The Highlands Business Partnership has cancelled the 9th Annual Brew by the Bay, scheduled for Saturday, at the Seafarer, due to the impending severe weather and potential for coastal flooding.
The Highlands Business Partnership has been closely monitoring the forecast throughout the week. With strong winds, heavy rain, and coastal flooding possible as the approaching storm impacts the area, the decision was made to cancel the outdoor event in the interest of the safety of attendees, participating breweries, staff, volunteers, and vendors.
“We are very disappointed to have to cancel Brew by the Bay, especially after already rescheduling the event once this year,” said Carla Cefalo, Executive Director of the Highlands Business Partnership. “Unfortunately, with the potential for severe weather and coastal flooding, we feel canceling is the safest and most responsible decision. We greatly appreciate everyone who supported the event and thank our participating breweries, the Seafarer, volunteers, and ticket holders for their understanding.”
Ticket holders will be contacted directly by the Highlands Business Partnership with information regarding their ticket options.
For additional information and updates, visit highlandsnj.com or call the Highlands Business Partnership at (732) 291-4713.
Do Over The public learned at this week’s meeting of the Mayor and Council, that Carton Brewing is required to once again notify all those within 200 feet of a public hearing at the October 1st planning board meeting on its proposal to covert the brewery into a smaller brewery, a restaurant, tasting room, mezzanine for other gatherings, three third floor apartments and enclosed roof areas for each apartment . Do Over
The October 1st meeting will also include an agenda of the September meeting of the planners, but it was not made clear whether there will be any professionals present to respond to questions concerning new information which was brought up at that September planning board meeting.
Information at this week’s meeting of the mayor and Council was not on the agenda for the announcement, but only came up in the public portion in response to a question from a resident. The Planning Board agenda for the October 1st has not yet been released, though it was also announced there are five applications to be introduced.
The second notice of a hearing by Carton Brewing came after the ZOOM means of attending the meeting malfunctioned, in spite of notices ZOOM would be available. Board attorney Michael Steib ruled the meeting should continue regardless. When that decision was questioned at the last council meeting, Borough Attorney Marguerite Schaefer and Steib discussed what action should be taken to correct the matter.
Borough Attorney Margurette “Peg” Schaffer
Mayor Lori Hohenleitner said Wednesday that it was Steib’s decision, after an analysis of the meeting, to make the agenda of the September meeting “available” when it is available. The planners would once again open the public hearing as it had at its last meeting and once again take its vote on whether to approve all the variances for the Brewery.
Atlantic Highlands Mayor Lori Hohenleitner
It was not clear whether the approximate hour-long testimony of John Rea, a professional traffic engineer, first heard at the September 3 meeting, would be repeated at the October 1st meeting. Rea had testified there is never a serious parking problem along the Brewery area of First Avenue or surrounding streets during the open hours of the Brewery. The borough engineer had previously indicated 82 parking places, including those reserved for the apartments as well as one for handicap access, would be required under the law, where 20 are currently being provided.
A recording of the September 3 meeting is available now on AHNJ.org, under Planning Board recordings.
One of the things they’re going to need to accommodate all these different uses is lots more parking places than they now have. There have been some other great business owners in town who went to their defense, saying parking isn’t a problem and Carton’s new plans should be approved.These are the things you hear when you attend planning and council meeting. One of the things they’re going to need to accommodate all these different uses is lots more parking places than they now have. There have been some other great business owners in town who went to their defense, saying parking isn’t a problem and Carton’s new plans should be approved.These are the things you hear when you attend planning and council meeting. One of the things they’re going to need to accommodate all these different uses is lots more parking places than they now have. There have been some other great business owners in town who went to their defense, saying parking isn’t a problem and Carton’s new plans should be approved.These are the things you hear when you attend planning and council meeting. One of the things they’re going to need to accommodate all these different uses is lots more parking places than they now have. There have been some other great business owners in town who went to their defense, saying parking isn’t a problem and Carton’s new plans should be approved.These are the things you hear when you attend planning and council meeting. Do Over Do Over Do Over Do Over Do Over Do Over Do Over Do Over
Residents and employees at Care One Care Center in Middletown conducted a moving 9/11 memorial ceremony , with all sharing in prayers and sympathy for the families especially of the 37 Middletown residents who love their lives in the attack on the World Trade Center.
