For eight months,? former school superintendent Erick Alfonso has been on paid leave, and he’s been collecting paychecks without ??working.

So far, this paid leav?e has cost Secaucus taxpayers over $106,500, and people want answers.

The big question everyon?e’s asking is why Alfonso is still getting paid even though he hasn’t worked since March.

And it’s not just this case—Secaucus has had a few other leaders who were paid after leaving their jobs, costing the? town even more money.

??Here’s what’s going on and why people are c??alling for change.

Why Alfonso Is on Paid Leave and What It’s Costing

In March 2024, the Secaucus school board put Erick Alfonso on administr??ative leave.

This means he’s ??still technically an employee but doesn’t co?me to work.

The board made this choice because of an investigation into complaints against him, though they haven’t shared ??????????????????????????the details of these complain??ts.

Under district policy, details about school staf??f investigations are rarely made public, so the reason for his leav?e will likely remain a mystery.

Despite not worki?ng, Alfonso has kept getting his regular paychecks.

Here’s how much he’s ??been paid since the leave started:

• $45,000 for the last three months of the 2023�?024 school year
• $61,500 for the 2024�?025 school year so far

In tot??al, Alfonso has been paid $106,500 over the last eight months.

Since he’s still technically employed, he’ll ?keep getting paid until the board decides to do something different or the investigation ends.

His contract with the school dis?trict doesn’t end until June 2026, meaning the school could pay him for a while longer.

Why This Isn’t the First Time

The fact that Secaucus is paying Al?fonso to be on leave isn’t a one-time situation.

In recent years, the??re have been other cases where district leaders were paid even though they weren’t working.

And this pattern of costl??y separations has frustrated m?any people in town.

For example:

• Robert Berckes, a former high school principal, was on leave for a full year but still received his $124,000 salary.
• Jennifer Montesano, the superintendent before Alfonso, left suddenly but kept getting paid after leaving.

These situations and Alfonso’s leave suggest a bigger issue in the board’s handling of its top staff.

Taxpayers feel like their money is being wasted on people who aren’t eve??n on the job, and it’s not hard to see why people are questioning the school board’s choices.

Trying to Fill the Gap with Temporary Help

While Alfonso has been on leave, the school district?? needed someone to fill his role.

To cover this gap, the district asked Charlie Voorhees, the athletic director, to act as the acting superinte?ndent.

Voorhees is getting a small pay bump to cover the difference between his athletic director’s salary and the superintendent’s pay.

Mayor Mike Gonnelli has thanked Voorhees for taking on this extra ??work without a full superintendent’s salary.

Even though this ?arrangement s??aves some money, it’s only temporary.

The district has yet to post?? the job for a? new permanent superintendent, so it’s unclear how long this situation will continue.

Secaucus Residents and Taxpayers Are Calling for Change

With all this ongoing paid leave, residents in Secaucus are wond??ering how much lon?ger they’ll be footing the bill for leaders who aren’t working.

Secaucus has had six different superintendents over the last seven years, and eac??h change ofte?n comes with added costs.

Thus, it’s no wonder people are f??rustrated with how t??hings are run.

With an election for new school board me??mbers coming up, this issue has become an im??portant topic.

Some residents hope the new board members will bring fresh?? ideas on better managing the district’s leaders and spending.

However, Alf??onso will continue to be paid unti?l something changes, and the investigation will continue.

People ??in Secaucus can only wait and hope they’ll soon see a more permanent solution that will end this cycle? of costly turnover and get the district back on track.

Each one has ideas and ??plans to help shape the future of our schools and improve the lives of student??s, teachers, and families.

They all have different views on how to solve some of the district’s challenges, like finding strong leade?rship, supporting special education, keeping great teachers, and planning for future growth.

With s?o many differen?t voices, Secaucus residents need to know what each candidate stands for before voting.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide, giving ?you a closer look at each candidate’s background, experience, and thoughts on the important issues that matter to our community.

With Election Day approaching, please take a mo?ment to get to know the people who want to make a difference in our schools!

1. Melissa Howard: “Advocate for Education”

Melissa Howard, 39, is a current member of the Secaucus School Board and is running ??for another term.

She has l?ived?? in Secaucus since she was nine and has a fourth-grade child at Clarendon School.

Melissa has a strong background in managing public finances and is the treasurer for Berge?n County.

She believes steady leadership is essential, especially when choosing a super??intendent who will fo??cus on the district’s future success.

One of her main con?cerns is keeping skilled teachers, as nearby districts with higher pay can attract them away.

Her goal is to strike the right balance in the budget, e??nsuring the district gets what it needs without putting extra pressure on taxpayers.

And she supports the idea of redistricting but thinks i??t should be done slowly and thoughtfully?.

She believes this could create better learning opport??unities, like offering advanced programs such as STEM in both elementary schools.

At the same time, she wants to make sure the needs of special-needs students?? are met and that families understand any changes.

Melissa sees the district’s main challenges over the next 2-5 years as managing the budget, keeping qualified teachers, and finding the right balance between technology and traditional teaching.

She believes in using digital a??nd printed materials to support different learning needs.

2. Tatiana Geller: “Excellence in Education”

Tatiana Geller has lived in Secaucus? for 24 years.

She has experience in? speech and language therapy a??nd works in Jersey City Public Schools.

Her kids went to Secaucus public schools, so?? she understands what students, parents, and teachers need.

T??atiana’s main goals are to improve special education, ensure the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and provide more support to teachers.

She a??lso wants to expand academic programs, including adding a Humanities Academy at the high school and the existing STEM ?Academy.

Although this is her first time running for public? office, she?? is committed to looking at data and getting feedback before making big decisions, like changing school district boundaries.

She is open to redistricting but wants to carefully review data and hear from? the community befor??e making any choices.

Tatiana wants to consider all possible effe??cts on students and staff, like costs and class sizes.

She believes it’s important to hire a forward-thinking superintendent and improve comm??unication between the board and parents.

She also thin??ks the district needs more staff and space to han??dle the growing number of students, including those from new housing developments and the rise in ESL (English as a Second Language) students.

3. Valerie Giraldo: “Community Winning Resolutions”

Valerie Giraldo has lived in Secaucus since 2002.

She has al??most 20 years of experience working in c?ompliance for investment banks and is now a senior compliance officer.

Her kids went to Secauc??us schools, so she understands the district’s needs.

Valerie wants the board to use data when making decisions, especially for hiring a superintendent? and considering big changes like adjusting school boundaries.

She believes that more stakeholders, ?including teachers and principals, should be involved in decision-making.

Valerie is against the redistricting plan suggested earlier this year because she doesn’t think there is enough evidence that it would help.

While she is open to redistricting in the future, she believes it should ??be based on detailed data and community feedback.

She also thinks the district needs more space and ??staff to handle the growing number of students.

Valerie is concerned about the need for a Pre-K program and how well the district can support the rising number of ESL (English as a? Second Language) students.

4. Audry Yule: “Community Winning Resolutions”

Audry Yule has been a part of the Secaucus community si??nce 2014.

She?? holds an M.B.A. and has experience in marketing and business development.

She has also volun??teered in local youth sports and ?parent-teacher groups.

Audry is dedicated to improving communication between the school board and parents, believing that open and clear communication is key to building trust and making sure famil?ies feel heard.

She wants to find a strong leader for the su?perintendent role and address the needs of special education st??????????????????????????udents.

Audry thinks redistricting could h??elp, but onl??y if the district first deals with concerns like traffic, busing, and costs.

She believes detailed reports on th?ese issues are necessary before making any decisions.

Audry sees the lack of a permanent ?superintendent as the bigg??est issue right now.

She is also concerned about the impact of new developments on ??the district and advocat??es for improved ESL support.

5. Jamie Fisher: “The People’s Voice”

Jamie Fisher, 43, is a registered nurse wh??o has lived in Secaucus for most of her life.

She has worked as a sch?ool nurse and in emergency rooms. Ja??mie has two children who went to Secaucus schools and is expecting her third.

She wants to bring back core le??arning values, with less focus on technology in classrooms and more on traditional methods like reading physical books.

Jamie also believes in providing more support for teachers and special education?? staff to ensure all students ??get the help they need.

She thinks redistricting should be carefully planned and include lots of ???input from parents and the community.

While she’s not against the idea, she feels th??at th?e current plan doesn’t have enough information or community involvement.

Jamie sees t?he town’s growing popula??tion as the biggest challenge, which could lead to overcrowded schools and limited resources.

She believes the district needs to ?plan ahead for more students and focus on managing resources effectively to meet future needs.

6. Gerald Lyons: “Excellence in Education”

Gerald Lyons, 65, has been a te??acher for 38 years and has served on the Jersey City Board of Education.

He recently moved to Secaucus and wants to use his experience in school administration to help t??he local school board.

Gerald believes it’s essential to be open and listen to the community when making decisions.

He supports holding regular meetings to hear fr??om parents before making big changes.

Gerald also wants to expand student opportunities by offering more dual-enr??ollment col??lege courses.

??While he’s open to redistricting, he thinks it should be based on thorough research and include input from the community.

He b??elieves any decision should be based on data, logistics, and the best interests of students, especially those in speci?al education.

