ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Fire Department and Robbinsville Township Police are at a ground transformer that had caught fire and exploded near Chadwick Court causing a power outage around 10:30 pm tonight.
Power is out near Pond Road, Hutchinson Road including Walden Circle, Andover Place, Notting Hill sections.
PSE&G is notified and responding. A text message sent to a PSE&G customer said estimated restore of 1:45 am or later.
The PSE&G reporting system estimates 1,076 customers are without service in Robbinsville.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville firefighters will receive a modest but critical federal grant to be used to purchase essential personal protection equipment (PPE) needed to protect the public—and public servants—during the ongoing coronavirus emergency, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-Hamilton) today.
The more than $13,000 in federal funding “will help pay for masks, protective gowns and suits for first responders operating in COVID-19 safety practices,” he said. The money comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, the comprehensive, recovery bill Smith supported to help states, hospitals, first responders, workers, businesses and communities severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Our firefighters and first responders are often the first on the scene to help a resident in distress, and they need good, reliable, medical grade quality PPE,” stated Smith (NJ-04). “The key functions of the CARES Act, and why Congress moved it so quickly, was to help at all levels, from small businesses and individual workers, to states, counties and towns… and that includes our local fire departments, police and EMTs. I applaud Mayor Fried and Chief Schaffener for taking the initiative in applying for this grant.”
The Operations and Safety Grant comes from the Department of Homeland Security’s FY 2020 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program COVID-19 Supplemental (AFG-S) awards. The grant is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.
“The purpose of the supplemental funding programs are to get grants directly into the hands of our firefighters, EMS and fire training academies to boost their ability to protect the health and safety of both the public and first-responders by helping them acquire PPE and other needed supplies related to the COVID-19 outbreak,” Smith explained. The AFG-S objectives are to provide resources that equip personnel to respond to the pandemic and support community resilience. Smith said the funds will be applied to pay the lion’s share of an order of $14,329 in PPE. The funding will allow the Robbinsville Township Fire Department to purchase 65 respirators and filters, 45 reusable coveralls and 75 reusable goggles, as well as disposable PPE, including 750 isolation gowns and 3,000 surgical masks.
“Being prepared for every situation is what sets our health care workers and first responders apart,” Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried said. “That means having the right personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly in the age of COVID-19 with the dangers our men and women on the front lines face every single day. Grants such as this AFG award help towns such as Robbinsville enormously, both in terms of supply and with our municipal budget so taxpayers can feel some relief. On behalf of Fire Chief Dan Schaffener, Police Chief Chris Nitti and our EMTs, thank you to Rep. Chris Smith for his constant efforts over the years in helping us secure these much-needed and greatly appreciated funds.”
ROBBINSVILLE, EAST WINDSOR, HAMILTON, NJ (MERCER)–If you were lucky enough to be outside this afternoon around 5:15 you would have seen a military fly over called “Salute To The Great Cities Of The American Revolution” en route from New York City to Philadelphia.
Trenton, NJ the home of the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area where just north of there General George Washington crossed the Delaware on December 25, 1776 was not on the official list of the “Great Cities”
Still the region from the Monmouth Battlefield, extending though Cranbury, Hightstown, Robbinsville, Hamilton and turning at Trenton towards Philadelphia was still able to see the fly over even though it was not officially on the program.
Spectators were able to see a variety of aircraft from the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Marine Corps including: U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, followed by B-1, B-2 and B-52 bombers, F-15 and F-22 fighters and U.S. Marine Corps F-35 fighters in transit from New York City to Philadelphia.
Secretary Esper approved a Department of the Interior request for DOD support to the 2020 Salute to America. DOD will provide aerial, musical and ceremonial support to this year’s celebration in Washington, D.C. This year’s support will also include a flyover of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, as well an aerial salute to several cities that played roles in the American Revolution.
The highlight of this year’s celebration will be our salute to the Great Cities of the American Revolution. The flyovers will begin in Boston and proceed to New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore. From there they will join other Department of Defense and heritage aircraft in the Salute to America over our nation’s capital. In all, roughly 1,700 service members will support the celebrations.
The aircraft are scheduled to overfly each of the cities, beginning at approximately 4:00 pm, then fly on to the next city. U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps jets will fly over in five waves. The flyovers will be led by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, followed by B-1, B-2 and B-52 bombers, F-15 and F-22 fighters and U.S. Marine Corps F-35 fighters.
BOSTON: The aircraft are scheduled to overfly the center of the city at approximately 4:00 pm approaching from the northeast at 1,000 feet above the ground. Multiple aircraft will overfly the U.S.S. Constitution and then proceed over Fenway Park before departing the city.
NEW YORK: The aircraft are scheduled to fly down the Hudson River at approximately 5:00 pm and pass just east of the Statue of Liberty.
PHILADELPHIA: The aircraft are scheduled to overfly the center of the city at approximately 5:15 pm approaching from the northeast at 1,000 feet above the ground. Multiple aircraft will fly over Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell and then proceed southwest out of the city.
