“Equinor and bp today announced an agreement with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to terminate the Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (OREC) Agreement for the Empire Wind 2 project, an offshore wind project in the US with potential generative capacity of 1,260 MW.“
January 3, 2024
NEW YORK, NY — In a press release today another offshore wind project located off the coast of New Jersey and New York named Empire Wind 2 has been terminated. According to a press release by Equinor and BP-British Petroleum.
The companies say that the decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.
“Commercial viability is fundamental for ambitious projects of this size and scale. The Empire Wind 2 decision provides the opportunity to reset and develop a stronger and more robust project going forward,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas.
The companies did not mention the status of Empire Wind 1 in today’s new release.
More about Empire Wind can be found here.
On October 31, 2023, the Board of Directors of Ørsted, decided to cease the development of U.S. Offshore Projects, Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2 off the coast of New Jersey. Govenor Phil Murphy called that decision by Orsted to abandon its commitments to New Jersey outrageous and called into question the company’s credibility and competence.
BP and Equinor pull out of contract for offshore wind project off Monmouth County coastline
Over-stated value and benefits are exposed by the reality of economic costs, national security risks and environmental dangers
MIDDLETOWN—Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today welcomed news that BP and Equinor have cancelled their contract for the “Empire Wind 2” offshore wind project located off the Monmouth County coastline:
“Just two months after Orsted pulled out of its huge taxpayer-subsidized deal approved by Governor Murphy, BP and Equinor have followed suit by terminating their contract for an offshore wind project off the Monmouth County coastline citing ‘changed economic circumstances on an industry-wide scale.’
The promise of benefits and jobs was always over-hyped and predicated on the backs of ratepayers. Now that taxpayers and boardrooms are getting an honest look, the projects simply don’t measure up to the hype.
According to an Equinor press release, ‘the decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.’
Despite the clear indication that these projects are economically unsustainable and pose serious dangers to our marine environment and national security, President Biden and Governor Murphy have rejected calls for objective studies, doubled down and insisted that these projects must continue—no matter the huge taxpayer subsidies they require and the credible predictions of big increases to ratepayers.
It’s long past time for Biden and Murphy to stop recklessly pushing these unsound and improperly vetted projects and trying to prop them up by irresponsibly throwing billions of US taxpayer dollars at these foreign corporations.
While this terminated contract marks another victory for concerned residents, commercial and recreational fishermen, and the environmentalists who have been working with me to expose the dangers inherent in the massive ocean industrialization of the Jersey Shore, we must continue to fight against Biden and Murphy’s extreme policies and put an end to ocean wind development off our beautiful shore. Enough is enough.”
Full press release from Equinor and BP below:
Equinor and bp today announced an agreement with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to terminate the Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (OREC) Agreement for the Empire Wind 2 project, an offshore wind project in the US with potential generative capacity of 1,260 MW.
This agreement reflects changed economic circumstances on an industry-wide scale and repositions an already mature project to continue development in anticipation of new offtake opportunities. The decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.
Equinor and bp believe offshore wind can be an important part of the energy mix and are committed to maintaining substantial contributions to the state and local economy.
“Commercial viability is fundamental for ambitious projects of this size and scale. The Empire Wind 2 decision provides the opportunity to reset and develop a stronger and more robust project going forward,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas. “We will continue to closely engage our many community partners across the state. As evidenced by the progress at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, our offshore wind activity is ready to generate union jobs and significant economic activity in New York.”
“bp is supportive of NYSERDA’s leadership and commitment to offshore wind, which we believe is a critical part of New York State’s and America’s clean energy future,” said Joshua Weinstein, bp’s president of offshore wind Americas. “Offshore wind can deliver reliable renewable power as well as economic benefits to the state and its communities.”
The Empire Wind 1 and Empire Wind 2 projects recently reached a key federal permitting milestone, having received the federal Record of Decision from BOEM; last month, Empire Wind 1 also received its Article VII Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need in New York.
