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2025 NJSLA Results Show Charter Schools Outpacing District Peers

By
Moses Lookman
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The New Jersey Department of Education released the spring 2025 New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA) results last week, providing updated insight into student performance in reading and math across all public school districts. The data shows that charter schools continue to post strong outcomes, particularly in urban communities with high concentrations of economically disadvantaged students.

Statewide, charter schools serve about 64,000 students. More than three-quarters of these students, or 76%, come from economically disadvantaged households, and a large majority are students of color. Across all charter schools, 51.9% of students demonstrated reading proficiency, compared with a statewide average of 53.1%.

Key Takeaways
  • Charter school students in New Jersey’s largest cities are far more likely to meet grade-level reading and math standards than students in district schools.
  • Jersey City and Newark charter schools exceed the statewide reading proficiency rate, while Plainfield and Paterson outperform their own pre-pandemic benchmarks.
  • Charter schools primarily serve economically disadvantaged and diverse student populations while continuing to demonstrate measurable academic progress.

Jersey City and Newark Charter Schools Post Reading Rates Above the State

Jersey City charter schools recorded the highest reading proficiency results in the state. The city has 11 charter schools enrolling nearly 7,000 students. Student demographics show that 34% are Black, 32% are Latino, 22% are Asian, and 14% are White. Roughly two-thirds of students, or about 66%, are economically disadvantaged. The 2025 NJSLA data shows that 58.6% of Jersey City charter students are reading at grade level, which is 5.5 percentage points higher than the statewide rate.

In Newark, charter schools also exceeded the state average in reading for the third consecutive year. The city enrolls about 20,000 charter school students, with 85% coming from low-income backgrounds. Results from the 2025 assessment show that 53.6% of Newark charter students achieved proficiency levels 4 or 5 in English language arts, slightly higher than the statewide proficiency rate of 53.1%. Both district-run and charter schools in Newark have recorded steady academic improvement over recent years.

Robert Treat Academy Charter School in Newark surpassed the statewide reading proficiency rate by 17 percentage points, even though the school serves nearly twice the share of economically disadvantaged students compared with the state as a whole.

Charter Students Consistently Outperform District Peers in Major Cities

A closer review of assessment results across six cities with the largest charter school enrollments—Newark, Camden, Paterson, Trenton, Jersey City, and Plainfield—shows similar trends. Charter school students in these cities are, on average, 71% more likely to read at grade level and 65% more likely to meet grade-level expectations in math than students attending district schools.

When viewed statewide, charter students are about half again as likely to reach grade-level reading standards, or 50% more likely, and nearly half again as likely, or 47% more likely, to meet math standards compared with district peers. These figures reflect the share of students scoring at proficiency levels 4 or 5 on the NJSLA in English language arts and mathematics.

The New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association points to instructional focus, extended school days, additional professional development, and consistent school culture as factors connected to these outcomes.

Plainfield and Paterson Charter Schools Exceed Pre-Pandemic Reading Benchmarks

Plainfield operates five charter schools serving approximately 3,300 students. Among this group, 84% are from economically disadvantaged households, and 14% are multilingual learners. Reading proficiency among Plainfield charter students rose from 39.9% in 2019 to 51.2% in 2025, marking a double-digit increase beyond pre-pandemic levels.

In Paterson, charter schools serve around 7,400 students, with 86% identified as economically disadvantaged. Alongside easing overcrowding in district schools, Paterson charters posted reading proficiency rates of 48.7% in 2025, surpassing the city’s 2019 pre-pandemic rate of 47.1%.

Queen City Academy Charter School in Plainfield, a K–12 school enrolling 506 students, also exceeded its pre-pandemic reading proficiency level. At Queen City, 87% of students are economically disadvantaged. The school’s 2025 results show reading proficiency that is 12 percentage points higher than the statewide average, supported by data-driven instruction, personalized learning strategies, and added academic supports such as weekday and Saturday academies.

Trenton Charter Schools Represent a Majority of Grade-Level Readers

Trenton charter schools serve about 4,200 students. Of these students, 85% are economically disadvantaged, 10% receive special education services, and 9% are multilingual learners. Analysis of 2025 results shows that charter students in Trenton are four and a half times more likely to read at grade level than their district peers.

Although charter schools enroll about one-fifth, or 20%, of Trenton’s public school students, they account for nearly three-fifths, or close to 60%, of all students reading at grade level in the city. Foundation Academy Charter School in Trenton reported a 22 percentage point increase in reading proficiency since 2022 and is now performing above pre-pandemic levels while approaching the statewide average.

Camden Schools Record Faster Growth Than the State Average

Camden district, charter, and renaissance schools have shown accelerated improvement compared with statewide trends. The share of Camden students reading at grade level increased from 17% in 2022 to 27% in 2025, reflecting a 10 percentage point gain that more than doubled the statewide improvement rate over the same period.

From 2024 to 2025, Camden charter and renaissance schools also posted year-over-year gains, with reading proficiency rising by 4.2 percentage points and math proficiency increasing by 3.3 percentage points across all grade levels.

New Jersey Signs New Law to Address Chronic Absenteeism in Public Schools

By
Moses Lookman
-

A new New Jersey law aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism in public schools has taken effect following its signing by Acting Governor Tahesha Way. The legislation, Bill S-3776, was sponsored by State Senators Shirley K. Turner (D-15) and Angela V. McKnight (D-31) and is designed to closely examine why students miss school and how attendance can be improved across the state.

Key Takeaways
  • New Jersey has enacted Bill S-3776 to form an 18-member volunteer task force focused on chronic absenteeism in public schools.
  • Statewide chronic absenteeism peaked at 18.1 percent in the 2021–2022 school year and continues to approach 40 percent in districts including Trenton, Camden, and Paterson.
  • The task force is required to deliver a report with findings and legislative recommendations within one year of being organized.

Formation and Membership of the Chronic Absenteeism Task Force

The legislation establishes an 18-member Chronic Absenteeism Task Force composed of education professionals, school leaders, and parent advocates. Appointments will be made by the Governor, legislative leadership, and the New Jersey Commissioner of Education. Among the public members selected by the Governor will be representatives recommended by Jobs for America’s Graduates New Jersey and the Princeton Area Community Foundation.

Task force members will serve in a volunteer capacity without compensation. The law allows the task force to request support and assistance from the New Jersey Department of Education during the course of its work.

Purpose of the Task Force and Areas of Study

The task force is charged with examining patterns of chronic absenteeism across New Jersey, with a particular focus on the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on student engagement. One of its responsibilities is to compare current absenteeism data with attendance figures from before the pandemic in order to identify changes and trends.

Under the law, chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10 percent or more of the school year. The task force will conduct a root cause analysis to assess factors contributing to absences, including barriers to attendance, student disengagement or aversion to school, and the role of physical and mental health challenges. The review will also cover school climate, discipline policies, family circumstances, financial difficulties, and how exposure to COVID-19 has influenced attendance behavior.

Review of Best Practices and Family Engagement Strategies

Beyond identifying causes, the task force is required to examine national best practices that have been effective in improving attendance elsewhere and evaluate how those approaches could be applied across New Jersey. The law also directs the task force to develop strategies aimed at strengthening family engagement as a way to support consistent school attendance.

Legislative Statements on Attendance and Student Support

Senator Shirley K. Turner has identified chronic absenteeism as a major challenge for schools, particularly in urban areas where students often face challenges beyond academic instruction. She said that inconsistent attendance results in missed learning opportunities and contributes to students falling further behind, and that the legislation is focused on understanding underlying causes and implementing practical solutions to support student participation and engagement.

Senator Angela V. McKnight states that attendance is an indicator of whether students feel connected to their schools and supported in their learning environments. She described the task force as a mechanism for translating research into actionable policies that address attendance challenges and produce measurable outcomes.

Attendance Data Driving the Legislation

Chronic absenteeism has risen across the country since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In New Jersey, the statewide rate reached its highest point at 18.1 percent during the 2021–2022 school year. Although the rate declined to 14.9 percent in the 2023–2024 school year, absenteeism remains significantly elevated in several urban districts. In Trenton, Camden, and Paterson, rates continue to hover near or around 40 percent.

Reporting Requirements and Timeline

The law requires the Chronic Absenteeism Task Force to submit a final report to the Governor and the New Jersey Legislature within one year of its organization. The report must present the task force’s findings along with legislative recommendations informed by its research and analysis.

Michael Porter Jr. Scores 27 as Nets Beat Nuggets 127-115 in Reunion Game

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
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Michael Porter Jr. returned from illness and led the Brooklyn Nets to a 127-115 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The win, witnessed by a sellout crowd of 17,548, snapped Brooklyn’s three-game losing streak and moved the Nets to 11-22.

Porter finished with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in his first game against Denver since being traded last offseason.

“I was excited for that first matchup against them, really since I’ve been traded and just how that whole thing went down,” Porter said. “I probably felt more nervous for this one than a lot of other games.”

Key Takeaways
  • Michael Porter Jr. led Brooklyn with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in his first game against Denver since being traded, helping the Nets snap a three-game losing streak.
  • Brooklyn dominated the glass and shot efficiently in a decisive third-quarter run, turning a close game into a comfortable win.
  • Porter’s expanded role and confidence with the Nets continue to show, as Brooklyn remains winless without him but strong when he plays.

Porter’s Post-Trade Role Expansion Drives Brooklyn’s Offense

Porter spent six seasons with the Nuggets after being selected No. 14 overall in the 2018 NBA Draft and was a starter on Denver’s 2023 NBA championship team. He was traded to Brooklyn in the offseason for Cam Johnson and Denver’s 2032 first-round pick after Denver moved him in a salary-related deal.

In Denver, Porter often played behind the Nikola Jokic–Jamal Murray offense. With the Nets, his role has expanded significantly. He entered the game averaging a career-high 25.8 points, making him the only player in the Eastern Conference averaging at least 25 points and seven rebounds.

“I feel the difference when a coach really believes in me, and when they second guess the shots you take,” Porter said. “Jordi and this whole Nets organization’s done a great job of that with me.”

Nuggets coach David Adelman, who previously worked alongside Nets coach Jordi Fernández, acknowledged Porter’s talent and his adjusted role.

“He’s got a lot of freedom here,” Adelman said. “This trade was good for everybody. He won a championship with us. We know how talented he is.”

The increased responsibility also showed up in betting markets. Entering the matchup, sportsbooks listed Porter’s points prop at 26.5. He finished with 27. Brooklyn also entered the night as a slight underdog at several books, with spreads around Nets +2 and a total near 224.5. The Nets covered comfortably, aided by Denver playing without Nikola Jokic, who was sidelined for perhaps a month with a hyperextended left knee.

Nets’ Rebounding Advantage and Third-Quarter Run Break Game Open

Brooklyn controlled the glass throughout the night, outrebounding Denver 44-33. That advantage supported a balanced offense, as the Nets had a season-high six players score at least 13 points.

The Nuggets remained close early. Jamal Murray hit a jumper with 0.2 seconds left in the second quarter to cut the Nets’ lead to 59-52 at halftime. Murray finished with 27 points, a career-high 16 assists, and six rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr. added 26 points, Aaron Gordon scored 20 off the bench in his return from a 19-game absence due to a strained right hamstring, and Christian Braun started and scored four points after missing 23 games with a sprained left ankle.

Early in the third quarter, Murray fed Peyton Watson to make it 63-56. Brooklyn responded with a decisive 21-10 run over the next five minutes. The Nets hit eight of nine shots during the stretch, including all four three-point attempts. Egor Dëmin contributed five points and two assists, capped by a three-pointer off a Porter pass that pushed the lead to 84-66 with 5:10 remaining in the third.

Brooklyn scored 41 points in the quarter, shooting 7-for-9 from three-point range, and carried a 100-84 lead into the fourth.

Nets’ Depth Secures Win as Futures Odds Stay Long

Denver briefly cut the margin early in the fourth quarter when Hardaway opened the period with two three-pointers. Brooklyn answered with a 12-0 run, with Cam Thomas scoring the final seven points to extend the lead to 112-90.

Noah Clowney finished with 22 points for the Nets. Thomas and Day’Ron Sharpe each scored 17, with Sharpe starting at center in place of Nic Claxton, who was out for personal reasons. Sharpe also recorded six rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

“Coming in, I told everybody we’re locked in,” Sharpe said. “We just wanted to rally as a team to help get the Dub for [Porter].”

Despite the win, Brooklyn remains a long shot in futures markets. Championship odds across sportsbooks range widely, from around +25000 at some outlets to +100000 or longer at others, while the Nets’ odds to make the playoffs sit near +3500. The numbers reflect Brooklyn’s record and Porter’s availability, as the Nets are winless without him this season but have won eight of their past 11 games when he plays.

For Denver, the loss dropped the Nuggets to 1-4 on their seven-game Eastern road trip and to 1-2 since Jokic’s injury. Cam Johnson, acquired in the trade for Porter, missed the game with a knee injury.

Before tipoff, Murray acknowledged the unusual nature of the matchup, telling Porter, “It’s so weird actually going against you instead of being with you.”

“Those are my brothers,” Porter said. “We won the championship together. To compete against each other instead of with each other is definitely a different experience.”

Mayor-Elect Emily Jabbour Names Christian Duffy as Chief of Staff

By
Moses Lookman
-

Mayor-elect Emily Jabbour announced Christian Duffy will serve as her Chief of Staff as the city prepares for her January 15 swearing-in. The selection places Duffy in a senior position at Hoboken City Hall during the transition to the new mayoral term.

Jabbour said Duffy has been a trusted ally and brings extensive government and political experience to the position. She added confidence that his presence in City Hall will help move Hoboken forward.

Key Takeaways
  • Mayor-elect Emily Jabbour announced Christian Duffy as her Chief of Staff before her January 15 swearing-in in Hoboken, New Jersey.
  • Duffy brings more than a decade of experience from political campaigns and senior government roles at the state level.
  • His background includes advising Jabbour’s mayoral campaign and managing successful congressional and legislative races, including a historic district flip.

Foundations of a Political Career in Hoboken

Christian Duffy’s political career began in Hoboken after he earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. In 2013, he worked as an organizer on then-Mayor Dawn Zimmer’s re-election campaign, beginning his involvement in local and state political work.

This early campaign experience established his connection to Hoboken and served as the starting point for a career that would later expand to state and national political work.

Campaign Work Across Multiple States and Government Service in New Jersey

Following his initial work in Hoboken, Duffy spent more than ten years working on political campaigns and serving in government positions. His campaign experience extended beyond New Jersey and included work in Alaska, Nevada, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

In New Jersey, Duffy served as the Hudson County Political Coordinator for Governor Phil Murphy’s re-election campaign in 2021. He later worked as Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman Annette Quijano and to State Senator Joseph Cryan, both representing the 20th Legislative District.

Management of Congressional Races and a Historic Legislative Victory

Duffy managed the 2024 congressional campaigns of U.S. Representative Rob Menendez in New Jersey’s 8th District and U.S. Representative Herb Conaway in New Jersey’s 3rd District. Both campaigns resulted in successful elections.

He most recently managed Assemblyman Vinnie Kearney’s campaign, which flipped New Jersey’s 21st Legislative District for Democrats for the first time in more than 30 years. During the same election cycle, Duffy also served as a Senior Advisor on Emily Jabbour’s mayoral campaign.

Role and Responsibilities as Chief of Staff

Upon accepting the position, Duffy said he is grateful for the opportunity to serve and said Hoboken is where his political career began. He shared his interest in working alongside Mayor-elect Jabbour to help create a City Hall that is more transparent, collaborative, and responsive to residents.

As Chief of Staff, Duffy will assist with coordinating City Hall operations and supporting the mayor’s priorities as the new administration prepares to take office in Hoboken.

Yankees Sign Veteran Infielder Paul DeJong to Minor League Deal

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
-

The New York Yankees made their first acquisition of the new year by signing veteran infielder Paul DeJong to a minor league contract that includes an invitation to Major League Spring Training. DeJong would earn $1 million if he made the Major League roster. The Yankees have not officially announced the signing.

The agreement was first reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand confirmed the deal through a source, and ESPN also confirmed the agreement on Sunday. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported the financial details of the contract. DeJong is 32 years old and has nine years of Major League experience.

Key Takeaways
  • The Yankees signed veteran infielder Paul DeJong to a minor league contract that includes an invitation to Major League Spring Training.
  • DeJong provides infield depth and experience as the Yankees prepare to open the season without shortstop Anthony Volpe.
  • The deal includes a $1 million salary if DeJong makes the Major League roster.

