Author: ECCYC

Good Wednesday morning!

So Steve Sweeney is saying he’s running for governor out loud. I confirmed what David Wildstein first reported: That at a union convention in Atlantic City Tuesday, Sweeney acknowledged what he’s thus far hinted at.

The outgoing Senate president‘s defeat last month may have been the biggest New Jersey political upset in recent memory, but he never stopped acting like a candidate for governor. He’s even borrowing a page out of the Phil Murphy playbook and talking about starting a think tank.

But you don’t need me to tell you all that can happen in four years. Maybe he’ll run. But the 2017 Democratic primary between Steve Sweeney and Steve Fulop, or lack thereof, is a reminder of just how unpredictable this all is. Still, this isn’t the longest lead time for anyone running. With former GOP nominee Jack Ciattarelli’s declaration at his concession speech last month that he will run again in 2025, he’s been running for governor almost nonstop since 2016.

That said, being the actual Senate president is helpful in locking up support from New Jersey’s various Democratic factions, since you’re in a position to do them a lot of favors. Even with George Norcross behind Sweeney, it’s going to be a lot more challenging, especially when much of the Democratic base is outright hostile to him and his public sector-benefit-cutting ways.

WHERE’S MURPHY? Rutgers Medical School at University Hospital for an 11 a.m. vaccine event

QUOTE OF THE DAY: “I am truly honored to have the endorsement of General Flynn.” — 11th District Republican House candidate Robert Kovic on securing the endorsement of the former general, pardoned perjurer and coup suggester.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY — State Sen. Joe Lagana, Kivvit’s Megan Cryan, NJEA’s Michael Giglio

TIPS? FEEDBACK? HATE MAIL? Email me at [email protected]

PROGRAMMING NOTE — NJ Playbook will be on a two-week hiatus starting Monday Dec. 20. I’ll be back in your inbox on Jan. 3. But I’ll still be reporting. So don’t stop emailing me.

COVID SCORE — Nearly two years into the Covid-19 pandemic, we’re beginning to get enough data to evaluate how well states handled the crisis. Each state shaped its own response differently, and you can see the results in POLITICO’s State Pandemic Scorecard. See how New Jersey and other states fared here.

MASK EFFECT — ‘They’re sick of masks’: Democratic governors fight Covid fatigue, by POLITICO’s Zach Montellaro: Asked in an interview about his November close call, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy attributed it to “a lot of folks who are frustrated, is my guess.” In his most candid assessment of his 3-point victory to date, Murphy said some New Jerseyans “feel like government is not connecting with them. They’re sick of masks, being told what to do in terms of vaccines, probably not thrilled with what they sense is going on in Washington, they may have lost a job or a business that went bust — or a loved one, worse yet.” Murphy said his political operation would be launching a series of focus groups in the coming week to draw deeper lessons on his narrow victory in November. For many Democrats, the answer is already apparent: The start of the pandemic may have sent governors’ approval ratings shooting through the roof, but its durability is an existential threat to their power across the map, from traditional battleground states to even reliably Democratic territory like Virginia and New Jersey. According to interviews with a half-dozen Democratic governors at and leading up to the conference, along with conversations with senior party aides and consultants, the party needs to find a message that acknowledges voters’ exasperation with the virus and its economic and societal impacts.”

MOUNT HOLLYWOOD — Latest bill to expand New Jersey’s film tax credit program moving quickly in Assembly, by POLITICO’s Matt Friedman: A bill to expand New Jersey’s film and digital tax credit program is advancing rapidly through the Assembly and is poised for a vote in the full chamber, just months after another major expansion of the program. The bill, NJ A6070 (20R), sponsored by Assemblymember Gordon Johnson (D-Bergen), cleared the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee on Dec. 6 by a vote of 8-0 with two abstentions. The Assembly Appropriations Committee advanced the measure, 9-2, on Monday. The legislation has not yet advanced in the Senate, where it’s sponsored by outgoing Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg. While film tax credit programs have critics, nobody spoke against the bill in either of the committee meetings. The two lawmakers who voted against it — Jay Webber (R-Morris) and Kevin Rooney (R-Passaic) — did not share their reasons.

GARDEN STATE’S LACK OF INTIATIVE — “NJ public pensions face fiscal peril as new police and fire retirees grow: report says,” by The Record’s Dustin Racioppi: “New Jersey’s pension system for public employees costs more than most other states while offering ‘generous’ benefits that are increasingly going toward more retirees than active employees, according to a new report. One retirement fund, for police and firefighters, had more people collecting pension benefits in 2019 than current workers, and two others were on a similar trajectory — meaning those funds are less able to handle investments risks, the analysis by the fiscally conservative think tank Garden State Initiative found. All this is despite years of increasing payments by the state that reached a record of nearly $7 billion this year. Without making policy changes for tens of thousands of public employees, New Jersey’s political leaders will likely face difficult choices on how to use taxpayer dollars to stabilize the pension funds, the group said.”

GONNA WANT IT IN THE WANT ADS — “NJ Transit’s job ad for new customer advocate is missing investigative power legislature wants,” by NJ Advance Media’s Larry Higgs: “After more than a year of waiting, NJ Transit commuters finally found out how the agency’s customer advocate will represent them in a job description that was posted for potential candidates. Two different versions of what a customer advocate should do to represent riders have emerged. Legislation calls for a position independent from the agency with the power to investigate. NJ Transit’s version has more customer-oriented duties, but less investigative power … Not all of the duties outlined in State Senate majority leader Loretta Weinberg’s ‘NJ Transit reform 2.0’ legislation are included in NJ Transit’s customer advocate job description and one commuter group is skeptical. Missing from the job description are some of the boarder powers in Weinberg’s legislation that was passed by the Senate last week. The future of that bill is bleak as time winds down before the Jan. 10 end of the legislative session.”

MURPHY ADMIN HIRES CONSULTANT THAT ISN’T MCKINSEY — “N.J. hires consultant to help shut down troubled women’s prison,” by NJ Advance Media’s Joe Atmonavage: “The New Jersey Department of Corrections has hired a consultant to assist with the closure of the state’s troubled women’s prison, which Gov. Phil Murphy said he intended to shut down after years of rampant sexual abuse and a violent attack on a handful of women earlier this year. The Department of Corrections said it hired Steve Carter, a correctional planning and design consultant, ‘to assist with the relocation of Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women’ to a new facility. Carter is the executive vice president of CGL Companies, a South Carolina-based company that specializes in planning, design, maintenance and operations of correctional facilities.”

—Bill to save the New Jersey School of Conservation introduced

—“South Jersey lawmaker [Moriarty] backs smoke-free casino efforts”

—Sass Rubin: “What Happened?: In New Jersey’s election, Democrats maintained control of the state, but redistricting could cause headaches for them in Congress”

—“N.J.’s COVID activity map is all orange, again. Here’s what it means for school quarantines”

—“Highlands plan says growth depends on environmental quality”

—“Bill expanding SNAP to more college students advances”

‘TO THE WALL THAT SLAMMED INTO ME: I KNOW WHERE YOU ARE AND I WON’T FORGET YOU’ — “Menendez slips, fractures shoulder in rush to get to U.S. Senate floor for vote,” by NJ Advance Media Jonathan B. Salant: “His Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing had ended and a vote awaited, so Robert Menendez darted across the U.S. Capitol to reach the Senate floor. But en route, the New Jersey senator slipped and crashed into a wall, fracturing and dislocating his right shoulder, the side he writes with. He said he expects to be on the injury list for at least six weeks and might need surgery … ‘I’m going to survive and I’m one tough son of a bitch, so this too will pass,’ he said afterwards.”