BALTIMORE: The aircraft are scheduled to overfly Fort McHenry at approximately 5:30 pm approaching from the northeast at 1,000 feet above the ground. Multiple aircraft will overfly Fort McHenry before turning south out of the city.
The flyovers provide an opportunity for DOD to demonstrate the capabilities and professionalism of the United States Armed Forces. Flying hours are a sunk cost for the Department of Defense, and these aircraft and crews would be using these hours for proficiency and training at other locations if they were not conducting these flyovers.
DOD is proud to help celebrate the nation’s 244th birthday. We are grateful for our nation’s support as we defend our country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Photos below by: Dennis Symons from East Windsor looking towards Hightstown and Robbinsville
“Salute To The Great Cities Of The American Revolution” as seen from the hill at the East Windsor Cemetery looking towards Hightstown and Robbinsville. Photos by: Dennis Symons MidJersey.News
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Construction of the Meadowbrook Trail connection along Tantum Park is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, July 7. The project includes close to 2,000 feet of asphalt for walking and biking on the south side of Meadowbook Road and will feature improved road crossings, including a blinking light on the far east end. Construction of the new path is expected to take 14 days, with the crossing features completed soon thereafter. Motorists should expect some lane restrictions during this time. The Meadowbrook Trail Connection is being paid for by a NJ Department of Transportation grant.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–MidJersey.News sees another month of increased growth in June with 869,660 page views and 255,402 visitors. The average page view per visitor was 3.41 and 184 posts (stories) published in June.
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BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Around 11 am Robbinsville Township Fire Department and Bordentown Township Fire Department were dispatched to the NJ Turnpike at 56.1 north bound inner roadway for an accident with reported fire. Upon arrival Bordentown Township firefighters found a single car accident with one person needing transport. The Robbinsville Fire Department ambulance transported one person to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton. No further information about the accident was available.
Robbinsville Township Fire Department ambulance transported one person to Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton from this accident in Bordentown Township this morning.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Just after 11:00 pm tonight a truck collided with a utility pole in the 300 block of Gordon Road. The truck then continued on after cracking the utility pole in half and ripping down wires. The Robbinsville Township Police Department is investigating. Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L) and Verizon have been contacted for repairs. One lane is expected to be shut down until the pole can be replaced.
Photos and story by: Emergency Education & Development, LLC
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Yesterday Robbinsville Township Fire Department’s A-platoon joined other agencies from across the state in Allentown NJ and attended a tactical EMS class put on by Emergency Education & Development, LLC of Edgewater Park NJ; titled Tactical Emergency Casualty Care.
This class incorporates combat style military care and civilian EMS operations to prepare responders to respond to Active Shooter/Hostile Incidents as part of a Rescue Task Force concept. The instructors were Firefighters, EMTs, Paramedics and Police Officers with over 100 years of emergency service experience.
Students were faced with real life scenarios with “causalities” mocked up looking like real life injuries and face real life skill stations while wearing ballistic person protective gear such as mock tactical vests with ballistic helmets.
Photos and story by: Emergency Education & Development, LLC
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Several accidents have occurred on the NJ Turnpike this evening at 9:52 pm at Exit 8 in Hightstown a tractor trailer overturned with injures at the north bound on ramp to the NJTP. Hightstown Fire Department and Hightstown First Aid Squad were at the scene. Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded but was not needed.
At 3:07 am the Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded to the NJ Turnpike at mile marker 59 for a single car accident with heavy front end damage. It appears one person was injured in this accident. The person was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton.
Around 3:30 am in Cranbury at mile marker 70 Cranbury First Aid Squad responded to a motor vehicle accident with three injures. Patients from that accident were transported to Princeton Medical Center Plainsboro.
At 3:07 am the Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded to the NJ Turnpike at mile marker 59 for a single car accident with heavy front end damage. It appears one person was injured in this accident. The person was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)—A Robbinsville Township Police Officer in the are of West Manor Way called in a truck fire at 8:53 am. The Robbinsville Township Fire Department was dispatched and mutual aid was sent from Bordentown Township Fire Department and Hope Fire Company of Allentown.
When Robbinsville Township firefighters arrived they found the tractor part of a tractor-trailer well involved at mile marker 61.9 south bound outer lanes (truck lanes). Firefighters knocked down the fire using a 1 ¾” hand line, when Bordentown Township arrived they supplied additional manpower and water to Squad 40’s tank.
Not other information about the fire is available at this time.
The date also falls with in “National Fire Prevention Week” October 4 to October 10, 2020
June 23, 2020
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Police Department as well as other police departments across the Nation will be celebrating “National Night Out” on October 6, 2020. The change this year is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and give more time from the usual August date to get ready.
During the past National Night Out events held in Robbinsville you can expect tours of the police department, K9 demonstrations, treats, fire prevention displays and fire safety trailer, extrication demonstration by the fire department.
National Fire Prevention Week is October 4 to October 10, 2020 expect to find fire prevention displays at National Night Out Events.
This year, the Robbinsville Police National Night Out will take place on Tuesday October 6, 2020. We will be announcing more details as we get closer to the event. We hope to have a clearer picture of the guidelines in place for Covid-19 prevention at that time.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Millions of neighbors take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities from all fifty states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide. We look forward to meeting all of our wonderful residents, business owners, and community stakeholders at this event!
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File photos from the 2016 National Night Out held at the Robbinsville Township Police Department
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–There have been multiple accidents on the NJ Turnpike this morning, this one is at mile marker 58 north bound near the Woodrow Wilson Service Area. A van traveling north bound lost control and overturned several people were injured with non-life-threatening injures.
Robbinsville Township Fire Department, Bordentown Township Fire Department and EMS were on scene. NJ State Police is investigating the crash.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded to a vehicle rollover on the New Jersey Turnpike around 8 am. The accident happened just North of Exit 7A at mile marker 61.4 North Bound on the inner roadway, it appears that the vehicle rolled over and landed upright on the median. Luckily there were only minor injures treated on scene by Robbinsville Fire EMS that did not require transport to the hospital. No further information is available about the accident.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Father’s Day fishing event was held this morning at the Town Center Lake from 8 am to 11 am. The weather was great and there was a good turnout for the event.
TRENTON AND ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free.
Robbinsville celebrated this historic day as a community at the Town Center Gazebo by the lake. Several speakers talked about their feelings and experiences to those in attendance.
In Trenton Governor Phil Murphy delivered a keynote address at a Juneteenth ceremony at the Friendship Baptist Church in Trenton.
Press pool story below by: Linn Washington Jr., The South Jersey Journal
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, during a keynote address at a Juneteenth ceremony in Trenton, declared that the goal of American society must be to ensure that the pain from past and present racist inequalities “does not become the pain of tomorrow.”
While listing the actions his administration has taken to ameliorate systemic inequalities Gov Murphy emphasized that all citizens of New Jersey have a stake in supporting substantive change.
“The reason why black lives matter is because we are one state, one family…This must be a personal call to action.”
Murphy pointed out that the systemic racism that permeates American society stunts the path to freedom for all.
“This is about all of us together,” Murphy said noting that demonstrations for change have occurred in white as well as black communities across New Jersey. He saw progress in the fact that the 425 protests in NJ since the death of George Floyd resulted in just 58 arrests, unlike mass arrests during strident enforcement in other states.
Addressing the gathering that included elected officials and clergy from across New Jersey assembled inside the Friendship Baptist Church In Trenton, Murphy listed a series of actions initiated by his administration that he said placed his state “squarely at the forefront of the national fight for justice.”
Items Murphy listed in the arena of criminal justice reform included restoration of voting rights to persons on parole and probation, streamlining the process to expunge criminal records which helps persons seeking employment and New Jersey’s Attorney General initiating policies to increase transparency in policing along with changing the culture of policing.
Juneteenth is a celebration gaining wider recognition that dates to the end of America’s Civil War. On June 19, 1865 a Union Army General arrived in Galveston, Texas where announced that slavery was over, a fact not then known to blacks in that far end of the former Confederacy.
NJ Lt Gov Sheila Oliver, during her remarks at the celebration, also extolled the progress being made in New Jersey from improvements in educational opportunities and increases in the minimum wage to environmental justice initiatives.
Oliver said New Jersey has benefited from having a Governor who knew the struggles of black people “long before Black Lives Matter caught fire” throughout America.
Gov Murphy, when concluding his remarks, stressed that on the issue of addressing institutional racism “It is well past time to account for our past.”
First, I want to give Glory and Honor to God for allowing me to be here today.
To my Friend Reverend John Taylor, I give greetings to you and the First Lady, and to the Deacons, Trustees, Officers, members, and friends and family of Friendship Baptist Church.
Pastor Taylor, I must also thank you for your transformational leadership here in Trenton, and for all you do not just within the spiritual community here, but in the greater community that extends well beyond these walls. You have stood with the people of this great city during triumphant days and days where there have been trials.
You have stood with me in our commitment to socio-economic justice. We have known each other since before I took office, and I have always appreciated your guidance and support.
And, I thank you for inviting me to your house to celebrate this Juneteenth.
It was this day 155 years ago when Union General Gordon Granger, a white man, landed with troops in Galveston, Texas, to spread the word that all enslaved Blacks were, at last, free.
Yet, President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on New Year’s Day, 1863 – 900 days earlier.
For 900 days, thousands of enslaved Black Americans continued to toil in the most horrible of conditions, not knowing that they were free men and women.
But, look at the history of Black America since then. Yes, we can celebrate the end of the literal and physical chains which held Blacks as chattel, but in doing so we cannot ignore the figurative chains which have kept our proud Black communities from achieving the full equality which they deserve, which they have been promised, and which is their most basic right.