Quiet Offseason Moves and the Context Behind the Signing

The Yankees’ offseason has been limited in terms of outside additions, with most of the organization’s activity focused on retaining players from its 2025 roster. The most significant move came in November, when outfielder Trent Grisham accepted a qualifying offer valued at $22.025 million.

Despite the slow pace, the Yankees have indicated they intend to do more. The team has been vocal about its desire to re-sign infielder and outfielder Cody Bellinger, who is believed to have received a formal offer from the Yankees in late December. Published reports have also connected the Yankees to a more limited free-agent pursuit of infielder Bo Bichette if Bellinger signs elsewhere.

On the pitching side, the Yankees are known to be among the teams that have expressed trade interest in Miami Marlins right-hander Edward Cabrera and Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Freddy Peralta, as the club expects its starting rotation to be impacted by injuries early in the season.

Betting Markets Reflect Stability Amid Roster Uncertainty

While the Yankees have not made major external additions, sportsbooks have shown little movement in their futures markets. Current World Series odds list the Yankees at +700 at FanDuel, +750 at DraftKings and BetMGM, and +850 at Caesars and PointsBet. DraftKings’ odds have remained at +750 since early November, with no reported changes through December and into the new year. Caesars has also listed the Yankees at +850 without recording movement.

In the American League futures market, the Yankees are listed at +310 to win the AL, according to DraftKings odds tracked by Action Network. The consistency in pricing reflects steady market positioning despite injuries and ongoing roster questions.

DeJong’s Career Background and Recent Performance

DeJong was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2015 MLB Draft and advanced quickly through the minor leagues. He made his Major League debut in 2017 and became the Cardinals’ everyday shortstop, hitting 25 home runs in 108 games and finishing second in National League Rookie of the Year voting.

In 2019, he was named an All-Star after hitting 30 home runs and producing 5.2 bWAR. Following that season, St. Louis signed him to a six-year contract extension that ran through the 2023 season and included club options for 2024 and 2025.

DeJong’s offensive production declined beginning in the shortened 2020 season. From 2020 through 2022, he hit .196/.280/.351. He returned to roughly league-average production in 2023 across 81 games, which led the Cardinals to trade him shortly before the deadline to the Toronto Blue Jays as injury protection for shortstop Bo Bichette.

His performance fell sharply over the final two months of that season while playing in Toronto and San Francisco. DeJong finished that stretch 12-for-93 with a .129/.128/.183 slash line in nearly 100 plate appearances. He later signed with the Chicago White Sox on a $1.75 million guarantee and delivered a stronger season in 2024, hitting 24 home runs with a 96 wRC+ across 139 games while splitting time between third base and shortstop for Chicago and Kansas City.

Last season with the Washington Nationals, DeJong’s year was disrupted in April when he was hit in the face by a Mitch Keller fastball, fracturing his nose and sidelining him for ten weeks. He returned in July and finished the season batting .228 with six home runs and a .642 OPS in 57 games. Over 208 plate appearances, he recorded a 76 wRC+.

Infield Versatility and Competition for Roster Spots

DeJong brings experience at all four infield positions. With the Nationals, he started 32 games at third base, 11 at second base, seven at shortstop, and one at first base. His versatility is particularly relevant as the Yankees prepare to begin the season without shortstop Anthony Volpe, who underwent left shoulder surgery in October and is not expected to play in big league games until April or May.

DeJong joins an infield mix that includes Amed Rosario, who finalized a one-year, $2.5 million Major League deal with the Yankees on Dec. 30 and is expected to platoon with left-handed-hitting Ryan McMahon at third base. Other infield options include José Caballero, Oswaldo Cabrera, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last May, and Zack Short, who signed a minor league contract with the Yankees in December.

He will also compete with Jorbit Vivas and Braden Shewmake for available bench roles, while backup catcher J.C. Escarra is expected to occupy one of the team’s four bench spots. The infield picture could continue to shift depending on additional signings, trades, or the eventual return of injured players.

Magic Johnson’s 42-Point Rookie Night at Center Wins the 1980 NBA Title

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
-

On May 16, 1980, in Philadelphia, rookie Earvin “Magic” Johnson delivered one of the most memorable performances in NBA history. With Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sidelined by a severely damaged ankle, Johnson started at center in Game 6 of the NBA Finals and led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 123–107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. The win secured the championship for Los Angeles, closing the series four games to two and ending an eight-year title drought.

Johnson, a 6-foot-9 point guard, finished the night with 42 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists and was named Finals Most Valuable Player, the first of three such awards in his career.

Key Takeaways
  • On May 16, 1980, rookie Earvin “Magic” Johnson played center for the injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and led the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA championship.
  • Johnson recorded 42 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists in a 123–107 Game 6 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
  • The Lakers won the Finals four games to two, earning their first NBA title since 1972.

From NCAA Champion to No. 1 Pick and a 60-Win Rookie Season

Johnson arrived in the NBA after leading Michigan State to the 1979 NCAA championship, defeating Indiana State and Larry Bird in the most-watched college basketball final ever. Later that year, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Johnson with the first overall pick in the NBA Draft.

Johnson’s rookie season immediately changed the direction of the Lakers. The team finished the regular season with a 60–22 record, improving by 13 wins from their 47–35 mark the year before. At the center of the team was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who averaged 24.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game and was named the NBA Most Valuable Player for the regular season.

Playoff Push and a Turning Point in the Western Conference Finals

During the playoffs, the Lakers defeated the Phoenix Suns four games to one and advanced to the Western Conference finals against the defending champion Seattle SuperSonics. After losing a close Game 1, Los Angeles took a 3–1 series lead.

At halftime of the deciding fifth game, Abdul-Jabbar gave an emotional, angry pep talk, urging the team to raise its level of play and finish the series. He followed with 38 points, 11 rebounds, and seven blocked shots. Johnson, playing with a 101-degree fever, recorded a triple-double. The Lakers won 111–105, earning a place in the NBA Finals.

NBA Finals Matchup and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Injury

In the Finals, the Lakers faced the Philadelphia 76ers, led by Julius “Dr. J” Erving and Darryl Dawkins, along with Bobby Jones, Maurice Cheeks, Doug Collins, Steve Mix, Caldwell Jones, and Lionel Hollins. Through the first five games, Abdul-Jabbar dominated, averaging 31 points and 12 rebounds as Los Angeles took a 3–2 series lead.

During Game 5, Abdul-Jabbar twisted his ankle and was ruled out for Game 6. The injury was significant enough that the Lakers traveled to Philadelphia without their star center and left their championship champagne in Los Angeles, expecting the series to return for a seventh game.

Game 6 in Philadelphia: Magic Johnson Plays Center

With Abdul-Jabbar at home resting his ankle, Johnson took over the center role in Game 6. He scored 13 points in the first period, nine points in each of the second and third quarters, and 11 in the fourth, totaling 42 points. He also collected 15 rebounds and seven assists while playing every position on the floor.

Johnson and Jamaal Wilkes combined for 79 points, with Wilkes scoring 37. The game shifted early in the third quarter when the Lakers went on a 14–0 run, turning a 60–60 tie into a 74–60 lead. Los Angeles scored 33 points in the third quarter and led 93–83 entering the final period.

Philadelphia rallied in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to two points three times. With 6 minutes and 40 seconds remaining, Caldwell Jones scored to make it 99–97. Steve Mix tied the game at 99–99 with 5:51 left, and Bobby Jones narrowed the score to 103–101 at 5:11. Johnson and Wilkes then scored five consecutive points to push the lead to 108–101, after which the Lakers were not seriously threatened.

Julius Erving led the 76ers with 27 points, but the Lakers’ double-teaming limited his effectiveness late. The sellout crowd of 18,276 watched as Los Angeles closed out the game and the championship.

Quotes, Coaching Decisions, and Rare Rookie Achievement

After the game, Johnson credited his injured teammate.
“We did it for Kareem,” Johnson said. “He carried us this far and I’m sorry he couldn’t be here. I want to send him my thanks and my love.”

Johnson also reflected on the moment, saying, “This is unreal. This is it. You can’t go any higher than this. This has to be my greatest thrill in basketball.”

By winning the NBA championship in his rookie season after capturing an NCAA title the previous year, Johnson became one of the rare players — alongside Bill Russell and Henry Bibby — to achieve that milestone.

Rookie head coach Paul Westhead guided the Lakers using speed and fast breaks after taking over early in the season when Jack McKinney suffered a head injury in a bicycle accident. Philadelphia was unable to capitalize on Abdul-Jabbar’s absence, as the Lakers’ quickness disrupted Darryl Dawkins and Caldwell Jones inside.

Before the game, Johnson showed his confidence by taking Abdul-Jabbar’s usual first-row seat on the team flight to Philadelphia, winking at Westhead, and telling his teammates, “Never fear, E.J. is here.”

Totally Rad Vintage Fest Brings 80s, 90s & Y2K Style to Secaucus

By
Moses Lookman
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Totally Rad Vintage Fest is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, and Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. The event takes place from 10 am to 5 pm EST on both days and is held indoors. The venue address is 355 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ 07094, USA.

Key Takeaways
  • Totally Rad Vintage Fest runs Saturday and Sunday, January 17–18, 2026, from 10 am to 5 pm EST at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ.
  • The event centers on 80s, 90s, and Y2K fashion and nostalgia, featuring vintage vendors, a free-play arcade, the Rad Rewind Museum, and themed photo ops.
  • Ticket options include Early Entry at $25, General Admission starting at $8, free admission for children 12 and under, and varied vendor pricing inside the event.

Vintage Vendors and Product Selection

The event features a rotating collection of vintage vendors, with most specializing in vintage clothing and accessories from the 80s, 90s, and Y2K eras. Additional vendors offer records, toys, memorabilia, and home goods. The number of vendors and product selection varies by event, and items shown in promotional videos, photographs, or graphics may not be available at the Secaucus show.

Pricing inside the event varies by vendor. Shoppers can find high-end collectibles priced at $100 or more, as well as $5 piles and $10 racks, with most items priced between $20 and $40. Vendors accept cash, and many also accept credit cards and mobile payment systems, including PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App.

Attendees are encouraged to wear vintage-inspired outfits and showcase retro looks during the event.

Free-Play Vintage Arcade and Rad Rewind Museum

Totally Rad Vintage Fest includes a Free-Play Vintage Arcade, where attendees can play classic video games from past decades. The arcade is open to all guests and is designed to reflect the gaming culture of earlier generations.

The event also features the Rad Rewind Museum, also referred to as the Rad Relic Museum. This exhibit includes a curated selection of retro technology, gadgets, and cultural artifacts from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, presented as a walkthrough experience focused on historical design and nostalgia.

Nostalgic Photo Ops and Media Guidelines

Throughout the venue, attendees can access nostalgic photo ops set within recreated scenes inspired by earlier decades. Guests are encouraged to take photos and share them on social media using the official hashtag #TotallyRadVF.

