Jamian Laviola grabs some herbs from the rooftop garden over the restaurant’s kitchen. (Photo by Jim Willis. Click to enlarge)

By JIM WILLIS

At Jamian Laviola’s eponymous Red Bank bar and restaurant, Jamian’s, patrons are apt to arrive on beach cruisers or skateboards, and if they come by car, there’s a good chance there’ll be a surfboard or two strapped to the roof.

That neighborhood vibe now extends to Jamian’s menu, with some produce coming from as nearby as a small garden atop the Monmouth Street restaurant and Laviola’s backyard garden in Navesink.

This summer Laviola is harvesting greens like romaine and frisee from the home garden and using them in the kitchen.

“We just brought in some lobster, and we’re making a fresh lobster salad tonight,” he told redbankgreen last Friday. “Will I use some of my fresh greens for that? Yeah, absolutely because it will make it just that much better.”

Laviola’s daughters Malia and Kai in their backyard garden in Navesink.

The turning point occurred last year, with the realization that the homegrown stuff was better than what was available elsewhere. Laviola says he made a margarita pizza with some of his own tomatoes, “and we were like, this is great f’ing pizza. So those margarita pizzas I did last year for like a month or two were all tomatoes and basil that came out of my home garden.”

Laviola says he’s expanding the role that his garden plays, but it’s still a small-scale operation.

“I can’t produce enough to use my produce [exclusively], but I can supplement my produce orders. Say I have a blowout on salads and it’s Sunday afternoon and my produce guy won’t be here until late Monday. I can bring in enough from home to [get us through].”

Jamian’s also makes use of a small garden on the roof of the restaurant, which recently won approval for an expansion.

“Up on the roof I’ve got mint, rosemary, hot peppers… The mint the bartenders use for mojitos comes off the roof. It’s better than the stuff I can buy,” he says. “There’s no comparison. I don’t use any sprays or pesticides. If I see a plant [with damage] I pull it. I just stay on top of it and don’t spray with anything.”

Not everything from the home garden is destined for the restaurant.

“For me,” says Laviola, “there’s nothing better that walking out to the garden in the morning with my kids at this time of year and seeing what popped up today. If I’ve got a couple of zucchinis that just popped up, I’ll grill them at home and we’ll eat them for dinner. It’s not always a product for the restaurant. I just like to incorporate it into the menu when I can.”

Susan Haugenes and Chuck Lambert perform with his full band in a free concert in Little Silver Sunday evening. Dead Bank is at the Walt Street Pub Friday night. (Photo by John T. Ward. Click to enlarge)

Friday, August 2:

RED BANK: Fixx presents a lineup of live bands starting at 8 p.m. with Diego Allessandro & Lot 25 playing a few songs from their next album. Also on the bill: the Trouble, Frances Jones & the Saviors, Exit 117, Oblivion and headliner Negative Traction. No cover; 26 West Front Street.

MIDDLETOWN: In honor of the 36th anniversary of “the King’s” passing, the Middletown Arts Center presents two nights of free, hip-shaking Elvis Presley tribute performances. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks. Night one of the weekend concert, “Memories of Elvis,” begins at 8 p.m. 36 Church Street; parking is free.

RED BANK: Dead Bank brings its Grateful Dead homage to the Walt Street Pub with a baked-to-perfection show that starts at 9 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Halloween returns to Red Bank a little early for the Jersey Shore Ghost Tour season. Take a guided, lantern-lit stroll through the hauntingly historic sites of Red Bank, the perfect event for any paranormal fan. The tour meets in front of the Dublin House and runs every Friday through Halloween, rain or shine. Tickets are $12 ($10 for kids) and reservations are recommended. 30 Monmouth Street.

TINTON FALLS: Join members of Monmouth Reform Temple for Shabbat services followed by a meet-and-greet Oneg. The Temple Open House event is free and open to the public and begins at 6 p.m.  332 Hance Avenue.

RED BANK: Two River Theatre’s Summer Jazz Café presents a jazzy dynamic duo to close out its summer series. Buster Williams and Bruce Williams perform in the Ledgends and Lions “No Relation Quartet.” Buster Williams currently tours with his “Something More Quartet” and has shared the stage with music icons including Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins and Nancy Wilson. Bruce Williams serves as the principle jazz instructor for the Jazz Arts Academy (whose students will showcase their talent as the opening act). The concert begins at 8 p.m. 21 Bridge Avenue.

SHREWSBURY: Jazz drummer and composer Rob Garcia visits C.J. McLoone’s for some Friday night entertainment. The music starts at 9 p.m. 560 Shrewsbury Avenue.

Saturday, August 3:

RED BANK: TLC star Theresa Caputo, also known as the Long Island Medium, comes to the Count Basie Theatre to share the story of her career, answer audience questions and conduct readings with the audience. Performances are at 3 and 8 p.m. 99 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Goodbie Amy, a high-energy rock cover band, stops by the Walt Street Pub for some hula-hooping, bar-top dancing and fun, up-beat music. The silly antics and show begin at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Sing it out at Open Mic with Rob Dye and Mike Ghegan. Jamian’s Food & Drink is the place to find musicians, new ideas, classic covers, and a relaxed hangout spot. Open Mic runs from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: The sidewalks and storefronts of the business district turn into a maze of music for the 13th season of Red Bank StreetLife. Stroll through town and listen to some free local music showcases, performers and locations to be announced. This week, and again on August 3, live art demos will also be featured. StreetLife runs from 6 to 9 p.m.

MIDDLETOWN: Brush up on your bilingual skills at the conversational French study group held at the Middletown Main Library. No registration is necessary and the session begins at 11 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Quincy Mumford & The Reason Why hit Jamian’s Food & Drink for a fun Saturday night set featuring the 21-year-old, New Jersey based frontman Quincy Mumford. The show begins at 8 p.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

Sunday, August 4:

RED BANK: BEATLEMANIA sweeps Two River Theatre, the two-hour performance features the look and sound of the original boy band. Tickets are $50 for premium reserved seating and $37 for general admission. All proceeds benefit the Housing and United Services, a nonprofit organization that provides essential living service to the blind and disabled. The performance begins at 3 p.m. 21 Bridge Avenue.

LITTLE SILVER: The parks and rec department hosts a jazz-and-blues al frescoe evening as the Chuck Lambert Band and singer and borough resident Susan Haugenes at the Markham Place gazebo, 7 p.m.

SEA BRIGHT: The animated adventure comedy “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted” hits Shore Flicks’ big screen in Sea Bright shortly after sunset. Bring blankets and lawn chairs as well as food donations to benefit local pantries. Check Shore Flicks Twitter and Facebook for cancellations and weather updates. Sea Bright Municipal Beach.