This Juneteenth, it is Black America rising to tell us that we can no longer ignore the 401-year history of slavery and systemic racism – 401 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived on the shores of this continent – a history that is writ-large in the inequalities in wages and wealth, health care, in housing, in education, in economic opportunity, and on and on down the line, and, including in treatment by law enforcement.
The long history of slavery and the stain of racism is directly linked to the conditions of African Americans today. Systemic racism has not only existed in America and in New Jersey, but it still exists.
Those of us who have been granted privilege because of the color of our skin must recognize the many generations of pain which have been visited upon those without that privilege. I also recognize and celebrate the new generation of Americans who refuse to inherit this legacy.
Across our nation – and, indeed our world – hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people are awakening to the words written in Scripture, the Book of John Chapter 8, Verse 32, “you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.”
Too many among us have kept our blinders on for too long. It has taken more than 400 years for the truth that “Black Lives Matter” to finally be given meaning and humanity.
For too long, and in too many corners, we couldn’t see, or – even worse, in some cases did not want to see – the truth that systemic racism still to this day permeates our society, and our failure to address that truth has stunted our path to freedom.
Not your path to freedom – our path to freedom. This is not about one man or one woman. This is about all of us. Together.
And, let us always remember, that these values are the ones we must also bring to our fight for justice for our immigrant communities, who also face discrimination.
The reason that Black Lives Matter is because We are one state, one family, and we rise and fall – and we march and protest – as one. Saying Black Lives Matter is saying that in the struggle for the soul of humanity that we must acknowledge a community that has been victimized for 401 years by racism and discrimination.
Saying Black Lives Matter boldly states that we will not inherit your racism. We will fight it wherever it raises its ugly head.
Several weeks ago, I had an opportunity to attend a rally in Westfield organized by a 16-year-old student who challenged her city and school to look inside their souls and to proclaim, “Black Lives Matter.” And there, I saw thousands of people – mostly White residents who have awoken the reality of what it means to be good allies – proclaim to the world that Black Lives Matter.
However, Black Lives Matter are not just words. It is a personal call to action.
Let me be clear, systemic racism is a crisis that has infected every aspect of American life. And I will work tirelessly to address it and its cascading effects.
I will continue to work with my advisors, members of my Cabinet, and the Legislature – especially with the members of the Legislative Black Caucus, led by Senator Ron Rice and Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter – on policy that will highlight and work to root-out the disparities in housing, income, transportation, education, and other issue areas, that have a direct impact on Black and Brown people.
And, I did not decide that Black Lives Matter last week – this has been a lifelong commitment.
Black Lives Matter in wages and wealth creation, so we will push for additional meaningful economic opportunities for our families.
Black Lives Matter in criminal justice reform, so we will continue reshaping a more community-centered form of law enforcement.
Black Lives Matter in housing, where we will continue to provide resources to support affordable homeownership and those needing rental assistance.
Black Lives Matter in infant and maternal health, where we must eliminate disparate treatment in medical care.
Black Lives Matter in education, from pre-school to a college degree, where we must make equity a core value in how we develop education policy.
Black Lives Matter in the environment, where we must eliminate unequal community impacts.
And, Black Lives Matter in Camden, Atlantic City, and Trenton, and in suburban and rural communities alike.
Already, we have taken big steps together.
We have put our minimum wage on a solid path to $15 an hour. We have given everyone who works the guarantee of a paid sick day and access to expanded paid family leave. We know these progressive steps predominately benefit people of color, who have held a disproportionate number of low-wage jobs.
We have increased funding for our public schools and investments in pre-K – a cornerstone for building a stronger future for countless thousands of kids. And we started a historic program which today is allowing thousands of residents to attend community college and get their associate’s degree tuition-free.
Through the tremendous work of the First Lady – who has brought together 18 different state departments and agencies, faith and community leaders, health care leaders, and elected officials from across our state – we are meaningfully confronting our infant and maternal health crisis. A black woman in New Jersey is nearly five times more likely than a white woman to die from pregnancy-related complications, and a black baby is three times more likely than a white baby to die before his or her first birthday.
This abhorrent reality is why we have joined together with hundreds of partners throughout the state to develop a statewide strategic plan to decrease our rate of maternal mortality by 50 percent over five years, and completely eliminate the inequities in birth outcomes.
And, given the current national tenor, we have put New Jersey squarely at the forefront of the national fight for justice.
In December of last year, I was proud to sign bills addressing some of the ways our criminal justice system holds people back even after conviction. New Jersey now has the most progressive expungement reform in the nation allowing for the expungement of records of residents whose futures have been held back because of past convictions, and gives residents on parole or probation back their right to vote.
I believe in second chances, and that is why we created the second chance agenda. As I sought this office, I heard the stories of those whose futures were uncertain because of a low-level offense on their record and because of that record could not get employment. The expungement law, in particular, helps to reverse the impact of unjust laws and sentencing that started during slavery and continued for decades.
Our commitment to creating safe communities and neighborhoods through a criminal justice system that lives up to that all-important word, “justice,” and enacting the recommendations of the Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission – which include the elimination of mandatory minimum sentences for non-violent drug offenses – has only grown stronger.