—“After unemployment woes slammed residents during COVID crisis, N.J. and feds move to fix system”

—Moran: “Mikie Sherrill’s innocent mistake”

—Pallone and O’Malley: “We have a once-in-a-generation chance to clean up our most dangerous toxic waste sites”

—Snowflack: “What do the CD5 endorsements actually mean?”

—“Man caught with arsenal of weapons, white supremacy propaganda sentenced to federal prison”

PRICK CITY — “Feed the hungry? You’ll need a permit for that,” by The New York Times’ Andy Newman: “A few days before Thanksgiving, [Newark] sent out an email to churches and relief organizations announcing that it was prohibiting feeding homeless people in public places, including parks and the train station. After inquiries from The New York Times about the policy, the city shifted and said that groups who give out food would need a permit and that the new rule would be specifically targeted at those who give food to the homeless … Putting restrictions on perhaps the most fundamental act of human charity, feeding the hungry, may seem harsh. But many places do it. According to a 2019 report from the National Homelessness Law Center, at least 17 cities across the country either ban giving out food in public areas or require permits for it, some with onerous conditions attached. Tristia Bauman, a senior attorney at the law center, said that by singling out homeless people, Newark’s ordinance could violate the 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause and also impinge food donors’ First Amendment rights, since courts have found that food sharing is a form of protected speech … Newark officials offered various reasons for the crackdown, saying that the city needed to ensure that food being given out was safe, and that distributing food in public places actually encouraged street homelessness. The city wants those who wish to donate food to bring it to shelters and soup kitchens instead. But the shifting ground also reflects a struggle over marquee public space.”

WALL OF SILENCE — “District stayed silent as football hazing scandal erupted. Inside an N.J. town that protects its own,” by NJ Advance Media’s Matthew Stanmyre: “It was the biggest game of the football season for Wall High School, the evening when the Crimson Knights opened the playoffs in front of their home crowd … But this wasn’t any other year at Wall: On Nov. 5, the student section in the home bleachers was virtually empty … students had refused to show up and support the team in protest of serious allegations of misconduct involving players. The demonstration marked the first outward, public sign that something serious was amiss at Wall High School … But there had been others — two video clips of alleged hazing among players had surfaced around Oct. 31, starting their virtual proliferation from cell phone to cell phone. And the week leading up to the playoff game, parents of players learned from their sons that the team had abruptly changed its locker room procedure, requiring freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors to enter separately during different times to get changed for practice, according to team parents. Despite mounting evidence that something was wrong at Wall, the first official acknowledgment didn’t come until Nov. 9 — roughly a full week after the locker room procedure changed and two weeks after rumors began circulating — when NJ Advance Media first reported the district and police were investigating allegations of hazing within the football program. Two days later, sources also confirmed law enforcement was investigating sexual assaults of multiple female students from Wall in a probe unrelated to the hazing accusations.”

—“Seven students suspended in Wall High School football hazing probe face hearings”

LONG GETS SHORT SENTENCE — “Ex-Cumberland freeholder gets 14 months for quarter-million in tax evasion,” by BreakingAC’s Lynda Cohen: “A former Cumberland County freeholder was sentenced to 14 months in prison for evading more than a quarter-million dollars in federal taxes from his law firm. Douglas Long, 55, of Upper Deerfield, was managing partner for the Woodbury-based Long & Marmero, and had primary control over the firm’s finances and supervised their bookkeeper, according to the charges. Long paid personal expenses out of the firm’s accounts, including tuition for his children, student loans for him and his spouse, and utilities and service fees at his personal residences, acting U.S. Attorney Rachel Honig said.”

APPARENTLY THE PANDEMIC CAUSED VERY LITTLE PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA — “Why Paterson may lose part of $1.2 million federal COVID relief funds,” by The Paterson Press’ Joe Malinconico: “City officials are in danger of losing much of the $1.2 million in federal COVID-19 relief money they earmarked for mental health counseling because so few people have signed up for the services. The grant provided enough money for 1,000 Paterson residents to get eight free virtual counseling sessions, but just 10 residents have registered for the ‘Well Being For Me’ initiative since it started in September, officials said.”

HOW ARE THE STUDENTS SUPPOSED TO CONCENTRATE ON MEMORIZING THE LITTLE RED BOOK? — “Montclair students bundled up in cold classrooms as HVAC system upgrades are delayed,” by The Record’s Julia Martin: “With the transmission of COVID’s new variants a big concern and no ventilation systems in most district buildings, teachers are opening windows to get air circulating. But aging boilers mean the heat can’t be cranked too high, and the result can be freezing classrooms and distracted students. ‘The windows are open, the heat is not sufficient, our children are cold, our teachers are cold, it is not conducive to learning,’ said Board of Education member Kathryn Weller-Demming, who is also a public school parent, at a December meeting.”

RELIEF, BUT ONLY TEMPORARY — “Company wants facility in Kearny to convert human waste into commercial products. The mayor says the plan stinks,’ by The Jersey Journal’s Jake Maher: “A proposed facility for processing ‘biosolids’ — or solid human waste — in Kearny is on hold for now, but the battle residents are waging against the project is far from over. The state Department of Environmental Protection told Aries Clean Technologies, the company behind the project, that it failed to give enough advance notice for a legally required public hearing on the project. Aries was required to give 30 days’ notice; instead, it only gave five day’s formal notice for the Dec. 13 meeting. The hearing was cancelld with no new date set, and since Aries can’t get the DEP permitting it needs without it, Kearny residents have a reprieve. But the project has set off warning bells in the town, where residents are angry at being asked to shoulder the burden of another major industrial facility. ‘It is embarrassing that we have to defend ourselves against these kinds of uses in 2021, when there’s nothing positive, there’s absolutely nothing positive, that comes out of this,’ Kearny Mayor Al Santos said.”

—“Massive 1,200-unit apartment complex with a ferry to NYC just got the OK in Edgewater”

—“Counties to vote on 10-year deal that would send Passaic prisoners to the Bergen jail”

—“Faculty member with lung damage from COVID sues [Essex County] college for right to work remotely”

—“[Franklin] Township may stay with virtual meetings into 2022, move cleared with governor”

—“Recreation for inmates debated as Cumberland County jail drama continues”

—“Election recount yields same outcome for $33M school proposal”

WAKE UP, MAGGIE, I THINK I GOT SOMETHING TO EMAIL YOU — “PR exec connected to Andrew Cuomo sex-harass defense leaves job,” by The New York Post’s Theo Wayt: “Maggie Moran, Cuomo’s 2018 reelection campaign manager and a current managing partner at swanky PR firm Kivvit, was in the governor’s mansion in February when accuser Lindsey Boylan published a blog post saying that the then-governor kissed her without her consent and asked her to play strip poker on a taxpayer-funded jet, according to testimony from Cuomo confidante Steve Cohen. Moran was also included in group messages where other Cuomo staffers and allies plotted how to discredit Boylan and kill news coverage of the governor’s pervy behavior, according to documents recently released by Attorney General Letitia James … Despite Moran’s inclusion in weeks of messages, she insisted in a statement to The Post that she never responded with any advice about the sexual harassment claims or participated in any calls about the issue. ‘I can not control being included in an email,’ Moran told The Post. ‘In fact, I repeatedly asked to be removed from emails regarding the sexual assault allegations detailed in the Attorney General’s report and never engaged in those communications. When asked to join calls regarding allegations of sexual assault, I chose not to participate in them — every time.’ Moran’s claim that she asked to be removed from the email threads does not appear to be supported by any of the messages released by the attorney general.”

SORRY, BUT I CAN’T THINK OF A POLITICS-RELATED HEADLINE FOR AN ARTICLE ABOUT TRAFFIC IN FORT LEE — “The worst U.S. bottleneck for trucks is in N.J., and it’s slowing delivery of your stuff,” by NJ Advance Media’s Larry Higgs: “The Garden State is number one, again, for the worst truck traffic bottleneck in America on I-95 at Route 4 in Fort Lee, the gateway to and from the George Washington Bridge, according to ‘The U.S. Freight Network’s Critical Role in the Supply Chain,’ an annual report by TRIP, a national non-profit transportation research group. Drivers are going nowhere fast in this section of highway — where the average speed ranges from 30 mph to 39 mph when it’s moving , the report said. The New Jersey bottleneck tops a list of the nation’s 100 worst, according to the American Transportation Research Institute’s (ATRI) annual list of the top 100 truck bottlenecks in the nation. It also comes at a time when there is a global focus on the supply chain — ranging from ships to trains to trucks — bringing goods and groceries to store shelves. Another similar South Jersey bottleneck made the worst 100 — the junction of I-76 at I-676 in Gloucester City that leads to the Walt Whitman Bridge to and from Philadelphia.”

—“An earth-sheltered office in Cherry Hill shows the roots of green building”

There’s nothing more exciting for a kid then waking up on Christmas morning before the sunrises and opening up all the gifts that Santa Claus and Mom and Dad and their siblings got for them right there under the tree.

Maybe your kids even go into your room and jump on your bed yelling “it’s Christmas!” which means no matter what time it is, you know right then and there you have to go to the living room and let them open up their gifts.

Perhaps traditions are similar and slightly different in your house at Christmastime and on the big day itself, and if they are, that’s okay, but if things need to change for one reason or another, it’s important to help your kids understand why a change is needed.

“We can remember how things were in the past in a nice way like we can remember those traditions and be realistic at the same time about how things might be different now,” Dr. Stacy Doumas, Chief of the Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, tells Townsquare Media News. “Maybe we can’t get together with as many family members because of Covid, maybe because of some of the supply chain issues — maybe presents are going to be a little different this year — and we can acknowledge the feelings in our children that might arise because of the that are going to be a little different this year and we can empathize with our kids.”

When you’re able to take the time to explain to your kids why things might be different this year whether it’s presents or seeing family members or something else, Dr. Doumas explains that you should turn to help getting them excited about what is going to happen and what you do have.

“That might mean some of our old traditions and some ways of connecting with family and friends are the same and it might mean some new traditions that they can get excited about and maybe they could even help come up with them,” Doumas said. “I think that’s one of the things that we can really do is figure out how to get excited about now and some of that might be in ways that really celebrate the spirit of the season which is the spirit of giving and kindness for others.”

Some of the ways of participating in those kids of traditions, Dr. Doumas adds, include volunteerism or another way where the kids can give of themselves and share in their time with others.

The age of your children will determine what verbiage to use in conversing the changes with them — be it under 10 or perhaps in the pre-teen or teen dialogue.

“Obviously with a teenager you can have a more honest conversation with them, but when you’re dealing with a younger child, they’re not going to understand that Santa might be having some supply chain issues this year,” Doumas said. “So, it’s going to be a little bit different of a conversation that you’re having so you really just want to focus them on kind of the spirit of giving, spending time with family and connecting and maybe get them rally excited about new traditions whether that’s a smaller gathering because a smaller gathering might give way to things like being able to wear Christmas PJ’s instead of getting dressed up or something like that.”

As for managing expectations over winter break, especially as we are still in a pandemic, there are some ways to help keep your kids healthy and safe while allowing them to have fun during that week off.

“If they’re eligible, they can get vaccinated, that’s obviously going to decrease the spread. They can also wear their mask and wash their hands often when they’re around other people and some people also choose to test so if anybody’s having any symptoms prior to a gathering, they can test to make sure — and there’s plenty of home test and you can go and get a test for Covid — you don’t have it before gathering with others,” Doumas said. “The other thing that’s also helpful is to really spend time while you’re connecting with people, because we want people to be connecting, to do that in ways that are safe. Maybe outdoors, the kids, as long as they’re dressed up warm, there’s plenty of activities that you can do outdoors and so avoiding some of those crowded indoor spaces. It’s also great to do things with the same people…maybe spending time with kids who are just in their class.”

Parents and students packed the Wall Township Board of Education meeting Tuesday night looking for answers regarding allegations of hazing among members of the high school football team.  They left angry and frustrated.

Nearly 100 community members packed into the high school cafeteria for a meeting that lasted over five hours. Some expressed sympathy for players that were not involved who got caught up in the scandal. Others called the incident “embarrassing.”

Members of the school board sat silent.

One female student, her voice shaking with emotion, told the board, “I personally am terrified to go to school now. It’s scary to walk through these hallways knowing there are people who are being assaulted.”

“What about all the other kids who have been assaulted that you don’t know about yet?” she asked the board.

Again, the board said nothing.

The district has come under harsh criticism from some parents who insist the hazing incident simply underscores a larger pattern of abuse and bullying in the school and community.

Before the public comment period, Wall Schools Superintendent Tracy Handerhan asked community members and the media to “remember the matter at hand (hazing allegations) involves children.” As a result, Handerhan said she and the board were “legally precluded” from discussing any details of the alleged incident or the ongoing investigation.

The board meeting was held the same day it was revealed that seven students had been suspended 10 days for “hazing and conduct unbecoming a student.”

Before members of the community were invited to speak, the board approved several hires to replace personnel that had been placed on leave in connection with the hazing incident, but the board again offered no comment or open discussion on those matters.

Former state Superior Court Judge Deborah Gramiccioni, now a private practice attorney representing several Wall High School students, told New Jersey 101.5 “There appears to have been a rush to judgment” by school officials and worried kids not connected to the incident were being tarnished by it.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor continues to investigate the incident, but has brought no charges and has revealed no details.

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NEW JERSEY — Below you will find the most up-to-date information on coronavirus news impacting New Jersey. You can find additional resources and coverage on our coronavirus page.

US COVID-19 death toll hits 800,000

The U.S. death toll from COVID-19 topped 800,000 on Tuesday, a once-unimaginable figure seen as doubly tragic, given that more than 200,000 of those lives were lost after the vaccine became available last spring.

New US travel restrictions go into effect

Beginning Monday, Dec. 6, travelers heading to the U.S. will be required to show evidence of a negative COVID test within one day of boarding their flight instead of three days prior, regardless of their nationality or vaccination status. See what you need to know here.

Additionally, the TSA will extend the requirement to wear a mask on planes, trains, subways and other public transportation hubs including airports and bus terminals through the winter.

Scientists call omicron variant ‘most mutated’ version of virus

There’s one thing we keep hearing from the scientists who’ve gotten a close look at the omicron version of the virus: It’s really mutated. More mutations don’t necessarily make a virus more dangerous, but viruses evolve over time to increase their chance of survival, which can be bad for humans.

First omicron variant case confirmed in NJ, Murphy says

Gov. Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said New Jersey’s first omicron case was confirmed on Friday, Dec. 3, in a fully vaccinated woman who visited New Jersey from Georgia.

Omicron COVID variant identified in California; 1st known US case

The first known case of the omicron variant of COVID-19 was identified in California, the White House and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Dr. Anthony Fauci said the person was a traveler who returned from South Africa on Nov. 22 and tested positive on Nov. 29.

US panel backs first-of-a-kind COVID-19 pill from Merck

The Food and Drug Administration panel voted 13-10 that the antiviral drug’s benefits outweigh its risks, including potential birth defects if used during pregnancy.

How to pronounce the new COVID-19 variant

Omicron, the latest COVID-19 variant of concern designated by the World Health Organization, gets its name from a letter in the Greek alphabet. But unlike the alpha or delta variants before it, omicron might not roll off the tongue so naturally to English speakers.

Rising concerns over omicron variant

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said he expects COVID cases to rise until at least the new year, and he’s asking people to remain vigilant over the holiday season as both New Jersey and New York closely monitor for the first cases of the omicron variant.

Omicron variant prompts new US travel ban on South Africa, other nations

The United States’ ban on non-citizen travel from South Africa and seven additional African nations began on Monday, Nov. 29, due to omicron, a new COVID-19 variant of concern, White House officials said.

5 things to know about omicron, the new COVID ‘variant of concern’

The announcement of a COVID-19 variant called omicron by scientists in South Africa, where it was first detected, has sent governments and financial markets around the world reeling. Click here to learn more about what experts know about the new “variant of concern.”

What is this new omicron COVID variant in South Africa?

South African scientists have identified a new version of the coronavirus that they say is behind a recent spike in COVID-19 infections in Gauteng, the country’s most populous province. It’s unclear where the new variant actually arose, but it was first detected by scientists in South Africa and has also been seen in travelers to Belgium, Botswana, Hong Kong and Israel.

CDC approves expanding COVID-19 vaccine boosters to all adults

The U.S. on Friday, Nov. 19, opened COVID-19 booster shots to all adults and took the extra step of urging people 50 and older to seek one, aiming to ward off a winter surge as coronavirus cases rise even before millions of Americans travel for the holidays.

Pfizer agrees to let other companies make its COVID-19 pill

Pfizer said it would grant a license for the antiviral pill to the Geneva-based Medicines Patent Pool, which would let generic drug companies produce the pill for use in 95 countries, making up about 53% of the world’s population.

Getting a COVID vaccine before the holidays? Here are some key dates to know

Time is running out if you plan to be fully vaccinated against COVID by the holidays. Click here for the deadlines to be fully vaccinated before each holiday.

US lifts nearly 20-month international travel ban

More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the United Kingdom and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 8, bans on travel from specific countries ended. The U.S. will allow in international travelers, but they must be vaccinated — with a few exceptions.

The U.S. also reopened the land borders with Canada and Mexico for vaccinated people. Most trips from Canada and Mexico to the U.S. are by land rather than air.

US gives final clearance to COVID vaccine for kids 5 to 11

U.S. health officials on Tuesday, Nov. 2 gave the final signoff to Pfizer’s kid-size COVID-19 shot, a milestone that opens a major expansion of the nation’s vaccination campaign to children as young as 5.

The Food and Drug Administration already authorized the shots for children ages 5 to 11 — doses just a third of the amount given to teens and adults. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention formally recommends who should receive FDA-cleared vaccines.

Vaccinated just as likely to spread delta variant within household as unvaccinated: study

People who have received COVID-19 vaccinations are able to spread the delta variant within their household just as easily as unvaccinated individuals, a new study published on Friday, Oct. 29, shows.

Child tax credit 2022: What we know so far

As inner-party conflict continues to shave off elements of President Joe Biden’s sweeping domestic policy package, there may be good news for parents. While it’s unclear what the ultimate bill will include, Democrats arrived at a framework Thursday, Oct. 28, that included a one-year extension of the expanded child tax credit.

Moderna says its low-dose COVID shot safe, effective for kids 6 to 11

Moderna said on Oct. 25 that a low dose of its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and appears to work in 6- to 11-year-olds, as the manufacturer moves toward expanding shots to children.

FDA says Pfizer COVID vaccine looks effective for young kids

Federal health regulators said late Friday, Oct. 22, that kid-size doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine appear highly effective at preventing symptomatic infections in elementary school children and caused no unexpected safety issues, as the U.S. weighs beginning vaccinations in youngsters.

NJ among top vaccinated states in U.S.

New Jersey is among the top 10 states in the country with the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates at 74%. Helping to lead the charge is Paterson, which has a 90% vaccination rate.

COVID vaccine mandate for state workers, teachers begins

Many state employees returned to in-person work on Monday, Oct. 18, the same day Gov. Phil Murphy’s requirement for them to either be vaccinated against COVID-19 or submit to regular virus testing went into effect. The vaccine or test mandate also applies to teachers in New Jersey.

IRS sending October installment of child tax credit after delay in September

Families across the country are starting to receive their October child tax credit. The IRS says the program’s fourth monthly payment is already hitting Americans’ bank accounts after a technical issue last month caused delays for some recipients. 

New COVID safety guidance for the holidays released by the CDC

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention released updated COVID-19 safety guidance for the holiday season on Friday, Oct. 15, including getting vaccinated, wearing a mask indoors if you’re not vaccinated and avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.

Rutgers team tries to understand ‘brain fog’ COVID connection

Dr. William Hu, the Chief of the Division of Cognitive Neurology at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, is leading a team trying to figure out what brain fog is and how it’s connected to COVID-19.

FDA endorsement essentially calls for Johnson & Johnson to be 2-shot vaccine

An FDA panel unanimously recommended a Johnson and Johnson booster vaccine on Friday, Oct. 15.  The terms of the endorsement essentially call for the J&J COVID-19 vaccine to be a two-dose shot, rather than the one-dose shot for which it’s been known since it first got emergency use authorization last spring.

The panel called for a second shot to be available to people 18 and older, at least two months after the first shot.

FDA panel recommends Moderna booster shot, but the process isn’t over

A panel of medical experts affiliated with the Food and Drug Administration endorsed a COVID vaccine booster from Moderna on Thursday, Oct. 14. The panel recommended a half dose as a booster.  

Need to be vaccinated by Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or Christmas? Here are the deadlines

People who want to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or Christmas are running out of time. Two of the three vaccines available in the U.S. require two doses spread weeks apart and a waiting period once the shots have been administered.

Vice President Kamala Harris visits NJ day care, vaccination site

Vice President Kamala Harris made a stop in New Jersey on Friday, Oct. 8, to discuss the state’s latest vaccination efforts. She visited a day care center to highlight child care provisions in the president’s spending proposal as well as a vaccination site at Essex Community College.

Children will feel impact of pandemic on mental health for years: UNICEF report

UNICEF released a critical report on Friday, Oct. 8, which found that children and young people could feel the impact of the pandemic on their mental health for many years to come.

COVID vaccine for kids: Doctor answers your questions

The Pfizer vaccine for kids could be on the market in about a month after the drug maker filed for FDA authorization Thursday, Oct. 7, for their shot for kids ages 5 to 11.

However, many parents still have questions about the children’s COVID vaccine. Dr. Sallie Permar, the head of pediatrics at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, joined the PIX11 Morning News on Friday, Oct. 8, to share more information and answer some of the biggest questions.

Pfizer’s request to OK shots for kids a relief for parents

Parents tired of worrying about classroom outbreaks and sick of telling their elementary school-age children no to sleepovers and family gatherings felt a wave of relief Thursday, Oct. 7, when Pfizer asked the U.S. government to authorize its COVID-19 vaccine for youngsters ages 5 to 11.

U.S. hits 700,000 COVID deaths just as cases begin to fall

The United States reached its latest heartbreaking pandemic milestone Friday, Oct. 1, eclipsing 700,000 deaths from COVID-19 just as the surge from the delta variant is starting to slow down and give overwhelmed hospitals some relief.

NJ leaders take on ‘Mayors Vaccine Challenge’

Two New Jersey mayors are going head-to-head in an effort to get more people vaccinated against COVID-19. It’s all part of the ongoing vaccination campaign in the Garden State that has already propelled it as one of the nation’s leaders in the fight against COVID-19. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh is squaring off with Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora in what the state is calling the “Mayors Vaccine Challenge.”

