2025 Summer Edition of New Jersey Realtor® Magazine

How Does Tourism Impact NJ’s Economy?

All statistics are from the 2024 Economic Impact of Visitors to New Jersey report conducted by Tourism Economics and prepared for New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism.

123.7 million

IN 2024, 123.7 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED NEW JERSEY.

2024 VISITORS SPENT $50.6 BILLION ACROSS NEW JERSEY. $50.6 billion

3.1%

NEW JERSEY VISITOR SPENDING INCREASED 3.1% IN 2024 TO TOP $50 BILLION FOR THE FIRST TIME.

334,073

EMPLOYMENT

THE BROADER RANGE OF TOURISMRELATED EXPENDITURES REACHED

$53.2 BILLION IN 2024, WITH DOMESTIC TRAVELER SPENDING REPRESENTING THE MAJORITY AT $47.5 BILLION.

$47.5 billion

SUPPORTED BY VISITOR ACTIVITY INCREASED 1.5% IN 2024 TO 334,073 JOBS. WITH AN INCREASE OF MORE THAN 4,900 JOBS, EMPLOYMENT DIRECTLY SUPPORTED BY VISITORS WAS WITHIN 8,900 JOBS OF PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS IN 2024 (2.6% BELOW 2019 LEVELS).

$80.4 billion

VISITOR SPENDING GENERATED A TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF $80.4 BILLION IN NEW JERSEY.

VISITORS SPEND $8.22 BILLION ON TRANSPORT, AT 16.3% OF ALL SPENDING.

$26 billion

THIS TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT GENERATED $26 BILLION IN TOTAL LABOR INCOME.

VISITOR SPENDING IS FORECAST TO INCREASE 3.5% TO $52.3 BILLION IN 2025.

$52.3 billion

$5.4 billion

$14.19 billion

VISITORS SPENT $14.19 BILLION ON FOOD AND BEVERAGE, AT 28.1% OF ALL SPENDING.

$8.22 billion

$6.07 billion

VISITORS SPENT $6.07 BILLION ON RECREATION, AT 12% OF ALL SPENDING.

$13.45 billion

2.7% IN 2025, DAY VISITORS ARE FORECAST TO RISE 2.7%, AS OVERNIGHT VISITORS INCREASE 1.5%.

LODGING SPENDING,

$2.2 billion

CONSTRUCTION AND INVESTMENT IN SUPPORT OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN NEW JERSEY TOTALED $2.2 BILLION IN 2024, AN INCREASE OF 2.6% OVER THE PRIOR YEAR.

507,833

THIS TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT SUSTAINED 507,833 TOTAL JOBS.

2.7%

VISITORS TO NEW JERSEY GREW 2.7% YEAR-OVERYEAR TO 123.7 MILLION IN 2024, MORE THAN THREE MILLION HIGHER THAN THE PRIOR YEAR.

3%

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR TOURISM, WHICH INCLUDES THE BUDGETS FOR DESTINATION MARKETING AND OTHER BUDGET ITEMS IN BROAD SUPPORT OF TOURISM, INCREASED 2.2% IN 2024.

2.2%

IN 2026, WORLD CUP EVENTS ARE ANTICIPATED TO BOOST TRAVEL TO THE STATE, WITH VISITORS PROJECTED TO GROW 3%.

THIS TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT GENERATED $5.4 BILLION IN STATE AND LOCAL TAX REVENUES IN 2024.

$11.8 billion

VISITOR ECONOMY SPENDING, VISITORSUPPORTED JOBS, AND BUSINESS SALES GENERATED $11.8 BILLION IN GOVERNMENT REVENUES. STATE AND LOCAL TAXES ALONE TALLIED NEARLY $5.4 BILLION IN 2024.

$8.62 billion

6%

IN 2024, MOST COUNTIES EXPERIENCED GROWTH IN VISITOR SPENDING WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MIDDLESEX AND SALEM. NOTABLY, HUDSON COUNTY WITNESSED THE LARGEST YEAR-OVERYEAR INCREASE AT 6%, AS THE DEMAND FOR CITY TRAVEL WAS STRONG.

RETAIL SPENDING TALLIED $8.62 BILLION OF VISITOR SPENDING.

The Place To Sell More

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8 Picturesque Passaic County

Discover this northern New Jersey county most known for its innovation, deep-rooted heritage, and stunning natural landscapes.

13 Spotlight on Little Falls

This small community is home to Montclair State University, the Yogi Berra Museum, and is just 15 miles away from New York City.

14 Food Lover’s Guide to NJ

The food scene in New Jersey is full of so many vibrant cuisines. With Jersey Fresh ingredients and top notch chefs, there’s nothing quite like New Jersey food.

18 Lights, Camera, Garden State: What’s Next for Film in Jersey?

Relive some of your favorite films and television shows such as The Godfather, The Sopranos, Severance, and more.

20 Let’s Grab a Pint New Jersey breweries are popping up all over the state pouring up tart sours, hoppy ales, and everything in between.

24 NJ Arts Take Center Stage

Connect with clients in new ways and expand your horizons by visiting arts and culture spots found only in the Garden State.

27 Only In NJ

From diners serving up the classics to zoomorphic architecture to vast beaches at the Jersey Shore—there’s so much in our state you can only find here.

28 From Local Roots to Digital Reach: Meet the NJ Influencers Building Powerful Online Brands

We asked influencers their top tips for posting online as NJ-based creators to build brands and cultivate a niche audience.

3 Letter from the Editor

4 President’s View Selling New Jersey

5 From the CEO’s Desk Behind the Scenes of the “Mansion Tax”

6 Important Dates & Deadlines

30 Tech Column Made in Jersey: Five Inventions That Changed the World

32 Legislative Update Tour the New Jersey Statehouse

35 Meet the Decision Maker Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr.

36 Board/Association News

A Love Letter Garden State to the

What can we say about

Jersey that hasn’t already been said? We know the jokes, the stereotypes, and the gripes— we’ve probably made a few ourselves. New Jersey was built for real life and as unapologetic and often misunderstood we are, we know that this state delivers: in food, culture, education, workforce, lifestyle, and so much more. We don’t have to tell you this, you live it every day. And you’re an integral part of the machine that keeps New Jersey moving, working, and living. As Kathy says in her column, “You’re not selling a home, you’re selling a lifestyle.”

Inside this issue you’ll find many of the things that make the Garden State a great place for your clients to live and for you to work. We hope you’ll discover new things about our state that make us special, see some old favorites, and gather information to share with your clients.

You are the front lines of first impressions for our state and if you can communicate what makes New Jersey special, you can shape positive, lasting perceptions. We want to help you have the knowledge and experience you need to help your clients move in, but also feel like they have a space to belong. Other states may get the headlines, but New Jersey gets the job done. With world-class talent, top-tier infrastructure, and access to everything from global markets to small-town charm, it’s one of the best places to build both a life and a business. But you already know that

Selling New Jersey

I’m sure we all know our clients rarely focus on one single attribute when it comes to making the decision on where they’ll live. More often, they’re balancing dozens of wants and needs while trying to see how their life will look in this new place. You’re not selling a home, you’re selling a lifestyle—a new community, a different route to work, and a fresh space to make their own. As Realtors®, it’s our job to help our clients manage that balancing act and help them see the full picture.

That’s why we position ourselves as neighborhood experts so often—it’s hard to sell a home in a town you don’t understand and our local insight is one of our most valuable tools. The trust so many of us have worked to build with our clients comes from knowing and supporting the communities we serve.

So what does that look like? It means participating in the communities we live and work in by attending events, supporting small businesses, and understanding how the rhythm of a town can change from season to season. We then get to take that knowledge and package it up to help sell our clients on the best fit for their family and their lifestyle.

The market has only gotten more competitive and dynamic in the past several years and the one thing that

I’ve seen help agents and brokers stand apart is the human touch. We can use AI and technology to generate almost anything these days, but it can’t replicate what we offer our clients through our businesses.

We’re not just helping a client buy or sell a home, but find the right place for them in New Jersey, with the right Realtor® by their side.

PRESIDENT Kathy Morin

Behind the Scenes of the “Mansion Tax”

Over the past few weeks, you’ve probably seen the headlines putting the “mansion tax” back in the spotlight, but this time with a new name: the Graduated Percent Fee. But as is often the case in Trenton, what happened behind the scenes tells a much more complex story.

When the whispers of this tax increase first started circulating earlier this year, it raised immediate concerns for us. We fought relentlessly to blunt the impact the original proposal would have had. While the language used paints this as an affordable housing issue, we know that in so many parts of our state there are everyday sales of the New Jersey middle class that would trigger this tax.

It was bad policy when it was introduced as part of the budget process and it remains bad policy today, fully in effect. We oppose policies that add friction to homeownership and make it harder to buy or sell homes, period.

We launched a robust Call for Action—to members and consumers—with phone calls, emails, digital ads, social media, radio and TV ads, and more. Thousands of you and your clients took action with your legislators explaining the harm this proposal could cause.

Still, we understood the reality of what we were up against and while our members engaged in a months-long Call for Action, we held dozens of meetings with legislators, committee chairs, leadership, and administration. We shared data and anecdotal evidence. We emphasized the real-world implications of a tax like this.

We’re not done. Our government affairs team will continue to monitor how this policy is implemented, and we’ll be there to fight any future efforts to repeal it. We’ll also continue to push for real solutions that improve housing access and affordability without burdening the very people working hardest to make homeownership happen.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Douglas Tomson

Important Dates & Deadlines

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Douglas M. Tomson, RCE

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING

Colleen King Oliver | editor@njrealtor.com

DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING

Erin McFeeters

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Lauren Melville

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Julia Ventrone

2025 OFFICERS

PRESIDENT Kathy Morin

PRESIDENT-ELECT Gloria Siciliano

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Judy Moriarty

TREASURER Jairo Rodriguez

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Gloria Monks

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laura@njrealtormag.com

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New Jersey Realtors® provides legal and legislative updates as well as information on a variety of real estate related topics solely for the use of its members. Due to the wide range of issues affecting its members, NJ Realtors® publishes information concerning those issues that NJ Realtors®, in its sole discretion, deems the most important for its members.

