Katz Introduces Bill Package to Address Youth Mental Health Risks Linked to Social Media

Assemblywoman Andrea Katz introduced and sponsored a three-bill legislative package aimed at addressing the growing youth mental health crisis by strengthening online protections for children and increasing accountability for social media platforms.

“As a mom of three teenagers, I see firsthand how central social media is to young people’s lives. It plays a role in all of our lives, and it’s not going anywhere, but we also know the consequences of spending too much time online. Families are seeing the impacts, from increased anxiety, depression, and eating disorders to disrupted sleep and harmful content reaching kids far too easily,” said Assemblywoman Katz (D-Atlantic, Burlington). “At a time when social media providers are focused on maximizing engagement, we need to prioritize the mental health of New Jersey’s youths. This package is about making online spaces safer for minors in an ever-changing digital landscape. It’s about warning users about real mental health risks and providing families and educators with the knowledge and information they need to keep minors safe when they’re online.”

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New Jersey Department of Corrections Welcomes Training Academy Graduates

On Tuesday, February 10, the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) welcomed Class 259 – 157 graduates of the Department’s Training Academy – into the Department’s ranks of Correctional Police Officers, the largest class since 2017. The graduation ceremony was held at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, where family and friends of the graduates were invited to attend the special event designed to honor Class 259’s hard work and accomplishments, as they begin their new careers at NJDOC.

“I am thrilled to congratulate this new cohort of correctional police officers on their graduation, and I wish them well as they enter the next stage of their careers,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “When I served as the Reentry Coordinator at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, I saw just how critical a role our correctional police officers play in the rehabilitation process. I commend these men and women for their dedication to creating a safe, stable environment for incarcerated individuals to pursue reentry.” “It is both a privilege and honor to welcome these exemplary officers of Class 259 to the New Jersey Department of Corrections,” said Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq. “Today, each of you become part of one of the country’s leading law enforcement agencies, and the largest law enforcement agency in the state of New Jersey. Our correctional police officers are the foundation by which our Department was built and operates – playing a vital role in preserving public safety, supporting meaningful rehabilitation and protecting communities throughout New Jersey. Each one of you reflects the core values of our Department, and we are honored to welcome you into our ranks.”

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Funeral Services for Camden Firefighter Howard Bennett

Family, friends, officials, and first responders from throughout the region will be attending a Celebration of Life service for Camden Fire Department Firefighter Howard Bennett today at 12:30 p.m. at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion.

Firefighter Howard Bennett, 60, of Maple Shade, passed away on February 5, 2026, while serving on Fire Boat 1. Howard was many things to many people: a firefighter of 26 years, a husband, a father, a protector, a teammate, a brother, and a friend. But to his family, he was simply Howard — a steady presence whose love and care made life feel safer just by being there. His humor, kindness, and support will be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.

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Brush Fire Threatens Farm Structures in Wicomico County; 50 Firefighters Respond

According to the press release, the fire destroyed a garage structure (above the arrow pointing to the rubble). The damaged vehicle is to the right of the rubble. There were no injuries. (photo provided)

SALISBURY, MARYLAND (CNBNews)–The Parsonsburg Volunteer Fire Company responded to a one‑alarm fire this afternoon after flames broke out on a farm along Twilley Bridge Road in Salisbury, Wicomico County. The alarm was dispatched at 2:31 PM on February 10, drawing a multi‑unit response from area firefighters.

According to the official report, the fire began in a brush pile and quickly spread, threatening a 30‑by‑40‑foot garage, a vehicle, and approximately 1.5 acres of surrounding brush. A passerby spotted the flames and called 911, allowing crews to arrive before the fire reached the main structures.

Roughly 50 firefighters from Parsonsburg and neighboring companies responded to the scene. Crews worked aggressively to contain the blaze, bringing it under control within 20 minutes despite dry conditions that allowed the fire to spread rapidly.

Investigators determined the cause to be accidental, tracing the ignition to a brush pile that grew out of control and extended to nearby structures.

No injuries were reported, and firefighters remained on scene afterward to extinguish hot spots and ensure the fire did not rekindle.

NJDOT Acting Commissioner Priya Jain Announces Juan Carlos Nordelo as Chief of Staff

New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Acting Commissioner Priya Jain today announced the appointment of Juan Carlos Nordelo as Chief of Staff, bringing extensive experience in public service, legislative leadership, nonprofit advocacy, and community engagement to the Department’s executive team.

“Juan Carlos brings a rare combination of policy expertise, operational perspective, and lived experience working directly with communities across New Jersey,” Acting Commissioner Jain said. “His ability to navigate complex issues, build partnerships across all levels of government, and focus on practical solutions will be a tremendous asset as NJDOT advances its mission to deliver safe, reliable, and resilient transportation systems for the people of New Jersey.”

As Chief of Staff, Nordelo will support the Acting Commissioner in advancing NJDOT’s strategic priorities, strengthening coordination across divisions and partner agencies, and ensuring the Department’s policy, operational, and community-focused efforts remain aligned and responsive to the needs of New Jersey residents.

