Gov. Christie Turns Out for Vicari Fundraiser

The governor was in town tonight, as part of a reported $250-plate fundraiser for longtime Republican Freeholder Joseph Vicari, at the Toms River Country Club.

Washington Avenue near the country club is lined with traffic cones, police presence and — at least before the rains hit — protestors who often follow Gov. Chris Christie to picket his known appearances.

The private event was held the same evening as the all-Republican led Toms River Council met a half mile away in town hall for a meeting that quickly ended before the scheduled dinner began. Council members joked after the meeting with other residents present whether they were going over to shake the governor’s hand.

Awaiting for a different type of interaction with Christie were several dozen protestors on the sidewalk outside the country club fence. Handmade signs with messages decrying the governor’s policies on tenure reform or with messages such as “I pay taxes” were held through about 7 p.m., when rains and lightning grew stronger in Toms River and many of those present left after the governor arrived.

Vicari is seeking re-election to the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders.