5-26 MP by Community News Service

Grid upgrade opposed

Concerns grow over JCP&L plan to upgrade highvoltage lines in

By Jane Meggitt

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A proposed high-voltage transmission line upgrade in Millstone Township is drawing concern from residents who say the project could significantly alter the landscape, environment and character of their community.

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The project, known as the “East Windsor-Smithburg 500kV Upgrade,” would replace aging transmission infrastructure with higher-capacity lines along a roughly 9-mile corridor through Millstone and neighboring communities. The proposal by Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) includes taller structures, expanded capacity and work within an existing utility easement.

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See JCP&L, Page 8

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Sisters Margaret (left) and Clare Bergin of Allentown holding dinosaur eggs at the Lego Madness booth on Sunday during the annual Allentown Spring Stroll. Area visitors turned out in force to brave the cooler-than-usual weather on Sunday, April 26, 2026 to attend the annual Allentown Spring Stroll. The event, which was postponed for a day due to inclement weather, featured local businesses, crafters and artisans lining Main Street, along with food trucks, live music, a beer and wine garden, and familyfriendly activities throughout the day. For more photos, see page 14. (Photo by Suzette J. Lucas.)

Former first aid building to become Buddhist meditation center

By R. H. Schmitt Jr.

The quiet hum of meditation will soon replace the sound of emergency sirens in a former first aid building in Allentown.

A group of Buddhist monks is preparing to open the Wisdom and Meditation Center of Mahamevnawa (WMC) in the former Allentown First Aid building, creating a new space for teaching, reflection and community outreach.

The center is part of the Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery network, a Sri Lanka-based organization founded in 1999 that now operates dozens of branches worldwide.

The New Jersey branch has been operating for years and has been seeking a permanent home open to the public.

Local officials say the project reflects the community’s openness to new traditions and uses for existing spaces.

“The Allentown & Upper Free-

See WMC, Page 11

Bringing the Messenger-Press back home

Dear Allentown, Upper Freehold and Millstone residents and business owners,

I am pleased to share an exciting new chapter for our local media landscape and our community.

For more than 20 years, I have dedicated my life to serving our local communities—connecting residents with one another and helping local businesses share their products and services with neighbors and visitors alike.

Following the acquisition of Community News Service LLC by LTD Media, and suggesting that we bring back the Messenger-Press, we have been presented with an incredible opportunity. I have officially relocated our staff to our new office at 24 South Main Street, situated above Perennial Homes in the former home of The Messenger-Press.

With this move, I am thrilled to announce the relaunch of The Messenger-Press. We will direct mail within a few days before or after the 1st of each month to every residential home

in Allentown, Upper Freehold, Cream Ridge and a large portion of Millstone. We will also bulk distribute to our local businesses for visitors to pick up while shopping. We have reimagined the format to be more affordable for local businesses while focusing our delivery specifically on the Upper Freehold Regional School District service area.

There is a palpable sense of excitement among residents and business owners, as this publication provides a dedicated space to share information directly from our school districts, highlight our vibrant business community, and feature stories about the people who make our towns special.

Serving as both the Associate Publisher of Community News Service and the Mayor of Allentown Borough, I recognize my unique position. My primary goal for all our publications is to maintain a neutral, balanced, and equal platform for local news. We are committed to eliminating political slant and creating a level playing field for all voices.

Thomas Fritts

In this spirit, I look forward to providing a monthly mayoral column and will be extending this same invitation to the leadership of Upper Freehold and Millstone. As we grow beyond our inaugural issue, we will

refine a format that offers fair and rotating coverage for all participating communities.

At its heart, Community News Service focuses on “good news” and hyper-local content. We aim to provide a refreshing reprieve from the negative headlines often found elsewhere by celebrating the successes and connections within our own backyard.

My door is always open, and I am in the office every day. I encourage you to reach out and share your ideas, press releases, and stories with our Editor, Bill Sanservino.

If you represent a small business or local organization, please let us know who you are and what you are passionate about.

I want to personally thank every resident and business owner who has been so incredibly supportive during this launch. I look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen our community.

Thomas Fritts Fritts is the associate publisher for The Messenger-Press. 609.516.2224

Thunder contest winner

Seventh grader Brady Knox, a resident of Upper Freehold who plays baseball for Stonebridge Middle School, won a four-pack of tickets to 10 Trenton Thunder games at the Allentown Spring Stroll on Sunday, April 26. The contest was run by The Messenger-Press.

sets out to make our town a closer place by giving readers a reliable source to turn to when they want to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.

EDITOR

Bill Sanservino

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jane Meggitt, R.H. Schmitt, Jr.

AD LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION

Stacey Micallef

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jennifer Steﬀen

News: news@communitynews.org

Events: events@communitynews.org

Letters: bsanservino@donnelly.media

Website: themessenger-press.com

a proud member of:

Community News Service

24 S. Main St., Suite 2 allentown NJ 08501

Phone: (609) 396-1511

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Thomas Fritts

MANAGING EDITOR, METRO DIVISION

Sara Hastings

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Stacey Micallef

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL INITIATIVES

Joe Emanski

© copyright 2026 LtD media. All rights reserved. nothing herein may be reproduced in whole or part without written permission of the publisher. 6,000 copies of The Messenger-Press are mailed or bulk-distributed to the residences and businesses of allentown, Millstone, and Upper Freehold 12 times a year.

TO ADVERTISE call (609) 396-1511, Ext. 110 or e-mail advertise@communitynews.org

What Lagree Is, Why It Works, and Why I Knew I Needed to Open a Studio

By Abby Payson, owner of Pulse

If you have driven past Pulse and wondered what is happening inside, the short answer is Lagree. The longer answer is the most efficient strength workout most people have never tried.

Lagree was developed by trainer Sebastian Lagree. It builds on the principles of Pilates but uses a different machine, called the Miniformer, and a different set of rules. Where Pilates focuses on alignment and mobility, Lagree adds heavier resistance, slower pacing, and a steady stream of full body work. The result is a single 45 minute class that combines strength, core, balance, and cardio.

Here is how a class works. You step onto a Miniformer, which is a spring based machine. The springs create resistance, and the slow tempo keeps your muscles engaged the entire time. There is no jumping, no bouncing, and no impact on your joints. An instructor guides you through a sequence that targets every major muscle group in one session.

What makes Lagree different is the pace. Most workouts ask you to move quickly. Lagree asks you to

move slowly, hold positions longer, and breathe through the burn. That slow tempo is what creates the strength benefit. Studies on time under tension, the amount of time a muscle is actively working in a movement, show that longer, controlled effort builds lean muscle and stability faster than fast, repetitive movement.

The benefits stack up quickly. Lagree builds long, lean strength while protecting your knees, hips, and lower back. It improves posture and core stability, which translates to fewer aches in everyday life. It elevates your heart rate steadily, so you get a meaningful cardio effect without high impact. Because the springs adjust, the workout meets you where you are, whether you are a former athlete or returning to fitness for the first time in years. It is gentle enough to do four or five days a week, and effective enough that most people see results in a month. It is also surprisingly accessible. You do not need to be flexible. You do not need to be in shape. You just need to show up. New clients are walked through every move before class begins, and modifications are built in for every level.

I opened Pulse because I believe everyone deserves time for themselves.

As a mom of two young kids, I wanted a place where busy people could get a real, full body workout in under an hour and feel better walking out than they did walking in. I also wanted my kids to grow up watching their mom build something useful, rather than wait for someone else to build it.

Pulse is a small, locally owned studio. We know your name. We program our classes carefully. We teach beginners with patience and challenge experienced clients without asking them to leave their joints behind. Whether you are managing a long commute, recovering from an injury, balancing a busy household, or simply curious about what all the fuss is about, there is a spot for you here at Pulse.

If you have been thinking about trying Lagree, consider this your invitation. Slow movement, full body, real results. That is the whole idea behind Pulse, and we would love to introduce you to it.

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Abby Payson is the owner of Pulse, a Lagree studio in town, and a mom of two kids under 8.

ture height. Public hearings have drawn strong turnout, with residents raising concerns about tree removal, environmental impacts, property values and the long-term purpose of the project.

The project attracted a full house at the March 25 meeting, and the board is scheduled to again hear the plan on May 27.

Residents have questioned how the project could affect local ecosystems and whether the expanded infrastructure is tied to broader regional energy demand.

The debate reflects a broader tension between infrastructure modernization and community impact, as residents weigh the need for reliable power against concerns about environmental change and quality of life.

Through its New Jersey Clean Energy Corridor (NJCEC) projects, JCP&L is helping “modernize New Jersey’s energy grid by upgrading existing high voltage transmission infrastructure and enabling the state to handle the growing demand for electricity now and for years to come,” according to company materials.

The project is part of a group of transmission upgrades awarded through a competitive solicitation process overseen by the New Jersey Board of Public

Windsor-Smithburg 230-kV single circuit transmission line to a double-circuit configuration to accommodate new 500-kV and 230-kV circuits. The existing right of way is approximately 9 miles in length with a typical easement width of 180 feet and is located in the townships of East Windsor, Millstone and Freehold and in the borough of Roosevelt.

JCP& says the projects will not require any new construction on undeveloped land outside of the utility’s owned property or existing right of way. The line construction is due to start in November, with a projected completion and service date of November 2028.

JCP&L officials say the design of the project relies on existing transmission corridors to minimize disruption to surrounding communities, part of a broader effort that will utilize approximately 40 miles of existing rights-of-way across multiple NJCEC projects.

The project requires zoning board approval for use and height variances. In Millstone, it spans 81 lots along more than 6 miles of an existing transmission corridor across multiple zoning districts. Utilities are not permitted in the Highway Commercial (HC) zone and are conditionally permitted in R-80, RU P, R-130, and R-170 zones.

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JCP&L is upgrading the existing East

Utilities, in coordination with regional grid operator PJM Interconnection. The broader NJCEC initiative includes multiple projects designed to strengthen the state’s electric grid and accommodate future energy demand, including the integration of renewable energy sources.

JCP&L proposes replacing existing

Trees in the right-of-way marked for removal. (Photo by Jane Meggitt).

lattice towers with new steel monopoles on concrete foundations. The project has been modified so it now consists of 39 new structures comprising 44 steel monopoles, rather than the originally proposed 41 structures and 47 monopoles.

All work would occur within JCP&L’s existing utility easement, which is 180’ wide, with variations. However, portions of the existing corridor are currently wooded and will need clearing to allow for full use of the existing easement rights. Structure heights for the new monopoles will vary, ranging from approximately 62- to 197-feet-tall.

The project also includes expansion work at existing substations in East Windsor and Smithburg, which will be upgraded within their current footprints to support the enhanced transmission capacity.

At the Jan. 28 Zoning Board meeting, Lawrence Horzempa, FirstEnergy’s general manager of planning for JCP&L’s parent company, told the board that the current lines are at “end of their useful life,” having been installed about 60 years ago.

Lisa Post, whose farm abuts the power lines, said the trees closest to the current right of way are mature native trees supporting numerous species of wildlife.

“It’s going to be a hit to already marginalized populations,” she said. “So much for ‘green energy.’”

A JCP&L letter regarding the project states that the trees marked are “unhealthy, leaning or significantly encroaching.”

But Post says she believes JCP&L is widening the corridor so it can replace the current towers with much larger ones.

“Anything in their way is going, end of story. Saying that they’re removing sick/ damaged trees is just a justification,” she said.

environment by contaminating soil and water, reduce biodiversity, and harms non-target organisms,” Post says. “While designed for weed control, they persist in ecosystems, causing declines in pollinators, microorganisms, and aquatic life, often resulting in weed resistance and long-term ecosystem degradation”

She adds that there is a pond with reptiles, amphibians and fish in it adjacent to the area. “People fish in that pond. I assume they eat what they catch. I think it’s a big fat mess.”

At the March 25 Zoning Board meeting, it was stated that 2,060 trees in the easement are scheduled for removal.

However, a Jan. 12, 2026, letter signed by Shari M. Spero of CME Associates, the Zoning Board’s shade tree expert, states, “The Applicant has submitted the required tree removal information in accordance with Section 35-11-25.5.

