South Jersey is under a blast of frigid temperatures as the polar vortex continues to bring dangerously cold conditions to our area, prompting utilities and safety experts to urge homeowners to take simple steps now to prevent frozen and bursting pipes before costly damage occurs.

“When temperatures stay below freezing for extended periods, water inside pipes can freeze and expand, often leading to cracks or full bursts that result in extensive water damage,” said a spokesman for New Jersey American Water, which shared winter preparedness guidance for customers.

Pipes located in unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces, and along exterior walls are most vulnerable and should be protected first.

Here are key precautions homeowners can take:

• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing from at least one faucet. Running water is less likely to freeze and relieves pressure inside pipes during severe cold.

• Maintain consistent indoor heat — avoid turning down the thermostat overnight or when you’re away. Setting it at no lower than about 55°F can significantly reduce the risk of freeze-ups.

• Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heating tape in attics, basements, and other cold spaces.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air can circulate around vulnerable plumbing.

• Disconnect outdoor hoses and drain spigots to prevent trapped water from freezing in outdoor lines.

If you do suspect pipes have frozen — indicated by no water flow or reduced pressure — experts recommend shutting off the main water supply immediately and contacting a professional rather than risking a burst during thaw.

With bitter cold expected to persist, these proactive steps can make the difference between cozy winter comfort and costly home repairs.

Atlantic City, NJ — A longstanding legal battle over indoor smoking in Atlantic City casinos took a dramatic turn this week after a New Jersey appellate court overturned key parts of a lower court decision and ordered the case back for further proceedings, injecting new life into the fight over casino workers’ rights and public health protections.

The lawsuit, originally filed in April 2024 by the United Automobile Workers Region 9 and Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), challenges a provision of the state’s Smoke-Free Air Act that exempts casinos from New Jersey’s indoor smoking ban. Plaintiffs argue the exemption violates casino workers’ constitutional rights by exposing them to secondhand smoke — a well-documented health hazard.

In a Jan. 26 ruling, a three-judge panel of the New Jersey Appellate Division found that the trial court improperly dismissed several constitutional claims and failed to conduct adequate fact-finding before rejecting the lawsuit in 2024. The appellate panel agreed that the judge relied too heavily on industry-funded economic projections and a “rational basis” standard rather than applying a more thorough equal protection analysis required under state law.

“The trial court, after discerning no fundamental right is at stake, applied a mistaken approach to plaintiffs’ state equal protection challenge without conducting a fulsome balancing of the competing interests,” the appellate opinion said. “Such findings are especially crucial to the ultimate disposition of plaintiffs’ state equal protection arguments, with the health of thousands of casino employees and, perhaps, millions of dollars at stake.”

While the appeals court upheld the trial court’s refusal to issue a preliminary injunction — meaning smoking may continue on casino floors for now — it vacated the dismissal of the case and remanded it for further hearings to develop a full factual record. That includes testimony and evidence about how a full smoking ban could affect casino revenue and employment — a central industry argument against change.

Nancy Erika Smith, an attorney representing the workers, said her clients are pushing for the New Jersey Supreme Court to take up the case directly rather than subjecting it to further trial court proceedings. “We agree with the appellate division that the New Jersey Supreme Court should decide the important constitutional issues raised by this case,” she told NJ.com. “We don’t think we need more evidence beyond what’s in the record.”

Industry representatives, for their part, emphasize the economic importance of allowing smoking in a highly competitive gaming market. Supporters of the current exemption have previously cited studies suggesting that customers who smoke may otherwise take their business to casinos in neighboring states.

As the case returns to a lower court, stakeholders on both sides are preparing for potentially months more of legal arguments that could reshape workplace conditions in Atlantic City’s casinos and influence public health policy statewide.

What Happens Next: A Possible Timeline

With the case now sent back to the trial court, the next phase is expected to unfold over much of 2026. A status conference will likely be scheduled in the coming weeks to set deadlines for additional briefing and limited discovery, as ordered by the Appellate Division.

The judge may reopen the factual record to allow updated evidence on the health effects of secondhand smoke and the economic impact of a full smoking ban. That process could take several months, particularly if expert testimony is required.

A new trial-level ruling on the constitutional claims is unlikely before late 2026. Any decision could be appealed, extending the case further. Separately, the plaintiffs have indicated they may ask the New Jersey Supreme Court to take the case directly, which could accelerate a final resolution into 2026 or early 2027.

Smoking remains permitted on up to 25 percent of casino floors in the meantime.