Professional cameras and cameras with detachable lenses are not allowed inside the event. Small point-and-shoot cameras and GoPro-style cameras are permitted.

Ticket Options, Entry Times, and Attendance Details

Tickets are available in advance and at the door. Early Entry tickets cost $25 and allow entry on Saturday at 8:30 am, before General Admission begins. General Admission tickets cost $8 in advance and $12 on the day of the event. Each General Admission ticket is valid for one entry on either Saturday or Sunday.

General Admission entry begins at 10 am, which is typically the busiest time. Attendees seeking a less crowded experience are advised to arrive after 1 pm. Children aged 12 and under are admitted free, provided they are accompanied by an adult at all times.

Tickets are non-refundable, but they may be sold or given to another person using the QR code provided in the confirmation email. The on-site box office accepts cash and card payments

Event Policies and Guest Guidelines

Bags are allowed inside the event, and security reserves the right to search bags at any time. Pets are not permitted, including dogs, cats, or other animals, with the exception of service animals, which are allowed.

For safety reasons, masks or facial coverings that obscure or prevent identification are not permitted for guests aged 13 and older, unless worn for medical purposes.

Totally Rad Vintage Fest is described as a constantly evolving event, with new features added over time. Event details are subject to change.

Vendor Participation and Contact Information

Vendor applications for upcoming and announced shows are available through the vendor application link in the main menu of the official Totally Rad website. The event accepts vintage or vintage reworked vendors only, and vendors selling true vintage items from earlier than the 1980s are welcome and encouraged to apply. Updates on future vending opportunities are shared through the vendor email list.

Questions about the event can be directed to [email protected].

Rebuild by Design Hudson River Project Update Meeting Set for Jan. 8

By
Moses Lookman
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Flood protection construction continues at Hoboken’s northern and southern ends as New Jersey moves forward with a long-term plan to reduce flood risk along the Hudson River. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will host a virtual public meeting on Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. to provide updates on construction progress and outline the next phases of the Rebuild by Design–Hudson River Project.

The project was developed in response to Hurricane Sandy in 2012, when a storm surge flooded Hoboken with more than 500 million gallons of water and caused over $100 million in private property damage. The flooding exposed weaknesses along the waterfront, which, in turn, led to the creation of a regional flood protection effort.

Key Takeaways
  • A virtual public meeting is scheduled for Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. to share construction updates and upcoming steps for Hoboken’s flood protection work.
  • The Rebuild by Design–Hudson River Project was created after Hurricane Sandy to address flooding risks in Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken caused by storm surge, high tides, and heavy rainfall.
  • The project includes more than 9,000 linear feet of floodwalls, 26 floodgates, sewer system upgrades, and improvements to Harborside Park, which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Origins and Purpose of the Rebuild by Design–Hudson River Project

The Rebuild by Design–Hudson River Project is a flood protection system focused on safeguarding portions of Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken. It originated from the Rebuild by Design competition, launched by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the summer of 2013 following Superstorm Sandy. The competition sought solutions to strengthen physical, ecological, economic, and social resilience in storm-impacted areas.

The Hudson River proposal was selected as one of six winning projects. HUD awarded $230 million to the State of New Jersey to carry out the project across the three municipalities. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection later secured additional funding through FEMA and the American Rescue Plan (ARP).

Project Area and Infrastructure Integration

The project study area runs from the Hudson River on the east to Baldwin Avenue in Weehawken on the north, the Palisades on the west, and 18th Street, Washington Boulevard, and 14th Street in Jersey City on the south. Construction of the primary flood protection structures is concentrated along Lincoln Harbor Road in Weehawken, Washington Street in Hoboken, and 18th Street in Jersey City.

The system addresses flooding from storm surge, high tides, and heavy rainfall. Flood protection structures are integrated into surrounding neighborhoods through features such as benches, planters, murals, lighting, and educational signage.

Current Construction Under the Resist Contract

Construction is moving forward under the Resist contract, the second phase of the Rebuild by Design–Hudson River Project. The contract was awarded to E.E. Cruz & Company, Inc. on July 31, 2023. Exploratory work began in late October, including test pitting to locate underground utilities, and continued through early December. Construction of the floodwalls is expected to begin in January 2024.

The Resist contract includes two work zones. The North work zone covers northern Hoboken and parts of Weehawken, while the South work zone includes southern Hoboken and sections of Jersey City.

This phase includes the construction of more than 9,000 linear feet of reinforced concrete floodwalls of varying heights and the installation of 26 floodgates, including rolling floodgates, swinging floodgates, and stoplog barriers. Landscape and architectural elements such as seating, planters, lighting, and educational signs are included. Improvements to Harborside Park are part of this phase, with the park expected to be completed in 2027 and intended to retain floodwater.

Sewer Separation Work Completed Before Floodwall Construction

The first phase of the project, the Sewer Separation Modification (SSM) contract, was completed before floodwall construction began. The contract was awarded in January 2021 and completed in July 2022, with construction costs totaling approximately $6.7 million.

The SSM work separated portions of Hoboken’s combined sewer outfall system into stormwater and sanitary lines, ensuring that storm surge water will not surcharge beneath the floodwall system once constructed.

The completed work included sealing more than 100 existing manholes, installing over 30 new manholes, adding 40 catch basins, installing more than 4,000 linear feet of stormwater pipe, and placing eight water quality units to remove solids and suspended solids before stormwater enters the Hudson River.

Marcus Freeman Shuts Door on Giants, Commits to Notre Dame Through 2031

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
-

Marcus Freeman ended speculation surrounding his future on Monday morning, December 29, 2025, with a post on his X account stating, “2026…run it back. Go Irish ☘️.” The post confirmed that Freeman will remain Notre Dame’s head coach, shutting down any possibility of him interviewing for the New York Giants’ vacant head coaching position during the upcoming NFL hiring cycle.

