News Roundup & Open Thread for Tuesday, January 11, 2011

by: Bill Orr

Tue Jan 11, 2011 at 08:26:28 AM EST

Meanwhile FDU poll now shows Christie's favorable-to-unfavorable opinion rating is 47%-39%. 53% of voters approve of the way he is handling his job as governor, while 36% disapprove.

Then later today you can get out your shovel or snow blower as our winter wonderland adventure is expected to resume.

In spite of tough questions from Weinberg, Sarlo, and Girgenti
Reform Jersey Now Treasurer Ron Gravino wins committee approval (7-5) as a Turnpike Commissioner.

Legislature abolishes COAH, 2.5% fee on commercial development,
and reduces some municipalities' obligations to provide housing for low- and moderate-income families.

Progressive Assemblyman Dan Benson (D-Hamilton) takes oath of office,
and assumes position formerly held by now Sen. Linda Greenstein.

'Back to Work' and more, below the fold.

Casinos and horse racing
2010 casino revenue plunges 9.6%.
Legislature approves AC Tourism District.
Legislature approves online gambling games such as Poker in casinos.
Horse racing subsidy & Tourism District linked in bill.

Controversial bill meant to lower electricity costs in NJ
gains legislative final approval.

Rock Up, Izod Down
Pru Center surged past Izod Arena in ticket sales for the first time in 2010.

Widespread abuse of NJ day laborers
Seton Hall study documents workers robbed, injured and beaten with impunity.

Sen. Lautenberg seeks to prohibit high-capacity ammunition feeding devices
such as the magazine used by Arizona shooting suspect Jared Loughner.
Hopeful comments on magazines that allow 33 shots without reloading.
A Rutherford native was one of six victims killed Saturday.

NJ government receives a "D"
in economic development transparency.

A vanishing breed
Gannett said to lay off half of its reporters at three central NJ newspapers as of February 4th.