November 30, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–This morning at 6:00 am the Millstone Township Fire Department will be providing ambulance service out of the firehouse. The program is run by the Millstone Township Fire District #1 with a shared service agreement with the Township of Millstone.
November 29, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Millstone Township Fire Department responded to Seasonal World on Route 537 this afternoon around 3:50 pm for a car in a pool. Upon arrival the driver of the vehicle was out out the vehicle and out of the water. No further information was available.
November 15, 2020
ROBBINSVILLE-EAST WINDSOR-WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)-MILLSTONE (MONMOUTH)–Gusty winds from an approaching line of storms moving though the area caused several power issues in the Mercer County and Monmouth County areas.
In Robbinsville around 7:15 pm a falling tree branch from a tree on Route 130 near the Oakwood Motel fell onto electrical wires causing a fire. Robbinsville Township Police Closed Route 130 south bound at Meadowbrook Road until the burning branch fell and self extinguished. The Robbinsville Township Fire Department stood by on the south bound side of the roadway until the fire was out and the area was safe. The roadway was reopened a short time later. There were several other related power issued with this event, several Robbinsville residents have reported power issues and issues have appeared to been resolved at the time of this report. If not restored notify your power company.
As of 9:10 pm the PSE&G outage map reports Robbinsville Township clear. The JCP&L outage map shows a couple of outages in East Windsor and West Windsor near Hankins Road, Village Road East and Old Trenton Road.
In Millstone Township Monmouth County between 100 and 500 JCP&L customers are out of power from a power line down and burning on Millstone Road between Sweetmans Lane and Bittner Road.
November 9, 2020 11:53 am with additional update at 6:45 pm with additional details.
November 9, 2020 6:45 pm update:
Trooper Charles Marchan of the NJ State Police Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.News tonight, that Based on preliminary investigation, Emily C. Dengler was operating a Honda Accord westbound on Stagecoach Road CR 524. William F. Morelli, was operating a Harley Davidson eastbound on Stagecoach Road CR 524 with Laura Zylinski as a rear passenger. The Honda ran off the road, struck a mailbox and re-entered the roadway colliding with the front of the Harley. Both occupants of the motorcycle were ejected.
William Morelli, 56, from Wall, NJ was pronounced at 1:48 p.m.
November 9, 2020 11:53 am update:
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–NJ State Police Sgt. Lawrence Peele of the Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.News that the driver of the motorcycle in yesterday’s crash, William Morelli, 56, of Wall, N.J., died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash at Centra State Hospital. The passenger remains in serious condition at Jersey Shore Medical Center.
Yesterday: (November 8, 2020)
3:30 pm update: Trooper II Alejandro Goez, from the NJ State Police Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.News that an accident was reported at 12:33 pm in the area of 125 Stagecoach Road in Millstone Twp. involving a car and a motorcycle.
There were no reported injuries to the driver of the car. The driver and occupant of the motorcycle sustained serious injuries. One was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical and the other was taken via ambulance to Centra State Hospital.
The road is currently shutdown for the accident investigation.
Earlier MidJersey.News story here:
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 12:30 pm a serious accident occurred, in the 100 Block of Stagecoach Road (CR 524) between Stillhouse Road and Charleston Spring Road. Millstone Township Fire Department, RWJ EMS, paramedics, NJSP and two helicopters were sent to the scene.
Not much is known about the accident but one person was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center by Hackensack Meridian Health helicopter and another person was transported to CentraState Medical Center by ground.
Expect the roadway to be closed until the accident investigation is completed by the NJSP Serious Accident Investigation Unit.
November 8, 2020 Updated at 3:30 pm with NJSP Information below:
3:30 pm update: Trooper II Alejandro Goez, from the NJ State Police Public Information Bureau told MidJersey.News that an accident was reported at 12:33 pm in the area of 125 Stagecoach Road in Millstone Twp. involving a car and a motorcycle.
There were no reported injuries to the driver of the car. The driver and occupant of the motorcycle sustained serious injuries. One was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical and the other was taken via ambulance to Centra State Hospital.
The road is currently shutdown for the accident investigation.
Earlier MidJersey.News story here:
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 12:30 pm a serious accident occurred, in the 100 Block of Stagecoach Road (CR 524) between Stillhouse Road and Charleston Spring Road. Millstone Township Fire Department, RWJ EMS, paramedics, NJSP and two helicopters were sent to the scene.
