PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–About 7:15 the New Egypt Fire Department (Ocean County Plumsted Station 39) and Hope Fire Company of Allentown were dispatched to County Road 539 by County Road 537 for a dump truck vs a Ford Explorer. Upon arrival it was determined to be on the Ocean County side of the line. As a result of the accident a fuel spill from the truck caused the roadway to be closed for clean up. Fire and HAZ-MAT crews are on scene working to clean up the fuel sill.
This is from on scene reporting and radio reports. Once Plumsted Township Police release information the story will be updated.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Assemblyman Ron Dancer has introduced legislation to deter people from repeating the vile act of spitting into a police officer’s food or drink.
In July, the Park Ridge Police Department received an anonymous tip that Kevin Trejo, a Starbucks employee, was spitting into the coffee of officers who visited the establishment. He was quickly arrested and later fired by the coffee chain.
Starbucks offered an apology, but Dancer feels more needs to be done.
“An apology is nice, but this should never happen in the first place,” said Dancer (R-Ocean). “Like everyone else, police officers have the right to expect fair and equal treatment and to be served safe food and drinks. Spitting in their drink is a disgusting and disrespectful act that could lead to an officer falling ill.”
Dancer’s bill (A4765) would clarify that spitting on the food or into the drink of a law enforcement officer constitutes third-degree aggravated assault and would carry a sentence of three to five years with a mandatory fine of $15,000.
The bill would also require employers to suspend the employee if he is charged, and fire him if convicted.
“If you commit a despicable act against an officer, like spitting in their drink, you should be arrested and, if convicted, be fired,” stated Dancer. “You are not fighting for social justice when you do something like this. You are just being cruel. There is nothing heroic about spitting into an officer’s drink.”
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–On Thursday, October 1, Plumsted Township (New Egypt) officials dedicated a memorial bench at the township’s municipal building in honor of retired New Jersey State Police Captain James “Jim” Dowd #1503, who passed away on January 17, 2019, at the age of 86.
Captain Dowd served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and joined the New Jersey State Police on August 3, 1956 as a member of the 51st State Police Class. He served 30 years in various assignments and retired in 1986 at the rank of captain.
Captain Dowd was a longtime resident of Plumsted and spent considerable time serving on the township’s zoning board, planning board, and land use board. He was chosen to be honored because of his service to his country, state, and community. Captain Dowd’s life of service truly exemplified our core values of Honor, Duty, and Fidelity.
In attendance for the special ceremony were his daughter Deneen, son-in-law Lee, and his grandsons Jimmy and Tommy.
Several years ago, Captain Dowd had the honor of presenting Tommy with his graduation certificate after he completed the 106th Trooper Youth Week Class. Tommy is currently a police officer for North Hanover Township.
Also in attendance were Assemblyman Ron Dancer, Mayor Herb Marinari, Deputy Mayor and retired NJSP Lieutenant Eric Sorchik, Committeeman Leonard Grilletto, Former Troopers Association representative Kenneth Wondrack, Plumsted Police Department, North Hanover Police Department, family, and friends.
A special thank you to Plumsted Township Public Safety Director retired NJSP Major Wendy Galloway and Municipal Clerk Jennifer Witham.
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
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.
NEW EGYPT – PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–A driver was injured when his race car flipped this evening around 6:15 pm. at the New Egypt Speedway on Route 539. RWJ Barnabas Life Flight medical helicopter was called to the scene and the driver was flown to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton.
It was First Responders – Modified Championship Night at the speedway.
No update was available on the condition of the driver.
A New Jersey State Police helicopter was also dropping off a patient at Capital Health Regional Medical Center late this afternoon for an unknown condition. Shortly after the NJSP helicopter left Capital Health the RWJ Life Life Flight helicopter arrived.
Photos by: Brian McCarthy/OnScene News at Capital Health, New Egypt Photos courtesy of Mike Fox
A New Jersey State Police helicopter was also dropping off a patient at Capital Health Regional Medical Center late this afternoon for an unknown condition. Shortly after the NJSP helicopter left Capital Health the RWJ Life Life Flight helicopter arrived.
The male driver was identified as Nicholas Ryland, age 28 of Kuzyk Road, Cream Ridge, NJ. He was charged with eluding, receiving stolen property, speeding, reckless driving, improper passing and driving with a suspended driver’s license. Mr. Ryland is entered as a New Jersey wanted person at this time and anyone with information of his whereabouts is asked to contact the Jackson Police Department at 732-928-1111 or through the department’s Stop It app.
August 24, 2020
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–The Jackson Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance to locate a wanted person who was involved in a recent vehicle pursuit in a reported stolen vehicle.
On Friday August 21, 2020 at approximately 5:53 pm, Police Officer Jeff Henba was on patrol on Bowman Road when he observed a 2020 Jeep traveling at 75 miles per hour in the posted 50 mile per hour speed zone. Officer Henba was able to observe the driver of the vehicle as it passed him and turned around to conduct a motor vehicle stop.
After activating the patrol vehicle’s emergency lights, the driver of the Jeep refused to yield and continued driving on Bowman Road and turning right on Toms River Road to head north. A pursuit was initiated as the vehicle continued north on Toms River Road, reaching speeds of 95-100 miles per hour as it was driven recklessly and began passing other vehicles improperly. At this time, the officer’s supervisor terminated the pursuit.
Approximately 5 minutes after the pursuit was terminated, the agency received a call from a resident of the Woodmere Apartments located on West County Line Road reporting that the Jeep had been stolen. As the investigation progressed, officers discovered that a male subject had been stopped in the past while driving a vehicle registered to the caller reporting the Jeep stolen. When Officer Henba was able to observe the male’s photo, he positively identified him as the driver of the Jeep who had fled on him.
Officers then met with Plumsted officers and went to the last known address of the male who was identified as the driver of the Jeep as another officer met with the caller in Jackson who was reporting the vehicle stolen. Family members of the suspect advised that they did not know where the male suspect was as officers were able to locate the Jeep parked on the street a few houses down from the suspect’s residence. Plumsted Police utilized their K-9 officer and the dog tracked from the parked Jeep directly to the suspect’s front door. A search was then conducted to attempt to locate the suspect but he was not at the location. Before clearing from the location, the vehicle was impounded.
Officer Henba then continued the investigation and contacted the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office to get the following charges approved which were prepared on a warrant: eluding (2nd degree) and receiving stolen property (3rd degree).
The male driver was identified as Nicholas Ryland, age 28 of Kuzyk Road, Cream Ridge, NJ. He was charged with eluding, receiving stolen property, speeding, reckless driving, improper passing and driving with a suspended driver’s license.
Mr. Ryland is entered as a New Jersey wanted person at this time and anyone with information of his whereabouts is asked to contact the Jackson Police Department at 732-928-1111 or through the department’s Stop It app.
– The media and the public are reminded that any persons arrested or charged with any offenses or crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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
As of 11 AM this morning @PSEGdelivers is reporting that ~5,000 Hamilton customers continue to be w/o power. The majority of these outages are in the Yardville & Mercerville sections of town. We are working closely with them and will continue to update you on restoration. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/r7TF4HLPBt
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.
⚠️⚡ As crews clear hazards and make repairs, please STEER CLEAR of all downed or low-hanging power lines! Always assume they are energized + dangerous. Use extra caution where lines are tangled in trees or debris.
Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) is restoring service to customers who lost power due to Tropical Storm Isaias. JCP&L is offering free water and ice to customers remaining out of service. Customers can pick up water and ice at the following locations:
(Last updated 8/5/2020)
BURLINGTON COUNTY
Acme Supermarkets, 18 Broadway Rd. Store 7908, Browns Mills
ESSEX COUNTY
Shop Rite of Millburn, 220 Main Street, Millburn, Essex County
Kings, 778 Morris Tpke, Short Hills, Essex County
HUNTERDON COUNTY
Shop Rite of Hunterdon, 50 Rte 513 BLDG D, Clinton, Hunterdon County
Shop Rite of Hunterdon272 Rt. 202 & Rt. 31, Flemington, Hunterdon County
Kings, 531 U.S. Hwy. 22 East, Whitehouse Station, Hunterdon County
Following severe weather, our crews activate a formal process to restore customers as quickly and safely as possible. Learn how we prioritize restoration work: https://t.co/sFbFOsJlMx 2/2 pic.twitter.com/avru96VULy
UPDATE 10am: ~575K of 2.3M customers reported a power outage or damage associated w/#Isaias. We've restored power to 275K customers+have less than 300K customers still out. Crews, including mutual aid from as far as Canada, working 24/7 to restore power: https://t.co/70cgEy3JMqpic.twitter.com/nO6fMJx3oP
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The New Jersey Outdoor Alliance took a major hit this week when Governor Phil Murphy decided to close many of the wildlife management areas due to budgetary constraints. The organization released a statement on Murphy’s actions, saying that it makes no sense to furlough land management staff since they are paid by profits made from the users of the parks and license fees.
Assemblyman Ron Dancer agrees with the NJOA and called on Governor Murphy to reconsider these latest rounds of closures.
“Our park systems continue to get the short end of the stick,” stated Dancer (R-Ocean). “After fighting for weeks to get the parks to reopen, now Gov. Murphy restricts public access to the outdoor wildlife management areas. We cannot continue to allow the misuse of fees paid for fishing and hunting licenses that are dedicated to keep open, manage and maintain our wildlife management areas as pointed out by the NJOA.”
This isn’t the first time the group has challenged Murphy on his executive orders. For weeks, NJOA repeatedly called on Murphy to reopen parks which eventually led to the reopening of state parks.
These are some of the most popular fishing lakes in the Mid Jersey region that have been shut down. Even Govenor Phil Murphy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine McCabe talked about how great of an activity fishing is and being able to practice social distancing during COVID-19 briefings.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, MILLSTONE, (MONMOUTH), JACKSON, (OCEAN), NJ — Earlier today MidJersey.News has e-mailed the Division of Fish & Wildlife asking for a “clarification” on the “restricted areas” e-mail and what it means other than what is indicated on the website.
MidJersey.News has emailed the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife and waiting for clarification of what exactly “restricted” access means. NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife has emailed back and waiting for the public relations person to email back.
Late this afternoon MidJersey.News acting on a tip that entire lakes are shut down not just “boat ramps” as indicated on the State of NJ, Division of Fish & Wildlife’s web page. (see screen shots below)
MidJersey.News is perplexed trying to figure out why these particular lakes were targeted as “restricted” and shut down due to furloughs. There are no life guards since swimming is not allowed, no fees, no guard shack like at state parks, wildlife management areas are carry-in carry-out for trash = no trash pick up, emergency services such as EMS and rescue are handled by local fire companies and first aid squads, police matters are handled by NJ State Police. The wildlife management areas are low maintenance and are not labor intensive.
Fishing is a “great social activity” and using that 6 foot fishing pole is a great way to measure social distancing while out fishing. Now NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife has closed some of the most popular fishing lakes in the Mid-Jersey region a great activity that is COVID-19 compliant.
Even Govenor Phil Murphy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine McCabe talked about how great of an activity fishing is and being able to practice social distancing, see below transcript from March 31, 2020:
Commissioner of Environmental Protection Catherine McCabe:
“If you love to fish, a great social activity, we have good news for you. I shouldn’t say a great social activity – I actually meant to say a great solo, not social. Trout season will open ten days early tomorrow, Wednesday April 1st, for catch and release only. This is to help us to help you maintain safe social distance while fishing. We’ve released the state-raised trout early to disperse them before fishing season opens so that you can disperse, too as you move out to catch them, instead of everyone gathering around the hatchery on day one of Trout Season, which is traditional.
