TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello told MidJersey.News in an email, “Although this is under the board of elections, I have been informed that they were all found by them and are being counted.”
As reported yesterday by MidJersey.news a bag of Robbinsville emergency ballots went missing, and also 3 Princeton districts also appeared to be missing as of this morning.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Spokesperson Casey DeBlasio, told MidJersey.news in an email, “I can confirm the county clerk did reach out to the prosecutor today. We are reviewing her concerns to determine what further action should be taken.”
MidJersey.news did reach out to Mercer County Board of Elections this morning and have not received a reply yet.
Check back with MidJersey.news we will update as information becomes available.
SEE UPDATED STORY HERE: UPDATE: Driving While Intoxicated Leads To Car Sunk Into Lake Mercer By Boathouse
BREAKING NEWS REPORT: Information provided is from on scene reports. Once official information is released the story will be updated and any corrections and additions made.
July 3, 2020 incident approximately 11:15 pm. Time of report 1:45 am July 4, 2020
1:47 am update, divers were back in the water assisting the tow truck company hooking up cables to pull the car out of the water.
2:05 am update divers were out of the water and car was being pulled out by the tow trucks.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—Around 11:15 pm Mercer County Park Rangers and West Windsor Police requested West Windsor Fire Company and Princeton Junction Fire Company for a car in the water. West Windsor Emergency Services EMS evaluated one person on scene, who was the suspected driver. Hightstown Fire Company was requested for the dive team.
Boats searched the lake for the car in the water and it was found by the dock for the Mercer County Park Boathouse. Hightstown Fire Company put a diver in the water to check for any additional occupants and the vehicle was searched but no other occupants were found.
Crews were still on scene at 1:45 am waiting for additional tow trucks to arrive to pull the vehicle from the water.
Once West Windsor Police Department releases more information the story will be updated with further details.
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TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–This morning at the historic Eagle Tavern on Broad Street, Commanding Officer of the Virginia Class nuclear submarine, USS New Jersey, SSN-796, Jared Smith received a proclamation for Trenton Navy Week from Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora and Trenton North Ward Councilwoman Marge Caldwell-Wilson.
The Navy be sending roughly 100 sailors into the greater Trenton area for the week, who will be meeting with area students to talk about the importance of STEM education, volunteering at local non-profits, and holding community events to get sailors out into the community. All told, there will be upwards of 75 events held during Trenton Navy Week with sailors coming from commands based all over the country.
Trenton was chosen as one of 14 cities to host Navy Week across the country this year and takes place May 2-8, 2022. This year is set to be the first time a Navy Week has been held in the state of New Jersey in the history of the program. A planned Trenton Navy Week of 2020 which had to be scrapped due to COVID.
PCU New Jersey (SSN 796) is a Virginia-class attack submarine.
The Virginia-class, also known as the VA-class or 774-class, is a class of nuclear-powered fast attack submarines in service with the U.S. Navy. The submarines are designed for a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions. They were conceived as a less expensive alternative to the Seawolf-class attack submarines, designed during the Cold War era, and are replacing older Los Angeles-class submarines, 29 of which have already been decommissioned.
According to Wikipedia SSN 796, New Jersey was christened on November 13, 2021 and launched on April 14, 2022. The New Jersey is the first US Navy submarine designed for a mixed-gender crew.
(Left) Jared Smith, the Commanding Officer of the soon-to-be commissioned Virginia Class nuclear submarine, USS New Jersey receives a Proclamation for Trenton Navy Week from (Right) Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora and (Center) Trenton North Ward Councilwoman Marge Caldwell-Wilson. Photo by: Brian McCarthy, OnScene News
USS New Jersey SSN 796 Commissioning Committee, Photo
May 2, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office has identified the deceased from yesterday’s mass shooting as Jamir McNeil, 25 of Trenton and is the city’s 10th homicide of 2022.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred Sunday afternoon in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
Yesterday at approximately 1:30 p.m. on May 1, 2022, the Shot Spotter activation system reported multiple rounds in the 800 block of Beatty Street. Moments later, several 911 calls were received reporting multiple people shot.
Police responded to the scene and located three adult male victims suffering gunshot wounds. Two victims were located in the 100 block of Randall Avenue and one was located on Beatty Street. The victim located on Beatty Street was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a short time later. The two additional victims are being treated. Preliminary investigation indicates two of the three shooting victims, including the deceased, were targeted.
No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with informationis asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Yesterday at 1:28 p.m. Trenton Police, Trenton EMS, Trenton Fire Department and Captial Health Paramedics responded to the area of 159 Randall for a person shot. When Trenton firefighters arrived on scene, they reported multiple people shot and requested additional ambulances, paramedics, and additional firefighters to the scene to help. There were reports of two victims on Randal between 140-160 and another victim in the 800 block of Beatty Street inside a bodega. CPR was being performed on the victim inside the bodega and a “Trauma Alert” “Trauma Arrest” was called during transportation to Captial Health’s Trauma Center. One of the victims on Randall reportedly had an upper extremity gun shot wound and a tourniquet was applied. In total three people were transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center all with “Trauma Alerts” called.
