Township Celebrates Distinguished Citizen of the Year, MTPD Promotions, and Community Member Achievements |
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 Distinguished Citizen of the Year John Drucker supported by Mayor Perry, Middletown Township Fire Chiefs Anthony Fulciniti, Daniel Kelly, and Kevin Morrissey, and his wife Jane. |
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At the Monday, June 24th Township Committee Meeting, Mayor Tony Perry and the Township Committee had the honor of recognizing a true pillar of our community and the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award, John Drucker. A volunteer firefighter since 1975, John's dedication to our town and its residents is unparalleled. In addition to his firefighter duties, he is a passionate advocate for first responders. One of John’s remarkable contributions to the Township has been the implementation of the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP). This is a state-authorized program that allows municipalities to reward emergency volunteers by establishing and contributing money into a savings account that is intended for retirement. As the Township's LOSAP Coordinator, John's time and talents are unmatched and appreciated by every dedicated volunteer, especially his peers in the world's largest all-volunteer fire department. Please join us in commending John for his unwavering commitment to the safety and betterment of our community. His service, leadership, and advocacy is an inspiration to us all. |
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 Pictured from left: Mayor Tony Perry, Sergeants Jason Troshane, Anthony Bumbico, Kevin Mahon, and Elzbieta Banel, Lieutenants Christopher Dee, Stephanie Geisel, and Brian McGrogan, Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden, Deputy Chief John Werner, and Police Chief R. Craig Weber |
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During the meeting, the Township Committee and Middletown Township Police Department Chiefs were able to celebrate the exceptional dedication of several officers who were sworn in and promoted to either the rank of Lieutenant or Sergeant. Christopher Dee, Stephanie Geisel, and Brian McGrogan were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, while Elzbieta Banel, Anthony Bumbico, Kevin Mahon, and Jason Troshane were sworn in as Sergeants. We thank them for their devotion to protecting our community and may they always stay safe. |
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 Mayor Tony Perry, along with Public Works & Engineering Director Ted Maloney, presented a framed photo of the Conover Beacon to master welder Justin VanArsdale to thank him for his restoration efforts. |
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As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, our community has been making a concerted effort to restore our historic landmarks. One of the most significant projects has been the restoration of the Conover Beacon in Leonardo. The revitalization of the beacon would not have been possible without the incredible work of Public Works employee and master welder, Justin VanArsdale. While many shied away from this daunting task, Justin stepped up to the challenge. With the help of a dedicated team of fellow Public Works employees, Justin led the effort to restore and repaint this historic structure. Leonardo resident, Vinny Moran, was also recognized for providing the Township with a plethora of information about the beacon and for his persistence in ensuring this historic landmark illuminated our shores once again. We appreciate John and Vinny's leadership and thank all who were involved in this restoration. |
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 Mayor Perry and Middletown High School South Head Coach Vic Bayers, Jr. celebrated with State Champion and Villanova-bound Rosie Shay |
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During the meeting, Mayor Perry and the Township Committee had the pleasure of recognizing recent Middletown High School South graduate Rosie Shay for her incredible achievement of winning the state championship in the 3200 meter race at the 2024 NJSIAA Track & Field Meet of Champions in June. Rosie, who was supported by her coach Vic Bayers during the presentation, was extremely humble while the Mayor spoke about her athletic accomplishments, which also included winning this same indoor championship in March, as well as third place in the 2024 NJSIAA Cross Country Meet of Champions. We congratulate Rosie on her success and wish her the best as she prepares to attend Villanova University in the fall. |
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 Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR, Middletown Chapter) Youth Citizenship Award winner Rylee Higgins with DAR Vice Regent Serena Schreiber, members Kim Best and Molly McCabe, her proud family, and Detective Ricardo Cruz |
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The Township Committee, with the help of the Middletown chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), had the privilege of recognizing Middletown High School North student Rylee Higgins who received the DAR Youth Citizenship Award Medal and accompanying certificate for her outstanding leadership, honor, courage, service, and patriotism. She was nominated by Middletown Police Explorer Advisor Detective Ric Cruz. At 14 years old, Rylee has already made significant contributions to our community. Her love for music and performance is evident through her active participation in the school chorus and drama productions. Rylee also swam competitively during the school year, and she volunteers with the Middletown Police Explorers, Middletown Helps Its Own, and the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore. Rylee's father is a Middletown Township Police Lieutenant and her mother is a nurse practitioner, so it appears she has inherited a keen sense of community service and desire to help others. Congratulations to Rylee on receiving this prestigious award! \ |
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Congratulations to the First Middletown Township Police Youth Week Graduates of the Summer!
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 Committeewoman Kimberly Kratz was delighted to take a photo with the Middletown Township Police Department officers who run this beloved program and a few of the newest graduates! |
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 Some of the dedicated MTPD officers who help make Police Youth Week a wonderful learning experience for the kids. |
Middletown Township Police Department (MTPD) just held its first Police Youth Week Camp of the summer! There were 60 children, between the ages of 8 to 11, who participated in this program that gave them their first exposure to law enforcement at the recruit phase. The Police Youth Week program, run by Detective Ric Cruz, is a combination of classroom style learning and physical training. Participants learned firsthand about a wide variety of law enforcement training and techniques including officer safety, internet safety, crime scene investigations, traffic enforcement, and the K-9 unit. The program also emphasized the importance of citizenship and community policing. The week concluded with a graduation ceremony at the Brookdale Community College's Student Life Center. Each graduate received a certificate and a well-earned challenge coin. Committeewoman Kimberly Kratz, Detective Ric Cruz, and many officers were present to congratulate each child. Kudos to our newest Police Youth Week graduates and the dedicated officers who run this amazing program – Sgt. Carr, Sgt. Heaton, Cpl. Buhowksi, Cpl. Riffert, Cpl. Seymour, Sgt. Mahon, Ptl. Zubkow, and Ptl. Lanfranco, and volunteers Noah Fleming, Rylee Higgins, Thea Rowland, Marlowe Schorr, Mia Collins, Lilah Nicosia, Gabby Bracchi, Isabelle Bracchi, and Alex Rowland! Special thanks to Laurie Tietjen and her staff at Freedom Reins for the fun activities on that horse farm and free ice cream sundaes!
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MTPD Reminds Residents about Fireworks Regulations
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Click HERE to read the Middletown Township Police Department's (MTPD) advisory. |
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The Middletown Recycling Center, Middletown Township Public Library, and Middletown Arts Center will also be closed. |
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Kudos to Middletown Crossing Guards for Completing Another Successful School Year!
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 Middletown Crossing Guard Supervisor Dominick Donatelli is all smiles while showing off the thank-you note! |
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Now that the 2023-2024 school year is officially over, Middletown Crossing Guard Supervisor Dominick Donatelli would like to thank all our crossing guards for their hard work! Throughout the school year, our crossing guards have withstood the cold, heat, and everything in between to help ensure the safety of our residents. As a small token of appreciation, students from Bayview Elementary School gave a thank you note to Crossing Guard Carol Frank. Thank you to all of our dedicated crossing guards! |
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Troop 140 Boy Scout Soars to Eagle Scout Rank
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 Committeeman Ryan Clarke, an Eagle Scout, attended the Court of Honor Ceremony to help recognize Niall's achievement. |
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Last weekend, Niall Jason Stravos from Boy Scout Troop 140 advanced to the impressive rank of Eagle Scout. Committeeman Ryan Clarke was honored to attend his Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony to personally congratulate him and present him with a certificate on behalf of the Township Committee. Eagle Scouts must complete service projects to earn this prestigious title. For Niall's project, he planned, organized, gathered materials and donations, and supervised the repair and refurbishment of VFW Post 2179's (1 Veterans Lane, Port Monmouth) outdoor gazebo. He also built a new horseshoe pit for the Post. He spent a total of 149 hours on his project! We are so proud of Niall for this amazing achievement. Congratulations, Niall! |
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Middletown Elks Lodge No. 2179 Become State Champions and Compete in National Competition
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 Mayor Tony Perry and Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger pose with the state champs! (Photo courtesy of Ginger Smith) |
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Last weekend, Mayor Tony Perry stopped by the Middletown Elks Lodge No. 2179 to wish the members luck as they head off to a national competition! In February, they won first place in the State Ritual Competition. In July, they will represent New Jersey at the Grand Lodge Ritual Competition in Austin, Texas. Mayor Perry was thrilled to attend their send-off event and personally congratulate each member with a certificate on behalf of the Township Committee. We wish them all the best! |
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Residents Can Bring Brush to Middletown Recycling Center Free of Charge |
