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Strong thunderstorms leave thousands without power in N.J.

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A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for the state until 10 p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

Thousands of homes and businesses were without power in New Jersey Friday evening, hours after a string of strong thunderstorms swept through the state.

The late Friday afternoon storms brought hail and damaging winds, which toppled trees and knocked down power lines. The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for northern parts of New Jersey and a statewide severe thunderstorm watch, both of which will expire at 10 p.m.

As of 7:45, Jersey Central Power and Light is reporting dozens of outages, affecting close to 7,000 customers. 

Public Service Enterprise Group says around 9,000 of its customers are without power due to heavy rain and strong winds, according to spokeswoman Nicole Swan.

Power should be restored to Essex and Passaic counties by midnight, Swan said. PSE&G's southern coverage areas should get power back by 3 a.m., at the latest, she said.

"We have additional crews on to work through the night," Swan said. 

Just over 100 customers of Atlantic City Electric are without power. The company expects to return power to most by 11 p.m.

Large hail, up to 1 inch in diameter, was reported by trained weather observers in Hainesport and Lumberton in Burlington County and Hackensack in Bergen County, and 1.25-inch diameter hail was reported in Eastampton Township in Burlington County. Numerous water rescues were reported by emergency dispatchers in Vineland in Cumberland County at about 5:30 p.m.

Multiple trees and power lines were toppled in Fairfield in Essex County, the weather service reported, and a large tree was uprooted in Cedar Grove, falling onto three cars and a house.

The storms also dumped a deluge of rain, as much as 3 inches in some towns in as little as three hours, causing flash flooding, the weather service said. 

Staff writer Len Melisurgo contributed to this report.

Craig McCarthy may be reached at CMcCarthy@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @createcraig. Find NJ.com on Facebook.  

 

  


Thousands in N.J. remain without power after thunderstorms

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Almost 4,000 homes and businesses were still in the dark.

About 4,000 homes and businesses were still in the dark Saturday morning after thunderstorms traversed New Jersey on Friday afternoon.

The state was under a severe thunderstorm watch and several northern counties were under a tornado watch Friday evening, after late afternoon storms caused hail and strong winds.

As of 7:30 a.m., about 3,000 customers of Jersey Central Power & Light lacked power, with the largest number of outages clustered near Denville and Frankford. The company estimated power would be restored to Denville by 1 p.m. and to Frankford around 10:30 a.m.

PSE&G was also reporting dozens of outages across the state, including 1,700 in the Glen Ridge area. A company outage map said power likely would be restored by 9:30 a.m. 

Atlantic City Electric reported only a handful of outages in the southern half of the state, affecting less than 35 customers. 

Friday's storms caused flash flooding in some towns as it brought as much as 3 inches of rain in as little as three hours, the National Weather Service said. 

Trained weather observers in Burlington and Bergen Counties also reported large hail. 

Marisa Iati may be reached at miati@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @Marisa_Iati. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

The top 10 summer day trips in Essex County

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Our recommendations for where you and the family should head this summer. Watch video

ESSEX COUNTY -- School is out, pools are open, and New Jersey families are on the prowl for summer fun.

Want to find a frugal way to spend the day with the kids, a place to expend excess energy, or an afternoon of culture? Options for all of the above can be found nearby.

Check out the gallery above for a look at our picks (in no particular order) for some of the top day trips in Essex County to take with your family, and get the info you need to know below.

1. The South Mountain Recreation Complex

Screen Shot 2016-07-02 at 11.36.47 AM.pngA map of the complex. (Courtesy County of Essex)
 

Location: 560 Northfield Ave. in West Orange

Cost: Varies, depending on which activities you do. Check the website for specifics.

Why it made the list: There are days worth of activities at the county-owned complex. You can head there three different times and get three totally different experiences out of it. Among its offerings - a treetop adventure climbing course (recommended for those who are not afraid of heights and who have some excess energy to burn); Waterfront fun with paddle boat rentals and fishing on the reservoir; good eats, either at McCloone's Restaurant or of your own creation on the outdoor picnic tables near the water; Aerobic fun for kids on the Regatta Playground or on the walking path around the water; and ice skating at the Codey Arena (just be sure to check the arena's schedule beforehand to see when skating is open to the public). That's all without the complex's main attraction, which is a day trip all in its own...

2. The Turtle Back Zoo

Location: 560 Northfield Ave. in West Orange

Cost: Zoo admission is $14 for adults, and $11 for children and senior citizens

Why it made the list: Technically part of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, there is more than enough to do at the TB Zoo to make it a trip in itself. In addition to the more than 100 different species of animals on display, the zoo also offers a reptile house, education center, carousel, and special events happening often. New exhibits are also popping up all the time, like the new giraffe exhibit and the planned injured turtle sanctuary, which is opening next year.