About Empire Wind
Empire Wind is being developed through a 50-50 joint venture between Equinor and bp. Empire Wind is located 15-30 miles southeast of Long Island and spans 80,000 acres, with water depths of between approximately 75 and 135 feet. The lease was acquired in 2017. The project’s two phases, Empire Wind 1 and 2, have a potential capacity of more than 2 GW (816 + 1,260 MW). www.empirewind.com
About Equinor Renewables Americas
Equinor is one of the largest offshore wind developers in the world. Its work in the United States includes operating two lease areas off New York, Empire Wind and Beacon Wind. Equinor has also been awarded a lease on the Outer Continental Shelf off California. The United States is an attractive growth market for Equinor, with an ambition to install 12-16 GW of renewables capacity globally by 2030. www.equinor.com/NY
About bp
bp’s ambition is to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner, and to help the world get to net zero. We’re transforming bp from an international oil and gas company to an integrated energy company – and America is core to the strategy. bp has a larger economic footprint in the United States than anywhere else in the world, investing more than $145 billion since 2005 and supporting more than 275,000 jobs. For more information on bp in the US, visit www.bp.com/us.
Empire-Wind-1-and-2-Brochure-July-2022Download
Save LBI: “Promises and Realities -Wind Turbine Projects Off LBI Shores”
Are New Jersey’s Windmill Projects Killing The Whales?
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton firefighters responded to 268 Cortland Street yesterday January 1, 2025 around 3:00 p.m. for a fire in a row home. Not much is known about the fire but a second alarm was called before being brought under control. Additional information will be posted when available.
MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Griffin M. Banos of the Monroe Township Police Department, and the New Jersey Department of Treasury, Division of Taxation’s Office of Criminal Investigation announced today that a long-time tax preparer was sentenced after pleading guilty to failure to file a tax return.
In the summer of 2021, authorities received numerous reports of the filing of scores of questionable personal income tax returns on behalf of residents in Middlesex County. Subsequent investigation conducted by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Monroe Township Police Department, and the New Jersey Department of Treasury, Division of Taxation’s Office of Criminal Investigation, revealed that Jerry R. Jones, 82, of Monroe, filed hundreds of income tax returns that were fraudulent and often claimed deductions, business expenses or exemptions to which the taxpayer was not entitled to claim. These fraudulent filings frequently resulted in refunds or underpayment of income tax.
The investigation into Jones’ tax preparation business resulted in the return of an initial indictment by a Middlesex County Grand Jury on August 16, 2022, which charged Jones with second-degree possessing False Government Documents, more specifically, fraudulent birth certificates and a stamp for the United States Internal Revenue Service. These items were recovered from his residence during the execution of a search warrant.
Additional investigation revealed Jones failed to file a tax return on his own behalf for the income he derived from the preparation and filing of other individuals’ tax returns. Jones ultimately pleaded guilty to failure to file a tax return and on March 1, 2024, Jones was sentenced by the Honorable Andrea Carter, J.S.C to a five-year state prison term, which was suspended for Jones to pay the New Jersey Treasury in connection with his tax delinquency. As part of his sentence, Jones agreed not to file tax returns for anyone but himself or provide financial or accounting planning or advice for any other individuals.
Any individuals who utilized the tax related services of Jerry R. Jones are advised to re-examine their prior tax returns for any potential irregularities. Those who need further assistance may contact Detective Marcus Goode of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-4274.
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
March 6, 2024
NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Vincent Sabo of the New Brunswick Police Department announced today that a fatal crash is under investigation in the City of New Brunswick.
Today, March 6, 2024, at 7:08 a.m., authorities responded to Route 1 Northbound near the Goodkind Bridge following the report of a crash. Upon their arrival, authorities located an Infiniti, which had struck a Ford Pickup Truck, killing the driver of the Ford Pickup Truck, Dennis Frick, 65, of Freehold. Frick was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Infiniti was uninjured.
An initial investigation led by Officer Gliottone of the New Brunswick Police Department and Detective Alleva of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that the Infiniti was driving Southbound on Route 1 and lost control of the vehicle and crossing over the median and striking the Ford Pickup Truck that was traveling Northbound on Route 1.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information or video footage is asked to call Officer Gliottone of the New Brunswick Police Department at 732-745-5005 or Detective Alleva of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-4011.
March 6, 2024
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 4, 2024, Ryan Thompson, 35, of Trenton, pled guilty to Manslaughter before the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C., in connection with the death of a 55-year-old male in Berkeley Township on September 29, 2023. At the time of Thompson’s sentencing on May 3, 2024, the State will seek a term of seven years New Jersey State Prison – subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act.