RED BANK: Fresh, locally grown produce from some of New Jerseys finest farmers, plus equally homegrown crafts, at this Sunday morning staple running May through the end of November in the Galleria parking lot. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Baaaquapalooza returns to the Navesink River this weekend, tinged with sadness over the death of co-founder Artie Natsis. (Photo by Stacie Fanelli. Click to enlarge)

By NICK MALFITANO

On two occasions last summer, Baaaquapalooza was the hottest ticket on the Navesink River.

A floating, fun-loving rock ‘n roll extravaganza that drew dozen of boats, the third incarnation was set to continue the bobbing bash in style on August 10. But that was prior to the April passing of 51-year-old Baaaquapalooza co-founder and Middletown resident Arthur Natsis after a seven-year fight against cancer.

Now, the rollicking river bash has a new, added meaning: a tribute to Natsis’s memory.

His wife, Feli Donato-Natsis, is keeping the tradition alive this Saturday at Blossom Cove, on the Middletown side of the river, opposite Riverview Medical Center, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Moroccan Sheepherders, Red Bank’s own Woodfish and other special guests are scheduled to perform on the fishing charter boat Big Kid, alongside Natsis’ vessel, the Chill Pill.

Commemorative T-shirts have been created for the event, which has been renamed “Artiepalooza,” and all donations will benefit David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, an organization that provides financial assistance to those affected by a cancer diagnosis.

“It’s grown bigger than I ever expected,” a delighted Donato-Natsis tells redbankgreen.

Artie Natsis and Steve Warendorf, lead guitarist of the Moroccan Sheepherders, first came up with the river party concept in the summer of 2012, when the Sheepherders were fired by the Dockside in Sea Bright for drawing too large a crowd.

“On a whim, they said why don’t we have a party on a boat?” Donato-Natsis recalled. “My husband and Steve started talking about the logistics of everything, and that was it.”

Two successful Baaquapaloozas followed.

After Natsis died, Warendorf suggested renaming the event in his memory, booking more musical talent and having T-shirts created for sale. They can be ordered at the event website.

Donato-Natsis said close friend Rich Muska, from the vessel Amy Lee, will be keeping the event safe from a nautical perspective.

“It’s a big responsibility out on the water, and on top of coordinating bands, shirts and dinghy pickups, we are 100 percent compliant with Coast Guard regulations,” Donato-Natsis said.

With all proceeds being donated, other local families locked in the battle against cancer will also benefit from Artiepalooza, which Donato-Natsis said is a fitting tribute to the fight Artie endured.

“I didn’t want the time he fought to be lost,” said Donato-Natsis.

Donato-Natsis stated she was looking forward to the celebration this Saturday.

“My husband always said he wanted people to be happy and move on,” said Donato-Natsis. “I know he’d be happy with this. It’s going to be a great day.”

The orchestra seats have been covered in plastic at the Count Basie for tonight’s appearance by fruit-smashing comedian Gallagher. Still: pity the housekeeping crew. Troubador Pat Guadagno, below, is at Jamian’s Saturday. (Click to enlarge)

Friday, August 8:

SHREWSBURY: Take a ride over to the Monmouth County Eastern Branch Library as big rigs from Shrewsbury Public Works line up for touch-a-truck. Big Truck Day is both kid and adult friendly, and begins at 11 a.m. 1001 Route 35 North.

SHREWSBURY: The Master Gardeners of Monmouth County demonstrate vermicompost, using worms to make nutrient-rich soil at the Monmouth County Library Eastern Branch. The compost demonstration begins at 11 a.m. 1001 Route 35 North.

MIDDLETOWN: The Manga Club gets a special visit from voice actress Michele Knotz – voice of May in Pokémon as well as video games, audio books and more – at the Middletown Main Library. J*Con: A Manga Club Special Event, features food, games, anime, manga, prizes, cosplay, as well as a Q&A with the manga star. Register in advance online, the event begins at 12:30 p.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Dig Into Reading at the craft party hosted at Red Bank Public Library, where kids can create rock paintings and animal fossils. The party lasts from 3 to 4 p.m. 84 West Front Street.

RED BANK: Have a smashing good time with Gallagher at Count Basie Theatre. After four decades of sidesplitting laughs, four heart attacks, one previous retirement and watermelon smashing, the comedian is retiring his Sledge-O-Matic. Tickets are $20, $25, $30, and $40 and the show begins at 8 p.m. 99 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: The Jukebox Criminals steal the show at Jamian’s Food & Drink. The show begins at 8 p.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

SHREWSBURY: Satisfy your sweet tooth. The original “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” is Shore Flicks‘ free summer movie of the week, starting at 8:15 p.m.. Bring lawn chairs and blankets as well as nonperishable food donations for local food pantries. Check Shore Flicks Facebook and Twitter for weather updates and cancellations. Shrewsbury Borough Hall, Broad Street/Route 35 and Sycamore Avenue.

MIDDLETOWN: This week, Middletown Main Library book club meets to discuss “The Red House” by Mark Haddon, a novel about estranged siblings who meet for a weeklong vacation. The discussion begins at 9 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Guns4Hire hold up the Walt Street Pub. The New Jersey based acoustic trio starts the show at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

Saturday, August 9:

SHREWSBURY: Field paleontologists Mike and Roberta Straka present a dino-filled show with music, puppets, fossils, show-and-tell, and a touch of magic. The All American Dinosaur Show is a free educational event taking place at the Monmouth County Library Eastern Branch and begins at 2:30 p.m. 1001 Route 35 North.

RED BANK: Learn about Audiobooks and eBooks at the Red Bank Public Library when Erik Stevenson demonstrates how to browse, check out and download free audiobooks and eBooks to a computer, eReader, or MP3 player using the library’s eLibraryNJ service. Beginners as well as experience electronic media users are encouraged to attend the session, that lasts from 10 to 11:30 a.m. 84 West Front Street.

MIDDLETOWN: Brush up on your bilingual skills with the conversational French study group held at the Middletown Main Library. No registration is necessary and the session begins at 11 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Rich Pagano (The Fab Faux), and John Conte and Jeff Kazee (Asbury Jukes) marry their musical talents for a benefit concert for The Cancer Support Community/The Diney Goldsmith Center at Two River Theatre. The concert features a tribute to the early songs of Elton John, including “Tiny Dancer,” “Levon,” and other tracks from his early career (1970-1972). Early Elton begins at 7:30 p.m. 21 Bridge Avenue.

RED BANK: Saloon singers Pat Guadagno and Rich Oddo stop by Jamian’s Food and Drink. The show begins at 8 p.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: New Jersey singer/songwriter Bob Burger returns to the Walt Street Pub for a sizzling Saturday night set beginning at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

Sunday, August 11:

RED BANK: The Galleria Red Bank Farmers Market presents fresh produce from local farms and highlights area eateries and unique crafts. Support the community and gain knowledge about local business development. The market runs every Sunday through November form 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Corner of Bridge Avenue and West Front Street.

RED BANK: Test out your pipes at Open Mic with Rob Dye and Mike Ghegan. Jamian’s Food & Drink is the place to find musicians, new ideas, classic covers, and a relaxed hangout spot. Open Mic runs from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Frank Talk’s Gilda Rogers leads a discussion with Cissy Houston, Grammy Award winner and late mother of Whitney Houston, focusing on Houston’s bestselling memoir, “Remembering Whitney” and features a special performance by The Anointed Sons of Jersey. Tickets are $40 and $75 and include a signed copy of the book. An Intimate Conversation with Cissy Houston runs from 4 to 7 p.m. 21 Bridge Avenue.

Partygoers gathered on dozens of vessels to remember a friend at Saturday’s floating bash on the Navesink dubbed ‘Artiepalooza.’ (Photos by Peter Lindner. Click to enlarge)

By NICK MALFITANO

One could hear the unmistakable sound up and down the Navesink River Saturday afternoon; American rock n’ roll. Sun peeked through the clouds as dozens of partygoers gathered in Blossom Cove on the river’s Middletown side to enjoy food, drink and live music at a floating party.

It could only be Artiepalooza.

The boat bash served as both a fundraiser – for David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, an organization that provides financial assistance to those affected by cancer – and a tribute to the memory of 51-year-old Arthur “Artie” Natsis of Middletown. The event, known as “Baaaquapalooza” during its first two incarnations last summer, was renamed in Natsis’ honor after he died from cancer in April.

“Everyone’s having a great time,” said Natsis’ widow, Feli Donato-Natsis, whose first name is pronounced ‘Filly.’ “I counted about 35 boats here. Some knew about the party, and others came from word of mouth. All our friends rented the only two pontoon boats in the area to be here.”

Those in floating attendance ran the gamut from river passerby to Artie’s family members, close friends and acquaintances. Through the use of modern technology, even those who couldn’t be present for the festivities enjoyed the scene.

“Steve [Warendorf, frontman of the Moroccan Sheepherders] set up a live stream of the party so people could watch online,” an exultant Donato-Natsis told redbankgreen. “I didn’t expect that.”

The Moroccan Sheepherders and Red Bank-based Woodfish set up on the fishing charter boat Big Kid in Sea Bright and played well into the afternoon.

While moving to the music, party guests wore commemorative “Artiepalooza” T-shirts and gave generously to the dinghy donation boats plying the river for David’s Dream.

Partygoers spoke warmly of Natsis.

“Artie Natsis was the kindest, gentlest, most beautiful man I’ve ever met,” said his former hairstylist, Sarah McGregor of Middletown. “He would help anyone whether he knew them or not.”

Friend Jason Olsen, a Michigan resident whose boat is tied on the same dock as Donato-Natsis’, contributed to the day by ferrying party guests across the river.

“Today, I’m the water taxi,” Olsen joked.

Olsen said he never met Natsis, but he and his family befriended Donato-Natsis and fellow event organizer Rich Muska from the boat Amy Lee earlier this summer.

“Everyone just became great friends. We’re here to help out Feli,” said Olsen.

Donato-Natsis said recently that she didn’t want the time Artie spent fighting cancer to be lost. Saturday’s event showed it was safe to say her mission was more than accomplished.

“This is much more than I ever expected,” Donato-Natsis reiterated, before extending a hug to a friend.

Recent activity reports, unedited, as provided by the Middletown Township Police Department.

James Koenig, age 56, from Brainard Avenue in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on July 28, 2013 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood on a Non-Support warrant issued by the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was held on $13,603.00 bail.

Phil Craddock, age 21, from West Sylvania Avenue in Neptune, NJ, arrested on July 28, 2013 by Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,500.00 bail.

Evan Rosencranz, age 19, from David Drive in Old Bridge, NJ, arrested on July 27, 2013 by Patrolman Donald Coates for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

On July 26, 2013 Detective Daniel Sullivan arrested a 16 year old male juvenile from Hazlet, NJ, for Terroristic Threats and Harassment. He was released pending a court date.

Kevin Ryan, age 30, from Green Grove Avenue in Keyport, NJ, arrested on July 27, 2013 by Patrolman Adam Colfer for Unlawful Possession of Oxycodone, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Palisades Park Municipal Court. He was held on $500.00 bail.

James McManus, age 60, from Leonardville Road in New Monmouth, NJ, arrested on July 26, 2013 by Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Freehold Township Municipal Court. He was released after posting $156.00 bail.

Daniel Doyle, age 36, from Shoreland Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on July 26, 2013 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield for Violation of a Court Order. He was released after posting $2,500.00 bail with a 10% option set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Hanieff Rodriguez, age 28, from Spruce Drive in Brick, NJ, arrested on July 26, 2013 by Patrolman Christian Clark on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $500.00 bail.

Tracy Barker, age 31, from Collins Street in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Anthony Bumbico for Simple Assault. She was released pending a court date.

Christopher McCarthy, age 37, from Seeley Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Possession of Hypodermic Syringe and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Ramon Iglesias, age 30, from Manor Parkway in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Ryan Riffert on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was held pending a court date.

Richard Mosca, age32, from Ocean Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Mark Rettino, age 60, from Danbury Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Anthony Bumbico on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Lakewood Municipal Court. He was held on bail.

Albert Shopp, age 25, from Summit Avenue in Belford, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Hazlet Municipal Court. He was released after posting $400.00 bail.

Michael Kost, age 49, from Kimberly Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on July 29, 2013 by Patrolman Scott Davis on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Wayne Smith, age 20, from Seventh Street in Belford, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Richard Belmonte on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Deal Municipal Court. He was held on $2,500.00 bail.

On July 29, 2013 Patrolman Nicholas Fenezia arrested two 16 year old male juveniles from Middletown, NJ, for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute within 500 Feet of a Public Park, Resisting Arrest and Obstructing the Administration of Law. Both subjects were released pending a court date.

On July 29, 2013 Patrolman Nicholas Fenezia arrested a 16 year old male juvenile from Port Monmouth, NJ, and a 16 year old male juvenile from Middletown, NJ, for Obstructing the Administration of Law. Both subjects were released pending a court date.

