Coughlin Takes Oath for Historic Fifth Term as New Jersey Assembly Speaker, Reaffirms Commitment to Affordability

Craig J. Coughlin on Tuesday took the oath of office for his historic fifth term as New Jersey’s General Assembly Speaker, calling on the Legislature to build on its previous accomplishments in the new session by focusing on issues that matter most to New Jersey residents.

“The hope of a new Legislature, the promise of new members and the renewed opportunity to do good for the people of New Jersey. It’s something we all get excited about,” said Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex) as he addressed those gathered for the Assembly Reorganization Ceremony at the Trenton War Memorial. “Together, we have tackled the state’s toughest challenges, worked to make New Jersey more affordable, and stood up for workers and our shared New Jersey values.”

Speaker Coughlin will preside over the 80-member Assembly. Fifty-seven Assembly Democrats, including 12 new members, were sworn in today into the 222nd Legislative Session. Democrats now hold the largest majority they have had in the Assembly since Watergate and have held the majority since 2002.

“There is truly no greater calling than service to your neighbor and today, we honor your service and your decision to stand for office,” said Speaker Coughlin. “Personally, I am looking forward to working with you and learning from you because New Jersey needs—and I want—to benefit from all the unique life experiences in this room.”

In his speech, Speaker Coughlin reflected on some of the major achievements that have occurred under his leadership, including a focus on making New Jersey more affordable while also meeting financial obligations.

“We created the Stay NJ program, a truly transformative program that will bring property tax relief to our seniors and keep them right here in New Jersey where they belong, we cut taxes 24 times, we expanded family leave, we revised the minimum wage, we passed an equal pay act to ensure women were paid the same as a man,” said Speaker Coughlin. “And we did this while securing nine consecutive credit rating increases, and keeping our promise to teachers, firefighters, police officers, and public workers by making five consecutive full pension payments—something thought to be unachievable.”

He called on Republicans and Democrats to work together to find common ground.

“What makes me most proud of the Assembly is how we operate and who we are as people and advocates,” said Speaker Coughlin. “We’ve made it clear Trenton is not the same as Washington. We can work without insults; we can debate without rancor.”

You can read Speaker Coughlin’s prepared remarks here.

Assembly Democrats also selected Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald (D-Burlington, Camden) to serve an eighth term in this leadership position. Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) returns to her position of Speaker Pro Tempore, and Assemblywoman Linda Carter (D-Somerset, Union) will again serve as Majority Conference Leader.

“As my children look toward starting families of their own, I worry that the opportunities I had are slipping out of reach for their generation. Every parent wants to give their children a future that is brighter and more full of promise than the one we had,” said Majority Leader Greenwald. “We must bring the American Dream back within reach of every single New Jerseyan—not just those at the very top. They’re counting on us, and I know we won’t let them down.”

The following Assembly Democrats were sworn-in. New members are noted with an asterisk (*).

Legislative District 2 – Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan*
Legislative District 3 – Assemblyman Dave Bailey, Jr. and Assemblywoman Heather Simmons
Legislative District 4 – Assemblymen Dan Hutchison and Cody D. Miller
Legislative District 5 – Assemblymen William F. Moen Jr. and William W. Spearman
Legislative District 6 – Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald and Assemblywoman Melinda Kane
Legislative District 7 – Assemblywoman Carol A. Murphy and Assemblyman Balvir Singh
Legislative District 8 – Assemblywoman Andrea Katz and Assemblyman Anthony Angelozzi*
Legislative District 11 – Assemblywomen Margie Donlon and Luanne M. Peterpaul
Legislative District 14 – Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo and Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy
Legislative District 15 – Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli
Legislative District 16 – Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis
Legislative District 17 – Assemblymen Joseph Danielsen and Kevin P. Egan
Legislative District 18 – Assemblymen Robert J. Karabinchak and Sterley S. Stanley
Legislative District 19 – Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez
Legislative District 20 – Speaker Pro Tempore Annette Quijano and Assemblyman Ed Rodriguez*
Legislative District 21 – Assemblyman Andrew Macurdy* and Assemblyman Vincent M. Kearney*
Legislative District 22 – Majority Conference Leader Linda S. Carter and Assemblyman James J. Kennedy
Legislative District 25 – Assemblywoman Marisa Sweeney*
Legislative District 27 – Assemblywomen Rosaura “Rosy” Bagolie and Alixon Collazos-Gill
Legislative District 28 – Assemblywoman Cleopatra G. Tucker and Assemblyman Chigozie U. Onyema*
Legislative District 29 – Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor Marin and Shanique Speight
Legislative District 30 – Assemblyman Alexander “Avi” Schnall
Legislative District 31 –Assemblyman William B. Sampson, IV and Assemblyman Jerry Walker*
Legislative District 32 – Assemblyman Ravi S. Bhalla* and Assemblywoman Katie Brennan*
Legislative District 33 – Assemblymen Gabriel Rodriguez and Larry Wainstein*
Legislative District 34 – Assemblywoman Carmen T. Morales and Assemblyman Michael Venezia
Legislative District 35 – Assemblymen Al Abdelaziz and Kenyatta Stewart*
Legislative District 36 – Assemblymen Clinton Calabrese and Gary S. Schaer
Legislative District 37 – Assemblywomen Shama A. Haider and Ellen J. Park
Legislative District 38 – Assemblywoman Lisa Swain and Assemblyman Chris Tully

