UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–According to NJ State Police Spokesman Sgt. Lawrence Peele, yesterday at approximately 12:00 pm, troopers and detectives responded to the area of County Route 539 in Upper Freehold Township for the report of a deceased male in a drainage basin north of the Cream Ridge Golf Course.
According to NJ State Police, the body of the adult male victim was transported to the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office in North Brunswick for a postmortem examination. The case remains under investigation and there is no additional information available at this time.
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Allentown Business Community Association has posted a notice on Facebook that the 2020 Fall Festival also known as the “Harvest Festival” is canceled this year due to COVID-19 concerns. See below:
THE 2020 HARVEST FESTIVAL IS OFFICIALLY CANCELLED.
After 35 consecutive years, the Allentown NJ Fall Harvest Festival will not be held this fall. The cancellation is due to the NJ statewide shut down. Our upmost concerns are for the safety of our community, our attendees and our businesses. We hope to see everyone again next year. Thank you and be safe.
Prints and cards at available at Dragonfly Design Studio 6 Church Street Allentown, NJ
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
PSE&G Reports 4,568 power outages with 265,283 customers affected as of 1:30 pm
JCP&L Reports 552,736 customers affected at of 1:30 pm
The winds from Tropical Storm Isaias have created problems with trees and wires throughout every town in the area, do not travel unless necessary.
Roads closed, multiple Power outages, blown transformers, live wires burning, trees and debris in the roadway with multitude of other problems are some of the things first responders are dealing with at this hour.
1 PM EDT August 4 update: Hazard weather conditions including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and tornadoes are occurring across northern New Jersey, southeastern New York, and eastern Pennsylvania. More detailed local info: https://t.co/SiZo8ozBbn#Isaiaspic.twitter.com/qphH8sX3KB
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 4, 2020
Emergency Management and Police Departments remind that 9-1-1 is for emergency use only. Restrict travel due to many trees, wires and debris in roadways and do not cross barricades.
Millstone Township reports: All residents should shelter in place. Many trees down throughout the Township and many roads are closed. Windsor Road/Perrinville; Rochdale Ave ; Rising Sun Tavern ; Agress Road/Bittner Road; Bittner Road/Millstone Road; Backbone Hill Road/Schoolhouse to White Birch; Sweetmans Lane near Stillhouse Rd; Mercy Mount Rd; Bessie Court.
Robbinsville Gordon Road Tree On Wires
Robbinsville Gordon Road Tree On Wires
Hamilton Township Edgebrook Road
Hamilton: Wires on fire Yardville-Allentown Road
Hamilton: Wires on fire Yardville-Allentown Road
Threatening skies by the Hamilton Post Office, Route 130
Threatening skies by Hamilton Marketplace
Merrick Road closed by Edgebrook low hanging trees with wires
Hamilton Township Merrick Road by Edgebrook low branches with wires
Allentown, NJ wires down
Allentown, NJ tree blocking North Main passable in shoulder
Allentown, NJ tree blocking North Main Street passable in shoulder
Alert – Significant wind damage around town. Over 36 trees have fallen in last 90 minutes. Widespread power outages and closed roads. Avoid any travel. @NWS_MountHollypic.twitter.com/uuij195Pw5
High winds have taken down several trees around town. Here Middlesex County Road Department works to clear a downed tree from Route 522. #HurricaneIsaiaspic.twitter.com/Vka3g5QG9j
Tree into a residence on Lakewood Road, no injuries. Special Operations is on scene to evaluate the residence for structural damage.#NeptuneWeatherpic.twitter.com/cVTnvqkqtH
Severe storms often result in dangerous situations. A power line does not have to be in contact with the ground to be dangerous. A low-hanging power line is just⚡as⚡dangerous.⚡
⚠️ STAY FAR AWAY from ANY downed or low-hanging wire + report it ASAP to 888-544-4877 or 9-1-1. pic.twitter.com/n5CZ7SBFRd
Governor Murphy and Colonel Callahan Advise New Jerseyans to Prepare for Hurricane Isaias
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy and Colonel Patrick Callahan today advised New Jerseyans to prepare for the impact of Hurricane Isaias. Additionally, a tornado watch has been issued throughout the state. The Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the conditions of the hurricane and are working with counties to address any storm-related needs.“As Hurricane Isaias continues to move throughout our state, we encourage all residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe and secure,” said Governor Murphy. “Our main concern is public safety, and our emergency response team is prepared to help New Jerseyans with any needed assistance during this time.”New Jersey State Police Superintendent and State Director of Emergency Management Colonel Patrick Callahan stressed the importance of connecting the public with reliable information sources to further assist them in their individual preparedness plans.