Category: Allentown

Aberdeen, Allentown, Allentown, Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Brielle, Eatontown, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold, Hazlet, Highlands, Holmdel, Howell, Keansburg, Keyport, Lincroft, Little Silver, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Matawan, Middletown, Millstone, Monmouth County, Neptune, Ocean, Oceanport, Red Bank, Roosevelt, Roosevelt, Rumson, Union Beach, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, Wall

Vote-By-Mail Drop Box Arrives In Allentown

September 22, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Allentown resident told MidJersey.News that around 11 pm last night a delivery crew installed a Vote-By-Mail Drop Box in front of Allentown at Borough Hall on Main Street. There are currently 17 Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County, this is the furthest west serving Western Monmouth County.

A current list of Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County can be found here.

Vote-By-Mail Drop Box Locations

Pursuant to State law, the November 3, 2020 General Election will be conducted primarily by Mail-In Ballot in New Jersey.

If you wish to place your Mail-In Ballot in a secure drop box, below are the locations throughout the County which will be available starting the week of September 15. Addresses in the list below are clickable and will bring up Google Maps.

Voters can drop their voted Mail-In Ballot into these Board of Elections Drop Boxes anywhere in the County up until 8 p.m. on November 3, 2020. You do not have to be a resident of the town where the drop box is located. Be advised that these drop boxes are under video surveillance and are monitored by the Monmouth County Board of Elections, which can be reached at 732-431-7802.

For more information about the General Election process, click here.

LocationAddressEntry
1Aberdeen Municipal Building1 Aberdeen Square
Aberdeen, NJ 07747
2Allentown Borough Hall8 North Main Street
Allentown, NJ 08501
3Asbury Park City Hall1 Municipal Plaza
Asbury Park, NJ 07712		City Council Chambers (Bangs Avenue Entrance)
4Borough of Belmar Municipal Building601 Main Street
Belmar, NJ 07719
5Eatontown Borough Municipal Building47 Broad Street
Eatontown, NJ 07724		Rear Entrance
6Board of Elections Office300 Halls Mill Road
Freehold, NJ 07728		Side Entrance
7Hazlet Agency – NJ Motor Vehicle Commission1374 Highway 36
Hazlet, NJ 07730		Airport Plaza
8Howell Township Municipal Building4567 Route 9 North
Howell, NJ 07731		Rear Entrance
9Long Branch City Hall344 Broadway
Long Branch, NJ 07740
10Manalapan Township Municipal Building120 County Road 522
Manalapan, NJ 07726
11Middletown Municipal Building1 Kings Highway
Middletown Township, NJ 07748
12Croydon Hall900 Leonardville Road
Leonardo, NJ 07737
13Neptune Township Municipal Building25 Neptune Boulevard
Neptune, NJ 07753		Library Entrance
14Ocean Township Town Hall399 Monmouth Road
Oakhurst, NJ 07755
15Red Bank Borough Municipal Building90 Monmouth Street
Red Bank, NJ 07701
16Rumson Borough Hall80 East River Road
Rumson, NJ 07760
17Wall Township Municipal Building2700 Allaire Road
Wall, NJ 07719
Allentown Borough Hall Vote-By-Mail Drop Box arrived at 11 pm last night.
Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

Allentown, NJ Police Capture Man Wanted For 4th Degree Sexual Assault In Michigan

September 12, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–On September 3rd, 2020 around 3:05 PM, Ptl. Daniel Dascoli #8232 was on patrol in the area of Allentown-Yardville Road. While on patrol, Ptl. Dascoli observed a red Mazda with several motor vehicle violations driving down Allentown-Yardville Road.

After initiating a motor vehicle stop in this area, Ptl. Dascoli through investigation discovered that the driver, who is identified as Edwin Y. Sackie Jr, maintained an active Fourth Degree Sexual Assault warrant out of the state of Michigan. This warrant stated that it was Full Extradition from the state of Michigan.

Ptl. Dascoli spoke to authorities in Michigan who confirmed the warrant. Edwin Y. Sackie Jr. was placed under arrest and later transported to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution in Freehold without incident.

*** The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. ***

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

TAVI hosts “The Great Allentown Scavenger Hunt” in August.

August 7, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–TAVI hosts “The Great Allentown Scavenger Hunt” in August.

Join in the fun of TAVI’s Great Allentown Scavenger Hunt by sending an email with your name, address, and number of participants to dwinknj@aol.com.  Once your email is received you will be registered as a participant and will receive clues and instructions on how to complete the hunt.   Register before August 30, 2020.  The Great Allentown Scavenger Hunt ends at midnight on August 31, 2020.  Everyone who finds all 29 sites and emails us back (as explained in the instructions you will receive when you register) will be entered into our prize drawing. 

Participation is FREE!  We are very grateful for any donation to support this and other TAVI projects for our community.

Visit The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI) website here

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Allentown Fall Festival 2020 Canceled Due To COVID-19 Concerns Will Return In 2021

August 5, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Allentown Business Community Association has posted a notice on Facebook that the 2020 Fall Festival also known as the “Harvest Festival” is canceled this year due to COVID-19 concerns. See below:

THE 2020 HARVEST FESTIVAL IS OFFICIALLY CANCELLED.

After 35 consecutive years, the Allentown NJ Fall Harvest Festival will not be held this fall. The cancellation is due to the NJ statewide shut down. Our upmost concerns are for the safety of our community, our attendees and our businesses. We hope to see everyone again next year. Thank you and be safe.

Prints and cards at available at Dragonfly Design Studio 6 Church Street Allentown, NJ
Allentown, Allentown, Bordentown Twp, Burlington, East Windsor, East Windsor, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Jackson, Lakehurst, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, New Hanover, North Hanover, Ocean County, Plumsted, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Roosevelt, South Brunswick, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, West Windsor

Tropical Storm Isaias Update

Yesterday’s MidJersey.News coverage here: Tropical Storm Isaias Hits Area

August 5, 2020

PSE&G Reports 9,3958 power outages with 292,052 customers affected as of 12:30 pm

JCP&L Reports 527,305 customers affected at of 12:30 pm

Atlantic City Electric reports 4,448 active outages with 64,761 customers affected as of 12:30 pm

JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Governor Phil Murphy visited Jackson Township this morning to assess damage from Tropical Storm Isaias with Senator Sam Thompson, Ocean County Freeholder Director Joe Vicari, and Mayor Mike Reina. Government officials are continuing to work closely with the utilities to get the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible.

MidJersey.News has been monitoring fire department, police and EMS activity and fire departments from our area have been sent to several locations overnight and this morning for carbon monoxide issues dealing with generators too close to the house or running in a garage. Please use these appliances properly, keep them far away from the home, and also make sure you have batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors and verify they are working.

Upper Freehold and Allentown, Message from Hope Fire Company:

Good Morning. We realize that some will be without power for a few days. HFC will be opening it’s doors for anyone that is in need of charging devices from now until 4pm. We do have charging stations setup in our meeting room for your convenience. We ask that you please wear masks when coming into our facility and, to practice social distancing measures, we will be allowing up to 10 people in at a time. Also, we do have bagged ice that we can give you (2 bags per person) and should you need to use our showering facilities, that area is open as well. Non-potable water will be available so please, bring your buckets or containers. Again, masks are required and you must be symptom free to enter the building. Should you have any questions you can email me at president@hopefirecompany.com or reach out to me directly at 609-556-9764.