New Jersey surpasses 1 million COVID-19 cases

As of Tuesday, Sept. 28, more than 1 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in New Jersey since the pandemic reached the state in 2020.

Pfizer submits vaccine data on kids to FDA

Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE announced they have submitted initial data to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from the Phase 2/3 trial of their COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 to 11.

In the trial, which included 2,268 participants 5 to 11 years of age, the vaccine demonstrated a favorable safety profile and elicited robust neutralizing antibody responses using a two-dose regimen of 10 μg doses. 

NJ offers $500 ‘return to work bonus’ to unemployed residents

Unemployed New Jersey residents could earn a $500 bonus to return to the workforce as part of a new program announced by Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday, Sept. 27. The “Return and Earn” initiative will offer the one-time bonus to folks who secure a job through the program, including positions that require on-the-job training.

Is it safe to trick-or-treat this Halloween? CDC weighs in

CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said on Face the Nation that kids can trick-or-treat safely this year, adding, “If you’re able to be outdoors, absolutely.”

CDC director overrules panel, backs booster for all adults in high-risk jobs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday, Sept. 23, endorsed booster shots for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky signed off on the recommendations from a panel of advisers, but then overnight added one more the panel had rejected.

The panel had voted against saying that people ages 18 to 64 can get a booster if they are health-care workers or have another job that puts them at increased risk of being exposed to the virus.

FDA OKs Pfizer COVID-19 boosters for 65 and older, high-risk Americans

The FDA authorized booster doses for Americans who are 65 and older, younger people with underlying health conditions and those in jobs that put them at high-risk for COVID-19. The ruling represents a drastically scaled back version of the Biden administration’s sweeping plan to give third doses to nearly all American adults to shore up their protection amid the spread of the highly contagious delta variant.

J&J booster shot 94% effective 2 months after 1st dose

Johnson & Johnson on Tuesday, Sept. 21, said new data shows a second dose — or a booster shot — of their one-shot COVID vaccine was found to be 94% effective against symptomatic COVID-19 when given two months after the initial dose.

Pfizer says COVID-19 vaccine works in kids ages 5 to 11

Pfizer said Monday, Sept. 20, its COVID-19 vaccine works for children ages 5 to 11 and that it will seek U.S. authorization for this age group soon — a key step toward beginning vaccinations for youngsters.

Vaccine mandate for child care facilities

Gov. Phil Murphy said all child care workers and facility employees need to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 1 or face regular weekly testing. As of Sept. 24, all employees, students and children in a facility’s care ages two and up will need to wear masks indoors, with limited exceptions.

Moderna vaccine is most effective against hospitalization from COVID-19: study

A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention compared how effective each of the three COVID-19 vaccines are in preventing hospitalization from the virus. The CDC reported that effectiveness was higher for the Moderna vaccine (93%) than the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine (88%) and the J&J vaccine (71%).

New Jersey surpassed as state with highest rate of COVID deaths

Mississippi has surpassed New Jersey as the state with the highest rate of COVID-19 deaths in the U.S., with roughly 1 of every 320 Mississippians having succumbed to the coronavirus.

COVID-19 is ‘getting better’ at becoming airborne virus

Recent COVID-19 variants are much more adept at airborne transmission than the original version of the coronavirus, according to a new study. University of Maryland researchers analyzed the Alpha variant first identified in the United Kingdom and discovered that carriers breathe out 43 to 100 times more infectious viral aerosols than those infected with the original strain.

U.S. panel backs Pfizer COVID-19 boosters only for 65 and over, high-risk

An influential federal advisory panel overwhelmingly rejected a plan to give Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots to most Americans, but it endorsed the extra shots for those who are 65 or older or run a high risk of severe disease.

COVID outbreaks in NJ schools

As of Wednesday, Sept. 15, there were six outbreaks in New Jersey schools, according to Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli. An outbreak is defined as at least three cases that are epidemiologically connected and not from the same household.

The cases are a mix of students and staff, Persichilli said. More information will be released on the state Health Department website in the coming days.

EU removes US from safe travel list

The European Union recommended that its 27 nations reinstate restrictions on tourists from the U.S. because of rising coronavirus infections there.

COVID-19 variants significantly reduce protection of vaccines, prior infection: study

A new study confirms that vaccinations and even prior COVID-19 infection provide significantly less protection against newer variants. Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University say in order to protect against the Alpha, Beta, and now Delta variants, these findings stress the importance of doubling down on both vaccinations and public health measures during the pandemic.

Mask debate moves from school boards to courtrooms

The rancorous debate over whether returning students should wear masks in the classroom has moved from school boards to courtrooms. In at least 14 states, lawsuits have been filed either for or against masks in schools. In some cases, normally rule-enforcing school administrators are finding themselves fighting state leaders in the name of keeping kids safe.

Supreme Court allows evictions to resume during pandemic

The Supreme Court’s conservative majority is allowing evictions to resume across the United States, blocking the Biden administration from enforcing a temporary ban that was put in place because of the coronavirus pandemic. New Jersey’s statewide rent moratorium expires at the end of the year.

These foods are extra hard to find right now because of shortages, supply chain issues

Notice your grocery store shelves looking a little bare lately? You’re definitely not the only one. Supply chain issues have created shortages of highly specific ingredients.

‘It’s up to us’: Fauci says pandemic could possibly end by spring 2022

The nation’s top infectious disease expert believes the pandemic’s end is near as long as the U.S. follows the right protocols to contain COVID-19. Dr. Anthony Fauci said he sees the light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s only open if the country’s 80 million to 90 million unvaccinated people are convinced to get the shot.

Comirnaty: What’s the story behind the new Pfizer vaccine name?

Comirnaty, who? It’s the same exact mRNA vaccine Pfizer has been producing through the emergency use authorization, but now it’s being marketed under a new name.

Is an earache a new COVID-19 symptom?

Doctors say they’re seeing a new COVID-19 symptom in some patients. According to experts, an earache has been reported more frequently by those testing positive for COVID. Earaches can cause pain, a feeling of blockage and sometimes muffled hearing.

NJ COVID hospitalizations top 1,000 for the first time since May: Gov. Murphy

For the first time since May, more than 1,000 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in New Jersey on Wednesday, Aug. 25, Gov. Phil Murphy said. There were 1,012 people hospitalized with COVID, 92 of whom were on ventilators, according to state Health Department data. The last time the state had more than 1,000 COVID hospitalizations was over three months ago on May 11, Murphy said.

Johnson & Johnson: Vaccine booster provides ‘rapid, robust’ response

Johnson & Johnson on Wednesday, Aug. 25, announced new data the company said supports the use of its COVID vaccine as a booster shot for people previously vaccinated with their single-shot vaccine.

J&J said the new data showed that a booster shot of their vaccine generated a “rapid and robust increase in spike-binding antibodies, nine-fold higher than 28 days after the primary single-dose vaccination.”

NJ to require teachers, state workers be fully vaccinated

All school personnel and state workers in New Jersey will be required to get vaccinated against COVID-19, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday, Aug. 23.

Will COVID booster shot have the same side effects as the first two shots?

The Biden administration said Wednesday, Aug. 18, that COVID booster shots will soon be available, but how will the Sept. 20 rollout work, and what side effects should Americans expect?

Lambda and B.1.621: New COVID variants could be the worst yet, doctor warns

At least two new COVID-19 variants have hit the United States and they could be worse than the delta variant in their infectiousness and ability to stand up to vaccines, according to a top medical authority.

U.S. health officials call for booster shots for all to battle COVID-19

U.S. health officials recommended all Americans get COVID-19 booster shots to shore up their protection amid the surging delta variant and evidence that the vaccines’ effectiveness is falling. The announcement was made on Aug. 18.