The content and accuracy of all articles and/or advertisements by persons not employed by or agents of NJ Realtor® are the sole responsibility of their author. NJ Realtors® disclaims any liability or responsibility for their content or accuracy. Where such articles and/or advertisements contain legal advice or standards, NJ Realtors® recommends that NJ Realtors® seek legal counsel with regard to any specific situation to which they may seek to apply the article.

New Jersey Realtor®, publication number 13260, ISSN number 00285919. Published bi-monthly each year. Member subscriptions allocated annually from annual dues: $3. Non-member annual subscription: $10. Known office of publication: 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton,

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FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

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Contact Emerlee Simons @ ESimons@njhmfa.gov to learn more about this opportunity for homeownership.

Picturesque Passaic County

BY ERIN McFEETERS

Bordering New York in North Jersey, Passaic County is instantly recognizable by its hourglass shape—and even more so by its rich legacy of innovation, deep-rooted heritage, and stunning natural landscapes.

Vibrant downtown communities like Little Falls and West Milford characterize Passaic County, while state and national parks provide exploration opportunities for residents and visitors.

Historical sites like Dey Mansion, where our founding fathers started it all, and the Paterson Great Falls embody the seeds that helped grow the Garden State we all know and love.

“Passaic County is a place where history, natural beauty, and vibrant communities come together,” said Passaic County Commissioner Orlando Cruz. “You’ll find everything from the awe-inspiring Great Falls National Park in Paterson to quiet wooded trails in the Highlands Preserve in West Milford. It’s a county that balances centuries of legacy with modern-day energy, where George Washington once stayed at the Dey Mansion in Wayne, and where you can now catch a game or concert at the newly restored Hinchliffe Stadium.”

The City of Paterson, a prominent location within the county, was built as a manufacturing hub in the 1790s to utilize the power of the Great Falls, according to the National Park Service. Manufacturing companies built brick mills along the canals and utilized the Great Falls to generate energy for the production of cotton textiles, steam locomotives, aircraft engines, and more. Today, the Paterson Great Falls is one of the only National Parks in the Garden State.

“Passaic County is home to the Great Falls in Paterson, one of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. by volume and a cornerstone of America’s early industrial development,” said Cruz. “The falls and surrounding area are now protected as a National Historical Park, celebrating the county’s role in powering the nation’s growth.”

Passaic County is named after the 80-mile Passaic River, which runs through northeast New Jersey and covers 935 square miles, according to Montclair State University’s New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology. The Industrial Revolution gave Passaic County the nickname Silk City due to its prominent role in the textile industry, but beyond textiles, Passaic County also played a role in the

PASSAIC COUNTY

locomotive, paper, and firearm industries. It was even in the Passaic River that the first modern submarine, invented by John Philip Holland, was launched in the late 1800s, according to nj.gov.

Other historic attractions are also in the Silk City, such as Dey Mansion, George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War; Lambert Castle, a 19th century mansion on Garret Mountain; and Long Pond Ironworks, which supplied goods to the Continental Army.

If your clients are architecture buffs, they’ll enjoy visiting the many Dutch-style buildings, such as the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House, one of the oldest buildings in Passaic County and the original home of Gilbert Vanderhoef, the owner and operator of a flour and gristmill. The Van Riper-Hopper House, a traditional Dutch Colonial home built using native fieldstone, now the Wayne Museum—open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday.

For those looking for something to do with the whole family during the summer season, join Passaic County at their annual Passaic County Fair on Aug. 14-17 at the Garret Mountain Reservation. Attendees will enjoy the crazy days of summer with rides, fireworks, games, a beer garden, and more.

According to the U.S. Census, 524,118 residents call this county home, with 185,367 total housing

units. While the overall New Jersey median household income is $99,781, the median household income in Passaic County is over $10,000 less at $82,825.

According to the latest housing market data reports from New Jersey Realtors®, the Passaic County single family median sales price surpasses the overall state median at $580,000, a 9.4% increase year-to-date. Homes also continue to receive over asking at 104.7%, almost the same as this time last year, but are selling three days faster. Demand for townhousecondos and adult community homes has decreased significantly, with units in both segments staying on the market for more than 91% more days year-to-date.

Looking ahead, Passaic County has redevelopment plans to attract more residents and small businesses. “Several projects are underway to enhance our communities. Paterson continues to see investment around the Great Falls and Hinchliffe Stadium area, including new housing and commercial spaces designed to bring even more foot traffic to local businesses,” said Cruz.

“In Clifton and Passaic, transitoriented development is underway to better connect neighborhoods to job centers, with Passaic County MOVE. And across the county, parks and recreational facilities are being improved to serve residents of all ages, from enhanced trail systems to new playgrounds and athletic fields.”

Overlook — Courtesy of Passaic County

Downtowns to Explore

Passaic County’s downtowns are full of unique businesses and attractions, diverse restaurants, historical sites and so much more. Beat the heat with Clifton’s splash pads at Weasel Brook Park, see the latest film at Hawthorne Theatre, visit the iconic Great Falls in Paterson, and attend festivals this fall in West Milford.

“What makes Passaic County truly special is the diversity of our downtowns. From bustling city centers with global cuisines and vibrant street life to small-town main streets with boutique shops and cozy cafés, there’s something for everyone,” said Cruz. “You can explore the historic charm of one downtown in the morning and enjoy an entirely different cultural experience just a few miles away in the afternoon. It’s that rich mix of neighborhoods, cultures, and experiences that gives Passaic County its heart.”

Clifton

There are almost 250 businesses to explore in Downtown Clifton. Visit the Clifton Arts & Sculpture Park, bring your children to the splash pad at Weasel Brook Park, and have a delicious meal at The Barrow House.

Hawthorne

Plentiful businesses line the streets in the Borough of Hawthorne. Catch a movie at Hawthorne Theatre, grab a bite to eat at Tim’s Po-Boys and Wings, or take the family out for pizza at Villa Rosa.

Paterson

For a window into Passaic County’s past, explore downtown Paterson’s historic sites. Great Falls Hydroelectric Station, built into a cliffside next to the falls; Hinchliffe Stadium, first constructed in 1931, the stadium is one of the few remaining Negro League stadiums in the world, and today it hosts regional sports teams, school activities, and performances; and Little Dublin, the neighborhood around the Great Falls where many Irish workers planted roots after immigrating in 1820.

West Milford

This semi-rural community with mountainous terrain and more than 40 lakes, according to the West Milford Chamber of Commerce, is full of natural beauty. Attend their annual Autumn Lights Festival, swim in the Bubbling Springs, or enjoy the many trails in its numerous parks.

Images Courtesy of Passaic County

Great Falls National Park, Paterson

Weasel Brook Park, Clifton

National & State Parks

Passaic County can help you check some of New Jersey’s top state parks off your list. From jaw-dropping views of the mountainside to casual strolls through botanical gardens, take advantage of all the Garden State has to offer.

“Passaic County offers an incredible variety of outdoor experiences, from scenic hiking trails to waterfront parks,” said Cruz. “These parks aren’t just beautiful, they’re active hubs for year-round events hosted by the County, including Art in the Park, the Passaic County Book Festival, historical reenactments like Washington’s Encampment at the Dey Mansion, the County Fair, and a full calendar of community wellness, cultural, and recreational programming, all open to residents and visitors alike.”

Long Pond Ironworks State Park

What was once an ironworks plantation supplying armaments and goods for the Continental Army is now a museum with walking paths and hiking trails in the area surrounding the remaining historic structures.

New Jersey Botanical Garden

Located in Ringwood and part of the Ringwood State Park, the New Jersey Botanical Garden is on both the state and National Register of Historic Places. Francis Lynde Stetson originally owned the property and entertained his friends Grover Cleveland, Andrew Carnegie, and more. The property changed hands several times and was once the campus of Shelton College until New Jersey purchased the land. Former Gov. Thomas Kean then designated the 96 acres as the official botanical garden of New Jersey.

Norvin Green State Forest

A sanctuary for birds and other wildlife, Norvin Green State Forest is an undisturbed forest with hills ranging in elevation from 400 to 1,300 feet. The property is only accessible by foot and boasts scenic views of the New York Skyline, Burnt Meadow Brook, and Lake Sonoma.

Ringwood State Park

There’s so much to enjoy at the Ringwood State Park. Beyond the New Jersey Botanical Garden, visitors can hike its trails, tour historic buildings such as Ringwood Manor and Skylands Manor, fish along Ringwood Brook, kayak Shepard Lake, and more.

Wawayanda State Park

Made up of more than 60 miles of trails, along with a 19-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail, Wawayanda State Park has something for everyone. Avid hikers will love the steep mountains with top-notch views of Lake Wawayanda, while families will enjoy the playground and campsites.

Wawayanda State Park

Ringwood State Park

Frozen Delights

There’s something to be said about an ice cream cone on a hot day. Try these places for treats like ice cream sandwiches, waffle cones, and more.

Cups Frozen Yogurt

Clifton

Cups isn’t your typical frozen yogurt spot from the early 2010s. In addition to its self-service frozen yogurt machine with a DIY topping bar, Cups also serves homemade ice cream and build-your-own ice cream sandwiches, with freshly baked cookies to pair with one of their 18 rotating flavors.

Falls Creamery

Little Falls

Located in the center of historic Little Falls, pop in for a cone with one of their one-of-a-kind flavors to celebrate the summer season. Try Flying Fishing Fudge, M&M’s, cookie dough, and chocolate chunks in vanilla ice cream; Southern Peach, diced peaches in peach ice cream; or Peanut Butter Pie, peanut butter ice cream with graham cracker and chopped peanut butter cups.

Gelotti Ice Cream Paterson

Since 1984, Gelotti Ice Cream has been serving up ice cream, gelato, Italian ice, and yogurt with a large selection of flavors such as Banana Cookies & Cream, Apple Pie, Maple Walnut, Cannoli, Amaretto, Pistacchio, and more.

“It’s more than just an ice cream shop, it’s a tradition,” said Cruz. “My favorite ice cream is a banana split! Whether it’s after a community event or just a summer evening, Gelotti is a part of the rhythm of life in Paterson.”

Goffle Creamery

Hawthorne

From ice cream nachos to ice cream sandwiches to the viral Dubai chocolate bars, everyone in your family will find a new favorite at Goffle’s.

Guernsey Crest

Paterson

Scooping up cones since 1927, Guernsey Crest visitors will have a taste of nostalgia in this momand-pop business. They serve classic flavors like butter pecan and rainbow sherbert, and more unique concoctions like pistachiocashew and banana pudding.

Luv Yogurt Haledon

A family-owned frozen yogurt shop serving up more than just froyo. Try their crepes, coffee froyo shakes, and more.

Randy’s Pompton Lakes

Made one small batch at a time, Randy’s handcrafted flavors are made fresh from cows in the U.S., and they ensure each flavor profile is unmatched. Try their Cookie Monster, Raspberry Dark Truffle, or Chocolate Craving and walk around downtown Pompton Lakes.

Scan the QR code below for NJ Realtors® guide to NJ ice cream.

Town Spotlight Spotlight on Little Falls

With a history dating back to 1711, Little Falls is a small community with rich ties to Passaic County’s industrial roots. The town was even named after the waterfall that once streamed down from the dam in front of the Beattie Carpet Mill and powered the town’s industries.

Before the Industrial Revolution, farming and brownstone quarrying were prevalent industries in Little Falls. One of the oldest homes in New Jersey, the Speer Homestead, was built in 1680 and still stands, according to the Little Falls Historical Society, and New York City’s famous Trinity Church utilized Little Falls’ brownstone. Much has changed since then, but buildings from the Beattie era remain and have since been converted into apartments and condos overlooking the Passaic River, according to the Little Falls Historical Society. Complete with a four-acre woodland preserve, walking paths, and more for residents to enjoy.

The second-largest state university, Montclair State University, is also in Little Falls. While the majority of the campus is in downtown Montclair, the

252-acre campus also extends to Little Falls, Clifton, and Bloomfield. Currently, there are 23,546 students enrolled at the university, covering over 300 majors, minors, concentrations, and certificate programs.

On the Little Falls portion of campus are the Yogi Berra Museum and Yogi Berra Stadium, named after Yankees baseball catcher Lawrence Peter “Yogi” Berra. The museum has exhibits about the Hall of Fame inductee’s baseball

career, the history of Negro Leagues baseball, a display of vintage catcher’s mitts, and more.

For commuters and travel lovers, Little Falls is just 15 miles away from New York City and 12 miles from the Newark Liberty International Airport. Single family median sales prices are higher than the state average at $634,000, a 20.8% increase year-to-date and demand remains high with the average percent of list price received coming in at 108.9% year-to-date.

Speer House Images

Courtesy of Little Falls Historical Society

Browertown

Beattie Mill

The Food Lover’s Guide to Jersey

BY DINA CHENEY

Acclaimed New Jersey chef, Robbie Felice, spent years cooking around the world. But he couldn’t shake a craving for the breakfast sandwiches he’d grown up eating during his childhood here. It was those sandwiches (plus a longing to live near friends and family) that led him to return when he opened his restaurants: Viaggio (Wayne), Osteria Crescendo and Bar Mutz (Westwood), and PastaRamen (Montclair).

Felice is not alone. Several noteworthy chefs trained far afield have set up shop in the state, drawn by its comfort food, high-quality seafood and produce, diverse restaurants, and chef community. Read on to discover their favorites.

PRIME INGREDIENTS

“There’s a reason why New Jersey is called ‘The Garden State,’” said Ryan DePersio, who moved back to his home state to open Fascino (Montclair), Battello and The Kitchen Step (Jersey City), and NICO Kitchen + Bar (Newark).

New Jersey farmers grow more than 100 different types of crops, including tomatoes, sweet corn, eggplant, spinach, bell peppers, asparagus, cucumbers, blueberries, peaches, and cranberries, according to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.

celebrated in the town of Hammonton’s annual Red, White and Blueberry Festival. To taste the freshest local blueberries, Jersey tomatoes, and more, order home delivery from Windsor-based Harvest Drop, which sources goods from about ruby-red tomatoes, sweet corn that pops with summer,” he said. “Think heirloom vegetable tartare or blueberry-studded desserts that taste

Thanks to New Jersey’s vicinity to New York any ingredients,” points out David Burke, includes Orchard Park (East Brunswick Cubano (West New York), and Ventanas at

HOMEY CLASSICS

Humble fare like breakfast sandwiches just might be the soul of New Jersey cuisine, whether served up at pizzerias, bagel shops, delis, boardwalk food stands, or diners. These are not nutritional recommendations—just delicious ones.

BREAKFAST SANDWICH

Called a “Taylor Ham, Egg and Cheese” in North Jersey and “Pork Roll” in the southern part of the state, these sandwiches feature egg and cheese (and often bacon or ham) on a bagel or hard roll. “I always tell friends from out of town to get one, said Felice, who orders his on an everything bagel with “SPK” (salt, pepper, and ketchup). “Any random bagel shop” will have a good one, said Felice.

PIZZA

“It’s a constant battle who has better pizza: New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut,” said Felice, who tries a new pizzeria each week (his favorites include Casano’s Pizza Parlor in Rutherford, Rasco’s in Edgewater, and Kinchley’s Tavern in Ramsey). The state offers different pie styles, including Sicilian, Neapolitan, Trenton Tomato Pie (thin-crust with the sauce on top), and Tavern-style (crunchy, with a thin crust). DePersio’s favorite? Song E Napule in East Rutherford.

Bucco recommends Razza (Jersey City), which he calls the “gold standard” and a “masterclass in ingredient sourcing, fermentation, and simplicity.”

BOARDWALK SAUSAGE AND PEPPERS

For DePersio, a sausage and pepper sandwich on the boardwalk is a “fun” annual shore tradition. Italian American in origin, this “walking food,” as he describes it, features sausages and peppers cooked on a flat-top grill and served on a crispy roll, sometimes with marinara sauce. “It’s the perfect balance: earthy meat, peppers and onions with their natural sugars, chewy Italian bread. You have to decide if you want it with or without peppers and onions,” said DePersio. (Actually, there’s no decision, stresses DePersio. You have to get it with.)

STAR CHEFS

New Jersey cooks might excel at down-to-earth classics. But “we’re not just boardwalk food and saltwater taffy,” emphasizes Felice. New Jersey has been home to standout chefs for years, like Foy (whom Burke describes as the state’s first celebrity chef) and Craig Shelton. Famed for his farm-to-table cuisine, Shelton originally helmed the kitchen at The Ryland Inn (he’s now at Shelton Hospitality Group and Mountainville Manor). In the last few years, more culinary luminaries have flocked to the state. Just take Montclair, home to Faubourg, a French brasserie from two Daniel Boulud restaurant alums; and the forthcoming MM by Morimoto, from “Iron Chef” Masaharu Morimoto. Meanwhile, in Old Bridge, David Viana of Heirloom Kitchen has garnered serious acclaim. Register for one of his cooking classes to learn some of his secrets.

CHEFS’ DREAM JERSEY MEALS

Wondering what DePersio, Burke, and Foy would include in an ultimate New Jersey dinner? Here are their ideal menus:

DEPERSIO would visit Verana (Norwood), “his favorite restaurant of all time.”

He’d begin with polpo alla Luciana (braised octopus with olives, capers, potatoes, and tomato) or carpaccio di tonno (thinly pounded bluefin tuna with tomato confit, almond, pickled shallot, mint, and chile oil). Then he’d order bucatini con vongole Calabrese (pasta with Manilla clams, guanciale, tomato confit, and bottarga breadcrumbs) or tagliatelle al tartufo (pasta with black truffles) and tagliata di Manzo (Snake River Farms Wagyu flat iron steak with Robuchon potatoes). He’d finish with pollo alla Parmigiana, featuring aged mozzarella and tomatoes.

BURKE would start with lobster dumplings or lobster Cobb salad (with lobster from Lusty Lobster) or raw oysters (from Barnegat Oyster Collective). Then he’d opt for pasta (from the Semolina Pasta Shoppe) with ham and wild mushrooms (from Two River Farm). Next, he’d order a duo of bison filet mignon and short ribs (from Fossil Farms) with a sauce featuring Laird & Co. applejack. Dessert would be a pie with seasonal fruit, like blueberries and peaches, drizzled with honey from his backyard.

FOY would start with slow-roasted Cape May soft shell crabs with chive butter, followed by Long Beach Island scallops with cauliflower puree. Dessert would be white peaches (from Von Thun’s Country Farm Market) with cream.

WHAT’S THE LATEST WITH RESTAURANT REAL ESTATE?

When it comes to commercial real estate, it’s now a buyer’s market, said Jennifer Bono, licensed real estate agent, Delaney Restaurant Realty, and blogger. Despite high inventory, sellers should be able to sell, so long as they’re realistic about pricing, she said.

Since food costs have doubled since the pandemic and consumer spending is down, restauranteurs should “keep it simple,” said Bono. “A lot of people think they should go in 100% with $70 steaks and $16-$19 cocktails. But that goes opposite of the trends we’re seeing. The people who will make a lot of money in the next year or two will open a casual bar and grill or neighborhood spot.”

Unfortunately, liquor license laws continue to plague restauranteurs. Currently, liquor licenses can range in price from as little as $25,000 to as much as $1-$2 million, said Bono. In July 2024, Gov. Murphy passed a law intended to ease the transfer of pocket (inactive) licenses. But Bono doesn’t expect many transfers to occur until 2027. “This will take a few years to regulate itself,” said Bono.

A TASTE OF NEW JERSEY HISTORY

The third state is home to many restaurants steeped in history. Here’s a sampling:

• During the Revolutionary War, General George Washington and his troops are believed to have eaten at the Stage House Tavern (Scotch Plains), established in 1737.

• The Black Horse Tavern & Pub (Mendham), from 1742, is believed to be New Jersey’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.