North Hanover, Jackobstown:

We have put the hose out for residents to get water if needed. While clean water direct from our well we don’t recommend it for drinking but if you need to flush a toilet it will work. Bring your own container. The station is closed to members only at this time, please do not enter the station for any reason. Thank you

86 Chesterfield Jacobstown Rd (10.50 mi)
Wrightstown, NJ 08562

There are still numerous roads closed, trees and wires down please avoid those areas and do not go around cones or barricades. Stay far away from any wires because you will not know if they are live or energized, leave that up to the professionals to determine.

Water and Ice available for JCP&L customers:

Water and Ice Locations

Water and Ice Available to JCP&L Customers

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) is restoring service to customers who lost power due to Tropical Storm Isaias. JCP&L is offering free water and ice to customers remaining out of service. Customers can pick up water and ice at the following locations:

(Last updated 8/5/2020)

BURLINGTON COUNTY

  • Acme Supermarkets, 18 Broadway Rd. Store 7908, Browns Mills

ESSEX COUNTY

  • Shop Rite of Millburn, 220 Main Street, Millburn, Essex County
  • Kings, 778 Morris Tpke, Short Hills, Essex County

HUNTERDON COUNTY

  • Shop Rite of Hunterdon, 50 Rte 513 BLDG D, Clinton, Hunterdon County
  • Shop Rite of Hunterdon272 Rt. 202 & Rt. 31, Flemington, Hunterdon County
  • Kings, 531 U.S. Hwy. 22 East, Whitehouse Station, Hunterdon County

MERCER COUNTY

  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 319 Rt 130N, East Windsor
  • Shop Rite – Pennington, 2555 Pennington Rd, Pennington

MIDDLESEX COUNTY

  • Acme Supermarkets, 3505 Route 9, Old Bridge
  • Saker Shop Rites, Inc., 2909 Washington Rd., Parlin

MONMOUTH COUNTY

  • Acme Supermarkets, 576 River Rd., Store 7949, Fair Haven
  • Acme Supermarkets, 3241 Route 9, Store 7960, Freehold
  • Acme Supermarkets, 990 Shrewsbury Ave., Tinton Falls
  • Acme Supermarkets, 2007 Route 35, Wall
  • Food Circus (a/k/a Foodtown), 1560 Rt 35, Store 269, Ocean Twp
  • Food Circus (a/k/a Foodtown), 2204 Rt 35 & Sea Girt Ave, Store 268, Sea Girt
  • Food Circus (a/k/a Foodtown), 9 Rt.  36, Bayshore Plaza, Store 266, Atlantic Highlands
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 3585 Hwy 9, Freehold
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 280 Hwy 9 N, Morganville
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 2200 Asbury Ave., Neptune 07753
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., Routes 36 & 71, West Long Branch 07764
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 1151 Shrewsbury Ave., Shrewsbury 07722
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 4594 Rt 9 S, Howell 07731
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 2445 Rt 34, Wall  07719
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 1801 Route 35, Wall Twp.
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 318 Lloyd Rd., Aberdeen
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 3140 State Hwy 35, Hazlet 07730

MORRIS COUNTY

  • ACME, 550 Myrtle Ave., Boonton
  • ACME, 329 Speedwell Ave, Morris Plains, Morris County
  • ACME Oak Ridge, 5774 Berkshire Valley Road, Oak Ridge
  • ACME, 690 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph
  • ACME, 123 E Main St Suite 1, Denville
  • Kings, 115 Hawkins Place, Boonton
  • Kings, 88 East Main St, Mendham
  • Kings, 393 Main Street, Chatham, Morris County
  • Kings, 977 Valley Rd, Gillette, Morris County
  • Kings, 191 South Street, Morristown, Morris County
  • Kings, 184 Columbia Tpk., Florham Park, Morris County
  • Kings, 191 South Street, Morristown, Morris County
  • Shop Rite of Morris, 1711 Routes 10 (& 202), Morris Plains
  • Shop Rite of Chatham, 641 Shunpike Rd / Southern Blvd, Chatham
  • Shop Rite of Chester, 195 Route 206 South, Chester
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 90 Bartley Rd Flanders, Flanders
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 75 US 46 Netcong
  • Shop Rite , 437 Rt 46, Rockaway
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 281-021 Rt 10, Succasunna
  • Shop Rite, 1153 Valley Road, Stirling, Morris County
  • Shop Rite, 314 Rt 15, Wharton

OCEAN COUNTY

  • Acme Supermarkets, Route 35 & Washington, Ortley Beach/Seaside Heights           
  • Perlmart Shop Rite 427, 429 Atl City Blvd., Store 663 Bayville
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc. 668 Rt 70, Brick 08723
  • Perlmart Shop Rite, 328 Route 9, (Lacey) Store 655, Lanoka Harbor
  • Perlmart Shop Rite, 1001Rt 70W, (Manchester) Store 659, Manchester
  • Perlmart Shop Rite, 260 County Line Rd., Store 661, Jackson
  • Perlmart Shop Rite, 860 Fischer Blvd, Store 656, Toms River
  • Perlmart Shop Rite, 100 Town Center Bldg 9, Store 665, Waretown
  • Saker ShopRites, Inc., 2 Rt 37 West, Toms River 08753

SOMERSET COUNTY

  • Kings, 450 Rt. 206N & Hills Dr., Bedminster
  • Saker Shop Rite -Branchburg, 3166 Rt 22, Somerville
  • Shop Rite of Bernardsville, 93 Morristown Rd (Rt 202), Bernardsville
  • Kings, 100 Morristown Rd., Bernardsville
  • Kings, 64 Mt. Blvd Brady Shopping Center, Warren

SUSSEX COUNTY

  • ACME Vernon, 530 Route 515, Vernon, Sussex County
  • ACME Sussex, 455 Route 23 North, Byram, Sussex, Sussex County
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 90-80 Rt 206 N Byram NJ, Sussex County
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 270 Rt 23 N Franklin NJ, Sussex County
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 125 Water St. Newton, Sussex

UNION COUNTY

  • ACME, 1260 Springfield Avenue, New Providence, Union County
  • Shop Rite of Springfield, 727 Morris Tpke, Springfield, Union
  • Kings, 784 Springfield Ave, Summit, Union County

WARREN COUNTY

  • ACME Blairstown, 152 Route 94, Blairstown,
  • Shop Rite – Ronetco, 1965 Rt 57 Hackettstown NJ
  • Shop Rite of Hunterdon, 1207 Rt. 22, Phillipsburg (Greenwich Store)
  • Shop Rite of Washington, 2 Clubhouse Dr @ Route 31, Washington

Photos provided by NJ Governor’s Office
Allentown, Allentown, Burlington, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown-East Windsor, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Millstone, Monmouth County, Ocean County, Other Towns, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, South Brunswick, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, West Windsor

Tropical Storm Isaias Hits Area

August 4, 2020

PSE&G Reports 4,568 power outages with 265,283 customers affected as of 1:30 pm

JCP&L Reports 552,736 customers affected at of 1:30 pm

The winds from Tropical Storm Isaias have created problems with trees and wires throughout every town in the area, do not travel unless necessary.

