STAFFORD - The New Jersey Department spokesman Steve Schapiro just released the following update to ongoing work on Route 72.
On Friday, Route 72 East was closed from Mill Creek to Morris Boulevard. This is a continuation of work that began on Friday.
There will be overnight lane closures and a detour this week on Route 72 in both directions near Marsha Drive as the Route 72 Manahawkin Bay Bridges project advances in Stafford, Ocean County.
Beginning at 8 p.m.Monday, March 18 until 6 a.m.,Tuesday, March 19, and continuing each night through Thursday, March 21 at the same times, Route 72 is scheduled to be closed and detoured in both directions near Marsha Drive in Stafford for paving work. The following detours will be in place overnight:
Route 72 eastbound detour:
Route 72 westbound detour:
Two lanes of traffic will be maintained during the day with traffic in the new configuration in each direction; one on the left and one lane on the right separated by a center work zone. This stage is expected to take about a month to complete.
Both lanes on Route 72 eastbound will take traffic to Long Beach Island. Route 72 eastbound traffic going to Morris Drive must use the right lane.
Both lanes on Route 72 westbound will take traffic into Manahawkin. Route 72 westbound traffic going to Marsha Drive must use the right lane.
This work is part of Contract 1A & 1B, of the Route 72/Manahawkin Bay Bridge project.
This final construction contract is designed to improve safety and reduce congestion in Stafford at the Marsha Drive/Route 72 intersection and in Ship Bottom on Long Beach Island.
In Stafford, Marsha Drive will be widened to provide double left turn lanes onto Route 72, and a third lane will be added on Route 72 in both directions near the intersection.
In Ship Bottom, approximately 3,000 feet of Route 72 (locally known as 8th and 9th Streets) and three cross streets (Barnegat Avenue, Central Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard) will be widened.
Two-way traffic will be restored along Central Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard.
Five traffic signals will be reconstructed, and a new traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of 8th Street and Long Beach Boulevard.
In addition, a new storm drainage system and new outfalls will be installed in an effort to reduce frequent flooding along Route 72 and these intersections.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. For more information go to the NJDOT project website.
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MANAHAWKIN, NJ - On Monday, March 18th from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Lighthouse Christian Academy will be hosting their Annual Open House.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about Lighthouse Christian Academy.
At this event, you can also register for the 2024-2025 school year while touring the school. In addition, teachers and administrators will be available to answer questions and introduce you to their Christ-centered learning experience.
LCA is currently accepting registrations for students going into Pre-K through 8th Grade based on class size and availability for the 2024-2025 school year.
If you are unable to attend on March 18th, please contact us to schedule a tour this Spring. Call LCA at 609-597-3915 or email info@lca-nj.org.
]]>At approximately 3:00 a.m, a structure fire was reported at 154 Division Street. The Stafford Twp. Fire Department, EMS, and Police responded to the scene and the fire was able to be contained within the garage area.
All occupants and pets were able to safely exit the residence. Preliminary findings suggest the fire started in the garage as a result of a battery malfunction.
The following agencies supported the effort:
STAFFORD - Stafford Township published the following information about an upcoming event.
Mayor Henken and Township Council would like to invite you to the Stafford Township Green Team's Community Wide Clean Up, Saturday, April 20th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at various locations throughout the Township.
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STAFFORD - The NJ Department of Transportation released the following information about the Route 72 Bay Bridge Project on Thursday, March 14.
New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today announced lane closures on Route 72 in both directions near Marsha Drive on Friday night as the Route 72 Manahawkin Bay Bridges project advances in Stafford, Ocean County.
Beginning at 8 p.m. tomorrow, Friday, March 15 until 8 a.m., Saturday, March 16, Route 72 is scheduled to be closed in both directions to restripe the road and install construction barrier to create a center lane work zone in both directions on Route 72 near Marsha Drive in Stafford. In addition, paving work will be done Friday night.
By Saturday morning, traffic in both directions will be split with one lane shifted to the left and one lane on the right with a center work zone. Two lanes of traffic will be maintained during this stage, which will mill and pave this portion of the roadway. This stage is expected to take about a month.