Northern Liberties & Fishtown Team Up For Philadelphia’s First-Ever Dry January Bar Crawl

** More Than Two Dozen Bars, Restaurants, Breweries, Distilleries, Wineries and More Offer Specially Priced Mocktails & NA Drinks **

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Dry January in Philadelphia is getting a neighborhood-wide upgrade as the Northern Liberties Business Improvement District and Fishtown District join forces for the first-ever Northern Liberties & Fishtown Dry January Bar Crawl, taking place Saturday, January 17 and Sunday, January 18, 2026. Spanning both vibrant neighborhoods, the two-day crawl will feature more than two dozen participating bars, restaurants, breweries, wineries, distilleries and hospitality spots, all offering creative, specially priced mocktails, zero proof cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the weekend. Participating locations will host Dry January–friendly happy hours, with many running from 11:00am to 4:00pm and Noon to 5:00pm, plus select earlier and later offerings depending on the venue. Designed to celebrate mindful drinking and our city’s growing zero proof beverage scene, without sacrificing fun, flavor or social connection, the crawl invites guests to explore Northern Liberties and Fishtown at their own pace – no tickets, wristbands or check-ins required. The event is also to inspire people to not just enjoy zero proof options during January but year-round. Thank you to promotional partner Aversa PR & Events.

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Ernest K. Marden, 70 of Audubon

On January 8, 2026, at the age of 70. Of Audubon. Formerly of Haddonfield and Collingswood. Predeceased by his wives, Donna Marden (nee Savage) and Michele Burch; daughter, Jennipher Marden and his parents, Ernest D. Marden and Anne M. Marden (nee Brown). Survived by his siblings, Timothy Marden (Patty), Robert Phelps (Pat Rutherford), Nancy Smith (Arthur) and Michael Phelps; grandchildren Noah and Elijah, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Saturday afternoon, January 24th, 2026 from 1 to 2:30 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City, where his funeral service will be celebrated at 2:30 PM. Interment will be private in Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson.

Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Ernest K. Marden. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCann-Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Ernest K. Marden, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

Federal Court Terminates Multiple Sections of Consent Decree as NJDOC Achieves Key Reform Milestones

On January 12, 2026, the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey granted a joint motion to terminate six critical sections of the federal consent decree overseeing the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC). The order recognizes that the State has successfully implemented and sustained sweeping reforms in areas ranging from high-tech surveillance to prisoner privacy and staff training.

The motion, filed jointly by the United States Department of Justice and the State of New Jersey, marks a turning point in the oversight process that began in 2021. The Court found “good cause” to end federal monitoring in these specific areas based on the Department’s documented progress.

“Today’s ruling is a powerful testament to the tireless dedication of our staff and our unwavering commitment to upholding the safety and constitutional rights of every person in our care,” said Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq. “With 12 of the 17 sections now terminated, we have proven that these reforms are not just checklist items, but are fundamental to our daily operations. While we celebrate these milestones, we remain focused on completing our obligations and ensuring these standards serve as the permanent foundation for the NJDOC.”

Since 2021, the NJDOC has undergone a comprehensive transformation to meet the rigorous standards of the Federal Monitor. Key successes cited in the motion to terminate include:

• Modernizing Surveillance & Safety: The Department invested $1.6 million in a state-of-the-art camera system. Beyond hardware, the NJDOC fully implemented body-worn cameras for staff and established strict weekly inspection protocols and video retention rules to ensure accountability.

• Enhanced Training Standards: A new, federally approved training plan was launched, delivering trauma informed and gender-informed instruction to custody staff, civilians, and volunteers. This includes practical, scenario-based training to ensure safety and dignity standards are applied in real-life situations.

• Protecting Privacy & Dignity: Physical upgrades have been completed across facilities, including the installation of privacy stalls for changing and confidential booths for legal and personal phone calls. Policies now mandate trauma-informed strip search practices and expanded “cover-up” announcements.

• Preventing Retaliation: To ensure a culture of safety, the NJDOC established robust monitoring systems to protect those who report sexual abuse or harassment. Ongoing education—including monthly staff newsletters and prisoner education programs—reinforces confidentiality and reporting protections.

• Expanding Language Access: For Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals, the NJDOC introduced new forms of identification to help staff instantly recognize language needs. The Department also ensured that all disciplinary hearings include full interpretation and translated documentation.

• Commitment to Transparency: The NJDOC has maintained a high standard of public accountability by holding semi-annual public meetings, publishing regular compliance reports, and maintaining full cooperation with the Federal Monitor.

On November 18, 2024, the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey granted a joint motion to terminate six substantive sections of the 2021 Consent Decree overseeing the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility. The motion ended federal oversight in areas including: Prisoner Supervision, Prisoner Education, Reporting Allegations of Sexual Assault, Response to Allegations of Sexual Assault, Physical Plant, and Implementation. This request was granted based on the facility’s ability to achieve and maintain “substantial compliance” for at least one year, as verified by five separate reports from the Federal Monitor. For more information on the Settlement Agreement and Monitor Reports can be found here: https://www.nj.gov/corrections/FederalMonitorReports/index.shtml.

Team Boxing League Brings Season IV National Tryouts to Bally’s Atlantic City

Bally’s Atlantic City will become the epicenter of competitive boxing when Team Boxing League (TBL) hosts official Season IV national tryouts from noon until 9 p.m. from Friday, Jan. 16 through Sunday, Jan. 18 in the Traymore Ballroom. The three-day event will welcome elite amateur and professional fighters from across the country, all competing for the chance to earn a coveted spot on a Team Boxing League roster. The event will be open to the public, giving boxing fans a front-row opportunity to witness top-tier athletes in action firsthand.

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South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas Offer Winter StormTips

Winter is here and, as storms move in, South Jersey Gas and
Elizabethtown Gas, subsidiaries of SJI, provide tips aimed to keep customers safe through the winter
season.
“We think it’s important to be proactive by offering our customers tips on how to plan for winter
storms,” said Craig Stewart, vice president, safety and shared services, SJI Utilities. “As a trusted
community partner, our customers need to be aware of how they can protect themselves and their
families this winter season.”
South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas offer the following tips to help customers prepare for the
possibility of winter storms.
Prepare your home:
 Insulate your home to prevent heat loss and drafty areas.
 Keep extra blankets, flashlights, water, and a supply of non-perishable food readily available.
 Have a generator on standby, but keep it outdoors.
Clear the area around your gas meter:
 Check your gas meter, especially after storms, to ensure it’s free from debris, ice, snow, or other
blockages.
 Gently remove snow buildup around and on top of the meter using a broom or your
hands—avoid using a shovel, as it could damage the meter.
 Prevent ice from accumulating on the meter by ensuring that gutters or other sources of dripping
water are not directed at it.
 Ensure that paths to the meter are free of obstacles, such as snow piles.
Clear snow safely:
 When shoveling snow, take breaks to avoid overexertion.
 Push snow instead of lifting it, and avoid twisting your back while shoveling.
 Use a snow blower with caution, and keep hands and feet clear of moving parts.
Prepare for power outages:
 Charge your electronic devices and have extra batteries on hand.
 Keep a supply of bottled water in case pipes freeze or the water supply is interrupted.

Be safe and smart with natural gas:
 While natural gas lines are underground and generally well-protected, they can still be damaged
during severe weather events. However, if your gas lines or service is disrupted, follow these
safety tips:
o Never attempt to turn your gas off or on by yourself.
o Knowing the location of your natural gas meter during an emergency will be helpful if a
South Jersey Gas or Elizabethtown Gas technician needs to quickly access it.
o If you smell natural gas — which has been treated to smell like rotten eggs —
immediately leave the area without using any electrical switches, appliances, phones, or
creating any source of ignition. Once at a safe location away from the building, call 911
and then contact South Jersey Gas at 1-800-582-7060 or Elizabethtown Gas at 1-800-
492-4009. Do not re-enter the premises until authorized by emergency responders or
utility personnel.

For more safety tips please visit South Jersey Gas – Committed to Safety or Elizabethtown Gas –
Committed to Safety.

Camden County Prosecutor’s Office Adds New Detective

Camden, NJ – Welcome to the team! The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office has hired a new detective, announced Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay.

On Monday, January 12, 2026, Detective Michael Famular was sworn in by Prosecutor MacAulay before First Assistant Prosecutor Timothy Chatten, Chief of Detectives Robert Ferris, Chief of Staff Michael Mangold, and Deputy Chief of Detectives Randall MacNair.

Detective Famular joins the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office after having most recently served as a police officer with the Haddon Heights Police Department since 2014. Prior to that, he spent time working for the North Wildwood Police Department. He is a graduate of the University of Scranton.

Shea Andrew O’Donnell, 37, of Gloucester City

Shea Andrew O’Donnell, age 37, of Gloucester City, New Jersey, passed away surrounded by his loving family on January 11, 2026 at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden, New Jersey.

