Keyport, Hazlet OK shared court

Keyport and Hazlet took steps toward making a regional court system a reality this week, but not everyone is thrilled with the agreement. “I think it’s a bad idea,” Patrolman Joseph Ruth, president of the Keyport PBA, told the borough council during the public hearing on the ordinances to abolish the municipal court and establish a joint court system. The council voted unanimously to adopt both ordinances. Citing a lack of specifics in the arrangement, including the possibility of a night court, Ruth said, “I think we’re going to get the short end of the stick in the long run.” Keyport mayor Robert E. McLeod said he would support a night court at the eventual regional court, which is expected to be housed in Hazlet. McLeod also explained that the borough would have to provide a one-year notice if they wish to leave the regional court system. Three municipalities - Matawan, Keyport and Hazlet - introduced ordinances abolishing their respective local courts and establishing a joint municipal court system at separate Sept. 20 meetings. The public hearing in Matawan is set for Oct. 18. Under the terms of the introduced ordinances, all summonses and other appropriate matters from the three towns will be processed in the joint municipal court in Hazlet after Jan. 1, 2012, including matters arising before Jan. 1 that remain pending. Hazlet Mayor Scott Aagre said earlier this month the three towns would be saving upwards of $400,000, annually, with savings in Hazlet of about $244,000; $57,000 in Keyport and $106,000 in Matawan, not including the yearly fees the three towns will have to spend to run the joint court — $33,500 per town, plus another $5,000 per town for a capital improvement trust fund for court improvements. At the Tuesday meeting, Agree acknowledged the savings are a projection based on a review of the court revenues for the past five-years from the three towns. With those projections, each town would have to pay a percent of the shared cost for maintenance and security. Hazlet would pay 39 percent, Keyport would pay 38.54 percent and Matawan would pay 22.46 percent. In Hazlet, the concerns geared toward staffing, parking and availability of the courtroom. “All the concerns from the public are legitimate” Aagre said. “Everything will be worked out.” After all three towns have finalized the plan, the state's Administrative Office of the Courts and state Superior Court Assignment Judge Lawrence M. Lawson, who sits in Freehold, would have to approve the consolidation. Then, a municipal judge for the regional court would be appointed by Gov. Chris Christie. The mayors from the three towns will vote on appointing a prosecutor and public defender for the regional court.   Written by Alex Biese and Terry Gauthier | Staff Writers APP.com Anthony J. Gonzalez Michael Faiella Better Homes Realty (908) 565-0457 Anthony@JerseyShore102.com Mike@JerseyShore102.com http://www.JerseyShore102.com  

Keyport Country Jamboree & Chili Fest Oct. 8-9

What are you doing this weekend?  Mike and I will be checking out the Keyport Jamboree in downtown Keyport.  Click on the photo to read about all the details (as well as see some great listings available in Keyport in case you love it so much that you decide to move there after the Jamboree)!! Anthony J. Gonzalez Michael Faiella Better Homes Realty (908) 565-0457 Anthony@JerseyShore102.com Mike@JerseyShore102.com http://www.JerseyShore102.com  

When one conjures an image of Independence Day, they gravitate to thoughts of beautiful weather, hot dogs, family friends, bar-b-cues, and FIREWORKS. As the annual celebration of America, grilling, and pyrotechnics descends upon us one would be wise to celebrate in Monmouth County, NJ. Here in the quintessential shore community towns are gearing up for their salute to America, everyday this weekend one can sample something from the veritable smorgasboard of all things Americana. My first stop of the weekend will actually begin tomorrow night In Atlantic Highlands. The Atlantic Highlands Fireman's Fair is this week; running from Tuesday to Saturday. The highlights are Wednesday night's Fire Fighter night and Friday Nights Fireworks. All festivities are located at the Atlantic Highlands harbor found at the end of First Ave. KaBoom Fest in Red Bank will encompass the 1-3rd culminating is undoubtedly the finest fireworks spectacle in New Jersey. I love these fireworks, it gets crowded so get there early. I recommend taking the train in, parking gets to be an issue (price/availability/traffic). Contact the rivercenter for dining and shopping specials. Finally we have Oceanfest in Long Branch, this celebration of America and the Atlantic is celebrating its 21st year of existence. For those who prefer fireworks actually happening on the 4th, this is the place to go. I would stop in Sea Bright this evening and catch both the Long Branch and the Sea Bright Fireworks simultaneously. Sea Bright provides the musical stylings of the Tim McLoone Band, plus great beachfront restaurants and moderately better parking that the beach at Long Branch. Come on down the shore and celebrate your independence!

