Christmas Tree Lighting

from Middletown  Minutes:

Sunday, December 4, 2016 - 5:00-8:00pm

Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church St, Middletown

FREE - Middletown Residents Only

Join us in kicking off the holiday season with an exciting tree lighting ceremony. The day’s FREE art activities and entertainment will be enjoyed by hundreds of local families and features New Jersey’s only Tuba Christmas performance, an art exhibition, tree lighting, visit from Santa, carols, children’s crafts, cartooning, and a 50/50 raffle. The Tuba Christmas performance is a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day 1902. Tuba and euphonium players of all ages are invited to perform. Enjoy select acts from the Winter Wonderland Variety Show. Funded and managed by the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council.

July 20, 2015 Middletown Township Committee Meeting

At the July 20th meeting of the Middletown Township Committee, four new police officers were sworn in. The key to the city was presented to 3 volunteer firefighters with over 50 years of service each.

Ordinances were adopted to amend the township code regarding development and the other amended ordinance 2014-3116 to install a crosswalk at the arts center.

Ordinances were introduced to increase day care fees at Tonya Keller, amend the salary ordinance, define parking regulations at commuter lots and to establish an EMS department.

Many resolutions were adopted, some of which authorizes the Planning Board to evaluate if the wetlands area of Belford, including the seafood co-op, can be designated as a redevelopment zone. A liquor license was also granted to the Ice World / Junior Titans Hockey Club arena. A contract was awarded for $392k to install a dispatch and records management system for the police computers. The contract to issued to Bennett Landscaping, to collect brush in town, was increased from $49k to $140K.



As always, you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Middletown Summer Concert Series

from Middletown Alerts:

FREE! Every other Tuesday starting July 14th, 7-9 pm
Middletown Art Center's Northern Lawn

The public is invited to bring their lawn chairs, blankets and refreshments. Alcohol is prohibited. Free parking is on site. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be moved indoors. Call the MAC at 732-706-4100 or visit www.middletownnj.org for more information. The series is presented by the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council and the Middletown Recreation Department

Upcoming Shows:
July 14th: Rave On
July 28th: Goldenseal
August 11th: The Weeklings
August 25th: The Kootz

Grow Monmouth Roundtable at Middletown Arts Center Jan. 27; Local Business Owners And Managers Invited To Attend

From Middletown Alerts:

Monmouth County Freeholder Thomas A. Arnone is inviting Middletown business owners and managers to a Grow Monmouth roundtable at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at the Middletown Arts Center at 36 Church St.

“This roundtable is being done in partnership with the governing body of Middletown,” said Arnone, liaison to the County’s Division of Economic Development. “It is important for local officials, business owners and managers to get together to discuss ways to grow business, economy and community in Monmouth County.”

The Grow Monmouth roundtables mark the first time that the Board of Chosen Freeholders has partnered with the governing body of municipalities to encourage direct conversation with business owners and managers.

“Business owners and managers are encouraged to discuss zoning and regulations that impact business success,” said Arnone. “Issues that support and foster business growth, as well as issues that make it difficult for businesses to thrive and expand, will be part of the discussions. Attendees are invited to make suggestions to officials on how to best resolve issues.”

Contact the Division of Economic Development for more information at 732-431-7470. The roundtables are part of the County’s Grow Monmouth program offers assistance to both municipalities and businesses to help spur economic development in the County.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Extravaganza Sunday, December 7th

From Middletown Alerts:

This free annual event hosted by the Middletown Arts Center will begin outside with caroling, the tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa Claus on the fire truck. The event will continue indoors with hot chocolate and treats, holiday crafts for the children and pictures with Santa. It is requested that those interested in getting pictures taken with Santa bring their own camera.

The MAC will also be collecting items for Operation Jersey Cares and attendees can make a holiday card for the troops. Click here suggested items most needed by troops.

The MAC’s 2014 Winter Wonderland Art Exhibition will be on display in the gallery throughout the event. Art submissions accepted December 1-2, 11 am to 7pm. The Opening Reception will be 3-5pm on Sunday, December 7th before the extravaganza begins.

The Middletown Arts Center will also present a Christmas Variety Show featuring dancers from instructor Miss Deena’s dance program and musicians of all ages from across the region participating in TubaChristmas. More details at www.tubachristmas.com.

Performance By TubaChristmas At Middletown's Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza Dec. 7th

Middletown, N.J. (November 25, 2014) – On Sunday, December 7, 2014 at 5:00 p.m., the Middletown
Arts Center (MAC), located at 36 Church Street in Middletown, N.J., will host Middletown's Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza. The free annual event will begin outside with caroling, the tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa Claus on the fire truck. The event will continue indoors with hot chocolate and treats, holiday crafts for the children and pictures with Santa. It is requested that those interested in getting pictures taken with Santa bring their own camera. The MAC will also be collecting items for Operation Jersey Cares and attendees can make a holiday card for the troops. The MAC’s 2014 Winter Wonderland Art Exhibition will be on display in the gallery throughout the event.