And, through the tremendous work of Attorney General Gurbir Grewal and State Police Superintendent Colonel Pat Callahan, we are undertaking a transformation in the culture of policing across our state.
They have, to their credit, traveled across our state building partnerships with faith and community leaders, residents, and stakeholders so that this transformation in policing and police culture is achieved through direct and open collaboration with our diverse communities.
And, we have seen across our state over the past few weeks the natural outgrowth of these efforts – law enforcement joining their communities in committing to the simple, natural law that Black Lives Matter.
Under Attorney General Grewal, New Jersey has emerged as a national leader in increasing accountability, transparency and professionalism – which bring us closer to a reimagined police culture.
Just this week, the Attorney General directed all law enforcement agencies to make public the names of officers who are fired, demoted, or suspended for more than five days due to serious disciplinary violations.
This speaks to a core value – those who discredit their badge should not be allowed to hide behind that badge.
Superintendent Callahan is taking this directive even further. He has committed to not just releasing these names in the future, but releasing twenty-years-worth of names from State Police. As a result, other agencies are taking similar steps – a sure sign that they not only wish to change for the future, but that they also wish to account for their own pasts.
That is what lays at the heart of this matter. It is well time for us to account for our past.
We cannot escape the fact that our own criminal justice system has an inconsistent past in its relationship with Black and brown communities.
In New Jersey, we have our own history of police-involved deaths. Maurice Gordon is just one example. Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Gordon and every family who has shared this kind of tragic loss. And, here, we have a law which I signed that requires our Attorney General to independently investigate officer-involved deaths and to present evidence before a grand jury.
We will lead the nation in creating a system of transparency and integrity in the legal process.
Ours is a nation conceived in liberty, and, yet, 244 years after our founding document declared “to a candid world,” that “all men are created equal,” we must reckon with the fact, in the starkest of terms, and in the sharpest of images, that we are far from achieving that promised equality.
Ask George Floyd if he was treated as an equal. Ask Breonna Taylor. Ask Ahmaud Arbery. Ask Rayshard Brooks.
Ask John William Smith, whose arrest in Newark in 1967 sparked the Newark uprisings.
The names of the slaves in Texas who learned of their freedom on Juneteenth are unknown but to history. But, the names of those whose lives have been cut short because of systemic racism are known to us all. They must be.
And, lest we forget, the first American killed in the nation’s first fight for independence and liberty, in 1770, was a Black man, Crispus Attucks. How have we honored that legacy?
We cannot allow ourselves to walk through this world with blinders on, claiming emptily that we don’t “see race” – when what that means is we are ignoring the inequalities that exist today.
We cannot escape the fact that systemic racism – not the outward racism of hate groups, but the silent racism of complacency – has bled into nearly facet of facet of our society.
New Jersey is a leader – and will remain a leader – in bringing the change we need. Our administration came to office with a commitment to tackling and dismantling systemic racism, but despite our strides thus far, we know that work is far from over.
We will continue to stand in solidarity with everyone in this sanctuary, with every one of you watching, and with everyone protesting in the streets.
Our goal – not as an administration, but as a society – is this: That the pain of yesterday, and the pain of today, does not become the pain of tomorrow.
There are too many who are not with us as we continue this work to ensure true freedom and equality – in word and in deed – for all. But their memories, and their spirits will guide us forward, as they always have.
Let’s do this together. Let’s make this Juneteenth 2020 a day not just of historical celebration, but the day where we took another step forward in transforming our state in a way that future generations will celebrate.
And, as we move forward, let us be led by the words found in Second Corinthians, Verse Three, Chapter 17, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Let this be our charge.
Thank you, and may God bless you all.
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Robbinsville celebrated this historic day as a community at the Town Center Gazebo by the lake. Several speakers talked about their experiences to those in attendance.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–New Jersey State Police said they followed a Ford pickup truck on the Turnpike early Tuesday morning that veered off the road and flipped over north of exit 7A. The white pickup driven by Steven Schwartz, 57, of Philadelphia was seen entering a restricted area of the toll plaza near Route 130 on the Turnpike’s PA extension just before 5 a.m., according to State Police spokesman Major Brian Polite. Schwartz refused to stop for police and was followed north on the mainline Turnpike where he struck a troop car but kept going. He lost control of the truck, which was found to be stolen, and veered off the road, according to NJSP Major Polite. Schwartz, who was wanted on a parole violation in Pennsylvania, was charged with aggravate assault on a trooper and receiving stolen property. He is hospitalized for what Polite called moderate injuries. An investigation caused delays during the Tuesday morning commute.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Just before 5:30 am the New Jersey State Police and The Robbinsville Township Fire Department were on scene of a motor vehicle crash this morning at mile marker 63 north bound. The vehicle left the roadway near the Sharon Road overpass and traveled a great distance before overturning and coming to rest on its roof under a PSE&G electric transmission tower. The occupant had to be rescued out of the vehicle and carried back through thick brush to a waiting ambulance on the Turnpike.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Just before 5:30 am the New Jersey State Police and The Robbinsville Township Fire Department were on scene of a motor vehicle crash this morning at mile marker 63 north bound. The vehicle left the roadway near the Sharon Road overpass and traveled a great distance before overturning and coming to rest on its roof under a PSE&G electric transmission tower. The occupant had to be rescued out of the vehicle and carried back through thick brush to a waiting ambulance on the Turnpike.