Why This Matters: The outcome could reshape workplace health standards for thousands of casino employees and determine whether Atlantic City’s long-standing smoking exemption survives.

Breeze Airways announced today that it will begin service at Atlantic City International Airport this spring, marking a significant expansion of travel options for residents and visitors in southern New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia region.

Starting in May and June 2026, Breeze will launch two nonstop routes—to Charleston, South Carolina, and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina—as well as a one-stop “BreezeThru” service to Tampa, Florida that requires no plane change. The Charleston flights will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays beginning May 6, with one-way introductory fares starting at $49. Raleigh-Durham service kicks off June 11 on Thursdays and Sundays, with fares from $39 one-way, and BreezeThru service to Tampa also begins June 11.

“Atlantic City is not only a great destination for travelers, but also a gateway to many other metro areas,” said David Neeleman, founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. “We know Atlantic City will be a welcome addition to our guests in Charleston, Raleigh, and Tampa, and we look forward to introducing our new guests in Atlantic City to Breeze.”

Officials with the South Jersey Transportation Authority also welcomed the new service, noting that the additional airline enhances the airport’s offerings and provides greater convenience for local passengers. “The new routes give travelers from the southern New Jersey/Philadelphia region a more convenient access to two popular and growing destinations,” said Executive Director Stephen Dougherty.

Breeze’s entry makes Atlantic City International Airport one of the few smaller Northeast airports now served by three carriers, following recent service additions by Allegiant Air and ongoing operations by Spirit Airlines.

Travelers can begin booking the new Breeze routes immediately through the airline’s website or app, with service set to start just as warmer weather and summer travel season approaches.

Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is making headlines today with the launch of expanded commercial airline service, marking a milestone in the airport’s ongoing growth strategy. Officials from the South Jersey Transportation Authority gathered for a press conference this morning to announce the arrival of a third airline at the South Jersey travel hub — a development that local leaders say will “significantly strengthen regional connectivity and drive long-term economic impact across the region.”

While the specific airline name was not disclosed ahead of today’s briefing, airport officials described the expansion as a “major new commercial air service development” that will provide travelers with more options and enhanced access to key U.S. cities. “This is a meaningful step forward for the airport’s long-term growth strategy,” one official said during the announcement.

Atlantic City International currently has limited commercial service compared to larger regional airports, with Spirit Airlines historically serving as the primary carrier. The addition of a new airline — following the recent entry of Allegiant Air and expanded routes to Florida — is expected to increase flight frequency, introduce nonstop destinations, and foster competition that could lead to lower fares for passengers throughout Atlantic County and the greater South Jersey region.

Listen to News/Talk 1400 and 92.3 WOND for more live and local news as it happens throughout the day.

The significant winter storm that struck South Jersey on Sunday is finally beginning to taper off, but not before delivering heavy snow followed by a shifting mix of sleet, rain, and freezing rain that made roads treacherous across the region. Officials across the state and in local communities urged residents to take the storm seriously as conditions deteriorated through the day. A flurry of closings for Monday have already been announced.

In the lead-up to the storm, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts, urging residents to avoid travel if possible. “It’s been a while since New Jersey faced a storm like this,” Sherrill said in a press briefing before the storm hit. “We’re tough here, but we have to be safe.” 

Throughout the storm, transportation officials warned that road conditions could remain difficult even as precipitation changed form. Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation Joe Bertoni said state crews were treating major highways and that speed limits had been temporarily lowered to help reduce crashes. “I urge all New Jerseyans to stay home, avoid travel, and follow all safety protocols during the storm,” Bertoni said as the storm progressed. 

Before the snow changed to a wintry mix during the afternoon, snow totals in South Jersey were notable: Buena Vista Townshipreported about 6.7 inches, Hammonton saw 6 inches, and Atlantic City International Airport measured nearly 5.9 inches before the precipitation turned to sleet and rain. In Ocean City, observers noted around 6 inches before the changeover, and Cape May had close to 5 inches on the ground. 

The storm’s lingering ice and rain late Sunday make cleanup and travel a continuing challenge. Local emergency management teams continue to work with precipitation still falling. Colder temperatures after midnight increase the likelihood of icy and dangerous roads on Monday. Listen to News Talk 1400 & 92.3 WOND for reliable local weather information around the clock.

With a winter storm expected to move into South Jersey on Sunday potentially dumping multiple inches of snow and ice across the area, local officials are urging residents to prepare now in case hazardous conditions make travel difficult or keep people at home for an extended period. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time can make a big difference in staying safe, warm, and comfortable during the storm.

