Community News

Ortley Beach Lord House Station Rededicated

The Toms River Township council and mayor attended the Lord House re-dedication ceremony and plaque unveiling in Ortely Beach last Saturday.

“The Friends of Ortley Beach researched the history of the Ortley Inn and organized the event. Edie Segree and Barbara Biedenbach of the Lord family were in attendance,” the township said.

Originally established as the Ortley Inn in the late 1880’s, the Lord House was destroyed by fire in 1922. The Lord family purchased the rights to the business and built a single-family home. The Township acquired the land in the 1960’s and constructed a parking lot. The lifeguard station was added later.

Photo: Handout Photo/Toms River Township.

How Lakewood became a worldwide destination for Orthodox Jews | Di Ionno

It is Friday in Lakewood. A few thousand young men in black suits and wide-brimmed black hats are rushing toward Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG), the world’s largest yeshiva outside of Israel. Parking in the vicinity of the school is as impossible as finding a spot in Hoboken or Jersey City. Students circle in their Toyotas, Nissans…

Will Weather Clear for Toms River Food Festival?

TOMS RIVER-With heavy rains tonight through early morning, the weather might just cooperate for Saturday’s Toms River Food Festival.

Temperatures are expected to be in the mid 60’s with just a 15% chance of rain throughout the day until later in the evening.  Showers are expected to pass through after 5pm.

The event will feature local food trucks, arts and craft vendors, free rides for children and live entertainment from 11am to 8pm.

In case the event is rained out, Sunday is planned as a rain date.  Visit the Food Festival page on Facebook for updates.

 

 

 

Six Flags unveils new twist on record-breaking ride (PHOTOS, VIDEO)

JACKSON – Imagine sitting on top of the world’s tallest and fastest drop ride, knowing that at any second you will plummet down 41 stories at speeds of up to 90 mph. Now add the fact that your eyes are covered and instead of being about to scope out the real world around you prior to…

140 Lakewood Teachers, Faculty Receive Rice notices

LAKEWOOD-The besieged Lakewood school district suffered another blow this week after 140 public teachers and faculty members received a Rice notice regarding their future employment in the district.

The story was reported on the Lakewood Scoop this morning.

Laura A. Winters, the district Superintendent sent the letter on Tuesday, stating the district will be holding a meeting at 6:30pm on Monday, May 8 and, “will discuss and may recommend action(s) which may be of interest to you.”

Teachers may opt for the meeting to be held in a public meeting.  Teachers were asked to sign the form and return it to the superintendent.

The district is facing a $15 million budget shortfall and may end up laying off at least 100 teachers according to previous reports.

RICE notices inform public employees of an impending meeting to discuss an worker’s employment.

 

Establishment Republicans in Toms River Launch Attack Against Primary Challenger Lamb

TOMS RIVER-A press release issued by the Toms River Republican Club, the political powerbrokers of the community, criticized fellow Republican opponent Justin Lamb, just days after Lamb thanked the town council for holding the line on taxes in 2017.

Lamb, an Ortley Beach resident and Lavallette police officer running against incumbent Maria Maruca in the June 6th Republican primary criticized the township council, calling the all-Republican council out for raising taxes in previous years, but backtracking on a 2017 hike after his open criticism.

The township council, in April submitted a new budget that lowered spending by nearly an additional $1,000,000 after Lamb’s criticism.

The township establishment Republicans grilled Lamb for only criticizing the municipal budget while  making no comment on a school board tax hike.

“Lamb pans the zero tax increase by the Republican Kelaher team, fails to criticize the HUGH[sic] tax increase levied by dem controlled BOE,” a statement issued by Toms River Republican Club Chairman Robert DiBiase read.  “Members of the Toms River Regular Republican Club are pushing back against political newcomer, Justin Lamb.”

Lamb responded quickly to the attack by the Republican power base.

“This unfounded criticism does not surprise me in the slightest,” Lamb said.  “Regardless of what a local club spokesman may opine, I have not slammed a zero percent municipal increase, rather I’ve questioned the township council’s leadership prior to my announcement and the tendency to react hastily to the challenging issues facing Toms River.”

“His candidacy is fundamentally questionable,” DiBiase said.  “I see no measure of credibility here, his actions so far seem intentioned only to help Democrats in November.”

Lamb responded to say the township Republicans, including the club chairman, who he noted is also employed by the township,  are trying to squash his right to legally challenge them in a Republican primary election this June.

“I find the attack on my eligibility to run for office, a right bestowed upon me through the United States Constitution, completely baseless,” he added.   “I’ll continue to focus on the real issues our community faces and not on personal attacks. I will keep driving the agenda going forward and hopefully, the so-called Republican establishment will continue following my lead on addressing these issues.”

Lamb, a Republican is running against incumbent Maria Maruca in the June 6th Republican primary for Toms River Township’s Ward 1 council seat.

 

 

 

Taxes Going Up…Jackson Council Votes to Exceed NJ 2% Budget Cap for 2017

JACKSON-Taxes in Jackson are on the rise again.

On April 11th, the township council approved an ordinance to raise taxes beyond the state’s annual 2% tax increase cap set forth by Governor Chris Christie.

The council voted 4-1 in favor of the tax increase in which the budget exceeds the 2% cap by $1,040,243, a total appropriations increase of 3%.

“The Township Council hereby determines that a 3.00% increase in the budget for said year, amounting to $1,040,283 in excess of the increase in final appropriations otherwise permitted by the Local Government Cap Law, is advisable and necessary,” the approved ordinance states.

Council members Scott Martin, Barry Calogero, Robert Nixon and Anne Updegrave voted in favor of exceeding the 2% tax cap.

Council President Ken Bressi rejected the Mayor’s request to exceed the cap and dissented with his fellow councilmembers, saying only, “no” when asked for his vote by township clerk Ann Marie Eden.

This year, the township will collect $155 million in taxes between the township, school board and fire companies, including $2.2 million for open space purchases, $31.8 million in municipal spending, representing an overall increase of nearly $1,000,000 for the municipal government.

According to the proposed budget, the 6 member mayor/council body will cost the township $175,603 for part time services including base pay, medical benefits and employment taxes.

Total personnel costs for the township will be $28,000,000 in 2017.

Township executives feeling under the weather in 2016?

In total, the township will pay out $2.9 million, or 10% of the total payroll for 2016, in compensated absence (sick pay) pay, including $34,500 to the Director of Public Works, $32,000 to the Chief Financial Officer and $27,000 to the chief of police.

According to the U.S. Census, The median income for a household in the township was $65,218, and the median income for a family was $71,045. Males had a median income of $51,276 versus$33,882 for females. The per capita income for the township was $23,981.

Professional Expenses

Jackson’s legal campaign donors stand to make out big again in 2017, with $857,000 in payouts expected, an increase from $831,000 in 2016, an overall increase in legal costs for the year.  Professionals on the land use board and engineers also will see increases in 2017.

Code enforcement wages will increase from $287,000 to $305,000.

You can view the complete budget on the Jackson Township website, here.

 

 

 

 

Empanada Guy Headlines This Weekend's Food Truck Festival at Six Flags

JACKSON-Not officially, but fan favorite “Empanada Guy” is among the food trucks on the “not to miss” list at this weekend’s Food Truck Festival at Six Flags Great Adventure.

“This delicious festival provides a chance to fuel up between coasters. Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines ranging from Cajun to Korean and Greek to Italian, plus sweets including waffles and shakes.” the company said in a statement today.

Fifteen trucks will be available from 12 to 7 p.m., and three award-winning New Jersey wineries will also be on hand from 1 to 5 p.m. for sampling and wine purchases.

Participating Food Trucks:                    

  • Cajun Jax BBQ – A taste of the old south with a Cajun twist
  • Chimney Cake Factory – Transylvanian oven-baked pastries
  • Empanada Guy – Gourmet Latin pastries and tapas
  • Gyros To Go – Custom made Greek-American food
  • Johnny’s Pork Roll – Pork roll sandwiches
  • My Four Suns – Authentic Korean fusion cuisine
  • Oink and Moo BBQ – American BBQ and Tex-Mex
  • Star of the Sea Seafood – Homemade, hand-prepped seafood
  • Suzie’s Rolling Wrappers – Gourmet, deep fried wrappers
  • Sweet Lavender – Simple, yet sophisticated desserts
  • The Flying Pie Guy – Hand held, savory Aussie pies
  • The Guac Spot – Artfully crafted, avocado-inspired tacos, sliders and desserts
  • The Little Sicilian – Specializing in many varieties of Sicilian riceballs
  • Waffle de Lys – Authentic Belgian waffles with a French twist
  • Five Sisters – Pub-style burgers and fat sandwiches

Wineries:

  • DiMatteo Vineyards
  • Villari Vineyards
  • Wagonhouse Winery

Jackson MUA Approves Up To $15,000 Pine Snake Survey for Six Flags Water Plant

JACKSON-At the February 23rd meeting of the Jackson Municipal Utilities Authority Commissioners, MUA Director David Harpell reported that a more involved pine snake survey at the proposed Six Flags Water Treatment Plant will be required before the authority can bid the project out.

“Mr. Harpell stated that the Authority heard from our environmental consultant this week and they identified mammalian burrows which could be an overwintering habitat for the pine snake. Mr. Harpell stated that the Authority will have to do an RFP for this additional survey and we will plan on awarding this project in March,” the MUA said.  “The survey can be done early April to see if pine snakes are present. If no pine snakes are identified, we should be able to go out to bid on the project. Mrs. Blake questioned if there is anything that can be put into the holes to see what is in it and Mr. Harpell stated that the normal routine is to put silt fence around the hole and wait to see what comes out. Chairman Allmann stated that if the Authority should need any approvals on this survey prior to the award at the next public meeting, please notify the Board.”

On Tuesday, the authority issued a public notice awarding the contract to DuBois Environmental Consultants, LLC in an amount not to exceed $15,000.

 

 

Private Beach Debate Boils Over as Proposed Parking Fees Could Aide Off-Limits Beach Clean Up

DEAL-A plan by the borough council is under fire by the New Jersey Chapter of the Surfrider Organization.  The organization is claiming that beaches aren’t the only thing here that need cleaning, but so does a new ordinance that could allocate public funds to beaches that are off limits to the general public.

According to Andrew L. Chambarry, Esq., representing the public, “The Borough of Deal has proposed their most sinister parking plan to date. They want to charge the public for parking passes which would fund the purchase of a beach sweeping machine. The machine will be used to clean beaches that you can’t access.”

At a public meeting on April 5, 2017, the Borough of Deal introduced Ordinance #1143 which would require permit parking during the summer months on five streets (Monmouth Terrace, Monmouth Drive, Hathaway, Sydney and Neptune Ave) with two vital beach access points for a cost of $100 for the summer or $50 per month.

“Mayor Cohen also said, and this is a direct quote from the public hearing, that this ordinance is the lesser of two evils,” said Harry Chambarry.  “So he admits that the ordinance is evil.”

A release by the organization read:

At the meeting, Mayor Cohen said it best, “If you want easier public access, you’re going to have to pay!” The Borough wants the public to pay $100 for a parking permit that won’t guarantee a space. They won’t restrict beachfront residents from purchasing permits and parking on the street to keep you away. They won’t admit that restricting parking is restricting access. They have no plan for ADA access or handicapped parking. They have no plan for increased traffic west of Ocean Ave. They want to push Ordinance #1143 through.

Worst of all is the Borough’s reasoning behind the Ordinance. They plan to purchase a $100,000 “beach sweep” machine to clean the beaches. Sounds great right? Wrong. Deal has notoriously horrible public access. Many of the street ends lead to dead-ends where access points should be. These street ends were vacated by the Borough in the 1980’s and early 1990’s to benefit adjacent homeowners and create private beaches. In essence, the Borough wants to charge you for a permit to fund beach cleaning equipment for beaches that you can’t enjoy.

The borough tried to pass similar ordinances in October 2015 and June 2016 restricting access. Those ordinances were tabled after they were met with fierce opposition. Ordinance #1143 is another slap in the face to local taxpayers, given that Deal’s beaches were recently the benefactor of a $40 million taxpayer-funded beach restoration project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

It’s clear to everyone that the Borough intends to keep surfers, fisherman and the general public away from what they consider to be “their” private beaches. We have a right to access and enjoy the shoreline under New Jersey law. We can’t allow the Borough of Deal to restrict access to beaches that we all paid for.

 

Vintage photos of people 'hangin' out' in N.J.

Angie: “Whaddya feel like doin’ tonight?” Marty: “I don’t know, Ang … what do you feel like doin’?” Angie: “We’re back to that, eh? I say to you whaddya feel like doin’, and you say back to me I don’t know what do you feel like doin’, then we wind up sittin’ around your house with…

NJ Transit nightmare spills into 4th day, but full service could return Friday

An almost week-long commuting nightmare for NJ Transit train commuters may be over on Friday when Amtrak officials say they expect to complete repairs to track damage from Monday’s train derailment in Penn Station New York. “We’re hoping to have the work done by Friday,” said Mike Tolbert, an Amtrak spokesman. Until then, NJ Transit trains…

Statement Against Gentiles in Lakewood Shopping Center "Walked Back"

Yesterday, we reported on an article posted on the “Take Back Lakewood” website in which a post on the page claimed to show 1,200 signatures in opposition to a retail mall project in the Cedarbridge office park.

Along with the petition was a letter from an unsigned resident highlighting their opinions against the development, citing things like teenagers hanging out, boys and girls co-mingling, gentile (non-Jewish) owned shops and other reasons.

The letter also referred to non-Jewish residents as “goyim”, those who are not Jewish, many non-Jews feel it is a derogatory term.  The letter referenced the potential presence of goyim within the shopping plaza as “terrifying”.

Read full article here.

Today, Take Back Lakewood is walking back its claim that the letter and the petition were connected and the original article was pulled from the website.

“We have now spoken with the organizer of the petition who clarified to us that the petition had 2 simple lines on it – as written on the text of the petition page – it reads (in a mixture of hebrew and english) : ‘We are requesting from Cedarbridge Corporation to withdraw from their involvement in making a shopping center in our town’.”, TBL, stated.

“The intention of the organizers of the petition related to the fact that the Yeshiva (BMG) was founded upon and espouses certain values. Those values include living a life of austerity and shunning materialism in the pursuit of living a life dedicated to the service of God. Many in the yeshiva community choose not to eat out in restaurants (yes even kosher ones) choose not to indulge in nice cars or name brand clothing and instead dedicate their time and efforts in the service of God. Most do not have a TV in their home and many do not have internet. Some don’t even own a cell phone. They are entitled to choose to live their lives in that way the same way America allows individuals to choose how to live their lives. While they would not tell others how to live their lives and indeed many many people in Lakewood do live a more luxurious lifestyle with nice houses, cars and nice strip malls, they felt that it was unbecoming of BMG to tarnish it’s name by suddenly changing gears and promoting materialism since in this case, BMG/Cedarbridge was the applicant and developer. If a private developer were to apply for a mall that they would not object. The reality is that private developers have been building stores all over Lakewood and the BMG students have not objected to that. Their concern related to what they felt was a weakening of the yeshiva’s values and a lack of practicing what they preach in regard to materialism,” TBL continued.

“Furthermore, the intent of the letter which was written by an individual,  was not to say that non Jewish stores should not be allowed in Lakewood. When BMG was initially accused of promoting materialism through a shopping center that would be built in the middle of a predominantly jewish area, some of the concerns related to the fact that there would surely be tenants who served non kosher food, draw traffic to the area on Sabbath when most stores in the area are generally closed, and possibly have stores like Victoria Secret etc which would display pictures of scantily clad women that would generally not be preferred by the ultra orthodox. Again, the primary objection related to the fact that BMG was the developer. It would be analogous to a Catholic Church building an abortion clinic,” the statement continued.

“No one in Lakewood is trying to deny business opportunities for gentiles,” TBL added.

You can see the full post on Take Back Lakewood’s website.

Although the letter and the petition are now alleged to be disjoined from each other, the letter highlighted the deep cultural divide between some in Lakewood’s Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and the surrounding communities which must be overcome as the Orthodox community expands into neighboring towns.

The original letter is published below:

 

In Lakewood, new scrutiny on 'business as usual' | Di Ionno

Pastor Glenn Wilson’s church in Howell Township is austere and seats just about 50 worshipers for Sunday service. The four gospel singers are backed by a five-piece band — guitar, bass, drums, organ and alto sax. Some numbers are sung in English, some in Spanish. Wilson’s congregation is largely black and Hispanic and most come from…

Dog shop owner finds new way after puppy mill sales

TOMS RIVER — For weeks in the summer of 2015, Pat Youmans stared out the window of his Cherry Hill puppy shop, Pat’s Pets, and saw at least half a dozen protesters daily. His then-fiance was 8 months pregnant at the time, and customers began fearing the short walk from their cars to the shop’s front…

Jackson's Stolarz Gets Goal Time After Flyers' Neuvirth collapses on ice

PHILADELPHIA — In a terrifying moment, Flyers goalie Michal Neuvirth collapsed on the ice and had to be removed from Saturday night’s game on a stretcher. With 12 minutes, 23 seconds left in the first period and the Flyers holding a 1-0 lead over New Jersey at the Wells Fargo Center, Neuvirth fell on his back…

Plans for New Cell Tower in Jackson Introduced

Eco-Site, a North Carolina based telecommunications firm is proposing to build a 105′ cell tower at 405 Cassville Road (Route 571) in Jackson.  The 17 acre property is zoned R3 Residential under the township’s master plan.

In a notice published today, the company is accepting comments from the community regarding this project.

In the public notice published by the company, the property is denoted as a historic property, located near the Cassville Crossroads Historic District and is located across from St. Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church.

Any interested party wishing to submit comments regarding the potential effects the proposed facility may have on any historic property may do so by sending comments to: Project 6116004472-AMG c/o EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail S., York, PA 17403, or via telephone at 585-815-3290.

Site location via NJParcels.com.

Flashback Friday: Freeholder Joe Vicari and the Victorian Era Kiln

In 1993, a turn of the century kiln was found while excavating a parking lot between 213 Washington Street and the old Methodist cemetery to its west. There was once a house on the lot, but that was torn down in 1968, 25 years before the find.

An investigation by the county found the kiln may have been used to burn waste. Over 100 prohibition era bottles were also found on the site and the county believed the bottles were thrown down a chute to hide the evidence.

The house was owned by the Ayres family who also owned the Ayres Brickworks, which was located on Bachelor Street in the late 1800’s.

Inside the kiln, workers found bottles that once contained whiskey, gin, root beer and other discarded household glassware. Most were dated between 1890 and 1920.

Photos by Ocean County.

LBI: Then And Now – Loveladies

This aerial photograph of the small community of Loveladies on Long Beach Island shows the development of Long Beach Island.  The original photo was taken in the early to mid 1950’s and the current view is the most recent Google Earth imagery available.

If you look closely, you can see that some of the original homes still exist with modifications and additions.  Loveladies is located in the northern section of Long Beach Township on Long Beach Island.

It was a location of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, established in 1871. The land adjacent to the station was owned by Thomas Lovelady and the section of the island was called “Lovelady’s” before eventually evolving into Loveladies.

 

1950’s photo on file at the OC Heritage Archive, photographer, origin unknown.
Google Earth imagery, Loveladies, LBI.

Lakewood Company Delivers Kosher MRE's to Jewish U.S. Troops for Passover

Labriute Meals based in Lakewood announced  that it has completed Operation Military Passover Meals and that all of the brave men and women in all branches of U.S. military will be able to enjoy Kosher for Passover meals wherever they are.

Labriute Meals was awarded an exclusive three-year DLA contract (Defense Logistics Agency) to supply kosher MREs (meals ready to eat) to troops stationed around the world.

“Passover is an exciting yet challenging period at Labriute Meals. We have to ensure uninterrupted production of our meals to all of our market segments, but shipping meals in time for Passover to our brave men and women of all branches of the United States military is our highest priority,” says Abe Halberstam, President and Founder of Labriute Meals.

“Last year, Labriute was invited to attend the bi-annual JWB convention in Baltimore where I spoke in front of a gathering of all US Military chaplains. It was a humbling experience as well as incredibly gratifying to hear from the chaplains how much our Passover meals mean to our troops. Our Kosher MRE’s in addition to meeting religious observance, also serve as our soldiers’ connection back to their families who have to conduct a “Seder” without them,” continued Mr. Halberstam.

Mr. Halberstam explains, “The challenge stems from having to end our regular production of kosher MREs, then prepare and certify our equipment for our Kosher for Passover so production can begin. It is quite a complex logistical project as we have to coordinate “kashrut” of our plant as well as receipt of all of the Kosher for Passover food ingredients.”

Labriute ships over ten thousand kosher MRE meals which will be dispatched by the DLA to all branches of the military including active engagement territories. “We are truly honored to be part of this project. In 2016, Labriute was called upon to deliver additional meals to our troops. Our trucks drove through the night to meet one of the Navy ships in order for meals to reach their destination. A truly gratifying experience for all of our employees,” said Mr. Halberstam.

How better definitions of mental disorders could aid diagnosis and treatment

By Miri Forbes, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Minnesota, Robert Krueger, Distinguished McKnight University Professor of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Roman Kotov, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University (The State University of New York), and David Watson, Andrew J. McKenna Family Professor of Psychology, University of Notre Dame. From www.shutterstock.com Mental…

Easy solutions for resolving your roofing problems

WASHINGTON, March 31, 2017 – A home is the most valuable asset that you can own. A home of your own brings you a sense of security knowing that you have something valuable. Every homeowner knows the feeling of achievement that comes along with knowing that you have a safe haven to return to at the…

New Jersey University Ditches Fast Food from Menu

NEW BRUNSWICK — In a makeover of its dining hall menus, Rutgers University plans to eliminate chicken nuggets, hash browns and other unhealthy foods from its takeout section and incorporate more nutritious options in the all-you-can-eat cafeterias. By the end of the fall semester, Rutgers expects chicken wings will be baked instead of fried, hot sauce…

Contractor's scam grows, now affects 34 victims and $1.5M, authorities say

TOMS RIVER — A contractor charged with bilking homeowners after promising to repair their homes damaged by Hurricane Sandy is facing a new indictment after authorities found more victims in a scam that’s reached $1.5 million. Jamie Lynn Lawson, 42, was initially charged with theft and money laundering related to 14 people who were tricked out…

Top 5 Waterfront Restaurants in Ocean County

Now that spring has sprung across Ocean County it’s time to get back out on the water and enjoy a nice meal, some drinks and entertainment as the warm spring breeze blows across the Barnegat Bay, Toms River or Atlantic Ocean at your favorite waterfront watering hole and restaurant.

