Home Care In Middletown, NJ

A judge ordered Middletown to settle with a developer to allow up to 136 townhouses there. It was initially going to be 408 apartments.

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A Monmouth County Superior Court judge ordered Middletown Township to settle with a developer to allow up to 136 townhouses to be built at 114 West Nut Swamp Road.

That is why the Middletown Planning Board introduced an ordinance at their meeting last week (Jan. 7) to change the zoning of that property from single-family residential (which it is currently) to multi-family residential.

The next meeting on this is the Middletown Township Committee meeting at 7 p.m. next Tuesday, Jan. 20, where the town will likely approve the court-ordered zoning change.

Here's the backstory on this:

Middletown Township tried to keep this property from being developed. 114 West Nut Swamp Road and 490 Red Hill Road, another vacant property in that area, are both owned by a private developer named Adoni Property Group.

Adoni Property Group initially wanted to build 408 apartments at 114 West Nut Swamp Road, and 67 apartments at the Red Hill Road property, which is directly behind Memorial Sloan Kettering cancer center.

Middletown tried to fight that; the town wanted to keep both lots as vacant open space and woodland. Middletown Township tried to seize both properties under eminent domain. If Middletown had been successful, both properties would have remained open space, said Mayor Tony Perry.

However, Adoni fought back and a legal battle between the town and the developer has been occurring for the past three years; Patch reported on it in 2023. Holmdel Twp. joined the legal battle too, to stop the Red Hill Road development (the property is right on the Middletown/Holmdel border).

Middletown was prepared to take the case all the way to the New Jersey Supreme Court, but last summer, in July 2025, a Monmouth County Superior Court ordered both sides to settle.

Middletown was forced to reach a compromise with Adoni. The terms of the settlement are that the Red Hill Road property will not be developed and must remain open space woodland, and Adoni will be allowed to build a much smaller number of units on the West Nut Swamp Road lot. And they must be town homes, not apartments.

The Superior Court judge ordered the settlement because she said Middletown is not building enough affordable housing. Twenty seven of those town homes must be affordable housing. The affordable town homes will be intermixed with the market-priced units.

Middletown has been fighting New Jersey's affordable housing mandates for a long time, arguing that developers, such as Adoni, use affordable housing quotas to allow them to build. Patch has written about that, too: Middletown Withdraws From NJ's Affordable Housing Mandate (2019)

Middletown's Twp. attorney Brian Nelson argued the case. He said this Thursday of the outcome:

"Everyone thinks we can just stop development. We tried to do that and spent a lot of money trying."

A group of Middletown residents started this website to stop the zoning change next Tuesday: https://savewestnutswamp.com/

Prior on this topic: Middletown Sued By Developer Seeking To Build 478 Apts. On Red Hill Rd (2023)

As the temperatures have recently dropped and winter is around for several more weeks in New Jersey, many of us have begun to feel a change not just in the weather — but in our bodies too. Cold weather can make joints feel stiffer, muscles more tense, and everyday movement less comfortable. That’s where expert care and guidance from comes in, offering trusted orthopedic support for anyone dealing with joint, bone, or soft-tissue concerns during the colder months.

With a location in Middletown Township, Genesis Orthopaedics & Spine is a community-focused orthopedic and sports medicine practice that provides comprehensive care for musculoskeletal conditions. Whether you’re dealing with chronic joint pain, sports-related injuries, or temporary discomfort made worse by cold weather, their experienced team can help with diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and rehabilitation strategies tailored to your needs. Their services often include everything from non-surgical care and physical therapy to surgical interventions when necessary.

In addition to in-person appointments, Genesis also offers telehealth consultations, making it easier for patients to connect with orthopedic specialists from home — particularly useful when winter weather makes travel difficult.

Cold Weather & Joint Health: What You Should Know

Many people notice that joint pain — especially in the knees, hips, hands, and back — tends to worsen when temperatures drop. Several factors contribute to this:

Tips for Cold Weather Care

Here are practical strategies to help protect your joints and maintain mobility throughout the winter:

Keeping your entire body warm helps maintain circulation and minimizes joint stiffness. Layering with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers, and wind-resistant outerwear helps trap heat. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and warm socks — cold hands and feet can make overall stiffness worse.

It might be tempting to stay sedentary on chilly days, but consistent movement is one of the best defenses against joint pain. Gentle activities like indoor walking, yoga, stretching routines, and low-impact workouts help keep joints lubricated and muscles strong. If you have access to a heated pool, aquatic exercise is an excellent winter option.

Warm showers, hot baths, heating pads, and warm compresses can help relax tight muscles and improve circulation to stiff areas. Applying heat before activity can make movement more comfortable and reduce pain.

Slippery sidewalks and snow can lead to painful slips, ankle sprains, or fractures — common winter orthopedic injuries. Wear shoes or boots with good traction, use handrails on steps and walkways, and keep paths clear of ice and snow to reduce risk.

Hydration supports joint lubrication, even in winter. Warm herbal teas or broths count toward fluid intake if plain water feels too cold. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods — including leafy greens, nuts, and omega-3-rich fish — can also support overall joint health.

If self-care and lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough — or if you experience sudden pain, significant swelling, or reduced mobility — it’s a good idea to consult a specialist at Genesis Orthopaedic. Early evaluation can help prevent minor aches from evolving into chronic issues and ensure you get the right treatment plan, whether that involves physical therapy, advanced pain management, or surgical options.

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean a season of discomfort. With smart preventive steps and the support of trusted orthopedic professionals like those at Genesis Orthopaedic, located at 1270 NJ 35, Suite 1 in Middletown, you can stay active, enjoy winter activities, and protect your joints all season long. Learn more about the Middletown location, TAP here, or call

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — 2026 is a big year for the United States of America: This year celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the summer of 1776.

America will celebrate a nationwide semiquincentennial, and here locally, Monmouth County and Middletown will host a big parade, called "America’s Big Birthday Parade: Red, White & You."

The parade will be held Sunday, June 28 at 12:30 p.m. The parade will be in Middletown Township. The route will be 2.3 miles beginning at the train station, north on Church Street, right on Kings Highway, left on New Monmouth Road, left on Cherry Tree Farm Road and right into Mater Dei Park. The parade will end at the new Mater Dei Park in Middletown, where the county will host America’s Big Birthday Festival, taking place from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the park. The festival will feature food trucks, live entertainment, family-friendly activities and more. Here is the route map of the parade: https://monmouthnj250.org/wp-c...

Do you or your group want to walk in the parade? Parade participants are encouraged to help bring America’s 250th birthday to life by incorporating creative visual elements, music, costumes and artistic expressions that reflect the spirit of this once-in-a-lifetime semiquincentennial celebration. Parade rules, regulations and an application are available at monmouthnj250.org/monmouth-county-250-parade.

“This will be one of the largest and most exciting public events Monmouth County has ever hosted,” said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone, co chair of the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee. “From marching bands to community groups, the parade will showcase the incredible people, organizations and traditions that define who we are. It’s more than a celebration — it’s an opportunity for our entire county to come together, reflect on our past and look ahead with pride and optimism.”

“We envision a spectacular parade filled with vibrant floats, live performances, and plenty of red, white and blue,” said Christine Hanlon, Monmouth County Clerk and Co-Chair of the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee. "This event will be a tribute to our communities, our county, and our great nation, centered around the three themes of our semiquincentennial celebration: Patriotism for our county, pride in our communities and participation in this historic milestone. It will be a signature moment for Monmouth County, bringing together residents, families, and visitors to celebrate our shared history and the spirit that makes our county so special.”

That June 28 date coincides with the 248th anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth, one of the most pivotal battles of the American Revolutionary War. The parade will honor the Battle of Monmouth, fought on June 28, 1778, while also highlighting Monmouth County’s rich and influential role in the American Revolution and its continued contributions to the nation over the past 250 years.

“Middletown is honored to host Monmouth County’s America 250 parade in a place where our nation’s fight for independence truly came to life,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “This is a town shaped by the Revolutionary War, and by the people who stood up for independence. We’re looking forward to honoring their legacy and celebrating our shared history with residents and visitors on the very ground where that history was made.”

