New Jersey's Top 5: Our Most Popular Facebook Stories This Week

Amongst the Amber Alerts, multiple near abductions and drug sweeps, there was plenty of breaking news to make anyone's head spin. After the dust settled, here's what our Patch readers were sharing and talking about on Facebook for the week of February 20.

Long Valley Girl Competes On Chopped Jr.

Long Valley resident Olivia Acosta will appear on Food Network's Chopped Jr. on March 8. Olivia, age 9, is participating in the first of a four part competition to be chosen as a kid judge.

K9s, Handlers Sweep Manchester High School For Drugs: Authorities

In efforts to ensure a drug-free zone, 5 K9 officers and their handlers visited Manchester Township High School on Wednesday. The search was the latest in the regular visits to Ocean County high schools conducted by law enforcement, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

White Van Approaching Kids at Bus Stops in East Brunswick, Police Say

Two incidents of a suspicious white van approaching children at bus stops were reported to East Brunswick police earlier this week. The van could only be described as a white work van with no visible markings and possibly a NJ registration. Any witnesses are being asked to contact police immediately.

Morristown Medical Center Named One Of America's 50 Best Hospitals

Morristown Medical Center has been named one of America's 50 best hospitals by Healthgrades for the second year in a row- the only New Jersey center to do so. Morristown Medical Center opened in 1982 and ranks in the top 1 percent of hospitals for clinical performance nationwide.

Police Release Sketch Of Suspect In Near Abduction In Gloucester Township

Earlier this week a Gloucester Township woman was nearly abducted as she stood outside her home smoking a cigarette, according to police. The man attempted to pull the woman into his vehicle (described as a newer model white SUV). As she screamed, he let her go and family members came outside. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Gloucester Township Police Anonymous Crime Tipline.

Image via Food Network