Not much is known about the accident but one person was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center by Hackensack Meridian Health helicopter and another person was transported to CentraState Medical Center by ground.
Expect the roadway to be closed until the accident investigation is completed by the NJSP Serious Accident Investigation Unit.
Dam repairs to take place at Stone Tavern Lake and Rising Sun Lake though December 1, 2020.
October 23, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP-MILLSTONE TOWNSHP, NJ (MONMOUTH) –The Division is currently working on two dam repair projects on the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. Stone Tavern and Rising Sun Lakes have been lowered approximately four feet to provide construction crews access to the dam and water control structures. Concrete work will be completed on the spillways and repairs to trash gates.
Both projects should be completed around December 1, at which time the lakes will be returned to their normal water levels. Access is currently open to these locations, however, it may be impacted by construction activities during the project. The Division will provide updates on the website should any changes regarding the completion date or access occur.
Both lakes have adequate depths to fully support the fish population during the duration of the project.
October 1, 2020
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The lengthy process of restoring public utilities after a major storm has been an issue plaguing rural residents for quite some time. Assemblyman Ron Dancer wants to ensure rural areas are given the same level of priority as the rest of the state and has introduced two bills speed up restoration after thunderstorms, snowstorms, and other major events.
The first bill (A4761) would give public utilities and cable television companies the ability to use drones to survey damaged infrastructure.
“Drones are a powerful tool in assessing damage and assisting with repairs after a major storm,” said Dancer (R-Ocean). “Other states have allowed utility companies to use drones with much success. We cannot afford to continue to have slow restoration times, so it makes sense to allow the utility companies to use drones to speed up the process.”
Dancer’s second bill (A4763) would require the Board of Public Utilities to create new regulations to require that electric companies prioritize communities where at least 40 percent of residents rely on private wells for drinking water and septic systems for sanitary disposal of waste. Additionally, watering stations would also be required.
“Many people do not realize when a home in a rural area loses power, they often lose access to drinking water, as well as, flushing and refilling toilets,” said Dancer. “A priority restoration plan must be put into place to avoid leaving rural areas without access to their basic life essential necessities. When people are without basic necessities for days, it could lead to major public health and safety issues.”
NJ Legislative District 12 covers: Allentown, Chesterfield, Englishtown, Jackson, Manalapan, Matawan, Millstone (Monmouth), New Hanover, North Hanover, Old Bridge, Plumsted, Roosevelt, Upper Freehold, Wrightstown
September 28, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Millstone Township Fire Department is pleased to announce that a shared service agreement has been entered between the Millstone Township Fire District and Millstone Township. This shared agreement has allowed for the Fire Department to create an EMS division, becoming the sole provider for Basic Life Support (BLS) Ambulance service. Previously, the township was served by the Millstone Township First Aid Squad, which served Millstone since 1954. Since 2016, Millstone has received ambulance service supplemented by 2 different third party vendors. The fire department has been providing EMS first responder services starting in 2007. As the years went by the criteria increased in which Fire Department EMT’s responded and provided medical care to township residents and visitors. This program proved to be quite successful and included a number of CPR saves. The creation of this new division has been an involved process over the past several months. The line officers and staff of the Fire Department, the Board of Fire Commissioners, the Township Committee and Township Administrator have worked together to formulate a program to best serve the residents of Millstone Township. Currently, the process to obtain a license with the NJ Department of Health is being completed. Vehicles have been acquired and will be outfitted. Additional per diem staff will be hired and applications will be accepted for prospective EMS volunteers. Plans to launch this program and begin service are planned for later this year.This is a new chapter for the fire department. We want to thank all of the individuals who have supported us in the development of this program. We would be remiss if we did not thank the Millstone Township First Aid Squad for their many years of service. Further, we want to thank the residents of Millstone, for their continued support of our Department.
September 28, 2020
UPDATE As of 9:30 parts of Robbinsville and Upper Freehold have been restored. Others in East Windsor and Hightstown are still out.
UPDATE At of 11:30 pm Hightstown and East Windsor is still without power and estimated restore time is 1:30 am.
UPDATE 9:00 am 9/29/2020 the outage reporting map is still showing some power failures in East Windsor and Millstone with an estimated 11:30 am restoration time. Most have been restored over night but a few are still without power.
ROBBINSVILLE-UPPER FREEHOLD- EAST WINDSOR- MILLSTONE– Wide area power problems in Robbinsville, East Windsor, Upper Freehold and Millstone in areas served by JCP&L no status or cause reported.
JCPL has been notified.
August 7, 2020 Update 12:45 pm:
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–According to NJ State Police Spokesman Trooper Charles Marchan, Yesterday, at 8:33 pm, a trooper from Hamilton Station was responding to a tree down in the roadway on Conover Road in Millstone Township, Monmouth County.
According to Marchan, the trooper requested the assistance of Millstone Township Public Works to move the tree. Millstone Twp Public Works was operating a case front loader to clear the tree from the roadway, when they accidentally pushed the tree into a utility pole which fell on the troop car while the trooper was inside. The trooper was not injured.
SEE OFFICIAL REPORT ABOVE FROM NJ STATE POLICE
LAST NIGHTS REPORT HERE:
11:00 PM UPDATE: Radio reports are that the Trooper is out of the vehicle and is OK.
11:05 PM Update: Some fire department units returning.
11:12 PM Update: All fire department units are clear the scene turned over to NJSP
BREAKING NEWS REPORT: This is a breaking news report and have an e-mail into NJ State Police for official comment on the situation. Once we receive official information story will be updated and any corrections made. Reports are from radio radio and other sources.
August 6, 2020, updated at 11:00 pm, updated 11:05 pm, 11:12 pm
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Just after 10:00 pm a NJ State Police vehicle reportedly became trapped in wires in front of 45 Conover Road when wires and a transformer fell. Millstone Township Fire Department and a chief from Manalapan Fire Company are on scene. JCP&L during initial contact could not give an estimate of how long it would take to respond. By 10:30 pm a JCP&L supervisor was on scene assessing the situation.
Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services and a JCP&L supervisor is on scene at the time of this report. Check back for an update.
As of 11:00 pm the trooper is now free of the vehicle and is reportedly OK from radio reports at the scene.
11:05 some fire department units are returning.
11:12 pm all fire department units are clear the scene turned over to NJSP
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
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 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
ESSEX COUNTY
HUNTERDON COUNTY
MERCER COUNTY
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
MONMOUTH COUNTY
MORRIS COUNTY
OCEAN COUNTY
SOMERSET COUNTY
SUSSEX COUNTY
UNION COUNTY
WARREN COUNTY
July 20, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Millstone Township Fire Department was dispatched at 10:22 am to the intersection of Perrineville Road and Giant Maple Court for a two vehicle accident. Firefighters requested assistance from Monroe Township Fire Department Station 57 to help with the extrication of a person trapped.
A Jeep overturned and up righted during the two vehicle collision. The driver of the Jeep was heavily entrapped and was freed by firefighters from Millstone and Monroe Townships using extrication tools.
While firefighters were conducting a heavy extrication they called for a medical helicopter for faster transport to the trauma center. The New Jersey State Police sent the “North Star” medical helicopter and landed at the little league field on Perrineville Road. The patient was transferred from the Robert Wood Johnson Ambulance to the helicopter and was flown to RWJ Hospital New Brunswick trauma center. Manalapan Township Fire Department stood by at the landing zone and assisted.
There were no reported injuries in the other vehicle in the collision.
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 23, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey State Police said a fatal accident was reported on Carrs Tavern Rd at 3:18 pm.
State Police said that preliminary details indicate that a Buick Century traveling on Carrs Tavern Road ran off the roadway and into several bushes. The driver of the Buick was pronounced dead at the scene. Cause of the crash remains under investigation.
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 1, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–In this time of social distancing, being “together” is tough. This weekend, families from both Cub Scout Pack 116 and Boy Scout Troop 116 of Millstone Township went camping…. at home. With the aid of a private Facebook group and Zoom video conferencing; scouts and their families spent time outside cooking, building campsite gateways, doing scavenger hunts and pioneering projects.
Fifty families with 71 scouts located in both Millstone and Upper Freehold and ranging in age from 6 years to adult participated in the weekend long event. Cubmaster, Chris Weltner, commented, “This was an excellent event, the weather could not have been any better. I am proud of the scouts who attended and showed their scouting skills and scout spirit. This pack/troop interaction should occur more often and I look forward to participating in person.”
Teaching, learning & growing… that was the highlight of the weekend that held the theme “Scouts Camping Apart yet Together: bridging the gap from Lion to Eagle”. Each morning began with a rousing Reveille and each night ended with Taps played by the Troop 116 Buglers. George Schmidt, Senior Patrol Leader, said “I was happy to see so many scouts getting involved in different activities. It was the closest thing we have had to a camp out in months.”
The older scouts from Troop 116 posted instructional videos ranging from cooking, hiking and First Aid skills to pioneering projects, Leave No Trace tips and flag retirement ceremonies. Challenges were made and accepted by scouts of all ages… cooking, camp gateway projects, scavenger hunts, scout skills, and, of course, a s’mores challenge ended Saturday night on a sweet note! Troop Committee Chair, John Keleher. noted that he was “really impressed by not only the engagement of the scouts, but the quality of the content that was posted and shared online. The amount of effort these boys put in was really great!”
Are you interested in learning more about Scouting? For boys in Kindergarten through 5th grade, please visit millstonepack116.org and for boys 6th grade and older, please visit https://millstonetwp116.mytroop.us/. Dens and patrols are always forming and you are welcome to Join the Adventure!
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 29, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Yesterday between 3 pm and 6 pm Vesuvio’s food truck “Slices and Ices” handed out over 350 free ice creams and Italian ices during a special event held across from the pizzeria in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices NJ Properties lot.
Frank Costaglioa from Vesuvio’s provided the free ice cream and Italian Ice. Volunteers including eleven agents from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices NJ Properties helped take orders, direct traffic and hand out ice in a manor to keep the “social distancing” practice in effect during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the kids arrived with their parents someone took the order and then a few seconds later they were handed their treats. Vesuvio’s offered vanilla or chocolate ice cream and the other option was cherry or lemon Italian ice. Everyone had gloves and masks to keep everyone save.
April 25, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A total of four people were injured with non-threatening injures in an accident around 2 pm this afternoon. The accident occurred between a Nissan Murando and a Harley Davidson motorcycle leaving three people trapped upside down in the Nissan and the motorcyclist injured. The collision was at the intersection of Millstone Road and Stage Coach Road-Route 524 also known as “Scooter’s Corner”
The Millstone Township Fire Company responded and requested assistance from several area agencies including Monroe Township Fire Department and Hope Fire Company of Allentown. First Aid Squads were Millstone Township, RWJ Hospital EMS, Allentown First Aid-Capitol Health EMS, and Freehold.
When the Millstone Township Fire Department arrived they found three trapped upside down in the Nissan Murando set up extrication equipment and quickly removed three trapped.
A helicopter was called from the NJ State Police for the motorcyclist but was not needed. The motorcyclist was taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center. Three from the Nissan were taken to CentraState Medical Center in Freehold.
No additional details were ready at the time of this report. Initial reports were that all patients had non-threatening injures.
April 24, 2020
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER) – For the first time ever, the annual Congressional Art Competition held by Rep. Chris Smith as part of a national competition for his district’s high school students, will be a “virtual” online show to ensure the safety of students, parents, teachers and the interested public.
In response to the coronavirus national emergency, the artwork, which is normally displayed for a month at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s Lakefront Gallery, will be posted on Smith’s congressional website ensuring that the students who have worked for many months can still take part in the national competition.
“For these young student artists whose school year has been turned upside down by coronavirus, I am happy we found a way forward and I am grateful to the parents, judges and teachers for making needed adjustments,” Smith said.
“We received strong support for a virtual art competition rather than cancel the show outright due to COVID-19 restrictions,” Smith said. “Safety is paramount, and a virtual gallery enables us to proceed safely not only for the students and parents, but for the patients and workers at RWJ-Hamilton, which has in the past, graciously hosted the show,” he said.
“I am delighted that this year’s show wasn’t canceled, but continued as an online competition,” said Wall High School art teacher, Jill Alexander, who has been preparing her students to enter the show every year for the past six years. “Students in the 4th district are thankful for the great show that Congressman Chris Smith puts on each year, but especially this year because of the challenges everyone is facing.”
“We love going to Robert Wood Johnson’s impressive gallery, and unfortunately that just wasn’t possible this year. My students start working in September preparing their best artwork to submit, and this show is the highlight of the year for us.