3. The Newark Museum

Screen Shot 2016-07-02 at 11.41.35 AM.png(Courtesy the Newark Museum)
 

Location: 49 Washington Street in Newark

Cost: Museum admission is $15 for adults, and $8 for children, seniors, and students. Planetarium admission is an additional $6 for adults and $4 for children, seniors, and college students.

Why it made the list: Though many don't realize it, this is the largest museum in the state and home to the 12th largest museum collection in the country. The Newark Museum is known for its extensive collection of art from around the world. Before you head there, check out our list of the top 10 exhibits to see there this summer.

4. The Essex County Environmental Center

Env CenterEnvironmental Center map. (Courtesy the County of Essex)
 

Location: 621-B Eagle Rock Avenue in Roseland

Cost: Varies, depending on activity

Why it made the list: The county-run center offers a wide array of events for groups, kids, and adults, all aimed at environmental appreciation. County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo called the center "the premiere location for environmental education and nature appreciation...walk in our woods, discover habitats, get pointers on gardening, learn about nature photography and much more." A fan favorite is the summertime Butterfly Safari.

Bringing plant life back to Edison's home

5. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Location: 211 Main Street in West Orange

Cost: $10 entry fee and $5 for the audio tour

Why it made the list: A visit here is taking a step back into some of Essex County's most interesting history. The park includes a laboratory complex where you can learn about and experience Edison's many inventions, and tours of Glenmont Estate, including Edison's 29-room Queen Anne-style mansion.

6. Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary

-446c497441dceeaf.JPG(Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)
 

Location: 324 Forest Drive South in Short Hills

Why it made the list: It's one of the most interesting nature right-under-your-nose spots in Essex. Head to the Arboretum to check out multiple trails, and dozens of species of wildflowers and birds, and animal exhibits.

18 Hours in Montclair: More than a foodie haven

7. The Montclair Art Museum

Location: 3 South Mountain Avenue in Montclair

Cost: $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors

Why it made the list: It's a great place to soak up Montclair's unique culture. A few years off its centennial celebration, the museum features unique exhibits and educational opportunities. This summer, be sure to check out the "Basket Mania" and Pueblo Pottery exhibits.

8. Day of Mini Golfing

golf.JPGMonster Mini. (Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com) 

Locations: Throughout the county

Cost: Varies, depending on location

Why it made the list: Whether you hit one mini golf course, or multiple, you can make a day out of a little friendly competition. Our recommendation for a unique mini golf experience? Monster Mini Golf in Fairfield. Stop by for an electric, indoor course.

9. Newark Celebration 350

-766ef49b8d095843.jpgThe crowd cheers as Naughty by Nature performs during the Newark 350 Founders Weekend Festival, held at Military Park, May 14, 2016, Newark, NJ. (Mary Iuvone/For NJ Advance Media)
 

Locations: Multiple

Cost: Varies by event, many are free or discounted

Why it made the list: It's a once-in-a-lifetime yearlong chance to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the founding of the state's largest city. Hundreds of events happening across the city all year long will allow you to learn about Newark's history, appreciate its culture, be entertained in the city, and more. Check out a full list of the NC350 events here.

10. Greenwood Gardens

greenwood.JPGGreenwood Gardens (Alex Remnick/The Star-Ledger)
 

Location: 274 Old Short Hills Road in Millburn

Cost: $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors

Why it made the list: The personal estate turned public garden is the perfect mix of outdoor fun and historical insight. It's a great spot for a low-key day out, or for a photographer looking for something picturesque to capture.

Jessica Mazzola may be reached at jmazzola@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessMazzola. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

4 charged, 3 guns seized after traffic stop in Newark, authorities say

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Four face weapons charges

Newark Police.jpg(File photo) 
NEWARK -- A traffic stop led Newark detectives to arrest four men on weapons charges and recover three guns Thursday in the city, authorities said.

According to Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose, members of the police division's special enforcement bureau spotted a silver car weaving in and out of traffic around midnight on 15th Avenue.

When detectives pulled the car over on Springfield Avenue, they smelled marijuana as they approached the vehicle, Ambrose said in a statement.

Four occupants of the car -- Tykyn McKenzie, 18, Afrika Islam and As'Samad Banks both 20 and the driver, Joseph A. Brown, 23, all Newark residents, -- were all arrested on various charges, including possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose, possession of hollow point bullets and receiving stolen property after detectives learned one of the three handguns was stolen in 2008, according to authorities. Police towed the car and also ticketed Brown for traffic violations.

