Trenton, NJ – Governor Chris Christie announced his enactment of Executive Order 213, with the State Transportation Trust Fund Authority days away from exhausting all of its available funds.
“No evident progress has been made by the Legislature to pass a single, viable bill to reauthorize the TTFA,” Governor Christie stated. “A well-maintained transportation infrastructure is essential to the operation of New Jersey’s economy and the people who rely upon it in all aspects of their daily lives. The current situation will persist until the Senate and the General Assembly pass an acceptable TTFA funding bill. Until they do so, the State must use money from the General Fund for emergency road, bridge, and mass transportation work.”
Under Executive Order 213, attached, the state Treasurer is directed to make available general funds for expenses determined to be absolutely essential for the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of the people of the State of New Jersey, or that are required to ensure the receipt of federal funding, in accordance with Executive Order 210, until the Governor determines an emergency no longer exists.
New Jersey always seems to make it into the top tier when it comes to being an expensive place to live, and new data shows the state ranks ninth nationally in a new survey of student loan debt.
The average debt per borrower in the state was $30,536 and 63 percent of all students had taken out a college loan, according to a recent study compiled by LendEDU, a Hoboken-based private web marketplace for student loans and refinancing.
By Myles Ma | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
on August 16, 2016 at 7:30 AM, updated August 16, 2016 at 10:40 AM
HILLSDALE — Terri Pendergast used to enjoy walking her dog in the woods behind her house every day. She’d take a meandering path through the timber, her childhood stomping grounds, to trails leading to the Musquapsink Brook.
For Pendergast, it was a quiet sanctuary she shared with the deer, owls and other animals that made these woods their home. The woods butted up to the back of about 15 homes on Ell Road, turning yards into country oases just 25 miles from New York City.
But in June, those woods were suddenly gone, replaced by a 12-acre bald patch crisscrossed with muddy tire tracks to make way for a housing development.
Ridgewood NJ, Congressman Garrett has consistently worked to advance legislation that helps grow our economy and create jobs in New Jersey. He played a central role in crafting the Financial CHOICE Act, the Republican plan to replace the failed Dodd-Frank Act and promote economic growth. This legislation would promote higher economic growth without bailouts, reduce the risk of crises, and simplify the regulatory process by emphasizing market mechanisms operating through the rule of law.
In contrast, Josh Gottheimer’s career has been defined by taking advantage of his Clinton connections. His fundraising disclosures shows how he is leveraging the Clinton Network to help buy his way into Congress.
But this is not the first time that Mr. Gottheimer has called upon the Clinton universe to advance his career. As a matter of fact, it’s not even the second or third time. It turns out that Josh Gottheimer has spent his entire career as a Clinton lackey, leveraging their network to land jobs at Ford, Burson Marsteller, the Federal Communications Commission, and Microsoft.
Vying to be the congressional representative for New Jersey’s Fifth District is frankly a bit comical, because it’s hard for us to believe that Washington insider Josh Gottheimer’s loyalty would be to anyone other than the people who’ve made his career: the Clintons and Washington’s special interests.
Josh Gottheimer has made a career out of leveraging his connections to the Clinton family, but those connections don’t come for free.
As with any quintessential crime family, the Clintons will do you a favor, and someday, they’ll call upon you to do a service for them.
It looks like Josh Gottheimer has been more than willing to live by the rules of the Clinton cartel: during Mr. Gottheimer’s tenure at Microsoft, Bill Clinton was paid $225,000 to give one speech.
Well done, Josh. We’re sure you made The Family proud.
Voters of the Fifth District are understandably concerned about where Josh Gottheimer’s loyalties lie. But Mr. Gottheimer has been incredibly clear all along: everything he has, he owes to the Clinton family. They are his first and only constituency, and he is their loyal soldier.
Half of American voters think labor unions have an outsized role in the country’s politics, a new poll has found.
Additionally, according to a new survey from Rasmussen Reports, 57 percent of respondents say union leaders are out of touch with their members. Just one in five Americans believe labor executives do a good job representing union members.
The same rate of of respondents who are now or have ever been union members said union leaders are out of touch and the groups have too much political clout. One in three current or former union members say unions do not have enough influence, compared to one in four among the general population and just one in five among non-union members.
Democrats are, unsurprisingly, much more sympathetic to unions and their leaders. Just one-third of the more labor-friendly party think the groups have too much influence, while nearly 70 percent of Republicans say the same.