So, get out and do something different this weekend.

We often get spoiled by the beauty that surrounds us living here at the Jersey Shore where the shore’s scenic beauty is often just minutes away, or even completely overlooked as we carry on with our daily routine.

Now that it’s getting warmer out, it’s time to stop a bit and enjoy our surroundings once again.

Here are our picks for the top 5 waterfront restaurants in Ocean County:

Chef Mike’s Atlantic Bar & Grill, South Seaside Park
Enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean from the pristine beaches of South Seaside Park in one of the best Oceanfront restaurants in the state.  Local hometown chef, Executive Chef Mike Jurusz dazzles his diners with outstanding culinary creations.   He traveled the country and worked for some of the most accomplished chefs, bringing everything he learned away back to the Jersey Shore and onto his menu.
www.facebook.com/pg/ChefMikesAbg

Martell’s Water’s Edge, Bayville
Martell’s is a shore favorite whether it’s their Point Pleasant oceanfront tiki bar or their secluded Water’s Edge location in Bayville along the Barnegat Bay.   This year, they are introducing “Whitecaps”, serving up American shore comfort food…with a twist of elegance.  At Martell’s Water’s Edge, you can enjoy a drink or a meal from indoor waterside seating or on their bayfront outdoor deck.
www.facebook.com/WatersEdgeOnTheBay/

Baker’s Water Street Bar & Grille, Toms River
We all grew up going to the Lobster Shanty, but today, it’s Jack Baker’s Water Street Bar and Grille, located in historic downtown Toms River. There’s a perfect view of the Toms River and the occasional passing of the River Lady, a replica paddlewheel boat that tours the river daily in the warmer months.  Baker’s Water Street boasts a festive atmosphere and great food.  https://www.facebook.com/BakersWaterSt/.

River Rock Restaurant and Marina Bar, Brick
Another old-time convert, the River Rock Rock used to be Peterson’s Riviera Inn, but new has replaced the old and the restaurant is once again bustling with life and entertainment.  Located along the Manasquan River in Brick Township, the restaurant rocks all year long, but rocks on the outdoor patio overlooking their marina.  Entertainment usually features Dj’s, bar bingo, trivia night and they have 44 large screen televisions located throughout the restaurant. https://www.facebook.com/RiverRockGrille.NJ/.

Panini Bay Waterfront Restaurant, Tuckerton
Unlike most waterfront restaurants in Ocean County, Panini Bay is an Italian restaurant at the very southern end of the Barnegat Bay, overlooking the Tuckerton Cove.   As expected from a waterside Italian eatery, you can find the freshest fare of calamari, jumbo shrimp and seafood dishes that can be found anywhere along the shore.
www.facebook.com/pg/paninibay

There’s our choice for the top 5 waterfront restaurants in Ocean County.  It is certainly not a comprehensive list and you’re more than welcome to add your own in the comments section below.   Got an idea for a top 5 list? Let us know in the comments!

Photos are by their respective restaurants.

Shelter: Dog Rescued from Abandoned Home Ready for Forever Home

The Associated Humane Society rescue at Popcorn Park shared a story this week about a dog that was rescued from a horrible situation last fall.

Kronk is a big, beautiful Dogue De Bordeaux of about 6 years old that is hoping for a fabulous home to start over in. Kronk always looks as if he is smiling, doesn’t he? He has plenty to smile about these days, now that he is safe and taken care of. Sadly, that wasn’t always the case for Kronk. He was removed from a terrible situation along with another dog last fall. Kronk was living in an abandoned house in conditions that were too deplorable to imagine. He spent some time getting healthy and back on his feet, now he’s ready to move on with his life. Kronk was a little leery of new people when he arrived but we learned that with patience and time, Kronk learns to trust people and then just acts like a big, silly puppy. Once you’re his friend, he’ll love you forever. He is playful, active and strong, but he walks well on a leash and sits nicely when asked. He gets along with larger dogs, given the chance to get to know them, but will need a home with no children under 10. Kronk just melts when you give him a little love and attention, and that’s really all he’s asking for. He’ll love you so much in return if you give him a chance.

 

ADOPTION INFORMATION:
Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park Animal Shelter is located at 1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731. The hours for meeting adopting pets are Mon-Fri 12pm to 5:30, Sat & Sun 12pm to 4:30. We usually have between 50 to 70 dogs, and 100 to 150 cats available for adoption, as well as smaller animals such as rabbits. Most of our available dogs can be found by clicking on our “Photos” section of our page, and searching out our album, “Dogs Available for Adoption”. This album is updated almost daily but does not always include all of our available dogs. Some of our cats available can be found in our album, “Cats Available for Adoption”.