Roads closed, multiple Power outages, blown transformers, live wires burning, trees and debris in the roadway with multitude of other problems are some of the things first responders are dealing with at this hour.

Emergency Management and Police Departments remind that 9-1-1 is for emergency use only. Restrict travel due to many trees, wires and debris in roadways and do not cross barricades.

Millstone Township reports: All residents should shelter in place. Many trees down throughout the Township and many roads are closed. Windsor Road/Perrinville; Rochdale Ave ; Rising Sun Tavern ; Agress Road/Bittner Road; Bittner Road/Millstone Road; Backbone Hill Road/Schoolhouse to White Birch; Sweetmans Lane near Stillhouse Rd; Mercy Mount Rd; Bessie Court.

  • Robbinsville Gordon Road Tree On Wires
  • Robbinsville Gordon Road Tree On Wires
  • Hamilton Township Edgebrook Road
  • Hamilton: Wires on fire Yardville-Allentown Road
  • Hamilton: Wires on fire Yardville-Allentown Road
  • Threatening skies by the Hamilton Post Office, Route 130
  • Threatening skies by Hamilton Marketplace
  • Merrick Road closed by Edgebrook low hanging trees with wires
  • Hamilton Township Merrick Road by Edgebrook low branches with wires
  • Allentown, NJ wires down
  • Allentown, NJ tree blocking North Main passable in shoulder
  • Allentown, NJ tree blocking North Main Street passable in shoulder

Governor Murphy and Colonel Callahan Advise New Jerseyans to Prepare for Hurricane Isaias

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy and Colonel Patrick Callahan today advised New Jerseyans to prepare for the impact of Hurricane Isaias. Additionally, a tornado watch has been issued throughout the state. The Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the conditions of the hurricane and are working with counties to address any storm-related needs.“As Hurricane Isaias continues to move throughout our state, we encourage all residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and secure,” said Governor Murphy. “Our main concern is public safety, and our emergency response team is prepared to help New Jerseyans with any needed assistance during this time.”New Jersey State Police Superintendent and State Director of Emergency Management Colonel Patrick Callahan stressed the importance of connecting the public with reliable information sources to further assist them in their individual preparedness plans.“Events such as Superstorm Sandy have taught us that awareness and preparedness saves lives. We encourage everyone to stay connected and be prepared,” said Colonel Callahan. “Make time with your family to build a kit, a go-bag, and create a communication plan. Tune in, log-on, opt-in, ‘like’ or ‘follow’ state, county, local and federal agencies for credible disaster-related information such as alerts and warnings; situational awareness updates; and where to find help. Personal connections matter, too. After you’ve completed your household preparedness activities, be a good neighbor and lend a hand to someone who may need assistance.”A list of New Jersey’s County Offices of Emergency Management, with social media and local alert system links, may be found on our newly redesigned New Jersey Office of Emergency Management Website: www.ready.nj.gov.NJOEM also recommends specific emergency preparedness actions:Make an emergency kit: Emergency kits will allow individuals and families to survive several days without access to food, water or electricity. Emergency kits should include at least a three to five day supply of non-perishable food and water, prescription medications for up to two weeks if available, baby supplies, pet supplies and any additional items for special medical needs such as an extra pair of eye glasses and batteries for hearing aids. Your kit should also include important phone numbers for doctors as well as car cell-phone chargers. While gathering your emergency kit, pack a go-bag for your family as well. Your family go-bag should be something such as a duffle bag or gym bag that is easily accessible so you can grab it and go in the event that a firefighter or police officer knocks on your door and tells you to evacuate immediately. These bags should include items such as prescription medication, food, water, extra clothing, and copies of important documents and phone numbers to get you through the first few critical days. For information on how to put a family emergency kit together, visit www.ready.nj.gov. Make an emergency plan. Make plans with family and friends in case you’re not together when any type of emergency – natural, technological or man-made – occurs. Discuss how you will contact each other, where you will meet and what you will do in different situations. Become familiar with your town’s evacuation routes. For information on how to put a family emergency plan together, visit www.ready.nj.gov. Pets are family too! Be sure to include them in your emergency plans by visiting www.animalemergency.nj.gov. 

Download the NJ Hurricane Survival Guide: https://www.nj.gov/njoem/plan-prepare/hurricanes.shtml Download the NJ Tornado Survival Guide: http://ready.nj.gov/plan-prepare/tornadoes.shtml

Stay informed: NJOEM recommends the following ways to stay informed about emergencies:

Online: Use credible websites to get information about natural hazards and emergency preparedness. NJOEM works closely with the National Weather Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding forecasts and other important disaster news.

  • National Weather Service NJ is covered by two different weather stations: Mount Holly, NJ for most of the State and Upton, NY for the NE part of the State. For Northeast NJ residents and commuters to/from New York City, please visit: www.weather.gov/okx/. For the rest of New Jersey please visit: www.weather.gov/phi/.
  • National Hurricane Center – www.nhc.noaa.gov
  • NJOEM – www.ready.nj.gov
  • NJ Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness: www.njhomelandsecurity.gov
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emergency Preparedness Page: http://emergency.cdc.gov/
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.fema.gov
  • Register Ready: www.RegisterReady.nj.gov – New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters allows NJ residents with disabilities or access and functional needs and their families, friends and associates an opportunity to provide information to emergency response agencies, so emergency responders can better plan to serve them in a disaster or other emergency. The information collected here is confidential and will not be available to the public. The information will be held securely and only used for emergency response and planning.

Social Media:

Alerts – Mobile / Text (SMS) & E-Mail:

  • NIXLE – Subscribe to the NJ State Police (NJSP) on Nixle Connect at http://local.nixle.com/new-jersey-state-police/. New Jersey residents can register to receive messages by sending a text message with their zip code to 888777 (data rates may apply depending on your plan). Online registration is also available at www.nixle.com
  • CMAS – the Community Mobile Alert System – this nationwide system is now being used the National Weather Service to transmit urgent weather info to your cell phone. A warning means the hazard is imminent; a watch means conditions are favorable for the hazard to occur. Your cell phone must be WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) enabled to receive these messages.

NOAA Weather Radio: A nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service Office. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NOAA Weather Radios are typically inexpensive, readily available in stores and can often be programmed for your specific area. http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/

Allentown, Allentown, Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

See Comet Neowise Before Its Gone

July 14, 2020

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A newly discovered comet that was found on March 27, 2020 called comet Neowise can bee seen just after dusk and the early morning hours for the next few days. The next time you’ll be able to see comet Neowise will be 6,766 years from now so you might want to get a look at it tonight just after dark.

If viewing it is best to use a application such as “Star Walk 2” to help find the elevation and area in the sky to look. Just after dark it can be seen in the north west sky and in the early morning hours it can be seen in the north east sky.