Christopher Rosado, age 25, from Main Street in Belford, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Ryan Riffert on a Violation of a Restraining Order warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $15,000.00 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Devin Hrbek, age 18, Brevent Avenue in Leonardo, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Driving While Intoxicated. He was released pending a court date.

Michael Finnegan, age 26, from Park Avenue in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Daniel Benbrook on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court. He was released after posting $150.00 bail.

Lisa Kotzen, age 45, from West Front Street in Keyport, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman James Beirne on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Eatontown and Keansburg Municipal Court. She was held on $1,131.00 bail.

Damian Newell, age 21, from Nautilus Drive in Leonardo, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Scott Davis on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,500.00 bail.

Philip Bamundo, age 58, from Interlaken Avenue in Ocean, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Patrolman Scott Davis on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $250.00 bail.

Laura Crosby, age 49, from Hollie Drive East in Belford, NJ, arrested on July 30, 2013 by Detective Kevin Gardiner for Theft. She was released pending a court date.

Matthew Drury, age 27, from Emory Drive in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on July 31, 2013 by Patrolman Thomas Russo for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Nicholas Randazzo, age 31, from Monmouth Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on July 31, 2013 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood for Simple Assault. He was released pending a court date.

Thomas Callahan, age 57, from Main Street in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on July 31, 2013 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood on a Contempt of Court issued by the Middletown Municipal Court.  He was held on $1,000.00 bail.

Michael Amitrani, age 20, from Blanche Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 1, 2013 by Patrolman Richard Fulham for Underage Driving While Intoxicated. He was released pending a court date.

William Froner, age 22, from Murphy Road in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Donald Coates for Driving While Intoxicated. He was released pending a court date.

David Higgs, age 23, from Johnson Mills Road in Lewisburg, PA, arrested on August 3, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Disorderly Conduct. He was released pending a court date.

Scott Velez, age 21, from Osborne Street in Keyport, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Adam Colfer for Being under the Influence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. He was released pending a court date.

Jeremy Mendez, age 22, from Goldem Lane in Hazlet, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Adam Colfer for Being under the Influence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. He was released pending a court date.

Daniel Murphy, age 61, from Campbell Avenue in Belford, NJ, arrested on Augst 2, 2013 by Patrolman Daniel Benbrook on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Woodbridge Municipal Court. He was held on $750.00 bail.

Lawrence Kiernan, age 51, from Pine Street in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Michael Reuther for Criminal Mischief, Simple Assault, Obstructing the Administration of Law and Resisting Arrest. He was released after posting $15,000.00 bail with a 10% option set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Gwendolyn Daly, age 57, from Buckingham Circle in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Oxycotin. She was released pending a court date.

Nicholas Ballard, age 23, from Birchwood Lane in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman Greg Buhowski on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $4,308.00 bail.

Marc Melendez, age 31, from Creek Road in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Patrolman James Beirne for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Resisting Arrest. He was released pending a court date.

Ryan Mason, age 23, from East Stroudsburg, PA, arrested on August 2, 2013 by Corporal Thomas Meckier on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $1,500.00 bail.

Lacie Solis, age 24, from North Concourse Street in Matawan, NJ, arrested on August 3, 2013 by Patrolman Frank Mazza on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Holmdel Municipal Court. She was released after posting $500.00 bail.

Robert Bayly, age 25, from Oakes Avenue in Belford, NJ, arrested on August 4, 2013 by Patrolman Richard Fulham for Possession of Heroin, Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Highlands Municipal Court. He was held on $446.00 bail.

Christopher Connallon, age 34, from Bayview Avenue in Keyport, NJ, arrested on August 4, 2013 by Patrolman Richard Belmonte on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $2,500.00 bail.

Priscilla Rivera, age 25, from Grier Street in Elizabeth, NJ, arrested on August 4, 2013 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Elizabeth Municipal Court. She was released on her own recognizance.

John Devries, age 49, from Patterson Lane in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on August 4, 2013 by Patrolman James Beirne for Driving While Intoxicated and Refusal to Submit to Breath Samples. He was released pending a court date.

Kevin McMillen, age 59, from Sixth Street in Union Beach, NJ, arrested on August 4, 2013 by Patrolman James Beirne for Providing False Information to a Law Enforcement Officer and on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court and a Non-Support warrant issued by the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was held on $46,360.10 bail.

On August 6, 2013 Patrolman Donald Coates arrested a 17 year old male juvenile from Brooklyn, NY, for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Frank Bush, age 29, from Division Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on August 6, 2013 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Adam Stanfield, age 38, from Park Avenue in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on August 6, 2013 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield on a Non-Support warrant issued by the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was held pending a court date.

Tyler Jacobwitz, age 21, from Ocean Boulevard in Leonardo, NJ, arrested on August 6, 2013 by Patrolman Thomas Hughes for Possession of over 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute within 500 Feet of a Public Park. He was held on $6,000.00 bail with a 10% option set by Judge James Berube.

Jon Morgan, age 23, from Ocean Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 6, 2013 by Corporal Robert McNair on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court. He was held on $150.00 bail.

Paige Gaglianese, age 21, from Woodside Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on August 7, 2013 by Patrolman Richard Fulham for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana. She was released pending a court date.

George Geiger, age 54, from West Shore Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on August 7, 2013 by Patrolman Brady Carr on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $500.00 bail.

Brendan Kennedy, age 30, from Old Phalanx Road in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on August 8, 2013 by Corporal Bernie Chenoweth on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $250.00 bail.

Patrick Berthiaume, age 22, from 95^th Street in Brooklyn, NY, arrested on August 8, 2013 by Patrolman Antonio Ciccone on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Galloway Municipal Court. He was released after posting $500.00 bail.

Elizabeth Burke, age 41, from Fisher Avenue in Neptune, NJ, arrested on August 8, 2013 by Patrolman Ricardo Cruz on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was held on $1,000.00 bail.

Christopher Gill, age 21, from Center Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 8, 2013 by Patrolman Albert Scott for Robbery. He was held on $15,000.00 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Roy Barker, age 34, from Collins Street in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on August 10, 2013 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield for Obstructing the Administration of Law and Disorderly Conduct. He was released pending a court date.

Kenneth Crawford, age 48, from Duchess Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Corporal Bernie Chenoweth for Shoplifting from the Shop Rite Store. He was released pending a court date.

Alexis Taylor, age 25, from Route 71 in Belmar, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Kimberly Best for Theft, Receiving Stolen Property and False Reports to Law Enforcement. She was held on $70,000.00 bail set by Judge James McGann of the Monmouth County Superior Court.

