TAPinto

09/19/2025

Hoboken Council Approves Cannabis Ordinance After Heated Debate

The Hoboken City Council has passed a measure clarifying the city’s cannabis ordinance following a tense discussion.

The ordinance allows dispensaries that applied before a 2022 amendment—banning cannabis businesses within 600 feet of early childhood learning centers—to remain open despite the restriction.

While supporters, including Mayor Ravi Bhalla, said the vote provides clarity and fairness for businesses and residents, opponents argued it benefits a single operator and sets the wrong precedent.

For more local government updates across New Jersey, visit your community TAPinto site.

Read the report on TAPinto Hoboken: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/hoboken/sections/government/articles/hoboken-council-approves-cannabis-ordinance-after-heated-debate

09/19/2025

Federal authorities say a Romanian man has been sentenced to more than 6 years in prison for an ATM skimming scheme that hit communities in both New Jersey and Chicago — including Cranford and Westfield.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office reports the group stole more than $177,000 by installing hidden card readers and cameras on ATMs.

The case broke open in March 2024, when Westfield detectives discovered a device and caught the suspect in the act.

“This was some exemplary police work by Detectives Merritt and Carrero,” Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro said.

Read more details on the investigation and sentencing here: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/cranford/sections/law-and-justice/articles/cranford-atm-scam-tied-to-177k-skimming-scheme-romanian-man-sentenced

09/19/2025

A lawsuit has been filed against Daniel Finkle, who was just approved as the incoming principal of Hightstown High School.

The complaint alleges Finkle made discriminatory remarks to a former colleague and failed to follow student safety protocols while serving as principal at Cherry Hill East High School.

Finkle, who is slated to begin his new role on November 10, denies the allegations.

East Windsor Regional School District officials say they were unaware of the lawsuit when they approved his appointment.

Stay informed on education, government, and community updates — check your local TAPinto site for news that impacts you.
TAPinto East Windsor/Hightstown

Daniel Finkle, incoming Hightstown High principal, sued over alleged discriminatory language and safety protocol failures at Cherry Hill East High School

09/16/2025

Bloomfield celebrated progress this weekend with the ribbon-cutting of the new Pitt Street Lot.

After nearly three years of work, the renovated lot brings safer parking, stronger infrastructure, and eco-friendly features like a rain garden to reduce flooding.

Township leaders say the project will also boost local businesses by making the area more accessible.

Read more on TAPinto Bloomfield about the township’s investment in economic growth and sustainability.
Read: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/bloomfield/sections/community-announcements/articles/bloomfield-nj-opens-eco-friendly-pitt-st-parking-lot

09/16/2025

Florham Park is set to review new regulations on e-bikes and e-scooters aimed at improving safety for riders and pedestrians.

The proposed ordinance will be discussed at the September 18 Borough Council meeting at 6:30 p.m., where the public is invited to share feedback.

Local students and families will also have access to a safety presentation from the Police Department’s School Resource Officers.

Read the full story here on TAPinto East Hanover and Florham Park: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/east-hanover-slash-florham-park/sections/government/articles/florham-park-to-review-e-bike-and-e-scooter-ordinance-at-september-18-council-meeting

09/16/2025

Farming families took center stage in Montville Township as the community came together to honor the town’s deep agricultural roots.

From dairies and orchards to farm stands and pick-your-own crops, residents shared stories, artifacts, and memories that brought Montville’s farming history to life.

Read more on TAPinto Montville about the families who built Montville’s farming legacy and how their traditions still shape the community today: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/montville/sections/montville-memories/articles/farming-families-take-center-stage-in-montville-township-cc5d11ca-822b-44a7-ad1b-e799bbcad915

09/15/2025

Big crowds, fun contests, and even a Wrestle Pro show — F***y Wood Day 2025 in Fanwood had it all!

TAPinto Scotch Plains and Fanwood was there capturing the moments for the community.

Check out the photos from this year’s event, then click through for even more highlights from the day: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/scotch-plains-slash-fanwood/sections/community-life/articles/scenes-from-fanny-wood-day-in-downtown-fanwood-743bd69d-d9f2-44e0-88a8-34c345c98ffa

09/12/2025

Empowering Women Through Fashion and Confidence

Dress for Success NSW & ACT Central New Jersey is helping women step into new opportunities with confidence.

The nonprofit, which recently opened a new space in New Brunswick, provides professional attire, training, and support to women entering or re-entering the workforce.

On Sept. 17, the organization will host Fashion For a Cause at the Zimmerli Museum, where nine women connected with the program will walk the runway in outfits that reflect not just style, but also self-esteem and resilience.

The mission of Dress For Success is simple but powerful: equip women to overcome obstacles and achieve economic independence.

Read more on TAPinto New Brunswick: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/new-brunswick/sections/community-happenings/articles/dress-for-success-tailor-made-for-women-looking-to-enter-workforce

09/11/2025

Residents Raise Alarm Over Developer’s Changes to West Essex Highlands Plan

At this week’s West Orange Council meeting, WeCare President Joe Pannullo and resident Herb Waldman spoke out about major changes to the West Essex Highlands project — including moving one building 50 feet closer to a steep slope than originally approved.

They warned of safety concerns tied to slope stability, fire access, and ADA compliance, while also questioning whether the developer violated the original settlement agreement.

Council members echoed those concerns, saying public safety and environmental protections must come first.

For updates on local planning board and council decisions in your community, check your local TAPinto site.

Read the full story on TAPinto West Orange: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/west-orange/sections/government/articles/wecare-president-a-west-orange-resident-talk-about-west-essex-highlands-developer-changing-the-original-plans

09/11/2025

Sixteen Millburn High School seniors have been named 2026 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists, placing them among the nation’s top students.

They’ll now compete for nearly $26 million in scholarships awarded next spring.

Congratulations to these accomplished students on reaching this milestone!

Follow TAPinto for education news and local achievements across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida.

Read the full story on TAPinto Millburn and Short Hills: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/millburn-slash-short-hills/sections/education/articles/16-millburn-high-school-students-are-2026-national-merit-semifinalists

09/10/2025

ICE Takes Individual into Custody in South Orange

On Tuesday, Sept. 9, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took an individual into custody in South Orange, one day after two similar actions in town on Sept. 8.

Mayor Sheena Collum thanked residents who quickly shared information, which enabled her and the South Orange Police Department to identify and meet with the individual’s family.

Read more on TAPinto SOMA: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/soma/articles/ice-takes-individual-into-custody-in-south-orange

09/10/2025

Raising Cane's Coming Soon to Edison Township

Chicken finger fans won’t have to wait much longer — Raising Cane’s is set to open its newest New Jersey location on Route 1 in Edison this December.

The restaurant will feature two drive-thru lanes, indoor and patio seating, and the chain’s signature simple menu of chicken fingers, fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and Cane’s Sauce.

Love hearing about new restaurants, stores, and community spots?

Check your local TAPinto site for announcements like this near you.
TAPinto Edison
READ: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/edison/sections/food-and-drink/articles/raising-cane-s-in-edison-township-plans-to-open-in-mid-december