With the amount of police on scene it appears there may be more to the story. A reporter has reached out to NJSP for further details on this accident. In one of the photos it appears to be damage to a police vehicle on the highway.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP-ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville Firefighters responded to another vehicle fire on the NJ Turnpike around 8 pm this evening at mile marker 57.2 southbound. This time it was a well involved van on fire. Mutual aid was sent from Hamilton Township Fire Department (Engine 19) and also Bordentown Township to supply extra water and help extinguish the fire.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville and Bordentown Township firefighters responded to a car fire on the NJ Turnpike at mile marker 60.1 north bound inner roadway just before Exit 7A at 4:06 pm. The car was engulfed in fire on arrival and firefighters extinguished the vehicle within minutes.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Around noon today a vehicle lost control when it backed into a vehicle then lunged forward across the parking area crashing into a townhome on Devon Court in Foxmoor.
The vehicle crashed though the bay window and ended up on the inside of the house. The Robbinsville Township Fire Department and Robbinsville Township Police Department responded. The Township’s building inspector as well as PSE&G were also notified. The Hamilton Township Fire Department also responded to assist Robbinsville.
No serious injuries were reported but the front of the home was heavily damaged. Robbinsville Township Police are investigating the incident.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried has released a statement and prospective on the current climate and support of Robbinsville Township Police Department and its officers.
Below is Mayor Fried’s statement in a Facebook post this morning:
Since I like to start with good news, I am happy to report we are beginning the process of opening our municipal building, restaurants and other retail in town. There have been only two new COVID-19 cases, putting our total since March 22, 2020 at 109 with 88 cleared from isolation.
I would like to speak for a moment concerning the Robbinsville Township Police Department and the social unrest and debate surrounding police departments across the country. Robbinsville is a vibrant, diverse and safe community which we can all be proud to call home. We had a wonderful gathering last Sunday in support of Black Lives Matter and a charge to eliminate racism, ensure equality for all people … and to love one another. As a society, and as a town, we must do our part. To do that we must unite and acknowledge that some people around us are hurting and seek change.
In order to make meaningful change, it is important to acknowledge that thoughtful, courteous and professional police departments are part of the solution. They are needed to ensure we are safe in our homes, schools and country. Along with my administration, Township Council and I stand unequivocally with the Robbinsville Township Police Department. We could not ask for a more upstanding and caring law enforcement officers to protect and serve our residents. As Mayor, if I was not proud of them, you would certainly be asking me why not? I am the town’s Public Safety Director and the RTPD is a direct reflection of my leadership.
One of my favorite lines from the movie “Remember the Titans” is when the young man says: “Attitude reflects leadership.” I would say that our police department reflects both mine and Chief Chris Nitti’s attitude. For those of you who have not met our Chief, he is as fine a gentleman you will ever meet. I think there are interesting aspects about Chief Nitti that we should all know. He was selected to participate in a highly prestigious FBI training for community policing in Quantico, Va. To participate, Chris had to leave his wife and two young sons for 10 weeks to complete the program. Upon his return, Chris and I sat down to discuss ways the RTPD could improve policing in Robbinsville. One of the things he requested was to invest in the first indoor facility to train our officers on de-escalation techniques and “shoot-don’t-shoot” responses. The prospect of taking a life in the line of duty is not something many of us are required to do in our daily lives. It is something that each law enforcement person has to contemplate each day they go to work. The ability to train our officers, as well as others departments from around the County, in a controlled environment was something we both felt would make a tremendous difference. Day-in and day-out, the RPD continues to exemplify community policing under his leadership.
Other important policies and actions have unfolded in town that I feel are worthy of mentioning as it relates to our police department. We were the first to use cameras in all of our cars, and one of the first departments in the County to add body cameras. In addition to the D.A.R.E. program, they were the first in Mercer to implement the C.A.R.E. program to help get people suffering from addiction into treatment instead of arresting them over and over again. “Coffee With a Cop” events were very successful pre COVID, as was rewarding children with coupons for free ice cream at Friendly’s when they were “caught” doing something good by our officers. They are also there for each of us when we have been afraid, or when we just needed help. Imagine for one moment calling 911 and no one came?
I am aware that some people in town are advocating for the removal of the resources officers from our schools and breaking all ties with the police department as a whole. For those advancing this position, ask your children how they feel about the officers they have come to know. Ask other parents how they feel about not having the SROs in our schools. I have asked teachers, parents and students. The feedback is overwhelming positive. One young child out of school since March recently sent a message to one of our SROs, Melyssa Alonso, that said simply: “I love you. I miss you.”