Tonight look north west about an hour after sunset and you’ll have about an hour to see it before it dips below the horizon at 11:25 pm. The comet will rise in the north east around 2:54 am and can be seen until about an hour before sunrise but as the sun rises the view of the comet fades quickly so earlier the better.

If viewing bring binoculars, spotting scope or telescope for the best view. For the next few days you can see it with the naked eye after that you will need optical assistance.

If photographing suggested items would be:

  1. Tripod
  2. Lens 300 mm or longer.
  3. Shutter release or use timer in camera so you do not get shake.
  4. Manual focus on comet or other distant object and hyper focus in “live view” zoomed in if you have that option.
  5. Shut off image stabilizer (if camera has it) to prevent a shake effect.

You will also need to find an area with a large field with a clear view to the north west sky for after sunset and a north east view for before sunrise. Take many different exposures and bracket in “manual mode” to make sure you get the exposure correct.

The comet can be seen all over the country in the night sky. The images below were taken in Upper Freehold Township near the border of Robbinsville Township.

Comet Neowise as seen early morning hours of July 14, 2020
Allentown, Allentown, Graduation, High School, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Special Events, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Allentown High School Class of 2020

July 9, 2020

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–After a long wait for outdoor graduations due to the COVID-19 pandemic Allentown High School’s Class of 2020 was able to have a full commencement this afternoon. This was Allentown High Schools Ninety-Fifth commencement.

The ceremony was held outdoors at Arm & Hammer Waterfront Park due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Photo gallery:

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

Traffic Alert: Gas Line Struck In Allentown

June 22, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Construction crews on North Main Street stuck a gas line around 2:15 pm. Hope Fire Company and Hamilton Township Fire Department Station 19 responded to the scene. The roadway is closed waiting for PSE&G to shut off the gas line to control the leak.

Hope Fire Company and Allentown Police have the North Main Street closed from Waker Ave to Broad Street and directing a detour in the area until the gas leak is controlled. The gas company usually responds within an hour so the roadway should not be closed for long.

https://www.facebook.com/Hfc821
Allentown, Allentown, High School, Monmouth County, Special Events

Allentown High School In-Person Graduation July 9, 2020 At Arm & Hammer Park

June 9, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Upper Freehold Regional Schools released that there will be a in-person graduation this year at Arm & Hammer Park, Trenton Thunder baseball stadium on July 9, 2020. See below:

Great news shared by Mrs. Embley for our Seniors!

Dear Senior Parents,

We are excited to announce that we plan to hold our in-person graduation on Thursday, July 9th at 4:00 PM at the ARM & HAMMER Park on the Trenton Thunder Baseball Field. At this time, we are expecting to be able to hold just one ceremony including all our 2020 graduates. Seating will be limited and all social distancing protocols will be in place. We are in the early planning stages and do not have more information to share at this time.

Please remember, at any time the Governor can revoke our abilty to hold an in-person ceremony and/or greatly limit the number of people who can attend.

We are very hopeful this will work out and be a great send-off for our graduates. As soon as I have more information, I will let you know.

https://www.facebook.com/UFRSD/

Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

Allentown 10 Year Old Raises $2,500 For Food Pantry For His Birthday

June 8, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–For his 10th Birthday, Allentown Borough resident and Newell School 4th grader Finn Piparo wanted to give back to his local community. With the assistance of his Aunt Barb and parents, Finn was able to raise $2,500., which he then used to purchase food, gift cards and reusable shopping bags for the Allentown Food Pantry. Finn was shocked at the generosity of family and friends, as his original goal of raising $1,000. was broke in just 2 days.

On Saturday Finn and his family loaded all of the food, and were joined at the Food Pantry by Mayor Fritts and the staff . Everyone pitched in to help fill the shelves. Finn act of kindness on his birthday will help countless area residents in need. Everyone involved with his birthday fundraiser learned valuable lessons from Finn about giving back and doing more for others.

ADVERTISEMENT: Washington Wellness Center, Robbinsville NJ https://washingtonwellnesscenter.com/

ADVERTISEMENT: Washington Wellness Center, Robbinsville NJ https://washingtonwellnesscenter.com/
  • Allentown Borough resident and Newell School 4th grader Finn Piparo
Allentown, Allentown, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

Allentown High School, Class Of 2020, Senior Parade

June 6, 2020

ALLENTOWN-UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–This evening a Senior Class Car Procession was held from 5 to 7 pm to celebrate the Allentown High School Class of 2020. Tonight would have been Allentown’s Prom but since the covid-19 pandemic that was canceled.

The Seniors were be led by the New Jersey State police, DJ Nebbs Entertainment and Hope Fire Company also assisted with traffic control around the township.

    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

    High Winds From Thunderstorm Toss Visitors Bleachers At Allentown HS

    June 3, 2020

    ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A thunderstorm ripped though the area with high winds this afternoon leaving trees and wires down. Several homes were damaged by falling trees and power lines down closed roadways.

    At Allentown High School the visitor bleachers were tossed into the middle of the football field. One parent on scene late this afternoon stated just a few hours ago his daughter walked across a stage for a graduation ceremony on the same field.

    Upper Freehold Regional Schools Superintendent Mark Guterl said, “Most importantly, no one was hurt.” “We are still assessing the damage, but the wind speeds must have been extreme. These bleachers are heavy.” in an e-mail to one of our reporters.

    North of Allentown our local weather station revived a gust to 34 mph but from the look of the clouds the storm looked worse towards Allentown. Other weather stations in the area: Cream Ridge 57 mph gusts, Columbus, Burlington 67 mph

    Video from 2 miles north of Allentown of the high winds at the time of the storm.
    Allentown, Allentown, Mercer County, Monmouth County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Severe Thunderstorms Moving Through Area

    June 3. 2020

    Severe thunderstorms moving through area take cover. Wires are down, trees down, power is out. Wires may be live do not get near, if down call power company and notify 9-1-1. Stay safe.

    Severe thunderstorms moving through Allentown Robbinsville Upper Freehold area.
    Severe thunderstorms moving in.
    Allentown, Allentown, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Memorial Day In Millstone And Allentown

    May 27, 2020

    MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP AND ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Troopers from the New Jersey State Police Troop C Hamilton attended a small Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veteran’s Memorial in Millstone Township.

    Also Hope Fire Company had a small parade though Allentown in remembrance of Memorial Day.

    Hope Fire Company had a small parade though Allentown in remembrance of Memorial Day.

    Hightstown Memorial Day Services Here as reported earlier

    Allentown, Allentown, Bordentown Twp, Burlington, Burlington City, East Windsor, East Windsor, Ewing, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hightstown, Hightstown-East Windsor, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Monmouth County, New Hanover, Pennington, Princeton, Robbinsville, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, Wrightstown

    Flight Plan For Operation “America Strong” For April 28, 2020 Released

    April 27, 2020

    NAS PENSACOLA, Fla. – The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, and the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with formation flights over New York City, Newark, Trenton and Philadelphia April 28. The flight plans have been released to the public this morning and can be viewed below.

