The Daily Squirrel

  National News - Weekly News  California in Crisis—Wildfires, Water, and Leadership Under Fire As California grapples with one of the most devastating wildfire seasons in its history, the state finds itself embroiled in debates over water management, infrastructure failures, and political accountability. With multiple fires raging across Southern California—some dangerously close to the San Fernando Valley and San Bernardino—questions about preparedness and leadership loom large. The Devastation in Numbers The 2025 fire season has left an indelible mark: - Over 500,000 acres burned statewide. - At least 50 confirmed fatalities, with dozens more missing. - Thousands of homes and businesses destroyed, with Pacific Palisades and Malibu among the hardest-hit areas. - Estimated damages exceeding $15 billion, with recovery efforts projected to take years. Water Wars: The Resnick Controversy Billionaires Stewart and Lynda Resnick, owners of the Wonderful Company, have come under ren...

  Deep Digs - NJ news  Sean Spiller—A Union Man’s Ascent and Montclair’s Controversial Legacy Sean Spiller, Montclair’s former mayor and the current president of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), is making a high-profile run for governor in 2025. His political career, however, is far from a straightforward climb. With allegations of conflicts of interest, costly legal controversies, and questions about union-backed governance, Spiller's track record invites scrutiny as he campaigns for statewide office. A Rocky Start: From BoSE to Mayor Spiller’s political rise began with controversy in 2016 when he was removed from Montclair’s Board of School Estimate (BoSE). A Superior Court ruling determined that his dual role as NJEA treasurer created an “undeniable conflict of interest” in approving school budgets that directly benefited the union. While this decision sidelined Spiller in one capacity, it didn’t stop him from pursuing greater political ambitions. In 2020, Spill...

  State Briefing - NJ News  Unidentified Drones: A Statewide Concern Since mid-November 2024, residents have reported large drones—some described as the size of small SUVs—hovering over various parts of New Jersey. The initial sightings began near Morris County and have since expanded to multiple counties, including areas near Bedminster, the location of President-elect Donald Trump's golf course. Despite extensive investigations by federal and state authorities, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, the origins and purposes of these drones remain unknown. Officials have stated there is no evidence of malicious intent or foreign involvement. State officials, including Governor Phil Murphy, have expressed concern over the lack of transparency and information. Governor Murphy stated, "The safety and privacy of our residents are paramount. We are working closely with federal agencies to get to the bottom of these mysterious sightings." Additionally, Presiden...

  Montclair’s Council Drama—Power, Profanity, and Paychecks Montclair’s December 18, 2024, council meeting was meant to address the routine but critical business of appointing a new township attorney. Instead, it became a lightning rod for controversy when First Ward Councilor Erik D’Amato allegedly directed multiple expletives at Mayor Renee Baskerville and Fourth Ward Councilor Aminah Toler during a closed session. This contentious exchange has since fueled calls for D’Amato’s resignation and exposed deeper tensions within the council and the community. A Tale of Two Attorneys: Burr vs. Garcia At the heart of the heated session was the council’s discussion over replacing outgoing township attorney Paul Burr with Joseph Garcia as interim township attorney. Burr, known for his extensive experience and recognition as a top Essex County lawyer, had no specific cap on his work hours and likely commanded a higher overall salary during his tenure. In contrast, Garcia’s appointment broug...

  Monday Briefings - Weekly News  Local News: A Heated Debate in Montclair Montclair’s council chambers recently became the center of controversy when Councilor Erik D’Amato directed an expletive at Mayor Renee Baskerville during a closed session meeting. The fallout has sparked outrage, with residents calling for his resignation and highlighting the racial dynamics at play.   The Acorn of the Day There’s a fine line between freedom of speech and being offended. Invoking race in this situation, without evidence it was a factor, risks diluting legitimate discussions about racism. Let’s address disrespect where it’s due, but avoid making assumptions that detract from the core issue. State News: Drones Over New Jersey and Sean Spiller’s Gubernatorial Bid Unexplained drones hovering over neighborhoods have New Jersey residents questioning privacy and security. Meanwhile, Sean Spiller, the former mayor of Montclair and current NJEA president, has announced his campaign for gov...