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:
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.
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.
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/
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.
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
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.
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.
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:
Blue Angels and Thunderbird Combined Fly-By Event Is In “Planning Stage” – Will Not Be Today
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
April 7, 2020
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Allentown Borough just released that the Allentown Memorial Day Parade is cancelled due to health concerns COVID-19.
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
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
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.”
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.
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:
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
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
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!
March 6, 2020
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Construction on Church Street will continue for another day for sewer line repairs. Church Street is and will be closed between Main Street and Johnson Drive from 7AM to 3PM. Traffic is being redirected onto Johnson Drive, to Mechanic Street, to Broad Street, and back onto Main Street. There will be traffic delays in the area. Please plan accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
March 5, 2020
Church Street is closed from Main Street to Johnson Drive.
Allentown, NJ (Monmouth)–There is sewer line maintenance work going on today. As such, Church Street is closed between Main Street and Johnson Drive. Traffic is being redirected onto Johnson Drive, to Mechanic Street, to Broad Street, and back onto Main Street. It is estimated that this work will continue until 3PM today. If work needs to continue tomorrow, the same closures will be in effect. There will be traffic delays in the area. Please plan accordingly. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
March 3, 2020
HAMILTON, N.J. (MERCER)– It’s not too late for high school students to sign up for the national 2020 Annual Congressional Art Competition hosted locally by Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) for Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean students who live in the Fourth Congressional District he represents.
The deadline for entry is March 13 for current high school student artwork recently completed, or works specifically created just for the competition, that meet the originality, suitability, size and other entry guidelines of the national competition. Click here for 2020 rules of entry, entry forms, a list of towns in the Fourth District and other important information.
“Every year the artwork submitted by the students is impressive,” Smith said. “It is encouraging and inspiring to see such a high level of artistry being pursued by our students and fostered by art teachers in the Fourth Congressional District. Three professional judges, whose artwork will also be on display, will pick the winners.”
The artwork entered into the competition this year will be displayed and open to the public at the Lake Front Gallery of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital at Hamilton (RWJ-Hamilton) from March 31, 2020 through May 1, with winners announced at the end of the show. Last year the nearly 70 entries represented a variety of styles and mediums.
The judges are dedicated, experienced local artists who have roots in the community.
Every year the Congressional Institute sponsors this national high school visual art competition to recognize and foster artistic talent in each congressional district. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Participation in the contest is at the discretion of each Member office.
Students who place will receive ribbons and all participants are presented with congressional certificates.
Student artwork will on be display during normal hospital visiting hours at the RWJ-Hamilton Lakefront Art Gallery located in the Tower on the first floor mezzanine, directly above the café and gift shop area. RWJ-Hamilton is located at One Hamilton Health Place, Hamilton, NJ, Mercer County.
To enter a piece of artwork or for more information, call Smith’s Constituent Service Center at (609) 585-7878.
Information about the 2020 NJ-04 show or to view the 2019 and prior year winners visit Congressman Smith’s Congressional Art Competition web page.
Municipalities in New Jersey’s 4th Congressional District 2013-2022
Allentown Manasquan Bay Head
Avon-By-The-Sea Middletown (part)* Jackson
Belmar Millstone Lakehurst
Bradley Beach Neptune City Lakewood
Brielle Neptune Township Manchester
Colts Neck Ocean Township Plumsted
Eatontown Red Bank Point Pleasant Borough (part) *
Englishtown Roosevelt Point Pleasant Beach
Fair Haven Rumson
Farmingdale Sea Girt
Freehold Borough Shrewsbury Borough
Freehold Township Shrewsbury Township
Holmdel Spring Lake
Howell Spring Lake Heights Mercer County
Lake Como Tinton Falls Hamilton
Little Silver Upper Freehold Robbinsville
Manalapan Wall
February 23, 2020
MANALAPAN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Allentown FFA held a wreath laying ceremony for the first FFA National President from Freehold, NJ today the 2nd day of FFA Week. This has been a tradition tracked back in Allentown FFA scrap books as far as 1975.
Applegate was elected first FFA president in 1928 (Called New Farmers of America in 1928) First National FFA Convention is held in Kansas City, Mo.: 33 delegates from 18 states (Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin) are in attendance.
More on NJ’s FFA History here at the NJ Department of Agriculture website.
Leslie N. Applegate was born on October 20, 1911 and died in December 1971. Anyone wishing to visit Applegate is buried in Old Tennent Cemetery 454 Tennent Rd, Manalapan, Section C, Lot 16, Grave 279
February 22, 2020
Complete details at: https://www.trackwrestling.com/ search for NJSIAA Tournament
NJSIAA District 21 held at Wall High School
138 Hamilton North Nottingham David Aboasu with a 5-3 decision over Northern Burlington David Aboasu
152 Hamilton North Nottingham Joachim Larose with a 6-1 decision over Lawrence Sean Mills
160 Hamilton North Nottingham Kwanir Edwards with a 9-5 decision over Northern Burlington Jamie Lovenduski
NJSIAA District 22 held at Middletown North High School
113 Trenton Cory Stallworth 3rd place with a fall over Westampton Ibrahim Kermen at 2:18
120 Allentown Joey Lamparelli 1st place with a 9-3 decision over Middletown North Fred Luchs
145 Allentown’s Matt Paglia 2nd place after a 5-3 decision over CBA Tyler Barrett
160 Allentown’ Nick Golden 1st place after a 3-1 decision over Red Bank Catholic Sabino Portella
170 Trenton Central High School Te’amo Nazario 1st place, Allentown Paskal Miga 2nd place
195 Notre Dame Jaylen Bynes 3rd place with a fall against Trenton Jayson Williams at 1:47
220 Allentown Daniel Schweitzer 3rd with a fall against Willingboro Naeem Walker at 3:01
NJSIAS District 23 held at Point Pleasant Beach High School
106 Robbinsville Shailen Savur 1st place with 8-1 decision over Pt. Pleasant Boro Lucas Toree
106 Hightstown Robert Fattore 3rd place TF 1.5 5:16 over Steinert-Hamilton East Nicholas Ricigliano
113 Hamilton East Steinert 1st with a 11-3 decision over Long Branch Dylan Kelleher
120 Robbinsville Dylan Cifrodelli 2nd after a 7-3 decision against Point Pleasant Boro James Latendorf 1st
120 Hightstown Joseph Obst 3rd place over Long Branch Ignacio Guzman
126 Robbinsville Drake Torrington 1st in 11-4 decision over Long Branch Joseph Conlon
126 Giovanni Morina 3rd place with a 9-4 decision over Anthony Verdi Hamilton East Steinert
132 Hightstown Kether Thornton 1st place with a 9-2 decision over Point Pleasant Beach Siley Simon
145 Hightstown Elijah Rodriguez 2nd after a decision against Point Pleasant Beach Jesse Bowers
160 Highstown Alex Stavrou 2nd after a 6-5 decision against Point Pleasant Boro Ty Bailey
195 Hightstown Chris Stavrou 2nd against Long Branch Patrick O’Dwyer 1st
195 Hamilton East Steinert 3rd against Point Pleasant Beach George Kaiafas
220 Hightstown Bryan Bonilla 3rd with at 4-0 decision over Point Pleasant Boro Patrick Frawley
285 Hightstown Brenden Hansen 1st over Neptune Isaias Thomas
Congrats to Hightstown Coach Russo who was named the District 23 Coach of the Year
NJSIAA DISTRICT 24 held at Delran High School
170 Hamilton West Ryan Bennett 1st with a 8-7 decision over Ocean Twp. Tah-Jay Phillips
February 22, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Allentown FFA Chapter was at the Allentown-Upper Freehold Tractor Supply today showing scrap books and other items from the FFA Chapter. Several current FFA members as well as Allentown FFA Alumni were on hand. Tractor Supply is collecting donations for the FFA Paper Emblem Program during FFA Week.
Tomorrow the Allentown FFA Chapter will have a wreath laying ceremony at grave site of Leslie Applegate from New Jersey who was elected first National FFA president in 1929. Looking though chapter records this has been a tradition since at least 1975 during FFA Week.
You may want to donate to the TSC FFA Paper Emblem Program if you happen to visit Tractor Supply this FFA Week.
February 22, 2020
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–It is National FFA Week and this year is celebrated from February 22 to 29, 2020. The Allentown High School Chapter of the FFA Organization has a deep history in the area. Recently I came across a set of negatives of the 1988-89 FFA Banquet in Allentown. From the mark on one of the negatives one of the group photos may have been published back in the Messenger Press, none of the other photos have been seen before. Enjoy a look back in time from 32 years ago. Also a few photos in the mix of the Allentown FFA Alumni meeting in 1988-89.
If you happen to stop by Tractor Supply Company in Allentown/Upper Freehold today you may bump into some current and past FFA members. You may want to donate to the TSC FFA Paper Emblem Program while you are there.
Follow our Facebook page there are over 1,000 photo from late 1980s to early 90s of events in our area.
February 21, 2020
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Trenton Catholic Academy, Iron Mikes boys basketball team defeated the Allentown, Redbirds with a final score of 78-66. The Trenton Catholic Academy will advance in the Mercer County Tournament and take on Hightstown in the final 4 to be held at the Cure Insurance Arena.