“It is an honor to join NJDOT and support the critical work being done every day to keep New Jersey moving,” Nordelo said. “Throughout my career, I have focused on bringing people together, understanding the real challenges communities face, and turning those challenges into actionable solutions. I look forward to working with the talented professionals across this Department to continue advancing safety, resiliency, and quality of life for our residents.”

Most recently, Nordelo served as Chief of Staff and Policy Director to Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (19th District), where he led legislative strategy, managed the Assemblywoman’s policy portfolio, and developed legislation addressing affordability, safety, infrastructure, and quality of life for New Jersey families.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Rutgers University. He also holds a Master of Public Administration from Baruch College’s School of Public Affairs.

Juan Carlos lives in Cranford with his wife, Maria Luisa, and their young son, Sebastian.

Camden County Office of Emergency Management issues “Code Blue”

The Camden County Office of Emergency Management declared that Camden County will be under a Code Blue Advisory from for the following dates and times due to projected dangerously low temperatures by the National Weather Service:

Monday, February 9 7:00 a.m. – Tuesday, February 10 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 15°F
Tuesday, February 10 7:00 p.m. – Wednesday, February 11 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 28°F
Wednesday, February 11, 7:00 p.m. – Thursday, February 12 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 25°F
Thursday, February 12 7:00 p.m. – Friday, February 13 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 20°F
Friday, February 13 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, February 14 7:00 a.m.
• Projected temperature: 19°F

Code Blue Advisories are declared when the National Weather Service predicts that the temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or the wind chill temperature will be zero degrees Fahrenheit or lower for a period of two hours or more.

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Pennsauken Police Department Alert

Pennsauken Intermediate School

Pennsauken Police received the report that a comment was made about a shooting at the Intermediate School tomorrow. This report was investigated and it was determined that the threat was not credible and there is no enhanced risk to the safety of the students and staff. There will be an increased police presence at the school.

4 Hidden Costs of Everyday Accidents

Photo courtesy of Pexels

Everyday accidents, like slipping on a wet floor, being rear-ended in traffic, or tripping on pavement, can appear as a minor incident at first glance. While people usually focus only on their immediate medical bills or visible damage, these incidents frequently carry hidden costs that surface weeks or months later. To fully understand the true impact of an accident, it is essential to know these less obvious consequences. Read on to discover what they are.

Financial Loss from Missed Work and Reduced Productivity

Accidents frequently disrupt a person’s ability to work. Even mild injuries can require time off for rest, medical appointments, or rehabilitation. Workers without paid sick leave may lose income immediately, while self-employed individuals often experience even greater financial pressure when injuries prevent them from working.

In many cases, the impact does not end when a person returns to work. Ongoing pain, stiffness, or fatigue can reduce productivity and efficiency. Some individuals may struggle to perform physically demanding tasks or maintain previous workloads. Serious injuries may even force career changes or long-term work limitations.

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Cantey Scores 26 to Lead Rowan Men’s Basketball Over Ramapo, 73-65, on Senior Day

GLASSBORO, NJ – Taz Cantey scored a game-high 26 points and Brycen Williams had 16 as Rowan picked up a 73-65 win over Ramapo on men’s basketball Senior Day at Esby Gym. Cantey, Williams and Chris McCarron were honored prior to the game for Senior Day while the Profs earned their fifth consecutive win and improved to 9-6 in the NJAC, and 9-13 overall.

Cantey made four three-pointers and recorded his third straight game of 20-plus points and seventh of the season. Khalil Baker posted his sixth double-double of the year, and second straight, with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

A 9-0 run in the opening minutes of the second half, with four points from Williams and three from Cantey, propelled the Profs to the win. The spurt gave Rowan a 51-46 edge and the lead for good.

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Rev. Richard Timothy Kunzman, 89, of Washington, D.C.

Rev. Richard Timothy Kunzman, 89, of Washington D.C., passed away peacefully with his caregiver, Armando Almada, at his side. He was born on October 15, 1936, in Morristown, New Jersey, the beloved son of the late Charles Kunzman and Mary Helen (Coleman) Kunzman.

Father Kunzman devoted his life to the service of God and others through the Catholic Church. Ordained to the priesthood, he spent decades in ministry offering spiritual guidance, pastoral care and compassionate outreach to individuals and communities in need. He was most recently affiliated with Cross International Catholic Outreach in Boca Raton, Florida where he continued his Catholic mission of Time, Talent and Treasure.

A man of deep intellect and devotion, Father Kunzman earned a Doctorate in Ministry, reflecting both his academic excellence and his lifelong commitment to pastoral leadership. Known for his kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit, Father Kunzman touched countless lives. He was deeply loved as a friend, mentor, and spiritual guide, and will be remembered for making the world feel brighter through his presence, wisdom, and compassion. Father Kunzman chose a life wholly devoted to his vocation and to the people he served. He is predeceased by his parents, one brother and one sister and is survived by nieces and many friends whose lives were enriched by his ministry.