Meet the 265 Republicans Who Voted To Sell Your Internet History to the Highest Bidder

This week, amidst a sea of other shocking and life-altering bills, political moves, executive orders, and scandals, both the House and Senate voted on and passed a law which granted Internet Service Providers the ability to buy and sell internet users’ browsing data to the highest bidder. Now, your internet service provider (like Comcast and AT&T)…

Report: Only 1 Well Above Limits in Jackson After Joint Base Water Testing

Tests on several water sources on and off Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst show contamination from two chemicals contained in firefighting foam used on the base for decades, the base said. On base, some of the tests show levels thousands of times higher than the federal government’s health advisory level for drinking water. Off base, three private well…

Pinelands commissioner sues those who criticized her vote on pipeline

BRIDGETON — A member of the state Pinelands Commission has filed a defamation suit against 14 people who she says have attacked her on social media because of her backing of a plan to build a controversial natural gas pipeline through a section of the environmentally sensitive area. Jane Jannarone of Vineland, Cumberland County’s representative on…

Mellow Mushroom Making Groovy Waves in Toms River

There’s a new slice at the Jersey Shore, but it’s not like the usual local and New York based Italian pizzerias we’re all used to and the name doesn’t end in a vowel.

It’s the Mellow Mushroom which is getting mixed, but mostly positive reviews at their new Toms river location.

Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers, originating in Atlanta, Ga., but individually owned and operated, is now open in New Jersey for the first time thanks to owners Tito Shah and Mihir Kothari. The duo was asked what they wanted to showcase in the eclectic atmosphere of Mellow Mushroom: “Our design goal at Mellow Mushroom Toms River brings together a mix of local attractions, the culture of the Jersey Shore and its Boardwalk games, along with the infamous tales of the Pine Barrens and, of course, the Jersey Devil.”

 When guests walk through the door, their eyes are drawn to the mural above Mellow Mushroom’s open concept kitchen that embraces the fun of classic Boardwalk games. The full-service bar is loaded with local craft beers and handcrafted cocktails. Guarding over the refreshing libations is none other than the Jersey Devil himself. The smoke breathing Pine Barrens native can be seen hovering just above the beer cooler. Don’t worry, he’s not there to steal your pizza. He just wants to watch the games on Mellow Mushrooms widescreen televisions, which are arranged through out the restaurant.

Within an atmosphere of family fun, patrons can celebrate all sorts of occasions, especially in the private dining room, which fits up to 12 guests. It is embellished with a colorful mosaic created by artist Maude “Modsaica” Lemaire.

Mellow Mushroom is widely known for their stone baked pizzas but that’s not the only item on their lively menu. They are home to loaded Calzones, Hoagies, Burgers and scrumptious Salads. There are vegetarian and gluten free specialty menus. The gluten free crust is made from nutritious ancient grains. The kids menu has interactive games and kid sized options that come with healthy side choices.

On Facebook, reviews have been mostly positive as the restaurant begins to pick up the pace and draw in new customers.

“Great service from the two young ladies who greeted my party of four and helped with the menu and each had suggestions to order to Katie Lordi at the bar who was fun, kind and a whole lot of laughs too. Extremely satisfied with our pizza and appetizers BUT the employs is what sets this place apart from the rest. Great Job Everyone,” wrote Charles Nicastro.

“First time there. Service was excellent….great bang for you buck..you can go anywhere and get a pizza with any toppings anywhere you want for $12 but the recipes that they have are extremely creative and different and it’s worth it. I would definitely go back again and bring the whole crew,” opined  Marc McKennan.

The Mellow Mushroom is located at 1111 Route 37 West.

Great Adventure Opens This Weekend

Six Flags Great Adventure celebrates 2017’s opening weekend April 1 and 2. Guests can enjoy their favorite attractions such as Kingda Ka, El Toro, Nitro and Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom. On the Safari Off Road Adventure, guests can see the park’s three adorable baby giraffes for the first time. Xena, Charly and Eddie roam the Afrikka section with their mothers, weather permitting.

Chadwick Island Bridge to be Replaced

Originally built in the 1950s, the Chadwick Beach Island Bridge has served the residents of the island well providing access from their homes to Route 35. It even weathered Superstorm Sandy in October 2012.

But age has taken its toll on the timber span and Ocean County will now oversee a study to determine the best course of action for rehabilitating or replacing bridge located on the northern barrier island in Toms River Township. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) Board of Trustees approved $325,000 in federal funds for the study at its March meeting.

Funding for the study is provided through the Local Concept Development Phase of the NJTPA’s Fiscal Year 2018 Local Capital Project Delivery Program. The Local Capital Project Delivery Program awards grants to NJTPA member counties and cities to investigate all aspects of a project, including environmental, right of way access, design and feasibility issues. The NJTPA Board approved a combined $2.76 million for studies in FY 2018 and FY 2019 at its March 13 meeting in Newark.

Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari extended his appreciation to the NJTPA for providing the funds for the study.

He noted the Chadwick Beach Island Bridge is used by many bicyclists and pedestrians especially in the summer months.

The two-lane bridge on Strickland Boulevard crosses the Barnegat Bay, connecting Chadwick Beach Island and its 300 homes to Route 35.

In 1985, new deck boards, pile caps and railings were installed. The timber bulkheads and load-bearing piles are deteriorating and need to be replaced. The bridge’s width and sidewalk do not meet current standards.

According to the NJTPA, Local Concept Development is the first phase of the Local Capital Project Delivery Program, which guides projects from initial concepts all the way to construction.

During the initial phase, the County will identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies and select a preferred alternative. Projects that complete this initial investigative work may be eligible for eventual construction with federal funds. More information on the program can be found at www.njtpa.org.