August child tax credit payments issued: Here’s why yours might be delayed

The second installment of expanded child tax credits was issued on Aug. 13 to millions of eligible families, but some payments will likely be delayed due to a technical glitch, the U.S. Department of Treasury said.

Schumer calls for federal crackdown on fake vaccine cards

The Senate’s top Democrat says federal law enforcement officials need to crack down on fake COVID-19 vaccination cards being sold online.

COVID claims more young victims as deaths climb yet again

The COVID-19 death toll has started soaring again as the delta variant tears through the nation’s unvaccinated population and fills up hospitals with patients, many of whom are younger than during earlier phases of the pandemic.

NJ county opens COVID booster shot appointments

Health care officials in a northern New Jersey county began offering COVID-19 booster shots to qualified residents on Aug. 14. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. said appointments for a third shot of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine were open at vaccination centers at Kmart in West Orange and Essex County College in Newark.

Concerts, outdoor events still risky as delta variant surges, experts say

Concerts and outdoor events are returning, and many are requiring proof of vaccination as part of new safety protocols designed to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19. But while experts say being outdoors is less risky in general, they continue to recommend additional precautions for those visiting crowded outdoor venues.

Biden weighs stiffer vaccine rules as delta variant spreads rapidly across U.S.

When the pace of vaccinations in the U.S. first began to slow, President Joe Biden backed incentives like million-dollar cash lotteries if that’s what it took to get shots in arms. But as new COVID infections soar, he’s testing a tougher approach.

Who doesn’t need the COVID-19 vaccine?

It has been eight months since the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered to health care workers nationwide. Since then, the vaccine has become available to anyone over the age of 12. Experts explain the few instances in which a person would not qualify for, or should delay getting vaccinated.

Extra COVID shot OK’d for immunocompromised individuals

The FDA has approved an extra, third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for transplant recipients and others with severely weakened immune systems.

Fake COVID vaccine cards worry college officials

With more than 600 colleges and universities now requiring proof of COVID-19 inoculations, an online industry has sprung up offering fake vaccine cards.

What to do if you lose your COVID-19 vaccine card

Don’t worry if you’ve lost your COVID-19 vaccine card, there are several ways you can get it replaced. No matter where you got your shots, getting a replacement card is possible.

Will NJ reinstate a travel advisory?

Gov. Murphy said on Aug. 9, a new travel advisory is not off the table, but for now he encouraged mask wearing, which is mandatory in all airports and on flights, and other COVID safety protocols. “You gotta use your head,” he added.

Will NJ mandate masks indoors?

Despite CDC data showing New Jersey falls under its guidance to wear masks indoors, Gov. Murphy said he will not yet mandate face coverings but added, “we leave all options on the table.”

COVID transmission levels call for indoor masking under CDC guidelines

Indoor masking is advised in areas with COVID transmission rates considered “substantial” or “high” under recently updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Aug. 8, all of New Jersey falls under those categories.

How do you know if you have the delta variant of COVID-19?

So you’ve tested positive for COVID – but which COVID exactly? Is there a way to tell if you have the highly transmissible delta variant? There is a way to tell, but there’s not really a way for you to tell.

COVID breakthrough cases: Is one vaccine better than others?

COVID-19 breakthrough cases are rising, and now people want to know which vaccine offers the best protection from the coronavirus.

Are kids more vulnerable to the delta variant of COVID-19?

Hospitals around the United States, especially in the South, are starting to fill back up again as the delta variant tears though the country. With previous waves of infection, we’ve been most worried about the elderly being vulnerable. Now, it’s younger people – even children – starting to show up in hospital beds.

U.S. averaging 100,000 new COVID-19 infections a day as delta surges

The United States is now averaging 100,000 new COVID-19 infections a day, returning to a milestone last seen during the winter surge in yet another bleak reminder of how quickly the delta variant has spread through the country. The U.S. was averaging about 11,000 cases a day in late June. Now the number is 107,143.

NJ schools mask mandate: Teachers’ union backs, Republicans slam Murphy decision

New Jersey Republicans have largely trashed Gov. Phil Murphy’s announcement on Aug 6 that masks will be required in all schools in the upcoming academic year.

Gov. Murphy mandates masks in schools

In a reversal of plans, Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Aug. 6 a mandate for masks in schools for the upcoming academic year.

NJ health care workers must be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19

Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order on Aug. 6 mandating that all workers in state and private health care facilities either be vaccinated for COVID-19 or tested for it twice a week.

50% of U.S. population is fully vaccinated, White House says

The United States reached a vaccination milestone on Aug. 6: 50% of the population, all ages, were fully vaccinated, the White House COVID-19 data director confirmed.

CDC says people who’ve had COVID should get shot or risk reinfection

Even people who have recovered from COVID-19 are urged to get vaccinated, especially as the extra-contagious delta variant surges — and a new study shows survivors who ignored that advice were more than twice as likely to get reinfected.

‘You have lost your minds’: Murphy lashes out at anti-vax protesters

Gov. Phil Murphy ran out of patience for protesters against the COVID-19 vaccine at a bill signing in Union City on Aug. 4.

Warning of more delta mutations, Fauci urges vaccinations

The White House COVID-19 response team said the delta variant continues to surge across the country. During a briefing on Aug. 5, Dr. Anthony Fauci called on Americans to take precautions to stop the virus from mutating. “The ultimate end game of all this is vaccination,” he said.

Moderna says vaccine 93% effective after 6 months

Moderna said its COVID vaccine has 93% efficacy six months after the second shot, according to a report released on Aug. 5.

Can I get ‘long COVID’ if I’m infected after getting vaccinated?

It’s unclear, but researchers are studying the chances of long-term symptoms developing in anyone who might get infected after vaccination.

What is the delta plus variant of COVID?

The latest surge in COVID-19 infections is fueled by the highly contagious delta variant first identified in India late last year. Now, a variation of that variant is beginning to generate headlines. Here’s what we know about the COVID sub-strain being called delta plus.

Vaccine mandate for state colleges?

Currently, some state colleges in New Jersey are mandating the COVID-19 vaccine for students and staff and some have made it optional. Murphy said a universal mandate “is certainly an option,” but for now individual universities can make their own call.

More ‘pain and suffering’ ahead as COVID cases rise, Fauci says

Dr. Anthony Fauci warned on Aug. 1 that more “pain and suffering” is on the horizon as COVID-19 cases climb again and officials plead with unvaccinated Americans to get their shots.

Walmart requiring COVID vaccination, masks for many employees

In a memo, Walmart announced that associates who work in multiple facilities, and associates of its campus office, will need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 4. Walmart also required associates, including those fully vaccinated, to wear masks in its stores.

Iconic NJ restaurant The Fireplace closes after 65 years

A popular restaurant in New Jersey closed its doors after 65 years of service.

The Fireplace, like many other restaurants across the country, was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and temporarily shuttered its doors before reopening in May, when they implemented drive-thru, takeout and curbside pickup followed by indoor dining in October.

New delta variant research makes strong case for vaccination

A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasized the delta variant is more dangerous and fast-spreading than first thought. The findings also made clear why efforts to get more people vaccinated are vital.

CDC data shows delta variant spreads as easily as chickenpox

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new information on July 30, saying the coronavirus delta variant can spread as easily as chickenpox.

Pfizer: COVID vaccine protective for at least 6 months

The effectiveness of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine wanes slightly over time but it remains strongly protective for at least six months after the second dose, according to company data released on July 28.

Disney World requires masks indoors regardless of vaccination status

Beginning July 30, Disney World required all visitors ages 2 and older to wear a face covering while indoors as well as in Disney buses, the monorail and the Disney Skyliner, regardless of vaccination status.