Trenton Police were seen marking off areas with crime scene tape and it appeared that there were 12 to 13 markers for shell casings Randall Avenue. The Mercer County Homicide Task Force was on scene investigating.
Names of the 2022 homicide victims in the City of Trenton:
2/15/2022 Antwone Barnes, 37, of Trenton, Stabbing
2/23/2022 Leonardo Fernandez, 32, of Trenton, Stabbing
3/01/2022 Shimon Nesmith Jr., 19, of Trenton, Shooting
3/03/2022 Helen Nelson, 73, of Trenton, Physical Assault
3/15/2022 Albert L. Barnes, 46, of Trenton, Shooting
3/25/2022 Sequoya Bacon-Jones, 9, of Trenton, Shooting
3/31/2022 Tahaad Goss, 16, of Trenton, Shooting
4/07/2022 Jaquir Queen, 26, of Willingboro, Shooting
4/09/2022 Leroy Davis, 31, of Trenton, Shooting
5/01/2022 Jamir McNeil, 25 of Trenton, Shooting
As of May 1, 2022 there have been 10 homicides in the city of Trenton.
Photos from the scene yesterday by: Dennis Symons, MidJersey.News and Brian McCarthy, OnScene News
May 2, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said the city is looking for Request for Proposals for the Eagle Tavern as announced at a press conference this morning in front of the old tavern. The historic tavern is located at 429-431 South Broad Street near the CURE Insurance Arena. A PDF file of the RFP is below.
Some history of the Tavern provided by the mayor’s offices stated that researchers haven’t been able to substantiate the various tales of George Washington visiting this tavern, but we know it overlooked the American Revolution.
When Robert Waln purchased the surrounding Trenton Mills property in 1765, detaching from William Trent House estate, Waln became a big-shot mill owner without a swank home. So, he built the first version of this place. He operated it as a tavern and hotel intermittently until 1900, and it was likely used in the withdrawal of British and Hessian forces in the First Battle of Trenton.
Mayor Gusciora stated that the Eagle Tavern is one of the city’s oldest buildings, and we want to make it new again. We’re hoping to find something that’s befitting of the property and that contributes to the City’s revitalization.
We released this RFP and sent it directly to some of the sectors we hope to find interest in, like:
NJ Brewers AssociationRestaurant & Hospitality AssociationAmerican Institute of ArchitectsBrewers Guild of New JerseyNew Jersey Builders Association
Minority & Women Contractors & Developers Association
Gusciora stated we are building on our past — not only the colonial roots – but the rich history of the industrialized powerhouse of Trenton, and the work of predecessors to restore those economic engines.
Overall, we are building partnerships and working with those who want what’s best for Trenton. There are difficulties dealing with some City partners, and some opportunities are being lost. But on every front, we are fighting to uplift neighborhoods and turn vacant eyesores into vibrant new hotspots.
eagle-tavern-rfp-with-eda-commentsDownload
Roebling Block III
We’re still bringing new tenants into Roebling Block III, like Princeton Hydro, a 40-member engineering firm expanding and moving here from Somerset County. They are the first recipients of our Job Creation Loan run out of the Division of Economic Development. They are using the loan to purchase furniture and equipment. A portion of the loan may be forgiven if they have Trentonians on the payroll once they ramp up—either hiring current Trentonians or having staff move to Trenton. Their office is across from Roebling Lofts and is part of the commercial mixed-use development.
This entire project was a large collaboration between the City, Mercer County, the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, and the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Roebling Block II
Now, we’re up and running for redevelopment at Robeling Block II, with our RFP already bringing in fabulous visions for the famous industrial complex, dating back to 1849. This is part of the historic Roebling Wire Works, founded in 1849. By World War I, the factory was the largest wire rope plant in the world. The buildings on this property were built between 1885 and 1957, are currently zoned for mixed-use, and have existing open floor plans ranging from 6,000 to 52,000 square feet.
Van Sciver Building
Last year, we had groundbreaking ceremony at the historic Van Sciver Building, a project that’s part of the New Jersey State Capital Partnership and financed by the New Jersey Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency. We’re talking about a state-of-the art mixed-use building with underground parking, more than 100 residential rental units, and over 7,500 square feet of retail space opening onto a plaza overlooking the creek. In the early 1930s, this was a furniture business by the Historic Mill Hill District. And 40 percent of these are affordable housing units.
Taxation Building
And finally, we’re making huge strides on the sale of the downtown Taxation Building. We’re going to revitalize the 10-story, 230,000-square-foot office building in downtown Trenton that was the longtime home of New Jersey’s Division of Taxation.
Photos and video by: Brian McCarty, OnScene News
May 2, 2022
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Township Police in a statement said, It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Hamilton Police Lieutenant Mark Horan who died unexpectedly at his residence on Saturday afternoon April 30, 2022. He was a devoted husband and father of five. Lieutenant Horan was appointed by the Hamilton Police Division in August of 1998 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. In March of 2009 Lieutenant Horan was assigned to the Hamilton Police Anit-Crime Unit. In March of 2010 he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and served in both the Patrol Division and the Anti-Crime Unit. In August of 2017 he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant serving in the Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Section and the Patrol Administration Bureau. He received numerous valor awards throughout his career.
Lieutenant Mark Horan was an exemplary Police Officer throughout his career. He was well-liked and respected by all. He will be greatly missed. On behalf of the entire Police Division, our thoughts and prayers are with Lieutenant Horan’s family.
The family requests privacy during this difficult time. I would like to thank all of the outside agencies that have given us assistance through this difficult time.
Hamilton Police Lieutenant Mark Horan
May 2, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Prosecutors office states that a Trenton teenager has been arrested and charged for the March shooting death of a 16-year-old that occurred on Liberty Street, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
The 14-year-old Trenton male is charged with second-degree reckless manslaughter and second-degree providing false information to law enforcement. The juvenile was arrested without incident on Friday. He was released on an electronic monitoring bracelet to a shelter with 24-hour supervision.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department. Just after 9 p.m. on March 31, 2022, Trenton police responded to a residence in the 100 block of Liberty Street on the report of a teenager shot. Upon arrival, officers located 16-year-old Tahaad Goss lying on the basement stairs suffering a gunshot wound to the face. He was pronounced dead at the scene. There were other teenagers present in the house and a gun was found in the basement.
Another Child Shot and Killed in Trenton
Names of the 2022 homicide victims in the City of Trenton:
2/15/2022 Antwone Barnes, 37, of Trenton, Stabbing
2/23/2022 Leonardo Fernandez, 32, of Trenton, Stabbing
3/01/2022 Shimon Nesmith Jr., 19, of Trenton, Shooting
3/03/2022 Helen Nelson, 73, of Trenton, Physical Assault
3/15/2022 Albert L. Barnes, 46, of Trenton, Shooting
3/25/2022 Sequoya Bacon-Jones, 9, of Trenton, Shooting
3/31/2022 Tahaad Goss, 16, of Trenton, Shooting
4/07/2022 Jaquir Queen, 26, of Willingboro, Shooting
4/09/2022 Leroy Davis, 31, of Trenton, Shooting
5/01/2022 Shooting
May 2, 2022
PEMBERTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Pemberton Township Police report that this morning, May 2nd, 2022, at 5:31 a.m. the Pemberton Township Police Department assisted by the New Jersey State Police TEAMS Unit executed a residential search warrant on the 600 block of Herbert Road pertaining to a narcotics investigation. The execution led to 17 arrests and the seizure of a quantity of Heroin, Methamphetamine and Cocaine consistent with distribution, specifically from Nicole Vida and Nicole Lihou. Cody Smires, who had an active warrant for his arrest, was located in the area and a pedestrian stop was conducted leading to him being arrested. He was found to be in possession of a quantity of Methamphetamine consistent with distribution. Additional suspects were charged with various crimes including Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Heroin and Methamphetamine). Talarick, Vida, Blankenship and Smires were all charged and lodged at the Burlington County Jail pending court appearances. All other subjects were released on summons for their charges.
This is the second time in a month that this address has been the target of a narcotics investigation by the Pemberton Township Police Department. A search warrant was executed on April 1st, 2022 where nine people were arrested including Vida who was charged with Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in that incident.
Jeffrey Pastore, 67, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Maintaining a Nuisance.
Jacob Talarick, 56, of Browns Mills was arrested on an active warrant and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Cody Smires, 29, of Browns Mills was arrested on an active warrant and charged with Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) (Methamphetamine), Distribution of CDS (Methamphetamine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Brandy Lawton, 31, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Nicole Vida, 40, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Distribution of a CDS (Heroin), Distribution of CDS (Cocaine) and Distribution of CDS (Methamphetamine).
Nicole Lihou, 31, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Distribution of a CDS (Heroin), Distribution of CDS (Cocaine) and Distribution of CDS (Methamphetamine).
Emerson Midgette, 41, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
David Roberts, 44, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Garriett Bullock, 60, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Michelle Lucas, 44, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Michael Gilliland, 44, of Browns Mills was arrested on an active warrant and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Latanya Jones, 52, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Alexus Jones, 26, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Desiree Blankenship, 30, of Browns Mills was arrested on an active warrant and charged with Possession of CDS (Methamphetamine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Michael Guerra, 37, of Browns Mills was arrested charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Eric Linzmayer, 41, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Lisa Acevedo, 49, of Browns Mills was arrested and charged with Possession of CDS (Heroin) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
As a reminder all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Anyone with information about this incident or other crimes occurring in Pemberton Township is asked to contact the Pemberton Township Police Department Detective Division at 609-894-3310 or the Confidential Tip-Line at 609-894-3352.
May 2, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–City officials report that at 8:40 p.m. Sunday, May 1, 2022, Trenton Police Department responded to reports of a stabbing at 836 S. Broad Street outside Broadway Bar. Officers found a male victim bleeding from the leg. Witnesses stated that the victim had a verbal altercation with a female bartender when another customer intervened and asked the victim to go outside with him. Police arrived after an altercation, and transported the victim for treatment. He was given staples and released from care. Trenton Police Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) is investigating the incident.
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Coast Guard medevaced a 46-year-old man from the fishing vessel Captain John Wednesday approximately forty-five miles east of Point Pleasant.