N.J.'s largest hospital chain and Aetna may split, spurring patient bills to soar

TRENTON — Aetna, the second-largest health insurance company in New Jersey, notified 45,000 policy holders this month that unless contract negotiations improve soon with the state’s largest hospital network, patients will have to pay a lot more to use these facilities. The two-year contract between RWJBarnabas Health and Aetna will expire April 22, according to the…

Five Best Baseball Movies to Usher in a New Season

This year’s baseball season officially kicks off April 2, but excitement is already in the air. The sport, of course, is as synonymous with America as apple pie and July 4th. The cracking of a baseball against a bat marks the impending season summer — and sunshine. Baseball teams carry with them a level of loyalty…

Should Kids Have a Sleepover at a Recovering Addict's Home?

A sleepover is a great opportunity for kids to bond with one another. It enables a child to practice good manners, learn social boundaries and — perhaps most important — make new friends. There are many reasons why a parent should say “yes” to sleepovers. But how should you respond if your child asks to sleep…

Officials Expect Low Turnout for Saturday's Trump MAGA March in Seaside Heights

SEASIDE HEIGHTS-County and local officials estimate only about 400 to 800 people will be attending this weekend’s MAGA (Make America Great Again) March being held on the boardwalk in Seaside Heights.  According to those officials, the rally could be a bust with a very low turnout.

Warm weather is expected with sunny skies and temperatures in the high 50’s to mid 60’s are expected.

Traffic in Seaside Heights is still limited to a single lane on the Route 37 bridge leading to the barrier island peninsula.  From the north, marchers can use Route 35.

The march starts a 1pm and ends at 5pm.

You can get more details about the event here.

 

 

Great Events in April at Jackson's Great Adventure

Opening Weekend ­­– April 1 & 2

Six Flags Great Adventure celebrates 2017’s opening weekend April 1 and 2. Guests can enjoy their favorite attractions such as Kingda Ka, El Toro, Nitro and Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom. On the Safari Off Road Adventure, guests can see the park’s three adorable baby giraffes for the first time. Xena, Charly and Eddie roam the Afrikka section with their mothers, weather permitting.

 

Spring Break – April 8 to 17

Six Flags Great Adventure welcomes guests for 10 consecutive days to celebrate Spring Break. Each day, extreme thrill seekers can enjoy their favorite world-class roller coasters, and junior thrill seekers can take a spin on more than two dozen family and kids rides. Plus, guests can journey through six continents of exotic animals on Safari Off Road Adventure, watch playful California sea lions swim in the SeaFari Theater and see small exotic animals up close on the Wild Walkway.

 

Easter Weekend presented by PEEPS® – Egg Hunt April 15

On Saturday, April 15, Six Flags hosts a special Easter Celebration giving guests the chance to search for eggs filled with PEEPS®. The morning event also includes onsite entertainment, games and giveaways. The first 250 guests (toddlers to age 12) to arrive by 9:30 a.m. receive a PEEPS® Egg Hunt Participant Wristband and up to three spectator wristbands for friends and family members to join in the celebration. All participants and spectators must have valid park admission and must be present at check-in to receive their event wristband. The event takes place at 10 a.m., prior to park opening.

 

Fast Tracks and Food Trucks Festival – April 22 & 23

Six Flags Great Adventure fuels foodies at this fourth annual festival. Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines ranging from barbeque and tacos to hibachi and sliders, plus sweets including gourmet waffles and cupcakes. More than 15 trucks are available from 12 to 7 p.m., and several award-winning New Jersey wineries are also on hand from 1 to 5 p.m. The festival is included with theme park admission; food requires an additional fee and wine sampling requires a ticket and proof of age. Online discounted theme park tickets are available each day by using the promo code “TRUCK”.

 

Academic Adventures: Safari Off Road Education – April 18, 19, 25, & 26

Incorporating the Safari Off Road Adventure, Six Flags offers schools with students grades K through six a journey in learning. Experienced tour guides lead students through 1,200 animals from six continents on the 350-acre wildlife preserve. This program takes place on non-operating days when the theme park is not open and is limited to 400 students per day.

 

Academic Adventures: Biology Day – April 21

Six Flags is proud to bring biology students up close and personal with 1,200 large, exotic animals in the 350-acre wildlife preserve, and California sea lions, pygmy goats, Vietnamese potbellied pigs and more in the theme park. Experienced safari tour guides and animal care experts lead the day. This event takes place on exclusive education days when the theme park is only open for schools and educational groups.
General Park Information

For more information, guests can call 732/928-2000 or visit www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

Cattus Island Environmental Center Reopened Today

Press Release from Ocean County

TOMS RIVER – Ocean County officials celebrated the first days of spring with a grand reopening of the Cooper Environmental Center at Cattus Island County Park, here.

The Cooper Environmental Center which houses displays of wildlife and vegetation indigenous to the area and the Barnegat Bay watershed and provides a workshop area was flooded during Superstorm Sandy on Oct. 29, 2012.

The work included installing all new windows and replacing all the outside siding with a fiber and cement product to eliminate the potential for mold. The tile and carpet that was once inside the building was replaced with an epoxy-based floor.

High pressure laminate walls were installed and all the heating units were relocated to the attic and the air conditioning was raised.

When enjoying the renovated center, visitors are now greeted with a host of new inside displays including an Interactive Habitat Tree, a large climb-in Osprey nest with informational touch screen, live viewing camera of Ospreys on the marsh, touch tank and live animal tanks, a kids’ corner with educational and interactive game books, owl identification show case display, a shell sorting and identification table, a Wentz microscope for scientific investigation and a living green wall.

