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JUNE 2026 FREE

Mane mission

Fresh start for farmers market

A rescued Standardbred’s viral police chase shows the power of second chances

By R.H. Schmitt Jr.

The Allentown Farmers Market is moving to High Street with new leadership and more room to grow.

Katrina Carroll of D’Amico Farms, a fourth-generation family vegetable farm on Provinceline Road in Upper Freehold Township, and Gabrielle “Gaby” Rosenblum of CentralGab, a marketing and event planning firm in the Hamilton-Robbinsville area, have joined forces to relaunch the market.

The farmers market, previously located at Pete Sensi Park on South Main Street by the Mill Pond, will now be held in the elementary school parking lot across from Allentown Presbyterian Church twice monthly throughout the summer season.

Early community response has been strong.

The original Allentown Farmers Market started just over three years ago. It was organized and run by the Swal family, the previous owners of Allentown’s ice cream shop, Swal Dairy Ice Cream, which is now Heavenly Havens Ice See MARKET, Page 8

By Jane MeGGitt

Monmouth County and Allentown officials joined residents May 14 after county commissioners approved a bond ordinance funding the purchase of the Stein property. Pictured are Commissioner Ross Licitra, left; Commissioner Deputy Director Dominick DiRocco; Allentown Council President John Elder; Betty Elder; Mayor Thomas Fritts; Commissioner Susan Kiley; Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone; Elliot Wiesner; Sue Kozel; Barbara Pleva; and Tolani Taylor of Clean Water Action New Jersey.

County Oks funds for Stein property preservation Bill Sanservino

Monmouth County has taken a major step toward preserving a historic stretch of farmland near Allentown as the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners voted

4-1 after a public hearing May 14 to approve a bond ordinance funding the acquisition of the Stein property, a 115-acre tract in Upper Freehold and Robbinsville that had been proposed for two large warehouses.

The vote marked one of the final public steps toward the county’s purchase of the Stein

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property, but the acquisition will not be complete until the county officially closes on the deal.

The tract has drawn attention not only because of the warehouse proposal, but also because of its ties to the Revolutionary War. Local preservation supporters have said British troops enSee STEIN, Page 10

A horse once headed for slaughter surged through traffic, scaffolding and parked cars on a Manhattan street, carrying a New York City mounted police officer in pursuit of a woman accused of stealing a purse.

The horse was Kelly, formerly known as EP Great Drive, a registered Standardbred rescued in 2020 by the Standardbred Retirement Foundation.

That moment, captured on video April 19, showed exactly what Judy Bokman has spent decades trying to prove: Retired Standardbreds are not throwaway horses. They are smart, steady and capable of remarkable second acts.

SRF saved Kelly from a Pennsylvania “kill pen.” After being given time to rehabilitate and heal, he was adopted by the New York City Police Department and given the name Kelly, after a Staten Island police narcotics officer killed in the line of duty.

The chase took the officer and See SRF, Page 4

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SRF continued from Page 1 horse around West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue, through traffic, sidewalk scaffolding and parked cars before the woman was apprehended with help from a witness, according to media reports.

The moment stood out because NYPD mounted officers are typically deployed for crowd control or observation, not arrests, according to media reports. Kelly, however, stayed calm and responsive as Officer Kyle McLaughlin rode him through the noise and confusion.

As SRF noted at the time, “His trusted partner stood quietly in the street, composed, as if it were just another day on the job. The officer’s brave and stellar capture was one that deserves every accolade.”

As a result of the arrest, McLaughlin was promoted to special detective.

“When I need a lift during the day, I’ll just play that video, because it’s such a tremendous video of courage and bravery and a good level head on board and a really terrific police officer,” said Bokman, founder and executive director of the Standardbred Retirement Foundation.

Over the past 37 years, the Standardbred Retirement Foundation has helped more than 6,000 horses, many of which were at risk of slaughter.

Millstone resident Judith Bokman was 30 when she founded SRF, an organization 3foot-sign-Little-league.pdf

1

3/2/26

Judy Bokman, founder and executive director of the Standardbred Retirement Foundation, stands with Marion Make A Buck, a former race and work horse, one of the retired harness racehorses helped by the Cream Ridge-based rescue organization.

(Photo by Suzette J. Lucas.) dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming retired harness racehorses. Today, SRF is headquartered at Walnridge Farm in Cream Ridge, with about 80 horses on-site.

Active in 30 states, SRF is the largest adoption program dedicated to Standard-

bred horses in the United States. It has satellite farms in Kentucky, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

The Standardbred is an American breed used in harness racing, where horses pull a

driver in a sulky. The breed traces its roots to the English thoroughbred Messenger, brought to the United States in 1788, and all Standardbreds descend from his greatgrandson, Hambletonian 10.

The term Standardbred refers to the requirement that a horse run a 2-minute, 30-second mile to qualify for the breed’s registry, which was established in 1879. Standardbreds can reach racing speeds of 25 to 35 mph.

When Bokman started SRF, few Standardbreds had a career beyond racing or the breeding shed, other than becoming Amish transportation. Many ended up at low-end auctions, where they were often sold for slaughter.

Horse people outside the Standardbred industry did not consider the animals suitable as riding horses. Today, the generally calm temperament of the Standardbred has won many fans, and the horses are considered versatile family and trail horses.

SRF played an important role in establishing the Standardbred as a suitable riding and pleasure driving horse. Their unflappable nature makes them a good choice for mounted police units across the country.

Other Standardbreds rescued by SRF have gone on to mounted police units in cities including New York, Newark and Miami.

Others have appeared in films, competed See SRF, Page 6

3:06 PM

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SRF continued from Page 4 in show jumping and lived out their lives in therapeutic or traditional riding programs.

Bokman promotes the versatility of Standardbreds, emphasizing their easy-to-workwith nature and excellent manners. She dubbed them “the Brainiac breed.”

The horses are usually good with children and a favorite of older riders seeking safe horses for the trail. For those who enjoy showing, there are Standardbred divisions at many local shows.

The National Standardbred Show, held each September at the Horse Park of New Jersey, features riders and drivers from across the country competing in a variety of disciplines, from Western to English and dressage to driving.

Bokman got started in harness racing by owning horses with her uncle. She met her husband, equine veterinarian Steve Bokman, at the racetrack when he was working for the veterinarian she used.

At the time, she was a flight attendant and traveled constantly. She felt her frequent absences were not good for her dog, and Steve offered to take him because he had recently had to put his own dog down.

The rest is Standardbred history. Perhaps not surprisingly, the couple is also involved in dog rescue.

As an owner, Bokman got a view of racing from different angles. She saw that many

Standardbred racehorses eventually ended up at slaughter. That led her to start SRF in 1989, along with Paula Campbell, wife of Harness Racing Hall of Fame driver John Campbell.

Its mission statement reads, “Our heartfelt mission is to rescue horses from the threat of slaughter, secure loving homes with the distinctive commitment to lifelong follow up and guardianship. We tirelessly promote a universal understanding that horses require a lifetime commitment of enduring care.”

There is no typical day at SRF for Bokman. An ordinary day consists of checking on 80 equines, organizing volunteers and showing horses to potential adopters.

Every week, she estimates SRF rescues six to eight horses, although sometimes there are as many as 12.

“We have to communicate with the pens where these horses are being held by slaughter brokers. We frantically must raise funds to purchase the horse so it doesn’t ship to slaughter. We are always reaching out for support and donations. Our social media is very important to help these animals,” she said.

Transportation between the pens and a quarantine facility must be arranged.

“Most of them go right to a vet, because you can’t really count on what the pen is telling you about their condition,” she said.

6  The Messenger-Press | June 2026

While Dr. Bokman is not usually at the SRF facility because he has his own busy practice, he is available to consult by phone almost daily.

If there is a situation with a horse, whether in New Jersey or as far afield as Oklahoma, SRF gets photos to him and descriptions of what is going on. They lean on him for advice about treatment or whether the horse needs to see a veterinarian immediately.

While Judy Bokman did not start SRF as a partnership with her husband, in many ways it has become that.

Another memory close to her heart involves her son Brett, who now lives in Montana. Brett has always been a cowboy at heart, partial to quarter horses. He is also interested in Civil War history and participates in reenactments.

One day, he planned to go to a reenactment with a friend who did not have a horse available. Brett let the friend ride his quarter horse, and he borrowed an SRF horse to ride.

When he came home, he could not stop saying how perfect the Standardbred had been.

“Next weekend, he’s coming back from Montana, and three SRF horses are going to a Civil War reenactment in Virginia,” she said.

SRF relies heavily on individual donations,

as it receives no funding from organizations like the ASPCA, according to Bokman. The need for fundraising is continuous.

SRF does not own a farm but pays for boarding and leased locations throughout the United States. Donations provide most of the organization’s funding, with additional support coming from casino nights, golf outings, harness racing organizations, grants and merchandise sales.

The organization currently houses 487 horses across sanctuaries in several states and needs a farm of its own to better manage its sanctuaries.

Those wanting to adopt a horse must fill out the application available online and pay a $20 application processing fee. They must send photos of their farm or boarding facility. The adopter must agree to having their veterinarian complete SRF’s veterinarian follow-up form semiannually, generally combined with spring and fall inoculations.

An SRF representative will call to review the application and gain more insight into the adopter’s horse experience and the type of horse they are seeking.

Once approved, the adopter can select a horse appropriate for their needs. SRF asks for a donation of between $1,000 and $4,000, based on the individual horse and its abilities. Companion horses unsuitable for riding do not require an adoption donation.

An SRF horse can never be bred, used for

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Allentown already has several estabMARKET continued from Page 1 lished businesses that help draw visitors Cream on Main Street.

The Swals, a longtime Allentown downtown.

The Old Mill, owned and operated by merchant family, own the building that housed the old Allentown Hardware Corky and Kris Danch and their famStore and is now Bruno’s Bicycle Shop ily and seen by many as the heart of and One Sweet Ride Candy Shop, among the borough, features The Moth Coffee House, Spider’s Cafe, a spot currently other buildings and businesses in town.

The market’s new location on High being developed for evening entertainStreet gives Carroll and Rosenblum an ment and private get-togethers, as well opportunity to spread the increased num- as unusual bespoke shops inside and ber and diversity of vendors over a larger out, like the designer clothing boutique area with room to grow, according to Dawne, Sea Ginger and a yoga venue, The Movement.

Rosenblum.