Marc Cavanaugh, age 51, from Seeley Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Daniel Sullivan for Burglary and Criminal Mischief. He was held on $5,000.00 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Jonathan Merklinger, age 29, from Carolyn Road in Little Silver, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Daniel Sullivan for Uttering a Forgery. He was released pending a court date.

Anthony Colacino, age 20, from Crystal Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Patrolman Adam Colfer and Detective Kevin Gardiner for Aggravated Assault, Theft, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Criminal Mischief, Disorderly Conduct, Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, and Robbery. He was held on $440,000.00 bail set by Judge James McGann of the Monmouth County Superior Court.

Kedron Belfon, age 26, from Central Avenue in Orange, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Patrolman Lawrence Seymour on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Newark Municipal Court. He was released after posting $100.00 bail.

Brian Handler, age 20, from Middletown, NJ, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Laurence Schachtel on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Freehold Municipal Court. He was released on his own recognizance.

Brieanne Jusinski, age 33, from Robin Road in West Keansburg, NJ arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Kevin Gardiner for Theft. She was released pending a court date.

Joseph McCabe, age 28, from Blanchard Avenue in Binghamton, NY, arrested on August 9, 2013 by Detective Daniel Sullivan for Use of a Stolen Credit Card. He was released pending a court date.

Jesse Farley, age 23, from Belair Court in Matawan, NJ, arrested on August 10, 2013 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Red Bank and Union Beach Municipal Courts. He was held on $370.00 bail.

Joseph Montemarano, age 25, from Idlebrook Drive in Aberdeen, NJ, arrested on August 10, 2013 by Patrolman Kent Thornton for Violation of a Court Order. He was held on $5,000.00 bail with a 10% option set by Judge Richard Thompson.

A former Red Bank-based lawyer faces up to 12 years in prison following his admission Tuesday that he stole a house in Locust from the estate of his late landlord and ripped off clients to the tune of more than half a million dollars.

In a prepared statement, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni said the disbarred 39-year-old lawyer, Alex Iler of Atlantic Highlands, pleaded guilty to stealing real property from the estate of a deceased woman and embezzling money from other clients.

Iler entered guilty pleas to one count of second degree theft of immovable property and one count of second degree theft by deception before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Francis Vernoia.

An investigation by the prosecutor’s office revealed Iler fraudulently assumed ownership of the property, in the Locust section of  Middletown, when a deed bearing the forged signature of the purported seller was recorded at the Monmouth County Clerk’s Office.

At the time of the purported transfer, the land was owned by the estate of a woman from whom Iler had been leasing the property, and no sale of the property had actually taken place, Gramiccioni said. The fraudulent deed purported to reflect a transfer of the property to Iler for $575,000 in December 2011.  Iler later used the property to secure more than $1 million in mortgage borrowings.

Iler was arrested last October and remanded to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution on $250,000 bail, as set by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Richard English.

He was arrested a second time just three weeks ago, after further investigation revealed Iler had stolen “in excess of $500,000″ from former clients of his Broad Street law practice, Gramiccioni said. Bail on that charge was set at $200,000.

In light of those charged, Iler also pleaded guilty to four counts each of theft by failure to make required disposition of property received

Under a plea deal, prosecutors will recommend Iler be sentenced to an aggregate term of 12 years in New Jersey State Prison. The agreement also calls for the entry of a civil judgment against Iler in the amount of $572,753.43. Sentencing, by Vernoia, is scheduled for October 8.

Assistant Prosecutor Andrew S. Fried of the prosecutor’s financial crimes and public corruption bureau handled the state’s case. Iler is represented by Dean Schneider of Red Bank.

Here’s the deed in question: Spangenberg – Iler Deed

It’s time for that week-plus-long slice of Americana known as the Fair Haven Firemen’s Fair, still billed as the largest firemen’s fair in New Jersey. And how about them tomatoes, below, at the Red Bank Farmers Market? (Photo above by Stacie Fanelli; below, by Jim Willis. Click to enlarge)

Friday, August 23:

RED BANK: It’s the last chance to get your hands dirty at the “Dig Into Reading Wrap-Up Party” at the Red Bank Library. The children of the Summer Reading Club get to create some deliciously earthy treats such as pudding “dirt” and pretzels sticks “in mud.” Featuring games, crafts and more, the party starts at 3 p.m. 84 West Front Street.

MIDDLETOWN: Catch up on “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card, a thrilling science fiction novel about an alien attack on planet Earth. “Ender’s Game” is the book of the month for the Middletown Main Library Teen Book Club. The discussion begins at 3 p.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

FAIR HAVEN: Things heat up at the River Road Fire House for the opening night of the Fair Haven Fireman’s Fair. The firehouse grounds are transformed into a carnival complete with a Ferris wheel and fire truck rides.  The “Out Back” snack bar and seafood kitchen will take care of your culinary needs. The fair runs from 6 to 11 p.m. 645 River Road.

RED BANK: The Count Basie 365 Cultural Series presents some cool Friday night jazz in the pocket park at Shrewsbury Avenue and Drs. James Parker Boulevard. The concert begins at 7 p.m.

FAIR HAVEN: Stroll for deals and “steals” at the Fair Haven Sidewalk Sale.  The two-day sale runs all day as a precedent to the Fireman’s Fair. Locations Vary.

RED BANK: Prep your taste buds for Taste This, appearing at the Walt Street Pub for a delicious Friday Night set. The music begins at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

Saturday, August 24:

FAIR HAVEN: The second day of the weekend-long sidewalk sale continues in Fair Haven.

MIDDLETOWN: American Sign Language instructors Sarah and Phoebe host a morning workshop to teach you the dexterous language at the Middletown Main Library. All ages are welcome and no registration is required. The session starts at 10 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

MIDDLETOWN: Brush up on your conversational French at a study group held at the Middletown Main Library. No registration is necessary and the session begins at 11 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Librarian Elizabeth McDermott hosts a free monthly session, “Collage Klatch” at the Red Bank Public Library for all those interested in the art of collage. The session runs 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 84 West Front Street.

SHREWSBURY: Bill Kozemchak speaks about prepping roses in preparation for the Jersey Shore Rose Society Rose show, to be held in September. Beginner’s clinic at 12:30 p.m. 864 Shrewsbury Avenue.

MIDDLETOWN: Aspiring authors, artists, photographers, and bloggers are invited to learn self-publishing tricks of the trade and print-on-demand services at the Middletown Main Library. The session begins at 2 p.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RED BANK: Red Bank StreetLife returns to town for the 13th season of musical sidewalk showcases. Performers and locations to be announced. StreetLife runs from 6 to 9 p.m.