KEYPORT TOWN-WIDE YARD SALE

TOMORROW, SATURDAY JUNE 11TH, KEYPORT IS HOLDING ITS ANNUAL TOWN-WIDE YARD SALE. COME AND FIND SOME GREAT BARGAINS, ENJOY LUNCH IN ONE OF KEYPORT'S MANY RESTAUARANTS, OR GRAB A COUPLE HOT DOGS AND EAT IN THE WATERFRONT PARK. IT SHOULD BE A BEAUTIFUL DAY, SO COME ENJOY SOME YARD SAILING AND VISIT US IN OUR OFFICE AT 55 W. FRONT ST.

KEYPORT GARDEN CLUB SALE

THE KEYPORT GARDEN CLUB AND ARTS SOCIETY WILL BE HOLDING A SALE SATURDAY 5/28 AT THE KEYPORT MINI-PARK, RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO THE BETTER HOMES OFFICE AT 55 W. FRONT ST. IN DOWNTOWN KEYPORT. Wonderful handmade/hand painted planters and garden stepping stones, along with painted flower pots (they are gorgeous!) and a terrific variety of plants for the containers and your gardens. We normally get a good turnout, so it's a perfect opportunity to mingle and hand out business cards. It should be a beautiful day, so come and bay views, and eat at one of Keyport's outstanding restaurants/bistros.

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE IN KEYPORT

KEYPORT'S ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE WILL BE HELD MONDAY MAY 30TH, STARTING ABOUT 12:30-1:00 PM. COME AND CELEBRATE OUR NATION AND STAY TO ENJOY KEYPORT'S DINING AND SHOPPING OR TAKE A WALK ALONG THE WATERFRONT PARK. PLEASE VISIT US IN OUR OFFICE AT 55 W. FRONT ST, SIT ON THE DECK AND ENJOY THE VIEW.

NINE DEEEZ NITE AT BAR "A" IN BELMAR!!!

NEW JERSEY'S PREMIERE 90'S COVER BAND HAS JUST SIGNED TO PLAY AT BAR A IN BELMAR EVERY WEDNSDAY NIGHT THIS SUMMER, KICKING OFF WITH A BIG SHOW THIS SATURDAY, APRIL 9TH, AT 10:00 pm. COME AND HEAR YOUR FAVORITE 90'S MUSIC, PLAY 90'S TRIVIA FOR ACTUAL 90'S ERA PRIZES, AND JOIN THE 90'S DANCE PARTY BETWEEN SETS. A GREAT BAND AND A REALLY FUN TIME FOR ALL. (MY SON COREY IS THE LEAD SINGER/KEYBOARD PLAYER). EARLIER THAT SAME NIGHT, SATURDAY APR. 9TH, JULIAN FULTON AND THE ZOMBIE GOSPEL WILL BE IN THE FINALS OF THE 2011 BREAK CONTEST AT THE STONE PONY IN ASBURY PARK. THE WINNERS GET TO PLAY AT THIS YEARS BAMBOOZLE FESTIVAL. PLEASE COME OUT AND VOTE FOR THE ZOMBIE GOSPEL!! (MY DAUGHTER ASHLEY IS ONE OF THE SINGERS). HOPE TO SEE AS MANY OF YOU AS POSSIBLE AT ONE OF BOTH OF THE SHOWS.

NINE DEEEZ NITE!!!

COME TO EXPERIENCE THE JERSEY SHORES BEST 90's BAND....NINE DEEEZ NITE WILL BE AT McDONAGHS PUB ON APRIL 15th  AT 9:00P.M. COME TO DOWNTOWN KEYPORT FOR GOOD FOOD, GOOD DRINKS, GREAT MUSIC!!!

EASTER EGG HUNT!

FUN FOR ALL...KEYPORTS ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT APRIL 16TH AT 12:00p.m. CALL OUR KEYPORT  OFFICE FOR DETAILS AND UPCOMING EVENTS. BETTER HOMES KEYPORT 732-264-9593

OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND!!!!

AS THE OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND IS COMING TO AN END I MUST SAY IT WAS A WONDERFUL DISPLAY OF SIGNS AND BALLOONS FILLING OUR QUAINT WATERFRONT DOWN OF KEYPORT. PLEASE STOP BY OUR OFFICE LOCATED ON THE BAY AT 55 WEST FRONT ST AND CHECK OUT THE TOWN AND ALL OUR HOMES WE HAVE TO SHOW YOU! SPRING IS HERE AND WE ARE READY TO ASSIST YOU IN ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS.