A total of three-thousand four hundred sixty-two (3462) trees were noted to be removed throughout the utility corridor, including thirty-seven (37) heritage sized trees in varying health conditions.”

From July to Sept., 2024, DuBois and Associates, LLC and SaveATree Consulting Group located, measured, and identified all trees 4 inches or greater within the specified tree removal area along the project corridor.

A Millstone Township Environmental Commission review dated Nov. 20, 2025, states, “The overall construction effort is expected to continue over an extended period, and the project should include routine environmental monitoring

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According to project materials, trees identified for removal typically include those that are dead, diseased, structurally compromised or at risk of falling into transmission lines, as well as those that could interfere with the safe operation of the upgraded system.

The company may also seek “priority tree rights” from adjacent property owners to address vegetation outside the immediate right-of-way that could pose a risk to the lines.

Post says he is also disturbed that the letter states that JCP&L will be spraying herbicides to keep their corridor open.

The letter states that “herbicide use on right of ways can create optimum plant and wildlife habitat” with no effect on adjacent or nearby properties.

Herbicides “significantly impact the

be monitored throughout the project life.

JCP&L has said that environmental, geotechnical and land surveys are being conducted as part of the engineering process, and that the company is working with local and state agencies to identify structure locations, access roads and staging areas with the goal of minimizing environmental impacts where possible.

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At the March 25 Zoning Board meeting, residents had many questions and concerns for the JCP&L representatives.

Charles Lenner asked about the project’s economic impact. He said he did a “quick search,” and that neighboring properties could face a devaluation hit between 3 and 15 percent. He noted a greater risk of childhood leukemia connection in children living close to high voltage power lines.

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Lenner also raised concerns about the visual impact of the towers and said such development changes natural land into an urban place.

“It’s a dilemma,” he said. “The irony is we do not get any benefit. It goes through us, like a highway for North Jersey.”

Debbie Demille (a licensed driller) said, “The closer you are to the towers, the more you will lose [home] value.”

She estimated a devaluation of 5 -20%, and said that in going from 230 to 500 kV, there would be significant noise on monopoles.

JCP&L’s engineer said there will be a sound increase, and that while he did not do noise studies, an analysis was performed.

In the January meeting, Horzempa said that benefits of the project include: rebuilding transmission lines delivering directly to Millstone Township and surrounding areas; providing more reliable power; additional capacity; and providing additional transmission capacity and support to the surrounding area.

He made no specific mention of AI data centers, but the topic is an area of concern to many residents.

towns will likely approve data centers, and the current JCP&L infrastructure cannot support the necessary electricity requirements. She said that, nationwide, data centers are somehow approved against massive resident opposition.

“Gov. (Phil) Murphy approved utility rate hikes so that the residents will foot the bill for the higher voltage wires and towers needed to supply the data centers, that are not even in our town, and we did not approve,” Rickman Davis said. “The developers get a tax incentive to build the data center there. Surrounding towns are negatively impacted by the massive towers, trees lost, and home values decrease. Everyone’s electric bills go up.”

She stated that the data centers themselves come with significant negative impact to the surrounding area that cannot be contained within municipal boundaries—yet neighboring towns have no say in the approval process.

“We get higher bills and lower property values, potentially some of the noise, air, and water pollution from the data centers in other towns. And we will still have regular power outages in Millstone Township.”

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Although JCP&L has not identified specific projects driving the upgrade, utilities have cited growing electricity demand — including from data centers and emerging technologies — as part of long-term infrastructure planning.

Diane Rickman Davis said that some

She doubts anything can be done about it because JCPL has the right of way.

“If there could be a moratorium on the data centers and common sense prevailed, maybe they could stop adding the high voltage wires that are strictly being installed to support data centers,” she said.

JCP&L continued from Page 9

One of the current lattice towers due for replacement in Millstone by Jersey Central Power & Light . (Photo by Jane Meggitt).

hold Communities welcome all faiths, especially those that focus on peace and kindness to others,” Allentown Borough Administrator and Clerk Laurie A. Roth said. “I am looking forward to see what positivity the W.M.C. Temple will bring to our community.”

Although he’s a long way from his original home in Sri Lanka, the Venerable Bhante Revatha, a longtime Buddhist monk, and his two fellow monks, Bhante Pavihcka and Bhante Bodhi, are looking forward to establishing their center in the former Allentown First Aid building.

“Bhante” is simply a term of reverence, like pastor or reverend, and is an earned title that requires many years of study, meditation and service to others. The pronunciation of Mahamevnawa is “Maha-mev-nawa.”

The Venerable Bhante Revatha explained that within Buddhism there are three main traditions practiced by those who seek clarity of mind, discipline and humility.

Theravada, “the Sri Lanka path,” or “the Ancient School,” is the tradition that will be practiced at the WMC in Upper Freehold. It emphasizes meditation, monastic discipline and individual spiritual liberation. Mahayana focuses on compassion and the goal of helping others achieve enlighten-

ment, while Vajrayana incorporates specialized techniques intended to accelerate spiritual understanding.

In Theravada, Bhante Revatha said, practitioners adhere closely to the original teachings of the Buddha. The goal is to become an arhat, or enlightened being, a process that requires years of disciplined training and reflection.

“When I was younger, I was interested in computer engineering, programming and web design,” Bhante Revatha said. “But I felt a stronger calling to seek the monastic Buddhist life and so, when I was about 22, I began my journey in the practice of Theravada.”

Since coming to the United States in 2021, Bhante Revatha has led several monastic Buddhist temples and meditation centers, including locations in Georgia and several in Central New Jersey. The order of monks sold their previous center in South Brunswick to help fund the move to Upper Freehold.

teaching and living.”

He said renovations for the living quarters will be supported by members of the existing WMC community.

The monks had initially hoped to move in, establish the temple and begin offering public sessions by June, but that timeline has since shifted. They now expect to welcome visitors sometime in late summer.

Once open, WMC will offer meditation sessions on the last Saturday of each month for “anyone seeking peace, better clarity of mind, improved patience, and to lower stress and anxiety.”