Their ceremony, which included prayers, remembrances, and hopes for world peace, was made even more significant for residents when Roza Bedad sang a moving patriotic song to close the ceremony. Ms Bedad is a resident at Care One, and an officer and active participant in the Center’s Resident Council. Known for her outgoing personality, her laughter and her ability to bring various groups together at Care One, she received applause and appreciation for her stirring rendition at the meeting in the main dining room.
Participating with Roza in the ceremony were Jessica Malek, the chaplain from Ascend who is a frequent visitor to the care center, Christie Adinolti, the Director of Nursing at Care One, Nicole Pennilla, and Anthony Sessa, administrator.
In his presentation to the group, Sessa thanked the residents for their participation, and their planning with Activities Director Karen Cohen for the afternoon ceremony and tribute to the fallen on September 11. He stressed the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in their own lives by recognizing the sacrifices of all who protect the nation, and cited ways they could remain positive in their own lives.
Carton Brewing’s a terrific business, a great supporter of the borough, and really, really nice people. Bu when they built their, often called “ugly”, building on First Avenue in Atlantic Highlands close to both a rather attractive elementary school AND a very attractive borough hall, they did not seem to care much about the esthetic impact on the borough’s main street. Parking
Now they want to make it prettier, with lots of glass which in itself might not be such a great idea in the first place, given the type of business it is … while they ask for a bunch more favors to enable them to change and introduce so many uses in the building to keep their business alive. They could just made it more attractive in the first place.
One of the things they’re going to need to accommodate all these different uses is lots more parking places than they now have. There have been some other great business owners in town who went to their defense, saying parking isn’t a problem and Carton’s new plans should be approved.
These are the things you hear when you attend planning and council meeting.
But then you also get to hear about parking problems in lots of other parts of town. Down by the Harbor primarily, mostly it seems, created by the success of Sea Streak.
You have to feel bad for that head boat captain who’s forced to pay thousands of dollars a year for his docking space in the harbor, yet he and the other head boats can’t even find a parking place for themselves to open the boat, let along get customers to fill it so they can pay those thousands every year. That captain pleaded at now two meetings, not just for himself, but for the other head boat captains as well.
Then you hear from neighbors on side streets who are finding problems parking in front of their houses because of overflows along First Avenue and the Harbor. You hear that the Catholic Church is allowing parking in their lot in a residential area for the Sea Streak crowd to be picked up with their shuttle bus. You hear about the homeowner who got some flak because he wanted to split his property still within the law, no variance needed, to allow another house to be built. Because that would mean more parking problems, folks said.
Most recently folks came into borough hall a bit late on a Wednesday night because so many wanted to be there, rightfully so, to praise and congratulate the police department, its chief, its new upgraded officers and everything good about the Department. They couldn’t find parking they said, so it took a little longer.
But a traffic expert hired by Carton said there’s nothing wrong with their wanting to change their business. Because while there might be problems elsewhere, they sure don’t exist up by that business.
The planning board agreed. They agreed to a bunch of variances without even having them read properly.
Then when their meeting bordered on possibly not meeting the laws, as brought out by a resident, the attorneys got together, and figured a way to ensure it would be right.
So now they’re trying again to be sure Carton Brewing can have all the approvals it needs to keep their business thriving in spite of not having anywhere near the parking places the engineer says they must have.
Borough officials, highly intelligent board members, other businesses have all gone out of their way to help Carton Brewing.
That’s not a bad idea helping really nice people to keep them in town. But really.
Doesn’t anybody learn?
Does everybody really think “this little bit more won’t hurt?
Doesn’t anybody see how what was once not even a problem, has blossomed into a major problem that is impacting so many parts of towns and irritating so many residents?