Man lied about carjacking after drugs, gun found in vehicle, police say

Ambrose credited detectives with likely preventing a crime by making the weapons arrests.

"The members of the Special Enforcement Bureau continue to do good police work and have been extremely effective at making the city safer by taking guns off the street," the public safety director added.

Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahycFind NJ.com on Facebook.

Spike in homicides leaves N.J. city reeling

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Plainfield saw four killings in 2015 and three in 2014. Six months into this year, that number is already at six.

PLAINFIELD -- Willie Lee Major II was eating a frozen popsicle the last time his mother saw him. 

The 37-year-old left their home of 25 years on Plainfield Avenue after finishing the dessert and headed to the 400 block of West 4th Street, about a half-mile walk, where he was then shot to death.

Willie Lee MajorWillie Lee Major II. (Family photo) 

"He was just in the wrong place at the wrong time," Joan Major said of the May 25 shooting death of her son, who authorities say was an innocent bystander.

His funeral was held at Ruth Fellowship Ministries church on South 2nd Street, his mother said, where residents gathered last week to preach for an end to gun violence. Since that anti-violence forum, two more people in the city have died in shootings.

Seven months into the year so far, Plainfield has seen six killings, compared to four in all of last year and three in 2014.

Murder in the city of about 50,000 has fluctuated over the years -- the most in a one-year period during the last 10 being 11 killings in 2011.

Plainfield killings since 2006The numbers of killings Plainfield has seen each year since 2006, according to the county prosecutor's office. (Luke Nozicka | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)
 

All six cases this year remain open, the prosecutor's office said.

Small pocket of violence

Plainfield Police Director Carl Riley said the recent violence comes from a tiny, isolated group of individuals, whom the department is actively pursuing. 

Of the six slayings this year, four occurred within a one-mile radius of each other. 

Those murdered include 29-year-old Joshua Hartsfield, who previously served time for manslaughter, and 60-year-old Frank Drayton, a man of faith who protected another person during the shooting that fatally injured him, a friend and former police captain said. 

Neelega Perry, a 24-year-old city woman, was fatally shot Thursday in the backyard of a home, making her the most recent person gunned down in the city.

The map below shows where killings have occurred in Plainfield since 2014. Red represents homicides this year, blue shows 2015 and green displays 2014.

Riley said his officers frequently analyze their patrol strategies in the hopes to reduce crime and make themselves more visible to the community.

"All officers are expected to get out of their cars," said the police director who took over in January 2014. "Plainfield is a safe community and we're working hard to combat all of these issues."

Searching for solutions

Regardless, community members have been looking for grassroots ways to combat violence.

During a faith-based community meeting Wednesday, the 20 or so people who attended formed a group they're calling the Plainfield anti-violence coalition, to create a long-term action plan for making positive change on their streets.  

"We're in a state of lawlessness," city councilwoman Gloria Taylor said during the gathering at YWCA on East Front Street. "We should be angry. We have to speak up so people know we are concerned." 

Some spoke of the need to cooperate with police during investigations. Others preached of handing out food and flyers with information on how to apply for jobs. 

Hours before 5th homicide, Plainfield residents held rally against gun violence

Michael Muhammad, a student minister at the ministry of Louis Farrakhan, said people must get on the corners themselves and interact with the city's youth.

"We have to get in the trenches and pull somebody out," the 52-year-old said. "We have to put together a spiritually-rooted, practical and tireless effort to be constant. ... We can't fear our own children."

Salaam Ismial, director of the National United Youth Council, which has been putting on the recent anti-violence forums in the city, said his group is organizing a youth summit for Aug. 6, where community members will be able to hear the voices and concerns of the municipality's adolescents. 

"These young people are disenfranchised, so this would allow us to interact with them," said Ismial, who in a statement says he asked Riley and acting Union County Prosecutor Grace Park to beef up the city's police presence following the sixth killing. "These shootings and murders are overwhelming this great city and deserve extreme response."

The Union County Crime Stoppers are still offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in each of these cases, the prosecutor's office said. 

Tips can be given anonymously at 908-654-8477 or online at www.uctip.org.

As for Gary Kirkwood, president of the Greater Central Jersey Clergy Association, he said he's tired of attending meetings after people are shot dead.

"We need a holistic approach," Kirkwood said. "There was a child just born at [JFK Medical Center.] We have to get to him, otherwise he'll have a gun in his hands in 10, 15 years from now."

Luke Nozicka may be reached at lnozicka@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @lukenozicka. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Newark police operation brings 57 arrests, officials say

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Public safety director announces ongoing crime fighting effort

newark poilce car doorFile photo 
NEWARK -- A four-day police operation in the city's Central Ward netted 57 arrests and more than 200 traffic summonses as part of an ongoing anti-crime effort, Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose said Saturday.