“Events such as Superstorm Sandy have taught us that awareness and preparedness saves lives. We encourage everyone to stay connected and be prepared,” said Colonel Callahan. “Make time with your family to build a kit, a go-bag, and create a communication plan. Tune in, log-on, opt-in, ‘like’ or ‘follow’ state, county, local and federal agencies for credible disaster-related information such as alerts and warnings; situational awareness updates; and where to find help. Personal connections matter, too. After you’ve completed your household preparedness activities, be a good neighbor and lend a hand to someone who may need assistance.”A list of New Jersey’s County Offices of Emergency Management, with social media and local alert system links, may be found on our newly redesigned New Jersey Office of Emergency Management Website: www.ready.nj.gov.NJOEM also recommends specific emergency preparedness actions:Make an emergency kit: Emergency kits will allow individuals and families to survive several days without access to food, water or electricity. Emergency kits should include at least a three to five day supply of non-perishable food and water, prescription medications for up to two weeks if available, baby supplies, pet supplies and any additional items for special medical needs such as an extra pair of eye glasses and batteries for hearing aids. Your kit should also include important phone numbers for doctors as well as car cell-phone chargers. While gathering your emergency kit, pack a go-bag for your family as well. Your family go-bag should be something such as a duffle bag or gym bag that is easily accessible so you can grab it and go in the event that a firefighter or police officer knocks on your door and tells you to evacuate immediately. These bags should include items such as prescription medication, food, water, extra clothing, and copies of important documents and phone numbers to get you through the first few critical days. For information on how to put a family emergency kit together, visit www.ready.nj.gov. Make an emergency plan. Make plans with family and friends in case you’re not together when any type of emergency – natural, technological or man-made – occurs. Discuss how you will contact each other, where you will meet and what you will do in different situations. Become familiar with your town’s evacuation routes. For information on how to put a family emergency plan together, visit www.ready.nj.gov. Pets are family too! Be sure to include them in your emergency plans by visiting www.animalemergency.nj.gov.
Stay informed: NJOEM recommends the following ways to stay informed about emergencies:
Online: Use credible websites to get information about natural hazards and emergency preparedness. NJOEM works closely with the National Weather Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding forecasts and other important disaster news.
National Weather Service NJ is covered by two different weather stations: Mount Holly, NJ for most of the State and Upton, NY for the NE part of the State. For Northeast NJ residents and commuters to/from New York City, please visit: www.weather.gov/okx/. For the rest of New Jersey please visit: www.weather.gov/phi/.
Register Ready: www.RegisterReady.nj.gov – New Jersey’s Special Needs Registry for Disasters allows NJ residents with disabilities or access and functional needs and their families, friends and associates an opportunity to provide information to emergency response agencies, so emergency responders can better plan to serve them in a disaster or other emergency. The information collected here is confidential and will not be available to the public. The information will be held securely and only used for emergency response and planning.
NIXLE – Subscribe to the NJ State Police (NJSP) on Nixle Connect at http://local.nixle.com/new-jersey-state-police/. New Jersey residents can register to receive messages by sending a text message with their zip code to 888777 (data rates may apply depending on your plan). Online registration is also available at www.nixle.com
CMAS – the Community Mobile Alert System – this nationwide system is now being used the National Weather Service to transmit urgent weather info to your cell phone. A warning means the hazard is imminent; a watch means conditions are favorable for the hazard to occur. Your cell phone must be WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) enabled to receive these messages.
NOAA Weather Radio: A nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service Office. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NOAA Weather Radios are typically inexpensive, readily available in stores and can often be programmed for your specific area. http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Multiple incidents on Interstate 195 East Bound this afternoon caused at least a 4 mile backup on the highway sending drivers to side roads causing local traffic issues.
Starting around 12:20 a car fire was reported at mile marker 13 in the median. Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded and reported a minor accident, Allentown EMS was on scene checking for injures.
A short time later EMS was sent to mile marker 13.6 for a pepper spray issue. Unconfirmed radio reports were sketchy but NJSP radio was heard that a vehicle was stopped after driving erratically with 5 occupants after initially did not pull over. Some fled scene and and possibly 2 were arrested for unknown issues. (These are breaking news reports and if and when official information becomes available the story will be corrected and updated with official information.- A reporter has reached out for details on the incident)
NJ DOT highway vehicles were with a broken down vehicle around the 13.8 mile marker.
As these multiple incidents occurred on Interstate 195 East a four mile backup occurred and those who use Google Maps, Waze or other GPS traffic mapping program were rerouted off the highway onto back roads. A long steady stream of vehicles were seen on Route 526, 524, Old Noah Hunt Road, Pine Drive, Burnt Tavern Road and others were backed up due to highway traffic being rerouted. It appears most were heading to Six Flags Great Adventure, Hurricane Harbor or rerouting back onto 195 East at Route 537.
Google Traffic is showing no traffic backups at the time of the posting of this report at 3:20 pm.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Hope Fire Company of Allentown, Millstone Township Fire Department and New Egypt Fire Department responded to Steeple Chase Court around noon for a car fire. Upon arrival a car was on fire in the driveway that was spreading towards the house. Firefighters arrived and were able to quickly knock down the fire and prevented further damage to the home. The fire is under investigation by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Hope Fire Company of Allentown reported on their Facebook page that they handled 2 serious accidents, 1 car fire with exposure to a home and a fire alarm today all in the 90F+ hot and humid heat wave. Millstone and New Egypt Fire Departments helped at calls today in the township.
Photo from Millstone Township Fire Department Facebook Page.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–At 6:46 am the Hope Fire Company of Allentown and the Millstone Township Fire Department responded to I-195 west bound in the area of mile marker 13.4 for a severe accident.
According to NJ State Police spokesman Philip Curry, Mario Shehata, 30 of Jackson was killed in the crash while operating a Honda Civic eastbound on 195.
The Honda Civic crossed the center median and struck an Acura which was going westbound. The driver of the Acura was Richard Carter, 37 ,of Farmingdale according to an update on Thursday from NJ State Police.
The westbound lanes were completely closed just before 8 a.m., for the accident investigation, creating a multi-mile delay approaching the crash scene. The left lane was reopened about 11:45 a.m.
Curry said that cause of the crash remains under investigation.
ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 5:19 pm the Hope Fire Company of Allentown and the Robbinsville Township Fire Department were dispatched to a large amount of straw bales on fire. The fire was located at Old York Road between Sharon and Herbert Roads. Due to the amount of bales on fire the Millstone Township Fire Department and the New Jersey Forrest Fire Service also responded with additional equipment. Firefighters had to break apart the flaming bales by hand to extinguish the fire during a heat wave, current temperature is over 90F in NJ.
Old York Road between Sharon Road and Herbert Road was closed during the fire.
Firefighters from Robbinsville, Allentown, Millstone and the New Jersey Forrest Fire Service are on scene of a large amount of bales on fire in a filed off of Old York Road between Sharon and Herbert on July 21, 2020.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A newly discovered comet that was found on March 27, 2020 called comet Neowise can bee seen just after dusk and the early morning hours for the next few days. The next time you’ll be able to see comet Neowise will be 6,766 years from now so you might want to get a look at it tonight just after dark.
If viewing it is best to use a application such as “Star Walk 2” to help find the elevation and area in the sky to look. Just after dark it can be seen in the north west sky and in the early morning hours it can be seen in the north east sky.
Tonight look north west about an hour after sunset and you’ll have about an hour to see it before it dips below the horizon at 11:25 pm. The comet will rise in the north east around 2:54 am and can be seen until about an hour before sunrise but as the sun rises the view of the comet fades quickly so earlier the better.
If viewing bring binoculars, spotting scope or telescope for the best view. For the next few days you can see it with the naked eye after that you will need optical assistance.
If photographing suggested items would be:
Tripod
Lens 300 mm or longer.
Shutter release or use timer in camera so you do not get shake.
Manual focus on comet or other distant object and hyper focus in “live view” zoomed in if you have that option.
Shut off image stabilizer (if camera has it) to prevent a shake effect.
