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Targets A New Day Belted Pinched Handle Tote Handbag, priced at just thirty-five dollars, is gaining attention for its striking resemblance to the Tory Burch Romy Leather Tote, retailing for nearly six hundred dollars. Both bags share clean lines, a structured shape, and a belted front, embodying the popular relaxed-but-refined trend. The Target bag offers a slightly cinched, architectural look and is available in brown or black, making it a potential last-minute gift idea. Despite its affordability, the Target bag offers more width and a similar sculpted appearance, providing a stylish and practical option without the high price tag.

New Jersey residents rank fifteenth in the nation for lottery expenditures, spending an average of $378 per thousand residents annually. This is higher than the national average of $284. The states total ticket sales income reached over $3.5 million in 2023, with a prize return rate of 63.6%. Despite this, Massachusetts residents spend more, averaging $858 per thousand, and Virginia has the highest prize return rate at 77%.

New Jerseys high school swimming scene is witnessing a surge of fresh talent, with standout freshmen and experienced club swimmers making significant impacts on their teams. Twenty individual swimmers have been highlighted for their impressive early-season performances, boosting team morale and pushing established athletes to excel. This blend of emerging and rediscovered talent is shaping an exciting and unpredictable season.

Newark, New Jersey, gears up for its annual Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights. The event, set for December 17th at 4 PM in front of City Hall, is a time for the community to unite and mark the eight-day holiday. Mayor Ras Baraka emphasizes the holidays message of resilience and hope, urging everyone to use the Festival of Lights as an opportunity to rededicate their lives to illuminating the world with love.

Thousands of New Jersey residents may need to switch healthcare providers as Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shields network loses two major hospitals, St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson and St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical Center. The hospitals cite insufficient reimbursement rates as the reason for leaving Horizons network. Nearly 100,000 patients could be affected, and they are advised to explore their insurance options to prevent disruptions in care.

Driver Arrested After Wrong-Way Crash on I-80, Trooper Escapes with Minor Injuries: Robert Felegi, 67, Charged with Assault by Auto and DUI

Big news for The White Lotus fans! Helena Bonham Carter is in talks for a starring role in season 4, set in France. Known for her versatile roles, she could bring a unique energy to the satirical drama. Production starts in 2026, following Emmy-nominated season 3.

Zaxbys, known for its Chicken Fingerz and Texas toast, opens its first New Jersey location, following a trend of national chicken chains entering the state. A reviewer, a fan of Zaxbys from Southern visits, tries the classic wings and things meal, finding the wings juicy but lacking crispiness, while the chicken fingers, fries, and Texas toast are praised for their crunch and flavor. The Kickin Chicken Sandwich and cheddar bites are also hits, but the vanilla milkshake and chocolate chip cookies disappoint. Despite minor misses and a reduced menu, Zaxbys is already a strong contender in New Jerseys competitive chicken chain market.

New Jersey lawmakers are tackling the states dangerous abandoned mines, which have recently caused sinkholes on Interstate eighty. A new bill, passed by the Assembly, aims to identify and fix these hidden hazards, protecting vital infrastructure and preventing future incidents. The bill tasks the state Department of Transportation with mapping and prioritizing the most threatening mines, with remediation work funded through grants or direct action. The initiative, sponsored by Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and Assembly Whip Clinton Calabrese, is a bipartisan effort to ensure public safety. Similar progress is being made in the State Senate. Earlier this year, three sinkholes caused significant disruptions, totaling approximately thirty million dollars in repair costs.