The initiative was divided into phases, including a roundup that focused on known gang members and people with active warrants, Ambrose said in a statement. Other phases involved focusing on quality of life issues and complaints of criminal activity.

The law enforcement operation targeted areas around 7th Avenue to Park Avenue, Park Avenue to Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard and Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard to Clifton Avenue, officials said. Villa Victoria, Wynona Lipman and Kemsco public housing complexes were also included.

Arrests were made for various warrants, drug charges, aggravated assault and other offenses, officials said. 

Extra cops on duty for July 4 weekend in Newark

Ambrose said the locations were selected by analyzing crime statistics, crime trends, along with complaints about drug activity and quality of life concerns.

"This initiative is part of the department's continuing crime fighting strategies and commitment to address our citizen's criminal and quality of life complaints through the use of sustained operations and strategies," the public safety director's statement said. "We continue to make progress with a reduction in overall crime of 20 percent so far this year."

In addition to the arrests, police also issued 19 quality of life summonses, checked 41 businesses, stopped several people with bicycle-related violations and conducted two road safety checkpoints, according to authorities. One bicyclist was also arrested on drug charges.

Residents were urged to provide information to police through the city's tip lines at 877 NWK-TIPS (877-695-8477) or NWK-GUNS (877-695-4867). Crime Stoppers would be kept confidential.

Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahycFind NJ.com on Facebook.

Family of woman killed in fatal Parkway crash creates fundraiser

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Donations would help the family of 56-year-old Esperanza Guardado-Quintani bury her in her hometown in El Salvador.

 

ELIZABETH -- The family of a woman who was killed in a single-car crash Friday evening on the Garden State Parkway has created an online fundraiser to help pay for burial in her hometown in El Salvador. 

Esperanza Guardado-Quintani, 56, was killed after being ejected from a 14-passenger van after it flipped over near Exit 117. Charles Derosier, a 30-year-old Irvington resident, also died in the crash, which injured 12 others.

Both were pronounced dead at the scene, police said. 

On a GoFundMe page created Saturday, Blanca Amor of Roselle, who says Guardado-Quintani is her aunt, is asking people to donate to help her family bury Guardado-Quintani alongside the graves of her grandmothers in Central America. 

"My aunt was very shy, honest, caring, and such an innocent person," Amor wrote on the page, which has gained $140 in donations as of Sunday morning. "She dedicated her life to taking care and aiding my grandmother and great grandmother back home in El Salvador."

No one has been charged in connection to the fatal crash as of Saturday, authorities said.

Luke Nozicka may be reached at lnozicka@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @lukenozicka. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Man shot after dispute in Newark

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The man is in stable condition.

NEWARK -- A man was shot Sunday morning on Springfield Avenue, Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose said.

The man is in stable condition, Ambrose said.

Police have not identified a suspect, Ambrose said. The man appears to have been involved in a dispute before he was shot.

Myles Ma may be reached at mma@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MylesMaNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

 

2 men charged with gun possession in Newark

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The two Newark men had a gun in the car at the John W. Hyatt housing complex Saturday night, police said.

NEWARK -- Two city men were arrested Saturday night after officers found them with handguns at a housing complex, police said. 

Newark police responded to the John W. Hyatt housing complex, located on Roanoke Court in the city's Ironbound section, shortly before 10 p.m. after receiving an anonymous tip, Capt. Derek Glenn said in a news release.

The citizen called police to report that two men were circling through the housing complex with a gun in their vehicle, Glenn said.

Based on a vehicle description provided by the citizen, police were able to stop the car and arrest both men inside of it, according to Glenn.

Michael Rodriguez, 34, and Santos Jimenez, 37, both of Newark, were each charged with possession of a handgun. They may face additional charges after the investigation is complete, Glenn said.

Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose urged residents to call police when they have information about armed suspects, guns, crime and quality of life complaints in the state's largest city.

Police asked anyone with information about this incident or any other crime to contact the department's 24-hour Crime Stoppers' tip line at 877 NWK-TIPS (877 695-8477) or NWK-GUNS (877 695-4867). All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential, police said. 

Alex Napoliello may be reached at anapoliello@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @alexnapoNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

 

N.J. pets in need: July 4, 2016

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Dogs and cats throughout northern New Jersey need forever homes.

It seems intuitive, but it's worth a reminder -- Fourth of July fireworks and fare don't necessarily mix with pets.

4th-of-july-dog-tppcdottv.jpgPets as well as people can have fun on the Fourth. 

A national study conducted by BluePearl Veterinary Partners found that animal hospitals see a 25 percent increase in visits over the Fourth of July holiday.