Glen Rock NJ, Glen Rock firefighters battled a brush fire on Route 208 northbound near Lincoln Avenue on Sunday afternoon, 08/14. The fire appeared to have been caused by a downed high tension electrical wire. Route 208 northbound was briefly closed at Deboer Avenue as firefighters worked.
Quiz time: What information might the authorities have passed on to the general public about the appearance of the assailants, but mysteriously did not?
Absolutely absurd that these suspects are not being profiled properly. Take a lesson from the wyckoff chief and maybe we can protect ourselfs from these criminals.
What futher description Age Race hair color what is medium build ?.height etc
These guys are maniacs and need to be caught.pistol whipping people needs a serious police reaction ..before these crimes are copied..
“Remain vigilant and report any sort of suspicious activity” says the police chief.
What he’s asking you to do, in his own diplomatic way, is to drop dime on anybody who subjectively looks to you, the bona fide neighborhood resident, like they are out of place and might be up to no good. Unlike the average patrolman, there are no career-ending consequences for an ordinary resident to defy PC orthodoxy and shine the floodlamp of municipal authority on a potential perp. For all of our sakes, don’t go wobbly when something just doesn’t quite look right to you, but you can’t easily explain why. Your telephone call opens the door for the police to roll up on that person and chat them up without any further cause or reason, even if, had you never called, the police themselves, applying their own department guidelines or criteria (read: straightjacket), would have refrained from stopping and talking to the person in question.
In other words, do us all a favor and don’t let fear of how you’ll later be perceived affect the decision of whether or not to call the police.
DROUGHT WATCH ISSUED FOR MOST OF NORTHERN NEW JERSEY DEP URGES VOLUNTARY WATER-USE REDUCTIONS AS DRY CONDITIONS PERSIST
August 24,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Trenton NJ, As a result of continued dry weather, the Department of Environmental Protection has issued a water supply drought watch for most of northern New Jersey, Commissioner Bob Martin announced today. The DEP is urging residents in the affected areas to voluntarily conserve water and for the rest of the state to practice wise water use due to continued dry weather that is impacting levels in reservoirs, lakes, rivers and streams as well as shallow ground water sources. The drought watch affects the Northeast, Northwest, and Central regions.
These regions include all of Bergen, Essex, Hunterdon, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties. The purpose of the drought watch is to raise public awareness, formally alert all water suppliers in the affected regions, and seek voluntary cooperation to preserve existing supplies.
The goal is to moderate demand should dry conditions persist. “We have been carefully monitoring precipitation, reservoir storage, surface water and ground water conditions,” Commissioner Martin said. “The northern part of the state, which is very dependent on reservoirs, has experienced some of the driest conditions in the state over the past several months. Conditions in other parts of the state, though not as severe, are showing signs of stress, and residents of these areas should also conserve water. “We advocate for conservation of water at all times, but are urging residents to be especially aware of the situation and use water more carefully, especially when it comes to lawn watering and other non-essential uses,” Commissioner Martin added. Precipitation deficits over the past 90 days are as much as 40 percent below average in many parts of northern New Jersey, while deficits in central New Jersey are more moderate, ranging between 10 and 25 percent. Precipitation has been above average only in the southernmost counties of Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, and Salem.
Some suggested water conservation tips include:
• Do not over-water lawns and landscaping. Two times per week for 30 minutes in the morning or late evening typically is sufficient. Use a hose with a hand-held nozzle to water flowers and shrubs.
• Avoid watering lawns and plants during the heat of the day, since much of this water will evaporate without helping the lawn.
• Use a broom to sweep the sidewalk, rather than a hose.
• To save water at home, fix leaky faucets and pipes.
• Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth and shaving.
• Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.
“Our hope is to avoid a water emergency and the need to impose mandatory restrictions by preserving supplies now until more rainfall provides relief and replenishes water reserves,” Commissioner Martin added. “When everyone pitches in, many millions of gallons of water could be saved each day.”
Reservoirs are the primary source of drinking water in the Northeast Region, with a total of 12 reservoirs and a combined capacity of 70.6 billion gallons. While combined reservoir storage throughout the region remains relatively good, some are showing declines that are steeper than the long-term summertime averages due to lack of rainfall and increased demand. Two reservoir systems will warrant careful observation if the dry trend continues – Suez WaterNJ’s Oradell system in Bergen County and the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission’s Wanaque system in Passaic County. The concern is that these systems could become particularly stressed if dry conditions persist.