The Middletown Arts Center will also present a Christmas Variety Show featuring dancers from instructor Miss Deena’s dance program and musicians of all ages from across the region participating in TubaChristmas. Tuba and euphonium players who are interested in participating in the TubaChristmas performance at the MAC can contact Joseph Lawlor at 732-787-4067. More details at www.tubachristmas.com.

About TubaChristmas
TubaChristmas is a music concert held in cities worldwide that celebrates those who play, teach and compose music for instruments in the tuba family, including the tuba, sousaphone, baritone and euphonium. Some participants bring rarer members of the family such as the hélicon, ophicleide, serpent and double bell euphonium. TubaChristmas concerts vary in size from a quartet (two euphoniums and two tubas), to several hundred at their largest events. Any musician can play in a TubaChristmas concert as long as he or she plays an instrument in the tuba family. Visit www.tubachristmas.com for more information.

About the Middletown Arts Center
The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) is an award-winning, state-of-the-art facility run by the nonprofit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council and is dedicated to bringing quality arts programming and events to Middletown and surrounding communities. The MAC offers enrichment programs and entertainment for all ages and abilities. Visit www.middletownarts.org for more information. The MAC can also be found on Facebook at Middletown Arts Center and Twitter @MiddletownArts.

First The Library, Now Poricy Park ?

Not sure how many people have heard of this and i'm just throwing it out there as food for thought and wondering what the thinking was.

Every year the Township gives the Poricy Park Conservatory (overseers of Poricy Park) an allotment of dollars towards its annual budget. This money goes to support the Poricy Park Conservatory's operating expenses. This year's $25,000 allotment instead  was placed by the Township in the Capital Improvements budget, not the operations budget. This caused a deficit in  PPC's FY 2014 budget since they were not told about it until last moment.

So, let's think about this a minute and speculate a little.

Why would the township suddenly place money that is earmarked yearly for operating expenses into the capital improvements budget? One, it saves the town $25K in current cash. Two, assuming that "capital improvements" equates to debt issue, it allows an additional $25K to be raised in debt and moved outside of the 2% cap.

"Capital Improvements" may not mean debt issue, though. it could mean the delegation of town staff to do work at Poricy Park. Or it could mean that the township pays contractors of its own choosing in lieu of letting PPC decide. This puts control of the spending in township hands.

 Meanwhile the Middletown Arts Center keeps getting more money.....

October 6, 2014 Middletown Township Committee Meeting

I can't believe that I haven't posted a video of the Middletown Township Committee meetings since the August 18th,2014 meeting. That's probably because the last few meetings haven't lasted very long and nothing of note has taken place much like this one from Oct. 6th, which lasted only 25 minutes.

There were two discussions of note that I found somewhat informational. The first being that the township is looking to add some type of coffee shop at the Middletown train station that would possibly be housed in the Arts Center building. The second was that Middletown has an over-abundance of leaf mulch and wood chips that they are looking to either sell or give away to other towns.  So if you need some late season mulch before the winter sets in, go get it before it is carted off to other towns.



As always, you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Middletown Arts Center Presents Savor the Arts Series of Cultural Experiences

Series Begins With Celebration of Italian Culture Through Cuisine and Performance, November 14 – 16

Middletown, NJ (September 18, 2014) – Starting in November 2014, the Middletown Arts Center (MAC), located at 36 Church Street in Middletown, NJ, will offer a unique way to enjoy artistic experiences from around the globe with Savor the Arts, a series of culture-specific events that blend performances with culinary tastings, exhibits, workshops, armchair travel presentations and more. Patrons will have the opportunity to enjoy engaging activities that bring a particular culture to life.

Each multi-sensory weekend will be a mini-cultural immersion meant to educate and entertain. The Savor the Arts series begins with a celebration of Italian culture from November 14 – 16. Events include armchair travel presentations on the Almafi Coast and Puglia, as well as culinary tastings, a Paint and Sip Workshop featuring an Italian scene, an exquisite presentation of Italian art and music, and the Off-Broadway One-Man Production “Blood-Type: Ragu.” Information regarding the events will be posted on www.middletownarts.org.

“Blood-Type: Ragu,” written and performed by actor/playwright Frank Ingrasciotta, will debut at the Arts Center on Saturday, November 15. Ingrasciotta gives a tour-de-force one-man performance in this funny and tender coming-of-age story exploring the first-generation American's delicate dance between culture and identity. The actor plays more than 20 characters who live, love and laugh in this fast-paced journey that is both comedic and dramatic. The New York Times has called it, "A garrulous and enlightening production with a lasting rewarding flavor.”

As part of the series, the Middletown Arts Center will produce the Savor the Arts Cookbook featuring Italian recipes from the Middletown Township community. The public is asked to visit www.typensave.com and log in to submit their recipes, using the username MAC2014 and password fresh185. Only 150 recipes will be included in the cookbook. The deadline for recipe submission is October 1, 2014. Advertising space is available in the cookbook as well.