Here are some tips to help keep your pet from being one of those medical emergencies:

*    Many pets are frightened by the loud explosions of fireworks. Staying home to comfort a nervous pet may be more important than watching display.

*    Some dogs are prone to run at the sound of the pyrotechnics. Be sure doors are closed and gates are shut.

Noise phobias are real problems for some dogs, and even some cats, according to
Maureen Blaney Flietner, writing for the American Animal Hospital Association. While there are medications available to treat this condition, pet owners may not have to go that far; pets can be conditioned to deal with loud noises like fireworks.

One of best ways to do that is to teach your pet to go to a safe place when he is afraid, she explains. For example, it might be his crate, a spot in the basement or a closet, or even under the bed. It should be fixed up to be a bunker-like place, insulated from the sounds and away from windows.

When your pet is first getting used to it, help by engaging him with play, treats, or affection.

*    It's not unusual for emergency veterinarians to treat dogs for a corn cob or a rib bone they have swallowed.  So, be careful of what your dog may find during a backyard barbecue or a gathering at the park.

*    Be aware of other foods, too. Canines can get sick from avocados, apple seeds, caffeinated beverages or alcohol, onions, potatoes, grapes, tomatoes, chocolate and sugar-free gum containing xylitol.

Here's a gallery of dogs and cats in need of adoption in northern and central New Jersey. More adoptable pets can be seen by clicking here and here.

Greg Hatala may be reached at ghatala@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregHatala. Find The Star-Ledger on Facebook.

4-alarm Newark blaze displaces 28 residents, injures firefighter

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More than 100 firefighters battled the blaze in four residential buildings

NEWARK - A four-alarm blaze that spread to multiple buildings in Newark late Sunday displaced 28 residents and sent a firefighter to the hospital for evaluation, authorities said.

newark-fire-2.pngA four-alarm blaze spread to multiple buildings in Newark late Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of Newark police) 

More than 100 firefighters battled the fire, which was reported in a three-story residence on Pennsylvania Avenue shortly after 11 p.m., authorities said.

When firefighters arrived, they found multiple three-story buildings involved and by midnight, the blaze had been escalated to four alarms.

The fire damaged four buildings, three of them occupied. One of the buildings was a 2 1/2 story new construction house. The fire was declared under control by 2:38 a.m., authorities said.

A firefighter was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, authorities said. Additional details on the firefighter's condition were not immediately available.

The Newark Fire Division's Community Service Unit and the American Red Cross were assisting the 21 adults and 7 children displaced by the fire.

At least two of the buildings are likely to be demolished from the extensive damage, though a final determination will be made after an inspection on Monday, authorities said.

Online campaign raises $17K for son of woman killed in 5-vehicle crash

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The fundraiser was created to assure her 11-year-old son "has the opportunity to succeed in life, regardless of any unfortunate events that try to prevent that."

WEST CALDWELL -- An online fundraiser created to financially support the 11-year-old son of a woman killed Friday morning in a five-vehicle crash has gained more than $17,000 in donations. 

Maria Tauro, 33, of Caldwell, was rushed to St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center in Paterson after the crash near Passaic and Fairfield avenues, which also injured an on-duty township police officer. Tauro was declared dead at the hospital.

In less than a day, 182 people have donated more than $17,600 to the GoFundMe page set up to assure her son Nicholas "has the opportunity to succeed in life, regardless of any unfortunate events that try to prevent that."

"Maria was a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, friend, and above all things a SINGLE mother," user Lisa Marie, of Caldwell, wrote on the page. "She did whatever she had to, to make sure Nicholas had an amazing life."

Luke Nozicka may be reached at lnozicka@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @lukenozicka. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

25 North Jersey Super Football Conference games we can't wait to see

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The new league born this offseason is ready to go with several marquee matchups sure to have diehard fans salivating

Newark man dies days after city shooting, authorities say

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The man was shot on July 1, and died on July 4, officials said.

newark police.JPGNo arrests have been made in the shooting. (File photo)
 

NEWARK -- One man has died from injuries he sustained in a July 1 shooting, authorities announced in a release Monday.

Raheem Ards, 38, of Newark, was shot in the 400 block of South 17th Street last Friday, Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose said in the release. He died from his injuries at University Hospital Monday at 8:12 a.m., they said.

Authorities said they are continuing an investigation into the fatal shooting. No arrests have been made, they said Monday.

Jessica Mazzola may be reached at jmazzola@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessMazzola. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Newark loses record it probably never wanted anyway

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Snowfall record at Newark Liberty International Airport gets stripped away after weather experts finish review of the measurements.

It's now official: The monster blizzard of January 2016 will not go down in the record books as the biggest snowstorm in Newark history.

