Read on for some of our best reporting from the past year on issues impacting New Jerseyans, including our state’s dismal dental care gap and high schools that are making a difference for our inner-city youth.
1. The Last Nest: Saving Our Bald Eagle Population
Photo courtesy of K. Clark
January 2016: Against all odds, wildlife experts have helped New Jersey’s bald eagles rebound from a single pair to a thriving population. By Jim Wright
2. Exclusive: Inside Bridgegate
Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images Platt/Getty Images
February 2016: In this exclusive excerpt from Matt Katz’s new book, American Governor: Chris Christie’s Bridge to Redemption, learn about the shock waves that rippled through Christie’s inner circle as the news spread. By Matt Katz
3. Women Who Brew, Changing the Face of Beer
Photo by Jauhien Sasnou
March 2016: A growing number of determined, multitasking females are making their mark on the traditionally male-dominated beer scene. By Tara Nurin
4. Boomtown: The Rise of Jersey City
Photo by Jennifer S. Altman
July 2016: Jersey City’s resurgence delights some, but worries others. We take a tour with Steven Fulop, a mayor committed to keeping his city gritty. By Kevin Coyne
5. Left Behind: New Jersey’s Dental-Care Gap
Photo by Andy Foster
July 2016: Despite the efforts of pro bono dentists, oral health is a struggle for low-income families and others in need throughout New Jersey. By Joanna Buffum
6. Endangered Zone: How Can Jersey’s Imperiled Species Survive?
Photo credit: Steve Greer
July 2016: Across New Jersey, more than 80 species—from birds to bobcats—are imperiled by loss of habitat and other man-made threats. Wildlife advocates and state agencies are rushing to their rescue, but funds are limited. By Breanne McCarthy
7. Urban Success Stories
Photo by Christopher Lane
September 2016: These exceptional high schools provide a road map for teaching inner-city kids. By Leslie Garisto Pfaff
8. The Fragile Generation: Food Allergies On the Rise
Illustration by Ellen Weinstein
September 2016: The increase in life-threatening food allergies among children has changed the public school experience. By Joanna Buffum
9. Veterans Remember the Best Years of Their Lives
Photo by Dave Moser
November 2016: At the Veterans Home in Vineland, old soldiers enjoy companionship and shared memories, some painful, some sweet. By Kevin Coyne
10. A Night in Trauma
Photo by Fred R. Conrad
November 2016: Gunshot wound? Blow to the head? Crushed hand? There’s a good chance you’ll find yourself in one of New Jersey’s three Level I trauma centers. By Leslie Garisto Pfaff