That being said, the charming but quiet She said she saw strong potential in Allentown and Upper Freehold after the village is hardly known as a getaway locaHamilton Farmers Market venue ended. tion. Town officials have said a thriving, She said vendors she had worked with, diverse farmers market featuring locally NEW Color WOW Money local business connections and Allen- grown fresh produce, food trucks, a wide Laundering shampoo and town Councilman Dan Payson helped variety of handcrafted goods and a safe conditioner, hydrating great for her see the borough as both a commer- play area for children might help peosummer hair that’s thirsty cial opportunity and a safe, family-ori- ple from throughout the region and well beyond see the town in a ented event space. more inviting and inter“Being in Allentown esting light. is very exciting,” RosenThe market’s Mayor Thomas Fritts blum said. said the market can help She added that Allenmove to High unite culture, commerce town Presbyterian Street gives and conservation while Church was inviting boosting local tourism and cooperative, with organizers Lived-in blonde gives a softer, more natural look by and bringing foot traffic church leaders primarily blending seamlessly with your natural color for an effortless room to to established small busiinterested in collecting grow-out. It’s also lower maintenance, allowing more time nesses and vendors. material goods and food expand. between appointments with less noticeable regrowth.

“Perhaps most imporfor their charity work. tantly, every purchase “I immediately thought, made here supports ‘this is the right community with an established small Farmers our ongoing mission to protect and Market, a group of really great brick and encourage local farms and open spaces NEW Loreal professional Alpha mortar Main Street businesses, and a from overdevelopment, and industrial Sleek system, at home keratin wonderfully cooperative and enthusias- encroachment, sustaining our rich agritreatment that keeps hair sleek for tic Mayor, governing body, and Borough cultural and historical heritage and keepweeks! ing Allentown green for generations to Administrator,’” Rosenblum said.

28 South Main Street, Allentown, NJ Carroll was the key element, she said, come,” Fritts said.

A South Main Street resident who in making the decision to fully buy in to fringehairboutique.com 609-223-2988 the much-expanded Allentown Farmers asked not to be named compared the potential impact to the Allentown Lions Market.

“Katrina and her family are the real Club Beer Garden during the Allentown UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Fall Festival, when downtown businesses deal,” Rosenblum said.

She said the D’Amico family are see more customers.

“For a few days in the fall we turn into long-established Upper Freehold farmers with a multigenerational wholesale a hopping little city,” the resident said. produce farm. The family also had been “People come here for one thing — like a the primary produce provider for the parade or a craft beer garden — and then Swal family’s original farm market in realize that Allentown is walkable. They wander around and explore the town.”

Sensi Park.

In previous years, when the market Carroll and Rosenblum said the larger, twice-monthly, family-friendly farmers was held in the Sensi Park lot on South market had to be handled like an event Main Street, some residents complained h Road 238 from Scotch Road that draws people across the region that the market was too small and the into town, rather than simply a collection vendors too repetitive. y a 9000 d Holi of vendors. 609-406-9000 Still others wondered, sometimes quite 10am-8pm cateringThe hard-working Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-8pm vocally, if the market wasn’t just addipair said Allentown, ! traysknown for many years as a sleepy, histori- tional competition GIES.COM for downtown busiPRIMOHOAGIES.COM With this coupon. Expires 6/30/26. cal hamlet with more cozy coffee houses, nesses already starved for foot traffic.

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Councilwoman Erica DeKranes, Council President John Elder, Gabrielle RosenblumZampella, Katrina Carroll and Mayor Thomas Fritts cut the ribbon at the relaunched Allentown Farmers Market on May 16, 2026.

In fact, with the many new infrastructure improvements and beautification efforts, including the massive sidewalk and street repairs that have happened in recent years, the mayor and others argue that Allentown is more walkable, more inviting and more business-friendly than ever.

“I strongly suggest that people come out and see for themselves,” Fritts said.

“Our Historic Village is on the rise in terms of walkability, significant community involvement, a great elected team, and Administrator, and a downtown full of one-of-a-kind small businesses and boutiques.”

Carroll, of D’Amico Farms, said what many people don’t understand is what it takes to bring fresh produce to market.

“My Uncle Alfonso has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer,” she said. “He runs the D’Amico Farm. To get our best produce to a Farmers Market — even one just up the road, requires a full family effort.”

Carroll said the cold winter and chilly spring delayed planting for many area farmers. She said it takes two teams of workers, as well as time and resources, to keep the wholesale farm running while also bringing goods to market.

“We’re lucky enough now to have two teams working hard to keep our wholesale farm running while the other team of family members runs our D’Amico Fresh Produce stand at the market, twice a month,” Carroll said.

She said her work with the market is connected to both the family farm and the broader Allentown community.

D’Amico Farms is a fourth-generation

family vegetable farm rooted in Allentown. For decades, the family has cared for 50 acres, growing fresh, seasonal vegetables and preserving the agricultural traditions that have shaped the farm.

Its on-site farm stand offers produce harvested at peak freshness throughout the growing season.

“What inspires me most is the chance to honor what my family has created and ensure it continues to thrive for years ahead,” Carroll said.

Rosenblum has built a career around content creation, event production, fitness, wellness experiences, pop-up events and community activations designed to support small businesses and bring people together.

Carroll and Rosenblum said the grand opening of the farmers market on May 16, featuring a ribbon cutting attended by the mayor and many Borough Council members, along with a large crowd of shoppers, was a smashing success.

The Allentown Farmers Market will be open twice a month through September from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Market dates are June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25, Aug. 8 and 22, and Sept. 12 and 26.

For questions or to find out how to become a vendor, email Gaby and Katrina at allentownfarmersmarketnj@ gmail.com.

Shoppers can visit D’Amico Farms on Facebook or in person at its farmstand at 632 Provinceline Road, Upper Freehold.

The farmstand is open every day.

A full, updated list of vendors, which changes from one month to the next, is highlighted on CentralGab’s Facebook page.

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STEIN continued from Page 1 camped on or near the land in 1778 before the Battle of Monmouth, one of the largest battles of the war.

The timing has added significance as the United States prepares for events connected to the nation’s semiquincentennial this July 4.

The ordinance appropriates $27.75 million for the stated purpose of the acquisition of property for recreation, conservation and farmland preservation purposes. It also authorizes the issuance of $22.75 million in bonds to help finance the purchase.

The ordinance includes a $5 million down payment from the county’s Open Space, Recreation, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund.

The Stein property is located along Old York Road in Upper Freehold and Allentown Road in Robbinsville. The land had been targeted for warehouse development totaling about 453,720 square feet.

The project would have placed large-scale industrial buildings near residential neighborhoods in Allentown and along a corridor that residents and local officials have described as historically and environmentally sensitive.

The warehouse plan drew opposition from residents, Allentown officials, preservation advocates and some state of-

ficials. Opponents raised concerns about truck traffic, air pollution, noise, safety and the effect of industrial development near homes and historic properties.

The property was purchased in 2022 by Wall-based developer Active Acquisitions for $15 million. The proposed warehouse project later became the focus of public meetings, protests, petitions and legal action.

Allentown sued the Upper Freehold Planning Board and AAESUF Property — an LLC associated with Active Acquisitions — after the planning board approved the warehouse project in December 2024.

The lawsuit was part of a broader local effort to prevent the project from moving forward.

The county commissioners first voted March 12 to move forward with the purchase. The board introduced the bond ordinance in April and held the public hearing before the final vote May 14.

Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone, Commissioner Deputy Director Dominick DiRocco, Commissioner Susan Kiley and Commissioner Ross Licitra voted in favor of the ordinance. Commissioner Erik Anderson voted against it.

Supporters have described the acquisition as a major preservation victory for Allentown, Upper Freehold, Robbinsville and the surrounding region.

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The property could eventually become part of the Monmouth County park system. One possibility discussed publicly has been an extension of Crosswicks Creek Park, though no final park plan has been adopted.

Supporters have also discussed potential uses tied to the property’s history and rural character, including historical trails, agricultural programming or other passive recreation uses.

The Revolutionary War connection has become a central part of the preservation argument.

In June 1778, British forces moved across New Jersey after leaving Philadelphia. The movement led to the Battle of Monmouth, fought June 28, 1778, in what is now Freehold and Manalapan. The battle became a defining moment in the war and remains one of Monmouth County’s most important historic events.

Preservation advocates have said the Stein property is part of that broader Revolutionary War landscape. They have argued that protecting the land would preserve not only open space, but also a physical connection to the events surrounding the Battle of Monmouth.

That historical connection is expected to take on greater visibility as communities prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

For Allentown residents, the issue was also deeply local.

The proposed warehouses would have been built just outside the borough, but close enough that residents said Allentown would have felt the effects from truck traffic and related impacts. Opponents said the project would have changed the character of the area and placed industrial development too close to homes.

Public opposition included a Change. org petition with more than 4,000 signatures. Residents also attended planning board meetings, contacted public officials and participated in protests along Old York Road.

Allentown Mayor Thomas Fritts was among the officials who supported the preservation effort.

Following the passage of the bond measure, Fritts said: “Twenty-seven and a half million dollars is an incredible investment, but losing the soul of our community to massive warehouse development would have cost us far more.”

He added that residents, business owners and nonprofits in Allentown and Upper Freehold spent more than two years opposing a project they believed would harm the area’s historic landscape, traffic safety and quality of life.

He said the county’s 4-1 bond vote was about more than buying land. It was about permanently protecting the community.

“To those who said saving this property was an impossible pipe dream: our community just proved that preserving our shared heritage and environment is worth every single penny,” Fritts said.

The preservation effort was not universally supported.

Upper Freehold officials objected to the county purchase, saying the warehouse development would have generated significant tax revenue for the township and the Upper Freehold Regional School District.

Mayor Stanley Moslowski Jr. and the Township Committee argued that the county purchase removed land from the local tax rolls and interfered with the township’s control over land that had been zoned for warehouse use.

A township resolution opposing the purchase said the warehouse project could have generated about $13 million in local taxes over 10 years, including more than $9.5 million for the school district.

The resolution also said the tax revenue would have helped ease the burden on Upper Freehold taxpayers.

Township officials questioned the $27.75 million acquisition price, noting that the developer had purchased the property for $15 million in 2022. They also said the property represented one of the few remaining sites in Upper Freehold that could accommodate that type of development.

Supporters of the county acquisition have countered that the long-term value of preserving farmland, open space, history and quality of life outweighs the potential tax revenue from warehouses.