RED BANK: After years of playing the Shore music scene, the legendary Sonny Kenn hits the Walt Street Pub for a Saturday night set. The show begins at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Lorna Luft appears at Two River Theatre for a concert presented by Music Works. VIP tickets include a post show meet-and-greet with the singer. Tickets are $45, $65, $75, and $105 and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. 21 Bridge Avenue.

Sunday, August 25:

RED BANK: The Galleria Red Bank Farmers Market presents fresh produce from local farms and highlights area farms, eateries and unique crafts. Support the community and gain knowledge about local business development. The market runs every Sunday through November form 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Corner of Bridge Avenue and West Front Street.

MIDDLETOWN: Creativity floods the Summer Showdown Contest and Arts Sale at the Middletown Arts Center. Presented by the nonprofit Ministry of Artistic Intent, the showdown consists of live music provided by three local bands, an open mic show combined with an art sale and performances by the top 5 contestants in each creative contest category. The Summer Showdown runs from 3 to 8 p.m. 36 Church Street.

RED BANK: Test out your pipes at Open Mic with Rob Dye and Mike Ghegan. Jamian’s Food & Drink is the place to find musicians, new ideas, classic covers, and a relaxed hangout spot. Open Mic runs from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. 79 Monmouth Street.

Pedestrians passed, above, as prep work and equipment staging for the replacement of the West Front Street Hubbard’s Bridge between Red Bank and the River Plaza section of Middletown got underway this week.

The $12 million, 18-to-24-month project will replace the existing steel bridge with a permanent structure that bows slightly to the north, as shown above right in red. The job will require a shutdown of all traffic across the existing bridge for up to four months when the new span is tied into the approaches at either end, officials at the Monmouth County engineer’s office have said.

The “temporary” steel bridge installed in 2004 it will be reused elsewhere, officials  said. (Photo above by Sarah Klepner. Click to enlarge)

A Locust man who worked at the CVS pharmacy in Little Silver has been charged with stealing painkillers from the store, borough police said Wednesday.

Stephen Matthews 2nd, 23, was arrested Tuesday and charged with stealing 1,614 tablets of the narcotics hydrocodone and oxycodone, with an estimated street value exceeding $20,000, according to an announcement by Detective Gregory Oliva, who made the arrest with Patrolman Andrew Smith.

Matthews was employed at the Prospect Avenue store as a technician, Oliva said.

From the LSPD:

The investigation revealed that [Matthews] had taken the pills from the pharmacy stock without authorization dating from September 2012 until August 2013. Matthews was charged with theft, receiving stolen property, possession of prescription legend drugs and obtaining CDS by fraud. Matthews was released on $15,000 bail pending court.

Rebecca Pruitt and Jorge Hernandez reinstalling one of the louvers for the cupola of Christ Church Episcopal in Shrewsbury.

By SARAH KLEPNER

Shrewsbury’s Christ Church Episcopal, one of the oldest buildings in Monmouth County, got a fresh coat of paint from top to bottom this month.

It took 15 people working six days a week for two weeks, and 30 gallons of paint, to freshen up the historic structure, which was built between 1769 and 1774.

The church, located at the southeast corner of Broad Street (Route 35) and Sycamore Avenue, has withstood abuse at the hands of man and weather from the days of American Revolution.

Billy Scalzo, structural repair contractor, at work amid cemetery headstones, above. Below, painted louvers ready for re-installation. (Photos by Sarah Klepner. Click to enlarge)

Soldiers in Washington’s army used a crown – now gone – atop the bell tower for target practice, but a member of the congregation who was prominent in the Revolutionary movement ensured that the building, which served as barracks for the American soldiers, remained safe, said Bob Kelly, parish historian.

The church was added to the National Register of Historic Structures in 1995, and was last painted in 1998, Kelly said.

Since earlier this year, Rebecca Pruitt, chair and sole member of the church’s property committee has overseen, and participated in, an extensive repair and maintenance project. That has included fixing damage from Hurricane Sandy to windows, doors, and the roof, as well as painting the whole exterior, including the bell tower and the removable shutters that protect the bell .

Pruitt, who learned about working on historic buildings from her father, brims with enthusiasm for the work and the people involved.

“It takes a community to keep this place going,” she said last week.

For instance, when funding for the $26,500 project fell short, Pruitt reached out to Benjamin Moore Paints, which agreed to donate $1 from every gallon of paint sold at Monmouth Building Center on Shrewsbury Avenue between now and September 15.

Contractor selection was based on attitude as well as experience. “It’s a subjective matter, there’s no checklist or set of official requirements,” Kelly said. The church needed “someone who is able to think outside the box,” Pruitt added.

The job went to Jorge Hernandez of Red Bank’s JAHC Complete Painting, who came with rope certification and so was able to do the rappelling necessary to reach the whole exterior.

Funds to pay for the work were mainly assembled by parishioners and matching grants from the Monmouth County Historical Commission, though church officials say they’re still several thousand dollars short and hope local residents will help out.

Pruitt also oversees an intervention program that engages youth who have been convicted of minor offenses by putting them to work around the property in lieu of jail time.

Activity reports, unedited, as provided by the Shrewsbury Police Department for the period of August 17 to August 23, 2013.

Report of Illegal Dumping in the area of Sunnybank Drive on 8/19/13. Victim reports debris from multiple large trees deposited onto property by unknown subject(s). Ptl. Jessica Boyd investigating.

Report of Bad Checks on 8/21/13. Naylors Auto Shrewsbury Avenue reports subject knowingly passed bad check for services rendered. Damages totaling $1,143.61. Ptl. Derek Myers investigating.

Report of Unattended Child in The Grove, Broad Street on 8/23/13. Officers arrived to find child left alone in vehicle. Case turned over to DYFS for further investigation by Ptl. Jessica Boyd.

Arrests

Wakeel E. Jones, male age 34 of Roselle was arrested on 8/17/13 for Contempt of Court in the area of Newman Springs Road by Ptl. Ryan Cullinane.

Teeaya N. Smith, female age 20 of Asbury Park was arrested on 8/18/13 for Hindering Apprehension, Contempt of Court and Disorderly Conduct  in the area of Broad Street by Ptl. Ryan Cullinane.

Micah Priester, female age 19 of Neptune was arrested on 8/18/13 for Assault and Contempt of Court in the area of Broad Street by Ptl. Adam Cerminaro.

Sharon A. Hradisky, female age 48 of Atlantic Highlands was arrested n 8/19/13 for Theft in the area of Sycamore Avenue by Detective James Ramsey.