This celebration of Italian art and culture is made possible by support from individuals and local businesses. For information on a range of sponsorship packages that include participation and marketing communication options please contact Jen Packer at jpacker@middletownnj.org.

Calendar Project Artwork By Elementary School Students On Display at Arts Center

Middletown, N.J. (August 28, 2014) – In honor of the 350th Anniversary of Middletown, students from twelve Middletown elementary schools reproduced their artwork from the annual “My Middletown School Year Calendar Project” on 4’ x 4’ mural panels, currently displayed at the Middletown Arts Center (MAC), located at 36 Church Street in Middletown, N.J. The mural panels have been on display since the Middletown 350 Parade on June 21, 2014 and will be relocated for display to Croydon Hall for Middletown Day on September 27, 2014.

The “My Middletown School Year Calendar Project” was started in 2010 by Linda Kish, who serves
on the Board of Trustees of the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council. Participating Middletown elementary schools include Middletown Village, Harmony, Lincroft, Leonardo, New Monmouth, Ocean Avenue, Navesink, Fairview, Bayview, Nutswamp, Port Monmouth and River Plaza Elementary Schools. The students work with their art teachers to create artwork of places around Middletown Township. Each elementary school teacher presents the project to the fourth and fifth grade students and several entries are selected. The selected entries are then forwarded to the Middletown Arts Center, which makes the final selection of art featured in the calendar.


This year’s calendar design was created by the Middletown High School North Graphic Design Class with instructor Dorothy Bagley. The Middletown Township Cultural & Arts Council produces the calendar each year and they are posted up at Middletown schools and throughout Middletown Township.

The Calendar Project would not be possible without the work of art teachers Diane Bajor, Sharon Stafflinger, Mary Henderson, Lisa Montibello, Laurie O’Keefe, and Doreen Georgiou. Principals Kathy Sidoti and Karen Zupancic were instrumental in coordinating the multiple aspects of the project including the painting of the panels. Mrs. Sidoti and Mrs. Zupancic served as liaisons between the art teachers, students, PTAs, the Arts Center and the Township. We even had the participation of the parents who were brave enough to come trace their children’s drawings onto the aluminum surfaces. Other students also pitched in to help with the painting.

“The Calendar Project is a great collaboration between the Middletown Public Schools and the Arts Council,” said Maggie O'Brien, Executive Director of the Middletown Arts Center. “We really enjoy partnering with the schools on enriching arts programs and experiences. This year’s Calendar Project was extra-special because of our 350 Celebration and the creation of the beautiful murals. I love seeing the student’s creativity. The pictures they draw capture all that is special about Middletown. I wish we could use all of the artwork created. It gives us a very special and unique view of our township.”

A reception was held earlier this month at the Middletown Arts Center to honor the young artists and showcase their artwork to the general public. Calendar posters will be available to the public free of charge after the reception. Call 732-706-4100 for more information.


********************

• Photo 1: Calendar winners (from left to right): Sabrina Mendez, Victoria Povall, Chloe Zenker, Georgia T., Volunteer - unsure of name, Peyton Le Bourveau, JJ Bifulco, Richard Ens
• Photo 2: Calendar winner Sabrina Mendez and two teachers with mural
• Photo 3: Calendar winner JJ Bifulco with mural

Middletown Arts Center Helps Summer Camper Raise $150,000 for Pediatric Cancer Research and Awareness

Middletown, N.J. (August 13, 2014) – Each summer the Middletown Arts Center (MAC) provides a creative atmosphere for hundreds of campers of all ages from across Middletown and surrounding communities. This summer four-year old Natalie Grace Gorsegner of Middletown attended camp at the MAC to prepare for school, following a two-year battle with cancer. Her courageous and philanthropic spirit has inspired an entire community to work towards raising $150,000 for childhood cancer research and awareness by her birthday on September 28, 2014.

Natalie Grace Gorsegner was diagnosed on August 16, 2012 with high-risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. She attended morning sessions of Art Camp at the MAC with her sister Hannah, age 7, and Miss Laurie Ruggeri. Natalie’s mom Andrea felt the MAC provided the ideal environment to take baby steps and start acclimating her to a school environment. She will be attending Kindergarten in Fall 2015.

“Natalie Grace has lost so much of her social skills and has had little desire to be around other people and kids. The energy was just too overwhelming for her,” said Andrea “The Middletown Arts Center has been wonderful, allowing us to socialize her on her own time in a loving and nurturing environment. We have bonded in an indescribable way since she was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2012, and it has been hard for me to leave her with others.”

Today, her family, mom Andrea, dad Dan, sister Hannah, and friends at the Middletown Arts Center are hoping to make her birthday wish come true by raising $150,000 for pediatric cancer research and awareness by September 28, 2014.

Donations collected at the Arts Center, and during other fundraisers that include art auctions and benefit events organized by the Gorsegner family, will support the work of the nonprofit organization, The Truth 365, a grass-roots documentary film and social media campaign that gives a voice to children fighting cancer.