They have also argued that the property’s location near Allentown, its proximity to residential neighborhoods and its historic significance made it unsuitable for large-scale industrial development.

The vote does not immediately create a park or determine the final use of the land.

County officials still must complete the acquisition process and determine how the property will be used and managed.

But for preservation supporters, the May 14 vote represented the clearest sign yet that the warehouse project will be replaced by a public preservation effort.

The acquisition would also add to a larger preservation story in western Monmouth County, where open space, farmland, historic roads and Revolutionary War sites are central to the region’s identity.

For Allentown, the county action could help preserve the rural edge of the borough at a time when warehouse development has been a recurring issue throughout central New Jersey.

For Monmouth County, the purchase could turn a controversial industrial development site into public land with environmental, agricultural and historical value.

Lions honor Rob Strovinsky as parade grand marshal

By R.H. Schmitt Jr.

The Allentown Lions Club named one of its own, Lion Rob Strovinsky, as the 2026 grand marshal of the annual Memorial Day Parade.

Strovinsky, who moved to the borough in 1994 with his wife, Lisa, has been a member of the Lions Club for more than 30 years. He has been club president twice, first from 2000 to 2002 and then again from 2008 to 2009.

When he joined Lions, he was the youngest member of the charitable organization and had already begun volunteering in the community as a T-ball coach before he had children of his own.

The Lions Parade Committee historically has been extremely selective regarding who receives the honor of parade grand marshal, and this year was no different.

Deeply committed to the betterment of the town, Strovinsky has devoted his life outside of work and raising a family to volunteerism and organizing events to benefit the residents of Allentown Borough, Upper Freehold and other nearby communities.

Rob Strovinsky A partial list of his contributions reveals a life dedicated to helping others. In addition to his leadership in the Allentown Lions Club and coaching, Strovinsky was Allentown Boy Scout commissioner and served three terms as a borough councilman, where he served on many municipal committees and acted as liaison for several commissions.

He is well known for lending a hand to neighbors and helping other organizations with their charitable enterprises.

Memorial Day Parade Chair Steve Stein emphasized how proud the club was to honor Strovinsky as this year’s grand marshal.

“Rob embodies completely the ideals of Lionism,” Stein said. “His dedication to this community for more than 30 years is exceptional and is absolutely deserving of this high honor. Besides taking on the role of club president twice, Rob has served in many other offices within the organization and has been instrumental in chairing beloved events like the Memorial Day Parade, the Harvest Festival Craft Beer Garden Fundraiser, the annual Lions Easter Egg Hunt, to name only a few. His tireless leadership as a borough councilman, as a community organizer, as a Boy Scout leader, and as a champion to improve his community, make Lion Rob Strovinsky the perfect candidate for this year’s grand marshal.”

Strovinsky thanked the Parade Committee and the club members for granting him the honor.

“Lisa and I decided early on that we

would be involved in the community,” Strovinsky said. “Allentown is a special place with so many great volunteers it’s almost hard to not find a way to pitch in.

I have enjoyed my time as a Lion and in other roles that I have taken on. I have always felt that it is really gratifying and worthwhile to give back if you’re able to.

Considering the long, truly impressive list of our previous parade grand marshals, I am both humbled and proud to be the club’s choice this year.”

Lisa and Rob Strovinsky raised their two children, Ben and Ava, who also were involved in serving Allentown and Upper Freehold, on Main Street in the historic borough.

The Allentown Lions Club Memorial Day Parade stepped off from the corner of Allen and Main streets on Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m., marched through town over the mill pond bridge and turned left up High Street before finishing at the Allentown-Upper Freehold Elementary School.

The Memorial Day Service for the Gallant Fallen was held at the memorial site in the upper elementary school parking lot immediately following the parade.

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Crowds line Main Street for Memorial Day tribute

Top left: Grand Marshal Robert Strovinsky is recognized by Lions Club member Steve Stein following the parade. Top right: Allentown Lions President Chuck Tkachuk and Lions Club member Doug Both, past district governor.

Bottom left: Marching with the Girl Scouts are Juliette Alday and her mom, Kristen. She is a member of Brownie Troop 74168.

Bottom right: Marching with the Allentown Upper Freehold Baseball & Softball League Enjoying the Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 25, are Allentown Mayor Thomas are Ashton Finn and his dad, Brian. (Photos by Amanda Ruch.)

Fritts (left), Upper Freehold Planning Board member Michael McGuire, who is running unopposed for the Township Committee seat held by Robert Frascella, Upper Freehold Township Committee member Stephen Alexander, and Deputy Mayor AnthonyNo Garaguso.

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New trees through school grant a breath of fresh air

By R.H. Schmitt Jr.

More than 140 brand-new “large caliper” shade trees native to New Jersey have been planted throughout the Upper Freehold Regional School District through a $117,000 NJDEP Trees for Schools grant administered by Sustainable Jersey.

School and state officials said the trees will provide shade as they grow and mature, help improve air quality, enhance the environment and have positive impacts on mental health.

“These new trees, as they grow, will expand the canopy, and enhance the learning environment for our students, our faculty and staff as well as our parents and the community at large,” Superintendent Mark

Guterl said.

Through the grant, 2.5-inch-caliper native shade trees were planted this spring across all district campuses. Some 120 of the trees now adorn the grounds of Stone Bridge Middle School, a campus that both shade tree and school officials agreed needed more shade and attractive landscaping. An additional 20 trees now grow at Allentown High School and Allentown Elementary School, Guterl said.

Terry Brown, chair of the Allentown Shade Tree Commission, praised one of the key elements of the project.

“Water,” Brown said, gesturing out to the new additions. “The grant provides two full years of professional maintenance and watering,” Brown said. “The funding

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for this endeavor includes the purchase of 500-gallon water tanks placed on a truck for mobility.”

Brown said he has seen new tree plantings fail because of lack of water.

“I am particularly happy with the design, and, just as importantly, the planned maintenance of these new beneficial plantings,” Brown said.

Guterl, along with UFRSD Building and Grounds Supervisor Tom Buffa, who also is acting as borough Department of Public Works superintendent, and UFRSD Assistant Superintendent for Business Nicole Petrone, applied for the grant earlier this year.

The superintendent praised the work of Buffa and Petrone, as well as Taylor Sapudar, a professional arborist and licensed landscape designer who lives in the historic village.

“We obviously could not have accomplished this project without Taylor’s knowledge,” Guterl said. “Of course, Tom Buffa and Nicole Petrone and I worked closely together in preparing the district’s grant application and coordinating the project on behalf of our Board of Education.”

Buffa said the grant process required strict attention to detail and professional expertise. After the grant was awarded, the district needed a licensed landscape designer to finalize the project, help secure the funding and put the money to proper use, Buffa said.

“All of this was put into action after I met with Terry Brown and Lisa Strovinsky of the Allentown Borough Shade Tree Commission,” Buffa said.

“Our original professional basically fell through, and with the help of Shade Tree, we found Taylor and he went right to work

creating our specific plan through a professional arborist’s eyes,” Buffa said.

Allentown Borough Council President and Shade Tree Commission liaison John Elder said the project shows the value of cooperation between the school district and borough.

“This massive undertaking of tree planting at Stonebridge campus and elsewhere in the district highlights the powerful collaboration between the Upper Freehold Regional School District (UFRSD) and the Borough of Allentown,” Elder said.

“These new trees are a vital investment in preserving our local environment and ensuring cleaner air for our community,” Elder said.

Brown also noted that planting and maintaining trees and green spaces goes back to early American colonial roots.

The Shade Tree Commission has already planted Allentown’s own “Liberty Tree” in Heritage Park.

“It’s modeled after the famous Liberty Tree in Boston where the Patriots met and sometimes quietly planned a revolution to break free from the brutal grip of the crown,” Brown said.

Brown said Patriots posted notices, organized meetings and passed messages beneath the tree, “an early form of social media.” He said the tree irritated King George so much that he ordered it to be cut down.

“The result was that all 13 of our original colonies planted Liberty Trees of their own in the spirit of rebellion,” Brown said. “Now Historic Allentown has one of its own.”

A ceremony and the placement of a patriotic plaque are scheduled for June, Brown said.

UFRSD Schools Superintendent Mark Guterl; Allentown Borough Council President and Shade Tree Liaison John Elder, Borough Shade Tree Commission Chair Terry Brown, UFRSD Assistant Superintendent for Business Nicole Petrone and UFRSD Building and Grounds Supervisor/Allentown Borough DPW Superintendent Tom Buffa.

Ivy on Main blooms with flowers, gifts and events

By Bill Sanservino and Ellie Harris

Step inside Ivy on Main and it quickly becomes clear that the shop is more than a place to buy flowers.

Part floral studio, part boutique and part gathering place, Ivy on Main was built by Angela D’Andrea and Toni Perilli from a shared love of flowers, a leap away from corporate careers and a belief that floral design could become something deeply personal for local families.

What began in D’Andrea’s garage after the birth of her twins in 2014 has grown into a floral studio and boutique with locations in Allentown and Hamilton. Ivy on Main now offers wedding and event flowers, local floral delivery, sympathy arrangements, curated gifts, clothing, workshops and holiday decor.

D’Andrea spent about 10 years in legal operations at Bristol-Myers Squibb before deciding not to return to her corporate job after having her twins. She had always enjoyed creating flowers for family parties and small gatherings. She started the business in her garage and it began to grow from there.

Perilli had a similar path. She worked in

Angela D’Andrea, Toni Perilli and Kari Lee stand inside Ivy on Main, the Allentown floral studio and boutique that has grown from a garage startup into a two-location business with a second shop in Hamilton. (Staff photo by Bill Sanservino.) surgical device sales, including time with work. When D’Andrea needed help with a Johnson & Johnson, while also doing flo- wedding, Perilli joined her in the garage.

“Angela was getting really busy working ral work on the side. She had taken floral design classes and enjoyed the creative in her garage, and I thought it’d be cool to

Ivy on Main is a boutique offering curated flowers, clothing, and thoughtful gifts - all in one inviting space.

see how it would be to set up a wedding.

She needed an extra set of hands, and after that I never stopped going to the garage.

We have worked together pretty much every day since then,” Perilli said.

The two Allentown residents were acquaintances before becoming business partners. Their shared work ethic, creative instincts and background in demanding corporate fields helped shape Ivy on Main into a business known for both design and service.

The business operated for a short time from a small office in town, mainly to meet brides and clients. In 2018, Ivy on Main moved into the second floor of The Old Mill, a space that gave D’Andrea and Perilli more exposure and room to hold workshops.

“It was perfect for us,” D’Andrea said.

They later expanded into a first-floor space at The Mill. Shortly after that move, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing the young business to rethink its model almost overnight. Weddings were canceled or rescheduled, and the duo had to find new ways to keep serving customers. That difficult period became a turning point.

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IVY ON MAINcontinued from Page 15 “When COVID hit, all of our weddings were canceled or were rescheduled,” D’Andrea said. “We had nothing coming in, but we still had to do things like pay the rent, other expenses, and pay ourselves.”

They pivoted and began offering wreaths, hand towels, candles, flowers for pickup and delivery, and virtual wreathmaking and floral-arranging workshops.

Customers from Allentown, Cream Ridge, Millstone and surrounding communities responded quickly, helping the business survive while in-person events were on hold.

The pandemic also pushed Ivy on Main to build its website and expand its boutique offerings. What started as a floral business became a more complete shopping destination, with gifts, clothing, candles, soaps, skin care items and curated gift boxes or baskets that can be paired with flowers.

“We were very fortunate to have such a great community,” D’Andrea said.

Company vice president Kari Lee joined Ivy on Main just before the pandemic and helped the business expand its services.

Lee, who grew up in Allentown and now lives in Chesterfield, brought years of floral experience to the shop.

“I started doing flowers when I was in high school,” Lee said. “I went to Allentown High School and then I joined the horticul-

A selection of gifts, candles, home items and boutique merchandise is displayed inside Ivy on Main’s Allentown shop. (Staff photo by Bill Sanservino.) ture programs there and loved it. Started working in our local florist in town when I was 16.”

Lee said Ivy on Main has changed significantly since she joined the business.

“Ivy has come a really long way,” Lee said. “We do a ton of weddings, a ton of par-

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ties and lots of events. It’s more full service than when we started.”

The business has also expanded to a second location.

In addition to its Main Street shop in Allentown, Ivy on Main opened a second store on Route 33 in Hamilton, where D’Andrea and Perilli both grew up. The Hamilton shop has been open for about three years.

“Hamilton’s a different vibe, but I feel like we are building there with people,” Lee said.

Ivy on Main serves customers across a wide range of occasions.

“We also do installations for businesses.

On the inside,” Perilli said. “For example, you walk into a restaurant, and they want to do something with a wall that’s plain and boring them. We do a lot of that, like holiday decorating for businesses and homes.”

Weddings remain a central part of the business. Ivy on Main has become a preferred floral vendor for local venues, such as Jasna Polana in Princeton, and they continue to work closely with brides and families planning major celebrations.

May, June and July are especially busy, with prom, wedding, graduation and communion season all overlapping.

“But we really don’t have any downtime,” D’Andrea said. “But now we have been busy since this is prom, wedding, and communion season.”

Many customers come to Ivy on Main for one milestone and return for others, from proms and weddings to baby showers and sympathy arrangements.

“I feel like we create a lot of relationships in this business,” Lee said. “There are so many different brides that we talk to throughout a year’s time.”

Ivy on Main also handles online and out -of-town orders, often from people in other states sending flowers to loved ones in the area. Even when orders are placed online, the staff often follows up by phone or email to confirm details and make sure the order is right.

That human connection is part of what makes the business different from larger online flower services. Ivy on Main emphasizes personal attention, local knowledge and relationships built over time.

“Our biggest compliment is a positive Google review, because we are such a local, organic business,” Perilli said.

Its community role extends beyond the shops. The business donates to local causes, schools and sports programs, but its most important nonprofit partnership is with Miracle League, a baseball league for children and adults with physical and mental disabilities.

“Miracle League is a huge part of our lives, we’re there often, we work on events there,” D’Andrea said.

The Allentown location also includes a separate bookstore — Friends to Bookends — operated by local school moms who wanted to open their own business.

D’Andrea, Perilli and Lee made room for the bookstore inside Ivy on Main, creating a partnership that adds another community-focused element to the shop.

“They thought about being in Allentown and of course we wanted them here,” D’Andrea said. “We kind of said, ‘we’ll make room for you guys to try it out and see what how it goes.’ It’s been amazing, and it has been a great partnership.”

Workshops also remain part of Ivy on Main’s business, especially during the holidays.

“One of the most popular things that we’ve done throughout the years for workshops is wreath-making,” Lee said.

For customers, Ivy on Main has become more than a flower shop. From a garage startup to two local storefronts, the business has grown through creativity, resilience and community support, offering flowers, gifts, workshops, custom wreaths, business decorating, weddings and personal pieces for some of life’s major moments.

D’Andrea, Perilli and Lee said they continue to focus on the work that built the business: creativity, service and the personal relationships that keep customers coming back.

Ivy on Main’s Allentown and Hamilton shops are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Riley Daly enjoyed a standout senior softball season for Allentown High, leading the Colonial Valley Conference in RBIs and helping guide the Redbirds to the CVC Tournament championship game.

By Rich Fisher

All Riley Daly wanted was a stable, comfortable environment in which to play softball.

She thought she had it as a sophomore, then it went away. But it returned this season and has allowed the Allentown High senior to show exactly what she’s capable of.

A catcher/outfielder by trade, Daly was the Redbirds main shortstop this season but it never affected her hitting.

Entering the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group II Tournament, she led the Colonial Valley Conference in RBI with 35, was second in hits (40, two behind teammate Angelina Minerva), fourth in hitting (.506) and seventh in OPS (1.252).

“Outstanding person and outstanding player,” coach Rich Dawson said. “Just an intense kid who has a passion for the game. Too much of a passion because she hurts when she fails. She doesn’t understand you’re gonna fail 70 percent of the time in this game.

“But she’s so intense and she’s such

a good player. She’ll have a great career when she goes to Rhode Island. She does her homework. She studies film on the pitchers. She spends a lot of time in the cages. She’s always the last one out of the cages. She’s just driven to succeed.”

Part of that success is due to Dawson, whose guidance has had a positive impact on one of his star players.

As a freshman, Daly attended Notre Dame with hopes of being part of the Irish’s powerhouse team. She got just 10 at-bats, however, and was dismayed at the lack of playing time. Especially since those at-bats produced a .300 average with two doubles and three RBI. “I made a lot of great friendships there,” Daly said. “It was a hard decision to transfer back to Allentown, but ultimately it came down to playing time. I got to play with some very athletic girls but I was sad how that season turned out.”

When the Millstone resident came to the Redbirds, Dawson was the coach and he saw a dejected player who he knew could flourish.

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“Last year we had a different coach and even though I was so much better as a player. I didn’t have any real guidance; and it was very unstable to me,” Daly said. “Especially because I loved having coach Dawson as a coach. I’m a very loyal person. I play for my team and I play for my coaches.”

Dawson returned this year and the results have been noticeable in Daly’s production. She not only praised the head man, but assistants Dave Boehm, the former Robbinsville coach, and Don Elwell.

“Coach B is amazing,” Daly said. “And coach Don, he’s the best. It’s my coaches and teammates that made the difference.

I love this team; I love these girls. This is a great group of people and they are the ones who helped me to succeed.

“I try to compete; I love the sport. It

YEARS

DALY continued from Page 17 “She was kind of demoralized because they didn’t play her at Notre Dame but I recognized right away ‘This kid can play,’ so I inserted her right away,” the coach recalled. “Her and I have similar personalities, we’re very intense. We clash but we get along very well. And her sophomore year she took off from there. I could see it in her.”

Daly had a solid 10th-grade season, hitting .353 with four home runs, four doubles, a triple and 22 RBI. “I’m a big fan of coach Dawson,” she said. “After I transferred he really saved me mentally. When I was a sophomore I wasn’t anything special. I wanted to play for him and play for my teammates.”

But Dawson left last season and Daly’s average dropped to .323. She had five home runs but just 13 RBI.

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comes pretty easy and when you have She had been emailing the former and people around you who care about you current coaching staff in hopes of getting and love you and you love them back it a look, but got no response.

Last summer the Lady Dukes were does make it so much easier. ” As for her approach at the plate, it’s playing a tournament at Armstrong Park in Ewing. Rams head coach Mike Coutts pure simplicity.

“I’m just trying to hit the ball,” she informed the staff he was looking for said. “Trying to hit it hard . . . as hard as a utility catcher and Michelle Kensler motioned to Daly and said “She’s right I can.”

Her RBI total – which as of May 21 had there.”

Coutts and Daly touched base and a equaled the combined amount of her first two years at AHS – can be attributed to week later, while at a travel tournament batting higher in the lineup and having in Massachusetts, she visited URI and immediately fell in love.

Angelina Minerva and It took one day for her Kelsey Loughlin hitting to accept Coutts scholarahead of her. The two ‘I’m a very loyal ship offer. were constantly on base “It’s pretty funny,” and scored a combined person. I play Daly said. “I travel all 69 runs through the Redfor my team over the East Coast to birds 18-6 start. get recruited, and it hap“In previous years I’ve and I play for pens thirty minutes from batted a little bit lower my coaches.’ home.” in the lineup and all the Coutts was impressed runs were already driven

by Daly’s aggressiveness in,” Daly said. “And last at the plate and also liked year I got walked a lot her catching ability. He so I didn’t have those became even more excited when Riley opportunities.

“This year I’m in a lot more situations. told him she played shortstop for the Angelina and Kelsey are always get- Redbirds all season.

“He recruited me as a catcher and outting on base. I definitely have a lot more opportunities. I’ve always wanted to put field would be a secondary thing, and I love the ball in play somewhere where I can the outfield,” she said. “When I told him I was playing shortstop he was like ‘Oh my drive in those runs.”

Daly’s desire to succeed is not lost on God, really?’ Their coaching staff is all for a player being versatile. They’re never going her teammates, according to Dawson.

“They all respect her,” the coach said. to limit someone to one thing.”

Daly was moved from catcher to short“I want them to have the same passion she has. But they follow her without even stop by Dawson only because that gave the Redbirds their strongest defense. asking.”

Daly has been following her own soft- The coach praised her play calling, sayball dream since age 5 in T-ball. She ing “When she calls the game she’s very began travel ball with the Jackson Wild- mentally aware of the kind of game she cats at 9 years old, and got some impor- wants to call.”