Born on November 1, 1988, Shea was a lifelong resident of Gloucester City and a graduate of Gloucester City High School. He earned his associate’s degree from Gloucester County Community College and was employed by UPS as a driver in Lawnside, New Jersey. Shea was known for his quick wit, easygoing nature, and the way he could always make people laugh — he always had a joke ready. Those who knew him will remember his humor, loyalty, and the deep love he had for his family and friends.

Sports were an important part of Shea’s life. He played football growing up with the Gloucester City Mustangs, baseball with Gloucester City Little League basketball with the Carmen Palmero Basketball League in Gloucester City and swam for the Gloucester City Swim team. During his high school years, Shea was an outstanding football and track athlete at Gloucester City High School.

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Missing Juvenile-Steven Boardly, Jr.

(Camden, NJ) – The Camden County Police Department is looking for a missing 15-year-old from Whitman Park.

Steven Boardley Jr. has been reported missing from the 1700 block of Mount Ephraim Avenue. He is described as a Hispanic male, 6’2”, 168 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black bubble jacket, gray shirt and beige sandals and carrying a black backpack. He is known to frequent Palmyra, Willingboro and Cinnaminson.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the CCPD tip line at (856) 757-7042.

Why Is Location Critical When Selecting Startup Office Spaces?

Selecting the appropriate office space for a startup is an important decision. Executive staff frequently fail to appreciate how location shapes the perception of a company among its stakeholders, its culture, productivity levels, and growth. By carefully weighing this decision, founders can ensure that their business enjoys both short- and long-term rewards. Learning why and how office location matters will help startups find their way to long-term success.

Accessibility for Employees

Talent acquisition and retention are possible when you have an easy-to-access office. Convenience reduces commute time and increases job satisfaction, which is important for employees. Choosing a site that’s close to a city’s main transportation points ensures that employees can arrive and leave on time. Startup office spaces that are more accessible to prospective employees help them clock in on time and enable them to maintain a work-life balance. Attendance and morale become problems for companies that are too far from public transportation.

Impressing Clients and Partners

Business relationships are shaped from the first encounter. Office spaces located in well-known or upscale areas give clients, investors, and partners a reassuring signal of stability and professionalism. Being around other stable firms or in a city’s banking districts strengthens credibility and builds trust. A good business address often reassures stakeholders and brings the company a host of business opportunities. We know that clients prefer this ease of access, as meetings can be held, increasing the overall productivity of a company.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

The location of a startup influences its professional networking. Proximity to similar businesses creates opportunities for informal networking. Startups can also share resources with like-minded companies. Events, workshops, and networking sessions often take place at locations adjacent to innovation hubs. Such meet-ups facilitate sharing and collaboration. When a company is located close to potential partners or mentors, it can grow rapidly by creating strategic alliances and joint ventures.

Cost Considerations

Companies with a strategic location enjoy several advantages, but the cost of operating in a fancy location is often high. Startups usually have budget constraints. Though inexpensive spaces may seem attractive, investing in a posh office is crucial for future growth. An office that is located in a cheaper commercial district may lower your company’s brand perception. Operating out of a good yet affordable location is a smart move for young firms. New businesses may benefit from financial incentives or grants available to companies operating in cost-effective commercial areas.

Impact on Brand Identity

The location of a company reflects and shapes its brand image. A trendy neighbourhood brings innovation and modern thinking, while a traditional area might suggest stability and reliability. If your company is located where your clients or potential hires are, it shapes their perception of your company. Impactful spaces echo the values of a company and help the company attract the audience it seeks. A good location that aligns with your business goals helps reinforce your brand message.

Scalability and Future Growth

When selecting office spaces, consider future expansions to avoid moving to a new location later. Commercial districts or spaces offer better growth opportunities compared to other areas. For example, landlords with properties that have vacant units can offer flexible leases so companies can expand easily. Startups that predict their future needs have an easier transition when they need to scale later. A solid plan ensures long-term business and scalability goals can be met without operational disruptions.

Security and Safety

The well-being of employees is a priority. Opening offices in secure neighborhoods lowers safety risks and provides peace of mind. A safe working environment enhances productivity as the likelihood of theft or accidents is reduced. This also helps attract and retain talented personnel. Areas with a good safety record may also enjoy lower insurance costs.

Legal and Regulatory Factors

Some commercial areas must follow zoning ordinances or regulations, which can prove restrictive for some businesses. A startup office should ideally choose a place based on the rules applicable to it. Studying local regulations keeps fines and other issues at bay. In certain areas, tax incentives or grants are offered to support and encourage new businesses.

Conclusion

Location is one of the key components that impact a startup’s success. The right office creates an environment that facilitates growth, improves talent acquisition, and develops a positive image. Startups position themselves for long-term success by taking into consideration accessibility, amenities, cost, and brand consistency. A detailed analysis of these factors ensures that the selected office space aligns with the organization’s long-term goals.