As your Public Safety Director, having resource officers in our schools is the No. 1 thing I can do to keep your kids safe. These officers are not aggressive people looking to cause problems or promote division or inequality. They are there to protect and serve, and all three of our resource officers do a tremendous job. While I want your child to have an amazing, well-rounded school experience, it is also important that they come home at the end of every day.
In closing, I want to acknowledge that Council President Ron Witt helped me craft this post. He feels exactly as I do. We want all people who are hurting to know we respect that you are upset and deeply concerned about racism. Help us do whatever is necessary to collectively stomp it out. One of the many things that is great about being human is we can feel two things simultaneously. We can be outraged at the abuses in other cities and departments around the country AND proud of our police department at the same time.
We believe until black lives matter, all can’t matter.
While we face a difficult path, we must try. We also must work together to achieve substantive change. This includes our men and women in blue. We are also calling on all mayors and elected officials across the State to be accountable for their police departments and organizations. It is time to take a long, serious look inward. Elected leaders need to stand up and be held accountable for the departments they have created. Remember United we stand divided we fall.
God bless you all.
June 7, 2020 Left to right: Robbinsville Township Mayor David Fried and Council President Ron Witt attending Robbinsville Night Of Unity
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Municipal Building is open effective immediately by appointment-only.
Outdoor drop-off bins and the mail slot for tax and sewer payments are still available. The Senior Center remains closed to the public until further notice. Social distancing regulations remain in effect. Hand sanitizer and masks are provided upon entrance to the building. Frequent hand-washing and proper hygiene is always encouraged.
Township Council, Planning Board and Zoning Board meetings will continue to be held virtually or via remote until further notice.
Phase 1, initiated by Governor Phil Murphy’s recent Executive Order, allows a maximum of 50 people at 2298 Route 33. Information and State guidance are subject to change.
Please call your department of choice to arrange an appointment. A complete list of phone numbers and extensions are available HERE, and posted on the doors of the Municipal Building.
Phase 2 of the Township reopening plan will begin July 7, 2020. Details to follow. Please be advised the Recreation Division has relocated to 66 Sharon Road (Miry Run).
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The United States Postal Service recently approved Robbinsville Township’s request to become the primary zip code for the 08691 area.
Robbinsville’s official request to change its zip code in August, 2016 was denied after the USPS implemented a flawed and confusing survey process that left residents, along with local, state and federal officials, angry and confused. In addition to deficiencies in mail delivery service, inaccurate zip codes impact car insurance rates and GPS coordinates, among other factors.
“We’ve heard our residents loud and clear regarding their desire to have “Robbinsville 08691” be their official postal designation,’’ Mayor Dave Fried said. “This is very good news and big step in the right direction. It may take some time for businesses to update their mailing lists purchased from the post office, but making Robbinsville the primary holder of 08691 was absolutely a battle worth fighting. I want to thank Congressman Chris Smith, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo and Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin for their support.”
Led by Administrator Joy Tozzi, the Township first mobilized the zip code effort almost 13 years ago. Following the 2016 denial, negotiations with the South Jersey District of the USPS were revived in 2018, at which time the conversation shifted toward Robbinsville being named the “preferred city designation for the zip code 08691.”
However, the first attempt at that new compromise floundered when former Hamilton Township Mayor Kelly Yaede refused to sign off on the proposal. Some Hamilton residents and businesses still fall under “Hamilton 08691,” which required the Hamilton Township administration approve the change.
The South Jersey District informed Rep. Smiths’ office, located in the 4th Congressional District, that Robbinsville’s request would be “processed upon receipt of a letter from the Mayor of Hamilton. On February 13, 2020, first-term Mayor Jeff Martin submitted a letter to the USPS supporting Robbinsville as the new primary designate for 08691.
“Being a helpful neighbor, especially at no cost, is an easy thing to do,” Mayor Martin said. “Hamilton residents in the 08691 zip code should also receive the benefit of lower insurance costs due to the change. We congratulate Robbinsville on their successful journey and wish all the residents of 08691 well.”
Hamilton and Trenton will remain supplemental designations for 08691. It may take some time before the change is fully implemented, including Robbinsville mail stamped “Trenton 08691” and/or “Hamilton 08691.”
“I am happy to see that the USPS has finally responded to the need for Robbinsville to have the proper postal designation. This not only ensures more reliable mail delivery, but can improve insurance rates and boost a sense of community and pride,” said Rep. Smith, who represents Robbinsville in Congress and petitioned the United States Postal Service to correct flaws in its survey process and establish a more responsive re-designation policy. The Postal Service can be resistant to change, and Mayor Fried’s tenacity and leadership – along with the hard work of many in Robbinsville including Business Administrator Joy Tozzi – overcame many hurdles bringing us to this historic day for Robbinsville residents.”