Key Takeaways
  • Marcus Freeman confirmed he will remain Notre Dame’s head coach after signing a restructured contract that includes a pay raise and an extension through the 2031 season.
  • Freeman’s decision removes the only college coach drawing serious NFL interest from the New York Giants’ head coaching search.
  • The Giants are expected to focus on NFL-experienced, CEO-style head coaching candidates as their search moves forward.

Contract Extension Details and Freeman’s NFL Interest

SI.com’s Pat Forde reported that Freeman’s decision included a restructured contract with Notre Dame that places the 39-year-old’s compensation in the top tier of college football coaches. The deal also adds one year to the original six-year contract Freeman signed last year, extending his agreement through the 2031 season. ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg reported that the university provided Freeman with an enhanced contract as part of the decision.

Yahoo Sports later reported that Freeman informed two NFL teams—the New York Giants and the Tennessee Titans—that he planned to remain at Notre Dame after agreeing to the revised deal. At that time, the Giants and Titans were the only franchises with confirmed head coaching vacancies, though others were expected to open by the following Monday.

Freeman had been widely viewed as a potential top candidate for the Giants’ job, according to USA Today’s Art Stapleton. However, the Giants’ coaching search, led by general manager Joe Schoen, has not disclosed which candidates were formally vetted. SNY Giants insider Connor Hughes previously wrote that the main issue surrounding Freeman was whether he was willing to leave Notre Dame, not whether the Giants were interested.

Freeman led Notre Dame to a 14–2 record last season and a 10–2 record this year, with both losses decided by a combined four points. He has never coached in the NFL, and Yahoo Sports reports that a transition would have required time to adjust to salary cap rules, collective bargaining agreement restrictions, and the process of building an NFL coaching staff. His decision also comes as Notre Dame is now guaranteed a College Football Playoff spot if it finishes ranked in the top 12.

Giants’ Coaching Search Continues Without Freeman

With Freeman no longer a possibility, the Giants will continue their head coaching search. The organization is not expected to retain interim head coach Mike Kafka as the permanent replacement after he took over for Brian Daboll, who was fired following the Week 10 loss to the Chicago Bears. Kafka is expected to receive an interview if he wants one.

Reported candidates with NFL experience include Mike McCarthy, Lou Anarumo, Jeff Hafley, Chris Shula, Steve Spagnuolo, Klint Kubiak, and Kliff Kingsbury. The Giants may also monitor situations involving John Harbaugh in Baltimore and Mike Tomlin in Pittsburgh once the regular season concludes.

As those long-term decisions continue, the Giants are also preparing for their Week 18 home game against the Dallas Cowboys, a matchup that has seen noticeable betting movement.

At DraftKings, Dallas opened as a 4.5-point favorite, with the total set at 51.5 points. The Cowboys were listed at -218 on the moneyline, while the Giants were priced at +180. FanDuel showed more pronounced movement, with the spread shifting from Cowboys -5.5 at open to -3.5. The moneyline moved from Cowboys -290 and Giants +235 to Cowboys -188 and Giants +158, and the total dropped from 52.5 to 51.5.

BetMGM listed the Cowboys at -3.5 with a 51.5 total, while PointsBet also showed Dallas -3.5 with the total holding at 51.5. Across major sportsbooks, the consensus settled between Cowboys -3.5 and -4.5.

Injury Updates and Late-Season Momentum for New York

Injury reports also factored into market movement. Giants safety Jevón Holland left Sunday’s game after injuring his knee while covering the opening kickoff of the second half. Kafka described Holland as day-to-day and said the injury was not expected to extend deep into the offseason.

“I don’t have the full story yet,” Kafka said. “I think we would know if it was really, really bad.”

Other Giants players who missed practice due to injury or illness included Theo Johnson, Jalin Hyatt, Wan’Dale Robinson, Abdul Carter, and Evan Neal. On the Cowboys’ side, injury reports included CeeDee Lamb, Jake Ferguson, and Ryan Flournoy.

Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, both teams are expected to play their healthy starters. The Giants enter the finale after snapping a 13-game road losing streak with a win in Las Vegas, marking their first winning plane ride home in 448 days. Kafka rewarded players with an extra day off following the victory.

“You can hear the guys talking about the game and the plays people were making,” Kafka said. “It was a cool atmosphere. You kind of walked around the plane, you felt the energy. And for all three phases to play the way they did, it was great for everyone to kind of be involved in that.”

ARTS 14C Announces One-Year Postponement of Art Fair 14C

By
Moses Lookman
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ARTS 14C has released an update confirming a change to the schedule of the 7th Edition of Art Fair 14C. Following extensive discussion, internal review, and close examination of calendars, the organization decided to delay the fair by one year. As a result, Art Fair 14C, known as New Jersey’s art fair, is now set to return in May 2027.

According to the organization, Art Fair 14C continues to be a core part of the organization’s work, and many exhibitors, artists, partners, and supporters plan their schedules around it. The updated timeline was selected to support a production process that maintains the care and attention established in earlier editions.

Key Takeaways
  • Art Fair 14C’s 7th Edition will now be held in May 2027, following a one-year postponement.
  • The timing change is based solely on internal capacity and planning priorities, not art market or economic conditions.
  • Submitted applications remain valid, with updates allowed when applications reopen in spring 2026 ahead of the October 13, 2026, deadline.

