The Deadline

MoreMonmouthMusings: Sullivan joins MoreMonmouthMusings

2011-03-30T05:22:00.001-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Sullivan joins MoreMonmouthMusings: "MoreMonmouthMusings is proud to announce that John Joseph 'JJ' Sullivan, III has joined the blog as its very first correspondent. JJ, 24, ..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: The public, and candidates, speak transparency to ...

2011-03-30T05:22:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: The public, and candidates, speak transparency to ...: "By JJ Sullivan III Correspondent MIDDLETOWN- Members of the governing body were again called on to address the issue of transparency during..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Middletown reinstates overturned Master Plan

2011-03-30T05:21:00.002-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Middletown reinstates overturned Master Plan: "By J.J. Sullivan, III Correspondent MIDDLETOWN- Officials from the Planning Board passed a resolution Wednesday readopting the 2004 master..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Walsh dodges and attacks

2011-03-30T05:21:00.001-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Walsh dodges and attacks: "Walsh: 'It's a lie.' By JJ Sullivan III Correspondent MIDDLETOWN- Outside Town Hall during last night's Democratic press conference, comm..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Partisanship dominates Middletown Township Committ...

2011-03-30T05:21:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Partisanship dominates Middletown Township Committ...: "By JJ Sullivan III Correspondent MIDDLETOWN- Monday night, emboldened Democrats unabashedly voiced their grievances with the Republican maj..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Breaking News: Citizens file recall to remove Wals...

2011-03-30T05:20:00.001-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Breaking News: Citizens file recall to remove Wals...: "By JJ Sullivan III Correspondent MIDDLETOWN- Earlier this morning, a petition requesting the recall of Patricia Walsh from the Board of Edu..."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Walsh and Whatshisname Wheeling and Dealing

2011-03-30T05:20:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Walsh and Whatshisname Wheeling and Dealing: "By JJ Sullivan, III Correspondent The 2008 battle for Middletown will soon come to a close, with less than a week until voters decide the ..."

Keyport senior lobbies for added bus stops

2011-03-30T05:18:00.000-04:00

Keyport senior lobbies for added bus stops

BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

KEYPORT- Borough officials areworking to establish new bus stops for senior citizens living in themunicipality's two largest age-restricted communities, Mayor Robert Bergen said last week.

Residents of the Bethany complex, 500 Broad St., and the Legion Apartment Complex, 50 Beers St., have raised concerns over the lack of accessible public transportation in their immediate vicinity, and say additional stops are needed along the currentNJ Transit bus route.

Annual walk to benefit homeless dogs

2011-03-30T05:12:00.000-04:00

Annual walk to benefit homeless dogs

Hosted by the Keyport Business Alliance (KBA), the event was held to benefit the Castle of Dreams Animal Rescue, a local charity aimed at saving homeless animals from destruction.

Two men charged with stealing 75 handguns

2011-03-30T05:10:00.000-04:00

Two men charged with stealing 75 handguns

Firearms reported missing from FedEx warehouse in Eatontown

EATONTOWN - Two Monmouth County men have been charged with selling handguns that were stolen from an Eatontown-based FedEx warehouse, according to police.

John Sozomenou, 32, of Aberdeen, and James Dolan, 28, a resident of Keyport and a FedEx employee, are being charged by the Jersey City Police Department with 32 counts of unlawful possession of a weapon and receiving stolen property, according to police reports.

Police tag graffiti suspect

2011-03-30T05:09:00.000-04:00

Police tag graffiti suspect

Union Beach man charged with graffiti spree in local towns
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

Authorities charged a Union Beach man with 25 counts of criminal mischief, with the potential for more charges to come, after a sevenmonth investigation identified David Diehl as the lone suspect behind a graffiti spree that left significant property damage in at least 12 municipalities across northern Monmouth and Middlesex counties.

Garden club encourages education, beautification

2011-03-30T05:08:00.000-04:00

Garden club encourages education, beautification

New group aims for cleaner, more attractive Keyport
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

As Keyport officials put the finishing touches on a newly revamped waterfront promenade, a group of 25 volunteers has joined the community's redevelopment efforts, with hopes of using their gardening skills to increase the borough's aesthetic appeal.

History 4 kids

2011-03-30T05:07:00.000-04:00

History 4 kids

KEYPORT- Third-graders from Central School caught a glimpse of Keyport without electricity and other modern conveniences, as town historians spoke of the rough daily routine in post-Colonial Monmouth County on May 13.

Aberdeen cat killer sentenced to 5 years at MCCI

2008-12-09T03:48:00.014-05:00

Everyone's least favorite cat enthusiast, Anthony Appolonia, was sentenced to 5 years on Dec 4 by a Superior Court judge before a mixture of tearful cat-lovers, court employees and the media. The jail term will be served at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution. The judge found Appolonia guilty on 19 seperate counts of animal cruelty; the maximum penalty of each charge will run concurrently.

Here is the article at NJ.com

On a video at the APP Web site, Appolonia pleaded with the judge that his need for treatment was the emminent issue, seemingly inferring that he was not capable of coping with such a lengthy confinement. Apparently he does not like prison (?)

As reported at NJ.com

Reading from Appolonia's court-ordered psychological evaluation, Superior Court Judge Edward Neafsey and Assistant Monmouth County Prosecutor Nicole Colucci described a man with compulsive behavior who used the cats to vent his anger and frustration at a dissatisfying job, an estranged family and failed personal relationships.

See the video for yourself and tell me if that guy is not getting tortured every day by the other inmates!

There were unconfirmed reports that he was set afire while prostrate in bed. No reason was cited for his trip to the jail infirmary last year. This was one of my first storylines (as macabre as it is) that I covered, and it taught it me a few things: First, I needed to improve as a writer. Secondly, cat-people took their philanthropic endeavors close to heart. Thirdly, inmates do not like those who prey on the defenseless (e.g., animals or kids).

This video is from YouTUbe this summer when he was originally arraigned:

Appolonia had brothers convicted in Operation Bid Rig, a storyline I also covered.

Middletown election results; GOP sweep

2008-11-10T13:13:00.001-05:00

Republicans Pamela Brightbill and Tony Fiore dealt a crushing blow to the Middletown Democrats and maintained control of the Township Committee for the GOP.

The results are as follows:

REP - Pamela BRIGHTBILL 19,961 30.73%
REP - Tony FIORE 19,000 29.25%
DEM - James GRENAFEGE 12,970 19.97%
DEM - Patricia WALSH 12,972 19.97%
Write-In 48 0.07%

Walsh and Grenafege accused of wheeling and dealing; MMM

2008-11-10T13:12:00.000-05:00

By JJ Sullivan, III

Correspondent

The 2008 battle for Middletown will soon come to a close, with less than a week until voters decide the township's partisan fate. The political future of the county's largest municipality remains on hold until the results are tallied on November 4.

Yet, as both sides prepare for the last leg of a hotly-contested race, Republican candidates and party officials have taken the offensive, accusing their Democratic counterparts of intentionally circumventing a municipal pay-to-play [PTP] ordinance regarding campaign donations, allegedly disguising the contributions from potential vendors, "bundling" the funds from out-of-town allies under the guise of a political action committee.

The GOP candidates alleged that engineers from the Middlesex-based engineering firm of CME Associates formed the nucleus of a "wheeling" operation, an apparent to effort to dodge recently enacted restrictions which limit the amount of money a potential vendor can donate to a municipal campaign or candidate.

According to Republican Candidate for Committee Tony Fiore, "Middletown has a strict PTP ordinance that includes restrictions on wheeling."

The aspiring committee member said the actions were part of an effort to counter the new ordinance.

Walsh, Democrats keep quiet on BOE tenure, recall, etc

2008-10-16T17:07:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Still waiting for Walsh to call back

By JJ Sullivan
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- Democratic Township Committee Candidate Pat Walsh has yet to satisfy demands for answers relating to at least $30,000 she received for her legal defense in a civil lawsuit.

Additional statements and testimony provided by former BOE member Thomas F. Stokes substantiated the presence of another $60,000 of undisclosed debt for Walsh.

Both Stokes and Walsh along were called to Trenton on February 25, 2001, to answer questions before the School Ethics Commission.

According to the state records, "Mr. [David] Rubin [the attorney representing Walsh] stated that the legal fees have been an issue in Middletown for some time. At this time, Ms. Walsh stated that the district is still totaling the list of expenses and that now the amount exceeds $82,000, approximately $100,000 over the past four years."

Personal checks described by Walsh as "loans," worth tens of thousands of dollars each, were meant to cover legal funds. Instead, the public record shows the funds have either been improperly disclosed or were not dispersed as originally intended by Walsh.

Despite having the charges dismissed on a technicality by the School Ethics Commission in a 2001 hearing, Walsh faced questions from both partisan opponents and public critics.

Giants undefeated; life less miserable for tri-state area

2008-10-09T04:03:00.011-04:00

My father brought my brothers and I to Giant Stadium years ago, traveling an hour up the Turnpike to watch the often-depressing NY bigblue (see Kent Graham)

Pathetically, that initiated my lifelong channel of escape from everyday stress.
.
Any fan who did not get watery-eyed when we beat the Pats is not a true fan

Sunday, a day of respite, a day where grown children all over the country gather to enjoy the time honored American traditional of watching football.

I got to see my New York football Giants put a threashing on Seatlle. Watch out NFC East (that means you McNabb, Romo and TO)- the champs are back

Citizens file recall to remove Walsh from BOE#links#links

2008-10-08T12:35:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Breaking News: Citizens file recall to remove Walsh from BOE#links#links

By JJ Sullivan III
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- Earlier this morning, a petition requesting the recall of Patricia Walsh from the Board of Education was filed with school district officials.

Three residents, apparently fed up with the alleged actions of Walsh, handed in the necessary papers, initiating the potential removal of the Democratic committee candidate from her position on the nine-member BOE.

click on the headline for the rest.

Party divisions dominate Middletown meeting

2008-10-08T08:52:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Partisanship dominates Middletown Township Committee Meeting#links#links

Things get personal during campaign season

2008-10-07T15:53:00.002-04:00

For the entire article, check More Monmouth Musings tomorrow. Last night there were at least three other writers in attendance, and The Courier's Melissa Gaffney has already posted her article about the only thing worth writing about (at last nights meeting anyway.) You can check her article out by clicking on the post SimplySable. As for mine, you only get a taste until tomorrow.

By JJ Sullivan III
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- Last night, emboldened Democrats voiced their grievances with the Republican majority, setting the stage for an exciting finish to a momentous municipal election.

Allegations of veiled partisanship and political motives made for an intense workshop Mon., Oct. 6, as members of the committee exchanged insults, accusations and guarantees after an unsuccessful attempt to put a motion on hold initiated in a heated discussion over the nature of politics in the township.

The vote to continue forward with reestablishing the final aspect of the invalidated 2004 master plan sparked fireworks between longtime partisan rivals, with opposing sides accusing their counterparts of engaging in either political plotting or electoral gamesmanship.

The debate over the rezoning of an area intended for the controversial town center triggered the in-house bickering, featuring personal attacks and unethical inferences, after first term Democratic Committeeman Sean Byrnes openly stated his belief that the motion was rushed to action so it could be introduced before the elections on Nov. 4.

Things got personal by the meetings finale, as the Republican mayor was called a GOP puppet after stating that the Democratic minority was arguable subject to the influence of former state Senator Joe Azzolina, Sr. and his developing company, Mt Hill.

INSERT FIRST SUBHEAD

Democratic candidates talk legal bills and toxic spills

2008-10-07T08:25:00.001-04:00

Democratic candidates talk legal bills and toxic spills at press conference

By JJ Sullivan III
Correspondent

Democratic committee candidates Jim Grenafege and Pat Walsh held a press conference last night, Oct 6, outside Town Hall, both addressing important municipal issues in an effort to persuade citizens to vote for a new, liberal regime, one that promised to bring accountability, transparency and leadership back to office.

Splitting the oratory duties, Grenafege spoke of plans to control rampant legal spending, while Walsh accused municipal government of failing to disclose numerous cases of toxic contamination sites within the township.

Jim Grenafege.....