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In July 2026, the United States will mark its 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence – and Middletown is preparing to celebrate in a monumental way! Middletown’s America 250 Committee has already started planning thoughtful ways to commemorate this historic milestone by paying tribute to our nation’s past and the part that Middletown played in it. This multi-year initiative will run from July 1, 2024 through July 4, 2026. Much like the Bicentennial Celebration of 1976, this observance will offer a plethora of ways to learn about Middletown’s history before and during the Revolutionary War and explore the significant role it had in founding the nation. We are excited to embark on this journey toward celebrating this momentous occasion in our nation’s history! |
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Buy Tickets for Lafayette Bicentennial Sunset Cruise Happening on Wednesday, 8/14 from 5:30-9:00 PM
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The Middletown Township Committee encourages residents to join our America 250 celebration by purchasing tickets for the Lafayette Bicentennial Sunset Cruise happening in August. Attendees will sail the waters of the Sandy Hook Bay and see America as Marquis de Lafayette, a French nobleman who fought in the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War, did during his farewell tour exactly two centuries ago. Click HERE for more information and to buy tickets. |
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Listen to Local County Tales at "Stories 'Round the Campfire" on Sunday, 8/18 at 7:30 PM
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Middletown's America 250 Committee is partnering with Middletown Township and The Sand Hill Indian Association to host Stories 'Round the Campfire on Sunday, August 18th at the Middletown Arts Center's lawn (36 Church Street)! We encourage everyone to join us for this free event as we dig deep into our community's rich history and listen to local county tales under the moonlight, similar to how Native American tribes used to hold powwows many centuries ago. Attendees will be able to make s'mores and are encouraged to bring their own lawn chair and/or blanket. |
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Local Business Owners Encouraged to Provide Discounts to USS NEW JERSEY Sailors in September
Attention local business owners! Please consider supporting the USS NEW JERSEY’s sailors when they are in Middletown this September as the Navy introduces its next warship. We are looking for businesses to offer coupons to say “thank you” to the brave men and women who serve our country. Click HERE to learn more.
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Due to an anticipated Presidential visit in Middletown today, Saturday, June 29th, motorists should expect delays, intermittent road closures, and temporary frozen zones (no vehicles, pedestrians, or bikes on roadway) in the afternoon through the evening hours. Portions of Navesink River Road and Locust Point Road are expected to be closed throughout the day.
Please avoid the area and plan alternate routes. Thank you! |
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Register for Middletown's Emergency Alerts & Updates
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Register Now for Middletown Recreation's "Tuesdays Beach Volleyball" Program
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It's not too late to sign up for Middletown Recreation's weekly coed volleyball program happening this summer at Ideal Beach! There are dedicated slots for teens and adults. No experience required. This program is drop-in style with teams picked weekly. You can also register for a full session to save money. Click HERE for more information. |
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Sign Up Now for Middletown Recreation's Skateboarding Summer Camp!
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Shred with Coach Dave at Middletown Recreation's Skateboarding Camp! Learn the basics or improve your skills in the Beginner and Intermediate classes. Lessons will take place at the newly opened Kunkel Park Skate Park in Leonardo. Please bring your own equipment. Helmets are required and padding is recommended. Limited space is available, so click HERE to register today! |
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Register Now for Middletown Recreation's Gone Running Youth Camp!
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Beat the heat with this summer running program held on the partially-shaded field and running trails behind Thompson Middle School (1001 Middletown-Lincroft Road). This camp is designed to offer two separate training platforms to meet the needs of each specific age group: middle school and elementary. Click HERE for more information and to register. |
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Complete the MTPL's Makerspace Survey!
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The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) is in the process of renovating the building with an anticipated completion in Fall 2024. As a result, a brand new Makerspace Room will be available! This room will have various types of maker and crafting equipment that all members of the public will be invited to utilize.
At this time, the MTPL is reviewing possible room equipment and developing hours of use, as well as seeking more information from the public to best meet your needs and preferences.
