Explore New Jersey Friday Round-Up, Jake Thistle is 21 Today, Belmar Restaurant Tour, Westmont Diner, UFC 316, Whole Foods Daily Shop, 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Paula Cole, High School Softball, Diner Watch, Open Space Preservation, Legal Spotlight…

⚖️ Legal Spotlight:
The NJ Supreme Court has upheld the denial of compassionate release in a high-profile case, reaffirming legal standards in a decision that’s sparking conversation statewide.

🍴 Food & Flavor:

  • Savor the best of the Shore at the 17th Annual Dine & Discover Belmar Restaurant Tour—a feast of flavors you won’t want to miss!
  • 🍰 Sweet meets sustainable in Maywood, where Kukki Vegan Bakery is now open and serving up delicious plant-based treats.
  • Looking to beat the heat? Try Jersey Girl Cooks’ frozen yogurt bites—cool, easy, and made with local love!
  • Plus, Whole Foods Daily Shop is heading to Hoboken’s bustling Main Street. Get ready for ultra-fresh shopping in a new format!

🔥 Quick Action in Haddonfield:
Thanks to fast-acting responders, a fire at Westmont Diner was quickly contained—disaster averted, and community spirit intact.

💰 Rising Homebuilding Costs:
New tariffs are driving up homebuilding costs. Garden State homeowners—this one’s for you. Stay informed on how this may affect your next renovation or new build.

🎶 Music & Entertainment:

  • 🎉 Jake Thistle celebrated his 21st birthday in style at Wonder Bar—cheers to a rising Jersey star!
  • 🎤 On Sale Today at The White Eagle: Comedy favorite Anthony Rodia
  • 🎸 Starting tonight: Don’t miss Vundabar + Yot Club, Sarah Kinsley, Buffy Prom, Karunesh Talwar, and Youth Lagoon
  • 🎵 Also on sale today at The Starland: The Starting Line, Armor for Sleep, and Oso Oso

🥋 UFC Fans Alert:
🎟️ Presale alert! UFC 316 hits the Prudential Center on Saturday, June 7—sign up now for exclusive presale access.

🎸 Coming Soon:
🔥 Mark your calendars—on sale next Friday, April 18 at 10am ET: Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace with Return to Dust performing September 10.

🏒 Devils Hockey:
With the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs looming, the New Jersey Devils are looking to build momentum. See where they stand in the NHL playoff picture as of today, April 11.

🏫 High School Sports:
Softball roundup highlights Pennsbury’s triumph, Bordentown’s dominance, and more across the Garden State.

🏗️ Politics & Policy:

  • Governor Murphy has proposed a new phone line tax to fund the 988 crisis hotline. With elections ahead, the political implications are heating up.
  • GOP gubernatorial candidates are ramping up the rhetoric ahead of the June primary showdown.
  • On the national stage, Alina Habba is making waves, calling out NJ’s sanctuary state policies and announcing a federal probe.

🌿 Celebrating Conservation:
Morris County celebrates over 30 years of open space preservation with an interactive StoryMap showcasing its achievements.

💼 Business News:
The NJ Chamber of Commerce has just launched its Inaugural Young Professionals Board, aimed at empowering the next generation of Garden State leaders.

🍽️ Diner Watch:
From nostalgic favorites to brand-new bites, get the scoop on new dining openings and closures around New Jersey.


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