If you find others gathered at your favorite fishing hole, consider trying a new location this year. The fish have moved out and you should, too. And at a minimum, please spread out to at least the required six-foot social distance. Conveniently, this is the typical length of a fishing pole so it should be easy for you to measure. And for better fishing you’ll probably want more distance anyway. If someone gets too close to you, have a friendly conversation about that six-foot distance or find another spot.
So, please do feel free to go out there and get some exercise and enjoy yourselves, whether in a park or a forest or along a fishing stream. But please, please be responsible and remember that social distancing is absolutely essential to keeping you, your families and our communities safe, and to help us all flatten the curve of this serious viral outbreak. Thank you.”
Governor Phil Murphy:
“And the notion also, to be able to go outside and get some fresh air in a responsible way has to be a part of what our plan is about.”
“So, I just want to reiterate, whether it’s fishing on that six-foot pole, which I think is a great way to think about it, or outside walking, hiking, jogging, please, please, please keep your distance. Thank you. Again, it’s great having you and thank you for everything you do. And Sean, nice to have you with us as well.”
According to the NJ DEP, Division of Fish & Wildlife, The Wildlife Management Area System web page as currently posted as of 7/8/2020 it indicates that Assunpink: “Main Lake Boat Ramp” “Rising Sun Boat Ramp” “Stone Tavern Boat Ramp” “Shotgun and Archery Range” Prospertown Lake: “Main Lake Boat Ramp” Collier’s Mills: “Shotgun, Archery and Rifle Ranges”
The website does not indicate that the entire lake system would be shut down but signs and barricades as seen below indicate differently:
Entrances to Assunpink Lake, Stone Tavern Lake, Rising Sun and Prospertown Lake all closed as seen below, all lakes are labeled “Restricted Area” and closed:
Entrances to Assunpink Lake, Stone Tavern Lake, Rising Sun and Prospertown Lake all closed as “Restricted Area” as seen July 8, 2020. Photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr.
See list of other “restrictions” at Wildlife Management Areas throughout the state including range “restrictions” at Assunpink and Colliers Mills below:
UPPER FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Due to temporary state-mandated employee furloughs, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish & Wildlife is temporarily restricting access to some Wildlife Management Areas throughout the month of July.
New Jersey State Government employee furloughs are underway for the month of July as a result of agreements reached between the State and public employee unions to address the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 public health emergency.
The DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife manages the state’s Wildlife Management Areas, and is authorized to limit access to these areas in order to protect public health, safety, and the environment during this time pursuant to N.J.A.C. 7:25-2.26.
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–New Egypt Warriors Against Racism, Black Lives Matter protested today in town. The event started at 11:30 am on Front Street and moved to Main Street at 1 pm.
Protesters could be seen and heard on Main street from the traffic light at Jackobstown Road to Church Street as they moved though town.
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.
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!
This barricade is at the main parking lot of the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. If you don’t practice social distancing the State will close Wildlife Management Areas. Don’t let that happen practice social distancing while fishing and other activities.
Practice the guidelines on how to fish with social distancing in NJ during the COVID-19 crisis.
It’s with a very heavy heart that I write this message to you. I’ve received word from county officials that Plumsted Township has lost its first resident to COVID-19. By policy, the Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) does not release individual information about those who test positive. So, I have no further information other than we’ve lost one of our own. As a tight-knit community, I’m sure you share my sadness at this news. I’m sure you join me in sending your prayers and deepest condolences to the grieving loved ones of this individual.
The seriousness of this virus takes on new significance when it strikes so close to home. I’m grateful to those of you who have been honoring the “Stay at Home” order. Thank you for responsibly practicing social distancing. I understand how difficult it is to be separated from the friends and family we love. I also understand that some of you have no choice but to be out because you’re part of the front line that provides essential services to others. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the sacrifices you’re making to keep others healthy and safe.