Click HERE to complete the survey. |
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Apply for the MTPL's 2024 Conover-Wihtol Scholarship by Monday, 7/1
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The MTPL is now accepting applications for the 2024 Conover-Wihtol Scholarship, open to all NJ residents studying library science. The deadline to apply is Monday, July 1st. Click HERE for more information and to download the application. |
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Calling All Teens: Participate in MTPL's Cards for a Cause Program on Wednesday, 7/3 from 3-6 PM
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Drop by the MTPL (55 New Monmouth Road) to make greeting cards for local seniors in Middletown! Volunteer hours will be offered for each card. There is a limit of five cards and a total of five hours. Volunteers must be between 12-18 years old. |
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Purchase Tickets Now for The MAC Players' Legally Blonde The Musical!
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A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances – this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! Click HERE for more information and to buy tickets. |
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Join Community Discussion at the North Middletown-Port Monmouth Family Fun Day on Thursday, 7/11 from 4-7 PM
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Last month, Middletown Township, the Affordable Housing Alliance, Ideal Beach Community Association, Bayshore Family Success Center, and Habitat for Humanity hosted a community meeting about the North Middletown-Port Monmouth Neighborhood Plan and Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program. A second community discussion was originally planned for June 6th, but was postponed. The community is now invited to attend the rescheduled North Middletown-Port Monmouth Family Fun Day at the Tonya Keller Community Center (50 Bray Avenue) on Thursday, July 11th for this second community discussion. We encourage residents who live in the planning area to complete this Google survey. Visit www.housingall.org/middletownnrtc for more information. |
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Buy Tickets for Middletown Night at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws Happening on Friday, 7/26 at 7 PM
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Join Middletown Recreation for Middletown Night at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws in July. Sit with our community as we cheer on the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. A $20 ticket includes food, boardwalk game tickets, fireworks, and more! Click HERE for more information and to purchase tickets. |
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Join MTFD at Touch-A-Truck on Monday, 7/29 from 6-9 PM
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On Monday, July 29th, stop by the Mater Dei High School parking lot for the Middletown Township Fire Department's (MTFD) second annual Touch-A-Truck to check out fire trucks, food trucks, games, and fire safety demonstrations! |
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Middletown OEM Provides Hurricane Safety Tips
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As hurricane season is underway, Middletown's Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Operations Chief Charlie Ehret presents hurricane preparedness tips for residents in this public service announcement (PSA). Click HERE to watch the PSA on the Township's YouTube channel or catch it on our TV channel (Verizon FiOS Channel 26/Comcast Cable Channel 20). |
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Know Someone with a Disability? Make Sure They Register with NJ Register Ready!
Middletown’s Office of Emergency Management encourages residents with disabilities to register with NJ Register Ready. This free program is designed to assist first responders and emergency planners in identifying community members who may need assistance evacuating in advance of an emergency. For more information about the program and the three ways you can register, visit www.middletownnj.org/oem.
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Planning a Vacation? Renew Your Passport at the Middletown Town Hall Passport Acceptance Agency
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The Middletown Township Clerk's Office would like to remind residents about the Middletown Town Hall Passport Acceptance Agency (1 Kings Highway). Please visit www.middletownnj.org/passports for more information. You can also email passport@middletownnj.org or call 732-615-2014 if you have any questions. |
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Recycle Your Fridge/Freezer with JCP&L and Receive $50
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The Middletown Township Department of Public Works & Engineering encourages residents to recycle their working fridge or freezer to receive $50 from JCP&L! You can also recycle your air conditioners or dehumidifiers along with your fridge or freezer and earn an additional $25. JCP&L will collect the item and recycle it for you. You can either schedule a pickup online or by calling 888-314-8141.
Click HERE for more information and to schedule a pickup online. |
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How to Report a Neighborhood Safety Concern The Safety Council of Middletown would like to hear from residents about any safety concerns that may be occurring in their neighborhood. The Safety Council is an advisory board that reviews safety concerns in the township and provides guidance to the Township Committee and the Police Department. Some safety issues the board can help address include: - Speeding
- Parking on busy roads that impact traffic flow
- Traffic not adhering to crosswalk or stop signs
- Sidewalks that are uprooted or damaged that could cause someone to fall
If you would like a safety issue addressed, please inform the Council so they can help you achieve a successful outcome. You can report your safety concern by contacting the Middletown Crossing Guard Office at 732-615-2100 ext. 2044, emailing bpfleger@middletownnj.org, or visiting www.middletownnj.org/reportaconcern.
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Click HERE to access hi-res photos from thise-newsletter. |
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Verizon FiOS Channel 26/Comcast Cable Channel 20
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