NJ mask guidance

Gov. Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli strongly recommended that both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents wear masks in indoor settings when there is increased risk.

CDC mask guidance: Vaccinated people should wear face coverings in public indoor settings

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reversed course on some masking guidelines, recommending that even vaccinated people return to wearing masks indoors in parts of the U.S. where the coronavirus is surging.

U.S. headed in ‘wrong direction’ on COVID-19, Fauci says

The United States is in an “unnecessary predicament” of soaring COVID-19 cases fueled by unvaccinated Americans and the virulent delta variant, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert said on July 25.

Doctors warn about slightly different symptoms with delta variant of COVID

As concern grows regarding the COVID-19 delta variant, health leaders are warning about somewhat different symptoms that come with it.

Most unvaccinated Americans unlikely to get COVID-19 shots, new AP poll finds

A new poll shows that most Americans who haven’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 say they are unlikely to get the shots. About 16% say they probably will get the vaccine.

Is asking about someone’s COVID vaccine status a HIPAA violation?

HIPAA was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996 during a time when medical records were being computerized. It was created to simplify the administration of health insurance and to prevent unauthorized access to peoples’ medical histories.

In fact, HIPAA doesn’t block anyone from asking another person about their health status, according to Alan Meisel, law professor and bioethics expert at the University of Pittsburgh.

Gov. Murphy holds off on reinstating mask mandate

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy says he’s not ready to reinstitute mask requirements, now or when schools are back in session in September. Murphy says he “is comfortable where we are” on mask mandates but is also closely monitoring developments.

Child tax credit checks: Will they become permanent?

The parents of an estimated 60 million American children began receiving child tax credit payments from the IRS in a move expected to lift millions of families above the poverty baseline for the remainder of 2021. Should they become permanent?

Biden grapples with ‘pandemic of the unvaccinated’

President Joe Biden is confronting the worrying reality of rising cases and deaths — and the limitations of his ability to combat the persistent vaccine hesitance responsible for the summer backslide.

Child tax credit: When to expect payments, how it may impact tax returns

Payments for the highly anticipated expanded child tax credits were being sent to families in the tri-state area, and the rest of the nation, for the first time in mid-July. While the additional money may be very helpful for some families across the economic spectrum, the overall tax credit situation is complicated.

Common cholesterol drugs may significantly reduce risk of death from COVID-19: study

Statins, a common medication for lowering cholesterol, may be saving lives among patients with COVID-19. A new study reveals hospitalized coronavirus patients who take statins are much less likely to die from the illness.

WHO chief says it was ‘premature’ to rule out COVID lab leak

The head of the World Health Organization acknowledged it was premature to rule out a potential link between the COVID-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak, and he said he is asking China to be more transparent as scientists search for the origins of the coronavirus.

Wildfire smoke linked to increased COVID-19 risk, study says

A new study suggests that exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.

What can I do if I didn’t get my child tax credit payment?

The official disbursement date for the first child tax credit payments from the Internal Revenue Service was July 15, but parents may not see the cash right away.

Delta now dominant COVID variant in New Jersey

The highly transmissible delta variant is now the dominant strain in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy said on July 12. The governor urged New Jersey residents to get vaccinated against COVID if they haven’t already done so.

Global COVID-19 deaths hit 4 million amid rush to vaccinate

The global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 4 million in July as the crisis increasingly becomes a race between the vaccine and the highly contagious delta variant.

99 percent of U.S. COVID deaths are unvaccinated people: Fauci

America’s top infectious disease expert says about 99.2% of recent COVID-19 deaths in the United States involved unvaccinated people. And Dr. Anthony Fauci says “it’s really sad and tragic that most all of these are avoidable and preventable.”

There’s more to the worker shortage than pandemic unemployment, experts say

The workforce shortage is a combination of several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a shift in the economy, and changes in the workforce demographics, experts say.

Free health insurance included in stimulus benefits for unemployment recipients

Along with $1,400 stimulus checks and monthly child tax credit payments, the American Rescue Plan has another important benefit available to people who qualified for unemployment assistance this year: free health care.

Will one dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine protect me?

Yes, but not nearly as much as if you had both doses. Experts recommend getting fully vaccinated, especially with the emergence of worrisome coronavirus mutations such as the delta variant first identified in India.

Workers enjoy the upper hand as companies scramble to hire

With the economy growing rapidly as it reopens from the pandemic, many employers are increasingly desperate to hire. Yet evidence suggests that as a group, the unemployed aren’t feeling the same urgency to take jobs.

Vaccine freebies

New York, New Jersey and several companies nationwide are offering incentives for those who get vaccinated, including free food and drinks.

Latest official indicators

As of Tuesday, there have been 1,135,003 total positive PCR tests in the state since March 2020, and there have been 25,778 lab-confirmed coronavirus deaths, according to the state Health Department.

COVID-19 timeline: How novel coronavirus spread

Tips to protect yourself and others amid coronavirus outbreaks

More than 980,000 New Jersey families are in danger of losing their monthly checks from the federal government that have lifted thousands of children out of poverty and lowered taxes for others.

The expanded child tax credit, part of President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus stimulus law that was passed over unanimous Republican opposition, expires at the end of the month. It would be expanded for another year in Biden’s 10-year, $1.75 trillion social spending bill, known as Build Back Better, that passed the House but remains held up in the Senate.

“This is urgent. Families are seeing their lives really affected in a positive way by the child tax credit,” U.S. Sen. Cory Booker told NJ Advance Media. “To have those checks stop in January because we haven’t been able to get a bill done that will get done is to me not acceptable.”

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., called the provision “a program that has been transformative that has been a game changer for families, the ability to provide that economic security” during a Zoom press conference Tuesday.

The stimulus bill increased the child tax credit to $3,600 for children under 6 and $3,000 for those 6-17 from $2,000. Instead of the entire credit being claimed on a family’s tax return, the Internal Revenue Service has sent out half of the credit in monthly payments of $300 a month for children up to age 6 or $250 for children ages 6-17.

For New Jersey, the monthly payments went to 984,000 families in October, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a progressive research group. Individuals making up to $75,000 and married couples filing jointly making up to $150,000 receive the full credit. Benefits phase out for those who earn more.

The group said 257,000 New Jersey children were at risk of slipping back into poverty if the child tax credit payments end.

Both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris touted the spending bill during trips to New Jersey in October. In addition to extending the child tax credit, the legislation would reduce health care and child care costs, take steps to address climate change, lower prescription drug prices, and restore at least part of the federal deduction for state and local taxes.

“The bottom line is: We’re helping working-class and middle-class people spend less money on the things they badly need,” Biden said Tuesday at a Democratic National Committee event in Washington. “So if you’re worried about rising cost, nothing will cut costs for American families more than the Build Back Better plan.”

Booker indicated that he would back an extension of the child tax credit immediately even if the rest of the social spending bill didn’t yet have enough support to get out of the Senate.

”I don’t want to see those checks stopped so i would support other options if we’re unable to get the Build Back Better done,” Booker said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said at her Tuesday briefing that the president was committed to passing the entire bill, including the child tax credit.

“Our focus on the legislative front is on Build Back Better and getting it done,” she said.

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Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JDSalant.

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One year ago Wednesday, on Dec. 15, 2020 in Newark, University Hospital nurse Maritza Beniquez became the first person in New Jersey to receive a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Since then, according to the state’s dashboard, more than 7 million people who live, work, or study in New Jersey have gotten at least one vaccine dose, with 6.3 million considered “fully vaccinated” by the federal standard of two doses of Pfizer or Moderna’s shots, or one shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Still, since the vaccine rollout began, almost 730,000 additional COVID cases have been confirmed in the Garden State, and more than 12,000 people infected with the coronavirus have died.