On September 29, 2023, Officers from the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to a residence on Torrey Pines Drive for a report of an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, Officers discovered the body of the victim – already deceased from an apparent drug overdose.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, and Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, revealed that Thompson and his co-defendants, Michael Wormann, 38, of Toms River, and Tina Martinez, 61, of Trenton, were involved in the distribution of fentanyl to the victim on September 28, 2023.
On September 30, 2023, Wormann was initially charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of Fentanyl. He was taken into custody without incident at his residence by Berkeley Township Police Officers, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 17, 2023, Martinez was initially charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. She was taken into custody without incident at her residence in Trenton, transported to New Jersey State Police Headquarters in Trenton, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 20, 2023, Thompson was likewise charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. He turned himself in to Berkeley Township Police Headquarters on that date, and was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail where he has remained since.
Further investigation and toxicology analysis received by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the presence of fentanyl in the victim’s system. Based upon the toxicology analysis, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office opined that the fentanyl found in the victim’s system was the cause of his death. As a consequence, Thompson, Wormann, and Martinez were all charged in connection with the victim’s death on November 14, 2023.
Thompson is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending his sentencing on May 3, 2024. The charges against Wormann and Martinez- who were previously released from the Ocean County Jail as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform – remain pending; the public and press are reminded that at this time, the charges against Wormann and Martinez are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Prosecutor Billhimer commends Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Berkeley Township Police Department, Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Trenton City Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office’s Victim Witness Unit, for their combined and collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately resulting in Thompson’s guilty plea.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
March 6, 2024
PERTH AMBOY, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Morris Habitat for Humanity is preparing to break ground on constructing two single-family homes on Pearl Place, hoping to welcome new families early next year.
The latest Habitat project in the city could not have happened without the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Authority (PARA), which sold two 25-foot by 100-foot lots.
“Our mission is not just about redeveloping large swaths of underused property,” explained PARA Executive Director Tashilee Vazquez. “We are focused on rebuilding neighborhoods and looking for all opportunities. On this small parcel, we can fulfill homeownership for two families. This is a tremendous investment in Perth Amboy and an ideal fit for our mission.”
PARA’s agreement allows for a partnership between Morris Habitat and the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Team for Neighborhood Enterprise and Revitalization (PARTNER), a non-profit that creates housing and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. Morris Habitat and PARTNER are serving as the project redevelopers.
Liz DeCoursey, CEO of Morris Habitat, anticipates a groundbreaking this summer. The three-bedroom homes will ultimately be sold to families who meet low-income guidelines. Still, the new residents must show the ability to pay an affordable mortgage, property taxes, utilities, and all other expenses related to home ownership.
The homeowner selection process will be random, but preferences will be given to veterans and current Perth Amboy Housing Authority residents. Anyone interested in applying for a home should contact Morris Habitat.
The Pearl Place project is the latest venture for Morris Habitat in Perth Amboy, as the non-profit steadily increased its footprint in Middlesex County since it took over the territory in 2020. Homes have already been completed at 440 Lawrie St. and 662 Cortland St., while others are now under construction at 363 Inslee St. and 364 Garretson Ave.
Both Vazquez and DeCoursey expressed their appreciation to Doug Dzema, executive director of PARTNER and the Perth Amboy Housing Authority, for working closely with Morris Habitat, PARA and other program supporters to build quality, affordable homes in the city.
Morris Habitat has precise stipulations for the homes it builds. For example, all must be designed as “user friendly” as possible, with Energy Star appliances, maintenance-free materials, a single garage, handicap accessibility, the ability to use side and rear yards for recreation, and plenty of storage space. All homes are for sale; there are no rentals.
“We are excited to see Morris Habitat transform unused and neglected spaces into valuable assets for our residents, thereby enhancing the neighborhoods of Perth Amboy,” said Mayor Helmin Caba of Perth Amboy. “We look forward to working closely with all of our redevelopment partners to turn our collective vision for a rejuvenated city into reality.”
DeCoursey noted Morris Habitat also has plans to serve at least 400 families over the next three years through its home repair and aging-in-place programs. Key team members are PARTNER and the Jewish Renaissance Foundation, leveraging grants to assist residents in two Perth Amboy neighborhoods.
Separately, Morris Habitat is set to begin building 12 homes in Old Bridge, at 200 Laurence Parkway.
Staff from the Perth Amboy Office of Economic & Community Development volunteering at the Inslee Street build of a Morris Habitat home.