For more information about the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee and upcoming events celebrating America’s 250th birthday, visit MonmouthNJ250.org or follow @MonmouthNJ250 on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Here's the line-up of adult programs at Middletown Township Public Library this January. The schedule includes a variety of lectures, creative workshops and engaging discussions to kick off the new year.

Additional information and registration can be found at mtpl.org. Any questions, please contact the reference desk at 732-671-3700, ext 320.

Create a 2026 Vision Board

Join us in the Makerspace on Tuesday, January 13 at 6:30 pm for an interactive workshop where participants will design a vision board reflecting their goals, dreams, and priorities for 2026. All materials are provided; bring your creativity and leave with a personalized visual tool for inspiration and motivation.

Learn About Creativebug

Join us in the Makerspace on Friday, January 9 at 10 am to explore Creativebug, a digital platform offering thousands of craft and DIY projects. Participants will complete a small project during the class, learn how to access additional projects from home, and discover activities that can be made using Makerspace tools. This program is for adults 18+.

Tech Tuesday: Internet Basics and Online Safety

New computer users can join us on Tuesday, January 13 at 2:30 pm to learn how to navigate the internet, use search engines, and explore websites safely.

New Jersey Book Club: Madhouse: A Tragic Tale of Megalomania and Modern Medicine

Join Andrew Scull on Monday, January 12 at 12 pm as he discusses the controversial psychiatrist Henry Cotton and his work at Trenton State Hospital in the 1920s. Participants may attend in person in the History Room or register for a Zoom link.

Virtual Talk: The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others Deeply with David Brooks

On Tuesday, January 13 at 2 pm, David Brooks will explore his new book, "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply." Brooks examines how to observe, listen, and engage with others in meaningful ways. Visit mtpl.org to register for the virtual presentation.

Welcome to Journaling: “Food for Thought”

Join retired educator Marilyn Lane on Friday, January 16 at 10:30 am for a fun discussion of curious quotes, inquisitory adages or thought-provoking questions to prompt your 2026 journal writing. Registration is required, as space is limited to 15 participants.

NJ Author Talk: Rich Romano

Join author Rich Romano on Saturday, January 17 at 2 pm in the Community Room as he discusses his books about New Jersey, highlighting the state’s historic landmarks with original photographs.

Virtual Talk: Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz

On Tuesday, January 20 at 2 pm, journalist Julia Hotz will chat about her book, "The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging," sharing research and patient stories that reveal the transformative power of social prescribing. Visit mtpl.org to register for a link to the virtual presentation.

Genealogy Club

Join fellow researchers on Wednesday, January 21 at 2 pm for this month’s topic, “Where to Get Genealogy Help.”

Sorcery & Starlight Book Club

The fantasy and science fiction discussion group will meet Wednesday, January 21 at 7 pm to discuss House of Frank by Kay Synclaire. Digital copies of the book are available to borrow on Hoopla.

America 250 Community Read: 1776 by David McCullough

Join us by the fireside on Thursday, January 22 at 2 pm for the first of four discussions on 1776 by David McCullough. Community members of all ages are welcome to explore the events of the American Revolution and their impact on soldiers, local communities, and historically marginalized groups. Each session will cover two chapters of the book.

K-Pop Craft Night

Join us in the Makerspace on Thursday, January 22 at 7 pm for an evening of K-Pop trivia, music, and crafts. Participants will create a custom photo card holder and be entered into a raffle for a special prize. This program is for adults 18+.

America 250: Revolutionary Medicine & Surgery

In celebration of America 250, Dr. Bill Anania will present a lecture on Tuesday, January 27 at 7 pm in the Community Room, demonstrating 18th-century medical instruments and surgical techniques used by doctors of the Revolutionary era.

Adult Zining Workshop

Embrace your creativity at MTPL’s Zining group for adults with resident archivist Laura Poll on Wednesday, January 28 at 1 pm in the Makerspace. No artistic skills are needed, and all supplies will be provided.