Turns out it was actually the third-biggest snowfall ever recorded in New Jersey's largest city.

The National Weather Service recently concluded a review of the snowfall measurement procedures at its climate monitoring station at Newark Liberty International Airport and confirmed that weather contractors working for the FAA had improperly measured the snow at 28.1 inches after the January blizzard. That would have been an all-time city record.

The "snow measurement team" that conducted the review -- meteorologists from the weather service's New York regional office and climate experts from the office of New Jersey State Climatologist David Robinson at Rutgers University -- determined the actual amount of snow that fell at the airport during the blizzard was 24.5 inches.

Wet weather lingers in South Jersey

With this determination, the top snowfall on record in Newark is once again the big blizzard of January 1996, which clobbered the city with 27.8 inches of snow. The second biggest is 26.7 inches from a snowstorm in late December 1947. The January 2016 blizzard melted down to third place.

"The team found that the observations at Newark Airport were taken each hour on a snowboard by the contract weather observers during the storm, with the snowboard being cleared hourly," the weather service said in a statement on June 24. "National Weather Service Guidelines for snow measurements call for clearing the snowboard every six hours."

Hourly measurements tend to result in higher snowfall readings because piles of snow usually get compacted, shrinking slightly in height, over several hours. So, six-hour measurements are considered more accurate than one-hour measurements.

Tim Morrin, a weather service representative who served on the snow review team, said the team established the new snowfall total for Newark airport by analyzing reliable snowfall data from other weather stations in the Newark region and also by checking the liquid equivalent of the snow that fell into the airport's precipitation gauge.

Meteorologists use a formula to estimate the amount of frozen precipitation based on the volume of melted liquid, Morrin said. Snowstorms with a lot of moisture tend to have a 10-1 ratio, which equates to 10 inches of snow for every inch of liquid that falls from the sky.

Morrin said the January 2016 blizzard had a slightly higher ratio because the snow was a little drier. So, based on the liquid measurement in Newark and the snowfall measurements in neighboring sites, the snow team ruled 24.5 inches was the most accurate depth of the Newark snow.

Morrin noted that snow measuring "is certainly not an exact science," but he said it is vital for weather observers to follow the strict guidelines that have been established by the National Weather Service for consistency and accurate record-keeping.

In the case of Newark airport's weather contractors, there was what Morrin called "a slight breach in operation etiquette." 

The fact that the contractors took snow measurements every hour was not improper, because those numbers are needed for snow removal efforts on the airport's runways, he noted. What was improper, he said, was using those hourly numbers to determine the total snow accumulation.

Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @LensReality. Find NJ.com on Facebook.


It will feel like 100 degrees for several days this week, forecasters say

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First widespread heat wave of 2016 summer to hit New Jersey this week, with steamy temperatures and high humidity.

Get those air conditioners cranking.

Most of New Jersey is facing its first official heat wave of 2016 this week, with temperatures soaring into the 90s for three straight days, and possibly four.

With high humidity added to the mix, these dog days of summer will feel as hot as 100 degrees, and perhaps as steamy as the low 100s, according to the National Weather Service.

Although the Garden State has had some 90-degree days and lots of 80-degree days during the past few weeks, many of those were dry and comfortable.

"When you start throwing in that humidity, that's when you feel it the most," said Valerie Meola, a meteorologist at the weather service's regional office in Mount Holly.

Newark's 2016 snow 'record' melts away

Pockets of heavy rain that drenched New Jersey late Monday night and early Tuesday morning have moved out to sea, but humidity levels will be rising Tuesday night and are expected to remain high through the rest of this week.

At the same time, temperatures will be rising into the low 90s on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday across most of the state, with slightly lower temperatures along the Shore and in northwestern counties.   

The heat index -- what the temperature will feel like when combined with the humidity - is expected to rise as high as the century mark and even above that.

"On Thursday, it'll feel like it's in the upper 90s to about 100 in most parts of the state," Meola said. On Friday, most areas will get heat that feels as hot as the low 100s.

Some relief can be found along the coast, where it will feel like the lower 90s on Thursday and low to mid-90s on Friday, Meola said.

As is typical with this type of July weather pattern, there's a chance of isolated or scattered showers and thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday, as well as Saturday, before temperatures move back down to the upper 80s inland and lower 80s along the Shore on Sunday and Monday.

Heat advisory for several counties

In advance of the heat wave, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Camden, Gloucester and Mercer counties, as well as northwestern Burlington County, effective from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday.

In addition, an excessive heat watch has been posted for the same regions of New Jersey from Thursday morning through Friday afternoon.

"Dangerous heat is expected, primarily in the late morning through the late afternoon hours," the heat watch alert reads.