It started with a bit of a parking problem at the Harbor; heck, the Shore Casino couldn’t even find enough spaces when they had big weddings or major parties. Then it spread to the fishing boats. Then outside the harbor and onto the nearby avenue. Then the side streets. Then more side streets.
Now we’re up to yet another section of First Avenue and while the expert says there are no problems there the question remains … does the borough ALWAYS have to wait for a problem to exist before it comes to a solution?
Is there no planning ahead?
Is the planning board, and by its approval of all their variances, exist simply to give people the right to break the law legally in spite of how it impacts the majority of taxpayers?
As one woman said, “it used to be a nice little small town …”
Two distinguished educators will be the guest speakers at the first meeting of the fall season of the Northern Monmouth County Chapter of the AAUW, American Association of University Women. The meeting will be Monday, October 4, at 7:15 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Historical Society headquarters at 419 Sycamore Avenue, Shrewsbury. The meeting will be preceded by a 15-minute Opportunity for refreshments, conversation and an opportunity to learn more about the historical Society building.
The guest speakers, Elaine Hansen and Joe Bertilino, both renowned as distinguished educators will present their views and experiences in higher education.
Elaine Hansen is the former president of Bates College in Maine. She is now retired and volunteering at the Asbury Park Book Cooperative. She will tell us about her experiences as a woman in leadership roles.
Bertolino is the current president of Stockton University in NJ. He was a member of the Gender Studies committee for AAUW in 2019. He will discuss his efforts to create a culture of Stockton State University
Hansen is currently retired and volunteering at the Asbury Park Book Cooperative. She will speak on her experiences as a woman in leadership roles.
Hansen served as Bates College president from 2002 through June 2011 and became Executive Director of The Center for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University in July 2011.
She is a graduate cum laude Phi Beta Kappa from Mount Holyoke College in 1969, received her M.A. from the University of Minnesota in 1972 and a doctorate from the University of Washington in 1975.
The speaker served as the Provost of Haverford College from 1995–2002 and was a Professor of English at Haverford from 1980-2002. She was an Assistant Professor of English at Hamilton College from 1978-1980 and is a scholar of Chaucer and Middle English.
Bertolino, more affectionately known as President Joe, was named the sixth President of Stockton University on March 3, 2023, and brought more than 30 years of leadership experience and a commitment to student success and equitable access to higher education to the position.
Trained as a social worker, Bertolino works with an Ethic of Care, emphasizing dignity, respect, kindness, compassion, and civility for all members of the Stockton community.
Prior to his appointment at Stockton, the president also fostered partnerships with community colleges, organizations and corporate entities to expand dual-credit programs, create degree and certificate offerings and strengthen career pathways for students.
He is a member of seven national honor societies, including Omicron Delta Kappa and Golden Key, and serves on numerous professional boards and associations. Currently, he is president of LGBTQ Leaders in Higher Education, a member of the Executive Board of the American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) and serves on the Council of Presidents for the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB).
Bertolino holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration & Leadership Development from Columbia University; a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University, Camden; and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology/Sociology from the University of Scranton.
He previously led Southern Connecticut State University, in New Haven, Connecticut. And was President of Lyndon State College in Vermont from 2012-2016. Prior to that, he held multiple roles at Queens College/City University of New York, including Vice President for Enrollment Management, Vice President for Student Affairs, Executive Assistant to the President and Chair of the Department of Student Personnel.
The Reverend Stanley Lukaszewski, better known as Father Stas, will offer the Mater Dei Alumni Mass of Remembrance this Saturday, September 26 at noon at St. Mary Mother of God Church, New Monmouth.
All are invited to attend the mass, an annual remembrance of faculty, employees. Students and graduates of Mater Dei who have passed away. An oral necrology will recall all names including the founder of the Mater Dei High School, Msgr. Robert T. Bulman, former priests, sisters, coaches and boosters as well as faculty and graduates..
A reception in the church hall will follow the annual mass.
The Mass has been a tribute every year since it was first founded by former teacher T.C. Murray and carried on through the efforts of Mari Campanello Kovch, Tom Dooley, and Cathy Daniels, all graduates of the high school.