Another crewmember aboard the Captain John used a marine radio to notify Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay watchstanders of the medical emergency at about 5:30 p.m.
Watchstanders consulted the duty flight surgeon who recommended a medevac. The Coast Guard then immediately launched an MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter crew from Air Station Atlantic City.
Additionally, a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light deployed to provide additional support.
The man was safely medevaced at about 6:30 p.m. and taken to Air Station Atlantic City where his care was transferred to awaiting emergency medical services personnel.
Communication is key on the water. Having a VHF marine radio is the most reliable way to alert the Coast Guard to emergencies at sea. For more information on marine radios, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center.
USCG File Photos:
File Photo USCG Atlantic City (U.S. Coast Guard photo) USCG File photo: U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class David Weydert
New Program Will Not Impact In-Person Services at New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development or Motor Vehicle Commission
April 6, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) – The New Jersey Civil Service Commission (CSC) today voted to approve a pilot program empowering State of New Jersey departments and authorities to establish a telework program for employees. This action is a bold step toward modernizing New Jersey’s State workplace landscape while maintaining core services and ensuring responsiveness to the needs of constituents. Additionally, the shift to telework will offer more workplace flexibility, allowing State agencies to compete with the private sector by broadening strategies and incentives for talent recruitment and retention.
The pilot program will last one year and apply to all State departments and authorities, with an implementation deadline of July 1, 2022.
“Telework will accelerate the modernization of New Jersey’s State government to reflect the evolving workplace landscape,” said Governor Murphy. “Our union partners have been integral to the creation of this telework pilot program. Through collaboration, we can continue to build a workforce equipped to handle the demands of the modern workplace.”
“The approval of the Model Telework Pilot Program is a monumental step that addresses the current needs of the State workforce,” said Civil Service Commission Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Deirdré Webster Cobb Esq. “During the height of the pandemic, we witnessed State employees successfully continue to deliver critical State and public services while teleworking. As we witness changes around the world in the landscape of how we work, it is important for us to adapt in order to attract and retain qualified State workers.”
“CWA applauds Governor Murphy for taking the initiative in proposing a robust Pilot Telework Program for the State workforce,” said New Jersey State Director of the Communication Workers of America Fran Ehret. “This is a significant step forward and demonstrates the progressive leadership of this administration to carve new paths for fairer and stronger public services. We look forward to working with the Governor and his cabinet in implementing this program in a manner that is equitable and ensures that the highest quality services continue to be delivered to the public.”
Not all State employees will be eligible for telework due to the nature of their jobs. For example, Department of Labor & Workforce Development and Motor Vehicle Commission employees whose primary job responsibilities involve in-person services will not be eligible for telework.
The pilot telework program establishes general parameters for all State departments and authorities to follow when developing their department-specific telework policies. Parameters include:
All departments and authorities will be required to offer a telework program of no more than two working days per week based on operational need.
Appointing authorities should make available flextime schedules and/or alternate work programs for employees who are not eligible for telework when operational needs allow.
Employees will be required to engage in an application process to determine eligibility. Both employees and managers will be required to complete telework trainings as part of the approval process.
Significant discretion shall be given to appointing authorities to consider operational needs when determining telework schedules for eligible employees.
Each department will be required to consult with relevant unions when developing their telework plans.
All pilot telework plans must be submitted to the New Jersey Civil Service Commission (CSC) by June 1st and implemented by July 1st.
April 6, 2022
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 4:40 p.m. several 9-1-1 calls were received reporting a shed fire in the 2000 Block of Bay Boulevard in Ortley Beach section of Toms River. Firefighters found a well involved shed fire with exposure, with fire extending to a three-story home. Firefighters pulled two hand lines and extinguished the fire. There was damage to the exterior of the neighboring home. The fire is under investigation by the Toms River Fire Prevention Bureau.
Dispatched Stations: Station 44Station 45Station 27Station 28Station 26
Station 69
April 6, 2022
HAMILTON, NJ (MERCER) – Hamilton Township and Hamilton Township School District are pleased to announce a conceptual plan to construct and occupy a municipal complex that would bring the Township and School District offices together.
In late 2020, Hamilton Township acquired the long-vacant property at 1750 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road. The property, which is known to have been the former home of ShopRite, has been vacant for well over 17 years. Looking to redevelop the property for public use, the Township had requested the community to provide input for the site. While residents offered many great ideas, the suggestion of a joint municipal complex stood out. The plan for a municipal complex would continue to foster decades of shared services in furtherance of the idea that the Township and District serve to benefit the Township and school communities and each other.
While the complex design has yet to be drafted, both entities agree that the facility would feature space for the community to have improved access to public meetings and events and provide an area for District and Township professionals to train and develop in technologically ready space. The complex would capitalize on environmental, economic, and workforce efficiencies resulting from bringing multiple Township and School District facilities under one roof. As the property owner, the Township would lease half of the complex to the School District upon completion of construction.