“Miss Laurie has a special gift for bringing love and joy into children’s lives through art. She worked magic with all of the children in her care, but especially with Natalie and her sister. It was quite touching. The Middletown Arts Center is a magical place. ”

Donations in honor of Natalie Grace’s Birthday Wish are accepted at the Middletown Arts Center, located at 36 Church Street in Middletown, NJ (next to the train station).

The Gorsegner family also invites the general public to join them for their benefit dinner at McCloone’s Pier House in Long Branch on September 4th from 6– 10 p.m. Tickets are $100 each and include dinner, open bar, valet parking, and a live performance by singer-songwriter Mikey Wax, named "Artist to Watch" by iHeart radio. Visit the Facebook page “Infinite Love for Natalie Grace” to purchase tickets.



About the Middletown Arts Center


The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) is an award-winning, state-of-the-art facility run by the nonprofit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council and is dedicated to bringing quality arts programming and events to Middletown and surrounding communities. The MAC offers enrichment programs and entertainment for all ages and abilities. Visit www.middletownarts.org for more information. The MAC can also be found on Facebook at Middletown Arts Center and Twitter @MiddletownArts.



Middletown 350 Anniversary Gala, Parade & Time Capsule Celebration June 20-21

From Middletown Alerts:


Middletown Township is dedicating the third weekend in June to celebrating the township’s official founding 350 years in 1664. This jam-packed weekend features a formal gala, parade and burial of the Middletown 350 time capsule.

The festivities begin on Friday, June 20th at the Middletown 350 Anniversary Gala. This formal evening will be held from 7-11 pm at the Middletown Arts Center. Tickets are $85 and include two glasses of wine or beer, dinner, dancing, a preview of the Middletown 350 Time Capsule, casino tables, and more than more 30 prizes donated by local businesses. Tickets can be purchased at www.midletownarts.org or in person at the Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church Street. Call 732-706-4100 for details.

The Middletown 350 Parade and Time Capsule Celebration begins with a parade on Saturday, June 21 at 11 am at Middletown High School North, 63 Tindall Road. Hundreds of friends and neighbors will show their hometown pride by marching 1.6 miles along Tindall Road and across Route 35 into the oldest section of township, Middletown Village. The parade then continues along historic Kings Highway and down Church Street to Middletown Arts Center, 36 Church Street. On-line parade registration is closed. Call 732-615-2260 for information.

After the parade, a brief ceremony will be held on the lawn adjacent to the Middletown Arts Center to mark the burial of Middletown 350 Time Capsule. The ceremony is part of the Time Capsule Celebration. This family-friendly celebration begins at 11 am on the Arts Center lawn and includes live entertainment and children’s activities. Food, drinks and snacks will be available for sale.

Free parking for the Time Capsule celebration will be available in the main parking lot at the Middletown Train Station. Please remember that the parade route will be closed to traffic as it travels along Tindall Road, across Route 35, to Kings Highway and Church Street. Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes late morning and early afternoon.

The 50-year time capsule will be surrounded by an “Anniversary Plaza” designed with personalized bricks. Donors who purchase a brick will have their special message be part of this beautiful plaza for years to come and also will help the Middletown Arts Council continue its mission of bringing enriching arts programming to the community. Those interested in purchasing a brick can download an order form at www.middletownarts.org or visit the Arts Center.

Whirl Construction is donating labor and equipment needed to install the plaza and assist with digging the hole for the time capsule. Marturano Recreation Company (MRC) is donating two benches that will be installed at Anniversary Plaza.

The Middletown 350 Committee reserves the right to cancel the Middletown 350 Parade and Time Capsule Celebration in the event of inclement weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather conditions, the Parade and Time Capsule Celebration will be moved to Sunday, June 22nd if weather conditions permit.

Visit www.middletownnj.org for a full list of Middletown 350 activities, memorabilia available for sale, and to learn more about the township’s rich history.

Middletown 350 Brick Fundraiser: Volunteers Pave the Way for Arts Programming

For Immediate Release:


50th ANNIVERSARY BRICK FUNDRAISER LAUNCHES WITH PERSONAL MESSAGES OF SUPPORT FROM MIDDLETOWN ARTS CENTER VOLUNTEERS

CJ Marsini Performing (Credit: Tammy Marsini)

Middletown, N.J. (May 19, 2014) – The Middletown Arts Council is excited to launch a brick campaign to celebrate Middletown’s 350th Anniversary and raise funds for arts programming. A 50-year Time Capsule will be buried on the lawn at the Middletown Arts Center, surrounded by an “Anniversary Plaza” designed with personalized bricks. Donors who purchase a brick will have their special message be part of this beautiful plaza for years to come and also will help the Middletown Arts Council continue its mission of bringing enriching arts programming to the community.

The Arts Center’s Executive Director Maggie O’Brien has been thrilled to receive donations of bricks from several of her volunteers. “These are individuals who have donated their time and now their dollars to express their appreciation for the organization,” said O’Brien. “It’s touching to read their messages and realize just how much the Arts Center means to them. It’s also wonderful to see members of the community express themselves in these bricks.”

Nineteen-year-old CJ Marsini of Middletown stepped up with a brick donation. Marsini performed in the Arts Council’s first Talent Show at the age of seven. He has grown up on the Middletown Arts Center’s stage and has volunteered at the MAC in numerous capacities from performer to summer camp counselor. His mother, photographer Tammy Marsini, serves on the Board of the non-profit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council, which operates the Arts Center.

"I am so proud of CJ for everything he has accomplished and all that’s in store for him in the future," says Tammy. "The first time he performed in the Art Center's Talent Show he was very shy. Through the years, he continued to perform at the MAC and each time his confidence grew. I am grateful to Maggie and her team for always providing a fun, welcoming environment and for providing CJ with many performance opportunities to hone his craft. He considers the MAC his home away from home.” CJ will be leaving this fall to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston. “It’s been an honor to see CJ grow into such a talented musician and wonderful young man,” says O’Brien. “Like so many children in our community, the arts played an important role in his life. When we nurture our children with arts experiences, they are equipped to succeed.”

To Kathy Rauffer and her late husband, Walt Rauffer, a pioneer in television broadcasting and engineering, the Middletown Arts Center meant more to them than just bricks and mortar. Walt donated his expertise and time to create the Art Center’s state-of-the-art theater sound and lighting system and worked the equipment for performances. The Rauffer Family purchased a brick in his honor.

“Walt started volunteering in 2007. He felt the organization was truly community focused and he loved the diversity there,” says Kathy. “With so many threats to the arts, Walt wanted others to see the value the Arts Center offered, and he praised its value every chance he had. He wanted people to embrace it, and get behind everything it offered.”

Walt was Technical Director for the Children’s Television Network’s Sesame Street, The Electric Company, and many other commercial sets. He worked with stars like Big Bird, Jim Henson and the Muppets, Mr. Rodgers and Bill Cosby. Highlights from Walt’s career include the creation of the first mobile news truck, the creation of Sesame Street’s first tape room at its 81st Street Theater set, and a 1978 Emmy Win for “Christmas Eve on Sesame Street.” According to Kathy, “Walt told me that when he graduated from RCA Institute and told his father he was getting a job in television, his father said “Why don’t you get a job in something that will last?” Walt just knew when something felt right and had the potential to grow and take off. That’s the way he felt about the Middletown Arts Center –he knew it would succeed. ”

The Arts Center relies on donor contributions to maintain its affordable, year-round arts and cultural programs. In 2013, the MAC boasted over 60,000 visits from area residents of all ages and abilities. Those interested in purchasing a brick can download an order form at www.middletownarts.org or visit the Arts Center.

The public is invited to the Time Capsule Celebration on June 21. This free, family friendly event will feature a parade, the burying of the Time Capsule, entertainment and more! Brick donors will be recognized at this event and the “Anniversary Plaza” will be dedicated later in the year.

March in the Middletown 350 Parade June 21st!

From Middletown Alerts:

Get your walking shoes ready for the Middletown 350 Parade and Time Capsule Celebration on Saturday June 21st. Community and school groups, families and located businesses are invited to participate in this very special parade designed to celebrate the township’s founding 350 years ago in 1664.

The parade begins at 11 am at High School North on Tindall Road and ends at the Middletown Arts Center where the Time Capsule Celebration will be held. The free celebration include entertainment, food vendors, family activities and of course burial, of course burial of Middletown time capsule on the Arts Center's grounds. The 50-year time capsule will be surrounded by an "Anniversary Plaza" designed with personalized bricks that are being sold by the Middletown Arts Center and will be installed later this year.

Pre-registration is required to participate in the parade. Participation for community groups, schools, families is free. There is a $50 participation fee for businesses. Online registration begins tomorrow, via our Community Pass website: https://register.communitypass.net/Middletown. For more information or questions, please call 732-615-2260.

Video: Town Hall on Economic Development

A Town Hall on Economic Development was held Monday night at the Middletown Arts Center. One year after being organized, the Middletown Economic Development Committee opened their doors to the public to seek input from the business community. It was sparsely attended, about 30 people were in attendance. A few in attendance were business owners in town. Many of the other attendees came to express concerns on how to make the areas they live in better.

A presentation was given by Township Administrator Tony Mercantante showing various  lots around town that could be better utilized to attract businesses to Middletown but the Town Hall, while geared towards the theme of economic development, seemed to be more of a campaign event designed to highlight Gerry Sharfenberger's business savvy.  Many of the attendees who came out for this event however, came to express concerns on how to make the areas they live in better and what  more could be done to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

The best that Township officials could do though was to explained that they were not in the real estate business and could not force property owners to develop land they owned. They did say though, they could help in keeping properties maintained and safe through code enforcement.and added that they could use the help of the residents to report unsightly properties to the township code enforcement officers so that those properties could be maintained.

Watch the video, it's interesting to say the least.