And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her.
The 2026 Twin Lights Ride, co-hosted by Bike New York and the Highlands Business Partnership, takes place Sunday, September 27, starting and finishing at scenic Huddy Park in Highlands, New Jersey.
Now in its 24th year, the Twin Lights Ride attracts thousands of cyclists from across the region to experience New Jersey’s coastline, countryside, and local communities. With five routes designed for a variety of skill levels, options include a relaxed 15-mile ride for families and beginners; a scenic 30-mile loop with 1,100 feet of elevation; a 55-mile route through Colts Neck and horse country; a 75-mile ride through southern coastal communities; and a challenging 100-mile century route circling Turkey Swamp Wildlife Area with approximately 3,000 feet of climbing.
The ride concludes with the Twin Lights Finish Festival at Huddy Park, free and open to the public. Cyclists, spectators, families, and visitors are invited to enjoy food from area restaurants and food trucks, a beer and wine garden hosted by the Highlands Business Partnership, and live music by local favorite Shut Up Gus throughout the day.
“The Twin Lights Ride has become such a great tradition in Highlands, and we look forward to welcoming the cyclists back every year,” said Carla Cefalo, Executive Director of the Highlands Business Partnership. “There’s a wonderful energy in town that day, and you don’t have to be riding to be part of it. We encourage everyone to come to Huddy Park, enjoy the music and food, cheer on the cyclists, and spend the day with us in Highlands.”
Registered riders will receive a custom event T-shirt and finisher’s medal, with ferry service available from Manhattan to Highlands for a scenic and convenient way to travel to the event. Parking will also be available near the venue.
Registration is open now for the 2026 Twin Lights Ride. Whether riding for a personal milestone, the breathtaking views, or simply to be part of the experience, cyclists can look forward to a memorable day on the road and a festive welcome back in Highlands.
And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing
The annual Colts Neck Friends of the Library Book Sale will be held at two levels of the library on Saturday, October 3, with a preview hour beginning at 9 a.m. at $5 per person There are no admission frees from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There is a scanner fee or phone app for $5. Teachers with school ID pan purchase a bag of books for $5 after the morning opening.
The sale continues on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with free admission and the offer of a bag of books for $5 and a dollar off $5 books one time at sale.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own bag, and cash or checks of no less than $25 are both accepted.
The Colts Neck Library is a branch of the Monmouth County Library system and is located at 2 Veterans Way. Further information is available by calling 732-431-5656 or visiting
And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the cou
It will be a busy night for the Atlantic Highlands Mayor and Council this Wednesday, a recently advertised change of meeting date from the advertised date at the beginning of the year as police officers are promoted, the name of the new lease of the former Shore Casino recommended by the Harbor Commission at its meeting and unnamed at the time is approved, thousands of dollars will be approved for several purposes, new business hours for borough offices will be approved effective immediately and official borough meetings can continue without ZOOM should equipment fail.
The meeting, which is advertised with the full agenda on the borough’s website, is being held Wednesday rather than September 21 in observation of Yom Kippur on September 21.
The governing body is expected to promote Michel Zudonyi to Captain, replacing retired Captain Harry Murtha, and Adam Gurlan to Lieutenant, as well as promotions of both Erica Hoffman and Patrick Anderson to Sergeants on the department. Each of the officers finished first both in tests and with the recommendation of Police Chief Scott Reinert as well as review and presentations to the borough administrator and the governing body.
Atlantic Highlands Police Chief Scott Reinert
Captain Zudonyi started with the local department 13 years ago as a special officer, was hired full-time in 2014, promoted to sergeant in 2020 and two years later, promoted to lieutenant. He is a graduate of the Monmouth County Police Academy and holds a degree in business marketing and criminal justice from Felician University in Rutherford.
Lieutenant Gurian, who will fill the vacancy created by Zudonyi’s promotion, was hired in 2006 after graduating from the Ocean County Police Academy and holds an associate’s degree in business marketing from Brookdale. In addition to his position serving as patrol supervisor, Lieutenant Gurian has also been domestic violence supervisor, borough ordinance supervisor, ABC officers, Bias Crim reporting supervisor, Crisis Intervention Officer, Resiliency Officer and head of the annual Atlantic Highlands Bike Radio.