• The Cranbury Inn (Cranbury), founded in the mid-1700s, has hosted noteworthy guests, like Albert Einstein and Brooke Shields.

• Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern (Ho-Ho-Kus), built as a home in the late 18th century, earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its wine list.

• Set in an early 20th century Tudor-style mansion, Ninety Acres (Peapack) is a fine dining restaurant and cooking school focused on seasonal cuisine.

Despite being on the opposite coast from the capital of film, New Jersey has plenty of filming locations that have made their mark. From award-winning television to popular cult classics, you can visit and relive some of your favorite scenes at these stops. The Garden State has claimed the coveted title as the birthplace of film, with some of the first production studios established in Fort Lee, right across the Hudson River from Manhattan.

So, if you are a film buff or a TV connoisseur, check out some of the most recognizable filming locations right here in NJ.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, GARDEN STATE:

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FILM IN JERSEY?

BY JULIA VENTRONE

MOVIE LOCATIONS IN NEW JERSEY

The Godfather: Part III (1990)

The Golden Nugget, Atlantic City Formerly known as Trump Marina, this hotel was the set for the planned fictional massacre against Don Corleone in the trilogy finale.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Military Park Station, Newark

Light Rail, Paterson

Back in 2011, this train station was used as part of Gotham City for a Batman and Catwoman fight sequence.

West Side Story (2020)

Ellison Street & Veterans Place, Paterson

For all the musical theatre fans out there, you can visit the streets of Paterson, where Steven Spielberg shot his remake of the classic “West Side Story” on Ellison Street and Veterans Place, including scenes using a redesigned William Paterson University building, according to The Patch.

Friday the 13th (1980)

Camp NoBeBoSco (AKA Camp Crystal Lake), Hardwick

Reenact your favorite scenes from the

cult classic with Crystal Lake Tours, taking you to Camp NoBeBoSco in Hardwick.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

Ramapo Lake, Oakland

Visit Ramapo Lake, where they shot the earlier wilderness scenes in the sequel to “The Hunger Games” franchise. This is where Katniss Everdeen reckons with the trauma she faced in the games during the opening scene.

Annie (1982)

The Great Hall at Shadow Lawn, Monmouth University

In the 1982 version of “Annie,” the Great Hall at Shadow Lawn was the set for Daddy Warbucks’ mansion. Today, the university uses it for admission offices, study spaces, and even a chapel, according to Monmouth University. You can visit it for scene refreshers, including the grand finale scene at the fountain.

Oppenheimer (2023)

Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton

During the filming of the 2024 Best

Atlantic City

Paterson

Princeton

Holmdel

Picture winner “Oppenheimer,” director Christopher Nolan used the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton for critical scenes. During the 1950s, J. Robert Oppenheimer served as director of the Institute, making the set historically accurate for the scenes shot there. The conversation between Oppenheimer and Albert Einstein by the pond on the grounds took place at a spot that was built during Oppenheimer’s directorship, according to the Institute for Advanced Study.

A Beautiful Mind (2001)

Princeton University, Princeton

“Oppenheimer” wasn’t the only Best Picture winner to be filmed in Princeton. “A Beautiful Mind” tells the story of mathematician John Nash and his days at Princeton University. The film was primarily shot at Rockefeller College and Holder Hall, according to visitprinceton.org.

TV LOCATIONS IN NEW JERSEY

Severance (2022)

Bell Works, Holmdel

Shot in Holmdel, the Apple TV+ hit show used Bell Works as the backdrop for the fictional corporation, Lumon Industries.

With plain white hallways you could get lost in and contemporary architecture to admire, it was the perfect place for this eerie drama.

In April this year, Bell Works was transformed into the set of “Severance” for a surprise pop-up event, including a panel moderated by Stephen Colbert, with director Ben Stiller, cast members Adam Scott and Britt Lower, and others.

Jersey Shore (2009)

Seaside Heights

Whether you love it or hate it, let’s be honest, you can’t look away.

“The Jersey Shore” put Seaside Heights on the map and the iconic house remains. If you’re looking for a night away, did you know the house with the infamous duck phone is even available for rentals?

The Sopranos (1999) North Caldwell & Bloomfield

The iconic Soprano household is located in North Caldwell,

according to Frommer’s. Although it is privately owned, you can drive through the area and visit other locations, such as Holsten’s Ice Cream in Bloomfield, where some of the final scenes of the series were filmed.

Ms. Marvel (2022)

Jersey City

Kamala Khan, who also goes by Ms. Marvel, has strong ties to her hometown of Jersey City. The limited series showcases many spots in Jersey City including Journal Square, Liberty State Park, the waterfront, and more, according to NorthJersey.com.

Boardwalk Empire (2010)

Atlantic City

“Boardwalk Empire” follows the story of Nucky Thompson during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. According to Giggster, during the pilot episode, there’s a scene filmed at the Knife & Fork Inn, a real Atlantic City restaurant that opened its doors in 1912, but even today you can still grab a bite to eat and see the Prohibition-era-inspired artwork.

NETFLIX IN NEW JERSEY

Although still in the early stages of development, with so many creatives living in nearby cities like Philadelphia and New York City, it’s no wonder Netflix decided to open a studio right in the center of New Jersey.

Located in Fort Monmouth, about ten minutes from the closest beach and roughly an hour and a half from both Philadelphia and New York City, this former Army installation will be transformed into a film lot with 12 sound stages and additional production support, according to netflixnewjersey.com.

Netflix is already giving back to the community that’s welcoming them by supporting nonprofits like Fulfill FoodBank, Soldier On, and JBJ Soul Kitchen.

Local businesses are also excited about the development and hope it will attract new faces to the area.

“Naturally, people have questions about logistics, timelines, and how the township will manage growth, but there’s a real sense of excitement. I’ve had several conversations with other business owners, and most are actively thinking about how to position themselves to take advantage of the increased traffic, visibility, and economic activity this will bring,” said Scott Marchakitus, CEO of The Fort Athletic Club.

Marchakitus sees the project as an amazing opportunity not only for businesses but for the town as a whole.

“This project has the potential to serve as a major economic catalyst for the area. It will bring new jobs, housing demand, and new businesses to the region. The influx of professionals and families can create positive momentum for schools, restaurants, shops, and our fitness club! Overall, we believe this is a once-in-ageneration opportunity that can elevate the entire region if executed properly,” said Marchakitus.

He even sees potential for new fitness programs tailored to the creative professionals the studio is expected to draw.

The Garden State’s connection to the film and television industry is strong, and this new Netflix studio promises to solidify New Jersey’s role as a major East Coast production hub, bringing jobs, investment, and fresh creative energy to the region.

Move over, Hollywood, there’s a new player in town!

Jersey City

Seaside Heights

Let’s Grab a Pint

BY ERIN McFEETERS

If you’re a hoppy beverage lover from out of state, you might be taken aback when you visit a Garden State brewery. Before Gov. Murphy made changes to liquor laws in the state in 2024, you’d walk into a brewery greeted by the owners insisting on taking a tour of the facility, no food in sight, limited televisions, and very little advertising for in-house events even though it’s clear upon arriving you’re missing out on an epic weekly trivia.

As the craft beer industry began to grow at a rapid pace over the past decade, brewery owners not only disliked the regulations in place, but state mandates made it more challenging to expand their businesses. Fast forward to 2024, where regulatory changes allowed breweries to offer snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, collaborate with vendors like food trucks, host unlimited events on-site, and participate in more third-party events and festivals. And the best part? They could finally make more beer—a lot more beer. The barrel limit went from 10,000 to 300,000, with the ability to sell more product to retailers.

“We had a division among our breweries years ago, largely due to the harsh and unfriendly rules imposed against our breweries and different approaches to modernize these laws and regulations,” said Scott Wells, Bolero Snort Brewery Director of Sales. “But along with the landmark legislation we got passed last year, we also merged our organizations back to a single State Brewers Guild. We regularly work together, sharing information and ideas, and very often helping each other out in many different ways. The state has been tough on breweries so we’ve created a network to help each other out.”

If you have pint-loving clients moving from out of state, there are still laws in place in New Jersey they should be aware of to make the most of their time at local breweries. All breweries are different—some have bags of pretzels to purchase, others have food trucks every weekend, and some keep a stash of local delivery menus. Please be courteous and visit the brewery’s website before you place your Jersey Mike’s order for your whole crew.

For your commercial clients on the hunt for space to start brewing their concoctions, you can find many breweries in spaces initially zoned only for industrial use. For breweries hoping to get their brews on the liquor store shelves, like Jeff

Source Farmhouse Brewery

Greco, the owner and brewer of Heavy Reel Brewing Co., they specifically need enough square footage to run production for distribution.

“We spent years seeking a location out while we were a gypsy brewer (Contract Brand). NJ regs made it tough, and they weren’t nearly as bad at the time. We wanted to stay in Bergen County but needed a place with enough size to grow into,” said Wells. “We were among the state’s largest brewers before we had a physical location, so finding enough industrial space, within a reasonable price point, with good distribution road access and a local community was tough to put together. We found a great space in Carlstadt and found a very welcoming local government that has been invaluable to us as a business.”

If we were to feature every brewery in New Jersey, close to 150 to date, it would be quite a long list. For now, here are 18 top brewery picks, in alphabetical order, from those visited and those discovered at the local liquor store. Cheers!

1. BOLERO SNORT BREWERY–CARLSTADT

One of the original 16 craft breweries in the state, Bolero Snort Brewery’s 16,000-square-foot production brewery is right in the Meadowlands. They’re known for brews with cow-related play on word names and hoppy concoctions with a nod to Jersey.

Brews to Try: Juicy Pebbulls, a New England IPA with notes of lime and tropical fruit punch; Jersey Vice Fruited Sour with a tart taste of raspberry and lime; and Magically Bullicious, a White Stout made with your favorite lucky marshmallow cereal, oats, and milk.

Wells’ favorites are Moountie, a smoked brown ale with maple and coffee; Jersey Vice, a light session sour with raspberry and lime, that has won several major national awards; and Bolero Park, a double IPA that features Wells’ son’s art on the can this year.