Gerald sees special education, ma??naging space, and keeping good staff as major priorities.

He also thinks it’s important for the district to actively apply for grants to support growth and improvements.

For the first time in 15 years as mayor, Mike Gonnelli has endorsed Gerald, Tatiana Geller, and Melissa Howard for the ??school board.

7. Monica Berckes: “A Winning District”

Monica Berckes has lived in Se?caucus for over 25 years.

She?? worked as a senior director at a mark??eting agency, where she developed strong skills in project planning and management.

She has two ch??ildren in the dis?trict and cares deeply about the community.

Monica want?s the school ??board to be forward-thinking, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals.

She stresses the importance of stable leadership and setting yearly goals that align with the district’s vision.

Monica is especially concerned about the constant turnover of superintendents? and thinks that stable leadership is essential for the district’s success.

She does not support the redistricting pla??n that was proposed last year, feeling it was rushed and lacked clear benefits for the community.

However, she’s open to future redistricting efforts if they are well-researched and have strong community supp??ort.

Monica worries about the district’s ??ranking and how it?? might affect property values in Secaucus.

She believes that staff retention and long-term planning need to be addressed to benefit students and ho?meowners.

Monica is committed to helping cre??ate a district that families can ?be proud of.

Upcoming Events and How You Can Vote

You can catch the candidates ??at a forum on October 24 at the high school Performing Arts Center (PAC).

Don Evanson, who publishes the Secaucus Spectator, will lead the event, which will be recorded in case you can’t attend in person.

And Election Day is on November 5.

If you prefer to? vote early, you can do so in person from October 26 to November 3 at the Secaucus Recreation Center.

The vot?ing hours are 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays.

No appointments are ??needed, and you can also vote by mail if that’s more convenient for you.

Make an Informed Choice for Secaucus Schools

Secaucus voters have ??some critical ??choices this year, and many passionate and qualified candidates are running.

As we discussed today, each candidate has a different plan for the school district’s future, whether it’s improving communication, expanding special education, or building long-term stability.

We hope this guide provides you with the information you?? need to choose the candidates who best match your vision for our schools.

Be sure to cast your vote and make your voice heard in s?haping the future of education in Secaucus!

A series of accidents, a bus breakdown, and a sudden train power outage?? led to major delays for people trying to get into New York City.

The chaos left many frustrated and stuck in traffic for hours, creati?ng a nig?htmare morning for anyone on the road or rails.

Accidents in the Lincoln Tunnel Lead to Huge Delays

It all started early in the mornin??g when a motorcycle accident inside the Lincoln Tunnel at around 3:50 a.m. caused the tunnel’s ce??nter tube to close.

Thi??s accident alone wou?ld have caused some delays, but things quickly went from bad to worse.

The tunnel’s north tube was also closed for construction, and just before 7 a.m??., a NJ Transit bus broke down in the sou??th tube.

With only one tube open, traf??fic came to a standstill, and ?the delays stretched for miles.

Some drivers were so fed up that they left their buses and w?alked out of the tunnel.

M?eanwhile, outside the tunnel, accidents on Route 3 in East Rutherford added e??ven more problems.

One car flipped ove?r on the eastbound side, and a crash in?volving an ambulance blocked the westbound lanes.

By the time everything was sorted?? o??ut, people faced delays of over two hours.

In some cases, what should have been ?a 25-minute trip to New York?? turned into a four-hour ordeal.

Rail Problems Add to the Nightmare

Just when it seem??ed like thi??ngs couldn’t get worse, they did.

To help with the traffic jams, NJ Transit started diverti??ng buses to Secaucus Junction, where passengers could switch to?? trains.

However, at around 9:45 a.m., an un??related power outa??ge hit the NJ Transit and Amtrak train lines, shutting down all trains heading into Penn Station in New York.

Although this power outage lasted only 30 minutes, it caused major?? delays.

Even after the power ret?urned, it took an hour for train services to fully resume, leaving thousands of commuters stranded on packed platforms.

Some people switched to PATH trains heading to Hoboken or tried to catch a ferry across the Hudson River, but they found those options just ?as crowded.

UN Street Closures Create Even More Delays

As if the accidents and power issues weren’t enough, Tuesday marked the start of the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan.

Exte??nsive street closures on the East Side created additional traffic jams throughout New York City.

Streets from East 34th Street to East 63rd Street along 1st Av??enue, as well as portions of the FDR Drive, were shut do?wn to accommodate security for world leaders attending the assembly.

Even after the Lincoln Tunnel fully reopened at 9:15 a.m., t??raffic was still moving s??lowly because of the closures.