Juvenile Male was arrested on 8/19/13 for Criminal Mischief, Underage Possession of Alcohol and Obstruction of Justice in the area of Penbrook Court by Ptl. Tracy Polk. Juvenile later released to guardian.

Jonathan D. Poole, male age 47 of Sea Bright was arrested on 8/20/13 for Contempt of Court in the area of Sycamore Avenue by Ptl. Jessica Boyd.

Governor Chris Christie, accompanied by Mayor Dina Long, heads into Northshore Men’s Wear, above, and meets with Jake O’Donnell of Jake’s Surf Shop, below. (Photos by John T. Ward. Click to enlarge)

By JOHN T. WARD

The rain that he said with certainty was following him from Cape May held off, long enough at least for Governor Chris Christie to make a whirlwind tour of Sea Bright’s downtown Wednesday.

The latest in a handful of visits to the borough since Hurricane Sandy knocked out every one of its commercial establishments, the 90-minute tour gave Christie a chance to tout his administration’s storm recovery efforts, slam a couple of federal agencies, and glad-hand supporters as he runs for a second term.

Though “not everything is perfect by a longshot” with the Shore’s recovery and efforts to attract tourists this summer, “we’re laying the groundwork for next summer, when I know things are going to be significantly better here in Sea Bright and all up and down the Jersey Shore,” Christie said.

Christie ended his 90-minute tour with a brief, private chat with Long at Sea Bright Pizza. (Photos by John T. Ward. Click to enlarge)

During a parking-lot speech that drew several dozen onlookers and at least as many media members, keen on any signal that he might make a run for president in 2016, Christie took aim at the federal Small Business Administration and the National Flood Insurance program for making recovery efforts harder for business owner and homeowners.

“Basically, the Small Business Administration is a disaster,” he said. “We should send FEMA to the Small Business Administration to clean up after the disaster that is the Small Business Administration and what they did to small-business people in this state.”

He urged business owners to apply for state grants and loans that have drawn few applications: the Stronger New Jersey Business Grant Program, with grants of up to $50,000 each, and the Stronger NJ Business Loan Program, with loans of up to $5 million that are interest-free for the first two years.

After speaking for about 20 minutes and fielding media questions from a from a podium set up outside Woody’s Ocean Grille, Christie stopped at Alice’s Kitchen, which opened recently in the space long occupied by Steve’s Breakfast and Lunch. He then crossed Ocean Avenue to schmooze with Brian George, owner of Northshore Menswear, and popped in briefly at Giglio’s Bait & Tackle shop.

Heading north on foot, followed by a scrum of television and still cameras, Christie met the young owners of Jake’s Surf Shop, ducked into Bain’s Hardware, shook hands with construction workers at Angelica’s restaurant and ended his tour at Cono Trezza’s Sea Bright Pizza.

“He was helpful to me personally,” said Ray Lena, owner of Angelica’s, which is still about three weeks from opening for the first time since Sandy.

Lena, who took Christie inside the restaurant for about five minutes, said he asked for some guidance on financial help, “and he gave me the card of a gal who can help me with those things. So that’s important. It’s important that he came and showed support” for the town’s recovery, he said.

At Sea Bright Pizza, Christie sequestered himself at a front table with Mayor Dina Long for a one-on-one while the cameras waited outside. Long told redbankgreen afterward that she spoke to Christie about beach dunes “and concerns I have about our readiness for the next [storm], that could literally be here in weeks.” She said Christie, with whom she occasionally talks by telephone, was “responsive.”

“Today’s not a closeout,” Long said of the visit. “Today is a check-in, in that he’s really just coming to see where we are and to celebrate the small successes and hear about the challenges.”.

Along his tour, Christie stopped to shake hands with Rumson resident Mark Filipkowski, who – having been advised by security that Christie had an allergy to dogs –  held a black Labrador named Star at arm’s length away from the governor. Filipkowski said he just want to thank Christie both for his recovery work and for his support for a favored cause: Wounded Warrior Dogs.

“He’s doing a tremendous job for our communities,” Filipkowski said.

Left in the lurch as Christie exited in his black SUV were the owners of Beach Burgers and Grille and Gracie and the Dudes ice cream, who had gathered outside their stores with employees and others on the expectation of a Christie visit.

This triple escutcheon seems to be trying to tell us something, but what? What does it symbolize? And of course, Where is it? (Click for a closer view.)

If you have a guess as to either, please drop us an email.

Last week’s Where Have I Seen This showed the vacant interior of what appeared to be a rather grand home or business.

Location: the first-floor store space at 32 Monmouth Street in Red Bank. It was last occupied by Stokaboka, which went out of business two years ago.

Thanks for writing in go to Sandy Talarico, Stanley Sickels, Gwen Toline, Jenn Woods, Yvonne MacDonald, and JerseyMermaid – one of whom thought it showed Donovan‘s in Sea Bright, and another who guessed the Downtown in Red Bank. The other four were correct.

By JOHN T. WARD

The 2013 race for Red Bank council went from lukewarm to hot and humid Wednesday night, when the two Republican challengers teed up the all-Democratic council over cash-outs for five retiring borough employees.

Cindy Burham and Sean Di Somma pressed the governing body over what they called a failure to plan for the exits of employees added to the town payroll before 1994, when a borough ordinance capped cash-outs for accrued “sick” days and vacation for new hires at $15,000 per employee.

Their comments came after the council approved, in a 5-0 vote, an emergency bond for $362,000 to cover payouts to five recent retirees who were exempt from the ordinance. And the heated exchanges between Di Somma and the council continued after the meeting concluded.

“I don’t think it’s right to borrow to make these payouts, and I don’t think people do, either,” Burham told Council President Art Murphy, who led the meeting in the absence of Mayor Pasquale Menna.

Murphy said the town has no way of knowing how many sick and vacation days an employee might choose to use before retiring.

Di Somma pressed individual council members on whether they knew the town’s stated liabilities for vacation and sick days, as reflected in the budget. None knew the figure, which Di Somma said was $2.4 million.

“If you don’t understand a budget you passed, how can anybody trust you?” he said.

He said the council should “look at who was hired pre-’94, look at their ages, which is a very good predictor of retirement, then plan, save money.”

Borough Administrator Stanley Sickels defended the borough’s approach. He said including the payout costs in operating expenses would prompt an increase in the tax rate, whereas grouping the obligations in clusters and floating occasional debt avoided that result.

“We do plan,” said Sickels. “The problem is our liabilities exceeded the amount we’d booked.”

Chief Financial Officer Colleen Lapp, who was not present, “felt that this was the best course of action” after consulting with the town auditor, Sickels said.