“The current municipal building, built in 1928, has served the Township well over the past nearly 100 years,” said Mayor Jeff Martin. “In 1930, Hamilton’s census was 27,121; we are more than three times that number in 2020 at over 92,000 and need a facility that can properly serve our residents and a much larger community. I want to thank the Hamilton Council and HTSD for their partnership in moving this conceptual plan forward. Additionally, upon completion, I will ask Council to sell Greenwood Avenue land to HTSD for $1 for a new school site.”
This plan would allow the Township to close three buildings – 2090 Greenwood Avenue (Municipal Building), 2100 Greenwood Avenue (Division of Health), and 2388 Kuser Road (Division of Recreation) and move services under one roof to save on maintenance and operational costs. “With an elevator that hardly works, office space that can’t be used due to fumes, and a myriad of other problems, the Township Municipal Building is falling apart,” continued Mayor Martin.
“The joint municipal complex offers an opportunity to develop space fit for our professional educators and community partners,” stated Dr. Scott Rocco. “The Park Avenue building is a converted elementary school that has served us well but has limitations as our district modernizes its approach to learning and how it engages with parents and stakeholders. We look forward to working with the municipality in creating a town complex that works for our students and families.”
“I want to thank the Mayor and Council for involving the Hamilton Township Board of Education in this process and giving us the chance to be partners in developing a site that will bring so many community services together for our students, families, and township residents,” said School Board President Susan Lombardo
“As Councilwoman, teacher, and mother of two daughters in the school district, and experiencing the growing partnership between the district and Township firsthand over the last two years, it is clear to see why this move is a win-win for Hamilton. This ambitious once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allows the Township, as a whole, to streamline and modernize services to better serve all of our residents,” stated Township Council President Nancy Phillips.
The Township will work with the School District to start soon on design, as well as contracting for the demolition of the current building.
April 6, 2022
EAST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP. NJ (MERCER)–Mayor Janice S. Mironov and Council Members Denise Daniels, David Russell, Alan Rosenberg and John Zoller joined owners and franchisees Dipali Patel and Varsha Patel, Director of Operations Marisa Cashel, District Manager Carmen Leonardo and staff for the ribbon cutting of European Wax Center located in East Windsor Village Center next door to Target on Princeton Hightstown Road. 72 Princeton Hightstown Rd, East Windsor, NJ 08520
Mayor Mironov stated, “East Windsor welcomes European Wax Center, a quickly growing franchise in this industry of full waxing services and hair removal products as they further expand their operations with a local store. As one of the over 25 multi-state locations owned by the franchisees, we congratulate them for selection of this prime location in the East Windsor Village as part of their expansion efforts in New Jersey.”
European Wax Center, which began as a family-owned business, opened their first center in 2004 and offers a proprietary waxing process using 100% natural bees wax imported from Europe. In addition to licensed and professionally trained wax experts, their facility offers private waxing suites and a full line of body, skincare and brow products formulated without parabens or mineral oil. With over 800 locations nationwide, European Wax Center is a head-to-toe gender neutral waxing service which touts its longer lasting and healthy results. European Wax Center is the official waxing partner of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Current hours of operations are Monday thru Friday 8 A.M. to 9:30 P.M. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. Drop-ins are welcome and appointments can be made by calling (609) 918-4500 or by vising www.waxcenter.com.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–About 9:22 p.m. Robbinsville Township Police received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting multiple vehicles in an accident on Route 130 South Bound at Robbinsville Allentown Road. Robbinsville Police, Robbinsville Fire Department and EMS responded to the scene. There was a report of one injury that was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton. Three vehicles were towed from the scene, and it was unclear if others were involved in the crash. The left-hand turn lanes on both the north and south bound sides were closed for a brief time while the accident was cleaned up. The Robbinsville Township Police Department is investigating the crash. No other information is available at this time.
January 6, 2022
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – A Marine Corps AH-1 incident occurred approximately at 3:30 p.m. today in Wrightstown, N.J. according to the Joint Base MDL Public Affairs Office.
Local fire departments as well as Airport Rescue Firefighters from the US Air Force responded to the area of 500 Block of East Main Street in Wrightstown for what appeared to be a hard landing. East Main was closed from Fort Dix Street-Sykesville Road to McGuire Boulevard.
Joint Base Officials stated two personnel were on board and were transferred to nearby medical facilities. Their condition is stable.
The incident is currently under investigation.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
The scene this afternoon. Photo sent in by “Dutch” These Marine Soldiers from the HMLA 773d DET B prepare for a Dive Fire Aerial Gunnery exercise on Range 85 on Fort Dix, NJ Ranges. The Aerial Gunner is to make sure all weapons systems are functioning properly and are properly secured for safety and usage reasons. The Special Duty Assignment position is responsible for operating the airborne weapon systems and equipment. These Marine Soldiers from the HMLA 773d DET B prepare for a Dive Fire Aerial Gunnery exercise on Range 85 on Fort Dix, NJ Ranges. The Aerial Gunner is to make sure all weapons systems are functioning properly and are properly secured for safety and usage reasons. The Special Duty Assignment position is responsible for operating the airborne weapon systems and equipment. File photos from a training exercise on Range 85 last year You can read that MidJersey.News story here: https://midjersey.news/2021/12/08/marine-light-attack-helicopter-squadron-trains-at-joint-base/
For a List of Emergency Snow Routes and Alternative Parking Locations, Visit www.trentonnj.org/snow
January 6, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mayor W. Reed Gusciora today asked residents to sign up for alerts and prepare for an approaching winter storm system that could bring three to six inches of snow from Thursday evening through Friday morning.