2. BONESAW BREWING COMPANY–GLASSBORO

The first round of Jersey brewery law changes in 2012 pushed this family of brewmasters to open up Bonesaw for business. Their Glassboro production brewery was the first brewery developed

from the ground up in South Jersey, so you can say they’re seasoned pros on the NJ beer scene.

Brews to Try: Purple Hearts, Pomegranate Brulee Sour brewed with oats, vanilla, and pomegranate puree; and Queensicle, Orange Vanilla Cream Ale loaded with orange zest and vanilla.

3. BRADLEY BREW PROJECT–BRADLEY BEACH

Husband and wife duo Chelsey and Mike opened their microbrewery in the heart of the Jersey Shore in Bradley Beach and specialize in a mix of ales and lagers. Their flagship hazy pale ale, Unicorn Girls, is brewed as an ode to the owners’ twin daughters, brewed with malted grain, hops, yeast, and milk sugar. When the weather is nice, the owners open the garage doors so the sea breeze streams right in—what could be better?

Brews to Try: We Playing, like an Arnold Palmer, but it’s a sour ale brewed with lemon peels and black tea; Jersey, a crisp lager with subtle notes of citrus; and Bradley Summer, a summer ale with honey, Vienna, and wheat malt.

4. CAPE MAY BREWING COMPANY–RIO GRANDE

Located right near the Cape May Airport and home to The Bog, a shandy jam-packed with cranberry goodness, the Cape May Brewery dropped their first keg of Cape May IPA in 2011 and have been pouring up wild pints ever since.

Brews to Try: Dirty Shirley Shandy, a seasonal brewery exclusive whose name says it all; The Grove, like The Bog but bright and full citrus; and for the IPA folks, Crushin’ It, seasonal varieties are always making it onto the tap menu and hoppy lovers will keep coming back for more.

5. DEPARTED SOLES BREWERY–JERSEY CITY

Since they opened shop in 2015, they’ve brewed almost 100 different beers—some are even gluten-free. They were the first brewery in Jersey City and continue to serve up ales with great names and even better can art.

Brews to Try: The Struggle Bus is Full, sour ale with cherries, raspberries, and oranges; Philoso-Rapper is a Belgian Tripel is a hybrid between a Belgian Tripel

Courtesy of Bolero Snort Brewery

Bonesaw Brewing Company

Bradley Brew Project

Cape May Brewing Company

and a Belgian Blonde and Departed Soles’ top-rated brew on Untappd; and Central Jersey Doesn’t Exist, a dark NJ lager collab with Two Ton Brewing.

6. DOUBLE NICKEL BREWING CO.–PENNSAUKEN

Opening in 2015, Double Nickel Brewing Company is in a massive warehouse in Pennsauken. If you arrive when they open at noon on weekends, you’ll get a seat, but any later, good luck. Hang out here with a bag of popcorn in one hand and a tart sour in the other.

Brews to Try: Death of a Pool Noodle, brewed with strawberries, pineapple, lime, and coconut for a tart and delicious sip; Saint Nickel’s Pickle, a nod to the pickle ornament Christmas tradition, brewed with sea salt, coriander, dill, and pickling spices; Weekend Warrior Hazy Pale Ale, hazy brew with notes of pineapple, apricot, and citrus.

7. ECLIPSE BREWING CO.–MERCHANTVILLE

This Merchantville essential small business opened in 2016 in the former EMS headquarters, a small Cape Cod house. Their menu features 17 rotating taps, with everything from dark stouts to fruity sips. Bring a snack and enjoy what they’re brewing in their outdoor area.

Brews to Try: Coffee Cream Ale, caffeine fanatics will love this beer that smells and tastes like coffee; Raz Hi Honey, made with honey and raspberry puree; and Wit, a wheat beer with coriander and bitter orange peel.

8. FLOUNDER BREWING CO.–HILLSBOROUGH

Family-owned in a 250-year-old refurbished barn, Flounder Brewing focuses on crafted brews and hospitality. Before you visit, check out their calendar for live music nights, food and brew tastings, and open mic nights.

Brews to Try: Scarlet Red, toasty red ale; Still Crosswind, cucumber conditioned cream ale; and Smooth Cranberry Crush, cranberry hard seltzer slushy with a hint of vanilla.

9. HEAVY REEL BREWING CO.–SEASIDE HEIGHTS

This seaside delight of a brewery started in 2018 with a 2.5-barrel system but has since opened a larger production space to brew even more beer. Sour lovers beware, you’re going to be obsessed with their Luvv line of brews.

Brews to Try: Luvv: Orange Creamsicle, one of the best sours on the market; Island Beach Lager, an American Adjunct; and 39N 74W, a stout brewed with oysters from Barnegat Oyster Collective.

Greco’s pick is Das Pils, a crisp pilsner with hints of jasmine and honeysuckle.

10. LAST WAVE BREWING CO.–POINT PLEASANT BEACH

Beer made in the heart of the Jersey Shore, Last Wave serves up hazy, refreshing, and sour ales to enjoy on-site and they’re canning it up to bring it to a liquor store near you. Throwback: Does anyone remember when NJ Realtors® held virtual beer tastings with Last Wave back in 2020?

Brews to Try: Boardwalk Shandy, a collab with Jenkinson’s Boardwalk with lemonade flavor; PB&J, a sour ale with pops of strawberry jam and peanut butter; The Crumbler, a golden ale brewed with cinnamon and vanilla and brewed in collab with Mueller’s Bakery with notes of their famous crumb-cake.

11. NEW JERSEY BEER COMPANY–NORTH BERGEN

Always cultivating a unique new brew, New Jersey Beer Co. opened 15 years ago and has since expanded to serve in bars and canned for liquor store shelves. Try their dessert sour series beers, which are brewed with lactose to give them a creamy feel.

Brews to Try: Blood Orange LBIPA, an ode to Old Barney, a traditional IPA loaded with blood orange; Sour Gummy Wormz, like a kid in a candy store with their imperial sour with cherry, lime, lemon, and strawberry; and Peach Parfait Sour, a dessert sour breed with sweet granola, lactose, and peaches.

Double Nickel Brewing Company

Eclipse Brewing Company

Flounder Brewing Company

Heavy Reel Brewing Company

12. OLD HIGHTS BREWING COMPANY–HIGHTSTOWN

Their taproom is located right in the historic borough of Hightstown, and their staff will quickly feel like you’ve known them forever. Sit outside with your pup, and they’ll bring you a water bowl.

Brews to Try: Cherry Berry Fizzle, a sour ale with dark sweet cherries and raspberries; Porch Tour, an easy-drinking cream ale; and Skydiver, a dark lager with a hint of honey-roasted sweetness and a coffee flavor.

13. SCREAMIN’ HILL BREWERY–CREAM RIDGE

For six generations, Screamin’ Hill has been farming for beer before it was cool. Visit their 170-acre farm and drink beer barn side for a true barn-to-table experience. They don’t call us the Garden State for nothing!

Brews to Try: Tractor Pullin’, a pale ale dry hopped with cascade and chinook; El Lager Cerveza, a Mexican lager with lime and sea salt; and Raz Wheat, a wheat ale with red raspberries.

14. SHIP BOTTOM BREWERY–BEACH HAVEN

LBI goers love this place, and for good reason. Hang out bayside in Beach Haven with brews that taste perfect after a day on the beach. Order the Wipeout, a flight of eight beers so you can try most of their on-tap menu.

Brews to Try: Bomb Pop Sour Ale, a fruited sour inspired by the nostalgic summer treat; Shack IPA, in honor of the late LBI landmark (IYKYK) with stone fruit aromas; Blueberry Wheat Ale, just as it sounds and as delicious as Jersey Fresh blueberries.

15. SOURCE FARMHOUSE BREWERY–COLTS NECK

Located on a 130-year-old dairy farm in Colts Neck, this farm-to-glass brewery looks at beer as something that can tell a story and bring people together. Enjoy an ale on a summer evening on their rooftop terrace with expansive views of the farmland in Monmouth County.

Brews to Try: Strawberry Lychee Wit, a Belgian-style wheat ale with orange peel, strawberry, and lychee; Barnyard Mild, an English-style mild ale with notes of toasty bread crust, subtle caramel, and a hint of nuttiness.

16. THE DRUERY BREWERY–LAWRENCEVILLE

The new kid on the block, The Druery Brewery, opened its small taproom in December last year with the hopes of opening a larger-scale brewery after testing out its brew recipes. Their taproom is cozy, and if you want a seat to watch the next big game, consider going as soon as they open.

Brews to Try: Sprites, a summer wheat ale; Kactus Krusher, a seltzer with prickly pear and watermelon; and Bai Long, a vanilla crème ale.

17. THREE 3’S BREWING CO.–HAMMONTON

Hammonton is known for more than just blueberries. Three 3’s is home to the PB & Cookies lager, which was featured at their booth at the Atlantic City Beer Fest on Bader Field.

Brews to Try: Juicy Shenanigans, a hazy IPA with honeydew, mango, and citrus; Blue Devil, a light Saison conditioned on a ton of local blueberries; Twisted Cobbler: Blackberry Bash, their cobbler base conditioned on blackberry puree and graham crackers.

18. VILLAGE IDIOT BREWING–MOUNT HOLLY

Right in the heart of downtown Mount Holly, Village Idiot is the perfect summer weekend hangout spot. Consider ordering one of their slushes on a hot day, and you won’t regret it.

Brews to Try: Monkey’s Breath, a bready, walnut-colored brew; Peanut Butter Cup, an English porter with hints of peanut butter; and Rocket Pop Slush, a hard seltzer slush with flavors from your favorite summer popsicle.

New Jersey Beer Company

Old Hights Brewing Company

Ship Bottom Brewery

Village Idiot Brewing Company

NJArts TAKE CENTER

BY MICHELE LERNER

Communities Connected by Culture and Amenities

STAGE

Mention New Jersey to people from out-of-state and they’ll smile with fond memories of a beach vacation in Ocean City or an antiquing weekend in Cape May. But locals know every community throughout the state has its own culture— whether it’s a college town, a seaside village or a trendy downtown neighborhood with performing arts spaces, music festivals and art venues. Realtors® can help buyers explore communities and make the connection between the local culture, their lifestyle, and the potential impact on home values.