In addition to those monthly sessions, the group provides online classes, in-person instruction and daylong retreats designed for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

Programs at the center are typically offered free of charge and supported through donations from members of the community.

of reflection, with the goal of overcoming the cycle of samsara — often described as patterns of self-centered and undisciplined thinking that can lead to frustration, anger and suffering.

“One of the goals of meditation — beyond finding serenity and calm — is coming to understand the importance of impermanence,” Bhante Revatha said. “You see, everything is subject to change. Change is infinite. Working to understand and accept the infinite helps us to better appreciate the beauty and nature of life.”

Visitors will be welcome to come to the center to ask questions about Buddhism and the practice of meditation, although mornings are typically reserved for quiet reflection.

Organizers say the center is open to people of all backgrounds, with programs for adults and children and instruction often offered in English and Sinhala.

The group also uses digital platforms to extend its reach, offering virtual classes and guided sessions in addition to in-person programming.

“We really love the location of the building in Upper Freehold, just a short walk into the village of Allentown,” Bhante Revatha said. “But there is much to do to make it into a suitable space for practice,

The monks do not receive salaries and rely on community members to provide meals and other necessities.

Bhante Revatha said that much of their daily routine centers on extended periods

The head of WMC’s order said there are no plans to offer yoga or similar physical exercise classes at the temple, emphasizing its focus on traditional Buddhist practice.

For more information on the WMC of Mahamevnawa, visit mahamevnawanj.org.

Bhante Revatha

Continuing a legacy spanning more than 100 years

Looking at the past — and future — of local jorunalism in the area

By Bill Sanservino

The Messenger-Press is back.

For Allentown, Upper Freehold and Millstone, the name is a shared record of community life spanning more than a century.

The story of local journalism in the three communities begins in the late 1800s, when several short-lived newspapers appeared in Allentown, including the Allentown Industry in 1880, the Allentown Times in 1881, and the Herald in 1883.

Those early publications are documented in records compiled by the New Jersey State Library, which maintains historical indexes of newspapers published throughout the state.

That lasting voice arrived in 1903 with the founding of the Allentown Messenger, also documented in state library records and preserved through archival collections.

For nearly 70 years, the Messenger served as the primary newspaper for Allentown and, by extension, Upper Freehold Township.

Based in Allentown, the paper covered local government, schools, churches, farms and the day-to-day lives of residents throughout the township.

The paper’s early leadership included founder John W. Naylor, who established the Messenger in 1903.

It later passed to Ellis Hull, who served as owner and editor and guided the publication through much of the mid-20th century.

In its later years, the paper was owned and edited by Robert Halle, with Joan Halle also associated with ownership, continuing the tradition of local, independent stewardship.

That model — one paper serving both a borough and the surrounding rural township — was typical of the time. Upper Freehold did not develop its own standalone newspaper, but it was continuously covered through the Allentown-based publication.

The same was true for nearby Millstone Township, which, like Upper Free-

hold, did not sustain a long-running newspaper of its own and relied on coverage from neighboring communities.

In 1972, the Allentown Messenger entered a new era, becoming the Messenger-Press, as reflected in listings maintained by the New Jersey State Library and other newspaper directories.

The addition of a name like “Press” often suggests that a newspaper may have combined with another publication or absorbed a competitor.

However, based on available records, there is no clear evidence that such a merger took place in this case. Instead, the change appears to reflect a rebranding or modernization of the existing paper rather than the combination of two separate publications.

At one point, the Messenger-Press was part of the Princeton Packet group, which expanded across Central New Jersey under publisher James Kilgore, acquiring and operating a number of community newspapers during its period of growth.

The exact timing and details of that ownership are not fully documented in readily available records, but the connec-

tion reflects the broader consolidation trends that affected many local papers in the late 20th century.

For decades, the Messenger-Press continued that role, publishing week after week and documenting the growth and changes across Allentown, Upper Freehold and Millstone. Like many independent weekly newspapers, it remained closely tied to the community it served, even as ownership structures evolved over time.

That run came to an end around 2008, according to archival listings and newspaper databases, as shifting economics and changes in how people consume news led to the paper’s closure.

During the 2010s a short-lived paper called The Examiner covered the area for a time, but that closed shop during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The absence of a commmunity paper left a gap.

Not just in news coverage, but in the shared sense of connection that comes from seeing your town, your neighbors and your institutions reflected in print.

That is what makes this moment meaningful.

Reading through the pages of the old Messenger and Messenger-Press is like stepping into a time machine.

Each issue offers a snapshot of life as it was lived—what people saw, what they worried about, how they worked, and how they understood their world.

From quiet walks through the countryside to the impact of war overseas, the papers captured moments both ordinary and extraordinary, preserving them in real time.

That is part of what made those papers so valuable—and why their return matters today.

A 1904 article, “The Earliest Settlers in Allentown,” described the town’s beginnings:

“Around Nathan Allen’s mill there were soon clustered a store, tavern, blacksmith shop and other kinds of business.”

Another 1904 article brought Revolutionary history to life:

“The soldiers cut down big trees… and so the bridge went up, and the troops crossed over.”

A 1912 article, “A Patriotic Pastor,” described Rev. David Jones as “exceedingly patriotic,” noting that his outspoken support for the American cause during the Revolution made him a target of Loyalists and forced him to leave Imlaystown for his safety.

A 1917 article, “The War Brought Home,” reported on the impact of global

“A torpedo… killed outright two men… [the men endured] five days in the open boats… with a scarcity of water.”

A 1938 Messenger series, “Robbins Family History,” reflected on how the region changed over time:

“The crooked path became a crude road traveled by white men with oxen and carts… and now hundreds of motor cars glide swiftly over it.”

The same series also documented the Underground Railroad:

“The family made their house a ‘station’… where the runaway negroes could be in hiding during the day time, and at night could be forwarded to the next station.”

A 1908 article, “A Walk to Allentown,” captured the enduring character of the town:

“Soon we had passed the great Roebling works and the gloomy old prison walls… we were free of the city’s throngs, reveling in the fresh air of the country and the quiet stillness… In a few moments we are in the town, quiet and serene, away from the whirring trolleys and roaring railroads.”

These were not just stories. They were moments captured as they happened— snapshots of daily life, records of change, and firsthand accounts of events both large and small.