Department of Public Works vehicles have been applying brine on main roads since 8:00 a.m. The City will commence plowing operations when snowfall reaches four inches. Trenton residents are required to move their vehicles from snow-emergency routes as required by City Ordinance 14-2.10.
Alternative parking is available at public school parking lots for the duration of the storm. For a list of snow routes and available parking lots, visit www.trentonnj.org/snow.
Residents should sign up for the City’s Emergency Broadcast System to receive updates on when to move their cars to alternative parking lots, when to return them to the street and if trash collection will be cancelled, among other important information:
To receive text alerts, text ‘Trenton411’ to 99411.
To receive voice message alerts, sign up at trentonnj.org/reverse911.
While the city will send robocalls and text alerts before plowing begins, residents are encouraged to move their vehicles off snow routes before it starts snowing.
Starting at 6:00 p.m. TPD patrol officers will begin driving through neighborhoods and using their public address systems to remind residents to move their vehicles before plowing begins.
Residents who do not comply will have their vehicles towed at their expense. Residents whose vehicles are towed can contact the Trenton Police Department non-emergency telephone number at (609) 989-4170.
Single individuals can go to the Rescue Mission on 89 Ewing Street, which can be reached at (609) 695-1436.
Starting at 8:00 p.m. tonight, families that need a warming center can go to the Jennye Stubblefield Center on 301 Prospect St or the Sam Naples Senior Center on 611 Chestnut Ave. Transportation can be arranged if necessary by calling 609-989-3462.
The City also reminds residents to keep the following numbers nearby during the storm:
Tenants who have no heat and cannot reach their landlord should call (609) 989-3560 and leave a message. An inspector from the City’s Department of Inspections will return their call.
Residents that need emergency assistance should dial 911. Residents that need non-emergency assistance, can reach the Trenton Police Department at (609) 989-4170.
Power outages should be reported to PSE&G at 1-(800) 436-PSEG.
Downed trees, flooding, and other weather-related damage should be reported to the Office of Emergency Management at (609) 989-4200.
DPW Director Onitiri walking Mayor Gusciora though the new snow vehicle’s featuresDPW began laying down brine and prepping salt vehicles early this morningTrenton has plenty of salt but can contract for more if needed
I counted 11+ lights out at Mercer County Skating Center. The + is because it would have been 12 but one light came back on but and was dim. The old lights appear to be around 1,000-watts each and should be replaced with a more environmentally friendly option such as LED that would use a lot less power and save on the electric bill.
January 6, 2022
OPINION-EDITORIAL:
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Recently MidJersey.News has covered the “Bridge to Nowhere” railroad bridge replacement project Mercer County is spending $1.88 Million Dollars on a railroad bridge that spans Parkside Avenue in the City of Trenton. That taxpayer waste will replace an abandoned railroad bridge that goes nowhere with private property on each side that links some of the worst crime sections in the City of Trenton. There are many crimes, and several homicides are in the area every year. Just go down the list of some of the 80 homicides Trenton has had in the past two years. We agree that the bridge needed to be removed since it was a hazard to motorists not only by falling down but a place for crime and other hazards. Upon inspection of the area mattresses, chairs, empty liquor containers and even discarded condoms were found at that bridge prior to demolition. Area residents and motorists have reported people used to throw items off the bridge to the roadway below. The bridge should have been removed but not replaced with another bridge that will go nowhere on the abandoned rail line that is marked private property. There are better uses in Mercer County for $1.88 Million Dollars.
For example, last night at a high school hockey game at the Mercer County Skating Center it was observed that the areas over the ice were darker than normal. Looking up at the lights I counted 12 lights out at first, while counting again one light came back on but was dim leaving 11 lights out. The lights appear to be an old style 1,000-watt type light (could be more or less wattage but that is common in this type of use). There is really no excuse to not have those lights working in the middle of hockey season, plus all the other events held at the Mercer County Skating Center.
Mercer County likes to promote and say it is for the environment, but the lights burn most of the day at an estimated 1,000 watts each. A quick Internet search revealed that there are reasonably priced LED retrofit kits available that are cost effective and would burn around 250 watts each saving 750 watts per light all day and night long during the winter season. The savings from less energy use would quickly pay for the retrofitting or replacement of the lights by saving money on the electric bill.
Repair, retrofit or replacement something needs to be done. Hopefully, it is the more environmentally sound option.
TRENTON – Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck announced today that the Division on Civil Rights (DCR) has found probable cause against two employers in disability-discrimination cases. Both cases involve allegations that employers discriminated against employees on the basis of disability, as well as leave time taken in connection with their disabilities.
In one case, DCR found probable cause against the Mansfield Township School District in Burlington County for allegedly violating New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD) by denying a disability accommodation for a fifth-grade science teacher who had returned to work after taking leave to undergo cancer treatment. DCR did not find probable cause, however, regarding the 57-year-old teacher’s claim of discrimination on the basis of age.