One of the most important things residents can do is stock up on essentials before conditions worsen. This includes enough food and water to last at least two to three days for everyone in the household, including pets. Focus on items that don’t require cooking or refrigeration, such as canned goods, shelf-stable meals, snacks, and bottled water. If you rely on medications, be sure prescriptions are filled and accessible.

Power outages are always a possibility during winter storms, especially if heavy snow or ice brings down power lines. Residents should have flashlights, batteries, and a charged power bank ready. Avoid using candles when possible due to fire risk. If you have a generator, make sure it is in good working order and operated outdoors, far from windows and doors, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Keeping your home warm and protected is another key step. Set thermostats to a consistent temperature and close off unused rooms to conserve heat. If you use space heaters, keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable and never leave them unattended. It’s also a good idea to let faucets drip slightly to prevent pipes from freezing, especially in older homes.

Residents should also prepare for limited travel or no travel at all. Park vehicles away from trees if possible, and keep gas tanks at least half full in case you need to warm up your car or make an emergency trip once roads reopen. A basic winter car kit — including blankets, gloves, a flashlight, and ice scraper — is a smart precaution even if you plan to stay home.

Communication is another essential part of storm readiness. Make sure cell phones are fully charged, and consider writing down important phone numbers in case devices lose power. Staying informed through local news, weather alerts, and emergency notifications can help residents respond quickly if conditions change.

Finally, check in on neighbors who may need extra help, including seniors, people with disabilities, or those who live alone. A simple phone call or text before the storm can ensure everyone has what they need and knows help is available if necessary.

Winter storms are a fact of life in South Jersey, but a little preparation goes a long way. By planning ahead and staying informed, residents can ride out the storm safely and avoid unnecessary risks until conditions improve. Keep your radio on News Talk 1400 and 92.3 WOND for the latest storm information from our live and local hosts and meteorologist Alexa Trischler.

ATLANTIC CITY — Atlantic City’s business and civic leaders gathered Thursday evening as Mayor Marty Small delivered the city’s annual State of the City address, laying out progress and priorities for the year ahead — with support from state officials including Governor Mikie Sherrill.

Speaking before a packed room at the Golden Nugget, Small painted a picture of a city focused on infrastructure improvements, economic growth, and community support, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. His address — themed “The Future Is Ours” — underscored the effort to build on recent gains while continuing key projects that promise to shape Atlantic City’s future.

Mayor Small emphasized that more than $250 million in infrastructure investments are underway, funded without burdening local taxpayers. He highlighted ongoing roadwork that includes major repaving projects on key corridors like Atlantic and Pacific avenues and improvements to Baltic Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard. Work on these vital routes is designed to improve traffic flow, safety, and accessibility for both residents and visitors.

Looking beyond roads, Small pointed to job support and small business investment as critical to the city’s continued momentum. According to city economic development officials, nearly $900,000 in local grants supported 65 small businesses in 2025, retaining some 200 jobs and creating an estimated 75 new positions citywide. Those numbers, city leaders say, reflect a broader push to expand opportunities for residents and strengthen the local economy.

“It’s been a year of resilience — and one where Atlantic City showed it can control its own destiny,” Small said, urging continued collaboration between city and state partners.

Among those in attendance was New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, who has just recently taken office this year. While the Governor did not deliver the address, she was acknowledged by the mayor for her support and policy consistency in areas that affect Atlantic City, including economic and community development initiatives. Small also noted measures carried over under Sherrill’s administration — including sticking with key department leadership in Trenton that oversees local municipal affairs — that have provided stability for cities like Atlantic City.

Sherrill, sworn in as New Jersey’s 57th governor earlier this week in Newark, has already signed several executive actions aimed at addressing affordability for families statewide, including efforts to curb rising utility costs and promote clean energy solutions, measures she has made central to her early gubernatorial agenda.

In his address, Small also referenced ongoing and future development projects, including plans for Bader Field, which has been highlighted in previous years as a transformational economic opportunity for the city. Officials note that negotiations with prospective developers are advancing, with a goal of formal approval later this month.

Looking ahead, the mayor outlined continued focus on public safety, homelessness outreach, and community support programs, with plans to bolster resources for those services this year. Small’s message was clear: despite challenges, Atlantic City’s vision is rooted in momentum, cooperation, and a belief that the city’s best days lie ahead.