Those sacrifices are making a difference. To date, we’ve had only four confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Plumsted Township. Yes, in the coming days, we may see that number rise, as drive-thru testing is now available for residents at the new Ocean County Community College Testing Center. But I, my fellow Township Committeemen, and our township staff are committed to doing all we can to keep that number as low as possible. Our police, fire, and emergency services personnel are equally committed to your care.
Yesterday, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department issued a Nixle alert informing all Ocean County residents to stay off the roads unless you need to make a necessary food trip, you need medical attention, or you are an essential worker. It’s imperative that we work together to honor the temporary restrictions that have been put in place for our safety.
This situation will pass faster if we cooperate with our officials. Now is not the time to take an “every man for himself” approach. Now is the time to love our neighbors as ourselves. Even if you believe you are healthy, please stay home unless it’s absolutely necessary. We don’t want to risk losing another Plumsted Township resident. Each family is just too important.
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.
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.
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
To slow the spread of #COVID19, I'm ordering: •Closure of ALL pre-K, K-12 schools, higher ed insts. beginning 3/18 •Closure of ALL casinos, racetracks, theaters, gyms •Closure of ALL non-essential retail, recreational, & entertainment bizs after 8pm •Banning gatherings of 50+ pic.twitter.com/mmZe0bZWgb
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.”
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.
What is the 2020 Census?The goal of the census is to count every person living in the United States, once, only once and in the right place. Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution mandates that this population and housing count occur every 10 years. Census data guide how more than $675 billion of federal funding is distributed to states and communities each year.
Am I required to respond to the 2020 Census?Yes, you are required by law to respond to the 2020 Census (Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193). We are conducting the 2020 Census under the authority of Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141, 193 and 221. This collection of information has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The eight-digit OMB approval number is 0607-1006. If this number were not displayed, we could not conduct the census.
Are my answers confidential and private?Yes. The Census Bureau is required by law to protect your information. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks through screening of the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted in order to protect your privacy.Title 13 of the U.S. Code protects the confidentiality of all your information. Violating the confidentiality of a respondent is a federal crime with serious penalties, including a federal prison sentence of up to five years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Only authorized individuals have access to the stored data, and the information you provide to the Census Bureau may only be used by a restricted number of authorized individuals who are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of your individual responses. Your answers cannot be used against you by any government agency or court.For more information about how we protect your information, please visit our website at census.gov and click on “Data Protection and Privacy Policy” at the bottom of the home page. This page also includes information about the collection, storage, and use of these records. Click on “System of Records Notices (SORN)” and look for Privacy Act System of Records Notice COMMERCE/CENSUS-5, Decennial Census Program.
Who should complete the 2020 Census questionnaire?This 2020 Census questionnaire should be completed by the person who owns or rents the living quarters or any other person who is at least 15 years of age with knowledge of the household.
How do I change my answers?For questions where you must choose a single response from a list, clicking another response will change your answer to that response.If it is a “select all that apply” question, you may click on a selected check box to unselect the box and remove it as one of your answers.
How long will the 2020 Census questionnaire take?The Census Bureau estimates that completing the questionnaire will take 10 minutes on average.
How will the Census Bureau use the information I provide?By law, the Census Bureau can only use your responses to produce statistics.
Is it safe to complete the 2020 Census questionnaire online?Yes. For each online questionnaire, we are required to provide an explanation to respondents about the confidentiality of the data and the laws that protect those data (e.g., Title 13, U.S. Code Section 9 (a)).Per the Federal Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2015, your data are protected from cybersecurity risks through screening of the systems that transmit your data. All web data submissions are encrypted in order to protect your privacy, even in the remote chance that your responses are intercepted.More information on this topic can be found on the Data Protection and Privacy Policy webpage (http://www.census.gov/privacy/).
Will the results be published?Yes. By law, the Census Bureau can only use your responses to produce statistics. The Census Bureau is not permitted to publicly release your responses in a way that could identify you or your household. The Census Bureau plans to make results of this study available to the general public. Results will be presented in aggregate form and no personally identifiable information will be published.Information quality is an integral part of the pre-dissemination review of the information disseminated by the Census Bureau (fully described in the Census Bureau’s Information Quality Guidelines at https://www.census.gov/about/policies/quality/guidelines.html). Information quality is also integral to the information collection conducted by the Census Bureau and is incorporated into the clearance process by the Paperwork Reduction Act.
Do I have to complete the 2020 Census questionnaire for my household members?Yes, you will be asked to provide information for each household member.
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).
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.
The top winner—Best in Show—is recognized at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., and is displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol. The 2019 winner of Best in Show from the Fourth Congressional District was “Family Tree,” by Anna Effenberger, of Colts Neck, a 2019 graduate at the Ranney School. Anna’s work remains on display in the Capitol through June 2020.
“Migration of the Nestingbacks,” an original work by Catherine Epps, from Steinert High School in Hamilton took home an Honorable Mention last year.
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
Point Pleasant Borough and Middletown are split between Congressional Districts. If students live in either of these towns and are unsure of their District, please call 609-585-7878 and provide the student’s complete home address. The staff will be able to research in which District the student lives.
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NEW EGYPT, NJ (OCEAN)–The Robbinsville High School boys basketball team won their away game against New Egypt High school tonight with a score of 53-28.
TRENTON, N.J. – Thirteen municipalities in the 12th legislative district will receive more than $3.25 million in grants from the Department of Transportation, Assemblymen Ron Dancer and Rob Clifton announced today.
“This funding will help get vital roadway projects moving and will make much-needed improvements for the benefit of motorists,” said Dancer (R-Ocean).
The towns in Dancer and Clifton’s district will use the money for roadway preservation, one of the seven project categories under the municipal aid program. The others include roadway safety, quality of life, mobility, bikeway, pedestrian safety and bridge preservation.
“Local commuters and families deserve safer roads, resurfaced roads and peace of mind when travelling in our district. These funds will provide a better and safer experience,” said Clifton (R-Monmouth).
NJDOT provides 75 percent of the grant amount when a town awards a contract and the remaining 25 percent upon completion of the project.
The following towns and projects in district 12 have been awarded funding:
Municipality Grant Amount Name of Project Chesterfield Township $244,000.00 Sykesville Rd Improvements Phase II New Hanover Township $244,000.00 Cookstown Hockamick Road North Hanover Township $240,000.00 Schoolhouse Road Phase II Old Bridge Township $312,338.00 Phillips Drive Improvements Allentown Borough $180,000.00 Improvements to Waldron Road, Quinn Road, and Hamilton Street Englishtown Borough $154,000.00 Heritage Drive and Raymond Court Improvements Manalapan Township $270,000.00 Improvements to Gordons Corner Road Matawan Borough $200,000.00 Overbrook Lane Improvements Millstone Township $180,000.00 Nurko Road Roosevelt Borough $255,000.00 Improvements to School Lane Upper Freehold Township $330,000.00 Burlington Path Road Jackson Township $425,000.00 Improvements to Wright DeBow Road, Phase II Plumsted Township $218,000.00 Tower Road Resurfacing
November 22, 2019 (List will be updated at events are scheduled)
By: Dennis Symons, Jr.
Friday November 29, 2019:
HIGHTSTOWN, NJ–Christmas Lighting Ceremony and Santa Parade sponsored by Hightstown Engine Company # 1 Ladies Auxiliary. The event starts at 6:30 pm. The Santa parade will begin at Leshin Lane down South Main Street through the center of town to the firehouse. The “Man in Red” will end up at the firehouse to pull the switch to turn on the holiday lights in the downtown area. Everyone is then invited into the firehouse where the children may visit with Santa and have their picture taken ($3.00 each) and enjoy refreshments.
Saturday November 30, 2019:
10 am to 6 pm:
ALLENTOWN, NJ–ABCA, Allentown Business Community Association–Small Business Saturday. Shop in and around Allentown, NJ for Small Business Saturday on Saturday November 30, 2019 between 10 am and 6 pm As you shop tag your Instagram, Twitter, and other social media with #ShopSmall to help spread the word about Small Business Saturday
6 pm:
ALLENTOWN, NJ– Allentown Annual Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 30th at 6PM at Pete Sensi Park hosted by ACBA, Allentown Business Community Association and Allentown Economic Development Commission. The event will have Stone Bridge Middle School Red Bird Singers, free cider at the Moth Coffee House, free cocoa and cookies at Bruno’s Bicycles-One Sweet Ride, Hope Fire Company will escort Santa to the Allentown Public Library Association and more. Follow this link for more information.
Tuesday December 3, 2019
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ–Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Celebration at the Robbinsville Senior Center 1117 Route 130, Robbinsville, NJ (municipal complex) Events start at 5 pm. Arts and Crafts sponsored by C.A.R.E., Gingerbread House Displays by Girl Scouts, Photos with Santa, Free Hot Chocolate by David Bradley, Robbinsville High School Choir, and Tree and Menorah Lighting.
December 6 & 7, 2019
HAMILTON, NJ–Hamilton Winter Wonderland Event held at Kuser Farm Park, on Friday and Saturday December 6 & 7, 2019 from 5 pm to 8 pm on both nights. This is a free to attend event. This beloved annual event, which is a favorite among families with young children, includes a number of exciting activities for children, such as:
Christmas Tree Lighting Friday, December 6 at 6pm
Food Drive: Non-perishable foods to be collected
Toy Drive: Collection of unwrapped new children’s toys
Visit Santa’s Village (free photo with Santa)
Ride our “Holiday Express Train”
Petting Zoo
Tour historic Kuser Mansion (decorated for the holidays)
Jersey Valley Model Railroad Club display (in Mansion basement)
Take in the decorations and lights throughout Kuser Farm Park
Visit Santa’s Secret Workshop of crafters
Make your own “reindeer food” to help direct Rudolph
Musical Entertainment
Food Vendors and more
December 7, 2019
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ–An Olde Fashioned Tree Lighting Ceremony, Saturday December 7, 2019 at the Plumsted Township Municipal Building 121 Evergreen Road, New Egypt, NJ 08533. Event starts at 6 p.m. and will be held rain, snow or shine. Santa will make a special appearance by arriving on New Egypt Volunteer Fire Company’s fire engine. Take photographs with Santa. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served. Pop Warner will be singing carols, The Plumsted Township Council for the Arts will have the Gingerbread Contest from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item(s) for the annual School Food Drive at the tree ceremony.
WEST WINDSOR, NJ–Annual Community Tree Lighting Ceremony Sunday December 8, 2019 at Ron Rogers Arboretum, Clarksville Road and County Road 571 event starts at 7 pm. Program will include a chior performance from the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, performance by WWP-South High School First Edition, and a fireworks display. There will also be free refreshments during the event.
December 9, 2019
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ–Friendly’s is sponsoring Holiday’s at the Foxmoor Shopping Center. There will be a Christmas Tree Lighting, Menorah Lighting, Visit by Santa Claus, Allentown High School Choir, Karaoke, and gifts for the kids. The event is held at Foxmoor Shopping Center and will start at 6 pm.
December 13, 2019
HAMILTON, NJ–Hamilton Little Lads Holiday Shopping Event, 400 Edward Ave, Hamilton, NJ 08610 Event will be from 5 pm to 9 pm
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP–WHERE: New Egypt Fire House 59 Main Street, New Egypt WHEN: Saturday, November 16, 2019 TIME: 9 am to 11 am You must bring proof of previous rabies vaccination or a current license to the clinic in order for your dog to receive a 3 year immunization. If you do not have proof of a prior vaccine, the shot will be valid for 1 year. Please have your dog(s) on a leash and your cat(s) in a carrier or a pillowcase. You do not need to be a Plumsted resident for your pet to receive a vaccination. Any questions, please contact the Municipal Clerk at 609/758-2241, ext 101.