Sadly for Daly, the same field on which tant schooling from her head coach, she was recruited was also the site of one Cory Hersh.

“I have to give all the credit to my first of her biggest disappointments, as Allentravel coach, he was always saying ‘If you town lost a 3-2 decision to Steinert in the can play a variety of positions that’s very Colonial Valley Conference Tournament valuable,’” Daly said. “I literally played all championship game.

But she and her teammates put it in positions besides pitcher. He just taught me the game. It comes very easy for me perspective as they prepared for the state now to play a position like shortstop that I tournament.

“I’m very proud of what we did,” she haven’t played before on travel because I know the routine of how things are done. said. We were just talking on the bus ride home. If we knew we were gonna be 18-6 That’s why I can be successful there.”

She went from Jackson to the presti- and lose to all good teams and make it to gious Lady Dukes and was coached by the CVC championship and lose by one, former Virginia Tech standout Lauren that’s pretty awesome.”

Almost as awesome as Daly’s decision Gaskill. Daly credited Gaskill and assistants Michelle and Matt Kensler for get- to return to her hometown public school.

“I’m so happy,” she said. “I love Allenting her recruited.

“Those three coaches have a lot of con- town, I love the culture with all the girls. I nections,” she said. “I wasn’t getting the love the school; I love the teachers. I’m so exposure before that. Those three are happy I transferred here. It was the right decision. Everything happens for a reathe reason why I’m committed.”

Her recruitment to the University of son, I believe it. I’m so grateful I’ve gotten Rhode Island is somewhat humorous. this experience to be on this team.”

HAPPENING What’s Happening is a selection of events taking place this month in our area. For even more events, go online to our website, communitynews.org/events.

Details below were believed to be accurate at time of publication. We always recommend that you confirm all necessary details when planning to attend an event.

meeting covering resolutions, ordinances, municipal business and public participation. uftnj.com.

activities in the borough. allentownboronj.com.

Awesome 80s Night, Laurita Winery, New Egypt, 7 to 11 p.m. Dance party built around 1980s music, retro fashion and throwback entertainment. Guests are encouraged to dress for the theme and spend the evening dancing at the winery. Tickets are listed at $11 online or $13 at the door. lauritawinery.com.

Thursday Tile Talk, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. 10 a.m. For players of all levels with a basic understanding of American Mah Jongg game play using the most recent National Mah Jongg League card and rules. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Tuesday, June 2

Craig Ferguson: Pants on Fire, Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, 7:30 p.m. CoDisney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical, median Craig Ferguson brings his “Pants on Fire” Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, tour to the Basie Center’s main theater. The show 7 p.m. Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the adds a major comedy listing to the early June reArts presents a student production of Disney’s gional entertainment calendar. thebasie.org.

Frozen the Broadway Musical. The production Open Mic Comedy Night, Basie Center Cinbrings the popular stage adaptation to the Basie campus and offers a strong family-friendly per- ema House, Red Bank, 7 p.m. The Basie Center forming arts item for the first week of June. the- hosts an open mic comedy night at its Cinema House venue. Tickets are listed at $5 at the door. Rocker David Lee Roth is at The Stone in basie.org.

Asbury Park on June 5. thebasie.org.

Wednesday, June 3

Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical, Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, 7 p.m. Second performance of the Count Basie Center Turner Academy of the Arts student production. The show features music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and continues the Basie’s early June family theater programming. thebasie.org Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk on the trails of Roebling Park. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.

Friday, June 5 Senior Committee Meeting, Allentown Bor-

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STEAM Explorers Workshop: Everything Skyscrapers, Mercer County Library Robbinsville.

6 p.m. Ages 6 and up learn the fundamentals of buildings. Presented by a local Girl Scout. mcl.org.

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Zen Coloring for Adults, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. 1:30 p.m. Coloring pages, colored pencils and markers provided. Ages 16 and up. mcl.org 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Environmental Commission Meeting, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 7 p.m. Borough commission meeting focused on environmental issues, local sustainability and related municipal matters. allentownboronj.com.

Township Committee Meeting, Upper Freehold Township Municipal Building, Upper Freehold, 7 to 9 p.m. To wnship governing body

Gary U.S. Bonds, The Vogel, Red Bank, 8 p.m.

Gary U.S. Bonds performs at The Vogel on the Basie Center campus. The event adds another ough Hall, Allentown, noon Regular meeting of major music listing to a busy June weekend in Red the Allentown Senior Committee, which organizes Bank. thebasie.org. and discusses senior programming, services and See EVENTS, Page 14

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Lego Club, Mercer County Library Robbinsville.

6 p.m. Children ages 5 and up, accompanied by an adult, are invited to come and build with Miss Cathy. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

.Thursday, June 4

David Lee Roth, The Stone Pony Summer Stage, Asbury Park, 6 to 10:30 p.m. A Night with David Lee Roth comes to the Stone Pony Summer Stage, with gates opening at 6 p.m. and showtime at 7 p.m. The listing also includes inside-stage programming before and after the Summer Stage show, making it a major shore concert entry for the first June weekend. stoneponyonline.com.

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Walnford, Upper Freehold, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Members of the Penn/Jersey Basket Weaving Saturday, June 6 Guild demonstrate basket weaving at Historic Recycle Center Open, Upper Freehold Town- Walnford. The free program gives visitors a ship Recycle Center, Upper Freehold, 7 a.m. to chance to see the craft practiced in a historic setnoon. The township recycle center is open for ting. monmouthcountyparks.com. resident drop-off during its scheduled Saturday Wind Instruments Unleashed, Mercer hours. uftnj.com.

County Library Robbinsville. 2:30 p.m. Explore National Trails Day Walk, Huber Woods the world of wind instruments with live perEnvironmental Center, Middletown, 10 to, 11:30 formances and demonstrations featuring local a.m. Free guided walk held as part of National middle school band students. Children in grades Trails Day, a countrywide celebration of park 3-5 accompanied by an adult, may see, listen and trails and the habitats they explore. Participants ask questions about the instruments. mcl.org. 42 should wear closed-toe footwear and dress for Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. the weather. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Silhouettes by Hand with Lauren Muney, National Trails Day Walk, Manasquan Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold, noon to 3:30 Reservoir Environmental Center, Howell, 10 to p.m. Lauren Muney of Silhouettes by Hand cuts 11:30 a.m. Free guided nature walk celebrating portraits freehand using only paper and scissors. park trails and outdoor recreation. The program Portraits are available on a first-come, firstis open to all ages, with those under 18 required served basis at this free event. monmouthcounto attend with an adult. monmouthcountyparks. typarks.com. com.

Mill Demonstration, Historic Walnford, UpDeep Cut Gardens Open House, Deep Cut per Freehold, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. See Gardens, Middletown, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors the 19th-century gristmill in action during short can enjoy the rose garden in bloom, learn about demonstrations offered throughout the afterthe bonsai collection, view the koi pond and ex- noon. Each demonstration lasts about 15 minutes plore greenhouse collections with guidance from and is free. monmouthcountyparks.com. an expert horticulturist. The event is free and Dairy Day, Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel, works as a strong family-friendly parks listing.

1 to 3 p.m. Learn about the role dairy cows play in monmouthcountyparks.com. farm life through cheesemaking, butter churning Basket Weaving Demonstration, Historic and ice cream making demonstrations. The pro-

EVENTS, continued from page 13

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20  The Messenger-Press | June 2026

gram is free and offers a family-friendly look at June weekend. stoneponyonline.com. historic farm work. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Jeffrey Gaines & Josh Joplin, The Vogel, Red Turnpike Troubadours, The Stone Pony Sum- Bank, 7 p.m. Jeffrey Gaines and Josh Joplin permer Stage, Asbury Park, 6 to 10:30 p.m. Turnpike form at The Vogel on the Basie Center campus.

Troubadours bring the Wild America Tour 2026 to The concert continues the venue’s early June run the Stone Pony Summer Stage with special guest of singer-songwriter and rock programming. theLucero. The show is a major shore concert listing basie.org. for the first Saturday in June. stoneponyonline.

Monday, June 8 com.

Willie Nile Birthday Bash, The Vogel, Red Bank, 7:30 p.m. Willie Nile celebrates his 78th birthday with a show spanning his 15-album, five-decade career. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and showtime is 7:30 p.m. thebasie.org.

Parks and Public Spaces Committee Meeting, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 7 p.m.

Borough committee meeting focused on parks, public spaces and related community issues. allentownboronj.com.

Abbott Day 3 Celebration: Friends and Family Fun, Tulpehaking Nature Center. Noon. Third annual birthday celebration of the life and times of Charles Conrad Abbott, whose archeological and naturalist endeavors resulted in the “Abbott Farm National Historic Landmark” and the “Abbott Marshlands” being named in his honor. First Saturday “In Abbott’s Footsteps” walk on Abbott Bluffs, 11 a.m. to noon. Noon to 12:30 p.m.: Welcome, Intro to Silent Auction, Birthday Party Cake and Ice Cream; 12:30–1 p.m.: Music, Imagination and Movement with Mr. Righteous Jolly; 1–1:30 p.m.: Face Painting by Mrs. Jolly and Abbott Costume Parade; 1:30-2 p.m.: Nature Scavenger Hunt. Also turtle time, fruit art, silent auction.

Register at abbottmarshlands.org. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.

Recycle Center Open — No Bulk, Upper Freehold Township Recycle Center, Upper Freehold, 7 a.m. to noon. The township recycle center is open for regular recycling drop-off, with no bulk items accepted during this session. uftnj.com.

The 54th New Jersey Irish Festival, Monmouth Park, Oceanport, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The annual festival returns to Monmouth Park with Irish culture, music, food, vendors and family activities. The event includes Irish step dancing, bagpipers and the famous Human Horse Race, making it one of the larger countywide recreational events of the month. monmouthpark. com.

Senior Chair Zumba, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 10:30 a.m. Senior Chair Zumba continues at Borough Hall with a low-impact class designed for all fitness levels. The program is hosted by the Allentown Seniors Committee and offers a way for residents to stay active through music, movement and community. allentownboronj.com.

Tuesday, June 9 Borough Council Meeting, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 6:30 p.m. The Allentown Borough Council meeting will include public hearings on several ordinances, including stormwater management updates, accessory dwelling units and grease trap installation and maintenance requirements. Residents may also comment on agenda items and general borough matters. allentownboronj.com.

