NJ 101.5 News

As the new school year approaches, children may experience stress and anxiety. Counselor Dr. Marty Tashman emphasizes the importance of preparation and communication between parents and children to help them cope with these feelings. This advice aims to ease the transition for kids as they adjust to new routines.

The use of flock cameras in New Jersey is sparking debate, with concerns about privacy versus the need for law enforcement tools. Senator Michael Testa has proposed a bill aimed at establishing regulations to protect citizens' rights while allowing police to effectively use technology to solve crimes. This reflects a broader discussion on balancing security and privacy.

In response to three fatal accidents involving crossing guards, the New Jersey Department of Labor has launched a statewide safety initiative. This program has reached over 5,300 crossing guards and aims to improve safety through inspections and public awareness campaigns. The initiative is timely as the new school year approaches, emphasizing the importance of safety in school zones.

Roughly three dozen towns in New Jersey have enacted bans on data centers due to concerns over resource depletion and rising electric bills. Local residents often find out about these developments too late to voice their opposition, leading to lawsuits against towns like Andover and Monroe. The situation highlights the tension between local governance and developer interests.

A significant proposal for a $158 million referendum has been introduced in Morris, coinciding with a recent 3.5% increase in the school tax levy. This development highlights ongoing discussions about funding for education in the area.

Consumer sentiment has dropped for the first time in three months, with the preliminary index for August falling to 51 from July's 55.2. This decline reflects growing concerns among consumers, as indicated by the recent stock market performance.

The weekend weather forecast indicates a beautiful Saturday with mostly sunny skies and temperatures ranging from 80 to 85 degrees. However, Sunday is expected to be cloudier and cooler, with a chance of rain.

The Philadelphia Phillies secured a decisive 7-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins during a special MLB game at the Field of Dreams in Iowa. The event featured a nostalgic pregame ceremony with 26 Hall of Famers, celebrating the iconic film's legacy.

David Shreitman, accused of murdering 27-year-old Mary Rose Philly in January 2024, has been deemed competent to stand trial by Judge Peter Tober. Shreitman has been receiving treatment at a secure psychiatric hospital since his arrest over two years ago.

Congressman Josh Gottheimer is leading efforts to enhance the protection of drinking water infrastructure following FBI reports of coordinated cyber attacks on water systems, including two in New Jersey. This development highlights the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures to prevent future attacks.

Stocks are experiencing a downturn as a report from the Trump White House reveals that countries are rerouting exports through third nations to evade U.S. tariffs, resulting in significant tax revenue losses. This situation underscores ongoing trade tensions and their economic implications.

New Jersey has reported its first confirmed case of the Zika virus since 2020, with a resident in Middlesex County testing positive. Health officials note that all cases this year have been linked to travel, highlighting ongoing public health concerns.

AARP New Jersey has released a survey indicating that families are under significant pressure as they balance caregiving responsibilities with their own financial needs. The organization is advocating for a caregiver tax credit to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by caregivers.

Despite Governor Mikey Sherrill's executive order to freeze utility rates, electric bills in New Jersey have risen by 14% compared to last year. JCPNL has requested an additional 9% increase starting in 2028, raising concerns among residents about the affordability of energy.

John Benzac, a 72-year-old music teacher, faces criminal charges for attempting to engage in sexual contact with a 17-year-old student and sending harassing messages afterward. The case has raised serious concerns about the safety of students in educational settings.

Residents in North Jersey were startled by loud booms that occurred overnight, leading to various theories on social media about their cause. The National Weather Service attributed the sounds to a thunderstorm, while some reported seeing a streak of light coinciding with the noise.

Recent cyber attacks on water systems across the U.S., including two in South Jersey, have prompted Congressman Josh Gottheimer to propose new legislation aimed at strengthening critical infrastructure. The attacks highlight ongoing vulnerabilities in essential services.

Stockton University is facing potential staffing and program cuts due to declining enrollment and reduced state aid, with this year's budget being $311 million less than the previous year. The situation raises concerns about the future of the institution.

A Brick Township woman, Burnett Cobb, faces two counts of felony vehicular homicide after a fatal accident caused by her panic when a bug flew into her car. The incident occurred in Pennsylvania, resulting in the death of a motorcycle driver and passenger.

A private music teacher, 72-year-old John Benzac, faces criminal charges for allegedly stalking a 17-year-old student and making sexual advances. Prosecutors in Passa County have charged him with child endangerment and stalking after he reportedly sent harassing text messages to the teen.