Together, they formed the first draft of a community’s history, preserving not only what happened, but what it felt like to live here at a given time.

That is why local newspapers are so important—and why their disappearance from the local landscape is so significant. Without them, what does the future look like? How will people know what happened here, or understand the lives and experiences of those who came before them?

It’s for this reason the MessengerPress is starting again. Its return is not simply about reviving a familiar name, but about restoring a local platform dedicated to documenting these communities

Messenger-Press owner and editor Ellis Hull, Bessie Naylor, William Mannering and staff pose beside the printing press in the basement of the paper’s Main Street location Allentown. The paper relaunched this month on the top floor of the same building.

in real time, just as it did for generations. In a fitting connection to its past, the paper’s new office is located on Main Street, in the same space where earlier editions of the Messenger and Messenger-Press were once printed and published.

Looking ahead, the goal is not only to report the news, but to strengthen the connection between readers and their local institutions, with plans to include periodic columns from local officials, including the mayors of Allentown, Upper Freehold and Millstone, as well as the superintendent of the Upper Freehold Regional School District.

• Surgery/ Post Op Recovery

• Concussion • Hips • Knees

The paper also hopes to feature a regular column focused on area history, potentially written by a local resident, continuing the tradition of documenting the community’s past.

• Running Assessment and Injuries

• ITB Pain

• Core Strengthening

• Balance/ Stability Training

• Shoulder Stability Training

• Throwing Injury Prevention • Ankle • All Re-injury Prevention • All Injury Prevention

But the paper’s future will also depend on its readers. Residents are encouraged to help shape the next chapter by sharing story ideas about interesting people,

organizations, businesses and community efforts, and by submitting letters that reflect the full range of voices across the community. Please send your tips to news@donnelly.media.

Readers can also follow ongoing coverage on our website at TheMessengerPress.com and on social media, where stories and updates will continue to be shared throughout the week.

The tools may have changed, but the mission has not.

At the same time, the way people receive and share news has changed dramatically. Where the Messenger once arrived once a week in print, today’s readers expect updates throughout the week, across both print and digital platforms.

The goal moving forward is to meet readers where they are — while maintaining the same commitment to accuracy, depth and local focus that defined the paper for generations.

That balance between tradition and change will shape the next chapter of the Messenger-Press.

The stories may be delivered differently, but the core purpose remains the same: to inform, to connect and to reflect the communities it serves.

The Messenger-Press is here once again — ready to capture the next chapter of these communities’ stories.

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Pictured

scenes from the event. At top, Joy Santillo purchases an item from Laura Reed, the owner of the Peace of Earth booth. At center, Emma Bunn from Allentown (left) and Chloe Motola from Upper Freehold show off their face paint. AT bottom Brothers Paul and Karl Bergin from Allentown check out the Lego Madness Table. (Photos by Suzette J. Lucas.)

sports Conroy breaks saves record, drives Redbirds title bid

By Rich Fisher

While many seniors are kind of cruising toward graduation as their high school careers wind down, Megan Conroy is just the opposite.

That’s what makes her so special and so successful.

The Allentown High girls’ lacrosse goalie is taking three advance placement courses and one honors class this semester, while also studying video of future lax opponents, and practicing and playing games as she tries helping the Redbirds to a second straight NJSIAA Group II state championship. She is also preparing for her “next life” at Notre Dame University.

“That’s the biggest struggle, balancing everything,” Conroy said. “I did not get the dream of the spring semester for a senior. I’m into a lot of work right now. When you’re balancing academics and athletics, obviously social life can be a little difficult but I do find time for everything.”

Allentown coach Justin Schmid can only admire Conroy’s work effort.

“No senior-itis for her,” Schmid said. “She’s gotta stay focused until the very end. But that’s what she’s done. She sacrifices to be where she’s at.”

And where exactly is she?

To start with, she has a 3.9 grade point average and is a member of the Math Honor Society and National Honor Society. On the field, Conroy recently broke the school’s all-time record for lacrosse saves and later became the first Redbird girls player with 600 saves.

That’s good enough to gain her acceptance to Notre Dame, where she will report on June 15 for what is known as the Bridge Program for student-athletes. For five weeks Conroy will do lifting, conditioning, take three classes and play lacrosse with her future ND teammates.

Hopefully, she can dip her toe in the Atlantic Ocean sometime in July. But rest assured Conroy will be anxious for a quick return to the Midwest.

She already sounds like a Golden Domer.

Conroy talked to coach Christine Halfpenny the first day communication was allowed on Dec. 1 of her junior year. She visited the South Bend campus the third weekend in September and was overcome by the sheer power of ND’s tradition.

“Everything about it was so perfect.”

Conroy said. The campus was amazing. I really value a tight team with a good culture, like we have at Allentown... They gave us sideline passes for the football game and it’s obviously insane for Notre Dame football. It was the most enjoyable experience ever. I told the coach how interested I was and I committed less than a week later.”

With her future mapped out, Conroy has not forgotten about the present and the mission her current team is on.

The career goalkeeper is bent on repeating the magic of last year and wants to maintain the excellence of her first three seasons, in which AHS went 64-11 with three trips to the South Jersey Group II title game.

“We’re all just chasing the feeling of winning the state championship again,” Conroy said. “No one really expected us to be able to do that last year.”

The Redbirds are striving for further awesomeness. Despite some key graduation losses they carried a 7-2 record into their Apr. 17 game with Princeton. Conroy was her usual stingy self, yielding an average of 7.1 goals per game while making 14.3 saves per contest.

On Apr. 1 she made 10 saves against Lawrence, giving her 580 for her career and surpassing 2013 grad Nicole Gehring’s school mark of 574. With the Redbirds in Florida on Apr. 9, she made three saves against St. Vincent-St. Mary of Ohio, which gave her an even 600.

Not surprisingly she took the humble

Allentown High girls’ lacrosse goalie Megan Conroy (Photo by Suzette J. Lucas.)

Allentown High girls’ lacrosse goalie Megan Conroy. (Photo by Suzette J. Lucas.)

route to her records.