You will also need to find an area with a large field with a clear view to the north west sky for after sunset and a north east view for before sunrise. Take many different exposures and bracket in “manual mode” to make sure you get the exposure correct.
The comet can be seen all over the country in the night sky. The images below were taken in Upper Freehold Township near the border of Robbinsville Township.
Comet Neowise as seen early morning hours of July 14, 2020
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Troopers Arrest Man for Commercial Burglary and Theft of Services
The New Jersey State Police have arrested Christopher Woods, 56, of Howell, N.J., for allegedly committing several burglaries at storage facility in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County.
On Friday, July 3, troopers from Hamilton Station began investigating multiple burglaries at the Store and Lock Self Storage facility in Cream Ridge, Monmouth County. As a result of the investigation, troopers identified Woods as the suspect of three burglaries at the facility during the month of May.
Troopers determined on three seperate occasions Woods used bolt cutters and stole approximately $ 5,000 worth of personal property. Troopers also discovered he failed to reimburse the facility for contracted services on numerous occasions totaling $1500.
Troopers located Woods later that day at a residence in Howell and arrested him without incident.
Christopher Woods was charged with burglary of a commercial structure and theft of services. He was released pending a court date.
Charges are mere accusations, and the accused is considered innocent until proven guilty.
The New Jersey State Police have arrested Christopher Woods, 56, of Howell, N.J., for allegedly committing several burglaries at storage facility in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County.
UPPER FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 10:45 a delivery truck on Imlaystown-Hightstown Road tangled in some wires and pulled down almost a half mile of telephone and fiber-optic cable. The accident happened in the area of 90 Imlaystown-Hightstown and wires were down almost Yeger Drive, luckily none fell into the roadway itself just short of a 1/2 mile of wire.
Firefighters from Hope Fire Company helped remove cable from the truck so it could be moved after Jersey Central Power and Light checked the area. Verizon was notified so expect a repair crew in the area this afternoon.
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.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–After a long wait for outdoor graduations due to the COVID-19 pandemic Allentown High School’s Class of 2020 was able to have a full commencement this afternoon. This was Allentown High Schools Ninety-Fifth commencement.
The ceremony was held outdoors at Arm & Hammer Waterfront Park due to COVID-19 restrictions.
UPPER FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A vehicle overturned yesterday around 10 am on Herbert Road near Imlaystown-Hightstown Road with a minor injury. After the accident a poodle ran from the vehicle and has not been caught as of the time of this report. The dog has been seen in the area but has not been able to be captured according to Facebook posts. Visit the Lost Dogs of Monmouth County page below for updates. If you have seen the dog or able to capture the dog please call the number below listed in the caption.
While MidJersey.News was out yesterday we were keeping a lookout for the dog while doing the story on the Assunpink being closed. We did not see the dog while out and about at the different lakes. Hopefully we have some luck today.
My sweet poodle mix Rosie was on the way to the groomer with me today when i got into a car accident on Herbert Road in Upper Freehold. She got out of the car and took off. We’ve been looking for her in the Assunpink trails and she was spotted a few times shortly after the accident but was unable to be approached. Her leash and collar are still attached to her. Please, if you see her do not approach as she is easily spooked. She is the best dog I’ve ever had, and my kids are heartbroken. Please call 609-558-3421 if found. Thank you so much
The missing dog survived this accident yesterday on Herbert Road near the Assunpink Wildlife Management area. Please be on the lookout for the dog.
Around 10am, the station was dispatched to Herbert Rd for an overturned vehicle. Upon the arrival of 8276, the driver had self extricated and had only very minor injuries. The driver was assessed by EMS and released. State Police and Fire Police were also on location.
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.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A two car accident occurred at the intersection of Sharon Station Road and County Road 524 around 1:50 pm. The Hope Fire Company, Allentown First Aid Squad and NJ State Police responded to the scene. Upon arrival one vehicle was found on its side and the other with heavy front end damage. Luckily it appears that there were no injures in the crash. The NJ State Police is investigating the accident. No further information is available.
ALLENTOWN-UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–This evening a Senior Class Car Procession was held from 5 to 7 pm to celebrate the Allentown High School Class of 2020. Tonight would have been Allentown’s Prom but since the covid-19 pandemic that was canceled.