Incumbents Witt, Ciaccio and Schuberth Re-Elected to Township Council
By: Robbinsville Township from press release
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ – (November 5, 2019) – Following a contentious race for Robbinsville Township Council, incumbents Ron Witt, Christine Ciaccio and Dan Schuberth were elected to another four years as part of a landslide victory Tuesday over first-time challengers Paul Kranz, Rakhi Upadhyay and Roland Allen.
The ticket of Witt, Ciaccio and Schuberth won all 9 districts in convincing fashion with 6,435 votes (68.8 percent), including mail-in totals. All three incumbents surpassed 2,000 votes with Schuberth setting the pace at 2,261.
In the race for Robbinsville School Board, incumbents Craig Heilman (2,191) and President Jane Barker (2,154), along with a fine showing from newcomer Chris Emigholz (2,112), were the three candidates elected to four-year terms. Challenger Avery Hutchinson (1,207) rounded out the BOE voting.
The current Township Council of Witt, Ciaccio, Schuberth vice president Mike Cipriano and Vince Calcagno have worked with Mayor Dave Fried and Administration to lower municipal taxes four straight years, bring seven new tenants online in the Foxmoor Plaza and have helped push the amount of land set aside for open space to over 1,000 acres, among other accomplishments.
All vote tallies are unofficial until being certified by the Mercer County Clerk.
Re-elected to Robbinsville Council: Christine Ciaccio, Ron Witt, and Dan Schuberth
Victory celebration held at Lola Resturant for incumbents Ron Witt, Christine Ciaccio and Dan Schuberth
Hamilton Twp FMBA at victory party with Mayor Elect Jeff Martin and the winners of Hamilton’s election
Pictured (from left to right) are: Council Member John Zoller; Mayor Janice S. Mironov; Deputy Mayor Marc Lippman, and Council Member Peter Yeager. Photo provided by East Windsor Township
Photos by: Dennis Symons, Jr. from Robbinsville, Hamilton provided by Hamilton Twp. FMBA, East Windsor Township from East Windsor Township
Links to results from each county provided by each board of election and county clerk’s office:
**All winners announced below are unofficial until announced by the County Clerk in each respective county. **
Upper Freehold Township
Running unopposed incumbents Stanley Moslowski, Jr. and LoriSue Mount were reelected to Township Council.
Upper Freehold Regional School District
William Borkowski (Allentown) won running unopposed
Vanessa DePompo and Christine Ciccarone (Upper Freehold) won running unopposed.
Allentown Borough
Allentown was a really tight race as of right now it appears that Thomas Fritts won race for mayor. Martha Johnson and Daniel “Danny” Payson won council seats. Race is too close to call until certified by County Clerk and Board of Elections
Millstone Township
Albert Ferro ran unopposed for township council.
Millstone Township Board of Education
788 write in votes no name listed
Roosevelt Boro
Peggy Malkin ran unopposed for mayor, Michael B. Hamilton and Luke d. Dermody won 2 year full council seats and Chad Vroman won a 1 year unexpired term for a vacancy.
Hamilton Township Mercer County
Winning a the seat for Mayor was Jeff Martin. Pasquale “Pat” Papero, Jr. and Nancy Phillips won township council seats.
Hightstown Borough
Steven Misiura and Joshua Jackson won 3 year terms on council. Joseph Cicalese won a one year unexpired term on council.
East Windsor
Janice S. Mironov, Marc Lippman, Peter Yeager and John Zoller won four year terms on council.
East Windsor Board of Education
Ram K. Ramachandran, Bertrand Fougnies and Nicole LaRusso won seats
Plumstead Township
Herbert F. Marinari and Robert W. Bowen won 3 year terms on township committee. Leonard A. Grilleto won a 1 year unexpired term on township committee.
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