“That was something I was really happy to do for myself, but it’s 100 percent something I could not have done without the girls who play in front of me,” she said. “I also give a lot of credit to my parents (Michael and Donna) with the success I’ve had. Since I was young and traveling to tournaments, my dad would always shoot on me. Both of them helped me so much and Schmid did as well.”

Those rides to games started when Conroy was 5 and playing for the Dragons rec program. In second grade she started travel with DEWLAX and moved to the high-powered Steps program when she got to high school. That provided the opportunity to be tutored by Mike Walsh, who coached 26 All-Americans and seven state championship teams at Summit High School.

“Everyone there is so good and everyone competes all the time, that was probably the best decision I ever made,” Conroy said. “Most colleges recruit from travel and I would say Steps helped significantly with my recruiting.”

There was never any doubt what position Conroy would play. By second grade she was strictly a goalie, following in the footsteps of brother Jack, who graduated from AHS last year.

“I liked it immediately,” she said. “When you’re that young not every team has a goalie in rec. I would just hope the other team would have a goalie so I could play goal. If not I had to play in the field.”

Schmid first saw Conroy in seventh grade when he was the middle school coach. Being new to lacrosse, he thought she was good but wasn’t quite sure until other coaches began buzzing.

“They were like ‘Who is that kid, she’s unreal,’” Schmid recalled. “As a new guy in lacrosse I’m thinking ‘Is she really that good?’ and these coaches are like ‘Dude, that kid’s legit.’ And she’s 12.”

Schmid got the high school job in Conroy’s freshman year. He recalled her being somewhat humble, thinking she might be on JV or maybe split time on varsity.

“By day two in tryouts, she had separated herself,” the coach said. “Even though I coached her before, everybody got an even chance. I wanted to look at everybody and with her it was just save after save in tryouts and away we go.”

It’s safe to say she wasn’t concerning herself with 600 saves in ninth grade.

“I can’t say I had the school record on my mind when I was a freshman,” she said with a laugh. “I just wanted to be that starting goalie on varsity. As it went on it was just to compete with the high-level players. When you’re a freshman playing peo-

ple who are 18 you just want to compete.”

And she did.

Conroy made 130 and 214 saves her first two seasons when Allentown reached the sectional finals. She had 208 saves last year and was key to the state title run.

In assessing what makes his goalie so good, the coach noted her dedication to trekking to North Jersey for travel, saying — Summit’s not close — and noted her attention to detail.

“She’s always studying film, she’s studying kids’ shot tendencies, especially the kids she knows we have to shut down,” Schmid said.

Conroy is aided by senior defenders Victoria Stawaris and Chloe Tomlinson, who are her two of her best friends, as well as senior Sophia LaSalle, who Schmid said “has been a rock star the past two years for us.” With veteran defenders Ava Mintchwarner and Bella Magliozzo graduated, the newcomers in the back are sophomore Caeyln Fitzpatrick and Grace Vergari.

“I have such a good relationship with Chloey and Vic,” Conroy said. “Those are two people I spend so much time with off the field. We work so well together on the field...

“Soph is awesome. She’s playing a little bit of D and midfield. We usually put her against some of the best players we’re up against.”

And then there are the newbies, Fitzpatrick and Vergari.

“I had to take on a much bigger leadership role this year than last year,” Conroy said. “Both of them trust what I say and what Chloey and Vic say. They always ask questions about what they can do better.”

And while it’s a stellar defensive group, it helps to have a goalie they can trust in the back.

“If you can force a contested or a long shot, that’s almost like a turnover because Meg’s gonna track it and save it,” Schmid said. “We tell them ‘Don’t try to do too much to where you get beat.’ If it’s a onev-one with the goalie, you have advantage to the attacker. It’s hard to stop someone right in front of you although Meg’s done it from time to time.”

One of Conroy’s most refreshing attributes is never casting blame on anyone but herself.

“There’s never a finger point to someone who makes a mistake and leaves her with a one-v-one,” Schmid said. “It’s just like ‘Let’s correct this and move on.’ She’s a point the thumb (at herself), not the finger kind of person. Sometimes she’ll take on too much when it’s not her fault, but that’s what the great ones do.”

And there’s little doubt that Conroy is the greatest to ever do it at Allentown.

Tuesday, May 5

Community information day. No major scheduled events listed for this date, though residents are encouraged to check local municipal and library websites for additional programming and updates. This midweek gap often provides flexibility for smaller or pop-up activities that may not be formally listed. allentownboronj. com.

Wednesday, May 6

Millstone Township Committee meeting, Municipal Building, 8 p.m. Regular meeting of the township governing body where ordinances, budgets, and municipal business are reviewed. The agenda typically includes updates from departments and an opportunity for public comment. millstonenj.gov.

Chair Zumba, Allentown Borough Hall. Low-impact exercise class designed for seniors using a combination of seated and standing movements set to music. The session focuses on improving balance, flexibility, and coordination in a supportive group environment. Participants can work at their own pace, making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. allentownboronj.com.

Thursday, May 7

Upper Freehold Township Committee meeting, Municipal Building, 7 p.m. Meeting of township officials covering local governance, ordinances, and community matters, with time reserved for public input. uftnj.com.

Virtual author talk, online, 7 p.m. Author Marjan Kamali discusses her novel “The Lion Women of Tehran,” offering insight into her writing process and the historical and cultural influences behind the story. The program includes a moderated discussion and audience Q&A. Registration is required through the Monmouth County Library System. monmouthcountylib. org.

Silversun Pickups concert, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 6:30 p.m. National touring alternative rock band performs at one of the Jersey Shore’s most recognizable music venues. The Stone Pony’s longstanding reputation draws both local and regional audiences, creating a high-energy live music experience. stoneponyonline.com.

Friday, May 8

Live music and food trucks, Working Dog Winery, 2 to 8 p.m. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings alongside live music and a rotating lineup of

HAPPENING

public is invited to attend and provide input during designated comment periods. ufrsd.net.

Tuesday, May 12

Allentown Borough Council meeting, Borough Hall, 6:30 p.m. Regular meeting of the borough governing body addressing municipal business, ordinances, and community concerns. Residents may speak during the public comment portion. allentownboronj.com.

Virtual author talk, online, 2 p.m. Dr. Vivienne Ming presents “Robot-Proof,” exploring how individuals can adapt to rapid technological change and remain competitive in evolving job markets. The talk includes real-world examples and audience discussion. monmouthcountylib. org.

Puzzle drop-in, Allentown Library, 6 to 8:45 p.m. Informal program where participants work together on jigsaw puzzles in a quiet, social setting. The activity encourages collaboration and provides a low-key way to connect with others. monmouthcountylib.org.

Wednesday, May 13

food trucks in an open-air setting. The event is designed as a flexible, drop-in experience, allowing guests to arrive at any time and stay as long as they like. Seating areas provide space for socializing and enjoying the vineyard surroundings. workingdogwinerynj.com.

Greeting card making workshop, Allentown Borough Hall, 1:30 p.m. Hands-on class where participants create personalized greeting cards using a variety of materials and techniques. The workshop encourages creativity while also supporting the Allentown Presbyterian Food Pantry through requested donations. Participants can take home finished cards and ideas for future projects. allentownboronj.com.

saTurday, May 9

Creative Arts Festival, Thompson Park, Lincroft, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Annual outdoor festival featuring regional artists, craft vendors, and live music performances throughout the park. Visitors can browse handmade goods, observe demonstrations, and interact directly with artists. Food vendors and open spaces create a relaxed environment for families and groups to spend the day. Free admission and parking make the event accessible to a wide audience. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Mother’s Day Bouquet Bar and live music, Working Dog Winery, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Guests can create custom floral arrangements while en-

joying live music and food vendors in a vineyard setting. The drop-in format allows participants to design at their own pace, making it easy to fit into a broader day of activities. Also Sunday. workingdogwinerynj.com.

Mother’s Day in the Grove, Laurita Winery. Large outdoor festival featuring food trucks, live music, and open seating throughout the vineyard grounds. Visitors can move between vendor areas and performance spaces, creating a flexible and social experience. Also Sunday. lauritawinery.com.

sunday, May 10

Mother’s Day Bouquet Bar and live music, Working Dog Winery, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Second day of the event with continued floral workshops and live entertainment. Guests can participate in the activity or simply enjoy the atmosphere and music. workingdogwinerynj.com.

Mother’s Day in the Grove, Laurita Winery. Continued festival programming with multiple food vendors and performances scheduled throughout the day. lauritawinery.com.

Monday, May 11

Upper Freehold Regional Board of Education meeting, Allentown High School, 7 p.m. Meeting where school district policies, budgets, and educational initiatives are reviewed. The

The Hindenburg Experience, Allentown Library, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Multimedia presentation examining the Hindenburg disaster through archival footage and historical context. The program explores the event’s lasting impact on aviation and public perception. monmouthcountylib.org.

Millstone Planning Board meeting, Municipal Building, 7:30 p.m. Meeting focused on land use applications, zoning considerations, and development proposals within the township. Public participation is encouraged. millstonenj.gov.

Thursday, May 14

Baby storytime, Allentown Library, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. Early literacy program using songs, rhymes, and simple stories to introduce infants and toddlers to language development. Caregivers participate alongside children, helping reinforce rhythm, repetition, and interaction. The program is designed to be short, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. monmouthcountylib.org.

Family storytime, Allentown Library, 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Interactive session combining stories, music, and movement activities for young children and caregivers. The program encourages participation and helps build early reading skills in a group setting. It is structured to keep children engaged through varied pacing

Visitors can enjoy historical demonstrations, milling displays, and horse-drawn wagon rides during Walnford Day at Historic Walnford in Upper Freehold on Saturday, May 16. The annual event celebrates local history with hands-on activities, contests, and free admission.

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and activity. monmouthcountylib.org.

Getting crafty, Allentown Library, 4:30 to 5 p.m. Hands-on craft session where children create simple projects using provided materials. Each week features a different theme or technique, allowing participants to explore creativity while developing fine motor skills. monmouthcountylib.org.

Friday, May 15

Senior jazz dance class, Allentown Borough Hall, 1 p.m. Instructor-led dance session focused on movement, rhythm, and social interaction for seniors. The class welcomes both beginners and experienced participants, with an emphasis on enjoyment rather than technical performance. Donations are accepted to support programming. allentownboronj.com.

saTurday, May 16

PickelPALOOZA Festival, Laurita Winery, noon to evening. Festival featuring pickle-themed foods, specialty vendors, and live music throughout the day. Visitors can explore a wide variety of food offerings while moving between performance areas and vendor spaces. The event is structured for drop-in attendance, allowing guests to stay for short visits or extended periods. lauritawinery.com.

“The Hindenburg Experience,” a multimedia presentation at the allentown Library on May 13 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., examines the 1937 disaster through archival footage and historical context, highlighting its lasting impact on aviation and public perception.

Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival, Bradley Park, Asbury Park, noon to evening. Waterfront event featuring plant-based food vendors, live music, and shopping. Attendees can sample a wide range of vegan cuisine while enjoying performances and browsing artisan goods. The open layout allows for easy movement between food, music, and vendor areas. asburyparkveganfoodfestival.com.

Spring wreath workshop, Working Dog Winery, 6 to 8 p.m. Guided class where participants create decorative wreaths using seasonal materials. Instruction is provided step-by-step, making the workshop accessible to beginners while still engaging for those with experience. The setting offers a relaxed atmosphere combined with creative activity. workingdogwinerynj.com.

sunday, May 17

Walnford Day, Historic Walnford, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Celebration of more than 200 years of local history featuring demonstrations of milling, quilting, basket weaving, and other traditional crafts. Visitors can take part in hands-on activities, listen to live music, and enjoy wagon rides through the historic property. The event offers a detailed look at early American life in a preserved setting. Free admission and parking. monmouthcountyparks.com.

PickelPALOOZA Festival, Laurita Winery, noon to evening. Second day of the festival with continued food vendors, live music, and outdoor seating. Visitors often return to explore additional offerings and performances not seen the previous day. lauritawinery.com.

Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival, Bradley Park, noon to evening. Continued programming with vendors, music, and shopping throughout the day. The event maintains a steady flow of activity, allowing attendees to explore at their own pace. asburyparkveganfoodfestival.com.