    See previous Stories on the event here:

    Thunderbirds, Blue Angels to Salute New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania COVID-19 Responders Tuesday April 28, 2020

    President Donald J. Trump Announces “Operation America Strong” Thunderbirds and Blue Angels Fly Over Airshows Coming To A City Near You

    Blue Angels and Thunderbird Combined Fly-By Event Is In “Planning Stage” – Will Not Be Today

    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Upper Freehold Accident Causes Power Problems

    April 26, 2020

    UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A vehicle traveling in the 200 Block of Route 526 “Trenton-Lakewood Road” near Rues Road lost control on a wet roadway and crashed into a utility pole. The accident occurred at 1:49 pm and causing the pole to break at the bottom and wires to catch fire at the top of the pole. The surge caused wide area power problems at several locations including Davis Station Road, Rt 524 near TSC, Old York Road and cause a power line to fail and transformer to catch fire on Sharon Station Road near the I-195 bridge.

    Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded for a the accident with the utility pole on fire and the numerous other power issues. Currently Route 526 between Imlaystown Road and Rues is closed for the broken pole and wire fire. Sharon Station Road is closed between Route 524 and Route 526. Luckily no injures were reported in the accident.

    Sharon Station Road is closed between Route 524 and Route 526 near the I-195 bridge for wires down and transformer on fire.
    A vehicle traveling in the 200 Block of Route 526 “Trenton-Lakewood Road” near Rues Road lost control on a wet roadway and crashed into a utility pole.
    Allentown, East Windsor, East Windsor, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hightstown, Hightstown-East Windsor, Mercer County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville

    “Echoing Our Appreciation” to Healthcare Workers & The Front Porch Project

    April 23, 2020

    HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Township Police, Robbinsville Township Police, Hamilton Township Fire Dept., Robbinsville Township Fire Dept., Hope Fire Company, Mercer County Sheriff Officers, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, along with Mayor Jeff Martin, Mayor David Fried and many others came together tonight to honor and show thanks to healthcare workers at RWJ University Hospital at Hamilton.

    A large American Flag hung from Hamilton Township Fire Department’s Truck 17 and police cars surrounded the truck with their lights on. At one point during the event sirens from the emergency vehicles were activated to show appreciation. Almost everyone in attendance cheered, clapped, held a variety of thank you signs for health care workers and many signs read “Heroes work here” The event was held at the evening shift change near the employee entrance. All in attendance were required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing as much as possible.

    Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s President and Chief Executive Officer Richard Freeman said at the event, “I am here representing Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton and all our heroes. On behalf of our heroes who are working every single day taking care of our community, I am so proud of them and this effort that the mayors have put on just shows how much you are appreciated. It is really important to understand that the work you do will always, always be appreciated and well beyond this crisis. You are making a statement that this hospital is here for our families, our friends and our community. So bless you all and you are all heroes.”

    As the event was happening at RWJ Hamilton Hospital the surrounding communities took part in the Front Porch Project to honor health care workers. Even the Robbinsville Township Council got involved prior to their meeting tonight. More on Front Porch Project tomorrow since several photographs and videos were sent to the Hamilton Mayor’s Office and will be shared in another story.

    Drone photos from DJNebbs Entertainment Alex Nebbia
    “Echoing Our Appreciation” to Healthcare Workers at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Hamilton. Photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr.
    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

    The Fence Of Hope

    April 12, 2020

    Happy Easter Everyone

    Photos and story by: Dennis Symons, Jr.

    ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–If you happen to drive by the Allentown Presbyterian Church and notice thousands of bright colored ribbons it is the “Fence Of Hope” a community art instillation for Easter.

    The Fence of Hope at Allentown Presbyterian Church as seen on Easter Sunday April 12, 2020

    This is a much different Easter than we are used to and church services were held online this year due to the COVID-19 situation. An idea was to have a community art instillation for Easter. The art project and community event also had to be “social distancing compliant” with the Governor’s social distancing guidelines.

    Members of the church and community collected bright colored table cloths cut them into ribbons at home and brought them to the fence to be tied. Fifty Five panels were covered in ribbons for the “Fence Of Hope” art instillation. The project was spread out and the community brought the ribbons at different times of the day so there was plenty of space to maintain social distancing rules.

    More about the Fence Of Hope can be found on the Allentown Presbyterian Church website.

    Allentown, Allentown, Belmar, Eatontown, Englishtown, Freehold, Holmdel, Keansburg, Keyport, Manalapan, Matawan, Middletown, Millstone, Monmouth County, Rumson, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    County Freeholders: About Park Closings, COVID-19 and TakeoutInMonmouth.com

    April 9, 2020

    FREEHOLD, NJ – On behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley held a press conference today to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation and additional support that the County will supply the business community.

    “Since the start of the Take Out in Monmouth initiative last week, we have complied well over 750 businesses, which can be found at www.takeoutinmonmouth.com,” said Freeholder Director Arnone, liaison to the Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism. “Today, we are now adding breweries and wineries to this online list to further boost the local economy. These business owners are our friends, neighbors and community leaders and we owe our support to these individuals and their employees during this difficult time.”

    Visit http://takeoutinmounmouth.com https://co.monmouth.nj.us/page.aspx?ID=5029 for further local listings.

    Visit the Screaming Hill Brewery page for barnside pickup. Orders placed the day before will be ready the next day for pickup. Try the “Blood Orange” a midjersey.news favorite.

    Visit Screamin Hill our local farm fresh brewery for barn side pickup. Remember to place order the day before for pickup the next day.

    Heavenly Havens Has Ice Cream Takeout Window:

    LaPiazza Delivers now, you might be lucky enough to have DJ Nebbs deliver for you:

    Together, Monmouth County municipalities, local chambers as well as the County Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism continue to research and identify all food grocers, breweries, wineries and restaurants open. While the County works to maintain an updated list, email TakeOutInMonmouth@visitmonmouth.com to be listed or request a change in listing.

    “As a result of mounting cases and more and more residents becoming increasingly frightened to leave their own home, the Monmouth County Aging Disability Resource Center has prepared the COVID-19 Resource Guide to assist seniors and residents with disabilities who may be struggling to acquire basic needs during this health pandemic,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Kiley, liaison to the Department of Human Services. “The County has been extensively collaborating with local officials and the guide will be frequently updated to reflect the most current services and resources offered by municipality.”

    In addition to Monmouth County ADRC (Aging Disability Resource Center), Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Communities Through Services) has been directing residents to Monmouth Resource Net, an online directory of community and health resources and services, information about residential mortgage relief as well as mental health support.

    The Freeholders also discussed the Executive Order signed on Thursday, April 7 by the Governor, closing all Monmouth County parks indefinitely.

    “I would like to publicly state that I do not support the indefinite closure of all county parks in New Jersey. I also find it unacceptable that we have no input as to when they will reopen. There are a number of options that could have been considered as an alternative to completely closing county parks, including limiting hours, days, et cetera,” said Freeholder Director Arnone. “The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders has felt, throughout this entire pandemic, that our County parks are essential for our residents’ mental health and a great choice for passive recreation. I promise that we will open our parks immediately as soon as the Executive Order is lifted.”

    All public is restricted from parks and golf courses. Park and golf course entrances and parking lots are gated or barricaded and visitors who gain park access by foot or bike will be directed to leave, as the parks will still be patrolled. Marina services are suspended but owners will have access to their boats.

    Monmouth County news updates and information regarding the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com.

    All State and County Parks are closed in NJ. Some local parks are closed and some local parks are open, check with each town because status changes daily.
    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County

    Allentown: Lions Club’s Memorial Day Parade Is Cancelled.

    April 7, 2020

    ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Allentown Borough just released that the Allentown Memorial Day Parade is cancelled due to health concerns COVID-19.

    The 2020 Allentown Memorial Day Parade is cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns. Photos from the 2019 parade posted. Photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr.
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    • Allentown, NJ Memorial Day Parade
    Some Previous Memorial Day Parades In Allentown Photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr.
    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Girl Scout Troop #71147 “Cookies For The Caring”

    March 30, 2020

    COOKIES FOR THE CARING

    Girl Scout Troop #71147

    During this tough time there are many on the front line caring for us all!

    We would like to give back to those people.

    A donation of $5 will send a box of cookies to a local hospital.

    There are many ways that you can do this!

    Through paypal momofabeauty430@gmail.com

    (Please send it through the friend/family option so there is no extra charge)

    Drop off box on the porch or by mailing to:

    259 Route 539

    Cream Ridge, NJ 08514

    Receipt available by request

    Allentown, Allentown, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Upper Freehold Regional School Buildings Closed Until After Spring Break April 20th, Online Learning Continues

    March 20, 2020

    ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–See letter sent out to families of Upper Freehold Regional School District:

    March 20, 2020
    Dear UFRSD Family,
    I hope this letter finds you well. It is remarkable to think about how different things are in such
    a short amount of time. In these times, we are seeing our schools, our staff, our students, our
    community, our state and country rise up to battle this moment in our history. I continue to be
    proud of the work that everyone is doing to make this moment meaningful for kids. We are all a part
    of this team of Redbirds, and I couldn’t be prouder of the entire UFRSD community.
    As you may remember, the UFRSD and Millstone Township School District made the decision last week
    to close our schools through March 27, 2020. We made this decision to support the recommendation of
    social distancing to help slow the spread of the Covid-19 (coronavirus) virus. This past week, the
    Governor closed all schools in New Jersey “until further notice.” All indications point to a much
    longer closure for our schools. Therefore, Dr. Huss and I made the decision to close schools
    through spring break. Spring break begins on Thursday, April 9th (early dismissal schedule) and has
    our schools reopening on Monday, April 20, 2020. There will be no remote learning during the week
    of spring break (April 10 – April 19), because, more than ever, we recognize the real need for a
    mental break this year..
    We are fully aware that this date may need to continue to be adjusted. We will monitor all
    information and continually consult with the Department of Health and the Department of Education
    to determine if the April 20th date is a realistic one.
    I am an eternal optimist, and I know we will get through this challenging time together. We have
    always been a great district, and this extraordinary community just continues to show how amazing
    people do amazing things.
    Stay healthy, and I will continue to look forward to our return to school at some point in the
    future. I miss everyone.
    My best,
    Mark Guterl
    Mark Guterl
    Superintendent of Schools

    Allentown, Allentown, Burlington, East Windsor, East Windsor, Ewing, Freehold, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hopewell, Jackson, Lawrence, Manalapan, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Monroe Twp, New Egypt, Ocean County, Other Towns, Pennington, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Roosevelt, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, West Windsor

    Governor Murphy, Governor Cuomo, and Governor Lamont Announce Regional Approach to Combatting COVID-19

    March 16, 2020

    The three States will limit crowd capacity for recreational and social gatherings to 50 people – effective by 8 PM tonight 

    Restaurants and bars will close for on premise service and move to take-out and delivery only effective 8 PM tonight

    Movie theaters, gyms and casinos will temporarily close effective 8 PM tonight

    Uniform approach to social distancing will slow spread of COVID-19 throughout the tri-state area

    PRESS RELEASE FROM GOV. MURPHY’S OFFICE: TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)—Amid a lack of federal direction and nationwide standards, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced a regional approach to combatting the novel coronavirus – or COVID-19 – throughout the tri-state area.

    These uniform standards will limit crowd capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, effective 8 PM tonight. This follows updated guidance that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued yesterday recommending the cancellation or postponement of in-person events consisting of 50 people or more.

    The three governors also announced restaurants and bars will close for on premise service and move to take-out and delivery services only. These establishments will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol. These measures will take effect at 8 PM tonight.

    Finally, the three governors said they will temporarily close movie theaters, gyms and casinos, effective at 8 PM tonight. 

    This uniform approach to social distancing is meant to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. 

    Governor Murphy said, “With all we are seeing in our state – and across our nation and around the world – the time for us to take our strongest, and most direct, actions to date to slow the spread of coronavirus is now. I’ve said many times over the past several days that, in our state, we are going to get through this as one New Jersey family. But if we’re all in this together, we must work with our neighboring states to act together. The work against coronavirus isn’t just up to some of us, it’s up to all of us.”

    “Our primary goal right now is to slow the spread of this virus so that the wave of new infections doesn’t crash our healthcare system, and everyone agrees social distancing is the best way to do that,” Governor Cuomo said. “This is not a war that can be won alone, which is why New York is partnering with our neighboring states to implement a uniform standard that not only keeps our people safe but also prevents ‘state shopping’ where residents of one state travel to another and vice versa. I have called on the federal government to implement nationwide protocols but in their absence we are taking this on ourselves.”

    Governor Lamont said, “The only way to effectively fight the spread of COVID-19 is by working together as states. We have shared interests, and a patchwork of closures and restrictions is not the best way forward. I know that because of this collaboration, we will save lives.” 

    Allentown, Allentown, Freehold, Manalapan, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Messages From Monmouth County And Millstone Township On COVID-19

    March 13, 2020

    FREEHOLD AND MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Due to the cancellation of group activities on the local, state and national levels, all Millstone Township recreational programs, both travel and non-travel, adult and youth programs,  have been suspended through Sunday, April 5th 2020.  This includes games, practices and events.  Further evaluation will be made in early April regarding lifting or extending this suspension. 

    Video from Millstone Township Mayor and Deputy Mayor Regarding COVID-19

    Monmouth County takes action in response to COVID-19

    Beginning Saturday, March 14, no public access to County buildings

    FREEHOLD, NJ –The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders and County officials are
    taking action out of an abundance of caution to protect and keep residents safe from the
    spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
    “Our number one priority is the safety of our residents and so, at this time, we have decided to
    take immediate actions to prevent the COVID-19 in Monmouth County libraries, parks and
    public buildings,” said Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone. “In attempt to curb the spread of
    COVID-19, Monmouth County will be suspending all public building access and programs
    beginning tomorrow.”
    “We want to remind residents to remain calm and make sure you have the most accurate and
    up to date information, which you can get from the Centers of Disease Control or the New
    Jersey Department of Health. Please help us spread facts, not fear,” added Freeholder Director
    Arnone.
    Beginning Saturday, March 14, and through Sunday, March 22, all Monmouth County Library
    branches and the Monmouth County Park System buildings will be closed to the public. County
    golf courses and park spaces will remain open.
    Beginning Monday, March 16, public access will be restricted from all buildings with the
    exception of the Monmouth County Division of Social Services (MCDSS). For MCDSS,
    protections will be put into place to ensure that there is no physical contact between
    Monmouth County employees and the residents seeking services.
    All Monmouth County employees will report to work and be available to residents by phone
    and by email.
    “We understand that the COVID-19 situation is unsettling for some and want to arm our
    residents with the information they need,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley,
    liaison to the Monmouth County Department of Health and Human Services. “There is a
    Monmouth County Health Department’s phone bank will open Monday at 9 a.m. for residents
    who have any questions and concerns about COVID-19, or need to talk to someone about how
    this situation is affecting them.”
    Crisis Counselors from the Monmouth County Division of Behavioral Health are available
    through the phone banks to help residents who may be experiencing stress or anxiety due to
    the evolving situation. The counselors will provide County residents with guidance to help
    them through this challenging time.
    The Monmouth County Health Department phone bank will open Monday, March 16 at 9 a.m.
    and can be reached at 732-845-2070.

    County officials monitoring Coronavirus situation in
    Monmouth County

    FREEHOLD, NJ –With four presumptive positive cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Monmouth
    County, County officials are assuring residents that they are monitoring the situation and taking action
    to ensure the public health and safety of Monmouth County residents.
    Two of the presumptive positive cases include a 66 year old female from Hazlet and an 83 year old
    female from Hazlet who are both being treated at Hackensack Meridian Health Bayshore Medical
    Center. The Golden Age Adult Day Care Program, where both of these individuals were clients, has
    voluntarily closed and is working in cooperation with the New Jersey Department of Health and the
    Monmouth County Health Department.
    The two other cases include a 27 year old male from Little Silver who recently attended the Biogen
    conference in Boston and a 17 year old female from Little Silver who is an immediate family member
    of the 27 year old male.
    “We continue to assure you that the freeholder board is actively engaged and in constant contact with
    the local mayors and the New Jersey Legislative Delegation as well as the New Jersey Governor’s
    Office and the New Jersey Department of Health,” said Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone. “We
    are committed to ensuring that the County has the necessary resources to respond and mitigate this
    evolving situation.”
    “All Monmouth County and municipal health officials are following guidelines set forth by the Centers
    of Disease Control (CDC) the Governor’s State of Emergency Declaration and the New Jersey
    Department of Health (NJDOH) for response to COVID-19 cases,” added Freeholder Director
    Arnone.
    All Monmouth County and municipal health officials are following the guidelines set forth by the CDC
    and the NJDOH for monitoring and response to COVID-19 cases.
    The best defense against the Coronavirus is to practice safe respiratory hygiene and take steps to
    prevent the spread of germs including washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home
    when sick. However, residents should be aware that as investigations into these four cases continue,
    additional cases may be identified.
    “Again we would like to reiterate that it is important to have factual, up to date information about the
    coronavirus,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Kiley. “If you have questions, go directly to the CDC,
    the New Jersey Department of Health or the Monmouth County Health Department.”
    There have been social media reports of individuals going door to door claiming to be from the CDC.
    The CDC is not deploying teams of people to go door to door and conduct surveillance, so people
    should not let these individuals in their homes or speak with them.
    The CDC has a “share the facts, stop fear” page which is quite useful in determining what is fact vs.
    fiction with regard to the coronavirus. It can be accessed at cdc.gov/coronavirus.
    Timely and accurate information can also be found at http://www.nj.gov/health and anyone with questions
    can call the NJDOH COVID-19 24-Hour Public Hotline 1-800-222-1222 or email to ncov@dohnj.gov.
    Links to the CDC and New Jersey Department of Health are currently posted to the Monmouth County
    Health Department webpage, http://www.visitmonmouth.com/health.

    Allentown, Allentown, Bordentown Twp, Burlington, East Windsor, East Windsor, Editorial, Ewing, Ewing, Freehold, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hightstown, Hightstown-East Windsor, Hopewell, Jackson, Lawrence, Manalapan, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Millstone, Millstone, Monmouth County, Monroe Twp, New Egypt, Ocean County, Opinion, Other Towns, Pennington, Plumsted, Plumsted Twp, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Roosevelt, Trenton, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold, West Windsor, West Windsor

    Census 2020 Survey Is Arriving By Mail

    March 13, 2020

    By: Dennis Symons, Jr.

    ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)—The 2020 Census count is underway and I received my invitation by mail today. As per the instructions I logged onto My2020census.gov and entered my code Census ID Code. There were some very basic questions of who was living in the home and birthdays. It was one of the easiest census forms I have ever completed and took less than two minutes to complete from start to finish, even though it says it could take an average of 10 minutes to complete.

    The Census is counted every 10 years and many things from voting districts, financial aid, Federal, State and Local government services and more use this government data. A response is required by law and should be very easy to complete if you have received the invitation from United States Census Bureau.

    Frequently asked questions of the Census Bureau:

    1. What is the 2020 Census?The goal of the census is to count every person living in the United States, once, only once and in the right place. Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution mandates that this population and housing count occur every 10 years. Census data guide how more than $675 billion of federal funding is distributed to states and communities each year.
    2. Am I required to respond to the 2020 Census?Yes, you are required by law to respond to the 2020 Census (Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193). We are conducting the 2020 Census under the authority of Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141, 193 and 221. This collection of information has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The eight-digit OMB approval number is 0607-1006. If this number were not displayed, we could not conduct the census.
    3. Are my answers confidential and private?Yes. The Census Bureau is required by law to protect your information. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks through screening of the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted in order to protect your privacy.Title 13 of the U.S. Code protects the confidentiality of all your information. Violating the confidentiality of a respondent is a federal crime with serious penalties, including a federal prison sentence of up to five years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Only authorized individuals have access to the stored data, and the information you provide to the Census Bureau may only be used by a restricted number of authorized individuals who are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of your individual responses. Your answers cannot be used against you by any government agency or court.For more information about how we protect your information, please visit our website at census.gov and click on “Data Protection and Privacy Policy” at the bottom of the home page. This page also includes information about the collection, storage, and use of these records. Click on “System of Records Notices (SORN)” and look for Privacy Act System of Records Notice COMMERCE/CENSUS-5, Decennial Census Program.
    4. Who should complete the 2020 Census questionnaire?This 2020 Census questionnaire should be completed by the person who owns or rents the living quarters or any other person who is at least 15 years of age with knowledge of the household.
    5. How do I change my answers?For questions where you must choose a single response from a list, clicking another response will change your answer to that response.If it is a “select all that apply” question, you may click on a selected check box to unselect the box and remove it as one of your answers.
    6. How long will the 2020 Census questionnaire take?The Census Bureau estimates that completing the questionnaire will take 10 minutes on average.
    7. How will the Census Bureau use the information I provide?By law, the Census Bureau can only use your responses to produce statistics.
    8. Is it safe to complete the 2020 Census questionnaire online?Yes. For each online questionnaire, we are required to provide an explanation to respondents about the confidentiality of the data and the laws that protect those data (e.g., Title 13, U.S. Code Section 9 (a)).Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks through screening of the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted in order to protect your privacy, even in the remote chance that your responses are intercepted.More information on this topic can be found on the Data Protection and Privacy Policy webpage (http://www.census.gov/privacy/).
    9. Will the results be published?Yes. By law, the Census Bureau can only use your responses to produce statistics. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. The Census Bureau plans to make results of this study available to the general public. Results will be presented in aggregate form and no personally identifiable information will be published.Information quality is an integral part of the pre-dissemination review of the information disseminated by the Census Bureau (fully described in the Census Bureau’s Information Quality Guidelines at https://www.census.gov/about/policies/quality/guidelines.html). Information quality is also integral to the information collection conducted by the Census Bureau and is incorporated into the clearance process by the Paperwork Reduction Act.
    10. Do I have to complete the 2020 Census questionnaire for my household members?Yes, you will be asked to provide information for each household member.
    Allentown, Allentown, Millstone, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Upper Freehold Regional Schools Virtual Learning Plan, For COVID-19 Precautions

