seasonal offering, which debuted in 2020, have historically faced quick sell-outs during prior limited releases, prompting the need for prompt action to secure the product. The 2026 release follows a 2025 launch that saw the beer sell 1.2 million cases in its first month. According to Anheuser-Busch, this marked a record for the brand, with first-month sales exceeding those of any other beer at the time. The company emphasized that the 2026 edition will again be limited, requiring consumers to check multiple locations or wait for restocks as the product becomes available. For those in New Jersey, the Busch Light Apple beer can be located using the official Busch locator tool. By selecting "BUSCH LT APPLE" in the dropdown menu and entering a ZIP code, users can find nearby stores that carry the product. Large grocery chains like ShopRite, Wegmans, Stop & Shop, Acme, and Foodtown are likely to stock the beer. Independent liquor stores and beer distributors in the state are often the most reliable sources for seasonal and limited releases, as they frequently receive shipments before larger chains. Fans describe "Bapple" as a standout option in the apple-flavored beer category. The beer combines a sweet, fruit-forward taste with a traditional light beer finish, appealing to those who enjoy apple flavor without transitioning into cider territory.#new_jersey #wegmans #anheuserbusch #busch_light_apple #shoprite

Busch Light Apple Returns for Limited-Time Nationwide Release in 2026 Anheuser-Busch is set to reintroduce its popular Busch Light Apple, affectionately dubbed “Bapple,” as a limited-time, nationwide offering by the end of April 2026. The apple-flavored beer, which first launched in 2020, has cultivated a dedicated fan base over the past few years, with its seasonal releases often selling out quickly. The 2026 version will follow the same limited availability pattern, prompting fans to plan ahead or visit multiple stores to secure their preferred option. The return of “Bapple” marks a significant moment for the brand, which has become a staple for consumers seeking a fruit-forward beer without the heaviness of traditional ciders. Since its debut, the beer has consistently drawn strong demand, with its 2025 release alone selling 1.2 million cases. Anheuser-Busch reported that first-month sales for that year exceeded those of any other brand, underscoring its appeal. The 2026 release is expected to mirror this success, though the company has not yet announced a single nationwide sale date, leaving availability to vary by retailer. For New Jersey residents, the beer will be available in various packaging options, including six-packs and 12-packs, though exact release dates may differ across stores. To locate “Bapple” in the state, consumers are advised to use the Busch locator tool on the official website. By selecting “BUSCH LT APPLE” in the dropdown menu and entering their ZIP code, users can access real-time information on which stores will carry the beer and when it will be stocked. This tool is particularly useful given the limited nature of the release, as some retailers may receive the product earlier than others.#new_jersey #anheuserbusch #busch_light_apple #busch_locator_tool #busch_lt_apple

Saturday 4/11/26 Powerball $35 million jackpot winning numbers The Powerball lottery for Saturday, April 11, 2026, concluded with a jackpot of $35 million, offering players the chance to claim the prize either as a lump sum of $15.9 million or through the annuity option. The winning numbers for the drawing were 49, 47, 60, 6, and 53, with the Powerball number 6 and a Power Play multiplier of 2x. This result marked the latest in a series of Powerball draws, following a previous jackpot win on April 6, 2026, where a single winner in Delaware claimed $231 million. The Powerball jackpot for the April 11 drawing was significantly lower than the previous record-breaking prize, which had reached $231 million in the prior week. However, the Mega Millions lottery, another major U.S. draw, reported a jackpot of $120 million, highlighting the competitive nature of the nation’s largest lottery games. The Powerball results were announced on the official lottery website, with the winning numbers becoming available shortly after the drawing. Players who purchased tickets in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut had until 10 p.m., 9:45 p.m., and 10 p.m., respectively, on the night of the draw to submit their entries. The next Powerball drawing was scheduled for Monday, April 13, with regular draws occurring on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 10:59 p.m. ET. The Powerball website provided live coverage of the drawing, allowing viewers to watch the results as they were announced. The Powerball game requires participants to select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26. To win the jackpot, players must match all six numbers, a feat with odds of 1 in 292.2 million.#new_york #new_jersey #powerball #powerball_website #connecticut

New Jersey becomes second state this year to lift its nuclear moratorium New Jersey has become the sixth state in the last decade, and the second this year, to fully repeal its moratorium on building new nuclear power stations. Governor Mikie Sherrill signed legislation ending an outdated radioactive-waste-disposal law that had blocked new projects. The Democrat, who campaigned last year on expanding nuclear power in the state, called the prohibitions obsolete. The law, enacted in the 1970s, required new projects to point to a method of radioactive waste disposal that did not exist at the time. It tied construction permits to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission establishing disposal methods, a condition Sherrill described as an "outdated standard that cannot be met." The legislation now allows projects to use safe, cutting-edge storage methods, which have been used thousands of times in over 35 states for the last 40 years with a 100% safety record. The Hope Creek Generating Station, located along the Delaware River in New Jersey, and the Salem Nuclear Power Plant, both owned by PSEG, are central to this shift. Combined, these facilities produce 40% of New Jersey’s electricity and 80% of its carbon-free power. The state’s moratorium, one of the nation’s earliest, was enacted when the U.S. was expanding its reactor fleet without a plan for radioactive waste. At the time, lawmakers amended the Coastal Area Facility Review Act to require the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to establish disposal methods before new construction could proceed. Federal efforts to address nuclear waste have been stalled since the 1980s, when Yucca Mountain in Nevada was designated as the first permanent repository. Work began in the 2000s under President George W.#new_jersey #salem_nuclear_power_plant #governor_mikie_sherrill #hope_creek_generating_station #pseg