Grenafege, a rookie to politics yet a veteran of the business world, brings decades of professional experience and the enthusiasm of a newcomer. "I am in the [political game] to play it and to win it," he said."To make a difference in this community."

"The mayor has done nothing to address the current economic crisis," Grenafege said, inferring the administration's consistent pattern of mismanagement could not cope with the upcoming fiscal changes.

"The economic crisis is an enormous concern for all the citizens of Middletown. In addition to the question of how the derailed real estate evaluation will effect property taxes, some in our community have the additional financial burden increased flood insurance expenses," he said.

"We need greater clarity," he continued. "At present, legal bills are itemized as to appear that Township Attorney Bernard Reilly is doing all the work himself, for up to 22 hours each day. In reality, his partner is doing some work, and I suspect other staff, such as paralegals, are doing work as well."

According to Grenafege, the current method of legal billing has hours charged at a uniform rate of $125 each hour.

"A new standard must be set," he demanded. "All bills must be itemized so that we know who did the work and at what rate. There needs to be case numbers assigned to each itemized entry so the township can calculate and therefore manage how much a case or initiative is costing the taxpayers."

According to the first-time Democratic candidate, "The bar needs to be raised. Its time for leadership that stands in the present and plans for the future. Its time for leadership that provides direction, oversight and accountability to insure that the financial stability of the township is in good hands."

Walsh.............

Walsh talked about contamination mentioned at a recent public session by a Democratic member of the governing body.

She spoke of the expectations voters hold for elected municipal officials. "An elected official must be ethical, responsible, accountable, and most of all, honest," she asserted.

The current administration has lost the trust of the public, she claimed.

"This happened when it was announced that the Cultural Arts Center and the area formerly known as the Banfield site has toxic contamination problems," Walsh declared. "Underground diesel tanks were located at the site at the time of purchase, and the township has failed to properly remedied any harmful environmental or safety factors. You call that being responsible? I do not."

Walsh said she felt the committee owed the people of Middletown honesty when discussing this issue.

"Not only at the Banfield site, but right behind here," she said, gesturing over her shoulder to Town Hall, "there is a toxic site."

She did not elaborate further into the claim that Town Hall was "toxic" and therefore meriting similar comparisons to Banfield.

"[Middletown officials] have known about the alleged toxic sites for 10 years," she said. "That information did not come out until Democratic committeeman Sean Byrnes brought it up to the public."

The committee no longer had the same moral obligation that kept the public aware as it once did, she claimed.

"We literally don't know the extent of these problems therefore we don't know the extent of the costs. Who is going to pick up the tab?" she asked. "Its you and me."

"The problems of the past cannot be solved by those who created it," she added.

Walsh said Middletown cannot afford more of the same. "It is time for real change. It is time to create transparency in government. It is time to cut spending, limit borrowing and cap our legal professional costs. It is time for honesty in our government"

Taking the offensive against Deputy Mayor Pam Brightbill, she said it was easy for some to make easy promises during elections. Walsh said Brightbill had promised to keep taxes low, put Middletown first, put tax payers first, conserve Open Space, reduce spending and reform government.

"Taxes have gone up 16 percent," Walsh said. "[Did Brightbill] put Middletown first? [The status of contamination] would have been disclosed if [Middletown was put first as promised during elections,]" she said.

Walsh also said that if taxpayers were truly put first, they would not have to pay for the unknown costs of the unknown contamination.

"Her record really speaks louder than her words,"she said of the deputy mayor.

Officials have stated that the Banfield contamination has been treated with proper diligence on behalf of municipal officials, refuting any claims of mismanagement or environmental neglect and/or indifference.

Walsh response

2008-10-07T08:25:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Walsh dodges and attacks
Walsh: "It's a lie."

By JJ Sullivan III
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- Outside Town Hall during last night's Democratic press conference, committee candidate Patricia Walsh denounced allegations of financial impropriety, calling recent reports the result of "irresponsible journalism," while demanding a change of guard within the current municipal administration.

When asked for a reaction to an article posted on MoreMonmouthMusings concerning the non-disclosure of roughly $30,000 in funds dating back to 1999, Walsh simply stated that the story was false, and that both the mayor, Republican Gerard Scharfenberger, and myself were both liars who had contributed to a patently erroneous accusation.

Middletown GOP takes on Pat Walsh

2008-10-03T22:57:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Middletown GOP: Pat Walsh needs to get her own house in order

By JJ Sullivan III
Correspondent

Middletown Republicans have taken issue with the financial dealings of Democratic committee candidate Patricia Walsh.

Court documents produced by GOP officials detailed Walsh's failure to disclose over $30,000 in gifts on both her annual tax return and her personal financial statement in 1998 and 1999, filed in April 1999 and March 2000, respectively.

"I find it uncanny that someone who lectures others on governance and ethics doesn't appear to have her own house in order, not to mention that her record on the school board has been a disaster." said Mayor Gerard Scharfenberger. "I think Walsh needs to take a serious look in the mirror, at her actions and votes while on the school board, and reconsider her run for township committee."

MoreMonmouthMusings: Middletown reinstates overturned Master Plan

2008-10-02T07:48:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Middletown reinstates overturned Master Plan

By J.J. Sullivan, III
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- Officials from the Planning Board passed a resolution Wednesday readopting the 2004 master plan, a move reinstating documents nullified by the appellate division of the Superior Court.

Instead, the board opted to reestablish the plan from 2004, 5-0, despite warnings from attorneys representing developer Mountain Hill that such an action was a direct breach of a judicial mandate.

A judicial ruling delivered Sept. 10 by a three-judge panel mandated the creation of an adequate replacement.

According to James H Gorman, the planning board attorney, "the invalidation [of the 2004 plan] was probably an error." He cited confusion among the judges over the status of former Mayor Joan Smith in developing and adopting the documents.

Gorman stated that the board had already submitted a certificate for reversal to the appellate division, with the decision possibly coming in a few months.

Its back to business for broseph

2008-10-02T00:57:00.003-04:00

ANother video I found from the summer. This is my younger brother. Yes he is less attractive, less talented and an all-around poor substitute for me, but he can play a mean guitar. Flight of the Conchords fans, this performance will become one of the most covered songs in the history of man: "Its business time!"

Cha Flight of the Conchords

When bad things happen to mediocre people: Blogging in purgatory

2008-10-02T00:16:00.013-04:00

My college buddies and I still get together for the occasional swine roast or hazing session. After years of being atop the social latter, the only thing that matters now is success. Popularity and talent only get you in the game: you still have to play. So I decided to experiment, taking a break to alleviate stress while posting some nonsense.

Since my first days at The Courier, blogging was introduced as a young writer's best friend, the future of instant news coverage. Blogging allows for unfettered channels of communication, creating an endless stream of discourse inhibited only by the ambition of the blogger.

However, for some reason, my blog, The Deadline NJ [awk], feels like a portfolio.

I post my recent work to keep track of where I have been and who I must avoid, but where is the fun in that?

This summer at NJ.com, I got to live it up as a "party blogger." What that means, I dont know. It really didnt affect my daily routine, except for having to record and share my embarrassing latenight rabblerousing.

I got to live like a beach bum. I got to judge bikini contests. Hell, I sat on the beach and told everyone how great it was.

Well every season must end, and here I am, typing aimlessly to no one as a respite from my daily correspondence work typing for a few.

What do I do when I am not writing? I'm atching videos on the internet of people getting injured, that's what!
KIDDING (kind of. I do like non-fatal footage) I also like ambition, hard work, over-the-top work ethics and the weekends. That being said, all work and no play makes JJ a dull boy.

Man, if I could only go to D'Jais in my car...BEL MAR

Man I love those guys, the dumb animals remind me of my former self. Too bad I chose to pursue a profession that prides itself on doling out daily doses of comeuppance to people like me. Do I just look like a jerk?

Nonetheless, I am writing and you are reading, which makes this endeavor slightly more successful than the NJPA award I won.

And I'll probably end up working for my father...

COMMENT OF THE SUMMER:

JO123: i cant believe this JJ Sullivan gets paid by NJ.com what a joke

Thanks anonymous slimeball!

MoreMonmouthMusings: Mountain Hill wins battle, but Middletown to continue war over Town Square#links#links

2008-10-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

MoreMonmouthMusings: Mountain Hill wins battle, but Middletown to continue war over Town Square#links#links

By J.J. Sullivan, III
Corespondent

MIDDLETOWN- Mountain Hill may have won the battle, but the war continues on.

Despite a resounding victory by way of a unanimous appellate court decision, efforts to erect a controversial "town square" met with yet another string of legal and political hurdles last night, Sept. 30, as the governing body passed a resolution declaring their intentions to seek a reversal through the last remaining avenue of judicial appeal, the state Supreme Court.

The township committee unanimously approved the resolution, 5-0, ratifying the submission of a certificate to the Supreme Court, one of a few last-ditch attempts to overturn the Superior Court ruling that nullified the 2004 Master Plan, allowing the resuscitated project a deathbed reprieve, rescinding the hold placed on the submission of applications.

Now, just two weeks after being forced to review the application and abandon their master plan, township officials are contesting the validity of the judicial ruling, with the Planning Board looking to reinstate the 2004 plan deemed devoid of merit by the appellate division.

The public, and candidates, speak transparency to Middletown committee

2008-09-19T00:00:00.001-04:00

MIDDLETOWN- Members of the governing body were again called on to address the issue of transparency during the September 15 public session, allegations that have become a frequently opined area of dispute among committee candidates and other members of the township.

Not surprisingly, the issue has made for strong partisan talking points, arguable from either side of the political spectrum.

For the rest of the story, follow the link below:

MoreMonmouthMusings: The public, and candidates, speak transparency to Middletown committee

Future of shared services in doubt

2008-09-17T23:48:00.006-04:00

F.H. and Rumson vote to form joint committee
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

The proposals of the Two River Regional Police Study Group were met with guarded skepticism by officials in Rumson and Fair Haven last week, with both municipalities expressing serious doubts about the feasibility of consolidating their police departments.

The study's recommendation to consolidate three local law enforcement agencies in Little Silver, Rumson and Fair Haven into a single, regional police squad prompted the borough councils in both Fair Haven and Rumson to pass measures calling for additional study.

The Fair Haven council adopted a resolution on Sept. 8 approving the creation of a joint management committee (JMC) together with Little Silver and Rumson to improve communications between police officials in the neighboring towns.

Council members had concerns about the plans advocated in the study, conducted over an 18-month period by Patriot Consulting Group, Monmouth Beach. Some borough officials voiced doubts about the accuracy of information and suggestions in the study.

Follow this link to The Hub for the rest of the story.

Boro will seek funds for upgrades to Fair Haven Fields

2008-09-17T23:48:00.004-04:00

More fields, walking paths, drainage in plans
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

FAIR HAVEN — The borough will seek funding from the state and county for improvements at the 77-acre park known as Fair Haven Fields.

At the Sept. 8 Borough Council meeting, borough officials said they will submit two grant applications to support the second phase of what Mayor Michael Halfacre described as a long-term improvement plan for the recreational hub of the community.

The council discussed plans to apply for a Monmouth County Municipal Open Space grant, which would cover approximately half of the estimated $435,000 cost of the upgrades. According to officials, the purpose of the grant is to expand park and open space opportunities for residents.

Follow the link to The Hub for the rest of the story.

Middletown GOP Chooses Accountability

2008-09-17T23:48:00.001-04:00

Budget committee a no-go
By J.J. Sullivan, III
Correspondent

MIDDLETOWN- A move to establish an advisory committee charged with quarterbacking the township's annual spending plan failed to garner support amongst the Republican majority, who voiced reluctance to restrict involvement in what was described as an inherent responsibility of all elected municipal officials.

The resolution put forth by Democratic Councilman Sean Byrnes was voted down, 2-3, during last nights meeting at Town Hall, with votes splitting along party lines.

Mayor Gerard Scharfenberger, Deputy Mayor Pamela Brightbill and Committee member Thomas Wilkens all offered lengthy comments on their objections to the initiative.

Byrnes said the efficiency in completing the complex fiscal process would be improved if individuals were given clear responsibilities regarding the handling the budget.

He also made a surprising revelation about a lingering contamination issue with the town's Arts Center; asserting that enhanced oversight could provide a much needed solution. For the rest of the story go to More Monmouth Musings

Real American Heroes: B-E-L..M-A-R

2008-09-14T12:20:00.002-04:00

I guess that would be some kind of a personal preference, but these guys fit the bill.

Q. What is the best part about the summer?

A. Going to D'Jais in my car... B-E-L...M-A-R

If you have yet to get an adrenaline rush from a little group chanting, then I dont know what to say.

Oh, and there is a Middletown meeting tomorrow. And an Oceanport meeting Tuesday. Stay tuned for hard hitting news from les terrain du miserables

Back to reality

2008-09-13T07:42:00.004-04:00

After a summer of covering bar crawls and bikini contests, it is time to hit the municipal meeting circuit!

Instead of balling at the The Borgata or soaking up The Haskell at Monmouth Park, I will be checking receipts for A.C. hotels (a favorite haunt of the League of Municipalities, and for good reason) and checking for pollution near the ponies.

For an unspecified length I will be covering Oceanport and Fair Haven for Greater Media. I have also committed to cover Middletown and various other governmental functions for Art Gallagher's blog, More Monmouth Musings.

Fishing limits have anglers up in arms

2008-06-24T23:41:00.003-04:00

Keyport officials aim to balance needs of all waterfront visitors
BY JJ SULLIVAN III Correspondent

Bill Ahimovic has been fishing in Keyport for more than 30 years. When he was younger, he went fishing with his father. A father himself now, Ahimovic sometimes takes his young daughter to fish his favorite spot.

However, the Laurence Harbor resident is among a group of anglers- some of whom voiced their discontent at the last Borough Council meeting - who have been upset by recently adopted limitations on fishing and crabbing.

The council passed an ordinance last month allowing the borough administrator to create guidelines prohibiting certain conduct near the waterfront promenade.

And those rules, some of which regulate recreational fishermen's access to Raritan Bay, have local anglers up in arms.

For the entire story, check out the June 25 edition of The Independent.

Ramblings on life at the Jersey Shore

2008-06-24T05:06:00.004-04:00

Return of the Funnel: All work and no play makes for a bad summer and an even worse existence. It seems in order to get ahead today, you need to put in at least 60 hours a week. Sometimes a trip to the shore can remind us who we were, who we are, and why we work so hard.

For real journalism and similar tangents, check out the beach blogs at NJ.com's Everything Shore section

Police tag graffiti suspect

2008-06-24T04:28:00.004-04:00

Union Beach man charged with graffiti spree in local towns
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

Authorities charged a Union Beach man with 25 counts of criminal mischief, with the potential for more charges to come, after a seven-month investigation identified David Diehl as the lone suspect behind a graffiti spree that left significant property damage in at least 12 municipalities across northern Monmouth and Middlesex counties.

Diehl, of Clark Avenue, was arrested June 5 after investigators concluded that the 20-year-old was the graffiti artist responsible for a seven-month spree of vandalism in which both private and public property was substantially damaged by his actions, police said.

The graffiti was spread over a relatively far-flung area, with identical images of the tag "CHUD" appearing on Keansburg stop signs, the Woodbridge mall, along the East Brunswick highway, on the side of Route 287 overpasses, and behind Red Bank Catholic High School. Police said Diehl uses the tag CHUD.

A June 5 traffic stop revealed Diehl's pickup truck to be a "mobile art studio," according to Union Beach Detective Michael Woodrow, the arresting officer.

"[Diehl's pickup truck] was found to contain spray-paint cans, small paint markers and other art paraphernalia" that would be used in painting graffiti, he said.

Union Beach police charged Diehl with a single count of third-degree criminal mischief, the first and most serious of the 25 criminal mischief charges filed by municipalities thus far.

He was released from custody in lieu of $10,000 bail. However, the Union Beach resident would soon have to deal with officers from neighboring police departments.

Police from Keyport, Holmdel, Keansburg and Hazlet have since charged Diehl with varying counts of criminal mischief since his initial arrest. Red Bank police were unavailable before press time to comment on the presence of any tags believed to be Diehl's.

In addition to the towns already mentioned, officials raised the possibility that Diehl was allegedly responsible for similar graffiti found in Old Bridge, Marlboro, Manalapan, Sayreville, Edison and New Brunswick.

Keansburg police charged Diehl with 20 counts of criminal mischief for the alleged spray-painting of various signs and property throughout the borough, Detective Sgt. Michael White said. Diehl was released after bail was set at $2,500.

The arrest by the Union Beach detective was the culmination of a lengthy investigation that involved the use of both surveillance and online resources, authorities said.

"Criminal mischief is a crime seldom solved by law enforcement officials," Woodrow said. "But a significant amount of damage can be incurred by these transgressions against the law."

Hazlet police charged Diehl with two counts of criminal mischief, according to Detective Jerry Burgos. Burgos said one of the charges resulted from a February 2008 incident in which Diehl allegedly used a paint marker to write "CHUD" on the hood of a patrol car while the officer driving the cruiser went inside the Wawa located on Route 36.

"He defaced the patrol car because someone dared him," Burgos said, referring to the alleged impetus behind Diehl's supposed actions.

Burgos said police believe Diehl uses the tag names of "CHUD" and "Sponge."

Woodrow stated he would not be surprised to see more charges levied against Diehl as municipalities continue to discover the presence of both "CHUD" and "Sponge."

The detective who made the arrest said the tag "CHUD" was an homage to a popular horror movie, "C.H.U.D." [the letters represent the film's probable antagonist, a cannibalistic humanoid underground dweller]. Police believe "Sponge" may be an apparent reference to the cartoon "SpongeBob SquarePants."

In recent months, the tag artist was only identifiable to authorities through the oft-noticed tags anonymously etched upon concrete structures, highway corridors and two-lane bridges. Officials estimated that the alleged graffiti artist has thrown up roughly 100 of his signatures in and around areas of the two counties.

Detective Mark Hafner of the Keyport Police Department said Diehl faced two counts of criminal mischief, both relating to instances in which his reported tag appeared on the windows of a commercial business and an overpass at the intersection of Maple Place and Route 35.

Hafner said before Union Beach police identified Diehl as the alleged offender, some PBA officials from the Bayshore region of Monmouth County had discussed increased networking with their counterparts as a way to facilitate a solution to the growing graffiti problem.

"We had talked about taking the issue public and offering a reward," Hafner said. "But before we could,Woodrow made the arrest."

Officials said Diehl was allegedly responsible for roughly $2,000 worth of damages in his hometown. Woodrow estimated that the potential expense of covering up the graffiti could end up costing thousands of dollars more.

According to New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice 2C:17-3, charges issued for property damage under $500 are considered disorderly persons offenses. Fourth degree criminal mischief is levied when damages are valued between $500 and $2,000. Third-degree criminal mischief covers damages valued between $2,000 and $75,000, according to the state code.

The punishment for conviction on a single count of criminal mischief would vary depending on the amount of damage, Burgos said. If the conviction for a disorderly persons offense involves graffiti, the party at fault could be required to give the owner of the damaged property monetary restitution, he added.

"There is a broad range of sentencing possibilities," the Hazlet detective concluded. "For example, Union Beach has charged [Diehl] with third-degree criminal mischief; so right now [Union Beach] could have enough damage to merit possible jail time. A single count of third-degree criminal mischief could result in a five-year stint behind bars."

Diehl was unavailable for comment before press time. For continued coverage of this issue and more, check out this week's edition of The Independent.

Keyport Garden club encourages education, beautification

2008-06-24T04:21:00.006-04:00

New group aims for cleaner, more attractive Keyport
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

As Keyport officials put the finishing touches on a newly revamped waterfront promenade, a group of 25 volunteers joined the community's redevelopment efforts, with hopes of using their gardening skills to increase the borough's aesthetic appeal.

At the June 14 plant sale, members of the Keyport Garden Club (KGC) continued to raise awareness about the importance of reducing waste. The club's general goals reflect three themes, education, beautification and fertilization, which, although seemingly unrelated, have a connection that the club members were anxious to explain at the plant sale.

Beneath a canopy of dense foliage, the KGC set up tents, tables and floral displays on the lawn of Central School. The plant sale was the group's first official fundraiser since its establishment in January. According to event organizers, the turnout exceeded all expectations.

The resident authority of the horticultural benefit was KBC member and Monmouth County master gardener Clare Skeen. She spent the day giving demonstrations on mixing compost, explaining that the practice was a simple way to erase an individual's "carbon footprint" and other adverse effects on the environment.

"Education, beautification and fertilization - those are all things [the KBC] certainly stands for," she said.

For Skeen, the plant sale was a way to raise money while alerting the community to the benefits of waste reduction.

"It is important to educate the public about how refuse like grass clippings and table scraps can be made into something valuable," Skeen said. "Instead of buying a bag of compost for $15, why not use your garbage to create the same exact thing? I put out one less can of garbage each week because I utilize what would usually be regarded as waste."

According to Skeen, making good compost is akin to making lasagna.

"It's a matter of layering your carbon materials with your nitrogen materials," she explained. "The correct ratio is two parts carbon to one part nitrogen. The ideal temperature range is between 110 and 130 degrees. This can be done in a plastic bin made specifically for composting, or by simply sectioning off a corner of your backyard."

Skeen said if the correct recipe is followed, the result will be healthier soil with enhanced structure and increased cultivatability, or tilth, assuming the compost has received the proper amount of water and is allowed to aerate.

According to Skeen, "Good compost should be odorless and have the consistency of a damp sponge. Without costing a nickel, you could have the best fertilizermoney can buy."

To earn the respected title of master gardener, Skeen underwent 60 hours of intensive classroom instruction from Rutgers University professors, as well as from industry professionals.

After successfully completing the program in 2007, the Keyport resident next took a course in master composting.

"Our first class was spent at the Monmouth County landfill in Tinton Falls," said Skeen, describing the frustration she felt when observing firsthand the heaps of trash that could have been turned into topnotch soil. "It was really shocking to see the sheer amount of garbage that could have been put to efficient use."

The plants available for purchase last weekend were an impressive assortment, with herb boxes and nursery plants scattered among vivid red and yellow flora. The most popular items of the day were hanging perennials, garnering noticeable attention from the steady stream of foot traffic drawn into town for the municipal-wide garage sale.

According to Skeen, the centerpiece of the sale was the Ramapo tomato, a special tomato grown from seed developed at Rutgers. "This was the first year the seeds were available for master gardeners to purchase," she said. "[Ramapo tomatoes] are truly deserving of the title 'world famous.' "

Despite the stifling heat,more than 100 people came out, purchasing half of the stock.Although unsure of the total amount raised, KGC member Nuray Aykin said proceeds from the benefit would help establish more floral arrangements within the borough, thereby increasing the quality of Keyport's physical appearance, bringing the KBC one step closer to its goal of beautification.

"This is our first year, so we have a small budget, but that has not stopped us from making a tangible contribution," said Aykin, citing the flowerbeds surrounding both the library and the town's four welcome signs. "We have also grown community gardens, which produce vegetables that are given to a Keansburg homeless shelter."

According to a press release issued by Councilwoman Christine Bolte, "The club looks to encourage civic pride in the community and enhance the natural beauty of Keyport's neighborhoods, public spaces and highway corridors."

The sale was scheduled to run from 8 a.m. to noon, but the dedicated volunteers were still manning their posts at half past one. The sale continued into the afternoon as drivers continued to pull over, creating a constant trickle of bargain hunters.

Rather than complain about the extended hours, clubmembers were enthused by the success of their first benefit.

"The KGC offers citizens the chance to meet terrific people who are determined to make our town as visually attractive as possible," Skeen said. "It is amazing howmany dedicated gardeners live in Keyport."

At the end of the day, KGC members were tasked with making sure the leftover plants lived to see another sale.

"Members will take the remaining plants home and baby-sit them, making sure they get the proper treatment and stay healthy until our next scheduled sale," Aykin said. "It is not easy caring for the plants, but the end resultmakes the efforts worthwhile.We are planning to make Keyport a cleaner place; that is our ultimate goal, and I believe we are making a difference."

For more stories from Northern Monmouth County, check out the weekly edition of The Independent.

Belmar cops fight lower crime levels over holiday; Mayor hints at desire to end the abundance of rental units

2008-06-04T14:09:00.003-04:00

by JJ Sullivan
Wednesday June 04, 2008, 10:43 AM

According to an Asbury Park Press report, Belmar police issued fewer summonses during the 2008 Memorial Day weekend than the last holiday.

Mayor Kenneth Pringle said the lower levels of crime added credence to his belief that the borough's long-held desire to eliminate rowdy summer renters and replace them with year-long residents remained a sound objective that was being actively considered. Pringle's wish is one undoubtedly shared by a percentage of homeowners who reside near the shore for the entirety of the year.

However, the proposed transformation of Belmar from a seasonal retreat to a residential community would prove disastrous to area businesses. The borough is essentially biting the hand that feeds its constituents, as local commerce would suffer immense losses after driving out the area's biggest cash cow: 'bennys'

For the rest of the post, follow the link to NJ.com

Officials: Dead bluefish likely from fishing boat

2008-06-03T22:50:00.004-04:00

BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

KEYPORT - The remains of approximately three dozen bluefish littered the borough's recently unveiled boat ramp May 28, forcing officials to investigate whether the incident was related to the expiration of over a million bunker fish last September.

NewYork/NewJersey Baykeeper Executive Director Deborah Mans said roughly two dozen to four dozen bluefish carcasses were strewn along the Keyport coastline late Wednesday afternoon. By Thursday, May 30, the majority of the remains had either been carried out by the tide or consumed by hungry scavengers.

On June 2, officials said water tests conducted by the Monmouth County Board of Health indicated that the bluefish were not victims of deficient oxygen levels in the Raritan Bay, and were most likely caught and dumped overboard by a fishing boat.

For the entire story, click here to go to the June 4 edition of The Independent.

Keyport senior lobbies for added bus stops

2008-06-03T22:45:00.003-04:00

BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

KEYPORT- Borough officials are working to establish new bus stops for senior citizens living in the municipality's two largest age-restricted communities, Mayor Robert Bergen said last week.

Residents of the Bethany complex, 500 Broad St., and the Legion Apartment Complex, 50 Beers St., have raised concerns over the lack of accessible public transportation in their immediate vicinity, and say additional stops are needed along the current NJ Transit bus route.

Bergen said the Borough Council had tasked Borough Administrator Peter Valesi with discussing the project's feasibility with NJ Transit and the state Department of Transportation (DOT). The mayor said he expects a report from Valesi regarding the status of the project during the June 10 council meeting.

For the entire story, click here to go to the June 4 edition of The Independent.

Two men charged with stealing 75 handguns

2008-06-03T22:41:00.001-04:00

Firearms reported missing from FedEx warehouse in Eatontown

EATONTOWN - Two Monmouth County men have been charged with selling handguns that were stolen from an Eatontown-based FedEx warehouse, according to police.

John Sozomenou, 32, of Aberdeen, and James Dolan, 28, a resident of Keyport and a FedEx employee, are being charged by the Jersey City Police Department with 32 counts of unlawful possession of a weapon and receiving stolen property, according to police reports.

The men were charged after 75 handguns were reported missing from a FedEx warehouse located on IndustrialWayWest, according to police reports.

According to Jersey City Police Lt. Edgar Martinez, members of the department'sMajor Case Unit received an anonymous tip, leading officers to conduct a 48-hour stakeout of the Marion Gardens housing project located in the city, which resulted in the arrests of Dolan and Sozomenou.

For the entire story, read the July 4 edition of The Independent.

Keyport Fire cos. continue a century-old tradition

2008-06-03T14:26:00.002-04:00

Annual inspection of fire companies dates to 1891
BY J.J. SULLIVAN III Correspondent

KEYPORT - Since 1891, the seven fire companies serving under the auspices of the Keyport Fire Department (KFD) have taken part in an annual inspection. Pursuant to a local ordinance, fire officials conduct the yearly evaluation to ensure the adequate maintenance of emergency vehicles and apparatus.

Over the course of 117 years, the annual KFD inspection has evolved into a competitive social event. While still intended to encourage and reward the proper maintenance and continued functionality of emergency equipment, the annual ritual has become part safety drill, part pep rally and part public spectacle.

For the rest of the story, follow the link to The Independent.

The Daily Kos: Clinton supporters embarrass themselves

2008-06-03T14:05:00.004-04:00

The Daily Kos is regarded by many to be the country's most influential Democratic blogger. His public fallout with Clinton supporters over allegations that Kos was too hard on her campaign reverberated throughout cyberspace, and was beautifully detailed in the last edition of Vanity Fair. Now with news that Hilary Clinton is calling her closest advisers and fundraisers together, the end seems finally at hand for the former First Lady.

To put the icing on the cake, The Daily Kos has repeatedly updated a section of the Web site, entitled "Clinton Supporters Embarrass Themselves," solely dedicated to exposing the true nature of her most vocal supporters. Check out this lady and see if you understand where Kos is coming from:

Asbury Park hopes new businesses stave off transients, etc

2008-05-22T07:52:00.002-04:00

Several new Asbury Park retail stores will open for business this Memorial Day, while other unfinished projects are hustling toward completion. Some new operations are ready to go, others need time before they are up-and-running. All are hoping to contribute to the economic resurgance of the city, hopeful that opening day crowds will trickle down to the city beach.

For the rest of the story, follow the link to NJ.com Jersey Shore Blog

Keyport historian describes 19th century life to Central School third-graders

2008-05-21T04:37:00.008-04:00

KEYPORT- Third-graders from Central School caught a glimpse of Keyport without electricity and other modern conveniences during a presentation given by borough historian Jack Jeandron. On May 13, Jeandron spoke to the students about the rough daily routine in post-Colonial Monmouth County.

The presentation took place as Keyport is poised for the commencement of a centennial celebration held to honor the seaport's legacy. Although the borough of Keyport was officially founded 100 years ago, the area was a bustling seaport since the 1830s, according to the borough historian.

The crash course in borough history, given on the eve of the centennial parade, brought awareness to the modern amenities available in contemporary society like the electric light bulb.
Thomas Edison devised the world's first incandescent light bulb from his Menlo Park home in 1897.

However, harnessing electricity for mainstream use was still decades away.According to Jack Jeandron, life was harsh for the residents of Keyport before the widespread availability of electricity.

"During the infancy of electricity, the commodity was enjoyed only in the wealthiest of households," he said. "Even after the popular introduction of the lamp, light bulbs were often exclusive to the rich."

Life without electricity was nearly unfathomable to the third-grade class, which has apparently grown accustomed to the comforts of drive-through meals, video games and nightlights. The use of kerosene lamps left many pupils perplexed.

According to Agnes Jeandron, "Times were tough. Someone in the family had to wake early to stoke the embers in the stove in order to get the fire going and prepare the day'smeals. These were not easy tasks; they were all-day affairs."

For the entire article, visit The Independent.

Budget cuts to police department draw outcry

2008-05-20T01:39:00.002-04:00

KEYPORT - The Borough Council met head-on with the public backlash sparked by cuts in the police department's overtime fund at a contentious meeting last week.

Residents were outspoken in their opposition, enlisting various experts and law enforcement officials to make an appearance in a show of both solidarity and support for the Keyport Police Department (KPD).

A special agent with the FBI, the Highlands police chief and the borough superintendent of schools were a few of those who voiced their support for the police department at the public budget meeting May 6. For two hours, the borough hall courtroom was teaming with people denouncing proposed funding cuts to the KPD.

For the rest of the story, follow the link to The Independent.

Obama dominates the 'White' states

2008-05-19T14:17:00.003-04:00

I really don't know what Barack is trying to prove with this chart, but it would seem that Mr. Obama was victorious during primaries held in 10 of the 15 'most caucasian' states in the Union; we are talking WHITE!

All 15 states either form the northernmost parts of New England, or the scariest parts of fly-over country (AKA the Midwest)

Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Idaho and Wyoming, among others, all chose Obama as their preferred democratic candidate. Click on the headline to see for yourself. Now that Barack has outed the race card, it would seem he is going for the guilt-vote. Not in NJ, buddy!

Dope-heads convert dead body into human "bong"

2008-05-12T08:48:00.006-04:00

I do not know what is going on in the suburbs of Houstin, Tex., but it would seem that the local teenagers are in need of an outlet for their boredom, which has reflected intself in a morbid fashion. According to the Houston Chronicle, three area teens exhumed a dead body from a local cemetary, seperating the head from the rest of the corpse. The three males then used the decapitated head to fashion a makeshift marijuana-smoking device, often referred to as a 'bong', after which they proceeded to use the device to ingest illegal drugs.

According to the report,"The Kingwood teenager's story of decapitating a corpse and using the head to smoke marijuana was so outlandish that at first Houston Police Department senior police officer Jim Adkins did not believe it. Yet, Kevin Wade Jones Jr., 17, appeared almost indifferent as he relayed the bizarre description of his and two friends' activities at an Humble area graveyard, Adkins said."

Also directly from the article, "Jones claimed he and his friends used shovels to dig up the body and removed the corpse's head with a garden tool, Adkins said. Jones also revealed he and the other two boys took the severed head to the juvenile's home, where they used the skull as a "bong" to smoke marijuana, the officer said."

For the entire article, please follow the link to the Houstin Chronicle; must read to believe.

The Deadline: Third Appolonia finally indicted after two other bros were sentenced for roles in Operation Bid Rig

2008-05-07T01:51:00.000-04:00

The Deadline: Third Appolonia finally indicted after two other bros were sentenced for roles in Operation Bid Rig

Alleged Aberdeen cat killer indicted on 19 counts of animal cruelty, APP reports

2008-05-05T09:57:00.007-04:00

Curiosity did not kill these cats, he did

Anthony Appolonia, 50, Aberdeen, has been indicted by a Monmmouth County grand jury on 19 counts of animal cruelty, according to a report on the APP Web site.

Appolonia had been awaiting arraignment in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) since his Dec. 21, 2007, arrest on allegations of animal abuse. Anthony is being held in lieu of $210,000 bail, a county record for charges of animal abuse. Anthony allegedly confessed to torturing and murdering 14 cats over a nine-week period. Anthony obtained about 20 cats during that time frame, according to Monmouth County SPCA Chief of Police Victor Amato.

According to the APP report, "The SPCA investigation determined that between Oct & Dec of 2007, Appolonia had acquired approximately 19 cats by answering adoption ads in local papers."

Appolonia lived alone in a first-floor apartment at Ken’s Gardens, Aberdeen. Amato has said that Appolonia reported he would “play with a cat” until it showed “some sign of aggression.” Then, Appolonia reportedly beat the felines until they were “bloodied with broken bones.” Subsequently, Appolonia would reportedly allow the cats to linger until finally being put to death in the apartment’s toilet. If a cat were too large for being killed in the toilet, the adjacent bathtub would be used to dispose of them.

Police arrested Appolonia Dec. 21, after they received a tip from a long-time animal rights advocate John Casale.During a 45 minutes encounter inside the Appolonia residence, on Dec. 18, Casale said Appolonia denied he had received any cats during the past month. However, Casale said he saw multiple classified sections lying in plain view, with advertisements for free cats circled. Casale said, “That’s when the hairs on the back of my neck stood up, because [I believed] he was lying.” Casale said he was already aware that Appolonia had received 10 cats from a Lakewood woman, which contradicted his story.

The Aberdeen man had been in custody for five days on animal cruelty charges before landing in the infirmary at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Freehold, by Wednesday, Dec. 26. MCCI officals would not discuss the details. There had been unconfirmed reports that Appolonia had fallen victim to "jail justice," a form of ethics among prisoners that brands child molesters, kid killers and (apparently) pet killers as deserving of unimaginable punishment for their abuse of the defenseless. Those assertions had been uniformly denied by jail officials.

According to the APP article, Appololia is facing 5 years in prison for each of the 19 counts of animal cruelty. The case is set for arraignment in Freehold before Judge Edward Neafsey. Representing Appolonia is public defendant John Koufos.

Follow this link to the APP Web site for all the details.

Playoff loss leads to widespread consensus: Life is not fair

2008-05-05T09:57:00.004-04:00

Last night, my beloved blue shirts lost in overtime to Geno Malkin, Syd "The Kid" Crosby and Staal's younger brother. Two heartbreaking losses in O.T., not to mention the 3-goal lead they failed to maintain in Game 1. After losing the series 4-1, I can now take an ounce of solace in knowing that we (we being the NY Rangers, of course) sent Marty Brodeur home tearing up like a woman. Regardless, the Keystone State can enjoy an all-Philly Eastern Conference final...hopefully the Philly fans will put some of their bottled-up aggression to good use by pummeling each other until the force causes some sort of brain wave stimulation. It is asking a lot, but never underestimate the brutish and crass nature of a Flyers fan. So PA hockey fans: Instead of singling out the weakest guy wearing an opposing jersey and pretending he is your father, how about you take a quick reality check: It's only a game, AND THE GIANTS WONT THE SUPER BOWL (WINK WINK PAULY, TR AND THE REST OF THE IGGLES FAITHFUL)

Flood map-mania: (yellow rafts for sale)

2008-05-03T16:29:00.005-04:00

All Bayshore residents should read the press release from Frank Pallone regarding his effort to galvanize the local populace into taking a stand against recently revised FEMA flood zones. Follow this link to Melissa Gaffney's Web site for the press release.

Also, The Inside Clamdigger has come out swinging against Deputy Mayor Pamela Brightbill's offhanded remark concerning biased coverage during a recent committee meeting. Check out the literary thrashing unleashed by Purcell as we patiently wait for a response from Brightbill. It may be a long time...

Another article worth reading is Alyssa Passeggio's meticulous researched, revealing and disconcerting piece about the potential connection between the Highlands Bridge and the old Navesink Twin Lights Station. First fraudelent signatures, then the destruction of historic property... Whatever happens next I probably do not want to know.

Check http://www.bayshorenews.com/ for extended coverage in the coming weeks.

PNC Bank Arts Center: Open for Business (why am I not excited?)

2008-05-03T08:48:00.000-04:00

Tickets have officially gone on sale for the Summer concerts scheduled for the PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel in 2008. After the numerous tragedies that have plagued the venue last, it is hard to ascertain whether going to see a concert at the Holmdel amphitheater is worth it; given the recent criminalization of most pre-show, parking lot shenanigans, an appearance on my behalf is unlikely. I'll take my chances somewhere else, although the following concerts are must-see's (and for every reason BUT the music). In my opinion, observing these concerts firsthand could be more fascinating (and educational) than a trip to the MOMA, the Bronx Zoo and the Smithsonian COMBINED.

Aug. 12: Poison, Dokken, Sebastian Bach, $20.25-$71.25. (Sleeveless black skull T-shirt? Affirmative. Tight black denim jeans with knee-high Doc Marten's? Affirmative. An abundance of trailer homes 'camping' outside the arena? Affirmative. Mullet-tude at level 10? Affirmative. Likelihood of blatantly homoerotic mosh pits? 100 percent

Aug. 21: Journey, Heart, Cheap Trick, $25-$125. (Journey fans: Don't stop believing... in moving out of your mother's basement)

Aug. 22:Toby Keith, Montgomery Gentry, $39-$74. (Osama, I know how much you loved Keith's retaliatory album, Shock N Y'all, but I do not think Toby would appreciate your presence, no matter how many signed albums you have purchased off of E-Bay:Al-Quaeda: have you forgotten, Osama?? We have not)

For the entire listing of summer concerts, follow the link to NJ.com

Photo: property of Rob Tornoe, a nationally-acclaimed editorial cartoonist

Tax rebates: The answer to the current U.S. recession? Skeptics are doubtful, the Treasury Department is hopeful

2008-04-28T22:40:00.005-04:00

This week, the federal government began issuing electronic tax rebates as part of a $168 billion stimulus plan aimed at bolstering the stalling economy. The stimulus plan, approved by Congress in February, hoped to jumpstart stagnant U.S. economic activity through an increase in consumer spending. According to the New York Times, the Treasury Department planned on sending 7.7 million Americans electronic rebates by the end of this week. Andrew DeSouza, a Treasury Department spokesman, said the government would begin mailing checks on May 9. DeSouza said he expected the majority of the130 million rebates to be mailed by early July. The Treasury Department spokesman said the program called for $152 billion in rebates and tax incentives for 2008, with $16 billion in rebates planned for 2009.

According to the New York Times article, “The stimulus plan provides tax rebates of up to $600 for individuals and up to $1,200 for couples filing jointly, with an additional payments for families of $300 per child. Under the rules of the plan, payments will be reduced for people with adjusted 2007 gross incomes above $75,000 and for couples with incomes above $150,000. Taxpayers earning above a certain amount – for example an individual with no children making $87,000 – are not eligible.”

The predicted effects of the stimulus plan are uncertain. A 2001 study of similar rebates found that most consumers either saved the money or used it to pay off debts, the article said. “The study of 2001 tax rebates found that 22 percent of respondents said they would spend the money, 46 percent said they would use it to pay off debts and 32 percent said they would save it,” the article stated.

For all the details and the full article, follow the link to the New York Times Web site.

Santeria rituals performed on Spring Lake beaches, 2 from North Bergen charged in relation to incident

2008-04-28T18:46:00.018-04:00

AMATO: incident has possible connections to similar discoveries in Ocean Grove and Keansburg

Sublime did not practice Santeria. However, some who haunt the Jersey Shore do.

According to the APP Web site, Spring Lake police discovered the discarded remains of headless chickens, decapitated guinea hens and exotic fruits along the otherwise-pristine beachfront. Authorities believe the animals were killed as part of a religious rite. The incident could be related to similar findings uncovered in the sand and surf of nearby shore towns. Scattered along the Monmouth County coastline, the grisly discoveries are believed to be the remnants of a Santeria ritual, according to the article. Authorities have charged Diana Hernandez,51, and son Alain Hernandez, 32, both of North Bergen, in relation to the incident. The mother and son pair have been charged with 10 counts of animal cruelty, Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Victor "Buddy" Amato said.

At approximately 7:45 p.m. a witness observed a small group of individuals running toward the ocean. According to the SPCA chief, the group carried four large plastic bags containing unknown items and placed them in the surf. "This aroused the suspicion of the witness, who did not know what the bags contained. Before proceeding with an investigation into the contents of the bags, the witness first jotted down the license plate number of the car carrying the group as it drove away," he said. After the group left the area, the witness found three of the four bags. Upon further investigation, the plastic bags were revealed the contain the mutilated remains of pigeons, guinea hens, ducks and chickens. "The witness immediately called the Spring Lake Police Department, who in turn notified me of the situation," according to Amato.

Arriving at roughly 9:45 p.m., authorities had used the license plate to get the owner's information. "I called 411 to get [the Hernandez' number]. I had a conversation with [Diana and Alain], telling them both separately that we needed to have a conversation," the SPCA chief said.

Amato said he met with Diana and Alain at the Spring Lake Police Department on Monday, April 28, where he charged the two with 10 separate counts of animal abuse each. "I charged both of them with 10 counts of animal cruelty. They were in fact more animals than that, but some got washed away by the tide," he said.

Amato said officials retrieved at least three bags filled with decapitated birds, fruit, vegetables, coins and other symbolic trinkets. Among the miscellaneous items was a one-dollar bill branded with the number 15. "They were essentially offering up these items in a religious ritual. They told me that the ritual was done to compel the god of wealth into bringing them good fortune and riches," he said.

According to Amato, the ocean water embodied the cleansing effects of the ritual.The SPCA chief said similar incidents have taken place in Ocean Grove and Keansburg over the past few weeks.

The hearing for Diana and Alain Hernendez was scheduled for May 21 in Spring Lake, according to the APP.

The recent incident was said to have connections to similar findings Ocean Grove and Keansburg, where officials found the decapitated head of a sheep or lamb.

Santeria was briefly described as a religion that combines elements of Christian tradition with ancient African custom. The hybrid system of worship was formed in the colonial era, during the transfer of African peoples across the Atlantic to Christian societies with European values. The use of animal sacrifice in Santeria caused the general public to associate the practice with various forms of black magic, voodoo and the occult.

Amato told the APP that his investigation has led to info indicating that the animal remains were dumped into the Atlantic "as part of a ritualistic cleansing of the sacrificed animals."

The article said a 1993 U.S. Supreme Court decision voided a Hialaeh, Florida-ordinance prohibiting the ritual killing of animals not used as food. "The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, Fort Worth, Texas, is scheduled to hear an appeal by a Euless Santero challenging an ordinance that bans animal sacrifice, court filings show."

Follow the link to the APP article for the rest of the story.

Examples of unbridled candor: Tell us how you really feel

2008-04-24T19:44:00.004-04:00

Beautiful sign writing...beautiful! Short. Concise. Effective. Conveys anything and everything one would ever need to know about the gas station supervisor and highway officials.

Belmar badges will increase 20 percent for 2008 seasonal pass

2008-04-24T09:25:00.007-04:00

According to a recent article on the APP Web site, the cost of an adult beach badge in Belmar increased by 20 percent, from $50 to $60. Living adjacent to the seasonal resort community, I expect this increase in fees will generate a substanstial amount of revenue that can go toward services for the year-long residents of Belmar. For the summer visitors, the pricier badges would amount to roughly 1 drink at D'Jais, or 1/25 of a bottle at a ritzier, trendier night clubs near Monmouth University or Long Branch (whatever place we end up at, it is a big ticket line item because that is how we 'roll.') Summer cannot come soon enough.

Penned by Erik Larsen, this quote from the article quotes a resident of Ocean Avenue as seemingly blighted by the increase: "I think it's a ... real tragedy for both families and tourism, and undoubtedly it will drive people away," said Kevin Fay, 58, of Ocean Avenue. "Fewer people are going to come to Belmar. And (a council member's) comment about that it's not going to affect the taxpayer, it most certainly will be taxpayers, and it's going to be in multiples of $10 for many families."

Personally, I disagree with Fay. Living within houses of the boardwalk and Ocean Avenue myself, I know that most of the families on my block would be unfettered by an increase of $10 for unlimited use of the beach. I know the "Benny's" from North Jersey would shrink with anger if they thought a fee increase of 20 percent would prevent them from the three months of paradise that has come to define "The Jersey Shore."

Follow the link for the proper article at APP online.

Tax Assessor faces 15-day suspension without pay for role in delaying 2008 Middletown revaluation

2008-04-24T07:39:00.004-04:00

A story that I covered extensively during my time at The Courier was recently decided. In a closed public session featuring representatives from the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, Middletown Tax Assessor Charles Heck learned he could face a two-week suspension without pay. No word on whether Mr. Heck's mother intends on grounding him and docking his allowance, as well. For the entire, unsarcastic article follow the link to Jamie Romm's piece for the GM News.

Tax assessor faces two-week suspension Heck faces penalty for missed reval filing deadline
BY JAMIE ROMM Staff Writer

MIDDLETOWN - The township's tax assessor could face a suspension of 15 working days without pay for failing to submit the municipality's 2008 revaluation data on time, according to Monmouth County Tax Administrator Matthew Clark.

After three months of hearings, Middletown Tax Assessor Charles Heck and the municipality are awaiting word about when he would begin serving his suspension, according to Clark.

The state Attorney General's Office is currently working on a disciplinary agreement for Heck that the tax board and the assessor would agree to and that the state Division of Taxation, which has the authority to impose the penalties, would approve, Clark said.

Hello Kitty, say it ain't so!

2008-04-24T03:30:00.006-04:00

According to a report from http://www.japundit.com/, Hello Kitty has sank to even deeper levels of depravity. As if adorning herself on combat-ready Kalashnikovs wasn't enough, it seems Ms. Kitty has jumped feet first into the cocaine distribution business. The photo included a small caption: "Guatamalan police led a drug bust on April 13th that captured 1.2 tons (!) of cocaine on its way to Mexico. Obviously, we doesn't usually report on the war on drugs, unless..." [see picture]

I also included a picture of another model of the Japanese icon's personalized AK-47 (better yet, the HK-47):, as well as a link to a video that bears no relevance to the aforementioned topic. It is just a hilarious video of an old woman in a wheel chair getting some trigger time on the range. There are truly remarkable things happening in fly-over country. This clip is one of them.

M'town BOE "jubilant" over approval of 08/09 school budget

2008-04-23T17:11:00.003-04:00

Residents approve $140.6 million school budget

By J.J. SULLIVAN III

MIDDLETOWN- Residents of Monmouth County's largest municipality passed the 2008-09 school budget on April 15, by a vote of 2,787 to 2,362. The new school budget features a tax levy of $115.6 million, an increase of 2.9 percent from 2007. The school tax rate increased 6.7 cents, to $2.402 per $100 of assessed property value. The total school tax rate for a household assessed at $200,000 would amount to $4,803, an increase of $135 from the previous fiscal year. According to the Board of Education (BOE) Superintendant Karen Bilbao, this would be the lowest school tax increase in five years. Bilbao said officials were "jubilant" about the passing of the budget. "We are extremely grateful to the community for their support of our budget. [BOE officials] have a detailed plan for progress. In order to continue to move forward with our plans, we needed the residents to approve the budget as it was proposed," she said.

The budget for the upcoming fiscal year totaled $140.6 million, a new annual increase of 3.4 percent. The Middletown school district is comprised of 17 schools and over 10,000 pupils, according to officials. Bilbao said the new budget included four new bus routes, including one for children in a multi-age kindergarten program. Employee salaries accounted for a bulk of the spending plan, roughly $88.4 million, rising 3.1 percent from the last fiscal year. "We work very hard to be very responsible with our spending. Transparency is a key goal for our school district. The biggest increases are always salaries. The new budget included the addition of five new positions," she said. The new positions included two reading specialists, two world language specialists and one collaborative teacher for special education and academic assistance, Bilbao explained. All school budgets were increased by 4 percent, the superintendent added.

Bilbao seemed very happy with the adoption of the budget. She said for the township to adequately service the children, the cost increases were necessary. Thus, the following pictures should serve as A WARNING for those of you who are thinking of voting against the budget next April.

Middletown's bravest battle fire at 30 Lafayette Court

2008-04-22T22:48:00.011-04:00

On Sunday, April 21, the country's largest volunteer firefighting force extinguished an inferno that threatened to engulf a residence on Lafayette Court, along Locust Point Road. Middletown Fire Department Public Information Officer and Real American Hero Andy Spears sent these photos. According to the APP article, flames engulfed the second floor and attic, threatening the entire house and the adjacent areas. The APP article said Middletown Fire Chief Vincent Falci called in the calvalry. On scene to combat the fire were members of the Belford Engine Co., Navesink Hook and Ladder Co, Belford Independent Fire Co., Middletown Fire Co. No. 1, Community Fire Co., Old Village Fire Co. and the Lincroft Fire Co.

According to the APP article, "Middletown police Sgt. Richard Deickmann said the fire is believed to have started downstairs in the two-story home; it is being investigated by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal's Office." All photography was taken by Laurie Kegley. Pictures are used courtesy of the Township of Middletown. Follow this link to the APP article by Ed Johnson. To the fearless firefighters: Keep up the great work guys. Everyone else, keep it here for the details!

Middletown firefighters quell blaze off Locust Point Road

2008-04-22T22:43:00.007-04:00

APP: Jersey Shore gas to hit record highs today

2008-04-18T04:30:00.019-04:00

The Asbury Park Press reported that today the Jersey Shore area will experience the highest gas prices on record. According to AAA, a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline was expected to reach $3.18, a cost unmatched since Sept. 10, 2005. The article said gas prices have jumped four cents since Thursday. Over the last month, the article said gas prices shot up by 14 cents. The brief APP article mentioned a Lukoil in Wall that was selling regular unleaded gas for $3.39 per gallon. This is horrifying given the fact that New Jersey has the country's cheapest petro. Follow the link to the APP Web site for the original article.

According to a separate article by the Associated Press, " Oil prices fell toward $113 a barrel Friday in light trading as the U.S. dollar made gains against the euro and other currencies. A host of supply and demand concerns in the U.S. and abroad, as well as the depreciating dollar, had pushed crude prices up as much as 4 percent this week. But the dollar gained ground on Friday."

Ethical reform catalysed by grassroots movement: Can O'Scanlon change the system?

2008-04-18T04:30:00.013-04:00

The "coming-out" press conference of former Governor James McGreevy, the recorded conversations of Operation Bid Rig and the recent conviction of Newark Mayor Sharpe James are extreme examples of the scandalous subculture that critics often associate with New Jersey politics. These spectacles of the absurd have come to embody the character of state, county and local government. Interestingly, the public outcry surrounding cuts to municipal aid has been greater than the media-fueled frenzies created by dirty politicians getting busted. Corzine's dramatic economic reforms caused a substantial negative outlash that transcended party divides.

However, ethical reform is radically different from economic reform. When speaking of the ethics of politics, the lack of incentives for internal oversight must be considered as a potential motive for legislators to neglect calls for reform.

Demands for moral and ethical reform often start at the local level. Whether it be a low standard-of-living, high taxes or the perception of ongoing injustice, the masses inevitably congregate, restoring balance to the Social Contract. Public discontent has embodied itself in popular ideals and movements, at times resulting in a reconsideration of official policy. The recent rally of flying pigs over Trenton is a testament to the power of group demonstrations. Many historians believe the mass disapproval among the American general populace dictated the course the U.S. war in Vietnam. Likewise, the espionage permitted under the presidency of Richard Nixon would have passed into history as a mere footnote had it not been for diligent public oversight. After attempting to deflect all accountability using his monolithic concept of executive authority, Nixon was impeached by Congress.

Recent scientific advances have challenged traditional views on religion. The discrepancy between academic doctrine and spiritual belief has spawned intense debate among religious fundamentalists, agnostic intellectuals and uncertain moderates. Topics like abortion and genetic cloning have spilled into the political forum, forcing legislators and public officials to declare a stance. Whether that position was decided by a moral compass or a party allegiance is up for debate.

Reform comes from both altruistic, idealistic politicians, and self-sustaining, Macchiavellian politicos. Cynics can describe political change as damage control, only done in the wake of a breaking scandal. Rarely does it amount to effective fruition. Yet an apparently earnest call for reform come from a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, the most recent in a long line of proposed bills aimed at eliminating conflicts of interest.

Beginning his first term on January 8, Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon (R-12) wasted no time pressing for a more stringent code of conduct. He co-sponsored and introduced a bill that would end the potential for state lawmakers to use their authority for personal gain. According to the State House Wire at NJAssemblyRepublicans.com, "O'Scanlon's bill, A-2585, supplements New Jersey's conflicts of interest law to prohibit members of the Legislature from entering into contracts to provide goods or services to, or perform any employment for, any municipal, county or state public entity located within their legislative districts." Fifteen percent of state legislators currently owned or operated businesses, according to a February investigation by NJBIZ magazine.

Attempts to eliminate political abuses of power are sometimes met begrudgingly by members of the existing regime. For example, efforts to stop New Jersey politicians from holding more than one public office do not pertain to legislators that are immune to the reforms because of a clause allowing the practice to continue. These "dual-office holders" have been grandfathered around new reforms. According to an April 13 report by Gannett New Jersey, government employees with two or more public jobs that collectively paid more than $100,000 have increased by 20 percent, despite attempts by legislatures to end the practice.

Patricia A. Walsh, a long-time member of the Middletown Board of Education (BOE) and Democratic candidate for Township Committee, has also become a vocal proponent for the elimination of dual-office holding. If elected in November, Walsh has promised to resign her position on the BOE. "It is time for real reform, and it is my intention to bring real reform," she said.

Walsh declared intentions to pass an ordinance similar to A-2585, disallowing elected members of the Township Committee from holding a contract with any part of the township or county. "No one who holds a municipal or county contract should serve as an elected office holder on the municipal governing body," she said.

In the halls of the New Jersey Assembly, the future of Bill A-2585 is uncertain. The proposed legislation must survive multiple rounds of votes by state legislators, before likely being sent to an investigative subcommittee. In order to make Bill A-2585 an official part of New Jersey legislature, the bill must be voted through both the state Assembly and the state Senate. Until a concentrated effort among likeminded lawmakers has agreed upon the necessity and the precise nature of ethical reforms, the prospects of achieving a truly transparent government are unlikely.

The potential for an ordinance in Middletown would be much easier, according to Walsh. "There is nothing preventing this reform from being put forward. The proposed ordinance is something that is clearly supposed to reinforce the trust in government officials, not the lack thereof. What would be the reasoning behind [the committee] not wanting to remove an area of conflict?" she asked. According to Walsh, there are over 6,000 school districts in which where you cannot hold a contract with the BOE or a claim against the BOE. Middletown is one of them. "There was no problem for any BOE member, and I see no problems in transferring the same standard of ethics to the Township Committee. This is something I will advocate that the governing body put on their agenda. If not, its something I plan to do immediately if elected," Walsh concluded.

Ethical reform from within: is it a possibility?

2008-04-17T18:21:00.001-04:00

Amnesty Intl: China gets 'gold medal for global executions'

2008-04-16T09:52:00.003-04:00

Amnesty International estimated that 374 people will be secretly executed by the Chinese government during the hosting of the Olympic games this summer in Beijing. According to the article, Amnesty's UK director Kate Allen was quoted as saying, "As the world's biggest executioner, China gets the 'gold medal' for global executions." Well, hopefully Yao Ming will still be hurt and China will not get the gold medal for basketball, as well!

Click on the link to go to The Guardian for the entire story, which includes overall estimates by Amnesty International of the severity of secret executions in China.

Breaking news: Arabs don't like us

2008-04-16T09:41:00.004-04:00

According to a BBC World Service survey, only six percent of the Arab world believes the American troop surge in Iraq was effective. The survey, conducted by the University of Maryland and Zogby International, said 80 percent of the Arab world held a negative opinion of the United States (and I care because....). Anyway, follow the link for the entire article at the BBC Web site.

"Most Arabs feel Iraqis would be able to bridge their differences if US troops left."

Survey: First draft of history a bit rough on Bush

2008-04-15T09:14:00.006-04:00

According to an informal survey of 109 professional historians conducted by the History News Network, the study found that 98 percent of the academics polled believed that the presidency of George W. Bush was/is a total failure. According to the historians polled, 61 percent considered the Bush II presidency as the worst in our country's history. In 2004, only 11.4 percent of historians polled were of that opinion. To quote the article, "Among the reasons given for [G.W.B.'s] low ratings: invading Iraq, 'tax breaks for the rich,' and alienating many nations around the world." To read the entire article, follow the link to the U.S. News & World Report.

The Raw Story: Gun shop paints Hello Kitty themes on real weapons

2008-04-15T08:55:00.008-04:00

A Wisconsin gun supply shop has been decorating assault rifles with pink images of the adorable Japanese icon, Hello Kitty. For some reason, police officers are concerned that it could lead to fatal confusion. Follow the link and read the article for all the horrifying (but true) details There is also a video of a customized Hello Kitty AK-47 in action at a firing range at the bottom of the page.

Newspapers: A dying breed

2008-04-15T08:44:00.004-04:00

According to a recent survey by the American Society of Newspaper Editors, daily newsrooms shrank by their biggest margin in three decades. For the entire story, follow the blue ink to the link.

Middletown political parties cross the Rubicon: candidates for the General Election in November are set

2008-04-10T13:34:00.003-04:00

Four candidates. Two vacancies. One majority.

Simply put, the Middletown 2008 General Election and the resulting campaigns are officially underway.

Both Republican and Democratic leaders have picked the candidates, declining the option to hold primaries. Instead, the opposing parties have selected two candidates for the crucial General Election. The municipal elections are scheduled to take place November 4, with rival candidates competing for two vacancies on the five-member governing body.

The General Election could result in the continuation of the traditional Republican majority. It could also result in the first Democratically controlled committee in over two decades.

In a press release dated March 31, the Middletown Democratic Executive Committee announced the selection of Patricia A. Walsh, a 12-year member of the Board of Education, and James Grenafage, a former career consultant management consultant, as the party candidates for the Township Committee General Election in November.

