Jersey Shore Headlines

Four Monmouth County high schools make Newsweek's list of Top High Schools in the U.S. That story and more in today's Monmouth and Ocean County News from Townsquare Media.

Four high schools in the Freehold Regional High School district have made Newsweek's 2014 list of America's Top High Schools. Marlboro High School ranks among the top 50 -- number 46 in the nation. Colts Neck, Freehold Township and Manalapan High Schools also made the list. Selection is based on standardized test scores, college readiness, graduation, and enrollment rates.

The Lakewood lawyer tied to a massive investor fraud scheme involving Facebook stock and Florida land faces up to 20 years in prison on each of two related counts. Fred Todd has pleaded guilty for his role in the scam spearheaded by Eli Weinstein of Lakewood.

The New Jersey Relief Fund is preparing for its final round of grants to Superstorm Sandy victims. The fund will award $3.5 million by  the end of October, two years after the storm battered our shore. The money will go toward housing assistance, unmet needs and mental health support. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 30th.

Monmouth Park Racetrack could become the first in our state to begin taking sports bets after Governor Christie declared sports betting legal. Reports say the track's legal adviser says it hopes to begin taking the bets Sunday.

A MONOC paramedic from Toms River is accused of stealing the bank card of an unconscious accident victim in July and trying to use it at a convenience store. Lori Wegner was indicted yesterday on charges of credit card theft and fraud.

Brick Township will suspend its noise ordinance when the marching bands at both high schools hold practices, rehearsals, performances and festivals. The measure sets specific dates and times. The bands will not be allowed to play any earlier than noon and no later than 9 pm. Complaints from neighbors prompted the changes.

Three people allegedly high on hallucinogenic drugs needed help from Wall Township police getting out of Shark River Park woods after becoming lost and disoriented early yesterday. Brick residents Angela Urcuyo and Matthew Spinowitz, and Jordan Anastasio of Long Branch were arrested on drug charges.

Two out-of-state residents are accused of trying to bring drugs into Six Flags Great Adventure in separate incidents over the weekend. One man who set off a metal detector Saturday night was arrested for allegedly having methamphetamine and another man was arrested Sunday at the park for allegedly having heroin.

A new mental and behavioral nonprofit health services facility opens up in Monmouth County this Friday. CPC Behavioral Healthcare cuts the ribbon on its new counseling center in Freehold. After serving Monmouth County for three decades, they have found a new location that allows them to offer a host of services. And when it comes to addiction to drugs, there are hope and recovery options for families, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

Whether it's cheerleading, baseball ,or another extracurricular sport, it's no secret that many children today are booked solid from the time they wake up until they put their head on the pillow. But when is enough, enough? Specialized, competitive school athletics are having an impact on kids and their families. In some cases, the child will love and get a lot out of whatever activity it may be. But kids also need space to say 'I"m tired' or 'I don't want to do this.' Experts say parents need to look for signs. Is your child dragging their feet or sad when it's time to take part? It's key for parents to ask their kids and listen to their answers and their subtle messages. And it's just as important for parents to remove pressure and expectations.