During the heat wave this week, the weather service advises people to take common-sense precautions against heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses. 

"The best advice is to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, and in an air-conditioned place," the weather service says. "If you work or spend time outside, take extra precautions, such as frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations. Also wear clothing that is light weight and loose fitting. If possible, reschedule strenuous activities for the early morning or evening, when cooler temperatures prevail."

Additional heat safety tips can be found on this page of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. 

Hot days in May and June

Despite some 90-degree days during Memorial Day weekend in late May, so far this year there have been no official heat waves in most parts of northern and southern New Jersey, according to climate data from the National Weather Service and the New Jersey Weather and Climate Network at Rutgers University.

In Central New Jersey, Trenton and Hillsborough both had a three-day heat wave from June 19 to June 21, with temperatures ranging from 90 to 93 each day.

Atlantic City had four 90-degree days in June, but no three-day stretch of intense heat, the data shows. Newark had only three 90-degree days in June, but not a string of three in a row.

Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @LensReality. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

3 Newark men arrested after airsoft gun, cocaine found in car

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The men, ages 18, 19 and 22, were arrested during a West Windsor traffic stop

WEST WINDSOR -- Three Newark men are facing various charges after police say an airsoft gun and crack cocaine were found inside their car that was pulled over.

west windsor police.JPGWest Windsor Police, file photo. 

On June 28 at 2:39 a.m., Patrolman Nicholas Barber was on a neighborhood check of the Colonial Park development when he noticed a car parked on Jeffrey Lane with its tail lights on, police said. Barber turned around to check on the car, but it had already begun driving.

He pulled over the 2006 silver Subaru for motor vehicle violations at Rumford Way and South Mill Road, police said.

The driver, 19-year-old Zagar E. Melvin II, had a black KJ Works airsoft handgun with the orange safety tip covered with black tape. He was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of an imitation firearm, police said.

The front-seat passenger, 18-year-old Tyrie R. Bullock, was charged with possession of crack cocaine and another passenger, Iqueal I. Murray, 22, had outstanding warrants from Newark totaling $19,000, police said.

Melvin and Bullock were released pending future court dates in West Windsor Township Municipal Court and Murray was turned over to the Newark Fugitive Task Force.

Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

25-year-old Maplewood man killed outside Union home

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A murder victim found outside a Union Township home was identified as 25-year-old Maplewood man.

UNION -- Authorities identified a man found dead outside a Union Township home as a 25-year-old Maplewood resident.

Police found Matthew Murrell in a side yard outside 870 Salem Road just before 5 a.m. Tuesday, according to acting Union County Prosecutor Grace Park.

Murrell was pronounced dead at the scene a short while later, Park said. Authorities have not said why police went to the house or what injuries Murrell suffered.

However, a $10,000 reward was quickly offered to for information leading to an arrest an indictment in the case.

Police used yellow caution tape to cordon the house and put up a canopy and tarp. Investigators could be seen taking photographs in and around the canopy on the side of the house.

Neighbors on the street of neatly kept single-family homes said they were not familiar with the residents of the house.

Park said the county's Homicide Task Force and Union police are conducting a joint investigation with county park police and county sheriff's office identification unit.

Anyone with information about this matter is being urged to contact task force Sgt. Johnny Ho at (908) 403-8271 or Detective Rudolfo Correia at (908) 418-5800.

The Union County Crime Stoppers also are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case; tips can be given anonymously by phone at 908-654-TIPS (8477), via text message by texting "UCTIP" plus a message to 274637 (CRIMES), or online at www.uctip.org.

This homicide investigation comes five days after a Plainfield woman was shot and killed in the backyard of a home in that city, and eight days after police discovered the bodies of a Springfield woman and her father in their home.

Tom Haydon may be reached at thaydon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Tom_HaydonSL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Got an illness that marijuana could help? N.J. wants to know

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The state medicinal marijuana program began serving patients in December 2012.

TRENTON -- People with debilitating illnesses who believe they could be helped by marijuana have a unique opportunity to ask the state Health Department to consider adding a condition to the list that would qualify them for medical cannabis program.

Health Commissioner Cathleen Bennett on Tuesday announced people could go to the department's website and download a form they could complete specifying a medical condition that ought to be covered by the program

A newly appointed medical review panel will consider the suggestions and make recommendations to Bennett, who has the final say whether any illnesses are added. The review panel will hold a public hearing that will allow people who submitted a petition an opportunity explain their requests, according to Bennett's announcement.

"The New Jersey Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel will evaluate each petition based on scientific and medical research available," according Bennett's announcement. "This process builds on the medical model, which is the backbone of the state's program."