“Cultural spots like art galleries, theaters and museums add a layer of personality and energy to a neighborhood,” said Woo Kim, founder of LynkMe Cards, a digital business card company. “They make an area feel alive and interesting. I’ve noticed that younger buyers and even downsizing boomers are especially drawn to places where there’s always something to do or explore—it’s not just about the house, it’s about the lifestyle.”

Many people who move to New Jersey, especially from New York City, look to replicate the diverse culture they experience in cities, said Kelly Raggio, broker/owner and Realtor® of RE/MAX Central Manalapan.

“People like to move to places like Red Bank, Princeton and Westfield where they can walk to restaurants, art galleries and performing arts venues along with parks,” said Raggio. “They want a quaint meets cosmopolitan lifestyle, and these towns deliver that.”

CourtesyofMontclairArtMuseum

DL Hughley at Union County Performing Arts Center, photo by Christina L. Wilson

Maple Hall, Courtesy of T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center

Community and Culture Create Value

For Realtors®, community features can be great talking points, said Kim.

“Instead of just listing the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, Realtors® can paint a picture, such as ‘You’re a five-minute walk from live jazz on Friday nights or ‘steps from weekend art markets’,” said Kim. “It helps buyers connect emotionally, and that connection goes a long way in closing deals.”

In addition, Kim recommends Realtors® and other community members actively highlight their cultural scene.

“Start small and local—showcase artists, host pop-up events, highlight murals or historic landmarks,” said Kim. “Even something as simple as including a local art walk or live music night in city newsletters or on social

Cultural Hotspots

While nearly every town has a local landmark, a few cities and towns stand out for their cultural amenities, such as:

media helps build that identity.”

Community leaders may want to invest in enhancing cultural amenities in their town for economic development and to maintain real estate values.

According to the Central Oregon Business News, “The presence of well-established or emerging cultural districts within a city signals a strong, community-focused area with growth potential, appealing to both residential buyers and commercial investors. These areas typically maintain their value and can even thrive in economic downturns, as the cultural sector often remains a draw for tourism and local patronage.”

Kim agrees.

“Homes in areas with a strong cultural vibe tend to hold their value better and attract more interest,” said Kim. “Buyers feel like they’re getting

more than just a home—they’re buying into a community experience.”

Development can be jumpstarted in communities where artists have been encouraged to move through financial incentives or where live-work spaces have been built to attract artists, said Humberto Diaz, a Realtor® with Coldwell Banker Realty in Hoboken.

“Property values often increase the fastest around places with art galleries, museums and performing arts venues, such as in Newark near the Prudential Center and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center,” said Diaz. “A lot of buyers in Union County and Hudson County come from New York City, Queens and Brooklyn, so it’s a selling point to show them there’s an arts scene here and that it’s not a suburban area with nothing to do.”

Beach Town Culture

Buyers dreaming of a beach home come for the sandy shoreline, but each town has its own nuance and culture, said Jeff Quintin, a Realtor® with eXp Realty in Ocean City.

• Hoboken. Washington Street in Hoboken features bars and boutiques, with nearby art galleries. In the spring and the fall, the Hoboken Arts and Music Festival brings together artists and performers. “Since the 1980s there’s been a large artist community in Hoboken that’s brought artists in from New York and other areas to live there,” said Diaz.

“Ocean City has the Ocean City Music Pier for summer concerts, lots of festivals and is a family-oriented dry community with no bars or liquor stores,” Quintin said. “A couple of towns over, Margate is more adult-oriented with bars, entertainment venues and casinos in nearby Atlantic City. Cape May has its historic homes, art galleries and is quaint, with good restaurants.”

Sea Isle City, Quintin said, is a “full-on party town” with more short-term vacation rentals and beach bars.

• Jersey City. Since 2004, when the city offered livework spaces to artists through a lottery system, art has infused the city, said Diaz. There’s an annual artist’s walk where people can visit open studios, plus murals have been added to buildings and traffic lights around the city.

• Newark. Museums, art galleries and performing arts venues add to the culture in New Jersey’s largest city.

• Princeton. In addition to the museum and performing arts venues affiliated with Princeton University, there are art galleries, shops, restaurants and other cultural amenities within the town’s walkable downtown, said Raggio.

• Red Bank. A quaint town known for its art scene and live music located less than 10 miles from the Jersey shore and with a ferry to New York City.

“The Wildwoods have tons of festivals and events, including the Barefoot Country Music Festival and Monster Truck Jams, plus a boardwalk for families,” he said. “Other towns like Avalon and Stone Harbor have luxury homes, high-end restaurants and a more chill beach vibe.”

Ocean City

New Jersey’s Cultural Institutions to Explore:

Performing Arts Venues

• New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. In addition to performances, the organization provides educational and cultural events throughout the city.

• Prudential Center in Newark. In addition to sports, this venue offers a calendar of concerts, comedy shows, family events, and more.

• Richardson Auditorium in Princeton. This venue hosts a variety of concerts, including the Princeton Symphony Orchestra, as well as lectures by public figures and more than 200 theatrical performances annually.

• The Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. A performing arts center named after jazz legend William “Count” Basie.

• Two River Theater in Red Bank Founded in 1994, this venue produces American and world masterpieces as well as new works.

• Union County Performing Arts Center. Two stages offer an array of theatrical performances and concerts.

• The Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn This regional theatre offers new original plays, musicals and educational programs.

• State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick. As part of its 100th year anniversary, this theatre was completely renovated in 2021 and today hosts theatre performances, comedy shows, concerts, and other events.

• The Stone Pony in Asbury Park Since it opened in 1974, this concert venue has gained world renown as the stage where Bruce Springsteen got his start. The venue offers a full calendar of performances.

• Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown. This entertainment venue for theatre and music also includes art galleries.

Art Museums

• Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton. A 42-acre not-forprofit sculpture park and arboretum founded by Seward Johnson with more than 270 contemporary sculptures by renowned and emerging artists. The museum also has indoor galleries.

• Princeton University Art Museum. (Re-opens Oct. 31, 2025) The museum collection, founded in 1882, includes more than 72,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years of world history and all the world’s major cultures. The new museum is designed by architect Sir David Adjaye.

• The Newark Museum of Art New Jersey’s largest museum includes both art and natural science exhibits, a planetarium and a sculpture garden.

• Montclair Art Museum. This community-based museum has more than 12,000 objects including paintings, sculptures and photographs by Native American and American artists from the past 300 years.

• Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center in Millville. Founded as Wheaton Village in 1968, this nonprofit organization

provides educational programs and collections including the Museum of American Glass.

• Hunterdon Art Museum in Clinton. Located in a 19th century stone mill, the regional art center founded in 1953 features contemporary art, craft and design exhibits as well as classes and workshops.

Literary Landmarks

The American Library Association and the New Jersey Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Library of Congress, list numerous places booklovers can visit in New Jersey, including:

• Sunnybank in Wayne, where author and dog breeder Albert Payson Terhune lived with his wife Anice. He wrote many books about his dogs, including Lad: A Dog (1919).

• Dorothy Parker’s birthplace in West End, the summer cottage of short story writer, critic, poet known as a member of the Algonquin Round Table and champion for social justice.

• William Carlos Williams’ home in Rutherford, the lifelong home of the writer and physician.

• T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center in Red Bank, which focuses on the work of Timothy Thomas Fortune, an American orator, civil rights leader, journalist, editor and publisher who was the editor of the nation’s leading black newspaper The New York Age and a long-time advisor to Booker T. Washington.

• Walt Whitman House in Camden, where the poet, best known for Leaves of Grass, lived from 1884 until his death in 1892.

• Joyce Kilmer tree in New Brunswick, a tree designated as a literary landmark on the campus of Rutgers University in honor of the author and poet’s famous Trees poem. Kilmer was born in New Brunswick and attended Rutgers.

Swan Lake, Courtesy of New Jersey Performing Arts Center

Only in NJ

BY DINA CHENEY

From the iconic Atlantic City boardwalk to neon-lit diners, full-service gas stations, and those famously quirky jughandles, the Garden State is anything but ordinary. Where else can you find Victorian seaside charm, deepfried boardwalk indulgence, and a street festival on any given weekend? If you need a reminder of why New Jersey is proudly one-of-a-kind, start with these destinations and experiences.

Go on a diner crawl: New Jersey is known as the “diner capital of the world” for good reason. It’s home to about 500 of these iconic establishments, more than anywhere else. Recognize them by their trademark metal-andneon or stone facades. Once inside, select a song from the jukebox (like “Born in the U.S.A” by Bruce Springsteen, who famously grew up in the state), peruse the massive menu, and order an omelet, Greek platter, or disco fries (with brown gravy and melted mozzarella). A couple spots to try: the Summit Diner (Summit) and Tick Tock Diner (Clifton).

Head to the shore: The New Jersey coastline is a mere 130 miles, but the state’s beach culture has left an indelible mark on American pop culture—just consider MTV’s “The Jersey Shore” and HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire.” It took off in 1870, when the world’s first (and longest) boardwalk was built in Atlantic City. (Fun fact: Saltwater taffy was also invented there a few years later.) Since then, heading to the Jersey Shore has been practically a required ritual for state residents. Each summer, New Jerseyans eager for sun flock to towns like Asbury Park, Wildwood, and Seaside Heights.

Tour Princeton University: For a dose of history and beauty, tour this storied Ivy League school founded in 1746. Follow in the footsteps of alums, Woodrow Wilson, Michelle Obama, Jeff Bezos, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, and enter through the FitzRandolph Gate. Among the picturesque Collegiate Gothic buildings on campus, don’t miss Nassau Hall (which served as the U.S. capital in 1783), Firestone Library (home to an extensive rare books collection, including Einstein’s letters), Princeton University Chapel, and the Frist Campus Center (featured in the TV show, “House M.D.”).

