June 25, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A two car accident occurred at the intersection of Sharon Station Road and County Road 524 around 1:50 pm. The Hope Fire Company, Allentown First Aid Squad and NJ State Police responded to the scene. Upon arrival one vehicle was found on its side and the other with heavy front end damage. Luckily it appears that there were no injures in the crash. The NJ State Police is investigating the accident. No further information is available.
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
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.
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.
May 26, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Hope Fire Company of Allentown was dispatched to 195 East Bound at mile marker 9.5 for an overturned dump truck around 3:20 pm. Upon arrival they found a dump truck overturned in the median that lost its load of stone. There was one injury reported in the accident.
Expect traffic delays on Interstate 195 East Bound mile marker 9.5 until the stone and truck can be removed from the roadway and median. The traffic is currently backed up to the Robbinsville-Allentown Exit 7
Currently a second accident has Route 524 near East Branch Closed
May 23, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 6:50 am a car overturned on Route 524. Hope Fire Company closed the roadway and stood by until the vehicle could be removed. The roadway for the first accident was reopened at 7:50 am.
A second accident occurred about 7:40 a.m. at Route 524 and East Branch Road. The Hope Fire Company has just arrived and is extinguishing a car fire related to the accident. Allentown EMS is on scene treating one person. Car fire was extinguished at 7:55 a.m. and JCP&L was dispatched.
UPDATE MORE ROADS CLOSED SEE BELOW:
May 19, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–County Road Route 524 is closed between East Branch Road and Imlaystown Hightstown Road for wires down. Hope Fire Company of Allentown and NJ State Police are on scene. JCP&L has been dispatched for repairs.
From Hope Fire Company:
⚠️⚠️⚠️MULTIPLE ROAD CLOSURES⚠️⚠️⚠️
Rt 526 is closed from Sharon Station Rd to Imlaystown-Hightstown Rd
Rt 524 is closed from Imlaystown-Hightstown Rd to the area of the Horse Park
Chambers Rd is closed from Yellow Meetinghouse Rd to Rues road
These are all due to wires or trees down in the area.
Crews are also currently operating at the Horse park for a brush fire. All units are currently operating on these calls.
Please use alternate routes if possible.
May 12, 2020
MILLSTONE-UPPER FREEHOLD-EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER/MONMOUTH)–As seen from the East Windsor Cemetery, three F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 177th Fighter Wing and a KC-135R Stratotanker from the 108th Wing fly over Millstone, East Windsor and Upper Freehold Townships as part of the NJ Salutes Fly Over honoring frontline workers in the COVID-19 battle.
The first to be seen at 11:40 am was the large KC135R Stratotanker as it made its way from the Freehold direction and turned over the “Robbinsville” FAA beacon on the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area then proceeded north towards Cranbury to continue the mission. Three F-16 Fighting Falcons were following the tanker.
Photo gallery below:
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 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 9, 2020
Wildlife Management Areas are currently open for hunting and fishing. We want to keep it that way, so we need YOU to observe proper social distancing guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
It is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to practice safe social distancing at all times!
Be safe. Be smart. Keep your distance and keep our Wildlife Management Areas open!
For more information visit www.njfishandwildlife.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.
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.
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 29, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A serious accident occurred at the intersection of Route 524 and Sharon Station Road around 1:52 pm on Sunday afternoon. Two vehicles collided sending one of the vehicles into a utility pole and severed it off at the bottom. Power lines above fell and come in contact with one of the vehicles.
Hope Fire Company, Allentown First Aid Squad, Millstone First Aid Squad, Paramedics from Mercer County, NJ State Police and a game warden in the area from NJ Division of Fish Game and Wildlife were at the scene. Jersey Central Power and Light-JCP&L was on scene to cut power and replace the broken wires and damaged pole.
The roadway is expected to be closed for an extended time while repairs are made please avoid the area.
No further information was available about the accident.
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 16, 2020
The International Association Association of Firefighters (IAFF), Professional Firefighters of NJ (PFANJ), New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJFMBA), and your local IAFF and FMBA locals ask that if you have had any flue like symptoms, have traveled to any area that you were advised to be under quarantine or under a watch to let the 9-1-1 dispatcher know so firefighters, EMS and police and take protective measures prior to providing services.
There are only so many first responders to go arround and if they get sick it will stress the system as they will be in quarantine and unable to help you for at least 14 days. Lets not have a situation again that happened in Barnegat, New Jersey with COVID-19 contamination. Do the right thing, please let the police, firefighters and EMS know over the phone.
From Barnegat, NJ Police Department,
Earlier today, one of our officers responded to a call for service that required a police response and interacted with a subject who had just flown in from Denmark and was directed by the CDC to be on a 14 day self-quarantine. The person failed to advise our officer that they had just returned from Denmark and were supposed to be quarantined.
Because Denmark has over 800 active cases of COVID-19, and out of an abundance of caution, the officer was immediately placed off-duty and will not return to duty for 14 days. The officer’s patrol car and common areas he occupied within the police department are being professionally sanitized.
It is critically important that members of the public act responsibly in adhering to self-quarantines and being forthcoming with public safety professionals if they have been outside of the country in the last 14 days or directed to self-quarantine. Failing to do so is dangerous to our officers, healthcare workers, and the public at large.
–Chief Germain
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 8, 2020
March 8, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service will be conducting prescribed burning operations in the following areas.
DIVISION B
Monmouth County
– Howell – Allaire State Park
– Millstone – Assunpink Wildlife Management Area
Ocean County
– Eagleswood – Sahara Sands
– Jackson – Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area
DIVISION C
Cape May County
– Upper – Belleplain State Forest
– Upper – Peaslee Wildlife Management Area
Cumberland County
– Vineland – Peaslee Wildlife Management Area
– Maurice River – Peaslee Wildlife Management Area
This schedule is weather dependent and subject to change.
If in doubt about the source of smoke or fire, call 9-1-1 or 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337).
More information about prescribed burning can be found here: https://www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2019/19_0029.htm
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 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 21, 2020
UPDATE: Meirs Road Construction will need to continue for an additional two weeks past the projected completion day previously stated. Should now be completed by March 10, 2020
February 8, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)– Meirs Road between Route 537 and Jonathan Holmes Road will be closed for repairs, Tuesday February 11 to Tuesday February 25. (weather dependent). A culvert at the bridge needs to be repaired and the road will need to be closed.
Local traffic from Jonathan Holmes or Route 537 to the bridge. Barriers will be placed at the bridge. First Responders will have access.
The school bus stop for these residents will be at Meirs and Jonathan Holmes.
If you signed up for NIXLE alerts from Emergency Management you would have received a text message on the road closure earlier today. If you have not signed up yet check out the article from October about it.
February 15, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Shortly after 2 pm today what appeared to be a hawk or other raptor was caught up in electrical equipment for a solar farm near the Union Transportation Trail by the Route 524 entrance. The short circuit and resulting arc made a loud explosion sending sparks in to the tall dry grass below causing a brush fire. Power issues were reported in Upper Freehold Township and neighboring Robbinsville who also receives power from this area.
The Hope Fire Company of Allentown, the NJ Forrest Fire Service and NJ State Police responded to the scene. The brush fire in the grass below was approximately 20 x 75 feet in size and was extinguished quickly with Brush 82.
The fire company remained on scene for Jersey Central Power and Light to arrive to make repairs.