Both lanes on Route 72 eastbound will take traffic to Long Beach Island. Route 72 eastbound traffic going to Morris Drive must use the right lane.
Both lanes on Route 72 westbound will take traffic into Manahawkin. Route 72 westbound traffic going to Marsha Drive must use the right lane.
The following detours will be in place on Friday night, March 15:
Route 72 eastbound detour:
Route 72 westbound detour:
This work is part of the Contract 1A & 1B, of the Route 72/Manahawkin Bay Bridge project. This final construction contract is designed to improve safety and reduce congestion in Stafford at the Marsha Drive/Route 72 intersection and in Ship Bottom on Long Beach Island. In Stafford, Marsha Drive will be widened to provide double left turn lanes onto Route 72, and a third lane will be added on Route 72 in both directions near the intersection.
In Ship Bottom, approximately 3,000 feet of Route 72 (locally known as 8th and 9th Streets) and three cross streets (Barnegat Avenue, Central Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard) will be widened. Two-way traffic will be restored along Central Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard. Five traffic signals will be reconstructed, and a new traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of 8th Street and Long Beach Boulevard. In addition, a new storm drainage system and new outfalls will be installed in an effort to reduce frequent flooding along Route 72 and these intersections. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. For more information go to the NJDOT project website.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information.
For NJDOT news follow us on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT and our Facebook page.
]]>STAFFORD - 2020 Southern Regional High School graduate Karagan Bulger, was recently selected to attend Naval Flight School in Pensacola, FL.
Karagan will be attending upon graduating from the US Coast Guard Academy this May.
Bulger is a 2020 graduate from Southern Regional where she played soccer and ran track. She continued her athletics at the Coast Guard Academy and was also chosen to be on the Battalion Staff last semester.
Congratulations to Karagan and thank you for your service.
]]>OCEAN COUNTY - Get ready people, St. Patrick's Day weekend is upon us.
If looking for great entertainment, you got to be where the Ocean County Emerald Society Pipes and Drums are playing.
The Ocean County Emerald Society Pipes & Drums was founded in 1993 to help spread Irish tradition through bagpipe music. They have humbly performed at many parades, festivals, and memorials throughout the past 31 years.
The band has also proudly performed at the 1999 Millennium St Patrick's Day Parade in Ireland, as well as NFL halftime shows in Giant Stadium. They were the first Irish-based band from the Northeast to play in Savannah, GA, and we have received over a dozen 1st place trophies in various parades.
Here is the list of the bars and restaurants for the weekend.
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STAFFORD - The news has broken from ESPN and other NFL sites that Southern Regional Alum and Stafford Township native Mike Gesicki is ready to sign a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals for $3.25 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Mike is coming off a one-year contract with the New England Patriots with a base value of $4.5 million in March 2023 after having played on the franchise tag the year before for the Miami Dolphins.
Gesicki finished the season in New England with 29 receptions for 244 yards with two touchdowns. He was mostly utilized as a complement to No. 1 tight end Hunter Henry, playing 50% of the offensive snaps.
2023 didn't go the way many of his fans expected as the Patriots finished 4-13 with major struggles at the quarterback position.
Gesicki enters his seventh NFL season in 2024. A second-round pick by the Dolphins in 2018, he has 260 receptions for 2,861 yards and 20 touchdowns in his career.
Some reflections about this signing.
Gesicki is a key addition to the Cincinnati Bengals. This move not only strengthens their offense but also adds a dynamic playmaker to their roster. Let's delve into why Gesicki's arrival in Cincinnati is such a significant development for the team.
Athleticism and Versatility
Mike Gesicki is renowned for his exceptional athleticism and versatility on the field. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 255 pounds, he possesses the ideal physical attributes for a tight end in today's NFL. Gesicki's combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. Whether he's lining up as a traditional tight end, split out wide as a receiver, or even in the slot, Gesicki has the ability to create mismatches all over the field.