Visit the “Painted Ladies” in Cape May: Known for its hundreds of well-preserved Victorians, the seaside resort town of Cape May is a National Historic Landmark. Built mainly in the second half of the 19th century, these homes (many converted into B&Bs) feature gingerbread trim, towers, turrets, porches, steep gables, and vibrantly hued facades. For more Victorian architecture, add Ocean Grove, Montclair, Morristown, Madison, Bernardsville, Bordentown, Lambertville, and Clinton to your itinerary.

Walk through an elephant, really: For architecture that’s more kitschy than classy, visit Lucy the Elephant (Margate City), a six-story elephant-shaped structure built in 1881. Register for a tour and pick up a souvenir at the site’s gift shop.

Get spooked: Connoisseurs of creep can explore eerie spots within state borders. Pine Barrens is home to the legendary Jersey Devil and ghost town of Batsto Village. The Spy House (Port Monmouth), steeped in Revolutionary War history, is believed to be haunted. Clinton Road (West Milford) is associated with ghosts and cult activity, while The Gates of Hell (Clifton) are graffiti-ed storm drain tunnels known for satanic rituals. Finally, don’t say you haven’t been warned: if you touch the storied oak, The Devil’s Tree (Bernards Township), you’ll be cursed, according to local lore.

FROM LOCAL ROOTS TO DIGITAL REACH:

MEET THE NJ INFLUENCERS BUILDING POWERFUL ONLINE BRANDS

BY LAUREN MELVILLE

As a Realtor®, you already have the tools to become a local or micro-influencer in your own right. These New Jersey-based content creators have cultivated niche audiences

ABBY CIFARELLI

@sommnights

A local sommelier, Abby Cifarelli, created a wine enthusiast community on Instagram with 4k followers following her tastings. Sommnights® founder, Abby started sharing her wine tasting business and adventures online, and her audience followed. Her tip: “Start small and nurture your early community. Invite friends and family to follow and share your page. Then be consistent, genuine, and let your personality shine. Passion and sincerity always resonate.”

CARLY WEINSTEIN

@carly_weinstein

With 526.7k on TikTok and 129k on Instagram, Carly Weinstein has gained a following due to authentically sharing her life, opening up dialogue about mental health, body image conversations, and life in her 20s. Her tip: “Consistently interact with your audience and provide value with every post. Don’t focus on views—ask, ‘What value can I offer today?’ That shift will guide your content and grow your community.”

allowing for deeper engagement and conversation. By highlighting Jersey’s best eats, local adventures, and showing up authentically, these influencers have built online communities uniquely their own.

CHRISTINE PEREZ

@christineelliza

Self-titled as “your New Jersey bestie,” Christine Perez has fostered an online community by featuring local activities across the state, travel tips, and lifestyle tips tailored for New Jersey. With 172k followers on Instagram, Christine stays dedicated to her growing community. Her tip: “Treat your platform like a conversation, not a performance. Be real, be helpful, and show up consistently.”

DEE

@travelicious_d

With 29.6k on Instagram and 3k on TikTok, Dee posts all things food and travel in New Jersey and NYC. Foodies alike have followed Dee due to her authenticity and perspective on what to eat in the tri-state. Her tip: “Your unique voice is your superpower—own it.”

We asked each of them to share their top tip for building a successful and authentic social media presence to help inspire your journey.

JAS SAWHNEY @tonightspoison

By curating both unique pours and a fervent online spirits community, Jas Sawhney has 43.9k followers on Instagram. Jas attributes his social media success to authenticity and his passions: the world’s best pours. His tip: “Authenticity attracts the right audience, consistency beats perfection, and your personality is what truly makes you stand out.”

KATIE @popstar.katie

A proud Jersey Shore lover, Katie Begley started posting content true to her. She dedicated posts about local ice cream spots on the shore, her favorite Wawa treats, and many day-in-the-life posts. With 322.6k on TikTok, her authenticity is key. Her tip: “Your strongest asset is your individuality. People follow people, not perfection!”

KYLE GETZ

@TipsyCritic

Self proclaimed tipsy critic, Kyle has obtained 78k Instagram and 15.8k TikTok followers by reviewing New Jersey’s top spots and local eateries. Staying true to his “jersey roots, global appetite” mission, Kyle shares unique but local spots for all palates. His tip: ”The hardest part is to just start! Find a niche that intersects your passion—have integrity, be authentic & find a proper balance: train your eye to be consistent with the right amount frequency and manically focus on quality!

MACKENZIE

@thejerseygirlguide

With 36.6k followers on Instagram and around 1k on TikTok, Mackenzie is no stranger to finding her niche on social media. Highlighting the best local “Jersey spots a girl could dream of,” Mackenzie features trendy coffee spots, unique eats across the state, and seasonal activity recommendations for every type of girl. Her tip: “Don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s impossible. You are worthy of success—you just have to believe it, and the rest will follow.”

MARCUS @WhereIsMarcus__

Exploring New Jersey’s food scene, Marcus has gained over 10k followers on Instagram and 1k on TikTok. While highlighting the hot spots in the state, Marcus ventures out beyond state lines to feature trending eats. His tip: “Stay consistent and be yourself.”

MORGAN COLEMAN @readysetsweatfitness

Morgan is the founder of The Clubhouse in Summit and shares her fitness journey with 5k Instagram followers. Her mix of nutrition tips, workout routines, and behind-the-scenes clips gives her brand depth and relatability. Her tip: “The more authentic you can be about what’s really happening inside your business, the faster people will connect with you and your brand.”

NICOLE DRAGON @thefooddragon

Nicole Dragon has a following uniquely her own. As a private chef on Long Beach Island in New Jersey and San Diego, Nicole knows what it’s like to have a business while sharing her life and creating content. With a presence on Instagram with 45.5k followers and 32k followers and 1.2 million likes on TikTok, Nicole makes an impact by posting what she loves. Her tip: “My best content comes from not trying too hard. I just hit record while I’m doing what I love— prepping, cooking, hosting dinner parties. It’s not about polish, it’s about being real.”

STEPHANIE @nj_foodcravings

As a former chef, Stephanie has a deep passion for supporting local businesses and hospitality, which led her to start @nj_foodcravings on Instagram. With 17.2k followers on Instagram, Stephanie highlights the incredible food scene right here in New Jersey and the people behind it.

Her tip: “Stay consistent and true to your voice. People connect with authenticity, so focus on building relationships, telling real stories, and supporting your community—it goes a long way.”

WHY REALTORS® MAKE GREAT INFLUENCERS

Social media consumers crave authenticity, and as a Realtor®—you already have that. Post behind-the-scenes content of your business, listing sneak peeks, and become your community’s local expert, like posting your favorite dining spots.

Posting consistently can grow your reach to increase your audience, according to brandbassador.com. Engage with your audience by replying to comments, sharing your followers’ posts, and leaving thoughtful responses on mutual accounts. It’s these little touches

that transform a following into a true community—and position you as not just a real estate expert, but a trusted local voice. Don’t forget to tag us on your influencing journey! (@njrealtors)

MADE

IN JERSEY:

Five Inventions That Changed The World

BY WILLIAM THOMPSON NJ REALTORS® DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

New Jersey has more to offer the world than just beaches and boardwalks—although, for the record, we invented the boardwalk too. The Garden State has played a key role in shaping how we live, work, and conduct business. From Edison’s workshop in Menlo Park to Bell Labs in Murray Hill, some of the most transformative inventions of modern history have Jersey roots.

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COLOR TELEVISION –1954, CAMDEN

When RCA’s research center in Camden, New Jersey introduced the first commercial color television broadcast in 1954, it didn’t just change how we watched TV– it changed how we lived. Color TV brought living rooms to life and quickly

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LIGHT BULBS – 1879, MENLO PARK

The simple light bulb is such an integral part of our society, it’s hard to imagine a world without electric light. That is, until 1879, when Thomas Edison successfully tested the first commercially viable light bulb in Menlo Park, New Jersey. His breakthrough didn’t just extend the workday—which we may never forgive him for—it changed how homes were built and how people lived in them. Electricity became standard in new construction, and soon after, lighting became a shining feature of every home. Today, lighting remains an important element when staging and showing a home. Whether recessed, designer fixtures, or smart lights, buyers notice. And while Edison may not have been thinking about a kitchen’s ambiance, his invention laid the foundation.

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TRANSISTOR – 1947, MURRAY HILL

While it may not look like much, and you might not realize how much you rely on it, the transistor is widely considered one of the most important inventions of the 20th century. First demonstrated at Bell Labs in Murray Hill, New Jersey, the transistor acts as a tiny electronic switch, controlling the flow of electricity in a circuit. That small function has a huge innovative impact, replacing bulky vacuum tubes and becoming the building block for all modern electronics. From computers to cars, without transistors, our tech-driven, mobile lifestyle simply wouldn’t exist.

became a centerpiece of the modern home, evolving layouts to accommodate the screen as the primary focal point. Decor shifted around entertainment, and soon after, so did expectations with television becoming a standard installation in homes across the country. While we’ve come a long way from rabbit ears and dial knobs, it all started right here in New Jersey.

BUBBLE WRAP – 1957, HAWTHORNE

In 1957, two engineers working out of their garage in Hawthorne, New Jersey, set out to invent textured wallpaper. What they came up with instead was Bubble Wrap. It didn’t catch on as home décor (thankfully!), but it found its place in the world as the go-to packing material for fragile items. Simple in design yet infinitely practical, Bubble Wrap became one of the most recognizable, and oddly satisfying, inventions of the last century, even earning its own holiday, National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day, celebrated on the last Monday in January.

CELL PHONE –1947, MURRAY HILL

Before smartphones became our calendars, cameras, and livelihoods, the foundation for cellular technology was laid right here in New Jersey. In 1947, engineers at Bell Labs proposed a revolutionary idea: divide service areas into “cells,” each with its own tower, so radio frequencies could be reused without interference. This concept made it possible to move from corded kitchen wall phone to the handheld device we rely on today. Without it, the first truly mobile call in 1973 wouldn’t have been possible—when a Motorola engineer famously called his rival at Bell Labs to let him know who got there first. Our cell phones aren’t just a convenience, they’re integral to how we live and do business.

