Sharing or shaming? Tracking homelessness on social media

NEW YORK (AP) — On an app, pins on a New York City map chart sightings of homelessness, accompanied by photos of people lying on sidewalks, slumped in doorways, sitting on curbs with shopping carts piled high with bags. Hashtags frame the scenes: "NeedsMedicalAid," ''Encampment," ''AggressiveBegging," ''Violent."

Comparative shopping on Route 18: 6 items, 4 Stores

Those who have lived in East Brunswick for a long time have seen several supermarkets come and go. 

Bratton tells New Yorkers: Don't give homeless money

Don't feed them and we're not talking about the pigeons. According to NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton, New Yorkers should not give cash to the homeless. Here's exactly what he said: “My best advice to the citizens of New York City: If this is so upsetting to you, don’t give. One of the quickest ways to get rid of them is not to give to them." How do you feel about not helping the homeless?

'Lack of holiday spirit' from some retailers

It's not your imagination; the holiday shopping season is beginning earlier every year. And now that it's underway in some places, so is the controversy.

Coast Guard searching for distressed vessel off Jersey shore

OCEAN CITY, N.J. (AP) — The Coast Guard is searching for a vessel in distress off the Jersey shore. Officials say the Coast Guard received a mayday call at 12:45 p.m. Sunday from the fishing vessel, Interlude. The message said the boat was taking on water and was heading into port in Ocean City. Officials say at least two people were on board. A Coast Guard helicopter and cutter were sent to look for the fishing boat.

New York library making a big stink over toilet paper theft

A branch of the New York Public Library is trying to flush out toilet paper thieves, DNAinfo.com reported.

Demolition and remodel to Warinanco Skating Rink has begun

Work crews have begun the demolition and remodel of the Warinanco Skating Rink. Due to the extensive renovation, there will be no open skating for the 2015-2016 season.

8th grade assignment asks about herpes, one night stand

A New Jersey mother said she was shocked when her eighth-grade son showed her a homework assignment that asked him to consider what he would do if he contracted herpes after drinking and having a one-night stand.

Deck of cards decides Bradenton Beach's next mayor

There's a new mayor of Bradenton Beach, thanks to the ace of clubs. The race had ended in a tie, resulting in an unusual card draw.

Stressed? Uber will bring kittens by your work today

Need a little Thursday pick-me-up? Uber will deliver kittens from local shelters for a little midday playtime today, Thursday, Oct. 29. 

Jimmy Fallon gets his own theme park ride in Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Jimmy Fallon is getting his own theme park attraction at Universal Orlando Resort.

Cueto's 2-hitter sends Royals over Mets for 2-0 Series lead

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Following the final out, after Johnny Cueto completed his two-hitter, several hundred fans remained in Kauffman Stadium, wanting one more look at the Kansas City Royals. The next time they see Eric Hosmer and his teammates may be in a parade.

Rebuilding continues in New Jersey 3 years after Sandy

TOMS RIVER, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey remains a work in progress three years after Superstorm Sandy devastated some coastal communities and left thousands without electricity for days. Events to celebrate and to criticize recovery efforts are taking place around the state to mark Thursday's anniversary. Residents displaced by the storm continue to camp out across from the Statehouse in Trenton in a protest that began Tuesday.

Jersey City expands paid sick leave

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (AP) — More workers in New Jersey's second-largest city are eligible for paid sick leave. The Jersey City Council on Wednesday voted to extend the benefit to businesses that employ less than 10 employees. Under the measure, those employers must provide workers with up to 24 hours of paid sick leave and up to 16 hours of unpaid sick time annually. Those businesses previously only had to provide unpaid time off. Violators will face a maximum fine of $2,000.

Health exchange premium up 5 percent in New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — The premium for a mid-level plan offered on the federal government's health insurance exchange will be up by 5 percent in New Jersey in 2016. But premiums will be lower, as expected, for people choosing a new plan that is receiving scrutiny from lawmakers. The federal government posted plan details on the exchange Monday. Customers can start making selections beginning Sunday. Many people can receive subsidies for care.

Superintendent announces no Sparta-Pope John Football in 2016

The Sparta-Pope John Football rivalry will not continue in the 2016 season. Sparta Superintendent Dennis Tobin made the announcement at the Board of Education meeting on Monday night.