Winter

While we enjoyed some record warmth last week at the Shore, colder weather is coming soon and after all the Holiday rush is over and the New Year is rung in, what is there to do around Ocean County?

Federal forecasters say it could go either way this winter here in New Jersey: mild or harsh, snowy or dry.

Winter may slowly be retreating, but there's one threat that still looms.

As New Jerseyans brace for another winter storm Wednesday night. Gov. Chris Christie might be forecasting a milder winter next year. The governor's fiscal year 2016 $33.8 billion budget proposal calls for slashing the funding for snow removal by $44 million, a nearly 50 percent reduction.

Another harsh winter is having an impact on what we buy and when. It's helping some businesses but hurting others.

The holidays are long gone, the Super Bowl is over and we've got at least six more weeks of cold, gloomy weather to look forward to -- including more snow possible early next week.

If your car could talk, it would probably tell you it hates winter. The roads are unforgiving this time of year, and for you, that could mean more money devoted to the repair shop.

The snowy and very cold winter has put somewhat of a freeze on economic activity, but the effects shouldn't hurt most businesses in the long run. Once New Jersey and the rest of the nation begin to thaw, it's expected many affected businesses will see some of their losses recovered.

Take your time this morning and allow plenty of extra time , if you must head out ....

Today's late winter storm event is being felt around New Jersey with high winds, power outages for thousands, coastal floods and airport delays along with voluntary evacuations.

I am a summer lover. I'd much rather be hot than cold, and I'd much rather be outside than inside. Welcome to my least favorite time of the year.

Winter might seem far away, but now is the time to prepare!  Check out Marianne's Helpful Hints to get ready!  Before the temperature drops, be sure to do the following things: