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Hit-and-Run in Jersey City Leaves Local Journalist Injured; Driver Faces Multiple Charges

A Jersey City journalist is recovering after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run that ended in a violent multi-car crash and a string of charges against the driver, authorities said. According to police and witness accounts, the collision occurred in Jersey City when a vehicle struck a pedestrian and left the scene. The victim, a local journalist, was thrown to the ground and suffered injuries that required medical treatment. Instead of stopping, the driver, a resident in Bayonne New Jersey, Laura Castaneda, allegedly fled the area at a high rate of speed. Witnesses told investigators that the vehicle was seen traveling at what they believed to be more than 90 miles per hour along West Side Avenue, heading in the direction of Bayonne. Within seconds, the driver reportedly lost control and crashed into three parked vehicles, totaling all three as well as the vehicle they were driving. Emergency responders arrived on scene to find significant damage to the parked cars and debri...

Rare Dolphin Super Pod of 1,500 Captured on Video Off California Coast

In a remarkable natural spectacle, a "super pod" of over 1,500 Risso's dolphins was captured on video in Carmel Bay, off California's central coast, in late January 2025. This rare event was documented by Captain Evan Brodsky of Monterey Bay Whale Watch, who used drone footage to reveal the extensive gathering stretching across the horizon. (apnews.com)

Risso's dolphins typically travel in groups of 10 to 30, making this congregation of more than 1,500 individuals particularly extraordinary. The pod included both adults and juveniles, exhibiting behaviors such as breaching, tail slapping, and bow riding alongside the boat. Marine biologist Colleen Talty, part of the team observing the event, described the scene as the dolphins "having a big party." 

The Monterey Bay area is known for its deep waters and nutrient-rich environment, providing an ideal habitat for marine life, including Risso's dolphins. The region's underwater canyons allow these deep-diving dolphins to approach closer to shore than usual. While not unprecedented, sightings of such large super pods are uncommon, making this event a significant observation for marine biologists. 

The team exercised caution to avoid disturbing the dolphins, maintaining a steady course and speed as the animals interacted with the boat. Reflecting on the experience, Captain Brodsky expressed his amazement, stating, "It just blows my mind every time. It never gets old." 

This encounter provides valuable insights into the social behaviors of Risso's dolphins and highlights the rich biodiversity present in California's coastal waters.