It is the first time the Christie administration has asked for the public's input on which conditions ought to be included beyond those contained in the 2010 law. Patients and their advocates have repeatedly asked for more conditions - particularly post traumatic stress disorder - to allow the program to thrive and reach more people for whom traditional, FDA-approved drugs and therapies have failed.

Medical marijuana program stagnating, critics say

 State legislators also have unsuccessfully passed legislation to include PTSD. 

Members of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana of New Jersey, a group founded by and for patients and their advocates will submit petitions asking the health department to include autism, PTSD, chronic pain and neuropathic pain, said Ken Wolski, the group's executive director.

"We're glad that the DOH has finally given us a date to submit these petitions, but we are disappointed that it has taken so long to get started," Wolski said. 

The law required the health department to issue two annual reports before the state would expand the list of conditions. The health department delayed issuing those reports, however, submitting the second only only last March. 

The department will accept the forms via certified mail only from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31, Bennett's announcement said. The requests must include: a description of how physicians view this as a "valid" condition and marijuana is a successful treatment; the availability of conventional medical treatment other than those that cause patient suffering; and letters of support from doctors and other licensed medical professionals.  

The conditions that qualify people for the program are amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, (Lou Gehrig's disease); multiple sclerosis; terminal cancer; muscular dystrophy; inflammatory bowel disease including Crohn's disease; any terminal illness.

Patients for whom conventional treatment has failed may qualify if they have a seizure disorder including epilepsy; intractable skeletal muscular spasticity; and glaucoma. People with HIV/AIDS and cancer may qualify if treatment has caused severe or chronic pain, severe nausea or vomiting, or cachexia or wasting syndrome.

There are 8,162 patients registered with the program, and 472 "caregivers" - people who have passed background checks and are cleared to retrieve cannabis from a dispensary on a patient's behalf.

The first of five dispensaries began serving patients in December 2012. The dispensaries are located in Montclair, Egg Harbor, Woodbridge, Cranbury and Bellmawr. One has yet to open, in Secaucus.

See the health department's website for more information at nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/

Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.

 

Dangerous heat, unhealthy air to choke N.J. on Wednesday

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An air quality alert has been issued for all 21 counties in New Jersey, and an excessive heat warning is in effect for several counties.

A combination of "dangerous heat" and bad air quality expected on Wednesday has prompted a series of advisories and alerts from the National Weather Service and the state Department of Environmental Protection.

An excessive heat warning is in effect for Camden, Gloucester and Mercer counties, as well as northwestern Burlington County, from 11 a.m. on Wednesday to 6 p.m. Friday.  

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The National Weather Service has also issued a heat advisory for Essex County and New York City, from 1 p.m. through 8 p.m. Thursday. 

The heat and air quality alerts were issued in advance of the wave of hot and humid weather that will arrive Wednesday morning and linger into Saturday. In most parts of the Garden State, temperatures are expected to climb into the mid 90s, and the combination of heat and humidity - known as the heat index -- will make it feel like it's about 100 degrees or higher at times this week.

"Dangerous heat is expected, primarily in the late morning through the late afternoon hours," the heat alert reads. "Hot and humid conditions may lead to strain on those outdoors in the heat along with sensitive groups, such as the elderly, children and pets."

Forecasters are calling for a sunny afternoon, with highs around 94 across the state and a slight breeze. 

In addition to the NWS advisories, the state DEP has issued a code orange air-quality alert for all 21 counties in New Jersey, effective early Wednesday morning through 6 p.m. Wednesday. The alert means "air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups," such as children, the elderly and people suffering from asthma, heart disease and other lung ailments.

"The effects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors," the alert says.

Overnight, temperatures will dip to around 70 degrees. Patchy fog is expected in parts of the state around 3 a.m. 

It could feel like 100 for several days this week

More of the same hot and humid weather is on tap for Thursday, with a threat of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Highs will be in the mid 90s and lows around 70 degrees at night again. Rain is also possible in the evening into Friday. 

Despite the intense heat that's expected Wednesday, the mercury will be far from record territory, meteorologists said.

To match their all-time high temperature for July 6, Freehold and Marlboro would have to hit 100 degrees, Atlantic City would have to hit 102 degrees, and Newark, New Brunswick and Plainfield would have to hit 103 degrees.

Those daily records were all set in 1999 or 2010, according to climate data from the National Weather Service.

For more information on ground-level ozone and fine particles in the air, check www.airnow.gov. Tips on how to avoid heat-related strokes and other heat-induced ailments can be found on this page of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management: www.ready.gov/heat

More New York City weather

More Philadelphia weather 

Craig McCarthy may be reached at CMcCarthy@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @createcraig. Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @LensReality. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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