March 6, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Daniel Plumacker of the Sayreville Police Department announced that on Friday, March 1, 2024, Kyle Finn, 23, of Sayreville, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the crimes of Aggravated Sexual Assault and Sexual Assault.
On October 13, 2020, Sayreville Police received a report of a sexual assault that occurred at Superhero Schoolhouse, a daycare in the Parlin section of Sayreville. Upon further investigation, led by Detective Matthew Kenney of the Sayreville Police Department and Detective Suzanne Kowalski of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, it was determined that Finn, a former aide at Superhero Schoolhouse, sexually abused multiple child victims at the daycare while they were in his care.
Finn subsequently pled guilty on June 29, 2023, to six counts of first- degree Aggravated Sexual Assault and one count of second-degree Sexual Assault.
On March 1, 2024, Finn was sentenced by the Honorable Pedro J. Jimenez, Jr., J.S.C., to an aggregate term of 40 years in New Jersey State Prison. Finn must serve 85 percent of his sentence before he is eligible for parole. When released, he is subject to Parole Supervision for Life and the registration requirements of Megan’s Law.
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
March 6, 2024
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced yesterday, that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, United States Drug Enforcement Agency-Atlantic City Resident Office, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division and Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Patrol Division and Street Crimes Unit, South Toms River Patrol Division and Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, to conduct a two month-long investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Ocean County area. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified three residences in Brick, Toms River, and South Toms River, as being utilized by Orthis Allen, 33 of Bayville, Lauren Torres and Anthony Martinez, both 23 and of Toms River, and Ashley Banks, 33, of Brick, for the purpose of distributing ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin/fentanyl in Ocean County.
On February 27, 2024, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies established stationary and mobile surveillance on the subject residences. On that date, surveillance units observed Allen and Banks exit the Brick Township residence, enter a 2020 Dodge Durango, and leave the area. A motor vehicle stop was thereafter executed by Officers assigned to the Brick Township Police Department Special Emergency Response Team; Allen and Banks were detained without incident, and ultimately transported to Brick Township Police Headquarters for processing.
Court-authorized search warrants were subsequently executed at the subject residences in Brick, Toms River, and South Toms River. As a result, law enforcement seized 150 suspect ecstasy pills and approximately 41 grams of suspect cocaine from the Brick Township residence. Execution of the search warrant at the Toms River residence resulted in the seizure of 100 wax folds of suspect heroin/fentanyl, 15 suspect ecstasy pills, a digital scale, paraphernalia indicative of drug distribution, and two loaded 9mm firearms – one with a high capacity magazine. Torres and Martinez – who were present at the Toms River residence at the time the search warrant was executed – were transported without incident to Toms River Police Headquarters for processing. The execution of the search warrant at the South Toms River address revealed nothing of evidentiary value.
Allen was charged with Distribution of MDMA, Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Firearm During the Commission of a Narcotics Offense, Being a Certain Person not to Possess a Weapon, and Possession of High Capacity Magazine. Allen is presently lodged in Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Torres was charged with Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Heroin. Torres was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Anthony Martinez was charged with Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute. Martinez was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Banks was charged with Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, and Possession of Cocaine. Banks was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Patrol Division, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Brick Township Police Department Patrol Division, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Brick Township Police Department Special Emergency Response Team, South Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, United States Drug Enforcement Agency-Atlantic City Resident Office, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
March 6, 2024
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka announced yesterday, that a 5-month joint investigation by South Brunswick Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) with assistance from the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office resulted in the arrest of one man and seizure of guns and ammo. “Taking illegal guns off the streets is a top priority by all in law enforcement. This case focused on the illegal trafficking of firearms from other states to New Jersey. It was a total team effort involving federal, county, and local law enforcement that stopped the gun-running operation,” said Hayducka. Detectives developed information about illegal gun sales in central New Jersey. Over weeks, it was determined that Wayne Bagley age 68 of South Brunswick was selling handguns. The investigation found that Bagley would travel to other states and make purchases of handguns at gun shows. He would then transport the firearms back to New Jersey and sell them to people. Throughout the investigation, Bagley traveled to West Virginia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Bagley had been previously denied a permit to purchase firearms in 2023. On Thursday, the Middlesex County Special Operations Response Team (SORT) arrested Bagley as he was driving. They then executed a search warrant at Bagley’s home on Texas Avenue. ATF Special Agents along with detectives recovered 7 firearms and over one thousand rounds of ammunition from his Texas Avenue home. Detectives impounded the vehicle Bagley was driving and executed a second search warrant on Tuesday. Detectives recovered additional ammunition and gun cases. Bagley was charged with multiple violations of the illegal transport and sale of firearms, illegal sale of ammunition, and conspiracy. Bagley was lodged at the Middlesex County Correction Center pending a detention hearing.