Organizational Capacity Drives the Decision as Programs Continue to Grow

ARTS 14C stated that the postponement is related to capacity rather than external factors. The organization clarified that the decision is unrelated to the current art market or economic conditions. The adjustment was made to ensure that all work receives the level of care and attention it requires.

Throughout much of 2025, ARTS 14C has been expanding its artist residency and arts incubator programs. Alongside this growth, the team has been developing an ambitious new project that they plan to introduce in January. Advancing this project requires sustained focus, time, and attention. Managing the fair alongside these efforts would divide resources across multiple major initiatives at the same time.

The revised schedule allows ARTS 14C to direct attention to each program individually rather than stretching organizational capacity across overlapping commitments.

Application Updates, Important Dates, and Ongoing Arts Support

ARTS 14C confirmed that everyone who had already started or completed an application for Art Fair 14C has been contacted directly. All submitted applications will remain on file, and applicants will be able to revise and update their materials. Applications will reopen in spring 2026, with a final submission deadline of October 13, 2026.

The update also referenced moments from the 6th Edition of Art Fair 14C, including Centre Pompidou’s interactive space and the Living with Sculpture exhibition, both photographed by Alyssa Ki, which point to the scale and level of preparation associated with previous editions of the fair.

ARTS 14C also shared that donor contributions make it possible to prioritize care over speed, ambition over shortcuts, and long-term impact over quick wins, while continuing year-round support for artists, arts professionals, and audiences.

The team closed the update by thanking supporters for their patience and belief in the long-term vision of ARTS 14C, extending holiday wishes, and expressing excitement about sharing what comes next.

New Jersey Senate Passes Raj Mukherji Payroll Tax Enforcement Bill

By
Moses Lookman
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New Jersey Senate Passes Raj Mukherji Payroll Tax

The New Jersey State Senate has approved Bill S-4219, sponsored by State Senator Raj Mukherji of Hudson County and co-sponsored by State Senator Angela McKnight of the 31st Legislative District. The bill revises payroll tax law for specific municipalities by expanding information sharing between state agencies and local governments, requiring additional payroll reporting from employers, and establishing a funding mechanism to support enforcement.

The legislation applies to municipalities operating under the Local Tax Authorization Act, which permits cities with populations exceeding 200,000 residents to adopt ordinances imposing an employer payroll tax on certain businesses within their boundaries.

Key Takeaways
  • The New Jersey State Senate approved Bill S-4219 to strengthen payroll tax enforcement in municipalities with populations above 200,000, including Jersey City and Newark.
  • After targeted audits and outreach in 2024, Jersey City payroll tax revenue rose from $67.7 million in 2023 to $103 million in 2024.
  • The legislation increases payroll data disclosure, sets fixed quarterly payment deadlines, permits interest on late payments, and creates a funding structure for enforcement.

Changes to Payroll Data Disclosure Between State and Local Governments

Existing law generally restricts the director of the Division of Taxation within the New Jersey Department of the Treasury from releasing state tax return information. This limitation includes large portions of payroll-related data relied upon by municipalities such as Jersey City and Newark. Current disclosures are discretionary and limited to wage and tax withholding information supplied by employers through filings under the New Jersey gross income tax.

Bill S-4219 expands required disclosures by directing the Division of Taxation to provide municipalities with information identifying which employers subject to the payroll tax did report payroll data and which did not for a preceding calendar quarter. By connecting state and municipal data systems, the bill allows local governments to confirm payroll tax compliance and detect employers that fail to report payroll information.

Senator Mukherji stated that providing municipalities access to state wage and withholding data supports fair and consistent payroll tax collection, protects public school funding, and reduces reliance on property taxes. He also stated that the bill advances equal educational opportunity for students in Abbott districts, including Jersey City and Hoboken.

Jersey City Enforcement Actions and Documented Revenue Increases

Jersey City Mayor-elect James Solomon welcomed the Senate’s passage of the bill, citing its importance for taxpayers and public schools. Payroll tax enforcement was a priority during his service on the Jersey City Municipal Council and the 2024 campaign.

In 2024, Solomon drew attention to a Jersey City internal audit that identified several large corporations that had never registered for the payroll tax, despite legal requirements, or had discontinued payments. Following the audit, the city launched a mass mailing campaign targeting unregistered businesses and sent direct correspondence to specific large employers identified as noncompliant.

The audit and compliance review process led to more than 100 businesses newly registering for the payroll tax. Employers that had previously stopped paying also submitted back payments. Payroll tax revenue increased by more than 50%, rising from $67.7 million in 2023 to $103 million in 2024.

Solomon stated that audits of major employers revealed widespread payroll tax noncompliance that reduced funding available to public schools. He also stated that Senator Mukherji collaborated with the Jersey City Board of Education and the mayor’s office to develop legislation that strengthens enforcement authority and improves verification of employer reporting.

Quarterly Payment Schedule, Interest Charges, and Enforcement Authority

Under Bill S-4219, employers must report and pay payroll taxes for each preceding calendar quarter by the last day of April, July, October, and January. Municipal ordinances must outline enforcement mechanisms and define penalties for failure to remit payment.

For late payments, municipalities may impose interest charges of up to 8% annually on the first $1,500 of delinquent taxes and up to 18 percent annually on amounts exceeding $1,500. The bill also establishes a funding mechanism intended to support municipal payroll tax enforcement operations.

Jersey City officials have publicly sought stronger payroll tax enforcement since at least 2021, with a coalition of elected officials forming in January 2024 to press the issue. Separately, during the summer, Senator Mukherji introduced a budget resolution aimed at restoring $4 million in proposed funding cuts to the Jersey City Board of Education.

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