BREAKING NEWS FROM THE SCENE AND RADIO REPORTS WILL BE UPDATED WHEN INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE
June 7, 2020
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–A New Jersey State Police vehicle was struck in the rear tonight at mile marker 65.3 south bound inner roadway (car lanes) just south of Exit 8 around 10:41 pm tonight. From photos it can be seen that multiple vehicles including a NJ Trooper vehicle were damaged. One person was transported to the hospital by the Hightstown First Aid Squad. No further information was available about the accident. Once released the story will be updated. Robbinsville Township Fire Department was dispatched to the scene but not needed.
NJSP, Robbinsville Fire Department and Bordentown Township Firefighters also had a close call on June 4 when rubber neckers caused an accident at a fire scene on the NJ Turnpike in Bordentown Township see MidJersey.News story here: SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER: NJTP Car Fire And Rubberneck 3 Car Accident
A New Jersey State Police vehicle was struck in the rear tonight at mile marker 65.3 south bound inner roadway (car lanes) just south of Exit 8 around 10:41 pm tonight. SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER!!
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville came together for a night of unity as several faith leaders prayed, and talked about current events, intolerance and racism. The event held at the Town Center Gazebo was a cooperative event between Robbinsville Township and Robbinsville’s Faith Leadership. Participants were encouraged to wear a mask and practice social distancing.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Peace March was held this evening from 5 to 7 pm at the Foxmoor Community Park on Washington Blvd. The event was canceled last night due to thunderstorms. Many attendees held signs while a number of community members and speakers spoke before a large crowd at the gazebo. Robbinsville Township Police closed Washington Blvd. and directed traffic around the area to keep the area safe for the gathering.
BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Robbinsville Township and Bordentown Township firefighters responded to a car fire on the New Jersey Turnpike just after 8 pm. tonight. The car was fully involved in fire at the 56.7 mile marker south bound inner roadway (car lanes). Smoke from the fire blew into neighboring Hamilton Township near South Broad and Tea Rose Lane.
Robbinsville and Bordentown firefighters quickly knocked the fire down. As they were fighting a fire rubberneckers caused a 3 vehicle crash at the emergency scene. More lanes had to be temporarily closed while vehicles were moved off to the side. Firefighters, NJTP road crews and troopers ended up pushing one of the vehicles off the roadway.
Thankfully there were no injures reported in the accident.
New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2
Procedure for motorist approaching certain stationary vehicle.
1. a. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle as defined in R.S.39:1-1 that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, shall approach the authorized emergency vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection a. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
b. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary tow truck as defined in section 1 of P.L.1999, c.396 (C.39:3-84.6) that is displaying a flashing amber light, a stationary highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle that is operated by the State, an authority or a county or municipality and displaying flashing yellow, amber, or red lights, or a stationary sanitation vehicle displaying a flashing amber warning light pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2011, c.3 (C.39:3-54.27) shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the tow truck, highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle, or sanitation vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change under paragraph (1) of subsection b. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
c. A violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500.
While we are not proud of this fact, we feel it is our responsibility as a government, as a society and as human beings to do all we can to be part of the change. We are outraged by what has happened, not only in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Ferguson, North Charleston and Atlanta, but in communities all over the United States when people are brutalized, murdered, shot and otherwise treated unfairly. In law enforcement, the taking of another person’s life should ALWAYS be a last resort and never something any of us should be desensitized to.
Making sure our officers are properly trained is of paramount importance. That is why I wanted to construct the first live-fire simulator in the state, so that we could have the best trained officers when it comes to de-escalation and “shoot/don’t shoot” scenarios. Taking a life should be avoided at all costs, and we can only have that assurance if our officers are properly trained.
We are allowed to feel more than one thing at once. We should all be outraged by recent events and free to protest peacefully, while at the same time supporting our local law enforcement, which took an oath to keep us safe. I am proud of the RTPD and have the utmost confidence in them. We have spent years working on community policing, and as a result Robbinsville has one of the safest and most diverse communities in the region.
I ask everyone to pray for our nation. We need to do better and we owe it to the next generation to make sure this world is a better place for them. We will only accomplish this by working together and allowing love – not hate – to flourish.
Join us Sunday at the West Town Center Lake Gazebo at 6 p.m. for a “Night of Unity” – a cooperative effort between Robbinsville Township and local faith-based leaders. Social distancing and masks will be required.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–A 5:39 pm the Robbinsville Township Police Department and Robbinsville Fire Department were dispatched to Route 130 and Sharon Road for a boat fire. Upon arrival police and fire found boat heavily involved in fire with an exposure of a camper trailer.
Firefighters went in service with a 1 3/4″ line and police directed traffic at the scene. Additional aid was called from Hamilton Township Fire Department to assist with manpower. The boat appeared to be totaled but the camper had exterior fire damage. The fire is currently under investigation by the Robbinsville Township Fire Marshal.
Update: The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental.
Severe thunderstorms moving through area take cover. Wires are down, trees down, power is out. Wires may be live do not get near, if down call power company and notify 9-1-1. Stay safe.
Severe thunderstorms moving through Allentown Robbinsville Upper Freehold area.