South Brunswick investigative team included Sergeant Timothy Hoover, Detective Brian Luck, Detective Rick Delucia, Detective Bryan Garrison, Detective Jamal Benbow, and Sergeant Brady Shelcusky.
Wayne Bagley age 68 of Texas Avenue, South Brunswick.
March 6, 2024
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced yesterday, that Marcus Wright, 27, of Beaufort, South Carolina was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder of an Edison Speedway employee that occurred on December 20, 2018.
On September 12, 2023, Wright was convicted of the murder of John Bertram, 38, of the Fords section of Woodbridge. Wright was also found guilty of armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Olya Quinnam, 26, of Beaufort, South Carolina plead guilty on September 26, 2019, to one count of first-degree armed robbery.
During a 2-week trial that began on September 5, 2023, Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutor Lynne Seborowski and Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutor Caitlin Lavery presented evidence and testimony showing that Wright entered the Edison Speedway Gas station on December 20, 2018, and held the up the clerk, John Bertram, with a handgun. Bertram handed the money that was in the register to Wright; after which Wright fired his weapon, killing Bertram. Quinnam accompanied Wright for the robbery but waited outside as Wright entered the store.
The investigation was led by Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Lieutenant David Abromaitis, Lieutenant James Napp, Sergeant Derek Feuerstein, Sergeant Andrew Winter, Detective James Alleva, and Detective Ben Klein; and Lieutenant Loren Long, Detective Nicholas Bayne, and Officer Robert Bertucci of the Edison Police Department.
On March 4, 2024, Superior Court Judge Andrea G. Carter, sentenced Wright to life in prison without parole for the charge of first-degree Murder. Wright was also sentenced to concurrent sentences on the remaining charges of first-degree Felony Murder, second-degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, first-degree Armed Robbery, second-degree Unlawful Possession of
a Weapon, and second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.
New medical campus will bring world-class care and innovation close to home acrossMonmouth County
June 22, 2023
LONG BRANCH, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Monmouth Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, celebrated the groundbreaking of the Vogel Medical Campus at Tinton Falls on Tuesday. The campus will offer seamless access to surgical and imaging services and comprehensive cancer care together with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“We are proud of the trust and confidence placed in us to transform healthcare in the region through the development of the Vogel Medical Campus,” said Eric Carney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus. “Together, we will continue to work with our patients, families, clinicians and partners to advance healthcare in our communities.”
Monmouth Medical Center has engaged in years of planning to reach this important milestone, working with local community members and partners to develop a new campus that will provide exceptional, patient-centered care close to home for more Monmouth County residents.
“Our collective investment in Monmouth Medical Center, through the Vogel Medical Campus, allows us to expand access to high-quality, equitable care to the residents of Monmouth County and beyond,” said Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer, RWJBarnabas Health. “It is our privilege to have the opportunity to care for the community, and we thank them for trusting us to be their partner in health and wellness.”
The five-story, 150,000-square-foot outpatient center, located at the historic Fort Monmouth Myer Center site, is set to open in 2025 and will honor Fort Monmouth’s legacy of innovation. The campus will leverage the very latest advancements in medical space planning and technology to provide easy access for patients and their loved ones and an ideal space for physicians to deliver the highest caliber of care.
The new medical campus is designed to enhance the patient experience by providing comprehensive same-day surgery, on-site specialty physician offices and advanced diagnostic imaging. Multiple floors will be dedicated exclusively to state-of-the-art cancer services, offering a comprehensive oncology clinic and centers for state-of-the-art infusion and radiation therapy treatment.
“We know that cancer doesn’t travel well, and patients shouldn’t have to leave the state or go far from home to receive the best care possible,” said Steven Libutti, MD, FACS, Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Senior Vice President of Oncology Services for RWJBarnabas Health. “As New Jersey’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we are at the forefront of cancer research and care – transforming discoveries into clinical practice, advancing our understanding of a disease that impacts so many, and supporting our patients from prevention to treatment and survivorship.”