In addition, the renovation work also included upgrading the facility to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. And, the center’s program room was expanded to accommodate larger groups.

Lois Schoeck, chairperson of the Cattus Island Advisory Council, extended the council’s appreciation to the park staff and the volunteers.

“The staff put their heart and soul into bringing this center back from the storm,” she said. “I deeply appreciate all they did to get us here today.”

Gavan General Contracting Inc., the original contractor for the environmental center, was also the contractor for the renovation.

Ocean County is anticipating federal funding reimbursement, in part, for the work, since the building was damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

“Now that the work is done, the building is once again the centerpiece for the park and as it stands now it is much more resilient and can withstand future storms,” Bartlett said.

Cattus Island County Park has been reopened since the storm with most of its trails cleared and repaired.
A celebratory open house for the center has also been planned from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 25. The event is free and open to the public.

Photo: Handout photo by Ocean County.

Now YOU can be the captain of your own pirate ship on the Barnegat Bay

TOMS RIVER-Have you ever dreamed of sailing the Barnegat Bay in pirate ship? Now you have that chance.   The pirate ship “Pirate Time” is up for sale and costs just $195,000.

Pirate Time provided family adventure cruises, equipped with working water cannons.

According to the company’s website:

A young sophomore in high school, Yanni Pataikis, had a dream of sailing around on a pirate ship. Well one day, a few years later, that dream became a reality. With the help of his father, Captain John Pataikis, and aome friends, they decided to build a pirate ship that they found along the Deleware River. It was an old head boat that needed some work, but they got the single-propeller, deisel system running and brought the vessel to dry dock where the restoration process began.

Yanni and his father, and family friends John Binick and John Thormann proceeded to cut off the entire deck. The entire top of the boat was rebuilt. A new structure in the back, new bathroom, masts, rigging and electrical were added, modernizing the vessel while creating an authentic looking pirate ship. After investing more than $30,000, blood and sweat equity, and a dream, the PirateTimeNJ became a reality.

Now the 49 foot custom build ship is on the market. It features 16 water cannons, a new bathroom, 1,200 watt sound system and can hold up to 49 fellow pirates, according to an advertisement on Craigslist this week.

Long-awaited $128M beach replenishment to start in Ortley Beach next month

TOMS RIVER — Beach replenishment for the northern Ocean County peninsula is set to start the middle of next month, with Ortley Beach as the first spot to get the sand. State environmental protection officials said Weeks Marine Inc., the Cranford-based contractor selected to perform the $128 million project, will spend two weeks beginning mid-April pumping…

Deer stuck in frozen N.J. pond rescued but struggling to walk

ROXBURY – Officials rescued Sunday morning a deer stuck in a frozen pond for nearly 24 hours in Roxbury. The deer is out of the water but is struggling to walk on its own. The deer had been stuck in the pond located in a residential neighborhood overnight. An attempt to rescue the deer Saturday was…

Ordinance to ban dormitories in Jackson to be heard Thursday evening

JACKSON-The Jackson Township clerk has announced the rescheduling of Tuesday night’s cancelled council meeting where the council was expected to vote on a controversial ordinance to ban dormitories within the township.  The meeting will now be held Thursday night at 7:30pm at town hall.  The meeting is open to the public.  The ordinance is scheduled for a second and final reading and a public comment session will be afforded to the public.

RELATED NEWS: Is it too late for Jackson Township? Has the town already been sold to the highest bidder?
According to a statement released by the clerk:

Pursuant to the “Open Public Meetings Act”, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq., the Jackson Township Council hereby gives notice of a change in date of a previously scheduled Township Council  meeting.  The Jackson Township Council previously noticed a regular public meeting for Tuesday, March 14, 2017 commencing at 7:30 p.m.  Due to inclement weather, the meeting is hereby canceled and is rescheduled for Thursday, March 16, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.  The meeting will be held at the Jackson Township Municipal Building, 95 West Veterans Highway, Jackson, New Jersey.  Formal action will be taken.  No change in items listed on the 3/14/17 agenda.   There will be no executive session.

Jackson Township Put on Notice by Lawyer for "Religious Gerrymandering" Over Dorm Ban

JACKSON-The Township of Jackson, in New Jersey has been put on notice by a lawyer representing the growing community of Orthodox Jewish families within its borders.

Robert L. Greene, a lawyer from D.C. based Storzer & Associates wrote a letter to the editor, originally published in the Asbury Park Press, but received today by the Shore News Network.

Greene described Jackson Township’s recent proposal to ban dorms township-wide as “religious gerrymandering” and eluded that a lawsuit is imminent against the township.

The Jackson Township council is expected to pass an ordinance that restricts building school dormitories, commonly identified with housing for Orthodox Yeshivas in neighboring Lakewood Township.

The township council has been silent on the matter in public, with only councilman Barry Calogero stating he was looking forward voting yes to the ban.

His letter reads:

Jackson should take little comfort from the opinions expressed in the Feb. 24 article “Jackson looks to ban dorms” regarding its proposed ordinances targeting schools and dormitories.

Contrary to the claims made in the article, the facial neutrality of a law is only the starting point for a court’s analysis of whether it discriminates against a protected class.

More relevant to Jackson’s ordinances is the question of whether, as the Supreme Court put it, “the design of these laws accomplishes instead a ‘religious gerrymander,’ … an impermissible attempt to target” a particular religious group “and their religious practices.”

Jackson should consider itself placed on notice that its heavy-handed attempt to target a particular population could very well be challenged in an appropriate venue. In this day and age of building walls against other people and cultures, fear and panic should not supplant our important constitutional values.

Robert L. Greene

Storzer & Associates

Washington