Summer Concert Series Continues August 8

From Middletown Alerts:


The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) located at 36 Church Street in Middletown will host the Middletown Summer Concert Series continues August 8 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. with the Voo Dudes. The VooDUDES play a unique blend of New Orleans funk, blues, boogie-woogie, honky-tonk, Zydeco, Southern soul and Caribbean party music.

The free concert series is presented annually by the Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council and the Middletown Recreation Department. The public is invited to bring their lawn chairs, blankets and refreshments. Free parking is on-site. Club MAC with Miss Maria will provide activities for the kids including spin art and cotton candy making. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts will be held in the Middletown Arts Center's theater. Call the Middletown Arts Center at 732-706-4100 or visit www.middletownnj.org for more information.

Mtown News Flash 1-18-13

2013 Mayor's Open Office Hours Begin Jan. 19
Mayor Gerard P. Scharfenberger generally holds open office hours the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 am to noon at Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway. Visitors are seen on a first-come basis. Residents can also contact the Mayor's Office at 732-615-2024 during regular business hours or through the township’s website at www.middletownnj.org

As part of Middletown’s annual Organization Day, Committeeman Gerard P. Scharfenberger was selected to serve as Mayor and Committeewoman Stephanie C. Murray as Deputy Mayor for 2013. Read more


Free Seminar: Sandy’s Impact on Your Federal Taxes – Jan 21st
H&R Block will be conducting an informational seminar on Super Storm Sandy and its impact on your federal taxes on Monday, January 21st from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Middletown Arts Center on Church Street next to the Middletown Train Station. The seminar is open to the public and free of charge.

Sandy Recovery
Croydon Hall Relief Center Hours
The main distribution center for the town at the Croydon Hall Gym. Croydon Hall Relief Center (900 Leonardville Road in Middletown) is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am-2pm. Clean-up supplies, non-perishable food items, clothing and personal essentials are being distributed to residents as they recover from Superstorm Sandy. The Center is closed January 21 in observance of Martin Luther King’s Birthday

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/croydonhallreliefcenter

Americorps Is Here to Help
www.facebook.com/AmericorpsReliefMonmouthCounty

Americorps is now stationed at the Croydon Hall Relief Center. If you need assistance with storm clean up, they are available to help. They offer free labor and clean up assistance, gut outs and other tasks related to storm damage. They have individuals who are trained in mold removal, sheetrock installation and spackling. Please contact Americorp directly at 609.508.2500, americorpsmonmothcounty@gmail.com or visit them at Croydon Hall.

Middletown Disaster Relief Fund
The Mayor and Township Committee has established the Middletown Disaster Relief fund to directly assist the hardest hit residents of our Bayshore. Please visit the website for information on how to apply and donate www.middletownrelief.com.


Seasonal Job Opportunities
Applications Accepted Beginning Feb 2
Looking for a fun job this summer? Come work for Middletown Township! The Recreation Department Recreation is looking for enthusiastic and motivated candidates for our Summer Recreation Program. Lifeguarding positions are also available for our beaches – applicants must be a certified lifeguard from an accredited agency. The Public Works Department is seeking candidates to work in Maintenance – Parks, Roads, Buildings and Automotive.

Applications will be accepted beginning Saturday, February 2 from 10 am to 12 pm at the Croydon Hall Senior Center, 900 Leonardville Rd. After that day, return recreation applications to the Recreation Office, 900 Leoanardville Rd, Leonardo and maintenance applications to Public Works, 52 Kanes Lane, Middletown. Download applications from www.middletownnj.org. Go to Forms and Resources then Parks and Recreation to access application


2013 Ski/Snowboard Trips Now Open!
Like to Ski? Interested in learning how to Snowboard? Join the Middletown Township Department of Recreation on a trip to Camelback Mountain Resort (Tannersville, PA).

Trips are open to all Middletown residents, any age! Children under 13 years of age must have a parent/guardian present. Parent/Guardian not required to ski. Helmets are required for anyone under 18 years of age. If you do not own one, you must rent one.

All trips leave from the Town Hall parking lot (1 Kings Highway, Middletown) at 6:00am SHARP. The lifts open at 8:30am. All participants are REQUIRED to check in with a Recreation Department staff member in the CBK Lodge between 12:00pm – 1:00pm. All participants are required to be on the bus ready to leave at 4:00pm SHARP. The expected return time is 6:30pm. Any participant failing to follow these procedures will not be permitted on future trips with the Department of Recreation.

Registration has begun and will be on going until filled. All trips are first come, first served. Sign up for one or both trips. If needed, a waiting list will be generated. Registration can be done via mail or in person at the Croydon Hall Administrative Office, Mon-Fri 9am-3pm. Visit www.middletownnj.org, go Recreation, then special events to download registration form.


Bray Avenue Bridge in Port Monmouth Closed
Monmouth County’s bridge on Bray Avenue over Pews Creek Port Monmouth is closed in the interest of public safety. While only the bridge is closed, traffic between Main Street and Thompson Avenue is being detoured. Bray Avenue will be open to local traffic only. The bridge is closed to vehicle traffic until further notice. Pedestrian access will continue. Detour signs have been posted. Prior to the closure, Monmouth County had been in the process of preparing plans and specification for the replacement of the 60-year old bridge. Read more


Seeking Employers for Youth Job Fair
Middletown's 22nd annual Youth Job Fair will be held Wednesday, April 10th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at High School North, located at 33 Tindall Road. The event. which is organized by Middletown Community Affairs Council, will bring together Middletown youth and employers to explore the possibility of full-time and part time job placement at no cost to the student or employers. Employers interested in participating can contact Mitch Gotesky at 732- 915-2445 or John Giordano at 732-996-7495.


Sandy Recovery Information Tips and FAQs

FEMA Advisory Base Flood Elevations
Superstorm Sandy Information

FEMA Assistance - Register By January 30, 2013
www.disasterassistance.gov/
Find assistance, request assistance and track applications
Survivors of Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey have until January 30, 2013 to register for disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Association.

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)
Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center
945 Highway 36, Leonardo, NJ 07737


RESOLVE TO EXPLORE THE ARTS IN THE NEW YEAR AT THE MAC
Class registration for Winter through Spring 2013 is now open at the Middletown Arts Center (MAC), located on 36 Church Street in Middletown, NJ. The institution is encouraging adults and children of all ages and abilities to make 2013 the year to explore the arts. This past fall left many families with little or no time to spend together, but the Middletown Arts Center invites the public to visit its 23,000 square-foot arts facility for some much needed rest, relaxation and entertainment.

The Middletown Arts Center’s arts programming allows members and non-members to discover their inner artist, musician or dancer and also offers children unique activities to explore their imagination and express themselves. The classes offered for children include Doodle Dude’s cartooning and animation, musical theatre fun, puppetry, fashion design, guitar, dance classes for boys and girls, kiddie rock concerts and music lessons with Miss Sherri and much more. There are also exercise classes available for adults looking to carve out some time to de-stress in the New Year. Classes include Tai Chi, Zumba, Yoga, Hula Hooping, authentic Argentine tango, Irish-step, tap and ballroom dance.

For individuals and families in need of financial assistance due to Sandy, please contact Maggie O’Brien, the Middletown Art Center’s Executive Director, at 732-706-4100 and she will discuss opportunities for discounted programming. MAC members also receive discounts on classes and camps throughout the year.

Join the Middletown Arts Center Team The Middletown Arts Center is currently looking for artists and educators to join its team. Individuals who are interested can contact Maggie O’Brien at 732-706-4100. The MAC is currently looking to expand its programing by offering classes in adult crafts such as jewelry, beading, fiber and photography, as well as children’s classes in film making, animation, advanced art, drawing and arts and crafts.

Visit www.middletownarts.org for more information. The MAC can also be found on Facebook at Middletown Arts Center and Twitter @MiddletownArts.


Save the Date
Jan 30 - FEMA Registration Deadline
Feb 2 – Season Job Applications Accepted
Feb 9 - Ski/Snowboard Trip
Feb 23 - Ski/Snowboard Trip
Feb 23 – Poricy Park Summer Camp Open House – 2-4p
March 23 – Eggstravaganza
Oct 25 - Halloween Hullabaloo
1st & 3rd Saturday Monthly – Mayor’s Office Hours – 10 am to noon, Town Hall.

Mtown Newsflash: Disaster Relief Fund to Distribute Gift Cards to Sandy Victims

The Middletown Disaster Relief Fund, an independent non-profit organization, has received a donation of $100 Target Gift Cards to distribute to residents of North Middletown, Port Monmouth, Belford and Leonardo affected by Superstorm Sandy.

Recipients must pre-registered by noon on Tuesday, January 8th to qualify. Residents registered with the Citizen Communication Center for alerts simply need to log in and join the User Group ‘Sandy Relief’. New registrants can select the User Group ‘Sandy Relief’ as part the registration form.

Gift cards will ONLY be distributed by the Middletown Disaster Relief Fund from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm on Sunday, January 13th at the Middletown Arts Center, located at 36 Church Street next to the train Station. Proof of address will be required. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

Again, you must register by Tuesday, January 8th by noon to qualify. Limit 1 gift card per household. Supplies are limited. For additional information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 732-615-2024.

• Citizen Communications Center Login (Join User Group Sandy Relief)
• Middletown Disaster Relief Fund (501c3 Non-profit organziation)

It's Your Town - Newsletter Volume 4, Issue 2-1/17/12

Here is another edition of the It's Your Town newsletter, it covers the January 17th, 2012 Middletown Township Committee meeting. As readers of the blog know from listening to audio clips posted last week, this meeting was very eventful.

A a late notice stating that the Township will not open the Swim & Tennis Club this year was posted to the Township's website on Friday 13th, heading into the long Martin Luther King 3-day holiday weekend and apparently, from the sentiment of the members present at the meeting, they weren't informed previously of the dire financial situation of the Swim Club, over two dozen people voiced their concerns to the Township Committee.

There were a few Swim Club members who questioned the expenses incurred by the Township on behalf of the Middletown Arts Center (MAC) in relation to those incurred to operate the Swim Club. They were told by Mayor Fiore and Township Attorney Brian Nelson, that the MAC was on the way towards profitability and that the utility expenses were down dramatically to only $30 to $40K per year! Attached to the newsletter are the actual figures for the past five years so you can determine for yourself what is accurate.

Regardless, when the Club closes, all Middletown residents will be responsible for repaying the original bond used to purchase the Club instead of the member fees stated in the Pool Club ordinance.

Read this edition of the newsletter ....Here

And if you would like to listen to the companion audio clips from the meeting, I have them below

Committee comments #1

Committee comments #2

What about the kids?

Tom Wilkens comments



As always, if you wish to subscribe to the newsletter and receive in your inbox send a request to itsourtown@yahoo.com

Mtown News Flash 12-16-11

Rabies Alert
The Middletown Township Animal Control Division has received laboratory confirmation of 2 wild animals testing positive for Rabies.

The first animal, a skunk was in a fight with a dog in the Leonardo section of the Township. In another incident, a Good Samaritan picked up a sick raccoon and brought it to a veterinarian on their own. This raccoon was found on Kings Hwy near Church St.

Luckily, the dog was up to date on its rabies vaccination and only needed a rabies booster and 45-day quarantine. The person who handled the raccoon was not exposed to the animal in the way they transported it.

In light of finding 2 rabid animals in one week, we would like to remind residents about the possibility of wildlife being infected with Rabies. Everyone should make sure that all domestic animals (dogs, cats, and livestock) are currently vaccinated with a Rabies shot. In addition, residents should be aware that they should not be interacting with wildlife. If you come across a sick or injured animal, keep your distance and please contact Animal Control at 732-615-2094 immediately.

Remember, Rabies is a fatal disease. The best course of defense is the vaccination of your pets and not handling wildlife.

Leaf Collection
Fall leaf collection is underway. Get status reports at www.middletownnj.org/collection

Municipal Offices Holiday Schedule
Municipal offices will be closed Monday, December 26 and Monday, January 2, 2012.

Holiday Garbage and Recycling Collection Schedule

There will be no garbage collection Monday December 26, 2011. The next collection for residences with a Monday garbage collection will be Thursday December 29, 2011.

There will be no garbage collection on Monday January 2, 2012. The next collection for residences with a Monday garbage collection will be Thursday January 5, 2012.

There will be no recycling collection on Monday December 26, 2011 and January 2, 2012. Recycling will be scheduled to be collected on the following day.

Recycling Center Open Dec 27, 28 & Jan 3,4
The Kanes Lane Recycling Center will be OPEN on Tuesday & Wednesday December 27, 28 and January 3, 4 to accommodate residents who need to recycle cardboard, mixed paper and other items after the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

The Recycling Center is closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Regular operation hours will resume after January 4th. Hours are Thursday through Monday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Organization Day 2012
The Township Committee will hold Middletown's annual Organization Day meeting at noon on Sunday, January 1, 2012 at Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway.

On the agenda will be the swearing in of the 2012 Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Under the township's form of government, the Township Committee designates two members to serve as mayor and deputy mayor for a one-year term. Committeeman Anthony P. Fiore will accept the oath of office to serve his second consecutive term. Committeewoman Elect Stephanie C. Murray will be sworn in as the newest member of the Township Committee. The term for each Committee member is three years.

Scores of volunteers traditionally attend to accept oaths of office to serve on more than a dozen township boards, committees and commissions. Each group focuses on different aspects of the community and works to enhance Middletown's quality of life. Residents are appointed to these positions by the Township Committee.

For more information call the Township Clerk at (732) 615-2014 or visit www.middletownnj.org

Christmas Tree Collection 2012
Christmas Tree Collection begins January 5, 2012. Click here for schedule. Trees can also be brought to the Kanes Lane Recycling Center, 52, Kanes Lane by Middletown residents only free of charge.

Homestead Rebate Update
The Middletown Tax Collection Office advises property owners that the state Homestead Benefit, for property tax year 2010, is being credited to the February 2012 tax quarter for applicable property owners. Adjusted February 2012 tax bills will be mailed on or before December 30, 2011. Please pay the adjusted amount shown on the bill by 4:00 pm February 10, 2012 to avoid interest charges. All questions regarding the homestead credit should be directed to the state Division of Taxation at 1-888-238-1233.

Vote for the MAC in the 2012 NJ Monthly Best of NJ Poll
Please vote for the Middletown Arts Center under the category of "Recreation & Attractions: Live Theater / Arts Venue". This is the link to cast your vote: http://njmonthly.com/articles/best-of-Jersey/2012-jersey-choice-the-best-of-new-jersey.html. Deadline for voting is January 15, 2012. By winning the poll, the Middletown Arts Center would continue to spread the word statewide about its talented instructors, affordable classes, and free events and programs. It's a true pleasure to represent an organization that educates and entertains thousands of families year-round.