The Vogel Medical Campus will be built with patients and the community in mind. The park-like setting will feature expansive environmental considerations, such as water features and walking paths. The campus also reflects Monmouth Medical Center’s and RWJBarnabas Health’s ongoing commitment to Monmouth County.
“Our evolution is only made possible thanks to the community leaders and philanthropic supporters who work alongside us to bring Monmouth County’s residents what they need,” said Bill Arnold, Executive Vice President and President of the Southern Region, RWJBarnabas Health, and Chief Executive Officer of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. “With the development of the Vogel Medical Campus, we are entering a future where residents can stay close to home to receive world-class healthcare.”
Monmouth Medical Center is dedicated to providing timely updates with the community throughout this building process. For the latest information, please visit: www.rwjbh.org/vmc.
Breaking ground on the Vogel Medical Campus at Tinton Falls are, from left, Mary Anne Nagy, Chair of the Monmouth Medical Center Board of Trustees and Vice President of Student Life and Leadership Engagement, Monmouth University; Glenn Miller, Executive Vice President, Chief Development Officer; Eric Carney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus; Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer, RWJBarnabas Health; Donor Sheldon Vogel; Bill Arnold, Executive Vice President and President of the Southern Region, RWJBarnabas Health, and Chief Executive Officer of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital; John W. Doll, Chief Operating Officer, RWJBarnabas Health; Steven Libutti, MD, FACS, Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Senior Vice President of Oncology Services for RWJBarnabas Health; and Claire Knopf, Chair of the Monmouth Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees.
Also participating in the ceremonial groundbreaking with RWJBarnbas Health, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Monmouth Medical Center senior leadership and board members are state, county and municipal elected officials, including shown at front, Tinton Falls Mayor and FMERA Board Member Vito Perillo.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER) – For the third consecutive year, Mercer County Military Action Council has partnered with the Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton during its annual Flags for Heroes campaign. Net proceeds from the campaign will be donated to nonprofit organizations in Mercer County, including MCMAC, which will use its allocation to support sending junior military members home for the winter holidays through the Send a Hero Home for the Holidays Program.
“We are so pleased to be a part of this admirable campaign again,” Regina Arcuri, chairwoman of MCMAC, said. “This program is a great way for us to show junior service members that we honor their steadfast commitment to serve our nation, and the sacrifice of their whole family.”
Arcuri, an Honorary Commander at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, noted that Send a Hero Home for the Holidays gives military families a chance to spend time with their loved ones during the winter holiday season and reassures them that their sacrifice is greatly appreciated.
The campaign allows contributors to sponsor or purchase a flag in honor of veterans or active duty service members, as well as local first responders, hospital workers, teachers and whomever they consider a “hero” in their life. More than 300 flags are expected to be flown on the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s Hamilton Campus from Nov. 1-18. The deadline to order flags online is Oct. 18.
A dedication ceremony will be held 11 a.m. Nov. 4 on the hospital campus.
An individual flag sponsorship cost $60. All sponsors receive a digital certificate via email, a keepsake placard with their hero’s name, and a mention on the sponsor banner and website. For an additional $40 sponsors can keep their flag. New this year: Sponsors can have their flag donated to an active military member.
Corporate sponsorships are available. Visit www.RHRotary.org for more details.
MCMAC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the service members and the mission of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, as well as active-duty personnel, reservists, guardsmen, veterans and their respective families living in local towns.
For more information about the Mercer County Military Action Council or to become a member, visit www.mcmilitaryactioncouncil.org
Regina Arcuri, chair of Mercer County Military Action Council, speaks at the 2022 Flags for Heroes dedication ceremony.
Flags flown on the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton campus in 2022.
Each flag sponsorship receives a keepsake placard with their hero’s name.
WEST WINDSOR-PRINCETON, NJ (MERCER)–An emergency bridge replacement is scheduled to start Friday involving the Washington Road (CR 571) Bridge over D&R Canal, between Princeton and West Windsor Township.
On or about Friday, July 21, 2023, an emergency bridge replacement project will be undertaken by the Department of Transportation (NJDOT) on Washington Road (CR 571) over D&R Canal in the Municipality of Princeton and West Windsor Township. Washington Road will be completely closed to traffic for the duration of the project, which is expected to be approximately 120 days, weather permitting. Motorists will be directed to use US Route 1, Harrison Street (CR 629) and NJ Route 27.