Playmaking Ability
One of Gesicki's most impressive qualities is his knack for making big plays. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to come up clutch in critical situations. Whether it's a contested catch in traffic, a leaping grab in the red zone, or a crucial third-down conversion, Gesicki has proven himself as a reliable target for his quarterbacks. His reliable hands and excellent body control allow him to consistently make difficult catches, even in tight coverage.
Red Zone Threat
In addition to his playmaking ability, Mike Gesicki also brings immense value to the Cincinnati Bengals as a red zone threat. His size and athleticism make him a dangerous weapon near the goal line, where he can outmuscle defenders and high-point the football with ease. Gesicki's presence in the red zone adds another dimension to the Bengals' offense, giving quarterback Joe Burrow a reliable target to look for when the team is in scoring position.
Pass-catching Tight End
Gesicki's prowess as a pass-catching tight end. He has the speed to stretch the field vertically, the route-running ability to create separation from defenders, and the hands to consistently haul in receptions. Gesicki's skill set makes him a valuable asset in both the short and intermediate passing game, providing Burrow with a reliable safety valve over the middle of the field.
Zac Taylor's offensive scheme, which emphasizes creativity and versatility. Gesicki's presence on the field will not only benefit Burrow and the passing game, but also open up opportunities for the Bengals' talented group of wide receivers and running backs.
As Gesicki dons the orange and black jersey of the Bengals, fans can look forward to seeing him make a significant impact on the field and help propel the team to greater success in the seasons to come.
]]>STAFFORD - On March 8th, 2024 at approximately 8:09 p.m., the Stafford Township Police Department responded to a report of a structure fire at the Oxycocus Elementary School, located at 250 Route 9 North.
Officers observed flames emerging from a wall-mounted heat pump. The officers attempted to subdue the fire using fire extinguishers.
The Stafford Township Fire Department, and other surrounding fire departments responded to the scene and were able to successfully extinguish the fire. There are no reported injuries.
Preliminary findings from the investigation conducted by the Stafford Township Fire Inspector and Stafford Township Detective Bureau, suggest the cause of the fire was a faulty wall-mounted heat pump.
However, this agency and the Stafford Township Fire Department will continue to thoroughly investigate the cause of the incident. The incident was originally reported to the police department by the school's alarm company.
]]>TRENTON - Following Governor Phil Murphy’s recent state budget address, Senator Carmen Amato Jr, Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Greg Myhre want their constituents to know that delivering tax relief and ending wasteful spending will be their top priorities during the State Budget process.
The 9th District Delegation’s commitment to fiscal integrity is consistent with their committee assignments. Senator Amato serves on the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee while Assemblyman Rumpf serves on the Assembly Budget Committee and Assemblyman Myhre serves on the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
Amato, Rumpf and Myhre issued the following statement as part of the Delegation’s ongoing constituent outreach efforts:
“Taxpayers we represent are worried about their financial security, especially when faced with the prospect of toll increases, utility rate hikes and learning that their local school district will be hard hit by chronic funding cuts by the state’s rigged school funding formula.
“Justifiably, they want Trenton’s focus to be on alleviating the state’s crushing tax burden, not finding new and creative ways to increase fees or impose taxes on businesses that will ultimately be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.
“Soaring rhetoric from the Murphy Administration does not change the standing reality that the proposed state budget does not adequately address the cost-of-living increases that so many taxpayers are alarmed about, especially seniors who have earned the right to retire without being taxed out of their homes.
“Now more than ever, it’s plain to see that taxpayers desperately want a more pragmatic approach to reform the state’s finances that include a $5 billion deficit between the current state budget and the proposed for next year. They have the expectation of fairness, in which placating special interests or providing benefits to persons in the country illegally do not come into play.”
The Delegation highlighted that the governor’s proposed budget includes several fee increases, including fees charged by the Bureau of Securities, firearm permit and license fees, and raises the HMO assessment from 5 percent to 6 percent. Making matters worse, the proposed budget fails to shield taxpayers from income tax increases from bracket creep, payroll tax hikes for unemployment, disability and family leave, gas tax increases, tolls, registration fees or property tax increases that could result from a $334 million reduction in municipal aid.
]]>BOSTON, MA - Southern Regional High School freshman Aaron Wyrsch is an up-and-coming running talent.