Majestic 1841 colonial just listed

We have just listed an incredibly beautiful home on a corner lot just over 1/2 acre. Entering the home is like stepping back through time. Wide plank wood floors, pocket doors, Rumsfield fireplace with warming cabinet, a huge walk-up attic that could be 3rd floor living space, an in-law or mother/daughter bedroom with full bath and kitchennette,and a heated sunroom that makes a great home office, and a 3-car garage. There are so many gorgeous ammenities in this home, you must see to believe. MLS#21109377, listed at $459,900.

Ninedeeez Nite rocks the Jersey Shore!

Ninedeeez Nite, the premier 90's cover band in NJ has signed to play at Bar A in Belmar every Wendsday night this summer. Come and hear your favorite 90's tunes from Weezer, Bush, STP, Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Candlebox and a host of your favorite 90's bands. Play 90's trivia for actual prizes from the 90's, including beenie babies, starting line action figures, pogs, etc. Shake your butt to the  90's dance party between sets to  keep the party going all night! A great time and a great band!! Their first show at Bar A is Sat. April 9th, so come and check them out!

New Cookie Shop in Town!

Keyport welcomes The Cookie Shoppe, located at 12 W. Front street. Ribbon cutting ceremony w/mayor is tomorrow March 24th at 5:00 PM. Please come and enjoy some delicious cookies and pick up some St. Josephs zeppoles for Easter, or sample some of the delicious desserts.

Valentines Day approaching

If you're looking for a great place to dine on Valentines Day, Keyport has numerous fine restaurants. The Bayshore Bistro is a Zagat rated eatery whose chef was nominated by James Beard for best in the Mid-Atlantic region. They specialize in Cajan, creole and modern american cuisine. Nemo's features outstanding Thai, sushi and chinese, overlooking the bay with New York in the background. Lenora's Cafe is a great place for a Valentines lunch, serving homemade Mexican and American food. Trinity is the place for a romantic Valentines dinner, with great steaks and seafood, and Ye Cottage Inn always features fresh lobster and great oysters. Please make reservations early, and have a great Valentines Day.

Better Homes East Brunswick Welcomes Agents

We are Proud to Announce that Tara Mascola, Jennifer Rodrigeuz, Charles Jones and Nita Kastuar, formally of Century 21 W&Grn have joined our East Brunswick Office. Stop in or call 732-254-0123 for all your Real Estate needs.

Keyport Baptist Church Historical Evening

Sunday Oct. 17th  7:00 PM-celebrating 170 years w/fascinating artifacts, surprises, revelations. Refreshments downstairs immediately following program.  Corner of Main and 3rd.

Keyport Jamboree and Chili-fest--Oct. 9 & 10

This weekend Keyport holds its annual Country Jamboree and Chili cook-off. The downtown area will be buzzing with activity, local merchants will be set up on the sidewalks and street, there will be music, food & drink, chili cook-off, cake, pie and jam contests. Please come and sample all the chili and baked goods, or just enjoy the views from the waterfront pavillion.

Looking for a Little Old Fashion Fun in Small Town USA Style?

It’s that time of year again… The 13th Annual Keyport Country Jamboree and Chili Fest is an old-fashioned street fair featuring live music and entertainment, a contest to judge the best homemade baked cakes, pies and jams, and the best Chili around. The festival returns to downtown Keyport on Saturday, October 9th and Sunday, October 10th. Admission and parking is free, with the event taking place on West Front Street, which will be closed to traffic during the event from Broad to Beers streets. The event will take place from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, rain or shine, offering great food and fun for the whole family. There will be a beer and wine garden. On Saturday, October 9th, the Due South Band will perform at noon followed by Steel Rail Blues at 3:00 PM. On Sunday, October 10th, Mark Miklos will perform at Noon followed by Michael Patrick and the Suburban Hillbillies at 2:00 PM and the Southern Steel Band takes the stage at 4:00 PM. The bands will be performing in the mini-park on West Front Street overlooking the new waterfront promenade. There will be additional performers such as the Legendary OK Cowboy, and strolling Cowboys and Cowgirls. The kids won’t want to miss their stunts such as knife juggling, gun spinning, whip cracking and lassoing. Keyport’s downtown stores and cafes will be open throughout the festival, and they will be joined by specialty vendors and crafters lining the route, offering unique jewelry, clothing, handbags, gifts and other merchandise. There will be plenty of gift baskets for raffle at the annual Country Bid & Buy gift auction located outside the Front Porch Emporium on Broad & Main Streets. On Saturday, professional chili chefs from the Keyport Restaurants will be competing for a trophy presented by Mayor Rob Bergen. The chili tasting and voting will run from Noon to 5:00 PM on Saturday where spectators can vote in the People’s Choice award category. There are nearly a dozen Keyport Restaurants participating in the famous cook-off. The tasting kits will be available for $5 each at the Visitor tent located on the corner of Main & West Front Streets. The Kit includes a Country Jamboree Tote Bag, a map of the participating restaurants, utensils, wet naps and a ballot. The Chili Tote bags are courtesy of Calabrese’s Barber Shop, Drew’s Bayshore Bistro, Fat Kat Tattoos and McDonagh’s Pub. Chili will be available for purchase throughout the weekend at the food court along with many other festival favorites. On Sunday, from Noon to 4:00 PM, the Cake, Pie and Jam Contest will be opened to the general public for submissions. The winners will be announced at 5:00 PM. The Children’s Rides will be located on the Waterfront Promenade and ride bracelets will be available for purchase at discounted prices. The Keyport Country Jamboree and Chili Fest is hosted by the Keyport Cultural Celebration Committee (KCCC) with local support from our generous merchants and returning sponsors, the Front Porch Emporium and Keyport IHOP. For additional information, directions, or entry forms, call 732-739-5138.