Puzzle Drop-In, Allentown Library, Allentown, 6 to 8:45 p.m. Weekly puzzle program Sunday, June 7 where participants collaborate on a jigsaw puzzle Mill Demonstration, Historic Walnford, Up- in the library’s common area. The puzzle is reper Freehold, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. placed once solved, creating an ongoing low-key Historic Walnford offers another day of short social activity. monmouthcountylib.org. gristmill demonstrations. Visitors can see the Casual Birder at Fisherman’s Cove, Fisher19th-century mill in operation while exploring man’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan, 9 the surrounding historic property. monmoutha.m.

Join a Monmouth County Park System natcountyparks.com. uralist for a laid-back morning bird walk. The walk Music on the Porch, Historic Walnford, Upper lasts about 90 minutes, and a limited number of Freehold, 1 to 3 p.m. An acoustic duo performs binoculars are available to borrow. monmouthmusic on the porch at Historic Walnford. Visitors countyparks.com. can enjoy the performance while exploring the historic site. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Wednesday, June 10

Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Got the Moves, Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, 2 and 6 p.m. Sesame Street Live brings a family stage show to the Basie Center. The two-show schedule makes it a strong family entertainment listing for the first Sunday in June. thebasie.org.

Millstone Planning Board Meeting, Municipal Meeting Room, Millstone, 7:30 p.m. Planning board meeting reviewing zoning, development applications and land-use matters. millstonenj. gov.

Superb Summer Saunter at Freneau Woods Park, Freneau Woods Park Visitor CenBertha: Grateful Drag, The Stone Pony, As- ter, Aberdeen, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Explore the bury Park, 6 p.m. The Stone Pony hosts Bertha: trails at Freneau Woods Park with a Monmouth Grateful Drag as part of its June calendar. The County Park System naturalist. Participants meet event adds another shore music listing to the first in the visitor center parking lot for this free guided

10 p.m. AsburyFest opens its three-day run in the park across from Convention Hall, with food, drinks, craft vendors and music. Friday music includes James Dalton from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and The Unknowns from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Admission is free Friday, and the festival supports local nonprofit partners. asburyparkchamber.com.

walk. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Open Mic Poetry — Circles & Communities, Thompson Park Theatre Barn, Lincroft, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Participants may recite original poetry or read favorite works during this family-appropriate spoken-word event. Pre-registration is recommended for readers, and listeners are welcome. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Disney’s Aladdin KIDS, The Vogel, Red Bank, 7 p.m. Count Basie Center’s Turner Academy of the Arts presents Disney’s Aladdin KIDS at The Vogel. The student production gives the calendar another family-friendly theater listing in Red Bank. thebasie.org.

Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk on the trails of Roebling Park. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton.

Thursday, June 11 Thursday Tile Talk, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. 10 a.m. For players of all levels with a basic understanding of American Mah Jongg game play using the most recent National Mah Jongg League card and rules. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Adult Crafting Hour: Sea Glass Wind Chimes, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. 1:30 p.m.

Make wind chimes using polished sea glass, poly string, and embroidery hoops! Presented by Reference Librarian Jamie Clay. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Aging with Dignity: Five Wishes for Advance Care Planning, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. 6:30 p.m. Paul Knight, certified by nonprofit organization Aging With Dignity, discusses the benefits of Advance Care Planning, which involves discussing and documenting end-of-life healthcare preferences ahead of time. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

can improve archery skills during this open shoot program. This is not a beginner instructional class, and those new to archery are advised to register for an instructional class first. Equipment is provided, and the program is open to ages 10 and older, with minors accompanied by an adult. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Mill Demonstration, Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and, 3:30 p.m. VisAllentown Farmers Market, High Street itors can see the 19th-century gristmill in action upper elementary school parking lot, Allentown, during short demonstrations at Historic Waln9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The updated Allentown Farmers ford. Each demonstration lasts about 15 minutes Market continues its twice-monthly summer and offers a look at local milling history in one of schedule with fresh produce, food vendors, hand- Upper Freehold’s most important historic sites. made goods and family-friendly activity in its monmouthcountyparks.com. new High Street location across from Allentown Penny Rug Demonstration, Historic LongPresbyterian Church. The market is operated street Farm, Holmdel, 1 to 3 p.m. This demonby Katrina Carroll of D’Amico Farms and Gaby stration shows how scraps of wool or felted wool Rosenblum of CentralGab, with a larger vendor from old clothing were used to create mats and layout designed to draw visitors into town and rugs. The program offers a hands-on look at hissupport local farms, small businesses and comtoric household craft traditions at the farm. monmunity organizations. allentownboronj.com. mouthcountyparks.com.

Open Swim at the Fort, Fort Monmouth RecBoat Tours of the Manasquan Reservoir, reation Center, Tinton Falls, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ will be featured Manasquan Reservoir Visitor Center, Howell, 2, Fort Monmouth Recreation Center pool is open during a free outdoor movie night at Sgt. 3, 4 and, 5 p.m. These 45-minute boat tours are for public swim as part of the Monmouth County George Ashby Memorial Park in Allentown narrated by Monmouth County Park System natPark System’s summer schedule. Daily and seaon Saturday, June 13, at 8:15 p.m. uralists and include opportunities to view wildlife. son swim passes are available, and swimming is Tickets are purchased the day of the tour, and subject to weather and conditions. monmouthtours depend on weather and water levels. Life Friday, June 12 countyparks.com. jackets are required, and all tours leave from the Allentown movie night: Lilo & Stitch, Sgt. Open Shoot Archery, Thompson Park ActivGeorge Ashby Memorial Park, 8:15 p.m. The Al- ity Barn, Lincroft, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants See EVENTS, Page 14 lentown Recreation Commission, with support from UFRPTA, presents a free outdoor screening of “Lilo & Stitch.” Bring blankets and lawn chairs.

Swal Creamery Ice Cream will be on site, with cash preferred. Rain date is Sunday, June 14. The park is on Broad Street next to First Commerce Bank. allentownboronj.com.

Saturday, June 13

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Lunch & Learn with the Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, Allentown Borough Hall, Nature Lecture: Fireflies of Monmouth Allentown, noon Allentown’s senior programCounty, Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center, ming calendar lists this Lunch & Learn program Aberdeen, 7 to 8 p.m. A Monmouth County Park with Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey. The System naturalist discusses fireflies, including program fits the borough’s senior and commuhow to decode their signals and the biology and nity services calendar and should be useful for ecology behind their light displays. The free proresidents looking for daytime local programming. gram explains what fireflies are doing when they allentownboronj.com. light up yards and natural areas at night. monOpen Swim at the Fort, Fort Monmouth mouthcountyparks.com.

Recreation Center, Tinton Falls, 4 to 8 p.m. The Laurita Junior Idol Tryouts, Laurita Winery, Fort Monmouth Recreation Center pool is open New Egypt, 7 to 11 p.m. Young singers are invited for public swim during scheduled hours. Daily to try out for Laurita’s Junior Idol singing competiand season swim passes are available, and swimtion. The event gives performers a chance to disming is weather and conditions permitting. monplay their talent, with a $150 Visa card awarded mouthcountyparks.com. to the winner in each age group. The public may Concert in the Park: Sentimental Journey attend at no charge, and advance reservations Big Band, Thompson Park Theatre Barn, Lincroft, are not needed. lauritawinery.com.

7 to 8:30 p.m. Led by vocalist Altha Morton, Happy Together Tour, Hackensack Meridian Sentimental Journey Big Band performs classic Health Theatre, Red Bank, 7:30 p.m. The Happy 20th-century melodies with a patriotic theme.

Together Tour comes to the Basie Center’s main Visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs or blantheater with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and kets, food and soft drinks for the outdoor concert. showtime at 7:30 p.m. The concert gives the June Inclement weather moves the concert indoors. calendar a major regional music entry at one of monmouthcountyparks.com.

Monmouth County’s leading performance venAsburyFest, Bradley Park, Asbury Park, 5 to ues. thebasie.org.

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EVENTS, continued from page 13 Visitor Center. monmouthcountyparks.com.

Haskell Preview Day and Beach Tote Giveaway, Monmouth Park, Oceanport, noon to 5 p.m. Haskell Preview Day features five stakes races on the road to Haskell Day, with the first race at 12:30 p.m. Monmouth Park also offers a free beach tote giveaway to the first 5,000 paying fans. The event combines racing with a promotional giveaway and is a strong countywide recreational listing. monmouthpark.com.

AsburyFest, Bradley Park, Asbury Park, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The second day of AsburyFest includes food vendors, drinks, crafts and a full music schedule. Saturday performers include Stringbean, The Wright Trio, Kate & The Melonheads, The Wag and The DTS. The festival is held in the park across from Convention Hall and includes a $5 admission charge, with children 6 and under admitted free. asburyparkchamber.com.

the Basie Center campus, with doors at 6:30 p.m. and showtime at 7:30 p.m. The husband-and-wife duo of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter has earned Grammy, CMA and ACM recognition and is known for a powerful American roots sound. thebasie.org.

Juneteenth Freedom Day Ride, 1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, ride starts at 8:30, 9, 9:15 and 9:45 a.m. Let’s Cycle NJ and the Samuel McCoy III Scholarship Fund present a community cycling event with 75-, 50-, 35- and 10-mile ride options. Start times vary by distance, with the 75mile ride beginning at 8:30 a.m., the 50-mile ride at 9 a.m., the 35-mile ride at 9:15 a.m. and the 10mile novice ride at 9:45 a.m. Registration is $60, and online registration closes Friday, June 19, at 5 p.m. juneteenthridenj.com.

Sunday, June 21 Father’s Day at the Track, Monmouth Park, Oceanport, noon to 5 p.m. Monmouth Park hosts a Father’s Day outing built around a day at the races. The event encourages families to treat dads to a trackside afternoon and continue or start a Father’s Day tradition. monmouthpark.com.

Josh Groban & Jennifer Hudson, Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, 8 p.m. Josh Groban and Jennifer Hudson perform at the Count Basie Center’s Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre. Doors open at 7 p.m., with showtime at 8 The Breeders, Hackensack Meridian Health p.m. The concert is part of the Basie Center’s Centennial Gala programming and brings two major Charlie Zahm will perform American tunes at the Old Yellow Meeting House in Theatre, Red Bank, 7:30 p.m. The Breeders perCream Ridge on Sunday, June 14. form at the Basie Center’s main theater with vocal performers to Red Bank. thebasie.org. special guest Sean Solomon. Doors open at 6:30 foot Bandits and Run for Cover. The festival also structures and districts. allentownboronj.com.