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced that the decedent at the center of an investigation originating out of Lakewood Township has been identified as David Koscuik, 57, of Lakewood.
On February 28, 2024, at approximately 12:13 p.m., the Lakewood Township Police Department received notification concerning an unconscious male located inside the trunk of a vehicle, parked in the area of Fairway Court in Lakewood Township. Upon responding to the area, Officers located the body of a deceased male.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit are currently investigating this matter.
This investigation remains active and ongoing; there is no known danger to the public, and additional information will be released when it becomes available.
Anyone in possession of information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Detective Olga Brylevskaya of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 4105, or Detective Austin Letts of the Lakewood Township Police Department at 732-363-0200.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 7:20 p.m. the Hope Fire Company/Upper Freehold Firefighters and Capitol Health EMS responded to a head-on collision on County Road 524/New Canton-Stone Tavern Road, west of Sharon Station Road. Upon arrival firefighters and EMS treated victims and an additional ambulance was called from Robbinsville Township EMS to the scene. Two people were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Firefighters controlled a fluid spill from the vehicles. New Jersey State Police is investigating the crash. The roadway was closed a short time for cleanup. No further details are available at this time.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on June 13, 2024, Anthony Brown, 20, of Toms River, was charged with Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, all in connection with an incident that occurred on June 12, 2024, in Toms River.
On June 12, 2024, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department responded to a residence on Adams Avenue for a report of a gunshot victim. Responding Officers discovered a 24-year-old male victim with a gunshot wound to his leg. The victim was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of his injuries, where he was treated and subsequently released.
An ensuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Toms River Township Police Department revealed that Brown retrieved a handgun from the subject residence and fired two shots at the victim’s vehicle, striking the victim. Brown then fled the scene.
A short time later, Brown was taken into custody at his residence without incident. Brown was transported to the Ocean County Jail where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their combined and cooperative assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Students Set to Open Pollinator Garden Behind Robbinsville High School on Friday
June 12, 2024
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER) – Sahana Iyer is proud to be a local protector of bees.
Since her freshman year at Robbinsville High School, the 16-year-old student has been focused on the plight of pollinators, making sure they have access to the types of plants they need to survive and thrive.
“The Garden State is beautiful, and that is because it has the bees and butterflies for the greenery,” she said. “But the population of the pollinator species is declining, and I want to do all I can to help them.”
As the co-founded of the non-profit, student-run SHINE program, Sahana has launched the “Bee Better Project.” Sahana, and her fellow pollinator supporters, have planted a garden behind the baseball field in the back of the high school campus.
On Friday, at 2:15 p.m., the students will join Schools Superintendent Brian Betze to officially mark the opening of the fenced-in garden, created with the generous donations of plants from local flower shops.
“I was very pleased to work closely with the students on mapping out this garden and helping ensure it is a success,” Betze said. “I am very impressed with Sahana and the other members of the Bee Better Project for making this all happen.”
While school will be dismissed for summer in the next few days, Sahana – a rising senior – plans to visit the garden with her friends this summer to water the plants and ensure its survival during the hottest days of the year.
As part of the project, she said, community awareness has been key. Sahana said she and her fellow students have attended local events, talked with senior citizens and scouts and have used social media to highlight the plight of the pollinator. They have discussed how habitat loss, disease, parasites, and environmental contaminants have all contributed to the decline of many species of pollinators, including bees, moths and butterflies.
More than 80 percent of the world’s flowering plants need a pollinator to reproduce; and humans need pollinators too; most of our food comes from flowering plants. One out of every three bites of our food, including fruits, vegetables, chocolate, coffee, nuts, and spices, is created with the help of pollinators, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Sahana has taken this important campaign a step further, developing her own app – the “Pollinator Pal” – over the past year to help others create their own gardens and learn how to care for them. She hopes to take her interest into college, where she plans to study biology or environmental science.
For the Bee Better Project, Sahana expressed her appreciation to other clubs in the school, such as the Environmental Alliance and Outlet, which partnered with SHINE on this initiative. Upwards of 20 students have been involved.
“I’m just glad we can raise more awareness about this important issue,” Sahana said.
Students Set to Open Pollinator Garden Behind Robbinsville High School on Friday
Empire-Wind-1-and-2-Brochure-July-2022Download
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