His abilities earned him an invitation to the prestigious New Balance Nationals event in Boston.
Wyrsch set a personal record in the mile competition with a time of 4:31.70. He has cut his time by 11 seconds since his last competition. He competed in the Boys Freshman Mile Competition.
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NEW YORK CITY - The Nike Indoor Nationals was held at the Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory, Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY, USA, this weekend, Friday, March 8 to Sunday, March 10, 2024.
One of our local athletes excelled in this prestigious national tournament.
Southern Regional High School junior Cole Cramer is a tremendous runner. He also plays football for the Southern Regional Rams in the fall. Cramer has a promising future ahead of him.
The winter and spring seasons bring out his best as an athlete.
This weekend he competed against the best runners in the country.
Cole took third place in the 60-meter championships and took fifth place in the 200-meter championships.
Congratulations to local athlete Cole Cramer.
You can access more information about these prestigious races at https://results.armorytrack.com/meets/26734
60-Meter Championship Results
200 Meter Championship Results
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BEACH HAVEN - The First Annual Reynolds Foundation Bunny Hop 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will take place on March 30, 2024 at Veterans Bicentennial Park in Beach Haven.
All of the proceeds will be donated to local food initiatives.
The Reynolds Family Foundation Inc is rooted in the community and focused on encouraging and funding practical and caring solutions to local concerns.
RFF is a charitable foundation (501c3 pending) formed by community volunteers to address local practical concerns through philanthropic endeavors. We focus on local health and welfare needs, emergency needs, homelessness and scholarships while being open to help with other community concerns in our area. We plan to be engaged in a variety of local activities in order to assist, unify, educate, and support other like minded organizations and groups.
Check out the Reynolds Family Foundation by clicking web link below.
]]>STAFFORD - Stafford Township Police Chief Thomas Dellane recently retired. Chief Dellane was honored for his over 36 years of dedicated service to the Township of Stafford.
Mayor Robert Henken presented him with an award of appreciation.
Stafford Township leadership submitted the following release about Chief Dellane:
During his tenure as Chief of Police and throughout his career. Chief Thomas Dellane has consistently implemented innovative and effective Departmental policies, while working together with other Township Departments as well as outside agencies, to ensure the safety of the Township and its residents.
Chief Thomas Dellane’s dedication to the Stafford Township Police Department and the residents of the Township of Stafford is unparalleled, and his desire to constantly improve the services his department provides will be incredibly missed by all Township employees and community members alike.
Congratulations Chief Dellane!
After over 36 years of dedicated service, Chief Thomas Dellane signs off for the very last time.
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BRANT BEACH - On Monday, March 4, Kelley Lutz was sworn in as Patrolman with the Long Beach Township Police Department.
Kelley is a graduate of Pinelands High School. He started his career with the Long Beach Township Police Department as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class 1 in 2019. That same year, he was sent to the Ocean County Police Academy.
From 2020 to 2024, Lutz was assigned as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class 2.
During that time, he continued his college education at Stockton University. He graduated in 2022, with a B.A. in Criminal Justice.
Due to his hard work and dedication to the community, Kelley was hired as a full-time officer and assigned to the patrol division.
Kelley’s brother, Ocean City Police officer Ryan Lutz, assisted with swearing him in.
]]>STAFFORD - Southern Regional High School Director of Athletics Chuck Donohue Jr. released the following information:
Congratulations, Southern Regional Boys Indoor Track Cole Cramer, on placing 2nd at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions at Ocean Breeze in Staten Island, NY. Cole placed 2nd in both the 55m and 200m events.
In the 3200m: Santino D'Amelio placed 13th and Aaron Wyrsch 20th,. In the Shot Put, Matt Nolan placed 20th. Well done, Rams!
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STAFFORD - Southern Regional High School Director of Athletics Chuck Donohue Jr. released the following information:
Congratulations to Southern Regional senior Jess Bruther on her commitment to continue her education and field hockey career at The College of New Jersey.
Jess is pictured below with her parents and coaches, Jenna Lombardo and Denise Newill.
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