“High school students across the country will miss the opportunity to participate in many events this year, including proms, sporting events and even graduation,” Alexander said. “We are really pleased the art competition survives.”
The 2020 show will be exhibited in a virtual art gallery, will use online judging, with winners to be announced in May. Smith’s three-member team of professional judges, whose works are also normally displayed at the show, will also have artwork posted in an online gallery.
This year, students who place in the competition—as best-of-show, and first, second and third runners-up and honorable mentions—will receive ribbons and all participants will be mailed Congressional Certificates, instead of being presented them in person.
The best-in-show winner will be displayed in the Capitol Building in Washington along the busy public corridor/tunnel between the Cannon House Office Building and the Capitol Building for one year with other winners from across the nation. All the artwork entered into Smith’s competition this year will be displayed in his online gallery for one year.
Every year the Congressional Institute sponsors this national high school 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. Currently, the Institute plans to accept the top winning artwork from every congressional show in America by June 18 and hold a reception in Washington on July 22.
For 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.
April 18, 2020
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A single car accident into a tree occurred in the 300 Block of Route 527A-Smithburg Road at 4:57 pm. The Millstone Township Fire Department, NJ State Police and EMS responded. NJ State Police are investigating the crash. No further details are available at the time of this report.
April 1, 2020
Updated: NJSP released the name of the victim, Jeremy Pulley, 38, of Freehold had passed away in the accident.
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)—One person passed away from a single car crash on Route 537 near Six Flags Great Adventure this morning according to New Jersey State Police. The reportedly lost control and crashed into a utility pole around 7 am. The New Jersey State Police are investigating. The name of the deceased was being withheld pending notification of the family. The exit ramp from 195 to 537 was closed for several hours for the accident investigation.
March 24, 2020
In an urgent phone conversation Saturday, March 21st with U.S. Ambassador to Peru, Krishna Urs, Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, urged the Ambassador to reach out to U.S. citizens and reassure those spread-out across Peru that they have not been forgotten nor abandoned.
“There are reportedly 5,000 Americans trapped in Peru needing the immediate assistance of the U.S. government in order to get home,” said Smith, who has been contacted by more than a dozen travelers with New Jersey roots.
“The Administration has been working on some limited options, but we are asking the State Department to raise the bar and expand their efforts to include chartering planes or using military aircraft.”
“Seven hundred Americans, including some from my district, are stuck in parts of Peru, such as Cusco, which is 11,000 feet above sea level where air quality is thin and a strict curfew is enforced. It’s time to let these Americans and their worried families in the U.S. know that their country will employ more resources to bring them home safely,” Smith said.
In addition to speaking with the Ambassador, Smith has been working with State Department officials for several days. A human rights leader in the Congress, Smith has written three letters to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo outlining the location and needs of the New Jersey residents and others desperate for assistance to come home.
“I ask your assistance in prioritizing the evacuation from Peru of these and other Americans by any appropriate, practicable and timely manner, including the chartering of private or commercial aircraft or the utilization of military planes,” Smith said in his March 20th letter in which he named specific Americans needing assistance.
Smith also led a letter cosigned by two additional members of the Foreign Affairs Committee which said in part “Amid the press of so many concerns prompted by the coronavirus pandemic, we appreciate the efforts undertaken thus far on behalf of our citizens abroad, but nonetheless ask that you reassure trapped Americans and their families that their needs are being prioritized.”
“Americans in Peru and elsewhere around the globe should know that we are doing everything we can to reunite them with their loved ones,” he said.
According to news reports, on March 15 the Peruvian government abruptly announced it would close
all borders, effective March 16, subsequently issuing a 15-day quarantine. It later announced that March 22 would be the final day the country would allow official flights to repatriate foreign visitors before the country closed all borders, effectively trapping many Americans and other international visitors in the South American nation. Further repatriation efforts require diplomatic intervention, something Rep. Smith is urging our Ambassador and State Department to prioritize.
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 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
January 17, 2020
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Allentown High School boys basketball team defeated Ewing Township High School with a final score of 72-59 tonight.
January 17, 2020
WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Ravens ice hockey team defeated Hopewell Valley High School Bulldogs with a final score of 5-2.
Note: The Robbinsville Ravens are a cooperative team between Robbinsville High School and Allentown High School.
Photo gallery:
