Category: Independent News

  • Deadline extended for Aberdeen developments

    Changes in COAH could affect applications BY JACQUELINE HLAVENKA Staff Writer ABERDEEN — The Aberdeen Zoning Board passed a motion to extend the deadline for two applications from RCM Developers LLC on Feb. 25. Based on a recommendation from the township, the developer requested an extension to continue negotiations with the governing body about its…

  • Matawan appoints police commission

    Police department will report to new commission BY JACQUELINE HLAVENKA Staff Writer MATAWAN — The Borough Council unanimously passed an ordinance Feb. 2 creating a commission that will have oversight of the Matawan Police Department. The ordinance, which amends the code of the Matawan Police Department, states the department will be under direct control of…

  • Slocum murder trial topic of March 8 meeting

    SHREWSBURY — Questions persist about an infamous murder that occurred in what is now West Long Branch in 1863. Peter Slocum, descendant of a prominent Monmouth County family, was found guilty of the murder of his wife and was hanged, but debate about his guilt continues today. On Monday, March 8, the Shrewsbury Towne-Monmouth Chapter…

  • Laura’s Journeys funds travel for cancer patients

    Program founded in memory of Laura Parness ABERDEEN — Cancer patients are globetrotting, thanks to a philanthropic program that promotes therapeutic recreational travel for patients undergoing treatment. Laura’s Journeys was created by Aberdeen resident Bill Parness in memory of his wife, Laura Parness, who passed away at the age of 54 after a battle with…

  • 180 seeks volunteers for victim advocacy

    Beginning in April, 180 Turning Lives Around, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual violence, will be conducting a training course for domestic violence response team (DVRT) volunteers. Applications are currently being accepted for the program, and interviews will begin shortly. The volunteer advocates with 180’s DVRT program are civilian members…

  • Meridian Health named great place to work

    RED BANK — Meridian Health, the county’s largest employer, has been recognized as one of the best companies to work for in the nation. The health care provider based in Wall Township can now be counted among the corporate elite, ranking 79th on Fortune magazine’s 13th annual “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. Meridian…

  • NOTESAround Town

    North Centerville Volunteer Fire Company, Middle Road, Hazlet, will hold a St. Patrick’s Day Party at 7 p.m. March 6. The cost is $30, which includes Irish music, drinks and food. For tickets, call 732-264- 9404, ext. 6. ***** The Matawan-Aberdeen Educational Foundation, Cliffwood PTO and Ravine Drive PTO are co-sponsoring Family Fun Night II,…

  • First Assistant Chief Andrew Spears

    First Assistant Chief Andrew Spears was sworn in to the ranks of the Middletown Township Fire Department by Mayor Gerald Scharfenberger on Feb 15. In attendance were department officials (l-r) 3rd Assistant Chief Peter Laimann, 2nd Assistant Chief John D’Altilio Sr., Spears, Deputy Chief Michael Chenoweth and Chief of the Department John Isaksen. A standing-room-only…

  • Celebrating a natural local treasure

    BY MARIE MABER Correspondent ‘Local Treasures: Images of Sandy Hook” at the Center for the Visual Arts gallery celebrates Brookdale Community College’s new painting classes offered at Sandy Hook. “Late Afternoon, Sandy Hook” by Sid Godwin The exhibition includes recent “Hook” paintings by Brookdale faculty and students. In addition, local artist — and local treasure…