New Jersey Lifts 40-Year Moratorium on New Nuclear Power Plants New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed legislation on Wednesday to end the state’s 40-year de-facto moratorium on new nuclear power plants, citing the urgent need to address rising electricity costs and the growing gap between energy supply and demand. The measure, which passed the General Assembly on March 23 with a large majority, amends the Coastal Area Facility and Review Act, a law that previously barred the state’s Department of Environmental Protection from issuing permits for nuclear facilities unless the federal government established a permanent nuclear waste disposal site. Sherrill emphasized that the decision was driven by the need to reduce energy costs for consumers, stating, “For costs to come down, we need more energy supply.” She argued that the outdated permit requirements, which had prevented new nuclear projects, were no longer viable. The legislation now allows permits for new reactors based on “safe, [Nuclear Regulatory Commission] compliant waste storage” with a “100 percent effective safety record in the U.S.” The bill’s sponsor, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo, highlighted the potential of nuclear energy as a stable, carbon-neutral power source. “I am excited that we are moving closer to building more nuclear generation in our State because it has proven to be a stable and reliable carbon neutral energy source that will help us bridge the gap between what we generate and use,” he said. The move follows a broader push by Sherrill to tackle energy costs, including a state of emergency declaration on energy prices and the creation of a 14-member task force focused on energy financing, supply chains, workforce development, and regulatory frameworks.#new_jersey #mikie_sherrill #wayne_deangelo #salem_nuclear_power_plant #hope_creek

Fireball Seen Over Philadelphia Region Confirmed as Meteor by NASA People across the Philadelphia region witnessed a brilliant fireball streaking across the sky on Tuesday afternoon, and NASA has confirmed the phenomenon was a meteor. The event, which sparked widespread reports and social media activity, was first observed around 2:34 p.m. in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, with one viewer, Leslie Galloza, capturing an image of the celestial display. The American Meteor Society reported that numerous individuals across the region observed the fireball around the same time, describing it as a bright, fast-moving object that illuminated the sky. NASA later clarified on social media that the fireball was indeed a meteor, providing detailed information about its trajectory and speed. According to the space agency, the meteor was first detected approximately 48 miles above the Atlantic Ocean before traveling over Long Island at a staggering speed of 30,000 miles per hour. The meteor continued its path southwestward, covering a distance of 117 miles before disintegrating above Galloway, New Jersey. NASA officials noted that the object broke apart in the atmosphere, a common occurrence for meteors as they burn up due to friction with the air. While the exact origin of the meteor remains under investigation, its path suggests it entered Earth’s atmosphere from the northeastern skies, likely originating from space. The event has sparked interest among astronomy enthusiasts and the general public, with many sharing their observations and photographs online. NASA’s confirmation has helped alleviate speculation about the fireball’s nature, though experts continue to analyze data to determine its composition and potential impact.#nasa #new_jersey #philadelphia #american_meteor_society #leslie_galloza

Former Gloucester County Middle School Teacher Charged with Alleged Child Sex Assault A former middle school teacher in Gloucester County, New Jersey, has been charged with alleged sexual misconduct involving a student. Ashley Fisler, 36, of Washington Township, was arrested on Thursday, March 26, 2026. According to authorities, Fisler allegedly engaged in a sexual relationship with a student during her tenure at Orchard Valley Middle School in 2021. The victim, who is now an adult, came forward with the details of the incident earlier this year. The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s office confirmed that Fisler is no longer employed as a teacher in Washington Township or any other capacity. She faces six counts of first-degree sexual assault of a minor, one count of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of second-degree official misconduct. The charges stem from the alleged relationship that occurred while she was teaching at the school. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the nature of the relationship or the circumstances under which the victim reported the incident. However, the case highlights the ongoing concerns about educator misconduct and the legal consequences for such actions. Fisler’s arrest and the charges against her underscore the seriousness with which authorities treat allegations of sexual abuse involving minors. The case has drawn attention to the importance of accountability in educational institutions and the need for strict oversight to prevent such incidents. While the details of the relationship remain unclear, the charges indicate that the prosecution believes the allegations are credible and warrant legal action.#new_jersey #orchard_valley_middle_school #washington_township #ashley_fisler #gloucester_county_prosecutor