Daily case counts peaked in mid-January 2021, with the Delta variant subsequently fueling a late-summer surge just after New Jersey achieved Gov. Phil Murphy’s initial goal of fully vaccinating 4.7 million adults, or 70% of the adult population.

Now, as fall has turned to winter, people and activities have increasingly moved indoors, and there are concurrent concerns about waning immunity provided by the primary vaccination series, large holiday gatherings, and the transmissibility of the emerging Omicron variant.

With all that in mind, earlier this week Murphy designated Wednesday as “Boost NJ Day,” pledging increased walk-up access to additional vaccine doses at many sites around the state.

So far 1.7 million people in New Jersey have received a third or booster dose, about 37% of those who are eligible, either due to higher COVID risk or because it has been six months or more since they gained “fully vaccinated” status.

That number needs to climb higher, and quickly, according to Dr. Meg Fisher, a pediatric infectious disease expert and special adviser to state Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.

Fisher said the original vaccination target percentage is a good place to start.

“Now we know that really, if we’re going to turn off this surge that we’re really in right now, we need to get as many people as possible boosted,” she said. “We need at least 70% of our population to be boosted. If we have less boosters, we’re very concerned that we’re going to get into an even greater surge.”

And, if the booster campaign stalls, could New Jersey return to the stringent shutdowns of March and April 2020, a so-called “pandemic 2.0”?

Fisher said current modeling warns that hospitalization numbers could return to early pandemic levels by the spring of 2022, but added that even as immunity from initial vaccinations has worn off, 75% to 80% of people currently hospitalized for COVID in the state have had no vaccine shots at all, and that those are the patients overwhelmingly filling ICU beds.

Breakthrough cases will continue to occur among people who are fully vaccinated or even boosted, according to Fisher, but the goal of health officials is to prevent those individuals from experiencing any case whatsoever.

“If you haven’t gotten a shot yet, please go get your first shot. If you haven’t gotten your second shot, get that,” she said. “As long as the virus keeps replicating, we know that there will continue to be new variants, and we don’t know when one of these variants will be even worse.”

Fisher wants to remind New Jerseyans that 16- and 17-year-olds, in addition to adults 18 and older, are now eligible for booster shots, and initial vaccinations have been cleared for anyone in the state down to age 5.

Aside from that, Fisher said people should continue to take the precautions that have served them well thus far: mask up, keep their distance in public when possible, stay home when they are sick, get tested if they show symptoms — and wash their hands.

She said the state still has “a ways to go,” but there is “hope for a better 2022.”

Patrick Lavery is New Jersey 101.5’s afternoon news anchor. Follow him on Twitter @plavery1015 or email patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com.

ORANGE, NJ – The Orange community came together for a Christmas tree lighting at City Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Residents enjoyed live performances and free refreshments, goods from local vendors, and photos with Mayor Dwayne Warren.

It was a contrast to last year’s holiday, which was dampened by COVID-19. The mayor was in a very good mood and focused not so much on how many came out for the event, but on how happy everyone seemed.

“It’s just our time of the year to reflect back, to say thank you and celebrate with the children so we can start the holiday season off in a festive manner,” said Warren on Friday, Dec. 3. “It wasn’t the largest turnout. It was a close-knit turnout, and it was the faithful who wanted to bring their kids

out. The weather wasn’t the warmest at all, and there were about 50 to 100 people. Of course, there was hot chocolate and good cheer to go around.
“I want to thank our vendors who came out and supported us as well. We had people who do crafts, people who do specialty foods and jewelry as well,” he continued.

“Regarding the live performances, we had one of our high school students, we had a number of choir members as well, and then, of course, I’m a constant soloist at many events. We got our tree at a farm. … We try to focus on places that are reseeding and try to keep the Earth ripe for growing. One of those places that are responsible and sustainable.”

Warren said Orange is looking to do a number of winter events this year, unlike last year. He thanked Dunkin’ and others who provided food, hot chocolate and other supplies. He pointed out the steps that had been taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, such
as having masks, hand sanitizers, gloves and social
distancing.

“It was acutely successful,” said the mayor. “The great thing about it is that, when we go, we go loud and we go big. The community heard us celebrating, and that brought a lot of people out by itself, spurring other people to make calls to their neighbors and to their family about the upcoming season. One of the biggest things is the crowd included people who had never come before and they had a great time, so it expanded our touch in the community. The interesting part lies where you break down the numbers. You’ll see people of all different ethnicities. It was beautiful to hear all different languages, people who had stories of how they were going to celebrate in very diverse ways. It was a good mix of ethnicities, religio

us beliefs, languages and people from all income levels.”

Warren urged Orange residents to contact their family, friends and neighbors this holiday season and get involved in their own communities.

“The pandemic has taught us that we need to stay in touch, we need to be involved and we need to take care of our health,” he continued. “This year, we need to give the gift of love, contact and association, because that’s what is going to keep us sane.”
Councilwoman Adrienne Wooten, who was also in attendance at the tree lighting, wished everyone a joyous and safe holiday season.

“The winter holidays are the best holidays of the year. It is a time of year when we reflect upon peace throughout our communities,” Wooten said on Sunday, Dec. 5. “We started the holidays with a community menorah lighting, followed by the tree lighting, and we will end this season with a program for Kwanzaa. This is one of the best seasons of the year. We celebrate in our city and wish everyone a joyous and safe holiday season.”

JACKSON —  A carjacking in Jackson turned violent Monday morning after police spoke with a 57-year-old woman who reported that her vehicle had been stolen at a gas station by a man who punched her face.

It happened at the Lukoil gas station on West Countyline Road just before 10 a.m. The victim told officers she had been standing outside her 1999 Dodge Pickup when a man got into the driver’s seat. She opened the door to see what he was doing. That’s when he punched her and drove off, police said.

A short time later, a police officer in a parking lot on West Countyline Road in Lakewood saw the stolen pickup and the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Kevin Breaux of Jackson, being chased by several people, one of whom was bleeding from the face.

The people who had been chasing Breaux claimed he had assaulted them as well.

The officer chased Breaux on foot and then held him at gunpoint until backup arrived.

Breaux was charged with carjacking.

Police said he also was combative with staff at the Ocean County Jail.

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A Middletown woman who claims she accidentally shot her husband in the head inside their Borden Road home on Monday has been arrested and charged with first degree Murder.

Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced the charge against 73-year old Michele Linzalone on Tuesday.

Middletown Police received a 911 call around 10:13 am from Michele Linzalone who reported the shooting of her husband, 74-year old Rocky V. Linzalone.

When MTPD arrived on scene they were sent to a second floor bedroom and found Rocky with a gunshot wound to his head.

Middletown Township EMS and pandemics also responded to the scene and after several attempts at medical intervention, Rocky was produced dead at the scene.

Police then informed the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office of what happened and they then put together a joint investigation looking into what happened and why.

It was then determined by the investigating team that Michele shooting Rocky was no accident.

She has since been charged with first degree Murder and second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and was taken to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution in Freehold, pending a first appearance, which is occurring today.

Acting Prosecutor Linskey said that if she is convicted of Murder, Linzalone faces a maximum term of Life Imprisonment and if she is convicted of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, she faces up to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the Graves Act, which would require that she serve one-third to one-half of the sentence imposed or 42 months, whichever is greater.

If you have any information on the shooting, you’re asked to contact Detective Jason Gold of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office at (800) 533-7443 or Detective Keith Hirschbein of the Middletown Township Police Department at (732) 615-2100.

The case is assigned to Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Bogner of the Office’s Major Crimes Bureau.

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