Tour the New Jersey State House

BY CATHERINE BEST, NJ REALTORS® DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

At our annual advocacy day, Realtors® Day in Trenton, our attendees had the opportunity to tour the recently renovated New Jersey State House. Follow along with us as we tour one of the oldest state houses in continuous use in the U.S.

The 3.75 acres of land on which the State House sits were purchased for just 250 British pounds, and the original structure was built in 1792 by Jonathan Doane. Since then, there have been 12 major reconstruction

projects altering the original building, with the latest restoration projects wrapping up in 2023.

All facts are from nj.gov and the New Jersey Office of Legislative Services.

The State House dome was restored in 1999. 48,000 pieces of gold leaf now cover the iconic structure, all paid for with money raised by New Jersey school children through the Dimes for Dome program.

The Hall of Flags displays the county flags for all 21 of New Jersey’s counties.

The governor’s office is in the State House, just a few steps away from the rotunda.

The Renaissance Revival style dome is 105 feet from floor to ceiling and was rebuilt after a fire in the late 1880s and restored to its appearance between 1911 and

1913 during the recent renovation.

The floor of the rotunda features New Jersey’s State Seal, which was designed in 1777 and features Liberty, representing freedom, and the Roman goddess Ceres, representing agriculture and prosperity.

Golden eagles welcome you right as you enter the

rotunda as a symbol of freedom and strength.

The rotunda features portraits of New Jersey’s governors.

Outside of the Assembly Chambers, photos of past assembly leaders adorn the walls.

The Assembly Chambers, where all 80 representatives vote on bills. The carpet is custom and features New Jersey’s symbols, such as the state tree, state flower, state insect, and state bird.

A light fixture hanging in the center of the Assembly Chambers,

installed by Thomas Edison’s Electric Light Company in 1891.

When members of the Assembly vote on a bill, their decision will be on the board. Assembly members can vote yay, nay, or abstain.

Wall sconces in the Assembly Chambers were originally piped for gas but have since been converted.

The State Senate Chambers, where the Senate President presides over the 40 State Senators. The Senate President sits on the upper part of the dais, while the appointed Senate Secretary, who is not

a legislator, sits on the lower portion.

In the Senate Chambers, the ceiling’s stained glass dome contains the names of New Jerseyans who contributed to the history of the state, such as William

Livingston and John Witherspoon.

The murals in the Senate Chambers feature Liberty and Prosperity, the women in the state emblem, depicting New Jersey industries and scenes from the Revolutionary War.

RPAC OF NEW JERSEY

Fundraising total as of July 18, 2025

A551

Stanley (D18), Sampson (D31)

S1046

Greenstein (D14), Moriarty (D4)

Permits certain consumers up to five business days to cancel home improvement contracts and up to three days to cancel certain consumer goods contracts.

New Jersey Realtors® Position: MONITOR

We are monitoring this bill to ensure that the exemption for real estate contracts from the requirements of this bill which New Jersey Realtors® negotiated remains in the final version of the legislation.

Bill History:

1/9/2024—Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee

1/9/2024—Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Commerce Committee

10/24/2024—Reported out of Assembly committee with amendments and referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee

2/10/2025—Reported out of Assembly committee as a substitute, second reading in Assembly 5/22/2025—Assembly Floor Amendment Passed 6/30/2025—Passed by the Assembly 80-0

A5203

A5203 – Dunn (R25), Marenco (D33)

Codifies Bringing Veterans Home Initiative.

New Jersey Realtors® Position: SUPPORT

We support this bill to formally establish in State Law the Bringing Veterans Home Imitative created by the New Jersey Department of State to end veterans’ homelessness.

Bill History:

1/16/2025—Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee

A5264

Karabinchak (D18), Haider (D37)

S4100

McKeon (D27), Greenstein (D14)

Requires establishment of automated platform to expedite construction code approval of applications to install residential solar energy systems.

New Jersey Realtors® Position: SUPPORT

We support this bill reducing red tape for New Jersey residents who wish to install solar panels on their homes.

Bill History:

2/3/2025—Introduced in Senate and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee

2/10/2025—Introduced in Assembly and referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee

3/6/2025—Reported out of Assembly committee and referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee 5/15/2025—Reported out of Assembly committee with amendments, second reading in Assembly

5/22/2025—Reported from Senate committee with amendments

5/22/2025—Passed by the Assembly 78-0 5/29/2025—Received in Senate and referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee

6/9/2025—Reported from Senate Committee, second reading in Senate 6/30/2025—Passed by the Senate 39-0 and sent to Governor

WRealtors ® Q&A

Meet the Decision Makers ASSEMBLYMAN

WILLIAM F. MOEN JR.

elcome to our series, Meet the Decision Makers, where we interview key decision makers on their influential role within New Jersey. For this issue, we have Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr., Chair of the Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee and Vice Chair of the Housing Committee. His verbatim responses are italicized below. Do you have an idea of someone you’d like to see us interview? Email editor@njrealtor.com

What are you working on in the State Legislature that could impact the real estate industry?

The first project that comes to mind is a piece of legislation that I am co-sponsoring, Assembly Bill 5424. Institutional investors–often corporations, businesses, and trusts—are significant players in New Jersey’s housing market. In 2020, the Department of Community Affairs published that 1 in 17 residential properties in New Jersey were institutionally owned. That’s double the value it was in 2012. Institutional homeownership can drive down housing stock and property values while increasing housing prices. A5424 would implement a fee that deters institutional ownership, helping New Jerseyans access and afford single-family homes and rentals.

Can you tell us about the State of New Jersey’s tourism arm, Visit NJ?

Visit NJ is a fantastic initiative spearheaded by the Division of Travel and Tourism. VisitNJ.org maintains a thorough directory of attractions, events, and lodgings across our state. As Chair of the Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee, one of my primary objectives is to support and promote our tourism industry. It’s why I take my committee on the road. I hear from and work with the groups who benefit from this promotion all the time. I am committed to continue

collaborating with initiatives like Visit NJ to advocate for our tourism industry.

Beyond the shore, what do you think keeps visitors coming back to New Jersey?

Several reasons, many my committee highlights at the destinations we visit. New Jersey has a rich history that visitors can explore at historical landmarks like the Monmouth Battlefield and Battleship New Jersey. The Garden State is brimming with arboretums, farms, and wineries. Cape May is more than a shore town—it features a renowned winery and vineyard. You’re never far from a quality dining or shopping destination in the state. New Jersey has the Delaware and Raritan rivers and wilderness perfect for outdoor sports. 2026 will be a particularly enticing year for visitors—the World Cup and USA 250 th will place New Jersey on the global stage. It’s an exciting opportunity to welcome new visitors, and we are committed to showing them how New Jersey is much more than the shore.

Can you tell us about the tourism commission’s recent expansion to include Central Jersey as a tourism region?

Thanks to legislation passed in 2023, Central Jersey is now promoted on New Jersey’s official tourism map. This change helps Visit NJ give the

region’s features their proper due. If visitors are unsure where to start, they can utilize Visit NJ’s three-Day Road Trip itinerary or the website’s informational pages to learn more about the region’s features. It is an incredible resource that allows tourists to embrace everything Central Jersey has to offer.

If someone is coming to visit NJ for the first time, what’s on your must-visit list?

That’s a great question. Visitors should absolutely explore the shore—its beaches, fine dining, and amusement parks—and make a point to travel inland. I always recommend Battleship New Jersey and Adventure Aquarium, two incredible attractions my legislative district is thrilled to host. For a world-class gaming experience, visit Atlantic City and its exhilarating casinos and shows. Enjoy beautiful gardens and art at 42-acre Grounds for Sculpture. There’s no better way to conclude a New Jersey visit than strolling along one of our many main streets or enjoying our local wineries and breweries.

What is your favorite New Jersey food?

Pizza. Friday is pizza night at the Moen household, and it’s good to know that we can travel anywhere in the state and find a great slice.

Realtors® Raise Fair Housing Awarenes

Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® Equal Opportunity and Cultural Diversity Committee was proud to participate in the 2025 Pride Festival in Asbury Park. Realtor® members raised awareness and provided education on fair housing rights and housing protections for the LGBTQIA+ community.

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Diaper Drive Supports Atlantic County Residents

The Public Relations Committee of the Atlantic City & County Board of Realtors® held a diaper drive this spring. The drive ended with a mock baby shower, and the collection of diapers and wipes exceeded the committee’s expectations. Diapers and wipes were distributed to six agencies in Atlantic County: Court Appointed Advocates for Children, Jersey Shore Women’s Center, Avanzar (To Move Forward) Shelter, Co-Operative, Division of Children and Family Atlantic Campus, and Crisis Pregnancy Center.

Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors® Equal Opportunity and Cultural Diversity Committee members participated in and raised awareness at the 2025 Pride Festival in Asbury Park.

Inaugural Super Hero 5K Raises Scholarship Funds

The Sussex County Association of Realtors® held its inaugural Super Hero 5K Walk/Run for Scholarships in June at the scenic Sussex County Fairgrounds. 90 registrants donned their capes and laced up their running shoes in support of New Jersey Realtors® Educational Foundation and scholarships for local students pursuing higher education. Food trucks, DJ, dunk tank, games, and costumes made this an event to remember.

Members of the Public Relations Committee of the Atlantic City & County Board of Realtors® at their diaper drive and mock baby shower this spring.

Greater Bergen Realtors® Supports National Rebuilding Day 2025 in Hackensack

The Greater Bergen Realtors® and Realtors® Care Foundation Community Outreach Committee teamed up once again with long-time partner Rebuilding Together North Jersey for National Rebuilding Day in April. Volunteers gathered in Hackensack to assist with vital home improvement projects for those in need. The team tackled tasks including painting, fixture repairs, outdoor clean-up, gardening, and the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The effort supports low-income families, veterans, older adults, and others in need of safe, healthy homes.

Greater Bergen Realtors and Realtors Community Outreach Committee members teamed up in their efforts to support National Rebuilding Day 2025 on April 26.

Members

the Sussex County Association of Realtors® at their inaugural Super Hero 5K Walk/Run for Scholarships in support of NJ Realtors® Educational Foundation in June.