New Liquor License Bill Opens Revenue Doors for New Jersey’s Performing Arts Venues

BURLINGTON, N.J. – (October 2025) — ArtPride New Jersey applauds the passage of new liquor license legislation, which received strong bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy.
The bill expands eligibility to include nonprofit and for-profit theaters and small movie theaters across the state. This landmark legislation is a powerful economic driver for New Jersey, especially for arts organizations still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This new law unlocks the ability for eligible performance venues—including independent and nonprofit movie theaters with up to three screens—to apply for and benefit from liquor licenses. The legislation serves as a vital tool for arts organizations to diversify revenue streams, attract new audiences, and offset funding gaps, including potential reductions in federal support from agencies like the National Endowment for the Arts.

“We are incredibly grateful for Governor Murphy and the legislators who supported this bill, extending a lifeline to live performing arts venues in our state,” says Sara Scully, ArtPride New Jersey board member, co-founder, and former Executive Director at Hopewell Theater. “We, at Hopewell Theater (HT), advocated for this legislation because it provides an opportunity for HT and theaters like it to expand the experience they can offer patrons and to remain competitive.” Hopewell Theater closed a year and a half ago due to rising costs and the inability to obtain a liquor license – a key income source for live venues. Scully and associates are now working to re-envision what’s next for HT given the bill’s passage.

“We are thrilled to hear this news, both for HT and for all the other theaters that will benefit from this opportunity.”A Strategic Move for Economic VitalityNew Jersey’s nonprofit arts and culture industry already generates $692.1 million annually, supporting nearly 13,000 jobs and producing over $156.6 million in tax revenue for state and local governments. The addition of this earned income stream through liquor sales further strengthens the sector’s self-sustainability, allowing organizations to reinvest in programming, staff, and community outreach.

This legislation also levels the playing field, recognizing that nonprofit and for-profit venues often serve similar public functions and face the same financial pressures. The change provides a welcome path forward for small businesses and organizations that had been previously priced out of traditional liquor licenses—some of which were valued at over $1.5 million, as in the case of the Hopewell Theater.

Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese, Vice-Chair of the Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee, emphasized the importance of the new legislation, stating:
“Nonprofit theaters play a vital role in making our communities vibrant, both culturally and economically. While some theaters previously had access to beverage licenses, the process was narrow and limited in scope. This legislation expands eligibility and removes unnecessary barriers—giving more small theaters the opportunity to enhance the audience experience and support their long-term sustainability. I am proud to have worked with Senators Sarlo and Gopal, Assemblywoman Carter, and our partners in the arts to advance this bill. I look forward to seeing it strengthen neighborhoods, support local jobs, and help the arts thrive throughout the state.”

Community Revitalization with Cultural RootsBeyond internal revenue, the impact will ripple through local economies. More vibrant venue experiences translate into greater foot traffic, extended visitor stays, and increased patronage at nearby restaurants, shops, and hotels.“This legislation recognizes that arts and culture are central to thriving downtowns,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey. “When theaters and performance spaces succeed, they don’t just benefit audiences—they energize entire communities, creating opportunities for small businesses, tourism, and long-term economic growth.”Next Steps & Oversight

The New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is currently developing implementation procedures. While details about license transferability and insurance remain under review, ArtPride New Jersey will continue to advocate for responsible, equitable rollouts that center the needs of arts organizations.
This legislative win was made possible through a collaborative advocacy effort led by ArtPride New Jersey, local theaters, the New Jersey Independent Venue Association, and government partners. The foundation was laid during the height of the pandemic, when the urgency to help shuttered venues became a rallying point for statewide reform.

Reflecting on the importance of this legislative milestone, State Senator Vin Gopal shared:
“Local theaters and arts organizations have profound impacts on our communities, both culturally and economically. I’m proud to have been a part of this legislation that will help to support and grow New Jersey’s local arts,” said State Senator Vin Gopal.

Police Seek Public’s Help in Locating Homicide Suspect

The Philadelphia Police Department’s Homicide Unit is requesting the public’s assistance in locating Francisco Fernandez, the male depicted in the attached photo. Fernandez is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 36-year-old Darnell Brown.

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at approximately 7:33 p.m., 22nd District officers responded to a report of a shooting at 33rd and York Streets, near a gas station. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, Darnell Brown of the 2400 block of North 31st Street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Brown was transported to Temple University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:51 p.m.

