Matt Ryan, WJLK-FM (Toms River, NJ) Journalist Profile

Articles

Before You Board: What You Can’t Bring on the Bus in NJ

1 week ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

When you’re getting ready for a long bus ride, you want to bring a few comforts from home. Maybe a snack, your headphones, and something to keep you busy. But before you start packing everything in sight, there’s something important to know: not everything is allowed onboard here in the tri-state area. Some items are banned for obvious reasons. But it’s not always about something being “dangerous.” Sometimes it’s about space, noise, or just keeping the peace with a bus full of strangers.
Freehold Raceway Mall Announces Expansion With 5 New Additions

1 week ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

Some believe that malls are fading away, and for some, this is indeed true. There is, however, one New Jersey mall that is thriving. In fact, more people are shopping now than decades ago. So, what's the secret? While other malls in Jersey and beyond are giving up as shopping habits change, Freehold Raceway Mall remains committed to the community and its customers. They let the area know that the mall is still a great place to browse and enjoy a meal.
Swimming Warning Issued for NJ Beaches After Bacteria Spike

1 week ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

We are unofficially into summertime at the Jersey Shore. Many are looking to hit the sandy beaches and dive into the ocean waves. But before you pack up the cooler, you might want to check the water quality. While the water may look inviting, appearances can be deceiving. Recent tests have shown elevated levels of Enterococci bacteria in certain areas. These bacteria often originate from human and animal waste. This is nasty stuff, but it's worth educating yourself.
People Are Lining Up to Stay at These Haunted Hotels in New Jersey

1 week ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

Maybe it’s the creaky floors, the dim lighting, or just the feeling that someone’s watching when no one’s around. Across New Jersey, there are historic hotels with stories that go way beyond late checkouts and complimentary breakfast. These aren’t just places where people claim to have heard a bump in the night. Some guests swear they’ve seen figures at the end of long hallways or heard footsteps on staircases that lead to nowhere.
NJ Pizza Chain Closes After 40 Years-Is This the Start of Trend?

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

Another day, another chain restaurant with its lights off and the parking lot empty. In New Jersey and beyond, it’s starting to feel like this is happening more and more. There’s a bunch of stuff hitting them all at once. First, everything costs more now: ingredients, packaging, rent, you name it. On top of that, hiring good staff has been super tough. Some spots can’t find enough people to cook, clean, or keep the doors open seven days a week.
U.S. Issues Travel Warning for European Country Ahead of Summer

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

Traveling overseas always sounds like a dream with new places to explore, amazing food, and that feeling of being completely out of your routine. But before you pack your bags and start planning that picture-perfect vacation, there’s something you might want to keep in mind. Lately, travelers have been urged to be a little more cautious in certain parts of Europe. Nothing too wild, but enough for officials to put out an advisory. It’s one of those “just so you know” things.
NJ Sweet Shop Nominated as One of the Best Chocolates in America

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

There’s something about great chocolate that just makes everything better. Whether it’s a square of dark chocolate or a gooey truffle on a bad day, the right bite can turn your whole mood around. But not all chocolate is created equal. If you know what to look for, New Jersey happens to be a sweet spot for finding it. Let’s start with the basics. You should be able to taste more than just sugar. The texture should be smooth and creamy, whether it’s milk, dark, or white.
These Top Grocery Chains Are Missing from Most of New Jersey

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

What makes a grocery store popular? It’s not just about low prices or how many aisles it has. It’s about how a place makes you feel when you walk through the doors. A truly popular grocery store finds a way to make the weekly food run feel less like a chore and more like something you actually enjoy doing. People love stores that are easy to get in and out of. Good parking, smart layout, and quick checkout lines make a big difference.
Urgent Hiking Safety Alert for Trails in NJ, NY, and PA

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

There’s something about hiking in the tri-state that just feels right. Maybe it’s how the scenery changes so quickly, from sandy paths near the shore to rugged forest trails deeper inland. You don’t have to go far to find a trail that clears your mind and makes you forget the stress of daily life. That's why we live here, right? In New Jersey, you’ve got a little bit of everything. The Pine Barrens are peaceful and flat, perfect for an easy walk surrounded by nature.
USPS Sends Out Important Alert to NJ Homeowners About Mailbox Safety

2 weeks ago | 943thepoint.com | Matt Ryan

It’s one of those things that most people drive by every day and never really think about. It just sits there, maybe a little tilted, maybe the paint’s chipped, maybe it’s seen better days. But at some point, someone will probably walk by and think, "That’s a sad little mailbox.”In New Jersey, where the seasons are not exactly gentle, these things take a beating. Snow piles up, salt sprays off the roads, and before you know it, your once sturdy box is leaning like it’s had a long night.