Sunday, June 14 p.m., with showtime at 7:30 p.m. thebasie.org. highlights local nonprofit partners and welcomes Laurita Junior Idol Tryouts, Laurita Winery, Charlie Zahm Concert and Parsonage Open well-behaved leashed dogs. asburyparkchamber.

New Egypt, 7 to 11 p.m. Laurita Winery hosts an- Monday, June 22 House, Old Yellow Meeting House, Cream Ridge, com. other Junior Idol tryout night for young singers.

Learn About Insects, Mercer County Library 2 p.m. A special afternoon of history and music Performers can compete for prizes in age-group Robbinsville. 3 p.m. Children ages 5 and up learn begins with a rare opportunity to tour the his- Tuesday, June 16 categories, and the public may attend for free. about the insects that live in New Jersey streams. toric parsonage, which is not typically open to Historic Preservation Commission MeetThe event continues the winery’s June entertain- Presented by New Jersey Watershed Ambassathe public. Charlie Zahm returns to the Meeting dor Matthew Tunkel. 42 Robbinsville Allentown House at 3 p.m. for a concert featuring American ing, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 7 p.m. ment programming. lauritawinery.com.

The commission meets to review preservation Rd, Robbinsville. tunes, with light refreshments available. matters, community initiatives and historic dis- Friday, June 19 Borough Council Meeting, Allentown BorOpen Swim at the Fort, Fort Monmouth trict issues. The May 27 update notes that the D.O.A. Mysteries Presents High Tide Homi- ough Hall, Allentown, 6:30 p.m. Regular meeting Recreation Center, Tinton Falls, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. group’s next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, cide, Laurita Winery, New Egypt, 7:30 to 11 p.m. of borough officials addressing municipal busiPublic swim continues at the Fort Monmouth June 18. allentownboronj.com.

Laurita Winery hosts a ticketed murder mystery ness, ordinances, resolutions and public comRecreation Center pool. Daily and season swim 9/11 Day of Remembrance Committee event with a nautical theme. Guests join the ment. allentownboronj.com. passes are available, and hours are weather and Meeting, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, S.S. Mackerel for a staged three-hour cruise of conditions permitting. monmouthcountyparks.

7 p.m. Borough committee meeting related to comedy and mystery while working to solve the Tuesday, June 23 com. planning and coordination for Allentown’s 9/11 crime. The event combines live performance, auGalaxy Slime, Mercer County Library RobbinsMill Demonstration, Historic Walnford, Up- remembrance activities. allentownboronj.com. dience participation and winery entertainment. ville. 3 p.m. Ages 5 and up make galaxy slime. per Freehold, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and, 3:30 p.m. Hislauritawinery.com.

Bring a container to take slime home. 42 Robtoric Walnford offers another day of 19th-century Wednesday, June 17 binsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. gristmill demonstrations. Each short demonstraWednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Na- Saturday, June 20 tion shows the mill in operation and gives visitors ture Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk on the trails of Read to a Therapy Dog, Mercer County Li- Wednesday, June 24 a closer look at the site’s agricultural and indusRoebling Park. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. brary Robbinsville. 10 a.m. Ages 5 and up, Must Senior Chair Zumba, Allentown Borough trial history. monmouthcountyparks.com. register by calling (609) 259-2150. 42 Robbinsville Hall, Allentown, 10:30 a.m. Senior Chair Zumba Boat Tours of the Manasquan Reservoir, Thursday, June 18 Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. returns with another low-impact fitness class foManasquan Reservoir Visitor Center, Howell, Thursday Tile Talk, Mercer County Library Faerie and Magical Mystical Creatures cused on movement, music and community. The 2, 3, 4 and, 5 p.m. Park System naturalists lead Robbinsville. 10 a.m. For players of all levels with Day, Natural Alternatives Center, Allentown, class is open to residents from Allentown and sur45-minute narrated tours of the reservoir, with a basic understanding of American Mah Jongg Participants are invited to take part in a themed rounding communities, with advance registration opportunities to see local wildlife. Tickets are pur- game play using the most recent National Mah community event celebrating faeries and mag- requested. allentownboronj.com. chased the day of the tour, and the schedule de- Jongg League card and rules. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsical mystical creatures. Vendors or participants Bubble Show, Mercer County Library Robpends on weather and water levels. monmouth- ville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville. should RSVP to Dr. Stephanie at naturalalternabinsville. 6:30 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Bubbles in countyparks.com.

Historic Preservation Commission Meet- tivescenter@gmail.com by May 29 and provide all shapes and sizes. Outdoors; bring blankets or AsburyFest, Bradley Park, Asbury Park, 11 ing, Allentown Borough Hall, Allentown, 7 p.m. details on what they will be offering. Rain date is chairs. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsa.m. to 6 p.m. AsburyFest concludes with food, Borough commission meeting focused on his- Sunday, June 21, at 2 p.m. ville. drinks, crafts and live music in Bradley Park. toric preservation matters, including the protecThe War & Treaty, The Vogel, Red Bank, 7:30 Millstone Planning Board Meeting, MuniciSunday’s music lineup includes Sketches, Bare- tion and review of historically significant local p.m. The War & Treaty performs at The Vogel on

22  The Messenger-Press | June 2026

pal Meeting Room, Millstone, 7:30 p.m. Planning West Windsor. board meeting reviewing zoning, development Spirit of Monmouth Fest, Downtown Freeapplications and land-use matters. millstonenj. hold, Freehold. Downtown Freehold has listed the gov.

Spirit of Monmouth Fest for June 27, 2026, with Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Na- food vendors and food trucks tied to the event. ture Center. 10 a.m. Easy walk on the trails of The listing frames the festival around the theme “Where Freedom Stood,” making it a strong reRoebling Park. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. gional history and community festival candidate.

Thursday, June 25 Exact public event hours still need final confirmaThursday Tile Talk, Mercer County Library tion before print. downtownfreehold.com.

Robbinsville. 10 a.m. For players of all levels with a basic understanding of American Mah Jongg game play using the most recent National Mah Jongg League card and rules. mcl.org. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Kids Fishing Tournament, Sensi Park and Conine’s Millpond, Allentown, 8 to 11 a.m. The Allentown Lions Club hosts its annual kids fishing tournament, a free community event with both a Shore Division and Boat Division. The tournaLego Club, Mercer County Library Robbinsville. ment is designed as a morning of fishing, family 2:30 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Build with Miss Cathy. time and community activity at the park and millpond. allentownlionsclub.com.

42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Robbinsville.

Laurita Junior Idol Semi-Final, Laurita Winery, New Egypt, 7 to 11 p.m. Young singers perform in the semi-final round of Laurita’s Junior Idol competition. The event gives contestants a chance to display their talent, with a $150 Visa card awarded to the winner in each age group.

The public may attend at no charge, and advance reservations are not needed. lauritawinery.com.

Sunday, June 28

tures a double-headliner format. lauritawinery. com.

Monday, June 29

L.E.A.D. Fest, Mercer County Park Festival Grounds. 5 to 10 p.m. Live music by Ernie White and the Trenton Legends, 7 p.m. Fireworks after dark. theleadfest.com. 1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

The Church, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7 p.m. The Church performs at The Stone Pony, Friday, June 26 adding a late-month shore concert to the June L.E.A.D. Fest, Mercer County Park Festival calendar. The event gives readers another conGrounds. 5 to 10 p.m. Live music by Ernie White firmed Asbury Park music option at one of the and the Trenton Legends, 7 p.m. Fireworks after Shore’s best-known venues. stoneponyonline. dark. theleadfest.com. 1638 Old Trenton Road, com.

West Windsor.

Yacht Rock Gold Experience, Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank, 7 p.m. Yacht Kricket Comedy, Laurita Winery, New Egypt, Rock Gold Experience performs at the Count 7 to 9 p.m. Kricket Comedy returns to Laurita Winery for a ticketed comedy night. Doors open Basie Center with special guests Elliott Lurie and at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. The Peter Beckett. Doors open at 6 p.m., with showevent is limited to guests 21 and older and fea- time at 7 p.m. thebasie.org.

L.E.A.D. Fest, Mercer County Park Festival Grounds. 5 to 10 p.m. Live music by Ernie White Allentown Farmers Market, High Street up- and the Trenton Legends, 7 p.m. Fireworks after per elementary sch ool parking lot, Allentown, dark. theleadfest.com. 1638 Old Trenton Road, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The updated Allentown Farmers West Windsor.

Market continues its twice-monthly summer Chair Zumba, Allentown Borough Hall, Alschedule with fresh produce, food vendors, hand- lentown. Low-impact senior fitness class using made goods and family-friendly activity in its seated and standing exercises designed to imnew High Street location across from Allentown prove flexibility, coordination and balance. The Presbyterian Church. The market is operated program also provides a regular social activity for

by Katrina Carroll of D’Amico Farms and Gaby seniors. allentownboronj.com.

Rosenblum of CentralGab, with a larger vendor layout designed to draw visitors into town and Tuesday, June 30 support local farms, small businesses and comL.E.A.D. Fest, Mercer County Park Festival munity organizations. allentownboronj.com.

Grounds. 5 to 10 p.m. Live music by Ernie White Read to a Therapy Cat, Mercer County Li- and the Trenton Legends, 7 p.m. Fireworks after brary Robbinsville. 10 a.m. Ages 5 and up. Call dark. theleadfest.com. 1638 Old Trenton Road, the library at (609) 259-2150 to register for a 15 West Windsor. minute session. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Rd, Millstone Township Committee Meeting, Robbinsville.

Millstone Township Municipal Building, MillL.E.A.D. Fest, Mercer County Park Festival stone, 8 p.m. Regular township governing body Grounds. 5 to 10 p.m. Live music by Ernie White meeting addressing ordinances, municipal operand the Trenton Legends, 7 p.m. Fireworks after ations and community matters with opportunity dark. theleadfest.com. 1638 Old Trenton Road, for public comment. millstonenj.gov.

SPRINGSIDE LOFTS & SPRINGSIDE LOFTS 55+

The community offers two distinct living options – Springside Lofts and Springside Lofts 55+ – both thoughtfully designed for lowmaintenance living in Robbinsville, NJ. Enjoy a prime location near top-rated schools, dining, shopping, recreation, and cultural attractions with an easy commute. Just 8 miles for Princeton Junction and Hamilton train stations and 11 miles from downtown Princeton.