The Seniors were be led by the New Jersey State police, DJ Nebbs Entertainment and Hope Fire Company also assisted with traffic control around the township.
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.
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–In this time of social distancing, being “together” is tough. This weekend, families from both Cub Scout Pack 116 and Boy Scout Troop 116 of Millstone Township went camping…. at home. With the aid of a private Facebook group and Zoom video conferencing; scouts and their families spent time outside cooking, building campsite gateways, doing scavenger hunts and pioneering projects.
Fifty families with 71 scouts located in both Millstone and Upper Freehold and ranging in age from 6 years to adult participated in the weekend long event. Cubmaster, Chris Weltner, commented, “This was an excellent event, the weather could not have been any better. I am proud of the scouts who attended and showed their scouting skills and scout spirit. This pack/troop interaction should occur more often and I look forward to participating in person.” Teaching, learning & growing… that was the highlight of the weekend that held the theme “Scouts Camping Apart yet Together: bridging the gap from Lion to Eagle”. Each morning began with a rousing Reveille and each night ended with Taps played by the Troop 116 Buglers. George Schmidt, Senior Patrol Leader, said “I was happy to see so many scouts getting involved in different activities. It was the closest thing we have had to a camp out in months.” The older scouts from Troop 116 posted instructional videos ranging from cooking, hiking and First Aid skills to pioneering projects, Leave No Trace tips and flag retirement ceremonies. Challenges were made and accepted by scouts of all ages… cooking, camp gateway projects, scavenger hunts, scout skills, and, of course, a s’mores challenge ended Saturday night on a sweet note! Troop Committee Chair, John Keleher. noted that he was “really impressed by not only the engagement of the scouts, but the quality of the content that was posted and shared online. The amount of effort these boys put in was really great!”
Are you interested in learning more about Scouting? For boys in Kindergarten through 5th grade, please visit millstonepack116.org and for boys 6th grade and older, please visit https://millstonetwp116.mytroop.us/. Dens and patrols are always forming and you are welcome to Join the Adventure!
MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP AND ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Troopers from the New Jersey State Police Troop C Hamilton attended a small Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veteran’s Memorial in Millstone Township.
Also Hope Fire Company had a small parade though Allentown in remembrance of Memorial Day.
This past #MemorialDay, Troopers from Troop “C” Hamilton Station joined a small group of veterans at a cemetery in Millstone Township to honor those who gave all for our country. pic.twitter.com/MJvMW4D8ZU
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Hope Fire Company of Allentown was dispatched to 195 East Bound at mile marker 9.5 for an overturned dump truck around 3:20 pm. Upon arrival they found a dump truck overturned in the median that lost its load of stone. There was one injury reported in the accident.
Expect traffic delays on Interstate 195 East Bound mile marker 9.5 until the stone and truck can be removed from the roadway and median. The traffic is currently backed up to the Robbinsville-Allentown Exit 7
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–County Road Route 524 is closed between East Branch Road and Imlaystown Hightstown Road for wires down. Hope Fire Company of Allentown and NJ State Police are on scene. JCP&L has been dispatched for repairs.
From Hope Fire Company:
⚠️⚠️⚠️MULTIPLE ROAD CLOSURES⚠️⚠️⚠️
Rt 526 is closed from Sharon Station Rd to Imlaystown-Hightstown Rd
Rt 524 is closed from Imlaystown-Hightstown Rd to the area of the Horse Park
Chambers Rd is closed from Yellow Meetinghouse Rd to Rues road
These are all due to wires or trees down in the area.
Crews are also currently operating at the Horse park for a brush fire. All units are currently operating on these calls.
NAS PENSACOLA, Fla. – The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, and the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with formation flights over New York City, Newark, Trenton and Philadelphia April 28. The flight plans have been released to the public this morning and can be viewed below.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A vehicle traveling in the 200 Block of Route 526 “Trenton-Lakewood Road” near Rues Road lost control on a wet roadway and crashed into a utility pole. The accident occurred at 1:49 pm and causing the pole to break at the bottom and wires to catch fire at the top of the pole. The surge caused wide area power problems at several locations including Davis Station Road, Rt 524 near TSC, Old York Road and cause a power line to fail and transformer to catch fire on Sharon Station Road near the I-195 bridge.
Hope Fire Company of Allentown responded for a the accident with the utility pole on fire and the numerous other power issues. Currently Route 526 between Imlaystown Road and Rues is closed for the broken pole and wire fire. Sharon Station Road is closed between Route 524 and Route 526. Luckily no injures were reported in the accident.
Sharon Station Road is closed between Route 524 and Route 526 near the I-195 bridge for wires down and transformer on fire.
A vehicle traveling in the 200 Block of Route 526 “Trenton-Lakewood Road” near Rues Road lost control on a wet roadway and crashed into a utility pole.
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.
FREEHOLD, NJ – On behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley held a press conference today to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation and additional support that the County will supply the business community.
“Since the start of the Take Out in Monmouth initiative last week, we have complied well over 750 businesses, which can be found at www.takeoutinmonmouth.com,” said Freeholder Director Arnone, liaison to the Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism. “Today, we are now adding breweries and wineries to this online list to further boost the local economy. These business owners are our friends, neighbors and community leaders and we owe our support to these individuals and their employees during this difficult time.”
Visit the Screaming Hill Brewery page for barnside pickup. Orders placed the day before will be ready the next day for pickup. Try the “Blood Orange” a midjersey.news favorite.
Visit Screamin Hill our local farm fresh brewery for barn side pickup. Remember to place order the day before for pickup the next day.
Heavenly Havens Has Ice Cream Takeout Window:
LaPiazza Delivers now, you might be lucky enough to have DJ Nebbs deliver for you:
Together, Monmouth County municipalities, local chambers as well as the County Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism continue to research and identify all food grocers, breweries, wineries and restaurants open. While the County works to maintain an updated list, email TakeOutInMonmouth@visitmonmouth.com to be listed or request a change in listing.
“As a result of mounting cases and more and more residents becoming increasingly frightened to leave their own home, the Monmouth County Aging Disability Resource Center has prepared the COVID-19 Resource Guide to assist seniors and residents with disabilities who may be struggling to acquire basic needs during this health pandemic,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Kiley, liaison to the Department of Human Services. “The County has been extensively collaborating with local officials and the guide will be frequently updated to reflect the most current services and resources offered by municipality.”
In addition to Monmouth County ADRC (Aging Disability Resource Center), Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Communities Through Services) has been directing residents to Monmouth Resource Net, an online directory of community and health resources and services, information about residential mortgage relief as well as mental health support.
The Freeholders also discussed the Executive Order signed on Thursday, April 7 by the Governor, closing all Monmouth County parks indefinitely.
“I would like to publicly state that I do not support the indefinite closure of all county parks in New Jersey. I also find it unacceptable that we have no input as to when they will reopen. There are a number of options that could have been considered as an alternative to completely closing county parks, including limiting hours, days, et cetera,” said Freeholder Director Arnone. “The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders has felt, throughout this entire pandemic, that our County parks are essential for our residents’ mental health and a great choice for passive recreation.I promise that we will open our parks immediately as soon as the Executive Order is lifted.”
All public is restricted from parks and golf courses. Park and golf course entrances and parking lots are gated or barricaded and visitors who gain park access by foot or bike will be directed to leave, as the parks will still be patrolled. Marina services are suspended but owners will have access to their boats.
Monmouth County news updates and information regarding the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com.
All State and County Parks are closed in NJ. Some local parks are closed and some local parks are open, check with each town because status changes daily.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A serious accident occurred at the intersection of Route 524 and Sharon Station Road around 1:52 pm on Sunday afternoon. Two vehicles collided sending one of the vehicles into a utility pole and severed it off at the bottom. Power lines above fell and come in contact with one of the vehicles.
Hope Fire Company, Allentown First Aid Squad, Millstone First Aid Squad, Paramedics from Mercer County, NJ State Police and a game warden in the area from NJ Division of Fish Game and Wildlife were at the scene. Jersey Central Power and Light-JCP&L was on scene to cut power and replace the broken wires and damaged pole.
The roadway is expected to be closed for an extended time while repairs are made please avoid the area.
No further information was available about the accident.
Hope Fire Company, Allentown First Aid Squad, Millstone First Aid Squad, NJ State Police and a game warden in the area from NJ Division of Fish Game and Wildlife were at the scene. Jersey Central Power and Light JCP&L was on scene to cut power and replace the broken wires and damaged pole.
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.