Drivers who usually rely on the FDR Drive ??or 1st Avenue were stuck in gridlock,? making an already frustrating morning even worse.

Timeline of the Morning’s Chaos

• 3:50 a.m.: A motorcycle crash in the Lincoln Tunnel’s center tube shuts down the tunnel.
• 5:30 a.m.: The NYPD briefly delays the tunnel’s north tube reopening due to a pursuit.
• 6:50 a.m.: A NJ Transit bus breaks down in the south tube, adding to the delays.
• 7:00 a.m.: Accidents on Route 3 in East Rutherford cause more traffic problems.
• 9:00 a.m.: NJ Transit reports 30-minute train delays due to congestion.
• 9:45 a.m.: A power outage halts all train services at Penn Station.
• 10:15 a.m.: Power is restored, but train delays continue for about an hour.

After hours of mounting frustration, commuters f??inally experienced a small sense of relief as services gradually started returning to normal.

However, the damage had alr?eady been done, with many travelers feeling dra?ined, delayed, and overwhelmed by the morning’s chaos.

Despite the reopening of the Lincoln Tunnel and the resumption of tr?ain services, traffic across the city remained heavily congested due to the ongoing street closures for the United Nations General Assembly.

For countless individuals, it became one of the most grueling and?? exhausting travel experiences they could remember.

Usually, Gonnelli prefers to stay out of these races, but this?? year is different.

With ??the election fast approaching on November 5, 2024, Gonnelli has decided to publicly support three candidates: Gerald Lyons, Tatiana Geller, and Melissa Howard.

So, why now? Why break the silence after all this time? Wel??l, the mayor feels the school district desperately needs new leadership?? to address the issues that have piled up over the years.

Gonnelli’s Call for New Leadership

Gonnelli’s decision to endorse candidates didn’t come out of? the bl??ue. He’s seen enough problems in the district to push him into action.

Over the past seven years, the district has cycled through six different superintendents, and they all continued to be paid even when they weren’t working.

Understandably, that k?ind of turnover and financial waste has frustrated many, including Gonnelli h??imself.

His tipping point came with a string of misste?ps by the BOE. Earlier this year, a controversial re-districting plan upset families by shifting hundreds of?? students between schools.

Then, the dis?trict embarrassed itself by having to cancel a promised full-day Pre-K program d?ue to lack of funding.

It was even worse since Governor Murphy had? visited Secaucus to celebrate the program’s launch.

In addition, the BOE quietly suspended Superintendent Erick A?lfonso while still paying his $180,000 annual salary��and neve??r explained why.

Given al?l these problems, Gonnelli felt it was time for some fresh faces to step up and lead the district in a new direction.

Meet the Candidates: Who Gonnelli Endorsed and Why

Now that Mayor Gonnelli has made his historic endorsement, let’s take a close?r look at the candidates he’s backing and why they caught his attention.

1. Gerald Lyons: A School Board Veteran with a Fresh Perspective

Of the three candidates Gonnelli is backing, Gerald Lyons brings the most experience to the table.

Alt??hough Lyons only recently moved to Secaucus from Jersey City, his resume is impressive.

In fact, h??e sp??ent almost a decade on the Jersey City school board, even serving as its president.

Additionally, he’s been a public high school teacher and the principal of the Hudson County Schools of Technology, which is now?? based in Secaucus.

But here’s the interesting pa??rt: Gonnelli himself actually asked Lyons to run.

Though Lyons is a newcomer in town, Gonnelli believes his deep understanding of education and leadership makes him the perfect candidate to help the di??strict.

Lyons might not be a household name yet, but with the mayor’s support, he’s gaining some seri?ous momentum.

2. Tatiana Geller: A Champion for Special Needs Education

Next on Gonnelli’s ??list is Tatiana? Geller, a speech pathologist who specializes in working with special-needs kids.

She’s another new face in town, ??and her background differs from what you usually see on a school board.

Geller ??came to Gonnelli’s attention through Councilwoman Orietta Tringali, who thought she’d be a great fit?? for the Board.

And after checking out her r??esume,?? Gonnelli was on board, too.

He’s confident that ??Geller can bring a much-needed perspective to the Board, especially when it comes to helping students who need extra support??.

Though Gel?ler, like Lyons, is relatively unknown in Secaucus, the mayor is working hard to introduce her to the community.

Essentially, he knows their lack of familiarity ?in town could be a challenge, but he’s optimistic about their potential to win ?people over.

3. Melissa Howard: A Proven Advocate for Education

Rounding out Gonnelli’s trio of endorsements is Melissa Howard, the only in??cumbent candidate he’s backing.