• 1-2 bedrooms, 1-2 baths, some with dens • Spacious layouts from 849 to 1,454 sq.ft • Private balconies or patios • Elevator building for easy access

Saturday, June 27

The purpose of this advertisement is to solicit non-binding reservations. The non-binding reservation is not a contract and may be cancelled by the prospective purchaser at any time. Any money paid to the developer shall be refunded to the prospective purchaser upon request and cancellation of the non-binding reservation. The actual sales price for each specific Home will be based upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, the location and dimensions of the Home, and the specific choices made by each purchaser for interior finishes. Illustration is an artist rendering. ©2026 Sharbell Gordon LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

June 2026 | The Messenger-Press23

Celebrating the extraordinary Class of 2026 and the 2025-’26 school year Ohio State, the University of Miami, Clemson and many more. From the academic rigor of Lehigh University to SUPERINTENDENT’S CORNER the specialized programs at innovative institutions nationwide, the Class of 2026 has opened doors to amazing Celebrating the Extraordinary Class of possibilities.

2026 and the 2025-2026 school year These acceptances reflect more than As the sun sets on another remarkable just high test scores or impressive grade academic year in the Upper Freehold point averages; they represent hours of Regional School District (UFRSD), I am community service, creative problemfilled with immense pride reflecting on solving, and a deep-seated passion for the growth, resilience, and triumphs learning. Whether they are pursuing of our students. June is traditionally a engineering, the humanities, business, time of transition, an emotional moment or the arts, our seniors are poised to where we look back at the memories we make a profound impact on the waiting have created and look forward to the world. bright futures awaiting our graduates.

To the Class of 2026: you have left a This year, the collective achievements top-tier specialized colleges. of college acceptances earned by the lasting mark on Allentown High School of our student body have reached Our seniors have earned admission Allentown High School Class of 2026. and the Upper Freehold Regional School unprecedented heights, serving as a District. You navigated challenges powerful testament to the excellence that This milestone is not achieved overnight; to some of the nation’s most competitive institutions. Locally and it is the culmination of a with grace, lifted each other up, and defines the entire UFRSD community. regionally, our presence thirteen-year educational set a standard of excellence for future Throughout the 2025–2026 school will be strongly felt at journey through the generations to emulate. year, our classrooms, athletic fields, and This year, flagship universities such UFRSD and Millstone As you step out of our AHS hallways performance spaces have been alive as Rutgers University, and into the military, trade schools or with energy and spirit. We have watched Township Schools the collective The College of New supported by our these incredible institutions of higher our students grow tremendously—not achievements Jersey (TCNJ), Penn passionate and talented learning, carry the values of our just academically, but as great people, State University, and educators, dedicated community with you. Remain curious, innovative thinkers, and collaborative of our student Monmouth University. administrators, and stay kind, and never forget where your leaders. body have Our students will also a fiercely supportive journey began.

From visual arts showcases to the be welcomed to historic community.

To our faculty, staff, and parents: thank stage to the robotics arena to the reached institutions like Notre Our graduates have you for your unwavering partnership. classrooms to athletic seasons defined unprecedented Dame, Duke, William & This banner year belongs to all of us. proven that a foundation by grit and sportsmanship, our students Mary, Boston University, Together, we continue to prove that when built in Upper Freehold have poured their hearts into every heights.

New York University Regional prepares them to we invest in our children’s potential, endeavor. These shared experiences (NYU), and Villanova compete and thrive on the there is absolutely no limit to what they form the bedrock of the lifelong University. can achieve. Congratulations to all on a memories our community will cherish for global stage. This year’s Furthermore, our graduates are acceptance graphic resembles a vibrant magnificent school year! Carpe Diem! years to come. spreading their wings across the country, mosaic of higher education excellence, Nowhere is the dedication of our securing spots at powerhouse institutions Mark Guterl is superintendet of the Upper spanning prestigious public research students, families, and staff more institutions, elite private universities, and including, the University of Maryland, visible than in the spectacular array Freehold Regional School Disrrict,

Mark Guterl

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▪ AMANDA’S LATIN CUISINE ▪ DRAGON BOWL LLC ▪ Ma & Pa Tex-Mex BBQ ▪ Soul Bruthas ▪ Black Perle Haitian Cuisine ▪ FRANK’s ITALIAN ICEs ▪ Mamma Rosa’s ▪ SQUeeze & Bean, Co LATIN CUISINE ▪DRAGON BOWL LLC Bruthas ▪Ma & Pa Tex-Mex BBQ ▪Soul ▪ Buzzetta’s festival Foods▪AMANDA’S ▪ FRESH KITCHEN ▪ Stevie’s Devin ▪ MAZZA FINE FOODS ▪Black Perle Haitian Cuisine ▪FRANK’s ITALIAN ICEs ▪SQUeeze & Bean, Co ▪Mamma Rosa’s ▪ Cha-YEN ▪ HARRY‘s LIL KITCHEN ▪ THE LITTLE SicilLian ▪ Mister Softee ▪Buzzetta’s festival Foods ▪FRESH KITCHEN ▪Stevie’s FINE FOODS ▪ CHEF J’S LATIN DRAGON ▪ HOT DIGGY DOGS ▪ THE SWEET STOPDevin ▪ pop fizz craft▪MAZZA sodas ▪Cha-YEN ▪HARRY‘s LIL KITCHEN ▪THE LITTLE SicilLian ▪Mister Softee ▪ Coastal Flavors ▪ JERSEY PICKLES ▪ tript food ▪ Rolling Kusina ▪CHEF J’S LATIN DRAGON ▪HOT DIGGY DOGS ▪THE SWEET STOP ▪pop fizz craft sodas ▪ DAN’s WAFFLES ▪ K.K. Sweets ▪ SCRUMPS & YUM YUM ▪Coastal ▪JERSEY PICKLES ▪tript food ▪Rolling ▪ DIVINE HEAVENly FOOD ▪ LOS Flavors MUNCHIES ▪ shabazzfish & Chips Kusina ▪DAN’s WAFFLES ▪K.K. Sweets ▪SCRUMPS & YUM YUM ▪DIVINE HEAVENly FOOD ▪LOS MUNCHIES ▪shabazzfish & Chips PRESENTED BY COUNTY EXECUTIVE dan benson & THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Terrance Stokes (Chair), Cathleen M. Lewis (Vice Chair), John A. Cimino, Samuel T. Frisby, Kristin L. McLaughlin, Nina D. Melker, Lucylle R.S. Walter

Stokes (Chair), Cathleen M. aLewis (Vice Chair), John A. Cimino, Samuel T. Frisby, This is made possible by funds fromTerrance the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Kristin L. McLaughlin, Nina D. Melker, Lucylle R.S. Walter

The Messenger-Press25

June | for the Arts.

This is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National2026 Endowment

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Deerpath Bagels and Burgers marks 2 years in Hamilton It’s a holiday Monday at Deerpath Bagels and Burgers, and as the clock ticks from breakfast to lunch time, a steady crowd makes its way through the doors. They order a variety of bagels, egg sandwiches, smoothies, coffee drinks and fruit teas.

The first thing customers see upon walking in is a wall of fresh bagels — including common varieties as well as some less common styles like spinach and Oreo.

Schmear options include popular varieties (lox, veggie, chive) and creative ones (Nutella, mango, bacon).

As the day progresses, bagels and breakfast sandwiches remain popular choices with diners. The New Jersey special ($8.50) features egg whites, guacamole and romaine. The Trenton special ($9.50) is an egg and cheese sandwich topped with bacon and pork roll. All are served on a bagel, roll or toast.

Breakfast platters including French toast, pancakes and omelets share the breakfast spotlight.

But the beauty of a place like Deerpath Bagels and Burgers is that it has more than breakfast items on the menu.

Like burgers, for instance.

There are more than 20 varieties of burger on the Deerpath menu. The minimum cheeseburger size

is a double ($12.50), and there are triples and even a quadruple burger on the menu — the Mount McKinley cheeseburger ($20). Varieties include BBQ, pork roll, Cajun, turkey, and caveman (no bun).

The menu is large, and includes everything from chicken wings to Italian hot dogs to vegan milkshakes. In fact, there is an entire vegan menu with more than 15 items on it. Reddy says that cheesesteaks ($12.50) are a top seller, as are hoagies.

There are even ice cream sundaes. Milkshakes are popular throughout the day, as are teas like the mango iced tea ($5.50), which has chunks of actual fruit in it. There is also a selection of more than 10 boba teas, all $8.

Swapna Goli and Yogesh Reddy, of Chesterfield, and Kaushal Chauhan of Robbinsville are partners in the business, which opened two years ago in Deerpath Pavilion in Hamilton.

Goli says everything at Deerpath Bagels and Burgers is made fresh. “If people think it’s taking time for their food to come out, it’s because we are making it to order. Nothing has been sitting around,” she says.

She speaks about how important it is to her to treat every customer right. “I want to give the best customer service and I want to make sure the store is

clean,” she says. “I want to make sure prices are reasonable and that our customers are getting enough for their money.”

That must not come at the cost of quality, however, says Reddy. “Quality is our biggest priority. Quality and consistency. I would rather sell to one customer a hundred times than sell to a hundred customers one time.”

At the back of the restaurant is a large kitchen with a large bagel making machine where each type of bagel is made fresh each morning. At the front of the restaurant, there is a coffee-making station, fridges filled with drink choices and plenty of space for tables.

While the restaurant was consistently full with dine-in customers throughout the Memorial Day morning, Deerpath Bagels and Burgers does a brisk takeout business.

And, Goli says, top-notch catering as well. Standard catering options include bagel trays, breakfast platters, coffee boxes, muffins, donuts, and sandwich trays.

Deerpath Bagels and Burgers is located at 691 US 130, Suite A1B, with hours of operation being 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call (609) 438-9255 or visit deerpathbagelsandburgers.com.

Bagels • Burgers • Sandwiches • Wraps • Ice Cream • Smoothies Milk Shakes • Boba Tea • Cheesesteaks • Vegan Food

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June 2026 | The Messenger-Press27

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11 CHURCH STREET ALLENTOWN, NJ | 609-208-0640 | LAPIAZZARISTORANTE.COM 28  The Messenger-Press | June 2026