In the other case, DCR found probable cause against Laurel Brook Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, a subacute rehabilitative center and skilled nursing facility in Mount Laurel. Laurel Brook is accused of violating the LAD by firing one of its longtime cooks after she took extended leave — first to deal with depression, and subsequently to undergo lung surgery.
“We are committed to protecting the right of all New Jersey workers to an inclusive and discrimination-free workplace,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “Our Division on Civil Rights takes every discrimination complaint seriously, and will hold accountable employers who violate the law.”
“The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination requires employers to provide a reasonable accommodation to employees with a disability,” said DCR Deputy Director Rosemary DiSavino. “These cases serve as a reminder both that leave may constitute a reasonable accommodation, even when an extension of leave is needed because of multiple disabilities, and that an employee with a disability may require a workplace accommodation once they return to work.”
A Finding of Probable Cause does not represent final adjudication of a case. Rather, it means DCR has concluded its preliminary investigation and determined there is sufficient evidence to support a reasonable suspicion the LAD has been violated.
Mansfield School District
In this case, DCR found probable cause to support allegations by the complainant, a longtime elementary school science teacher, that the Mansfield School District denied her a reasonable accommodation for her disability and discriminated against her “based on disability and/or in retaliation for taking medical leave for her cancer treatment.”
In November 2019 the teacher, who had taught only science to fifth-grade students for most of the past decade, took a medical leave of absence to undergo treatment for Stage 3 ovarian cancer.
Upon her return to work in 2020, the teacher was informed she was being reassigned for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year to teach fourth-grade, where she would be required to teach four subjects (math, language arts, social studies and science) instead of one.
The Law Against Discrimination requires an employer to provide a reasonable accommodation to an employee with a disability, so long as doing so would not impose an undue burden on the employer’s operations. It also prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee for requesting or utilizing a reasonable accommodation, including a leave of absence.
Upon learning of her reassignment, the teacher asked to remain in her role as a fifth-grade science teacher, explaining that her reassignment would be incompatible with her disability, and potentially harmful to her recovery from cancer.
Specifically, the teacher cited the stress of learning to teach three new subjects at a new grade level, and noted that her new fourth-grade classroom assignment would place her farther away from a faculty restroom. She explained that the restroom access issue was of concern due to unresolved complications from her surgery.
To support her request, the teacher submitted notes from three different medical providers, including her oncologist’s office, family physician’s office and surgeon’s office. All three medical notes advised that the stress of her reassignment had the potential to impact her recovery from cancer. The surgeon’s office note also advised that her condition required “close proximity to a restroom.”
Despite the woman’s condition and supporting medical provider notes, Mansfield schools declined to reconsider the teacher’s reassignment for the 2020-21 school year. The teacher filed her complaint with DCR on October 6, 2020, alleging in part that Mansfield Schools removed her from her fifth-grade teaching position and reassigned her to the fourth grade because of her disability and/or because she was returning from using a medical leave, and put, a less-qualified teacher without a disability, in the fifth grade in her place.
During DCR’s investigation, Mansfield School District officials noted that they provided additional classroom support to the reassigned teacher in the form of mentors and co-teachers. They also denied that the teacher’s reassignment was an adverse employment action, calling it a lateral transfer that did not result in a material change to the complainant’s salary, benefits or status.
The school district also claimed that the complainant was best qualified to fill a fourth-grade teaching vacancy created by the move of another teacher to an administrative position.
Notwithstanding the school district’s claims, the Partial Finding of Probable Cause announced today found that administrators had multiple alternatives to reassigning the cancer-stricken teacher from her long-held fifth-grade science teaching spot to a new grade level.
The Partial Finding of Probable Cause also notes that transitioning to an unfamiliar assignment after having undergone surgery and months of chemotherapy for an advanced form of cancer had in fact caused the reassigned teacher “a great deal of stress and negatively impacted her health.”
In addition, the finding document observes that the complainant’s new classroom assignment “still required her to walk several hundred feet to the closest restroom – a significant distance for one with urinary issues or bladder weakness.”
Based on DCR’s preliminary investigation, the Partial Finding of Probable Cause states, it appears the Mansfield School District “failed to adequately accommodate Complainant’s medically-supported needs for a low-stress return to teaching due to the fragile state of her recovery, and for a classroom in close proximity to a restroom due to the after effects of her treatment.”
partial-fpc-mansfield-school_redactedDownload Facebook image from Mansfield Township School District
Laurel Brook
In this case DCR found probable cause to support the complainant’s allegations that Laurel Brook unlawfully fired a longtime employee after the worker took nearly six months off to deal first with depression and then with surgery to remove a growth from her lung.
In her DCR complaint, the worker alleged that her firing after nearly eight years as a cook at Laurel Brook amounted to refusal by the facility to provide a reasonable accommodation for her disabilities.
According to the complainant, Laurel Brook verbally approved her request to take medical leave for a period of months to address “major depression,” and subsequently approved an extension of her leave to accommodate having a hamartoma removed from her lung. (Laurel Brook denies ever having provided leave approval.)
Upon contacting Laurel Brook about returning to work months later, the worker told DCR, she was advised there was no longer a job for her because she had failed to submit the paperwork required to document her need for medical leave.
Specifically, the woman was told her leave had not been approved and that she was therefore considered “resigned” after declining to submit forms required under the Federal Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
In its investigation, DCR determined the fired worker did, in fact, fail to fill out FMLA paperwork. The apparent reason was that the woman was confused by having already filled out separate paperwork required to claim temporary state disability benefits through Standard Benefit Administrators – a private, contracted insurance carrier that processes disability claims for client companies.
In issuing a Finding of Probable Cause, however, DCR noted that the worker’s failure to recognize a distinction between the disability paperwork she’d already completed and her need to fill out separate FMLA paperwork was “ultimately immaterial” and did not relieve Laurel Brook of its obligations under the New Jersey LAD.
DCR’s investigation included a review of multiple documents – including reports written by mental health providers and letters written by the worker’s thoracic surgeon – that were either submitted to Laurel Brook, or sent to Standard Benefit Administrators and copied to Laurel Brook officials.
These documents provided Laurel Brook “a stream of information” about the woman’s disabilities that evidenced her medical need to take leave, the Finding of Probable Cause notes, and triggered Laurel Brook’s obligation under the LAD to “enter into an interactive process to determine whether and how the employee may be reasonably accommodated.”
fpc_laurel-brook-rehab_redactedDownload Facebook image from Laurel Brook Rehabilitation & Health Care Center
To view a Fact Sheet on disability discrimination and the rights of people with disabilities in employment, housing, education, etc., under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination go to: https://www.nj.gov/lps/dcr/downloads/fact-Disability-Discrimination.pdf
People with disabilities who believe their rights under the LAD have been violated can file a complaint with DCR by visiting https://bias.njcivilrights.gov/ or calling 1-833-NJDCR4U (833-653-2748).
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP (MERCER)– Multiple people were injured after a crash involving two cars, Saturday afternoon.
The crash happened just before 5:00 pm at the intersection of West Park Avenue and Lafayette Avenue. Hamilton firefighters were dispatched to the scene for possible entrapment. Crews arrived and performed a “door pop” to free the a from the vehicle. Two people were transported to the hospital.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police Department Detective Lieutenant Bethesda Stokes reported that there was a shooting early this morning in the area of 1 Mechanics Avenue at 12:31 a.m. One person was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center by personal vehicle with a non-life-threating shot to the leg. Two vehicles were also struck by gunfire in the area. No further details are available at this time.
The shooting is being investigated by the Shooting Response Team.
Kellen Joseph Bischoff age 19 of Manahawkin, NJ died Saturday November 12, 2022. Kellen was a lifelong resident of Manahawkin and graduate from Southern Regional High School class of 2022. A member of the National Honor Society and the Southern Regional Rams wrestling team, his fun-loving personality was infectious and left an impression on all who knew him. Kellen recently started to follow his passion for music with Full Sail University and the sound of his drums could be heard echoing across the winds of Ocean Acres. Continue to pound those skins our mighty Irish warrior and we will be listening and we will hear you.
He is survived by his parents Patty (nee: Flanagan) and Mike Bischoff of Manahawkin, beloved twin brother Nathaniel & little sister Raegan, and his dogs Sullivan and Finnegan. Also, surviving are his cherished aunts, uncles and cousins.
A memorial gathering will take place on Sunday, November 20, 2022 from 2pm to 6pm with a blessing service, 6pm at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home, 573 Mill Creek Road, Manahawkin, NJ 08050.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in his memory to one of the following organizations: www.PointerRescue.org, www.HappyPawsRescue.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.StJude.org
MEMORIAL GATHERING
SundayNovember 20, 20222:00 PM to 6:00 PMMaxwell-Tobie Funeral Home & Cremation Service, LLC – Manahawkin573 Mill Creek Road
A Burlington County, New Jersey, man today admitted stealing more than $350,000 from a special needs trust, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Eugene Young, 69, of Mount Holly, New Jersey, pleaded guilty by video conference before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an information charging him with one count of wire fraud.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
A special needs trust was established to provide for the supplemental care, maintenance, support, and education of a disabled individual and, in December 2017, had more than $1 million in assets in two bank accounts. In December 2017, Young caused the trust’s trustee, a senior citizen, to execute a power of attorney appointing him as the trustee’s agent.
Young used the power of attorney to gain access to the trust’s bank accounts and, between December 2017 and June 2019, used a variety of means to divert funds from the trust. Young used a debit card associated with the bank accounts to make more than 650 purchases and approximately 200 ATM withdrawals. He also wrote checks from the accounts to himself, made other withdrawals from the accounts, and cashed portions of annuity checks that were the property of the trust. The funds were not used for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiary, as required by the terms of the trust, but rather for Young’s personal use. Young misappropriated more than $350,000 from the trust before his scheme was discovered.
The wire fraud charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain to the defendant or twice the gross pecuniary loss to others, whichever is greater. Sentencing is scheduled for June 7, 2021.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of FBI’s Atlantic City Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, special agents of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, and special agents of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Camden.
21-042
Defense counsel: Thomas Young Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Camden
Facebook image from Mansfield Township School District