Keyport Fest Saturday Sept. 25th.

Keyport's holding its annual Keyport Fest this Saturday, downtown from noon to 9:00 PM. Food, rides, crafts, music and fireworks!!   5K run starts at 7:00 AM (fee for running). Soap box derby and much more. This is always a great day in Keyport, come and enjoy the festivities or just relax on the waterfront pavillion. See you there.

Central Jersey fundraiser for 9/11 responders

KEYPORT, NJ - On July 29, federal lawmakers defeated a bill aimed at helping sick Ground Zero workers, but that’s not stopping two area businessmen from joining forces on the 9/11 First Responders’ Fundraiser. The event, which will benefit the non-profit FeelGood Foundation, will take place Thursday, August 19 from 7-9 pm at Trinity Restaurant, 84 Broad Street, Keyport. The affair is being hosted by Vin Gopal, president of the Hazlet Business Owners Association and owner of the Monitor Newspapers, and Peter Grandich, founder of Trinity Financial Sports & Entertainment Management Co. and Grandich Publications. “This is a non-partisan, non-political event to raise money for the brave men and women suffering devastating health problems from their heroism on September 11th, 2001,” says Peter Grandich. “Seventy percent of those who came to America’s aid at Ground Zero are now sick or have died from their 9/11 illnesses, and even though Congress has yet to pass a bill to help them, we must--as Americans--come to their aid.”                                                              The non-partisan nature of the event is further highlighted by the officials who will be honored at the event. The FeelGood Foundation will recognize three elected officials who have been ardent supporters of H.R.847, 9/11 Health & Compensation Act: U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (D), State Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini (R) and Beachwood, NJ Mayor Ron Jones. Sponsorships are available at $100 and $250 levels. Current sponsors include: Market Me!, Monitor Newspapers, Trinity Financial Sports & Entertainment Management Co. LLC., Dr. Steve Silberberg, Deborah Weiss of Critelli & Kilbride Realtors, The Network Connection LLC, Birdsall Services Group, Keyport IHOP, and Creative Approach LLC. Tickets for the event are $35 and include cocktails and light fare. For sponsorship information or to RSVP, email http://www.facebook.com/l/de5f3Fnl90leytO2qQX1rE1K5dw;vin.gopal.2008@gmail.com or call Jo Schloeder 732-751-1004.

44th ANNUAL KEYPORTS FIREMANS FAIR

COME ONE COME ALL TO KEYPORTS 44TH ANNUAL FIREMANS FAIR ,JULY 26TH-31ST... FUN RIDES, GREAT FOOD, GOOD TIMES! FIREWORK THURSDAY NIGHT @9:30 AND SATURDAY@11:15 LOCATED   DOWNTOWN ON THE WATERFRONT

Auction with reserve 169 Broadway

Auction with reserve Sunday 7/11/10 1-4pm Preview Saturday 12-2pm, all bids must be in by 4pm Sunday. Come ready to buy, pre-approval and $1,000 check for good faith deposit. 169 Broadway, Keyport NJ 07735

WHATS UP?

MANY THINGS, INCLUDING ME ON THIS BEAUTIFUL FRIDAY MORNING. I WANT TO LET YOU KNOW THAT THE QUAINT WATERFRONT TOWN OF KEYPORT IS HAVING THEIR FINE FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL,  SATURDAY JUNE  26TH FROM 12-7PM. COME TO TOWN, ENJOY THE GOOD EATS AND DON'T FORGET TO STOP BY BETTER HOMES REALTY AND GET YOUR TOWN INFO, MEET SOME OF MY AGENTS AND ENJOY MY HOME AS MUCH AS I DO. I"LL BE IN DELAWARE AT A WEDDING, BUT THINKING OF DREW'S DUCK CONFIT!