Monday, May 18

Allentown Lions Club golf outing, Cream Ridge Golf Course, 7:30 a.m. Fundraising event

supporting local scholarships and community programs. Participants take part in a full round of golf followed by social and networking opportunities. The outing brings together residents, business owners, and supporters of local initiatives. allentownboronj.com.

Wednesday, May 20

Turtles of New Jersey, virtual, 6 p.m. Educational presentation examining native turtle species and their habitats across the state. The program covers conservation challenges, environmental changes, and ways residents can support local ecosystems. Presented in an accessible format for a general audience. monmouthcountylib.org.

Thursday, May 21

Turkish mosaic candle holder workshop, Working Dog Winery, 6 to 8 p.m. Hands-on class where participants design and assemble decorative candle holders using colored glass and mosaic techniques. The workshop combines artistic instruction with a relaxed, social environment, making it accessible to beginners and experienced crafters alike. workingdogwinerynj.com.

Botanicals and booze: herbs and plants in liquor production, virtual, 6 p.m. Program exploring how plants, herbs, and roots have been used historically and in modern times to flavor distilled spirits. The presentation connects botany with cultural traditions and production methods. monmouthcountylib.org.

Line dancing night, Bent Iron Brewing Co., 5:30 to 9 p.m. Evening event beginning with a beginner lesson followed by open dancing. Participants learn basic steps before moving into a social dance format, making it accessible for newcomers while still engaging for experienced dancers. bentironbrewing.com.

Friday, May 22

Roebling Museum tour, Roebling Museum, Roebling, 11 a.m. Guided group tour exploring the legacy of the Roebling family, best known for their role in building the Brooklyn Bridge and other major engineering projects. The program begins with a short film that provides historical context before moving into the museum’s exhibit spaces. Visitors then take part in a walking tour of the company town, examining worker housing, industrial planning, and preserved structures. The experience offers a detailed look at both engineering history and the social structure of a company-built community. roeblingmuseum.org.

saTurday, May 23

Memorial Weekend Dressage I, Horse Park of New Jersey, 8 a.m. Recognized equestrian competition featuring riders and horses competing in multiple divisions based on skill and experience. Participants perform choreographed movements that are judged on precision, rhythm, and communication between horse and rider. Spectators can move between

arenas to observe different classes throughout the day. The setting provides an up-close view of a sport that combines athleticism, discipline, and training. Also Sunday. horseparkofnewjersey.com.

Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival, Monmouth Park, Oceanport, daytime. Large outdoor festival featuring more than 30 food trucks offering a wide range of cuisines. The event includes live music performances scheduled throughout the day, along with seating areas where visitors can gather and dine. Families can expect a relaxed, festival-style atmosphere with space to explore and socialize. The racetrack setting provides ample room for movement, making it one of the larger food events in the region. Also Sunday and Monday. monmouthpark.com.

sunday, May 24

Memorial Weekend Dressage II, Horse Park of New Jersey, 8 a.m. Continuation of the weekend competition with additional classes and riders entering the arena. Judges evaluate each performance based on control, precision, and harmony between horse and rider. Spectators can follow multiple rings of activity throughout the day. The event also offers an opportunity for newcomers to learn more about the sport in an accessible environment. horseparkofnewjersey. com.

Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival, Monmouth Park, daytime. Second day of the festival with continued access to the full lineup of food vendors and live entertainment. Visitors can return to try different cuisines or attend performances they may have missed. The flexible schedule allows for drop-in attendance at any time during the day. monmouthpark.com.

Monday, May 25

Memorial Day parade, Allentown Borough, 10:30 a.m. Annual community parade honoring veterans and active service members, featuring participation from local organizations, marching groups, and civic leaders. The procession moves through the borough and is followed by a commemorative ceremony recognizing those who served. Residents typically line the streets, making it one of the town’s most visible civic events of the year. allentownboronj.com.

Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival, Monmouth Park, daytime. Final day of the multi-day event, often drawing the largest crowds of the weekend. Food vendors, live music, and open seating areas remain available throughout the day. The holiday atmosphere adds to the event’s energy and attendance. monmouthpark.com.

Chair Zumba, Allentown Borough Hall. Low-impact fitness class for seniors focusing on movement, coordination, and music in a supportive group environment. Participants can adapt movements to their comfort level while still engaging in the full session. allentownboronj.com.

Tuesday, May 26

Community information day. No major scheduled events listed, though residents are encouraged to check municipal and library websites for additional programming and updates. This lighter day provides flexibility for informal activities and smaller gatherings. allentownboronj.com.

Wednesday, May 27

Community information day. Midweek downtime with no major events listed, providing a natural pause before the final stretch of the month’s programming. Additional events may be listed through local organizations as they are scheduled. allentownboronj.com.

Thursday, May 28

PONKS parent support group, Allentown Library, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Peer-led support group offering a space for parents to connect, share experiences, and access resources. The program encourages open discussion in a structured but informal setting. Participants can exchange ideas, ask questions, and build a network of support within the community. monmouthcountylib.org.

Friday, May 29

New Jersey Symphony: Star Wars in Concert, Count Basie Center, Red Bank, 7:30 p.m. Live orchestral performance synchronized with a screening of the film, bringing the iconic score to life. Musicians perform in real time alongside the movie, creating an immersive experience that blends cinema and live music. The event draws both classical music fans and film audiences. thebasie.org.

saTurday, May 30

Weekend winery and live music events, various regional venues, daytime and evening hours. Wineries and breweries throughout the region host live performances, food vendors, and outdoor seating as part of their regular weekend programming. Visitors can explore multiple locations, each offering a slightly different atmosphere and lineup. The format encourages casual drop-in attendance and social gatherings. workingdogwinerynj.com.

sunday, May 31

Weekend winery and live music events, various regional venues, daytime hours. Continued weekend programming with music, food, and outdoor activities across regional venues. Guests can visit a single location or move between sites depending on schedules and preferences. lauritawinery.com.

Clayton Park hiking trails, Upper Freehold, daily, 7 a.m. to dusk Park offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and nature observation. Visitors can explore wooded areas, open fields, and scenic landscapes throughout the day, making it a consistent recreational option regardless of scheduled events. monmouthcountyparks.com.

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