Regarding her experience, Howard has been a Board of Education member and ??is running for re-election.

Her slogan, “Advocate for Education,�?captur?es her mission, ??and Gonnelli sees her as someone who can keep pushing for improvements in the district.

Other Candidates Running For The School Board Election

In addition to the mayor’s picks, severa?l other candidates are running for the Secaucus school board election.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Valerie Giraldo and Audry Yule run together under the “Community Winning Resolutions” platform. Yule ran for the BOE in 2021 but didn’t win a seat.
• Jamie Fisher, running under “The People’s Voice.”
• Monica Berckes, representing “A Winning District.” She previously ran for the board in 2022 but wasn’t elected.

While all these candidates bring different ideas and backgrounds, it’s clear that Gonnelli’s picks—Lyons, Geller, and Howard—have ?caught the most attention.

What’s at Stake on November 5?

As Secaucus approaches its Board of Education ele??ction on November 5, 2024—coinciding with the U.S. presidential election—voters face an important choice.

With three seats up ??for grabs and three-year terms at stake, this election holds significant weight, especially with Mayor Gonnelli’s first-ever public endorsement of school board candidates.

The message is clear: Secaucus schools ne??ed strong, capable leadership to navigat??e ongoing challenges and ensure a better future for students.

By backing Gerald Lyons, Tatiana Geller, and Melissa Howard, Mayor Gonnelli believes these candidates have the experience and vision ?to stabilize and guide the district forward.

In a nutshell, this election is an opportunity to shape the futur??e of educat?ion in Secaucus.

Now, the town’s?? voters can bring meaningful change to the school system and set a ne?w direction for years to come.

At this critical moment, the path forward starts at the ballot box, and the outcome c?ould define the ?future of Secaucus schools.

The arrest followed a tip-off and a search of his home, where police seized sever??????????????????????????al electronic devices.

Thi??s is part of the Secaucus Police’s ongoing efforts to crack down on those involved in child exploitation crimes.

How the Investigation Started

In June 2024, the Secaucus Police got a tip from the New Jersey State Police that someone had uploaded a disturbing image of child sexual abuse, and that image was linked to Dominic Gravina.

The investigation, led by Detective Kristen Bronowich, found that Gravina didn’t j?ust have one image—he had several images of child sexual abuse on his devices.

O??n September 4, 2024, police executed a court-approved search warrant a??t Gravina’s home on Koelle Boulevard.

During the search, they seized several electronic dev??ices that belonged to ??him.

Gravina ??was then arrested and charged?? with Endangering the Welfare of a Child because of the images found in his possession.

Police and ICAC Working Together

The Secaucus Police Department has been working with the Internet Crimes? Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, which focuses on catching people who exploit kids online.

Run by the New Jersey State Police, t??he ICAC Task Force includes officers from a??cross the state.

Since joining the task force back in 2022, the Secaucus Police have enhanced their efforts to tackle online child exploitation b?etter.

Thanks to this partnership, the police were able to investigate the tip about Gravin?a quickly, leading to his arrest.

Detective Bronowich an?d her team worked with ICAC to carry out the search at Gravina’s home and gather?? evidence.

Devices Seized and Ongoing Investigation

While searching Gravina’s house, police took several electronic devi??ces that they believe hold important evidence.

Specialist??s are analyzing these devices to uncover any additional illegal material. And this step is critical in investigations like this bec??ause digital evidence can reveal even more details about the crime.

Although Gravina has been charged and released under current criminal justice laws, the investigation isn’t ov??er.

Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller stated that more ?charges could be added as they continue digging into the evidence.

Gravina is expected to appear in court?? soon, but there’s a chance more information? will come out as investigators look into his electronic devices.

Police Commitment to Protecting Children

Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller strongly supported the detectives working on this ca?se.

He stated that the department will continue to track do?wn child predators and hold them accountable.

Chief Miller called the possession of child sexual abuse images “disgusting” and emphasized that the police are committed to protecting children, who are among the most vulnerable members of society.

This ca??se is just one example of the police department’s dedication to fighting crimes?? that target children.

With the help of the ICAC Task Force, they’re able to go after people who exploit kids online and make sure t??hey face justice.

Lyons is officia??lly running for a seat on the Secaucus school board, and he aims to continue his work in education in a new setting.

In this article??, we’ll delve into what Lyons hopes to accomplish and how his background might shape his approach to the Secaucus school district.

Gerald Lyons’ Commitment to Education

Gerald Lyons, a name well-known in Jersey City’s educational circles, is preparing for a new chapter in his long career.

After spending almost ten years on the Jersey City Board of Education, including time as its president??, he’s now looking to br??ing his skills and experience to the Secaucus school district.

Lyons will be back on the ballot in November after a two-year break, showing that his passion for helping schools and stu?dents remains str??ong.

Gerald Lyons’ Leadership in Jersey City Board of Education

Gerald Lyons made a?? big difference during his time on the Jersey City Board of Education.

He was elected board president in January 2022, and he immediately had to ?deal with serious disagreements among board members.

One of the biggest i??ssues was choos??ing an interim superintendent, which created a lot of tension on the board.

Despite these challenges?, Lyons, who won the presidency ??by a narrow 5-to-4 vote, stepped up to lead the board through this challenging time.

Lyons, one o??f the first openly gay board presidents in Jersey City, also advocated for diversity and inclusion.

In 2020, ?when there was a lot of talk about adding LGBT topics to the curriculum?, Lyons showed his support by wearing an LGBT flag armband at meetings. Commendably, his actions reflected his belief that all students should feel welcome and respected in their schools.

The disagreements within the board, especially about the interim superintendent, showed just how imp?ortant good leadership is.

Lyons was right in the middle, helping guide the discussions and trying to keep th??e board members working together �?he clarified that he valued transparency and following the rules, es??pecially when a resolution was introduced without proper discussion.

This resolution, which suggested making Deputy Superintendent Norma Fernandez the acting ?superintendent, led to a heated debate.

Lyons and his supp?orters wanted to make sure the decision was made carefully and with complete board discussion.

Gerald Lyons’ Advocacy Beyond the Presidency

Gerald Lyons has always been more than a board member �??a passionate advocate for his community.

From pushing to allow public comments to be recorded at meetings to fighting for more openness in how the district makes decisions, Lyons has always stood up for ?what’s right.

He worked to impro??ve school facilities, like removing old trailers and ensured the district communicated better with parents. This clearly shows his deep commitment to making school?s better for everyone.

In a letter to the editor, Lyons strongly supported the “Children First�?team for the upcoming Jersey C??ity Sc?hool Board election.

He?? talked about how he worked closely with candidates Gina Verdibello, Lorenzo Richardson, and Monique K. Andrews and how they all fought together to get more school resources, reduce overcrowding, and ensure the district was accountable.

Lyons�?support wasn’t just about backing ??friends; it was about ensuring the future of Jersey City’s schools was in good hands.

Now retired after a 34-year career with the Hudson County School of Technology, where? he worked in many roles, including as a high school principal, Lyons is still very con?nected to the community he’s served for so long.

His decision to run for the Secaucus school district shows he’s still committed to improving edu?cation.

?With his history of leadership, fairness, and hard work, Gerald Lyons is ready to continue making a positive impact in Secaucus.

Additionally, a new BBQ restaurant? and a grocery st??ore are set to open in the area soon.

Harmon Meadow Plaza Welcomes Six New Restaurants

Harmon Meadow Plaza in Secaucus, NJ, is set to become an even more attractive destination for food lovers.

Six ??new restaurants will open over the next few months, offering a variety of exciting dini?ng options.

1. Shake Shack: A Classic American Favorite

Construction is underway at 700 Plaza Drive inside Harmon Meadow Pla??za, where Shake Shack will soon occupy a 3,200-sq?uare-foot space.

Founded in 2004 in New York City’s Madison Square Park, Shake Shack is known for its traditional burgers, ‘Shroom burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken sandwiches,? crinkle-cut fries, and a rotating selection of milksha?kes.

Shake Shack has already expanded its presence in New Jers??ey with a new drive-thru locat??ion in North Brunswick, and now it’s coming to Secaucus.

2. Dave’s Hot Chicken: Spicing Up Secaucus

Dave’s Hot Chicken, based in Los Angeles, is also joining the lineup at Harmo??n Meadow Plaza. This popular eatery will take over a 2,205-square-foot st?orefront.

Known for its Nashville-st??yle hot chicken, housemade “k?ale slaw,�?creamy mac & cheese, and cheese fries, Dave’s Hot Chicken opened its first New Jersey location in Wayne two years ago.

Their ??flavorful and spicy dishes have quickly become a favorite ?among diners.

3. Cava: Mediterranean Cuisine with a Modern Twist

Maryland-based Cava is set to bring its Mediter??ranean fare to a 3,000-square-foot space in Harmon Meadow Plaza.

Cava offers a variety of modern, customizable dishes featuring 50 fresh and scratch-made ingredients. Diners can look forward to building their meals from a wide selection of M??editerranean staples.

Cava already has a presence in the area, with a l?ocation in Exchange Place along the Hudson River waterfront.

4. KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot: An All-You-Can-Eat Experience

One o??f Jersey City’s h??idden gems, KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, will be opening an 8,870-square-foot restaurant in Harmon Meadow Plaza.

Known for its interactive, all-you-can-eat dining experience, KPOT allows diners to choose from a variety of broth flavors and ingredients, such as Kobe beef, sli?ced chicken, veggies, seafood, and tofu.

This hands-on dining style is sure to attr?act food enthusiasts looking for a unique meal.

5. TSAoCAA: Bubble Tea Delights

Bubble t??ea lovers will be delighted to know that TSAoCAA is coming to Harmon Meadow Plaza.

This popular bubble tea spot, which occupies a 1,354-square-foot space, recently ope?ned in Jersey City and will soon expand to Secaucus.

TSAoCAA is known for its wide range of bubble tea flavors and toppings, offering a refreshing treat for s??hoppers and visitors.

6. Haute Dolce Crepes: Sweet and Savory Crepes

?Haute Dolce Crepes will also be joining the new lineup of eateries at?? Harmon Meadow Plaza.

This crepe shop has leased a 963-square-foot space and will offer a variet??y of sweet and savory crepes, perfect for a quick bite or a del?ightful dessert.

Are you in Hoboken? Check out our list of the best Hoboken restaurants instead.

New Eats and Shops Coming to Secaucus

In addition to the new restaurants at Harmon Mead??ow Plaza, there are other exciting ??developments in Secaucus.

A BBQ restaurant is set to open in the old Carrabba’s location at 485 Harmon Meadow Blvd. While the restaurant’s name has not been disclosed, renovations are underway, and it promises to bring another great dining option to the area.

Furthermore, a grocery store is on track to open in the former mixed m??artial arts studio at ??845 First Street.

Raj Patel, a prominent landowner in Secaucus, owns the 20,000-square-foot building, which includes a warehouse in the back??. The store aims to open by September and will provide residents with a convenient shopping destination.

Explore Top New Dining Spots at Harmon Meadow Plaza

Don’t miss out on the exciting new dining options coming to Harmon Meadow Plaza in Secaucus. With six new restaurants offering a variety of delicious dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re craving a classic burger, spicy hot chicken, Mediterranean flavors, or an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience, you’ll find it all here.

Plan your visit to Harmon Meadow Plaza soo??n and be among the first to taste these new and exciting flavors.

Bring your friends and family and enjo??y a memorable dining experience at one of Hudson County’s top retail spots.

Shooting on the NJ Turnpike

On a Monday afternoon, a 52-year-old man from Houston, Texas, was shot and then physically assaulted on a N??ew Jersey Turnpike ramp in Secaucus.

The incident took plac?e shortly after 2 p.m. at milepost 113, ??Interchange 17.

According to New Jersey State Police Sergeant Jeffrey Lebron, the altercati??on involved two other men who were traveling in the same vehicle as the victim.

Altercation and Shooting Inside the Vehicle

The incident started inside a white Nissan pas?senger vehicle when the victim and the two others got into a dispute while traveling northbound on the Turnpike.

At approximately 2:26 p.m., the?? altercation escalated, leading to the victim being shot??.

Good Samaritan Rescues Assault Victim

Following the brutal assault, a G?ood Samaritan intervened. This helpful individual drove the injured man to Paterson Plank Road in Secaucus Township.

There, they met a Secaucus Police Department officer who arranged for the victim to be transpo??rted to a local hospital for further medical evalu?ation.

Ongoing Investigation and Search for Suspects

New Jersey State Police ?are actively investigating the aggravated assault and sh??ooting.

Authorities are working to gather?? more information about the two male suspects and the events leading up to the incident.

As of now, the investigation remains ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come ?forwa??rd.

Teens Steal Police Car, Lead Cops on a Wild Chase

Early Monday morning, three teens from Jersey City cause?d chaos in Secaucus, New Jersey.

They were found in a stolen Jeep and e??nded up stealing a police car, leading officers on a high-speed chase through several counties.

At 2:42 a.m., Secaucus Police Officer Paul Miller found a stolen 2018 Jeep ?Wrangler at the Sunoco Gas Station on Route 3 East.

The Jeep was reported stolen from Jersey City on June 26. When the police tried to stop the Jeep, the 15-year-old driver rammed into two police cars, hurting an officer’s knee.

One Escapes After High-Speed Chase

The ??teens ran away on foot, but Sgt. Aniello Schaffer quickly caught the 16-year-old fr?ont-seat passenger.

Officers Dwight Wise an?d William Smith?? chased and caught the 15-year-old driver on Route 3.

The third teen, who was in the back seat, saw a chance, jumped into an unattended police car, and drove off.

