Tag Archives: feature

Retro Happy Summer Scout Campers

Fair Haven Boy Scout Troop #125 set to embark on a trip to Forestburgh in 1976
Photo/Frank Boesch

Heigh-Hoh! It’s off to scout camp they went …

Back in the 1970s, that is. Fair Haven Boy Scouts are wrapping up their return to camp at Forestburgh, NY after a two-year COVID-inspired hiatus and they’re soaking up not only the heat wave, but a lot of make-up time and tradition.

Continue reading Retro Happy Summer Scout Campers

Focus: Throwing Some Sunny Shade in Sea Bright

The scorcher of a weather week in the Rumson-Fair Haven area has had most locals headed to the Sea Bright beaches’ promise of that solace by the sea they know so well. Yet, they’re seeking shelter from the sun under that old umbrella of tradition.

It’s a dichotomy — seeking out the sun-drenched hot with a cool wave view — but one that makes sense to a local. The beach, any Sea Bright beach, not “the shore,” is the only place to be for a local in the summer — and beyond, really.

It’s the only way to stay cool in more ways than one. So, if you can’t get there and tradition beckons, the glimpse is here. (Just click on one of the photos in the above gallery to enlarge and scroll.)

And check out the weather forecast from the National Weather Service. The heat advisory continues through 8 p.m. tonight. The rest of the week? Well, let’s hope the advisory is truly lifted after 8.

Darren Groh: RFH’s New Superintendent

Darren J. Groh (center) is welcomed as RFH’s new superintendent
Photo/RFH

The new Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH) District leader has taken his seat in the school’s Office of the Superintendent.

The RFH Board of Education (RFHBOE) has announced the appointment of Darren J. Groh as its new superintendent of schools.  

Continue reading Darren Groh: RFH’s New Superintendent

Scene Around: Rumson-Sea Bright Bridge Replacement & Advisory

Yes, you can cross that Rumson-Sea Bright Bridge when you get to it. But there will be some intrusions through Thursday.

The long-planned new bridge is being constructed, as planned, parallel to the old, still standing bridge. However, the activity surrounding the bridge replacement may cause some disruptions in traffic flow to and from Rumson and Sea Bright for those few days, so Monmouth County officials have released a summary of what’s going on and where through Thursday between 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., weather permitting. Take a look at the gallery above for a glimpse into the project (CLICK on one photo to enlarge and scroll.)

They have advised that people should be aware of the following travel disruptions:

Rumson Road, Rumson

  • The eastbound shoulder will be closed and both travel lanes shifted through Thursday.
  • Flaggers may be present to facilitate delivery of construction materials Monday through Thursday

Ocean Avenue (Route 36), Sea Bright

  • Flaggers may be present to facilitate delivery of construction materials through Thursday

Shrewsbury River

  • Construction of the temporary trestles will continue in the water south of the bridge.

Retro Fair Haven TGIF Crew

A little TGIF kind of gathering at the Lang home in Fair Haven circa 1970s
Photo/Lang family

Originally posted on Feb. 25, 2022, we are reprising this one in honor of Jim Butler, who passed away a few days ago … RIP, Mr. Butler. RIP, all. It’s official, no one in this photo remains. The memories sure do, though …

Nothing says “neighborly TGIF” like a look back at what was a common kind of casual gathering of friends just because.

Continue reading Retro Fair Haven TGIF Crew

Remembering Fair Haven’s Jim Butler: The Light Weight in Community Family Matters

Call it luck for some that the smallest of moments carry a ton of weight that embodies a world of light — community light.

Let me tell you about it, with a light heart full of gratitude … The last time I saw forever Fair Havenite and fireman Jim Butler was at his near lifelong friend’s funeral. That was last May.

Continue reading Remembering Fair Haven’s Jim Butler: The Light Weight in Community Family Matters

Focus: Balmy, Palmy Sea Bright Surf & Skyline

There’s nothing quite like seeing the New York skyline as if it’s in the palm of your Sea Bright beach.

And it is, even though the palm trees aren’t indigenous to Sea Bright by a long shot — and a lot longer than the distance to that skyline. But, whatever works to bring the Sea Bright locals’ scene into perspective.

What works is taking the time to take in the view of what’s surrounding you on a summer’s day. It’s what’s home to and in the heart of those in the Rumson-Fair Haven area every day. From the sand to the surf to the palms to the skyline, there’s always something new in the view — something to savor. Something to make you exhale, knowing that you’re home.

Take it all in. Find the subtle differences in perspective. Find the little things. See what matters in the big picture. Exhale the comfort of home.

Enjoy the view, click to enlarge one photo and scroll for the full picture. Find those little things and find out what’s in store this weekend and into next week with the area weather, courtesy of the National Weather Service …

— Photos/Elaine Van Develde exclusively for R-FH Retro

In Memoriam: Former Rumsonite Jack Kraft, 86

Dad, you were a great father, husband , brother, and friend. You have touched countless numbers of people in your 86 years here with us. You have always put others first before yourself. You will be missed by many. P.S.: I don’t plan on putting my elbows on the table when I eat, or chewing with my mouth open, or saying the word “Eww.”

Robert Kraft, Jack’s son

Please also honor him by reminiscing about the time you were able to spend with him, have a laugh and raise a glass!” ~ family of Jack Kraft

Former Rumsonite Jack Kraft passed away peacefully on June 28. He was 87.

Continue reading In Memoriam: Former Rumsonite Jack Kraft, 86

Retro Rumson Barn Summer Showtime

Reprise from 2016, just because we think more people need to remember summer theater fun at the old classic — The Barn Theatre …

Summer is in full swing. School’s out and kids are embarking on summer activities.

Back in the 1970s, teens were actually singing about it … in summer theater at The Barn Theatre in Rumson.

Continue reading Retro Rumson Barn Summer Showtime

Focus: Taking a Summer Stand in Sea Bright

Sometimes you just have to take a stand — one to guard your life in a special way. The notion holds true especially in the summertime in Sea Bright.

When a beautiful summer’s day winds down, the scene become serene and the view clearer from the mind’s eye, no matter where you’re looking. From an abandoned lifeguard stand, it’s just all the sweeter a sight — as far as the New York skyline or as close as the shoreline and some child’s play or local scene home-in with a content sigh.

Taking a stand to take in all that’s home and a beach always gives perspective. Taking it in with ease and awe makes the sigh all the more grateful.

So, take a stand with us and take in the view — grande and microcosmic, there’s something to see and sigh for in every corner. Ahhhhh … That’s summer life that’s a beach in the heart of the Rumson-Fair Haven area kid.

Click on one photo to enlarge and scroll. Enjoy!

—Photos/Elaine Van Develde exclusively for R-FH Retro

The view will remain clear for days now … until Saturday’s rain. Take a look at the week’s weather forecast from the National Weather Service …