2024 Democratic Primary Sample Ballots contain what appears to be a political message under the column marked “U.S. President & District Delegates” under the column a box is marked UNCOMMITTED Justice For Palestine, Permanent Ceasefire Now.
If you are wondering about this message, protest and about Vote Uncommitted check out these links: Vote “Uncommitted” for the NJ Democratic Presidential Primary Election and New Jersey Democratic Socialists of America
Check your 2024 Democratic Primary Sample ballots and you will find it in the location shown below:
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Police say that on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m., officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of 2011 Route 37 for the report of a car verse bicyclist. Upon arrival, officers observed a white 2021 Dodge Ram Cargo Van with damage to the front passenger side and extensive damage to the front windshield. Officer’s also observed a male lying on the grass area in front of the plaza and a black electric bike with extensive damage. The driver of the Dodge Ram Cargo Van was identified as, 34-year-old Jack Ravenna of Greenville, South Carolina. Mr. Ravenna did not sustain any injuries as a result of the crash. The rider of the electric bike was identified as, 46-year-old Raymond Santory of Manchester, NJ. Mr. Santory sustained trauma to his right leg and several lacerations to his head and face. Mr. Santory was flown via MEDAVAC, to Jersey Shore University Hospital Trauma Center, in Neptune, NJ to be further elevated for his injuries.
The crash investigation revealed that the Dodge Ram Cargo Van was traveling west on State Highway 37 in the right travel lane. The Dodge Ram Cargo Van traveling west on State Highway 37 was approaching the entrance to 2011 Route 37 and began to make a right turn into the entrance. Mr. Santory was traveling east in the westbound shoulder of State Highway 37 on his electric bike wearing dark clothing and no helmet. Mr. Santory impacted the Dodge Ram Cargo Van on the front passenger side of the vehicle. Mr. Santory was ejected from his bicycle and then impacted the windshield of the vehicle on the passenger side. After initial impact with the Dodge Ram Cargo Van, Mr. Santory and his electric bicycle continued to travel east approximately 10 feet before coming to final rest on the grass section of the plaza.
Assisting at the scene were EMT’s from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Medical Services, and Paramedics from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing, but at this point, the failure to ride a bicycle with the flow of traffic and the use of dark clothing are the primary contributing factors in the crash. This crash is being investigated by Patrolman Conner Yatauro of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Police say that on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m., officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of 2011 Route 37 for the report of a car verse bicyclist. Upon arrival, officers observed a white 2021 Dodge Ram Cargo Van with damage to the front passenger side and extensive damage to the front windshield. Officer’s also observed a male lying on the grass area in front of the plaza and a black electric bike with extensive damage. The driver of the Dodge Ram Cargo Van was identified as, 34-year-old Jack Ravenna of Greenville, South Carolina. Mr. Ravenna did not sustain any injuries as a result of the crash. The rider of the electric bike was identified as, 46-year-old Raymond Santory of Manchester, NJ. Mr. Santory sustained trauma to his right leg and several lacerations to his head and face. Mr. Santory was flown via MEDAVAC, to Jersey Shore University Hospital Trauma Center, in Neptune, NJ to be further elevated for his injuries.
The crash investigation revealed that the Dodge Ram Cargo Van was traveling west on State Highway 37 in the right travel lane. The Dodge Ram Cargo Van traveling west on State Highway 37 was approaching the entrance to 2011 Route 37 and began to make a right turn into the entrance. Mr. Santory was traveling east in the westbound shoulder of State Highway 37 on his electric bike wearing dark clothing and no helmet. Mr. Santory impacted the Dodge Ram Cargo Van on the front passenger side of the vehicle. Mr. Santory was ejected from his bicycle and then impacted the windshield of the vehicle on the passenger side. After initial impact with the Dodge Ram Cargo Van, Mr. Santory and his electric bicycle continued to travel east approximately 10 feet before coming to final rest on the grass section of the plaza.
Assisting at the scene were EMT’s from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Medical Services, and Paramedics from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing, but at this point, the failure to ride a bicycle with the flow of traffic and the use of dark clothing are the primary contributing factors in the crash. This crash is being investigated by Patrolman Conner Yatauro of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)– A Mercer County, New Jersey, man was arrested Friday night for transmitting via the internet a post containing threats to kill white people, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Joshua Cobb, 23, of Trenton, New Jersey, was arrested and charged by complaint with one count of transmitting a threat in interstate and foreign commerce. He is scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Rukhsanah Singh in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Dec. 17, 2022, Cobb used a social media application to post a message, stating:
• I want to cause mayhem on the white community. The reason i specifically want to target white people is because as a black male, they will NEVER understand my struggles. Same way I will never understand their struggles, but I don’t care to. I want to erase them. All of them really, but in this case as many as I possibly can. As of today I have officially began planning my attack. It is going to take place in 2023 in the state of New Jersey, I have not chosen a exact date but I am going to be sure it is close to an important holiday to their race. I have a location in mind already which I have frequented for the past year and I am certain nobody there is armed to be able to stop me from spraying them to the ground. I have already acquired 2 of the 4 firearms I plan to use for my attack, and I also know my entry and exit points already after the mayhem.
Following this post, in April and May 2023, Cobb made several additional posts on another social media application, in which he discussed his hopes of progressing into a serial killer, stating:
• Imagine the rush you’d feel while shooting some sh*t up. Probably could get literally high off the adrenaline alone. I’d probably OD on my own adrenaline after the 10th body goes down.
• 100% someday. Just not yet thought. I want to continue training and buying more ammunition.
• Tbh I hope I do progress into a serial killer because I f*cking hate life man… But one day everyone will suffer. I promise I will make everyone feel my f*ucking pain. My deep, sincere, raw, & sharp pain.
• There is no way out for me. The only way out is bloodshed.
• Just wait man. Remember [my username]. [I] will leave clues when im done.
• I’m just leaving evidence for whoever investigates my case.
Cobb joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2023 and began basic training in June 2023. Cobb was stationed in California until his recent discharge.
In statements to law enforcement, Cobb admitted to writing the above-described posts and provided detailed information on locations he had considered as possible targets for his attack, including a Jersey Strong gym and an Aldi grocery store in Robbinsville, New Jersey. Cobb also discussed his access to guns and idolized other mass shooters.
A lawful search of Cobb’s cell phone revealed additional notes from April and May 2023 expressing Cobb’s homicidal ideations, stating:
• It’s all a f*cking game and you all are going to die. I currently lack the means necessary to kill as many as I intend to but one day I will have the available resources (finance) to purchase the appropriate weaponry for my killing(s).
• All my life I have been doubyed… Ive been taken as the joke… ive been f*cked around with… well now its my turn. I am going to kill one of you mother*ckers I f*cking hate humanity. All of you f*cking duck and I don’t give a single f*ck about any of you though I may appear I do.
• Im ready to grt to the good part of my story where I start taking you mother f*ckers out and killing you all… My rampage will soon happen… I plan to now continue accumulating the necessary equipment needed to execute. Once all equipment is in, time will then tell. You will all die.
• I hate all of this sh*t and I feel like my only way out of the pain and suffering is by exploding. So I await… I await that moment so I can make those moments final. For whomever… myself or a victim.
Cobb’s phone also contained notes on how to bring guns into New Jersey.
The charge of transmitting a threat in interstate and foreign commerce is punishable by a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents and task force officers of the FBI Newark Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to the arrest. He also thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, under the direction of U.S. Attorney E. Martin Estrada, agents of the FBI Field Office in Los Angeles, California, under the direction of Acting Assistant Director in Charge Mehtab Syed; the Hamilton Police Division, under the direction of Chief Kenneth R. DeBoskey; the Robbinsville Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael K. Polaski; and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vera Varshavsky of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
24-168
Defense counsel: Saverio A. Viggiano Esq. and Tatiana S. L. Nnaji Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defenders
UPDATE: NWS Mount Holly/Philadelphia reports cloudy skies though morning and it is not looking good to view the aurora tonight or tomorrow morning.
Viewing an aurora photos vs eye:
Many people have asked can you see the aurora with your eyes and the answer is yes you can. You don’t need a camera to see the aurora with your eyes but cameras capture it better. Modern cameras capture more of the light and color that is available. You can see the aurora with your naked eye but colors won’t be as vivid or bright as compared to a modern camara.
Camera phone:
Above: Two photos were taken with a Samsung S24 Ultra phone camera hand held. Camera data: Galaxy S24 Ultra, f-stop 1.7, Exposure time 1/2 second, ISO-3200, Focal length 6mm or 35mm focal length 23mm. Was used in normal mode that activated night mode.
Full frame DSLR Camera:
Above: Two photos taken with a Canon 5D Mark IV DSLR camera on a tripod. Camera data: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Exposure time 2 seconds, ISO 1600, f-stop 2.8, focal length 16mm,
UPDATE: Several asked by direct messages what time and location to view the aurora and there is no specific time or place. There are multiple things that need to align for the aurora to be visible. I use the following methods to determine the best chance to see an aurora.
We need a geomagnetic storm from the sun strong enough that you can see the aurora this far south and we have that for the next 24 hours or so.
You need to plan ahead and find a dark place with very little light pollution as possible and a clear view to the north sky. Usually elevated rural areas, parks without lights, open fields, work best for that. Use a compass or compass application to find North. The best time is during complete darkness and this time of year most likley after 10:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.
A good weather forecast with clear skies. This morning the sky was clear just before sunrise and it made the aurora visible. Prior to 4:00 a.m. the sky was full of clouds and it was not visible in our area but it was visible in other places around the world that had clear skies.
The next thing you need to do is check with the SPACE WEATHER PREDICTION CENTER and look at the forecast. The forecast has a lead time of 28-minutes. There is usually a red line shown and areas above the red line could see the aurora. There is also green and red showing where the aurora is predicted to be look in that direction.
Go to your dark place let your eyes adjust to the darkness, confirm clear skies and a view to the north using the compass. If the aurora is not visible relax and wait and hopefully you will see it. Sometimes the aurora arrives in waves.
You also need some luck, out of the past 10+ predictions for NJ, this morning was the first I have ever seen an aurora in New Jersey. I have been above the redline shown on the prediction maps before and have not seen the aurora in NJ until this morning. The last aurora I seen was in Vermont two years ago.
Something that is nice to have is a red flashlight. White light will screw up your night vision so avoid regular flashlights if possible while in the field. When you use red flashlights it takes less time for your eyes to readjust to the darkness. According to the National Park Service, “It is an interesting trait that deep red lights do not trigger the neutralization of the rhodopsin, so astronomers and safety officials use red lights for night lighting to allow night vision to continue.”
Good luck finding the aurora tonight and tomorrow night. If that does not work out many take trips to Iceland to see the aurora during the early spring, late fall and winter months when there is longer darkness. Trips to Iceland in the summer have daylight 24/7 and the aurora is not usually seen during the summer. When I was in Vermont I seen an aurora at night in August 2022 a friend was in Iceland at the same time could not see the aurora because it was daylight for close to 24 hours during that time of year.
Update: As of 6:00 p.m. GOES-EAST Satellite is showing cloud cover that will most likely increase overnight. National Weather Service Mount Holly/Philadelphia reports Showers likely, mainly after 5am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 47. We need a mostly clear view to the northern sky. If this does not happen tonight Sunday night may be good since there are still active X-Class Flares from the sun and the aurora should continue to be active. The Space Weather Prediction Center issued a Geomagnetic Storm Watch for May 12, 2024 see below:
SPACE WEATHER PREDICTION CENTER
Tomorrow: SEVERE AND EXTREME (G4-G5) GEOMAGNETIC STORMS LIKELY ON 12 MAY 2024
published: Saturday, May 11, 2024 17:54 UTC
Another series of CMEs associated with flare activity from Region 3664 over the past several days are expected to merge and arrive at Earth by midday (UTC) on 12 May. Periods of G4-G5 (Severe-Extreme) geomagnetic storms are likely to follow the arrival of these CMEs.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–UPDATE: NOAA NWS Space Weather Prediction Center reports that X-Class Flares continue to occur making tonight another good viewing opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis Northern Lights over New Jersey.
The photos from this morning were taken with a Canon 5D MKIV SLR camera with a very wide 2.8f lens, some photos were even taken with a Samsung S24 Ultra and were good out of camera and phone.
The best way to capture the aurora is to use a SLR or mirrorless camera with a tripod if you do not have one of the latest Samsung or Apple phones should do. Get to a dark location away from city lights as much as possible. You should have a compass or compass application on your phone and find North. Once you find North look in that direction and you will need clear skies or at least broken clouds to see the aurora. Point your camera in that direction.
Camera settings this morning was 1/2 second at 2.8f at iso 3,200 on the Canon 5D Mark IV and some of the photos were adjusted a little depending on the sky. On the Samsung S24 Ultra night mode was used. There was no tripod used for the cell phone and there is some slight movement seen in the stars when using the camera phone. Tonight, if the skies are clear I will bring a second tripod for the phone camera.
NOAA 30-minute forecast link:
AURORA – 30 MINUTE FORECAST
For tonight some have been asking and it is looking like it might be cloudy but there are some holes in the clouds so hopefully we see something.
GOES-EAST Satellite check images on the link below for cloud cover.
GOES-East – Continental U.S. (CONUS) Images
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, was seen over New Jersey early this morning after skies cleared last night. Pillars of light in purple, red and green were observed this morning just before dawn.
According to NOAA we are experiencing the aurora because of large Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) on the Sun. They are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona.
If you missed this morning’s aurora you should have another opportunity tonight.
MidJersey.news has had reports of the aurora seen as far south as Florida.
Photo of the sun this morning May 11, 2024
Large sunspots can be seen on the sun this morning causing X-class solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) creating conditions for the aurora.
According to NASA, Flares happen when the powerful magnetic fields in and around the sun reconnect. They’re usually associated with active regions, often seen as sun spots, where the magnetic fields are strongest. Flares are classified according to their strength. The smallest ones are B-class, followed by C, M and X, the largest. X-class flare like that can create long lasting radiation storms, which can harm satellites and even give airline passengers, flying near the poles, small radiation doses. X flares also have the potential to create global transmission problems and world-wide blackouts.
YET ANOTHER X-CLASS FLARE!
Space Weather Message Code: ALTK08Serial Number: 37Issue Time: 2024 May 11 0944 UTCALERT: Geomagnetic K-index of 8, 9- Threshold Reached: 2024 May 11 0940 UTCSynoptic Period: 0900-1200 UTC Active Warning: YesNOAA Scale: G4 - SevereNOAA Space Weather Scale descriptions can be found atwww.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanationPotential Impacts: Area of impact primarily poleward of 45 degrees Geomagnetic Latitude.Induced Currents - Possible widespread voltage control problems and some protective systems may mistakenly trip out key assets from the power grid. Induced pipeline currents intensify.Spacecraft - Systems may experience surface charging; increased drag on low earth orbit satellites, and tracking and orientation problems may occur.Navigation - Satellite navigation (GPS) degraded or inoperable for hours.Radio - HF (high frequency) radio propagation sporadic or blacked out. Aurora - Aurora may be seen as low as Alabama and northern California.
According to NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center:
Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) are large expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona. They can eject billions of tons of coronal material and carry an embedded magnetic field (frozen in flux) that is stronger than the background solar wind interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) strength. CMEs travel outward from the Sun at speeds ranging from slower than 250 kilometers per second (km/s) to as fast as near 3000 km/s. The fastest Earth-directed CMEs can reach our planet in as little as 15-18 hours. Slower CMEs can take several days to arrive. They expand in size as they propagate away from the Sun and larger CMEs can reach a size comprising nearly a quarter of the space between Earth and the Sun by the time it reaches our planet.
The more explosive CMEs generally begin when highly twisted magnetic field structures (flux ropes) contained in the Sun’s lower corona become too stressed and realign into a less tense configuration – a process called magnetic reconnection. This can result in the sudden release of electromagnetic energy in the form of a solar flare; which typically accompanies the explosive acceleration of plasma away from the Sun – the CME. These types of CMEs usually take place from areas of the Sun with localized fields of strong and stressed magnetic flux; such as active regions associated with sunspot groups. CMEs can also occur from locations where relatively cool and denser plasma is trapped and suspended by magnetic flux extending up to the inner corona – filaments and prominences. When these flux ropes reconfigure, the denser filament or prominence can collapse back to the solar surface and be quietly reabsorbed, or a CME may result. CMEs travelling faster than the background solar wind speed can generate a shock wave. These shock waves can accelerate charged particles ahead of them – causing increased radiation storm potential or intensity.
Important CME parameters used in analysis are size, speed, and direction. These properties are inferred from orbital satellites’ coronagraph imagery by SWPC forecasters to determine any Earth-impact likelihood. The NASA Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) carries a coronagraph – known as the Large Angle and Spectrometric Coronagraph (LASCO). This instrument has two ranges for optical imaging of the Sun’s corona: C2 (covers distance range of 1.5 to 6 solar radii) and C3 (range of 3 to 32 solar radii). The LASCO instrument is currently the primary means used by forecasters to analyze and categorize CMEs; however another coronagraph is on the NASA STEREO-A spacecraft as an additional source.
Imminent CME arrival is first observed by the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) satellite, located at the L1 orbital area. Sudden increases in density, total interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) strength, and solar wind speed at the DSCOVR spacecraft indicate arrival of the CME-associated interplanetary shock ahead of the magnetic cloud. This can often provide 15 to 60 minutes advanced warning of shock arrival at Earth – and any possible sudden impulse or sudden storm commencement; as registered by Earth-based magnetometers.
Important aspects of an arriving CME and its likelihood for causing more intense geomagnetic storming include the strength and direction of the IMF beginning with shock arrival, followed by arrival and passage of the plasma cloud and frozen-in-flux magnetic field. More intense levels of geomagnetic storming are favored when the CME enhanced IMF becomes more pronounced and prolonged in a south-directed orientation. Some CMEs show predominantly one direction of the magnetic field during its passage, while most exhibit changing field directions as the CME passes over Earth. Generally, CMEs that impact Earth’s magnetosphere will at some point have an IMF orientation that favors generation of geomagnetic storming. Geomagnetic storms are classified using a five-level NOAA Space Weather Scale. SWPC forecasters discuss analysis and geomagnetic storm potential of CMEs in the forecast discussion and predict levels of geomagnetic storming in the 3-day forecast.
If you missed this morning’s aurora you should have another opportunity tonight. The following links will be helpful for those trying see Aurora Borealis tonight:
SPACE WEATHER PREDICTION CENTER AURORA DASHBOARD (EXPERIMENTAL) https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/communities/aurora-dashboard-experimental
NOAA 30-minute forecast link:
AURORA – 30 MINUTE FORECAST
AURORA VIEWLINE FOR TONIGHT AND TOMORROW NIGHT (EXPERIMENTAL)
Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis as seen from the Robbinsville – Allentown, New Jersey area. (The earlier set of photos had wrong date posted. Photos were taken around 4:30 a.m. in Robbinsville – Allentown area May 11, 2024.)
Today’s Bill Signing Delivers on Governor’s Promise & Continues the Murphy Administration’s Record of Leading the Nation on Gun Safety
December 22, 2022
SCOTCH PLAINS – Governor Phil Murphy today signed A4769/S3214, delivering on the promise he made in the immediate aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision when he unveiled a comprehensive legislative proposal to maintain New Jersey’s status as a model for gun safety by strengthening restrictions for who is eligible for a public carry permit, and establishing a list of places where people with carry permits cannot bring their firearms.
In June, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the N.Y. State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen case that it is impermissible to require applicants in New York to show “proper cause” to carry a handgun in public, which had the effect of invalidating New Jersey’s longstanding laws restricting public carry to those who could demonstrate a “justifiable need”. Less than 24 hours later, Governor Murphy unveiled a comprehensive proposal that, consistent with Bruen, would strengthen the statutory disqualifiers for those eligible for a carry permit, while significantly expanding the list of sensitive places where individuals cannot carry firearms.
“Today’s bill signing is the culmination of months of negotiations between this Administration and our partners in the Legislature, delivering on the promise I made this summer to keep New Jersey safe in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s awful decision,” said Governor Murphy. “While I strongly disagree with that decision, we must abide by it, and today’s law fully respects the Second Amendment while keeping guns out of the wrong hands and preventing them from proliferating in our communities. I am proud to sign this commonsense legislation which prohibits carrying guns in sensitive places, including our daycares, hospitals, libraries, and stadiums.”
Under the law signed today, the list of sensitive places where concealed carry is not permissible includes the following three categories (a complete list is included in the law):
High-density locations
Entertainment venues, including stadiums, arenas, amusement parks, casinos, racetracks, and publicly owned libraries and museum
Youth sporting events and other recreational facilities, such as public parks, beaches, and playground
Bars, restaurants where alcohol is served, and any other locations that serve alcohol for on-premises consumption
Airports and public transportation hubs
Locations with vulnerable populations
Schools, colleges, and universities
Daycare and child-care facilities
Hospitals and health care facilities
Long-term care facilities and nursing homes
Correctional facilities, juvenile justice facilities, and halfway houses
Homeless shelters
Locations with governmental and First Amendment activity
Polling places
Courthouses
Law enforcement stations and offices
Government buildings and locations with government meetings
Demonstrations, protests, and licensed public gatherings
In addition to these three categories, this bill sets a default rule that firearms cannot be carried on private property, including homes, businesses, stores, and houses of worship, unless the property owner expressly communicates permission through express consent or specific signage. The only exceptions to these rules are for law enforcement officers or private security guards.
“New Jersey continues to lead the nation in combatting gun violence and demonstrating how commonsense gun laws help keep residents and law enforcement safe,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The legislation signed into law today, strengthens our efforts to keep communities safe by keeping firearms out of the wrong hands and away from sensitive locations, such as where children learn and play. I thank Governor Murphy for taking another strong step forward for gun safety in the wake of recent mass shootings across the country and gun violence here at home. We remain steadfast in protecting New Jerseyans from the epidemic of gun violence while respecting Second Amendment rights.”
In addition to the expanded list of sensitive places, the bill will strengthen permit requirements by expanding ineligibility for a carry permit to the following groups:
Persons with an outstanding arrest warrant for an indictable offense;
Persons subject to certain restraining orders, including persons who have violated either a temporary or a final restraining order;
Persons subject to restraining orders in other jurisdictions;
Persons subject to voluntary admissions to mental institutions or hospitals.
The bill also makes for a more vigorous carry permit application process. Applicants must now include four endorsements of character from non-related persons. Upon submission of their application, applicants and their endorsers must now be interviewed by law enforcement to determine whether the applicant is likely to engage in conduct that would result in harm to themselves or others.Additionally, New Jersey will become the first state in the nation to require all permit carriers to maintain and provide proof of liability insurance with coverage for at least $300,000 on account of injury, death, or damage to property arising out of ownership, maintenance, operation, or use of a firearm.The bill also increases the handgun permit application fee to $25 from the $2 mark, where it has sat since 1966.
“New Jersey continues to be a leader on gun safety with laws that help keep our communities safe,” said Senate President Nicholas Scutari. “This law will help prevent gun violence with common-sense standards to require training, promote gun safety and prevent firearms from being carried into sensitive locations.”
“Designed in response to the US Supreme Court’s Bruen ruling, this common sense law works to protect the public safety of the more than nine million residents of our state,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “By ensuring responsible concealed carry with thorough vetting and appropriate training, we are standing up for victims of gun violence and helping to prevent future tragedies.”
“The decision by the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year stripped away the right for states to regulate who is able to carry concealed weapons in public,” said Senator Greenstein, the chair of the Law and Public Safety Committee. “We must do everything we can to make sure New Jersey families remain safe and protected while enjoying all New Jersey has to offer. This law is a promising step in the right direction.”
“As a recreational hunter, I know that commonsense gun reform doesn’t stop sportsmen like me from continuing traditions that have been passed down through our families for generations,” said Assemblyman Joe Danielsen. “And, as a father, I know how important it is to keep our communities and schools safe. There is nothing at odds with promoting responsible gun ownership, gun safety, gun education, and gun training while upholding the Second Amendment. I am proud to have authored this law that will strike a balance between promoting public safety and allowing people to exercise their Constitutional rights.”
“We continue to deliver on our promise to protect our children and the community by empowering law enforcement with common-sense gun safety laws that also affirm our constitutional commitment to responsible gun ownership,” said Assembly Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald. “This law, made necessary by a recent Supreme Court ruling, ensures New Jersey maintains one of the lowest gun death rates in the nation and continues to be one of the safest to live, work, and raise a family.”
“Responsible concealed carry laws have been in full force and effect in New Jersey for decades,” said Assemblywoman Mila Jasey. “This law restores responsible and reasonable safeguards that will protect our communities, our schools, houses of worship, and other public places.”
“We as a nation have witnessed too many acts of gun violence, more than 500 mass shootings this year alone. It’s imperative that we do everything within our power to keep guns out of the wrong hands,” said Assemblyman John McKeon. “This law sets reasonable requirements on concealed carry in the state.”
“As a member of the AAPI community, a community that has seen a stark rise in hate and bigoted violence, I am proud to be a part of this nationally recognized gun violence prevention law,” said Assemblywoman Ellen J. Park. “This is the right thing to do because it aligns with the values held by the overwhelming majority of New Jerseyans. It’s the right thing to do because protecting our citizens is our moral obligation as public officials. And it’s the right thing to do because in the absence of a functioning federal government, it is important to show the country that New Jersey is here to lead.”
“Whether they are dropping their children off at school or going to a concert, New Jersey residents deserve to feel safe from senseless gun violence,” said Assemblywoman Annette Chaparro. “With this law, we are keeping guns out of the areas where they have the potential to do the most harm.”
“Earlier this year, radical conservatives on the Supreme Court issued a dangerous ruling that undermined many states’ concealed carry laws, including New Jersey’s. Thankfully, Governor Murphy, Senate President Nicholas Scutari, Speaker Craig Coughlin, and the New Jersey legislature stepped up and have taken decisive action to keep Garden State communities safe. We applaud them for their courageous leadership. As study after study has confirmed, having more guns in public places only increases the threat to public safety and the likelihood of violent crime. The comprehensive legislation signed today is a critical step in the right direction. As our nation continues to experience elevated rates of gun violence, we’re grateful for leaders like Governor Murphy who have the courage to act on this life-or-death issue,” said Adam Skaggs, Chief Counsel and Policy Director, Giffords Law Center.
“Today is not a day for victory. Today is a solemn recognition of a law that will alleviate a potential increase in violence, injury, or death in N.J. from the increase in concealed handguns anticipated by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that has usurped N.J.’s former protective law designed for public safety. When public safety is eroded and the use of concealed handguns is increased, there is no chance for nonviolence, only further violence,” said Dolores Phillips, Legislative Director for CeasefireNJ based in Princeton. “The decision for the NJ Democratic leadership to take on a U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruling to reduce its harmfulness and the consequent social anxiety the SCOTUS ruling creates from the relaxing of NJ’s handgun carry standard deserves much praise by those of us seeking a nonviolent society. CeasefireNJ, and all its members that have advocated for gun violence prevention, commends the exemplary leadership of Governor Murphy, Senate President Scutari, Speaker Coughlin, and the legislative sponsorships in the Assembly and Senate for getting this public safety legislation signed into law today. We thank you all.”
“Since the US Supreme Court ruling making concealed carry of guns easier, over 300,000 New Jerseyans have reportedly applied for a permit–compared to only about 500 per year granted previously. This will lead to a Wild West scenario of massive gun proliferation. Already there are many examples of states that allow more concealed carry killing innocents, including children,” said the Rev. Robert Moore, Executive Director of the Coalition for Peace Action, of which Ceasefire NJ is a Project. “Through our Ceasefire NJ Project, we were proud to have worked hard advocating for the bill being signed today, including enabling nearly 600 NJ citizens to contact their state legislators in support. The common sense restrictions in it will make our state safer from the US epidemic of gun violence.”
“New Jersey – my community – is safer today thanks to the tireless work of dedicated activists and committed policymakers who showed up and demanded sensible solutions to reduce gun violence. This call to action culminated in the signing of S3214 and A4769 here today,” said Carole Stiller, President of BRADY New Jersey. “The signing of these bills demonstrates that in the wake of the Supreme Court’s dangerous Bruen decision, it is imperative that states take up the mantle in helping solve gun violence and promoting public safety. However, the fight doesn’t end here, and we must all continue to work together to end this epidemic and protect our communities. It takes all of us.”
“After the Supreme Court’s flawed Bruen decision we were not going to just stand by and allow guns to be carried in places like daycare centers, parks, concert and sporting venues, or train stations,” said Kathleen Dolan, a volunteer with the New Jersey chapter of Moms Demand Action. “Where the Supreme Court failed us — New Jersey lawmakers have succeeded in putting the safety of our communities above anything else. We are proud to have worked with the Legislature to get this bill passed before the New Year and look forward to continuing to take proactive safety measures to protect our state from gun violence.”
PRINCETON, NJ (MERCER)–If you’re a Central Jersey local, the ionic colonnade at Princeton Battlefield State Park is a monument you’ve likely visited or driven past on numerous occasions—but what is it, really?
Choreographer, filmmaker, and Lawrenceville NJ resident Merli V. Guerra presents a groundbreaking new production that answers this question through a creative blending of history, dance, and technology. Now open to the public, “The Time Traveler’s Lens” is an extended reality (XR) immersive performance illuminating the history of this mysterious local landmark.
“As an artist and history-lover, I am constantly finding myself tapping into the hidden layers of a space’s identity, past and present,” says Guerra. “When visiting ruins, I have an urge to physically touch the remnants of stone walls and pillars that hold memories of times past.”
Guerra is a professional dancer and award-winning interdisciplinary artist with a background in ballet, modern, and classical Odissi Indian dance. She is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Luminarium Dance Company—an award-winning contemporary company in Boston, MA—and has performed lead roles with acclaimed companies on tours to India (2007, 2012) and Japan (2009). Guerra is a freelance choreographer, filmmaker, writer, and designer whose works have been presented by 80+ events across the U.S., as well as Argentina, Canada, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. She is currently a Part-Time Lecturer and MFA in Dance candidate at Rutgers University, set to graduate this May.
In March of last year, Guerra began working on her thesis, choosing to highlight the history of the colonnade: “When I began researching the layers of history associated with the colonnade, I questioned how its marble columns might play back these experiential recordings; how the experiences of these stones might translate into human behavior; and how choreographic and virtual tools might be used to immerse viewers in each layer of this site’s identity.”
The culminating production, presented with support from both Rutgers University and Luminarium, publicly launched on Monday and provides viewers with an exciting interactive experience both on and off the park grounds. This site-specific performance features five 360-degree dance films that are viewable as augmented reality (AR) across the battlefield grounds on visitors’ personal mobile devices or as a virtual reality (VR) experience when viewed remotely elsewhere. This immersive, yet Covid-safe, performance invites visitors to become active participants in the colonnade’s history. Shot in 360, no two viewings of this work will ever be alike.
“My mother’s property is within walking distance from the monument. I remember many visits there when I was a child,” says Wendy Lawson, who viewed the work remotely from Massachusetts. “Merli’s work has brought this monument alive again! What fascinating research she uncovered. I got lost in time while watching all the videos!”
“The Time Traveler’s Lens” is accessible via a website (http://luminariumdance.org/time) that can be unlocked for free using passwords found at the Princeton Battlefield State Park or by paying a one-time ticket purchase for infinite remote access. Visitors are encouraged to view these XR films using the free YouTube app on their mobile devices for an immersive 360-degree experience. Visit http://luminariumdance.org/time to learn more.
“In Revolution” from “The Time Traveler’s Lens.” l. to r. Dane Burch and Nikola Palivoda, Luminarium company members. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
Choreographer Merli V. Guerra at the colonnade at Princeton Battlefield State Park with her 360-degree Ricoh Theta camera. Photo: Sean Connolly.
“The Time Traveler’s Lens.” l. to r. Gabriella Ann Boes, Elizabeth Malone, Victoria Kreutzer, and Anna Fredeen, Luminarium company members. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
Choreographer Merli V. Guerra at Princeton Battlefield State Park. Photo: Sean Connolly.
Stephanette Schwartz-Smith and her daughter Anikka experience “The Time Traveler’s Lens” as augmented reality on the grounds of Princeton Battlefield State Park. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora stated, it is with mixed emotions that I acknowledge the closing of the Capital City’s only Starbucks Community Store located on South Warren Street. While saddened by this closure, I want to express my gratitude to Starbucks Corporate for their collaboration with the city throughout this process.
From the outset, our priority has been to ensure that the dedicated Trenton workers impacted by this closure are supported in finding suitable opportunities. I am pleased to report that Starbucks has been proactive in offering these employees positions at other locations within their network, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of our community.
While the closure of the South Warren Street store is indeed a loss, I remain optimistic about the future. The City of Trenton and Starbucks have maintained an open dialogue, exploring potential avenues for future collaboration and investment in our community. Together, we are committed to fostering growth and opportunities for our residents.
I urge our residents to continue supporting local businesses, as they are the lifeblood of our community. As we navigate this transition, let us remain resilient and united in our efforts to build a stronger, more vibrant Trenton downtown for generations to come.
WASHINGTON, DC — Building on an amendment he wrote in 2004 to create a Special Envoy to combat anti-Semitism, this week Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) successfully pushed enactment of his Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act that expands the authority of the office and elevates the Envoy to that of Ambassador-at-Large, granting the position added clout to fight the rise in worldwide anti-Semitism.
“My new law will raise the Special Envoy to the rank of Ambassador-at-large, a high-level position that will allow the Special Envoy to report directly to the Secretary of State,” Rep. Smith said. “The official rank of Ambassador comes with greater seniority and diplomatic access not only here in Washington, but equally important, overseas in dealing with foreign governments. In short, it gives the Special Envoy the clout required do the job more effectively.
“Anti-Semitism is on the rise in many countries around the globe over the past 10 years. We’ve seen members of the Jewish community harassed, intimidated, assaulted and even killed. We’ve seen sacred places like synagogues and graves desecrated. We’ve heard the use of anti-Semitic slurs and threats, and the open targeting of the State of Israel with what the great Soviet refusenik and former religious prisoner Natan Sharansky told me are the ‘three Ds’– demonization, double-standards and de-legitimization of Israel.
“With the rise of on-line anti-Semitism, hate abroad knows no borders and poisons our communities here at home. We need to integrate our efforts both in the United States and abroad to stop the hate and keep our communities safe,” said Smith, a founding member of both the House Anti-Semitism Caucus and the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, which is comprised of legislative-branch members from Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.
The Special Envoy ‘s mission is to combat discrimination and hatred toward Jews, and develop and implement foreign policy to fight anti-Semitism. Under Smith’s new law: the Special Envoy position would also:
be the primary advisor to the U.S. government in monitoring and combating anti-Semitism;
not be saddled with duties irrelevant to combating and anti-Semitism, nor “double-hatted” with other positions or responsibilities that distract from the central focus of anti-Semitism.
Smith was especially grateful to one of his bill’s the 87 co-sponsors, Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL), for working to pass the bipartisan bill, as well as Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jackie Rosen (D-NV) and Senator Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), along with their staffs, for their hard work in securing passage on the Senate side, and numerous Jewish groups who fought hard for this legislation.
Rabbi Aaron Kotler, President and CEO of Beth Medrash Govoha, said, “Congressman Smith has been a world leader in the effort to combat anti-Semitism, keeping the spotlight on the scourge of global hate. In our troubled times, we need his leadership more than ever. Smith led the 2004 Congressional effort to create a U.S. Special Envoy to Combat Anti-Semitism. Now he has strengthened the position of Special Envoy by legislation that accords the Envoy ambassadorial rank. Good people of all faiths owe him a debt of thanks for helping keep racism at bay and for protecting civilized society.”
Nathan Diament, Executive Director for the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center,said, “The Jewish community is very grateful for Rep. Chris Smith’s leadership in getting this legislation enacted. Sadly, we have seen a surge of anti-Semitic incidents around the world in recent years. With the passage of this legislation, Congress is providing powerful new tools to the State Department to lead impactful international efforts to combat what has been aptly called ‘the world’s oldest form of hatred’ and roll back the tide of anti-Jewish hate.”
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
“In Revolution” from “The Time Traveler’s Lens.” l. to r. Dane Burch and Nikola Palivoda, Luminarium company members. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
Choreographer Merli V. Guerra at the colonnade at Princeton Battlefield State Park with her 360-degree Ricoh Theta camera. Photo: Sean Connolly.
“The Time Traveler’s Lens.” l. to r. Gabriella Ann Boes, Elizabeth Malone, Victoria Kreutzer, and Anna Fredeen, Luminarium company members. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
Choreographer Merli V. Guerra at Princeton Battlefield State Park. Photo: Sean Connolly.
Stephanette Schwartz-Smith and her daughter Anikka experience “The Time Traveler’s Lens” as augmented reality on the grounds of Princeton Battlefield State Park. Photo: Merli V. Guerra.