He led police on a ch???ase through Jersey City, Kearny, and Newark, going over 100 mph.

The police lost sight of th??e car but ??tracked it to Hillside, where they found it abandoned. The third teen is still at large.

Arrests, Charges, and Need for Justice Reform

Secaucu??s Police Chief Dennis Miller was frustrated, especially because the 15-year-old driver had just been released from an electronic monitoring progra??m after previous violent arrests.

Both teens who were caught face serious charges:

15-year-old driver:

• Aggravated Assault
• Possession of a Weapon (vehicle) for an Unlawful Purpose
• Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle
• Criminal Mischief
• Resisting Arrest
• Conspiracy to Commit Receiving a Stolen Vehicle

16-year-old passenger:

• Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle
• Resisting Arrest
• Conspiracy to Commit Receiving a Stolen Vehicle

The 15-year-old was sent to the Morris C?ounty Youth Detention Facility. The 16-year-old was released to his parents and will appear in Family Court.

He called for changes to hold juveniles accountable and give prosecutors the tools to?? deal with repeat offenders effectively.

Chief Miller Expresses Gratitude to the Police

The incident has shaken the local community. Homeowners in Hillside shared doorbell camera footage of police using flashlights and drone??s to search for the suspect.

Chief Miller expressed gratitude to the various agencies involved in the cha?se and search, including the Kearny and Hillside Police Departments, New Jersey State Police, and the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office.

Ongoing Investigation, Police Seek Public’s Help

T??he investigation continues, and more arrests or charges could come. If you have any information, contact the Secaucus Police Detective Division at (201) 330-2052 or email detectivedivsion@sec??aucusnjpolice.gov.

Hadi Matar Rejects Plea Deal in Salman Rushdie Case

Hadi Mata??r, the man charged with stabbing renowned aut??hor Salman Rushdie, has rejected a plea deal that would have shortened his state prison sentence but included a federal terrorism-related charge.

Matar, 26, has ??been held without bail since the attack, which occurred while Rushdie was about to give a lecture at the Chautauqua Institution in western New York.

Hadi Matar Rejects Reduced Sentence Plea Deal

??Matar’s attorney, Nathaniel Barone, confirmed the rejection of the plea deal in Mayville, New York. The agreement proposed that Matar plead guilty to attempted murder in Chautauqua County in exchange for a maximum state prison sentence of 20 years instead of 25? years.

Additionally, Matar would have? had to plead guilty to a federal charge of attempting to provide material support to ??a designated terrorist organization, potentially resulting in an extra 20-year sentence.

This plea deal aimed to resolve both the state and fed??eral charges simultaneously, offering a total prison term of 30 to 40 years and a lifetime of supervision pos?t-release.

However, Matar chose to proceed to trial, where he faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in state prison if convicted of ??attempted murde??r in the second degree. He is also charged with second-degree assault.

2022 Attack on Salman Rushdie and Its Motivations

On August 12, 2022, Matar allegedly rushed onto the stage at the Chautauqua Institution and repeatedly stabbed Sa?lman Rushdie in the neck, stomach, and right eye, causing serious injuries.

Henry Reese, the event moderator, was also injured during the attack. The motivation behind the attack is believed to be linked to a fatwa issued by Iran’s leadership in 1989, calling for Rushdie’s death following the publication of his novel “The Satanic Verses,” which some Muslims consider blasphemous.

Rushdie had spent years in hiding after the fatwa ?but re-emerged in the late 1990s and had been living relatively free??ly for the past two decades.

In his memoir, “Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder,�?pub??lished in April, Rushdie detailed the attack and his recovery.

Background and Personal Life of Hadi Matar

Matar, who was born in the United States and ho?lds dual citizenship in Lebanon, lived with his mother, Silvana Fardos, in Fairview, New Jersey.

Matar became withdrawn and moody after visiting his father in Lebanon in 2018.? Matar’s parents divorced in 2004, and his father returned to Lebanon.

Before his arrest, Matar was a member of the State of Fitness Boxing C?lub in North Bergen, where he? was described as quiet and a loner. Despite efforts by gym members to include him, Matar preferred to keep to himself.

Fardos, in an interview on Lebanese television after her son’s arrest, expressed her despair.

Trial Set for Hadi Matar with Rushdie and Reese to Testify

The trial for Hadi Matar is scheduled to begin on September 9. Both Salman Rushdie and Henr?y Reese are expected to testify.

The trial outcome will determine whether Matar wil??l face the full extent of t?he charges against him and the length of his prison term.

This case continues to draw significant attention due to the high-profile nature ??of the victim and the attack’s motivation rooted in historical and geopolitical tension?s.