The preliminary investigation determined that both the victim and the offender exited the store moments before the shooting. Surveillance footage shows the two men conversing as they walked away from the location. The suspect then shot the victim once in the chest and fled on foot. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been made at this time.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Francisco Fernandez is urged to contact the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334, or to submit an anonymous tip by calling 215-686-TIPS.

A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

***The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.***

NJ Department of Corrections Hosts Recruitment Open House

TRENTON, NJ – On Wednesday, October 29, the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) will host a Recruitment Open House at their Conference and Training Center at Jones Farm in Ewing, NJ. This event is free and open to any individuals who are interested in starting a career at NJDOC by becoming a Correctional Police Officer.

At the Open House, individuals can meet with NJDOC Recruitment Officers and learn more about the hiring process – from information on salary/benefits and qualifications, to learning more about the physical fitness requirements, NJDOC’s Training Academy and the roles and responsibilities of Correctional Police Officers. Individuals can also receive onsite assistance filling out the application and guidance on next steps with the application process.

Individuals will also have the opportunity to meet with officers from specialized units and learn more about the many a variety of unique career paths within the Department, including positions within the nine NJDOC facilities, along with a variety of specialty tracks, including: Special Operations Group, which specializes in K-9s, designated marksmen and critical incident negotiation; Special Investigations Division, which specializes in special victims, fugitive and corrections intelligence; the Office of Emergency Management, which provides advanced security planning for high profile events; and more.

NJDOC Recruitment Open House

NJDOC Conference and Training Center at Jones Far, 721 Bear Tavern Road, Ewing, NJ 08628

Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 2:30 – 7:30 p.m.

About New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC)

The mission of NJDOC is to advance public safety and promote successful reintegration in a dignified, safe, secure, rehabilitative, and gender-informed environment, supported by a professional, trained, and diverse workforce, enhanced by community engagement. For more information, visit: NJDOC.gov.

New Initiative Will Make Camden Preschoolers Kindergarten Ready, Civic Leaders Say

By Janel “Jaycee” Miller

Leaders from a variety of organizations shared details at Kipp Cooper Norcross Academy on Monday of the recently launched Camden Preschool Initiative. “We are here to reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the growth and development of every child in Camden,” Gov. Phil Murphy said at the event. “With every additional dollar we devote today to educating our young learners, we are investing in the workers and leaders of tomorrow who will take our state boldly into the future.” Rowan University/Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors Chair David R. Mayer added that the initiative will “contribute to the intellectual, economic and social development of 3- and 4-year-olds and help them overcome some of the barriers to academic achievement. The better children do in school, the more they reduce the risk of health issues as they grow up.”

READ MORE

Gloucester Finally Done With Passwords and Paperwork

Inflation’s crushing wallets while people prepare to fight AI and deepfakes just to keep what’s left of their money safe – a scenario that, not long ago, would’ve sounded like a low-budget post-apocalypse movie.

And yet here we are, with Gloucester moving toward smarter digital systems so residents can actually use public services with two clicks, and, more importantly, rethink how much data they truly need to hold – because protecting less makes far more sense than managing what could leak tomorrow.

Privacy isn’t some abstract concern anymore when AI can clone your voice from a thirty-second recording, and phishing sites look identical to the real thing down to the security badges. The average person scrolling through their phone has encountered at least one deepfake in the past year – 60% of consumers have seen manipulated videos, audio, or images designed to deceive them – and the code’s just getting better while our ability to spot fakes remains dangerously low at just 24.5% accuracy for HQ videos.

People are rightfully scared of every form they fill and login they create, with synthetic identity fraud jumping 5,000% in just two years – mostly targeting everyday shoppers and gamers who never imagined their data would end up on a dark-web marketplace.

Gamers protecting their Steam libraries, streamers worried about swatting attacks, even casual mobile players have learned the hard way that sharing less is surviving more, and nowhere is this philosophy more obvious than in casino gaming, where winnings mean actual money that needs proper protection.

Each KYC request, once sold as ‘safety’ created more risk, so no KYC casinos replaced identification with verification, letting players deposit, play, and withdraw in seconds through encrypted wallets without ever surrendering data that could be misused.

These platforms are pragmatic responses to a digital market where your identity verification documents are more valuable to criminals than the money in your account, which fits perfectly into the broader shift toward account-free systems with no personal information on servers.

The fear behind these changes isn’t theoretical. Each new AI leap tightens the loop between personal data and financial loss. Surveys show that most people already live with that pressure – 72% worry about being tricked by deepfakes into giving away information or money, and another 60% want governments to finally step in and regulate the tools making these fakes possible.

That tension pushed federal systems to double down on verification. Login.gov, the government’s single sign-on portal, has more than 72 million active users and roughly 3.3 million accounts verified at Identity Assurance Level 2 – the standard for high-risk transactions like federal benefits and disaster aid.

It was built to simplify access and cut costs, yet its scale now reflects the very vulnerabilities Gloucester is trying to leave behind. A single credential failure could ripple through multiple departments in seconds, which is exactly why smaller cities are testing different models built to function without storing identity data in the first place.

Gloucester’s smaller-scale model, by comparison, looks more like a preview of where public infrastructure may have to go – from bulk storage to task-specific verification. The council is piloting account-free and low-authentication systems for everything from planning requests to waste collection schedules, recognizing that most services only need a postcode, not a profile.

Guest access, anonymous reporting, and crypto-based municipal payments aren’t futuristic experiments – they’re practical ways to cut exposure before it happens.

This movement toward privacy-preserving design represents something more fundamental than just another efficiency drive – it’s acknowledgment that in an era of deepfake fraud increasing 1,740% year-over-year in North America and identity verification failures increasingly linked to synthetic media (5% of failures now involve deepfakes), the safest data is the data never collected at all.

Gloucester’s residents won’t need to trust the council’s cybersecurity when there’s nothing valuable to steal. The strongest defense against cybercrime isn’t another firewall – it’s a system designed so that breaches simply don’t matter.

Don’t make federal workers pay the price for the government shutdown

by Rep. Donald Norcross

When the federal government shuts down, the civil servants who keep it running should not pay the price. Yet today, hundreds of thousands of federal workers, including air traffic controllers, firefighters and nurses, are being forced to work without pay. Instead of working to end this shutdown or pass legislation to pay all these hardworking individuals, the Trump administration has chosen to pay only select groups, leaving the rest behind.
On Oct. 15, President Trump signed a memo to pay members of the military during the shutdown by repurposing unspent federal funds. The following day, the Trump administration announced it would extend pay to thousands of law enforcement officers, including those working for the Transportation Security Agency, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Secret Service. Although paying these individuals is the right thing to do, the problem lies in deciding who deserves a paycheck and who doesn’t. The federal government doesn’t function without its full workforce.
Right now, federal employees across the nation are working without pay to keep America running. Air traffic controllers are working mandatory overtime and six-day shifts to manage the safe travel of millions of passengers and tons of cargo every day. Nurses at the Department of Veterans Affairs are providing care to our nation’s veterans.
First responders are keeping our families safe. Every one of these public servants has a family to support, bills to pay, and obligations that don’t disappear simply because Congress and the White House have reached an impasse. The president’s decision to selectively pay certain employees based on political optics is a slap in the face to every federal worker who wakes up in the morning ready to serve their country.

READ MORE

Advisory Message: Veteran’s Day Service

Join us at the Winslow Twp. Municipal War Memorial (125 S Route 73) starting at 11 AM to honor our Nation’s Veterans. Light refreshments and free fresh produce will be available while supplies last.

Veteran’s Day
Date: Tuesday November 11, 2025
Time: 11 am
Location: War Memorial at Winslow Township Municipal Complex 125 S. Route 73, Braddock

Events Honoring Veterans

The Camden County Board of Commissioners and Veteran Affairs is hosting various events honoring veterans and those who have served. Padre Peter Molnar Veteran Appreciation Breakfast – Tuesday, November 11th @ 8 AM |Collingswood Ballroom, 315 White Horse Pike. Registration is required, Click Here.“A Place of Honor” NJ Vietnam Veterans Memorial Short Film & Panel Discussion – Thursday, November 13th @ 6 PM | Scottish Rite Auditorium. For more information, Click Here.

Coexisting with Wildlife This Fall & Winter

As temperatures drop, wildlife look for food, warmth, and shelter — sometimes closer to our homes than we realize.

Here’s how you can help keep both people and animals safe:

Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids

Bring pet food indoors — it can attract wildlife

Seal up entry points in attics, crawl spaces, and under decks

Provide fresh water safely away from your home

Drive carefully at dusk and dawn when animals are most active

Never feed, trap, or relocate wildlife — it can harm them and disrupt the ecosystem.