Di Somma, a relative newcomer to town, first made political waves two months ago with an eleventh-hour robocall campaign opposing a water system bond. He was quickly enlisted by Republicans to fill the ballot vacancy created by Suzanne Viscomi’s departure from the race, which briefly left Cindy Burnham without a running mate.

Burnham and Di Somma are challenging incumbents Sharon Lee and Kathy Horgan.

The issue prompted GOP state Senator Jen Beck of Red Bank to renew her call for an end to what she termed “taxpayer funded jackpots for retiring local public employees who were fortunate enough to be healthy and accumulate hundreds of unused sick days.” Beck said Democratic legislators have blocked reform, leaving the state with $1 billion in liability.

Here’s the bonding ordinance, which was approved, 5-0, with Councilman Mike DuPont absent: RB 2013-19Also absent was Mayor Pasquale Menna, who does not vote except in case of a tie.

The final weekend of the fair plays out in Fair Haven, and giant-tomato growers weigh in at Sickles Market. (Photo below by Peter Lindner. Click to enlarge)

Friday, August 30:

RED BANK: Halloween returns to Red Bank a little early for the Jersey Shore Ghost Tour season. Take a guided, lantern-lit stroll through the hauntingly historic sites of Red Bank, the perfect event for any paranormal fan. The tour meets in front of the Dublin House and runs every Friday through Halloween, rain or shine. Tickets are $12 ($10 for kids) and reservations are recommended. 30 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: Original rock cover band Backbeat puts a modern spin on the old ’60s classics you know and love at the Walt Street Pub. The music begins at 8 p.m. 180 Monmouth Street.

RED BANK: The Black River Band brings its original music and lyrics to Molly Maguire’s Black Point Inn. The show begins at 9 p.m. 132 East River Road.

SHREWSBURY: Dale Toth rocks C.J. McLoone’s in Shrewsbury for a Friday night set starting at 9 p.m. 560 Shrewsbury Avenue.

FAIR HAVEN: Things heat up at the River Road Fire House for the second and concluding weekend of the Fair Haven Fireman’s Fair. The firehouse grounds are transformed into a carnival, complete with a Ferris wheel and fire truck rides.  The “Out Back” snack bar and seafood kitchen will take care of your culinary needs. The fair runs from 6 to 11 p.m. 645 River Road.

Saturday, August 31:

LITTLE SILVER: The competition gets juicy at Sickles Market Biggest Tomato Contest. Local gardeners weigh in to win a $100 Sickles gift certificate. Kids ages 5 to 13 can also enter in the children’s category. No registration is required, but participants must be present at judging in order to receive their prize. The weigh-in begins at 1 p.m. 1 Harrison Avenue.

RED BANK: Red Bank StreetLife returns to town for the 13^th season of musical sidewalk showcases. Performers and locations to be announced. StreetLife runs from 6 to 9 p.m.

RED BANK: Keep up with The Jonzes when they hit the Walt Street Pub at 10 p.m. for some Saturday night tunes. 180 Monmouth Street.

MIDDLETOWN: American Sign Language instructors Sarah and Phoebe host a morning workshop on the dexterous language at the Middletown Main Library. All ages are welcome and no registration is required. The session starts at 10 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

MIDDLETOWN: Brush up on your French at the French study group held at the Middletown Main Library. No registration is necessary and the session begins at 11 a.m. 55 New Monmouth Road.

RUMSON: Frank Crow and Karl hit Molly Maguire’s Black Point Inn for a Saturday night set. The music begins at 9 p.m. 132 East River Road.

Sunday, September 1:

RED BANK: The Galleria Red Bank Farmers Market presents fresh produce from local farms and highlights area eateries and unique crafts. Support the community and gain knowledge about local business development. Jewelry, soaps, and china are also sold. The market runs every Sunday through November form 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Corner of Bridge Avenue and West Front Street.

LONG BRANCH: It’s lucky number six for the Holiday Express Sunset Benefit Clambake. Reserve now for the annual fundraiser held on September 13 with Tim McLoone and the band serve as the guests of honor and the night’s entertainment along with open bar, buffet, gift auctions and more. Register online or call 732.554.8010 to reserve in advance. Tickets for the Clambake are $225 and the clambake runs from 5 to 9 p.m. 1 Ocean Avenue.

Caitlyn Hickey and Catherine Lovallo of Hauser Hill Farms in Old Bridge are off to college now, but Farmer John Hauser will be at the table this weekend. (Photo by Jim Willis. Click to enlarge)

By JIM WILLIS

Labor day weekend is a high point for Jersey produce, and the Red Bank Farmer’s Market this Sunday will be a sure-fire place to get every last bit of flavor a Garden State summer has to offer.

Farmer John Hauser of Hauser Hill Farms in Old Bridge tells redbankgreen it will be a peak weekend for peaches, tomatoes and squash.

“If you haven’t gotten any peaches yet this summer, or if you haven’t gotten any to put away in the freezer, this is the time to do it,” says Hauser. “Don’t wait until September 15th, when they’re scarce and the price is high.”

Hauser says if you want to stock up, you can slice and freeze the peaches to use them in your cooking all winter long.

“A frozen peach added when you’re cooking is the same as a fresh peach,” he says. Hauser says his truck will be bringing white and yellow flesh peaches to the market.

What else is on the table? Jersey tomatoes, of course.

“It’s a good weekend traditionally for tomatoes,” says Hauser. “A lot of our Italian customers still do some jarring and make their own sauce with the plum tomatoes.”

This weekend, a lot of people will be in canning mode, and it’s not just about plum tomatoes, either.

“Plum tomatoes are the best for the sauce,” Hauser says. “But then we have customers who make another red gravy that’s not quite as thick, and they like to buy the big Jersey tomatoes. But they buy the ones that have blemishes or cracks that we sell at a greatly reduced price.”

Hauser notes that he sold out of tomatoes last weekend, moving more than 10 25-pound cases.

Late August is also a peak time for squash.

“We’ve got our second crop in now. We’ve got goldwater – which is a gold zucchini – green zucchini, meatball zucchini and yellow summer squash.”

So maybe between beers, barbecues and the beach this weekend, you can take some time to make some sauce for winter, or not. Got a favorite red sauce recipe you want to share with us? Leave it in the comments below.

The Red Bank Farmers Market sets up every Sunday from Mother’s Day to mid-November in the parking lot of the Galleria Red Bank, at the corner of West Front Street and Shrewsbury Avenue, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Scenes from the Fair Haven Fireman’s Fair, which continues through Saturday night. (Click to enlarge)