Sergeant Hoffman scored highest of all department members who tested for the sergeant’s position and ranks first overall on the list.
Sergeant Anderson scored second highest on the test and, similar to the other appointees, was recommended by Chief Reinert and will be nominated by Mayor Lori Hohenleitner at the meeting.
Atlantic Highlands Mayor Lori Hohenleitner
The governing body plans to enter a two-year lease agreement with Windjam Events Limited Liability Co, a Domestic Limited Liability Company formed under the Laws of the State of New Jersey on 16 September 2026, with Jim McCallion of Rumson as the Sole Principal, at rates of $240,000 for the first year starting October 1 and $249,000 for the second year ending September 30, 2028, as recommended by the Harbor Commission. That commission had approved recommending the lease , which is for the former Shore Casino, without knowing its name at its meeting earlier this month.
In other business, Council is also expected to adopt a resolution which enables them to continue official municipal meetings even if the ZOOM process fails and residents outside of the borough meeting room will neither be able to hear or speak at the public meeting. The resolution outlines attempts that would be made to correct any failure of the system as well as a public notice on the borough’s website and a 15-minute wait before resuming the meeting which the borough attorney has indicated is in keeping with the Open Public Meetings Act.
Council also intends to change the open hours and days borough will be open, with the changes scheduled to take effect from that meeting forward. If approved, the borough offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays, and from 8 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday, the borough will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Notices will be posted at Borough Hall as well as on the official website.
Council also anticipates awarding a $5,000 contract to provide replanting 26 planters and a raised garden area along First Avenue for work to continue seasonal curb appeal for each season, and another $65,500 for improvements to Central Avenue, Auditorium Drive and Hooper Avenue as previously approved through a grant under last year’s Municipal Aid Grant Program for roadway improvements. Council plans to approve another resolution to finance a one-year contract for the Harbor Manager to work with a firm for the services of a diver for helix and tackle inspections at the harbor.
And another $10,000 for a specialized engineering service for various other projects t the harbor.
Middletown Township recently released a mini documentary about the World Trade Center Memorial Gardens, located next to the Middletown Arts Center on Church Street which honors the 37 residents of the township who lost their lives in the September 11 attack.
Mayor Tony Perry speaks during Middletown’s 25th anniversary memorial service honoring the 37 residents who died on September 11, 2001, as well as those who have since passed from 9/11-related illnesses. Friday, September 11, 2026. (Brian Johnston / Asbury Park Press)
The township held a special commemorative ceremony at the Gardens last week honoring the 37 residents as well as those who have since passed from 9/11 related illnesses.
At the closing of the candlelight ceremony 9/11, hundreds of community members walked through the Memorial Gardens, which were renovated for the 25th anniversary. Improvements include a restored walkway (Memorial Pathway), enhanced lighting, refreshed landscaping, irrigation upgrades, and additional benches to provide visitors with additional places to pause and reflect.
Persons wishing to view the documentary can watch it on YouTube or the township’s TV channel (Verizon FIOS Channel 26/Comcast Cable Channel 20) daily at 8 p.m.
Family members of any of the residents who lost their lives who would like information about the annual programs honoring residents, should visit middletownnj.org/911contact and complete the form.
And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting.And while Mayor Lori Hohenleitner made it clear that so long as she is mayor, and just about everyone has her telephone number, she wants everyone to know everything the governing body does and what’s going on, Borough Administrator Caleb Stratton made it clear that even though he directed the borough attorney to write a letter to a private citizen without the borough council’s approval, even though he had set up a meeting with a private citizen the mayor also said she would attend, and even though they were speaking about public property adjacent to one of several residents enjoy next to the public steps, he was not going to discuss anything about the negotiations with the one neighbor out of respect for her. “I have nothing else to say,” The administrator explained to the public at the council meeting storms storms storms brew brew brew brew brew brew