These two systems are critical to the region, accounting for roughly two-thirds of the total storage volume and serving some of the most densely populated areas of the state. Both systems have dropped to below 80 percent of capacity, about eight percent lower than usual for this time of year. If conditions remain warm and dry and water demands do not decrease, the DEP will consider further regulatory actions, such as the designation of a drought warning.
Under a drought warning, the DEP may order water suppliers to develop alternative sources of water or transfers of water between areas of New Jersey with relatively more water to those with less. For more state water supply status information, visit: www.njdrought.org/status.html For more information on water conservation, visit: www.njdrought.org/ideas.html
Pcd Has Nothing on Me! Paperback – March 28, 2016 by Chloe Fernandez
August 13,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood N J, Getting sick when you’re a kid is no fun. You can’t always do what other kids can do, or go to school like they do. Sometimes it means spending lots of time in the hospital. She sees the nurses in the hospital almost more than her friends. It can be scary, frustrating and boring. Chloe R Fernandez knows this all too well! When she was just six years old, she was diagnosed with chronic obstructive lung disease due to underlying Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD).
PCD is a genetic disorder. A body with PCD can’t clear its own airway secretions. She’s faced many scary moments when she couldn’t draw a breath and has endured painful and embarrassing treatments. But throughout it all, Chloe has remained positive and upbeat. During her hospitalizations Chloe befriends the nurses, doctors, staff and acts as the “Resident” doctor on call. One of her strongest beliefs is that “life is what you make it,” and her most avid advice is “stay faithful always.” Children of all ages, grappling with any kind of illness or condition, will find both an understanding and comfortable friend in Chloe.
“PCD Has Nothing On Me,” is a 47-page illustrated book, chronicles Chloe’s three-year journey through diagnosis, treatment, and hospitalizations.
Chloe is a vivacious 9 year old who is smart, sassy, kind, caring, loving, a charmer and fashionista. She is an avid reader and writer who has traveled the world via all the books she has read to date. Playing with her American Girl dolls, dress up with her friends and time spent with her family are all her favorite things to do. Chloe has a miniature schnauzer named Abby who she says melts her heart every time she looks at her.
Chloe was diagnosed with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia at the age of 6. PCD is a rare form of lung disease. Chloe has faced many scary moments when she couldn’t draw a breath and has endured many painful and embarrassing treatments. But through it all, Chloe has remained positive and upbeat.
Chloe hopes that in sharing her story she can bring awareness to PCD, but also be an inspiration for other kids living and dealing with chronic illness. She wants them to know they too can achieve anything they set their mind to. Chloe is a firm believer that her challenges don’t define her. She is often quoted as saying, “PCD is what I have not who I am.”
Chloe is a working actress, aspiring singer, and is signed to bmg Models & Talent. She is currently working on her second book.
Ramsey NJ, Ramsey police are urging citizens to not openly use their cellphones or tablets while walking or sitting in their cars after dark following a series of street robberies and attempts the past two weeks.
The first robbery occurred when two robbers swiped a cellphone from a woman at the corner of Island Avenue and Washington Drive around 11-11:30 p.m. on July 25th.
The second victim was struck several times in the face and head with a handgun as he used an iPad while parked in the driveway of his East Crescent Avenue home around the same time of day on Aug. 2nd.
The third robbery occurred on August 11th , the victims were Juveniles using their cell phones walking south on Hart Street.
All of the robbers were described as apparently in their 20s, with slender and medium builds.All wore dark clothing as well as black baseball caps with the letter “A” in script.
“It is obvious that the [robbers] are targeting victims that they are using cell phones, or other information technology devices,” the chief said. “If you have children, please advise them of this warning if they are out at night.” said Ramsey’s Police Chief Gurney.
Chief Gurney has asked citizens to “remain vigilant and report any sort of suspicious activity” immediately to his department: (201) 327-2400.
Bergenfield NJ, Rep. Scott Garrett (NJ-05) today called on Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Regional Administrator Les Fiorenzo to address the concerns brought up by local officials and emergency management coordinators at a July 25th forum held by the Congressman in Bergenfield. With oil trains travelling in areas of Bergen County, Rep. Garrett has led numerous efforts to ensure that residents know that their families and their property are safe when a freight train travels through our communities.
Rep. Garrett brought in high-ranking federal regulators and representatives from the rail industry so local elected officials and emergency management coordinators could hear directly from them about efforts to ensure the safe movement of goods on our nation’s rail network. The forum included presentations from FRA Regional Director Fiorenzo and CSX representatives to explain the resources available in New Jersey communities, such as crisis management exercises and emergency management coordinator training.
Local officials were also given an opportunity to express concerns directly to the FRA Regional Administrator—the federal regulator directly overseeing northern New Jersey. Some of those concerns have already been remedied or moved to the top of the FRA’s priority list thanks to the discussion at the forum. The goal of the forum was to create an open and transparent line of communication between federal and local officials.
Today, Garrett is following-up to get answers from the FRA on five specific concerns that were brought up during the forum:
Concerns regarding idling trains in residential areas and the security of these trains;
Obstructed grade crossing sightlines due to overgrown vegetation;
Requirements and the processes for establishing quiet zones in residential communities;
Reports of grade crossing malfunctions; and
The damaged railroad crossing on Broadway Avenue in Norwood.
Below is a report from the National Weather Service – Reminder – the Ridgewood Library is open to serve as a cooling center.
URGENT – WEATHER MESSAGE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE NEW YORK NY 227 PM EDT THU AUG 11 2016 …OPPRESSIVE HEAT AND HUMIDITY THROUGH THIS WEEKEND… …HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EDT SATURDAY…
…EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING… THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN UPTON HAS ISSUED A HEAT ADVISORY…WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EDT SATURDAY. AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH HAS ALSO BEEN ISSUED. THIS EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IS IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY MORNING THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING. * HEAT INDEX VALUES INTO THIS EVENING…100 TO 103. * HEAT INDEX VALUES FRIDAY…100 TO 105 DEGREES. * HEAT INDEX VALUES SATURDAY…AROUND 105 DEGREES. * HEAT INDEX VALUES SUNDAY…AROUND 105 DEGREES. * TIMING…HIGHEST HEAT INDICES IN THE MID TO LATE AFTERNOON. * IMPACTS…THE COMBINATION OF THE HEAT AND HUMIDITY WILL INCREASE THE RISK FOR HEAT RELATED HEALTH ISSUES…ESPECIALLY FOR THE ELDERLY…THOSE WITH CHRONIC HEALTH PROBLEMS SUCH AS LUNG AND HEART DISEASE…THOSE WORKING OUTDOORS…AND OTHER HEAT SENSITIVE GROUPS OF PEOPLE. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… A HEAT ADVISORY IS ISSUED WHEN THE COMBINATION OF HEAT AND HUMIDITY IS EXPECTED TO MAKE IT FEEL LIKE IT IS 100 TO 104 DEGREES FOR TWO CONSECUTIVE HOURS. AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH MEANS THAT THE COMBINATION OF HEAT AND HUMIDITY COULD CREATE A DANGEROUS SITUATION IN WHICH HEAT ILLNESSES ARE POSSIBLE. TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS IF YOU WORK OR SPEND TIME OUTSIDE. WHEN POSSIBLE…RESCHEDULE STRENUOUS ACTIVITIES TO EARLY MORNING OR EVENING. KNOW THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE. WEAR LIGHT WEIGHT AND LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING WHEN POSSIBLE AND DRINK PLENTY OF WATER. SENIORS AND THOSE WITH CHRONIC HEALTH PROBLEMS OR MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS ARE AT AN INCREASED RISK. HOMES WITHOUT AIR CONDITIONING CAN BE MUCH HOTTER THAN OUTDOOR TEMPERATURES. USE AIR CONDITIONING TO STAY COOL AT HOME OR GO TO A PLACE THAT HAS AIR CONDITIONING. CHECK ON VULNERABLE FRIENDS…FAMILY MEMBERS AND NEIGHBORS. TO REDUCE RISK DURING OUTDOOR WORK THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION RECOMMENDS SCHEDULING FREQUENT REST BREAKS IN SHADED OR AIR CONDITIONED ENVIRONMENTS. ANYONE OVERCOME BY HEAT SHOULD BE MOVED TO A COOL AND SHADED LOCATION. HEAT STROKE IS AN EMERGENCY…CALL 9 1 1.
A company based in the Meadowlands Hospital Medical Center has been advertising online to Russian citizens, encouraging pregnant women to come to the Secaucus facility to give birth — a process that makes the baby automatically eligible for U.S. citizenship and connects the hospital to a growing and relatively unknown international phenomenon known as “birth tourism.” Lilo H. Stainton, NJSpotlightRead more
Ranking state legislative leaders announced hearings as early as next month in an effort to fix a failing state computer system that has helped create extra-long lines at many of New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission offices this summer. John Chichowski, The Record Read more