Virtual Talk: Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore

On Wednesday, January 28 at 7 pm, New York Times bestselling author Liz Moore will discuss her breakout 2024 novel, "The God of the Woods," following the disappearance of a thirteen-year-old at a summer camp in August 1975. Visit mtpl.org to register for a virtual link.

Twin Hearts Meditation

Join Debbie McCann-Call on Saturday, January 31 at 10 am for a guided meditation session focused on cultivating inner calm, harmony, and peace. This practice uses simple mental and physical techniques to promote relaxation and help reduce stress and anxiety.

The Middletown Public Library kicks off the new year with a January lineup of programs for children and teens. What's planned:

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Public Library kicks off the new year with a January lineup of programs for children and teens that blend learning, creativity and fun. Registration is required for most programs and is available at mtpl.org.

The Brainy Bunch – Wednesdays at 4:30 pm: Join a weekly STEM-based program for Grade K–5 combining education, experimentation and fun.

Duplo Free Play – Fridays at 11 am: Bring your little builders for open-ended Duplo playtime! Ages 2+ are invited to get creative, build big, and have fun together — no registration needed.

Tween Game Night – Tuesday, January 6 at 7 pm: Bring a friend or make a friend while playing games like Trivia, Bingo, Pictionary, HeadsUp and more. For ages 9-12.

Cards for a Cause – Wednesday, January 7 from 3–5 pm: Drop in to make winter greeting cards for Middletown seniors. Volunteer Hours will be offered for each card with a limit of 5 cards for 5 hours. For ages 13-18.

Gymboree for Walkers/Babies - Thursday, January 8 at 10 am and 11 am: Gymboree of Red Bank will offer gym classes for toddlers and babies.

Read to a Dog – Thursday, January 8 at 4 pm and Monday, January 26 at 6 pm: Improve the literacy skills of children by reading ten minutes to a certified therapy dog. Four sessions available on each date. For independent readers in Grades K-5.

Beluga Whale Storytime & Craft – Friday, January 9 at 10 am: Join Monmouth Museum volunteer Denise Hibell for a storytime and craft inspired by the museum’s January exhibit.

Standup Snowman Family Storytime & Craft – Saturday, January 10 at 10 am: Enjoy snowman-themed stories, then create your own foam stand-up snowman to display all winter. For ages 3+.

Tween LEGO Club – Monday, January 12 at 6 pm: Tweens learn to build fun creations with rotating themed challenges, STEAM-focused activities, and free build time. For ages 9-12.

Gymboree for Babies (newborns to 7 months) – Tuesday, January 13 at 12:30 pm: Join a special Gymboree session for babies, newborns to 7 months, with music and props, a floor mirror, parachute and bubbles.

Tween Book Club – Tuesday, January 13 at 4:15 pm: Tween ages 9–12 discuss a featured book, enjoy a related activity, and socialize during the second half of the program.

Sensory Family Storytime – Friday, January 16 at 10 am: Read, sing, dance, and play, then explore our interactive sensory stations! Designed for ages 0–3.

Meet the Seeing Eye Dogs – Monday, January 19 at 2 pm: Learn how Seeing Eye puppies are raised and trained, with visits from local puppy raisers and their dogs. For Grades K–5.

Tween Collage Board Craft – Monday, January 19 at 6 pm: Tweens create collage boards using mixed materials to reflect goals and inspiration for the new year. For ages 9–12.

Teen Anime Club – Thursday, January 22 at 4 pm: Join the Anime Club to create a collaborative Zine about our favorite mangas! For ages 10+.

Community Leader Snowplow Storytime – Saturday, January 24 at 10 am: Join a special winter edition of the Community Leader Storytime with Director of Public Works Ted Maloney, featuring stories about snowplows and a chance to see a real snowplow after storytime. For all ages.

Decorating Travel Mugs for Teens – Wednesday, January 28 at 7 pm: Join this teen art program where teens will use sublimation markers to design and personalize their own travel mugs.

Pokémon Trading Night – Thursday, January 29 at 6:30 pm: Join fellow Pokémon fans to trade cards, chat about Pokémon books and movies, and play the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Bring your own deck; best for ages 5+/grades K–4.