Gloucester County Animal Shelter

1200 N. Delsea Drive, Clayton, NJ

856-881-2828 | gcas@co.gloucester.nj.us

Let’s do our part to coexist with wildlife safely and responsibly this season.

Plan Ahead: Best Places to Visit in 2025

Many explorers are eager to discover new destinations in 2025. They are keen to step out, explore the world, and immerse themselves in new cultures. Here are a few examples of the most interesting locations to visit in the future. Whether you prefer a lively city scene or a serene landscape, there is more than one option for the traveller.

Enchanting European Cities

Europe interweaves history and modernity, whether in quaint, ancient cities or vibrant streets like Tchoupitoulas Street in New Orleans. The following cities are among the must-visit destinations in 2025.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most beautiful coastal cities, combining architectural beauty, artistic charm, and a vibrant coastal beach life. Visitors can explore the intricate details of legendary architect Gaudí’s work, such as the Sagrada Família. Strolling the streets opens the doors to the culture and delicious food. It is one of those places that is always a great time due to the lively vibe of the city.

Prague, Czech Republic

There’s a fairy tale vibe in its gorgeous medieval architecture. The Charles Bridge and the historic castle create an iconic backdrop. Hidden cafes and shops line picturesque cobblestone streets, making for a beautiful sight. You experience a meeting of the past and the present, and it’s unforgettable.

Exotic Asian Destinations

Asia is a blend of tradition and innovation. In 2025, these locations are sure to tell enchanting stories.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto has a timeless beauty and cultural richness all of its own. It features soothing ancient temples and shrines set within a garden. The city transforms into a beautiful spectacle in the cherry blossom season. Kimonos and traditional tea ceremonies add to the charm and atmosphere.

Bali, Indonesia

Natural wonder and spirituality await in Bali. It is full of beautiful scenery, ranging from the pristine beaches to the never-ending rice terraces. Whether taking part in wellness retreats or visiting vibrant markets, visitors are spoiled for choice. The warmth and tradition of the island will ensure that your experience is enriching.

Breathtaking Natural Wonders

There are excellent spots for nature lovers to visit in 2025.

Patagonia, Argentina, and Chile

Patagonia boasts some of the wildest and most dramatic landscapes, which are absolutely breathtaking. A breathtaking panorama unfolds, featuring soaring mountains, endless glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. Hikers and boat tours are available to take in the region’s stunning scenery. The wilderness is not just wild and fast; it is also the source of calmness and wonder!

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Explore the world-renowned marine wonder, the Great Barrier Reef. For underwater exploration, you will encounter a diverse array of wildlife through snorkeling and diving. This fantastic place brings the chance to be part of the beauty of nature. Because of the efforts to protect this ecosystem, it’s a sustainable and rewarding option.

Unique Cultural Experiences

Exploring local cultures offers a more nuanced perspective on global diversity.

Marrakech, Morocco

A city bursting with colors and markets, Marrakech keeps you enthralled. Its labyrinthine streets will reveal hidden gems and architectural wonders. Tourists can savor the traditional Moroccan cuisine and experience the vibrant festivals. This blend of old and current gives an enjoyable travel experience.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco is a gateway to ancient Incan heritage. The city’s cobbled roads and ancient buildings have their own tales from the past. Nearby is Machu Picchu, a testament to one of the greatest human-built civilizations. The cultural experience is further enriched by engaging with local communities.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Travelers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly destinations today.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik takes pride in its environmentally friendly practices. Sustainable tourism is exemplified by the city’s utilization of geothermal energy and its supportive policies. Visitors experience amazing natural wonders while participating in a conservation effort. It is a confluence of nature and technology that is unmatched.

Costa Rica

Eco-tourism pioneer Costa Rica is a natural paradise for all. Endless opportunities await those who choose to explore the lush rainforests abundant with wildlife. Sustainability is at the heart of the country, where we know it will have a favorable environmental impact. It is a place where one can travel responsibly and feel close to nature.

Conclusion

When you are planning a trip in 2025, you can also think of some fantastic destinations. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, experiences are available for every taste. Each destination has its own delights and comes with its own adventures. As the year comes to a close, consider exploring these destinations in a way that excites and enriches.