    March 13, 2020

    ALLENTOWN, UPPER FREEHOLD, MILLSTONE, NJ (MONMOUTH)–See letter from Mark Guterl, Superintendent of Schools Letter can be downloaded here.

    March 13, 2020

    Good Afternoon, UFRSD Family,

    Effective Monday, March 16, 2020, the Upper Freehold Regional School District will close its buildings to students and non-essential personnel and will activate at-home/virtual learning for instruction. This was a multi-faceted decision made in consultation with the Monmouth County Health Officer and Monmouth County Executive Superintendent. Additionally, we have worked in collaboration with Dr. Huss from the Millstone Township Schools. The decision is based upon growing research indicating that social distancing is an effective strategy that currently impacts the eventual spread of COVID-19. Therefore, the best time to close schools is before this spread happens.

    This decision did not come lightly, but we felt compelled to do everything we can to fight any community spread that may occur. This decision was made for the safety of our kids, staff and communities. We know that this will be challenging for our families and for our staff. Although we do not have a confirmed case yet, if we wait until one is identified it will be too late to stop the spread of this highly contagious virus. Additionally, it is becoming increasingly difficult to track the degrees of separation between positive cases in NJ and our residents.

    Beginning Monday, March 16th, our at-home and virtual learning plan will begin. All home learning will be done on a half day schedule, which will give students and staff the afternoons to do what they need to do for school.

    By their very nature, public schools are designed for active and collaborative learning with many opportunities for social interaction. Our at-home and virtual learning plans will certainly not be equal to face-to-face instruction, but we will do our best to continue the education of our kids. From Monday, March 16, 2020 through Friday, March 27, 2020 we will provide at-home/virtual learning. During this time, we will continually be assessing whether or not to reopen school on March 30, 2020. This decision will be made based upon the recommendations of health department officials and in collaboration with Dr. Huss. Please note that remote learning days will fulfill the 180 day requirement under N.J.S.A. 18A:7F-9. According to several sources, closing schools is a proven measure to slow the spread of the disease and, in turn, to keep more students, staff, and families healthy and safe. We know we cannot fully replace the live classroom experiences that organically occur with teacher-student interactions and connections. We also know that we are charting unexplored territory as we implement remote learning for our students. How we implement this plan will continually evolve as we have more experience with it.

    This closure will include the cancellation or postponement of all after-school, evening, and weekend activities. All facility use events and rental activities will be cancelled as well.

    Please know we are here for you and will navigate this together! Right now, buildings will remain open with some essential staff which will allow us to carry on with the “business” end of school. We will also be available to answer questions you may have.

    The UFRSD and our food service vendor, Chartwells, have planned for daily lunch for participants of the free and reduced lunch program throughout these remote learning school days. A separate letter will be sent to the parents of program participants.

    Principals of each building will send out a follow up letter outlining staff responsibilities and providing details for the learning plan for the next few weeks. I will continue to communicate with you throughout this process.

    As I have said, this is a fluid situation that will be constantly evolving. We will do everything to continue to communicate with you and support you in any way. We look forward to getting back to school at some point in the near future. I have never been prouder to work in the UFRSD.

    My best,

    Mark Guterl

    Superintendent of Schools

    Allentown, Allentown, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    Upper Freehold Regional Schools Closed Thursday March 12, 2020 For “Deep Cleaning” Also Senior Wellness Event and Social Cancelled

    March 11, 2020

    Also see below for: Senior Wellness Event and Spring Social cancelled by the Mayor due to concerns over the Coronavirus. 

    From Millstone and Allentown social media accounts:

    Upper Freehold Regional School District

    Good Evening, UFRSD Family,

    This afternoon, we were made aware that a district staff member has come in to close contact with a person who possessed symptoms of the Coronavirus. That person was tested and is awaiting results. The good news is that our staff member has not exhibited any symptoms and is feeling fine. We have been in contact with the Monmouth County Department of Health and our Executive County Superintendent to discuss this situation.

    As a precautionary measure, we are closing all UFRSD schools tomorrow, Thursday, March 12th. In talking with our Department of Health, they believed that we would still be able to open tomorrow, but we felt that we would rather make sure that our buildings are deeply cleaned and scrubbed before our students return. In our conversations, it was clear that a person who is not symptomatic is not spreading the virus, so we feel fortunate to be able to give the buildings a deep cleaning just to be sure. We are closing schools out of an abundance of caution in an effort to ensure that our students and staff are safe.

    The day will count as one of our three snow days that are embedded into the calendar.

    If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out me.

    I appreciate your patience and support with this situation.

    My best,

    Mark Guterl

    Superintendent of School

    Added to this page rather than start another post:

    Senior Wellness Event and Spring Social cancelled by the Mayor due to concerns over the Coronavirus. 

    Dear residents of Allentown,

    As your Mayor, my primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of our community and take every precaution  necessary.  After careful consideration and consultation with our emergency management official,  Chief of Police and review of local, county and state advisories, I have decided to cancel the Senior Wellness Event scheduled for March 18th and the Spring Social scheduled for March 30th.  

    These decisions never come easy but we must consider what is the best interest of our Seniors who are most at risk.   We will be monitoring every report closely and will continue to push out the  appropriate messages to keep all residents informed.  

    We are also working with our neighboring municipalities and the UFRSD to maintain a high level of communication and preparedness.  On behalf of the Governing Body, we appreciate your understanding.  

    Sincerely,

    Thomas C. Fritts, Mayor
    Allentown Borough

    Allentown, Allentown, FFA, Monmouth County, Upper Freehold, Upper Freehold

    FFA Annual Gift Auction and Spaghetti Dinner March 21 Canceled Over COVID-19 Concerns

    March 10, 2020

    ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–From the Allentown FFA Alumni Facebook Page.

    Due to concerns with Corona Virus, we will be cancelling the Annual Gift Auction and Spaghetti Dinner on March 21. We appreciate your understanding and thank you for your support.

    This was a difficult decision but we want to ensure the safety of students, supporters, and volunteers.

    We hope to see you next year!