According to Middletown Public Information Officer Cindy Herschafft, Deputy Mayor Pamela Brightbill will run as a first-time incumbent on the Republican ticket, along with Anthony Fiore. Fiore is currently a member of the township Planning Board.

The decision of Committeeman Thomas Wilkens not to run in 2008 was made public through a press release issued April 7. Wilkens had been the leading vote recipient in his election year of 2005.

The Democratic Party has the chance to gain control of the committee for the first time in over two decades. With Short and Committeeman Sean Byrnes representing the remaining majority, the Democrats need only a single vote to take the majority for the first time in over two decades.

The era of Republican domination on the Township Committee would come to an end with a split election. Republicans, however, can still retain the majority by sweeping the polls.

Residents will have to wait until November to know the outcome of the election, which will have a profound impact on the future of Middletown.

For the entire story, pick up the April 10 edition of The Courier, or visit our Web site at BayshoreNews.com

Tony Mercantante named new Township Administrator

2008-04-10T13:30:00.002-04:00

The Middletown Township Committee unanimously passed a resolution, 5-0, promoting Planning Director Anthony D. Mercantante to the position of Township Administrator.

The appointment of Mercantante established a permanent replacement for Robert Czech, the longtime official who left Middletown in 2007 to serve as the county administrator. Frederick Jahn served as interim replacement while the governing body conducted an evaluation of qualified applicants to fill the vacancy.

On April 7, Mayor Gerard Scharfenberger administered the oath of office to Mercantante during the public session. "The role of township administrator is not an easy job. We need someone with Anthony's knowledge and love of Middletown," Scharfenberger said.

Committeeman Sean Byrnes said he was equally pleased with the promotion of Mercantante. "I have had the experience of observing him firsthand. I think he is a wonderful choice that is going to work out well. Mercantante has the skills needed to get the job done. I believe all the committee members are happy to have him as our administrator," Byrnes said.

Introductory budget proposed 7.2 percent increase in municipal tax rate

2008-04-10T13:26:00.002-04:00

The Middletown governing body introduced the 2008 municipal budget at the Township Committee meeting on April 7.

The current spending plan would increase the municipal tax rate by 5.1 cents per $100 of assessed value, township officials said.

The total municipal budget increased approximately $2.5 million, from $59.8 million in 2007, to the proposed amount of $62.3 million for 2008, according to Chief Financial Officer Richard Wright.

The amount of money to be raised by taxation increased by approximately $2.8 million, from $35 million in 2007 to $37.8 million in 2008, the CFO said.

Under the introductory budget, the tax rate would increase by 7.2 percent, from 70.7 cents to 75.8 cents per $100 of assessed property value, according to county tax documents.

According to Wright, a property with an assessed value of $200,000 would see an increase of roughly $101 in municipal taxes from the previous year.

For the entire story, pick up the April 10 edition of The Courier, or follow the link to The Courier Online.

DePompa-Strydio-Hoff to run for Keansburg Borough Council

2008-04-10T11:06:00.004-04:00

Three seats on the Keansburg Borough Council are up for grabs during municipal elections scheduled for May.

Mayor Lisa Strydio, Councilman George Hoff and borough resident Anthony DePompa have announced the formation of a non-partisan campaign ticket, entitled "DePompa-Strydio-Hoff."

The ticket combines both the political experience of the incumbents with an intimate knowledge of Keansburg, according to Strydio.

"The ticket of DePompa-Strydio-Hoff hopes to bring a sense of pride back to Keansburg. We want residents to be proud of where they come from," Strydio said.

During a round-table discussion with DePompa and Strydio on March 31, the two candidates said they hoped to continue improving the standard of living for residents of the borough.

For the entire story, check out the April 10 edition of The Courier.

NOTE: In the printed edition, the ticket is erroneously referred to as "Democratic." Keansburg is a predominantly non-partisan town. The ticket of DePompa-Strydio-Hoff is decidedly non-partisan, and has been so since their decision to run for office. I apologize for any confusion this may have caused.

CBS: UD students assaulted in posh Miami club plan to sue; surveillance video details carnage

2008-04-09T01:12:00.043-04:00

If a picture speaks a thousand words, than the newly-released surveillance footage of a Miami beating inside a posh night club could produce pages upon pages of brutal narrative. The scene is mired by stalled frames and the occasional picture, but the incident corraborates what three University of Delaware students have been asserting since reporting the incident to police. The silence on behalf of the night club and its parent company could seemingly be the result of the incriminating tape. See the tape for yourself by following this link to a Miami CBS affiliate and their coverage of the tragedy.

According to CBS article, Bo Dennis, the attorney for Trevor Costello, Sean Sweeney and John Merrymen IV, the assault occured after the three patrons were escorted into a "back office" after their waitress refused to produce a paper bill to validate her demands that the trio pay $700.

The article quotes Dennis as saying, "It's a deplorable situation when you have three young men that come down for Spring break expecting to have a good time...As a tourist to go into a club such as the Mansion expecting to have a good time and to basically be accosted twice; once for money for the $700 to pay it, to be strong armed and then second to be beat up. It's deploprable." Follow the link for the entire article and additional video.

I certainly agree. Trevor Costello's biggest vice is an intense love of scrapple and puppies. I cannot even imagine what stress this incident has caused him. My three friends are regular college academics simply seeking a degree. Is it a crime to ask iof waitress to see a bill for proof of payment? That is one thing engrained within UD students: diligence with honor. As my Phi Tau brothers might say, "to the...the laurels ..."

Miami Beach police have charged at least eight Club Mansion bouncers with beating three spring breakers over a disputed bar tab

2008-04-09T01:12:00.042-04:00

During my time at the University of Delaware, I had the good fortune of meeting a good group of guys with level heads who liked to have a good time. Trevor, Sean and John were three of those guys. Thus, it came as a great shock when I heard what befell three of my close friends during their recent trip to Miami during Spring Break. Apparently, asking to see your bill at an upscale South Beach night club is worthy of a Rodney King-like beating. From what I've heard, the ratio was roughly 11 bouncers to 3 patrons. Add 20 minutes. You do the math.
Here is a link to the three victims talking to a reporter after the incident. The video is from a local NBC affiliate, and has the handsome Trevor Costello, Sean Sweeney and John Merryman (IV) describing firsthand the alleged brutality subjected upon them by. [As for the "alleged", the police report has acknowledged the presence of a surveillance camera. I believe the entire incident was captured. That would seemingly eliminate all doubt as to the guilty party/parties once unveiled during discovery, if the Mansion allows the civil case to even make it that far...]

Follow this link to a youtube.com video of the local CBS affiliate covering the story so far. [NOTE: John, Trevor and Sean are not as unattractive as the suggested in the video]

Here is a link to an account of the events from an article in the Miami Herald.

Here is a link to a video of their attorney, apparently another University of Delaware alumnus, who plans to file a civil lawsuit as soon as possible and enforce the legal rights of his clients.

AP:Kearney student sees bias in textbook

2008-04-09T01:12:00.032-04:00

A Kearney High School student with a history ofruffling feather has raised valid questions about information contained in textbooks used by our public schools, according to an article at NJ.com To question the presence of the greenhouse effect is akin to questioning scientific doctrine. Not according to the textbook used by NJ high school students. To see the extent of the damage to our nation's public schools, click on the link.

Disciplinary hearing closed to public

2008-04-09T01:12:00.031-04:00

At the advice of the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), a disciplinary hearing scheduled April 9 forMiddletown Tax Assessor Charles Heck has been closed to the public, according to Monmouth County Tax Board Administrator Matthew Clark.

The disciplinary hearing was the result of a unanimous vote among the Monmouth County Board of Taxation on March 10 concerning Heck's role in delaying a long-awaited, municipal-wide revaluation of taxable property. According to Clark, "[The disciplinary hearing] is a closed session under the advice of the OAG, that is an exception to the Sunshine Law providing that matters involving potential violations of the law should be in closed session." Clark said any of the board's findings would be made public shortly after the closed meeting.

During the March 10 meeting, Clark stated, "All the evidence indicated that [Middletown] was on track to complete the revaluation. There was certainly a time frame that allowed the revaluated numbers to be on the books for 2008."

Clark previously stated that Heck's personal decision was the only matter of concern to the tax board. "Heck chose to stop [the revaluation]. It was his personal decision, according to his own testimony. A tax assessor, regardless of the details, does not have the authority to stop a revaluation at his behest," Clark said.

FEMA flood maps rile Burg council

2008-04-09T01:12:00.021-04:00

The reinspection of America's flood defenses has led to a dramatic overhaul in the flood insurance rate maps (FIRMS) of Keansburg, Borough Engineer Allan Hilla said.

The Keansburg governing body evaluated the ramifications of revised FIRMs as an additional 2,000 households were placed into high-risk areas that mandate the purchase of flood insurance.
According to county tax records, Keansburg has 3,038 residential properties listed for 2008.

The flood zone now encompasses the whole borough of Keansburg, according to the preliminary maps. Accordingly, the households are no longer protected by a levee developed in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

During the Borough Council meeting on March 26, the governing body discussed how the proposed flood maps mandated at least 65 percent of all Keansburg households obtain flood insurance. The 65 percent, or 2,000 households, did not include those already designated as high-risk areas.

Households within high-risk areas would be required to purchase flood insurance if their home is rented or if they are still paying off a mortgage, as part of the county's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. Residents who currently have flood insurance would see an increase in rates, but not to the extent that new policy seekers would incur, officials said.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an area with a high risk of flooding carries a one percent chance of being flooded over the next 100 years, or a 26 percent chance of flooding over the course of a 30-year mortgage.

The proposed changes to existing flood zones were unveiled during a public presentation on March 17. The new maps showed large sections of Port Monmouth, East Keansburg, Hazlet and North Middletown to be either within high-risk flood zones or adjacent to them.

Hilla said the new maps determined base flood elevations on the sole basis of topography. "Flood elevations established in the 1970s were used to determine the base flood elevation used in developing future flood plans through out the borough. The new maps reflect an approximate change in the base flood elevation of one foot," the borough engineer said.

FEMA officials said they would issue a second publication in April, followed by the 90-day appeal process.The borough engineer reiterated that FEMA officials said challenges would be considered exclusively on the grounds of scientific of technological inaccuracies. "The only other measures left to are to slow the process or attempt to correct the dune's deficiencies and restore accreditation," he said.The arrival of a letter of final determination begins the six-month compliance period, giving the communities six months to address any issues raised by FEMA. The tentative date FEMA officials said the maps would take effect was April 2009.

"The key reason for the dramatic change has been the decreditation of sand dunes as a flood control measure," he said, referring to the levee spanning from Waackaack Creek to East Keansburg.

"These maps are saying we have no protection at all from flooding," Councilman James Cocuzza said. Municipal Clerk Thomas Cusick estimated that the annual cost of flood insurance for some Keansburg residents would be greater than the cost of homeowner's insurance.

"The 2,000 homes outside of the flood zone will end up paying the entire rate," Cocuzza said, addressing the NFIP practice of grandfathering existing rates for current holders of flood insurance. "[Borough residents] are going to be in here screaming at us soon," Cocuzza concluded.

Army Corps of Engineers defend levee

2008-04-09T01:12:00.020-04:00

Officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) defended the legitimacy of the Keansburg flood prevention system after it was rendered obsolete by preliminary flood insurance rate maps (FIRMS) released March 17.

The new FIRMS were developed at the behest of the federal government as part of a national reassessment. This expansive undertaking redefines the details surrounding the accreditation process and re-evaluates current coastal protection measures. The Congressional push to address potential deficiencies was initiated after the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina augmented the failure of USACE-constructed levees in New Orleans.

Daniel Falt, USACE project manager for the Raritan Bay-Sandy Hook Bay Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Study, has been involved in the mitigation efforts along the Bayshore since 1998. He asserted the USACE would not relinquish efforts to secure funds for planned projects and improvements.

USACE officials asserted they were still hoping for a tentative completion date between 2010 and 2015."[USACE] is going into the analysis stage regarding the reassessment of the impact and a possible revision of our plans. But we are absolutely not abandoning this project," he said.

According to Anthony Ciarra, civil works program manager for the USACE New York District, the structure is a natural flood prevention system consisting of a sand dune behind a berm."The project has been stalled because of inadequate funding," Ciarra said. The project includes the study of Leonardo, Port Monmouth, Keyport and the Highlands. It was designed to place sand in front of the existing dunes at Keansburg, according to Ciarro.

"Our position is that the design [for the Keansburg levee] is adequate. Sand has not been placed out there since the early 1970s. It is in need of renourishment," Falt said.This type of project has low budgetary priority, according to Palt, resulting in the allocation of insufficient appropriations for planned projects in Leonardo and Port Monmouth during the fiscal year 2009. The study of the project area [from Old Bridge to Sandy Hook] was completed, but the USACE still needed a significant amount of funds to design and complete the actual construction of the project.

Renourishment efforts are projects that usually have a projected completion date of 50 years, Falt said. "It is already 2008 and we are still waiting for funding for construction," he added.

The way FEMA has defined levees has not been reflected in the current project plans. USACE officials disagree."The beach nourishment process builds up the dunes that provide protection from flooding and other potential water hazards," Falt said. The project manager said his intentions did not account for the new FEMA definitions regarding beach dunes, fills and levees. "We are working on a final evaluation report on the periodic renourishments," he said.

The estimated cost to complete the first renourishment project establishment for 2010 was an additional $32 million, according to Falt. According to USACE documents, the federal government is responsible for 65 percent of the financing, with state and local governments contributing the rest.

Middletown pays itself (?) for tickets issued by retiring officer

2008-04-09T01:12:00.010-04:00

According to a March 28 memo from Middletown Municipal Court official Vicki Whelan, 14 motor vehicle summonses written by a now-retired township police officer to municipal vehicles have been paid.

The brief memo simply gave the citation numbers involved in the case, the notice of payment of the summonses and noted that the officer would not be required to appear in court.

The summonses were issued to the municipal vehicles on Dec. 31, 2007, the day of Middletown police Cpl. Frank Holden’s retirement from the department after 20 years of service. Holden was the ticketing officer to the vehicles.

At the time the vehicles were ticketed, they were parked outside of Town Hall, according to Holden. The majority of the vehicles involved were cited for failing to be inspected. The case was initially heard in Holmdel Municipal Court last month. However, according to Holmdel Municipal Court official Marylou Donnelly, the case of State of New Jersey v. Township of Middletown was transferred back to Middletown, The specific date of the transfer was not given.

Previously, Holmdel Municipal Court Judge Mary H. Casey had scheduled the matter to be heard in Holmdel on April 2. Holden said he was disappointed by the way Middletown’s officials handled this issue. “I proposed a deal where I would have recommended to the judge that the tickets would have been merged together and the fines dismissed, saving Middletown taxpayers money,” he said. “Police officers are given a great deal of discretion and what I was trying to do was address a real safety concern regarding the township's vehicles.”

Holden explained, “Township vehicles are zooming to calls to save lives every day, and officers and residents have a right to know these vehicles are safe. As police officers, we write tickets every day to cars that are not inspected, and it’s hypocritical for police cars not to be inspected.”
Holden said finding out who is to blame for the maintenance status of the vehicles is part of the issue.

Holden said he has taken offense at some criticisms from Town Hall and has not excluded future legal action against the town. However, one of his primary concerns in this matter is for at least one witness in the case, who Holden did not identify.

The retired officer explained that the witness he noted has been harassed and even brought up on charges by the town administration in an act of what he characterized as “retaliation.” Holden noted the individual concerned has been followed and singled out because he or she had came forward as a witness.

Holden concluded, “Things have not been done right here by the township.”

Keansburg parade grows in second year

2008-04-09T01:12:00.006-04:00

Despite a two-week layover, the streets of Keansburg were adorned with shamrocks and Irish flags as hundreds of Bayshore residents helped celebrate the 2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 29.

People lined the streets to watch the envoy of bagpipers, motorcycles, classic cars and fire engines. Some observers brought chairs, while others stood waving to passing floats.
Councilman George Hoff said he was extremely pleased with the day's events, but said it was too early to be sure of the exact number of attendees. According to Hoff, "The turnout was unbelievable. I met a couple from Spotswood who rode their bikes down the Henry Hudson Trail to get here. I think the borough accomplished our goal of giving our residents something to be proud of."

Local youth groups and volunteer clubs were interspersed among processional of marching servicemen and borough officials. The parade began traversing down Main Street from Beachway Avenue shortly after 1 p.m. Janet Hartney said she has been a resident of the community for 40 years. She was present for the 25-year absence of a St. Patrick's Day Parade, although she failed to surmise the reasoning. Flanked at the knees by her 3-year old granddaughter, Shannon Trollman, Hartley lauded the parade. The longtime Keansburg resident said it was indicative of the borough's attempts to cultivate a better image among other municipalities.

regory Samman, 2, sat perched on the curb with an oversized green horn. His mother, Angela Samman, purchased the novelty item from one of the many street vendors selling toys to children. The loud rumblings of motorcycles and blaring bagpipes caught the attention of the 2-year-old, as did the candy thrown to him by borough officials. "This is his first St. Patrick's Day parade, so he is thrilled," Samman said.

After losing a bet to his brother George Hoff, Parade Committee Chairman Christopher Hoff took part in the day's festivities dressed as a leprechaun. In a bright green bowler and matching knee-high socks, Christopher Hoff greeted each of the event's groups and participants at the grandstand erected near the route's end on Beachway Avenue, across from the amusement park.

After the conclusion of the procession, residents and participants walked to the Tiki Stadium, where patrons were offered corned beef and cabbage.The Essex County chapter of the Emerald Society, one of the numerous groups of bagpipers who played during the parade, played a few last songs for the crowd before putting down their instruments for a well-deserved rest. "I did not know how we could get a better turnout than last year, but we did. [The parade] is getting popular, and the residents of Keansburg should embrace this new tradition," Hoff concluded.

10-year-old M’town musician impressed seasoned vets

2008-04-09T01:12:00.003-04:00

Ten-year-old Nick Piescor, of Middletown, said he was born to play music.

Approximately once a month, Nick plays with Jody Joseph and the Average Joes, a local professional band. "I have played at the Stone Pony 18 times already," he stated proudly. Most recently, Nick performed with the Marshall Tucker Band during a March 21 concert at the Count Basie Theater, Red Bank.

Nick’s mother, Debbie Piescor, recalled the time rock icon and Middletown native Jon Bon Jovi introduced himself to her son after watching Nick perform at the Stone Pony.

"He had the longest conversation with [Bon Jovi]. I was just standing there speechless. For Nick, it was nothing," she said. At the time, Nick was 6 years old.

The young guitarist did not pick up a toy until he was 6, according to his mother. She explained how Nick immersed himself in a world of sound, using pots and pans as a percussion set, or playing Bruce Springsteen ballads on his toy guitar. "Nick could play whatever song he heard by the time he was 2," she said. "We knew he was special from the start."

Nick was among 16 members of a musical youth group, Rockit for Kids, who were selected to perform before the Marshall Tucker Band’s performance at the Count Basie Theater. The kids, ages 8 to 16, performed for 40 minutes.

According to Nick, the lead singer of the Marshall Tucker Band approached him after the opening performance. "He asked me what my bed time was and if I could stick around and play with them," the aspiring musician said. After accepting the offer of the Southern rock veterans, the 10-year-old said he learned how to play the band's popular hit, "Can't You See," in roughly five seconds. "It was really easy," he said.

Nick said his performance drew a substantial crowd reaction. "People were screaming while I was playing guitar," he said. "It was awesome, [the lead guitarist and I] were just playing back and forth."

Nick, currently a student at Riverview Plaza School, said he first experimented with the cords of his toy guitar, a gift from his parents. Debbie said she viewed Nick's passion and talent for music as a gift.

"The guitar and singing is such a big part of his life, it's almost as essential for Nick as food and water," she said. Nick also plays the drums, bass, keyboard and harmonica. "I am pretty great at them," he said. Nick said he is also forced to take lessons for the recorder at school. "I play everything but brass," he added.

Nick talked of plans to continue his passionate pursuit of music. He hopes to soon release a four-song demo CD, including three original songs co-written with his vocal coach, Jody Joseph. Aside from that, the Middletown resident said he planned to continue his education. "You can't read your name on the marquee if you do not have an education," Nick concluded.

Lincroft fire under investigation by officials

2008-04-04T11:33:00.008-04:00

The cause of a fire that engulfed the entirety of a two and a half- story, wooden-frame Lincroft home is currently under investigation.

Middletown Police Department, the Middletown Fire Marshal, the Monmouth County Fire Marshal's Office and the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office are all involved in the effort, fire officials said April 4.

Middletown Fire Department Public Information Officer Andy Spears refused to speculate on the cause of the blaze, but said investigators were looking for the point of origin, continuing efforts on Friday morning.

At approximately 11:30 a.m., on April 3, the Middletown Police Department received a report of a deck fire at 6 Tuller Court, according to Spears. "The deck of the [6 Tuller Court] wrapped around a majority of the house, making it difficult to determine the exact point of origin," he said.

Spears said uncertainty in identifying the fire's cause, as well as its point of origin, led local officials to include the county prosecutor and fire marshal's office in the investigation.

The River Plaza Fire Co. was the first engine to arrive on the scene, according to officials. "They reported active flames through out the first and second floors, emerging through a burned hole in the roof," Spears said. According to the fire official, respondents reported a fully involved structure fire, with flying embers igniting the outlying brush.

The vast amount of fire seen by the firefighters mandated that a proper and thorough investigation be conducted, Spears said. Both Middletown and Monmouth County investigators were working last night until dark.

Spears said the deck of the adjacent home, 4 Tuller Court, briefly caught fire, as did the surrounding brush. He also said the lawn of 2 Tuller Court was ignited by stray embers blown by the wind and suffered small, isolated fires. "[The lawn of 2 Tuller] was 700 feet from the fire," Spears said.

Investigators were back at 6 Tuller Court this morning, examining the burned-out ruins for evidence of the fire's point of origin, he said.

Spears estimated that the fire was brought under control after seven hours and the efforts of 100 firefighters.

"It was a complete exterior operation because we wanted to protect the other houses," he added. Fire officials also said there were several structural collapses in the home, and the foundation was completed cracked.

Firemen were called back at 8 p.m. to extinguish parts of the initial blaze that remained smoldering underneath the charred wreckage, according to the public information officer. He said they also put out several small brush fires in the surrounding area.

"The investigation began when fire officials first arrived, and it is continuing as we speak," Spears said, adding that officials needed to be absolutely certain before making all final determinations.

The River Plaza Fire Co was followed by the arrival of the Lincroft Fire Co., Navesink Fire Co., Brevent Park Fire Co., Belford Engine Fire Co., Community Fire Co. and East Keansburg Fire Co.

First Assistant Fire Chief John Isaksen of the Middletown Fire Department was in charge of the successful containment effort, officials said. All of the Middletown First Aid Squads were on scene to offer their assistance. Luckily their services were not needed, as officials reported no injuries.

For the entire story and more pictures, follow this link to www.BayshoreNews.com

Middletown firefighters hose down blaze on Tuller Court

2008-04-03T13:17:00.003-04:00

Firefighters combated an active structure fire at a two-story Middletown home that continued to smolder into Thursday afternoon. The fire, located at 6 Tuller Court, was seemingly contained as of 1 p.m., although firefighters continued to hose the smoldering ruins as the residential area was inundated with smoke.

Fire engines from Lincroft Fire Co., East Keansburg Fire Co., River Plaza Hose Co. No. 1 and the Navesink Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1 were on the scene to combat the blaze, which had engulfed the residence located at the end of the cul-de-sac.

The Fairview First Aid Squad and Leonardo First Aid Squad were also on scene to assist with the effort.

There appeared to be no injuries as attempts to extinguish the fire continued into the afternoon.

Continue to check for updates regarding the official status of the blaze.

NORTH MIDDLETOWN, PORT MONMOUTH, KEANSBURG, EAST KEANSBURG, UNION BEACH AND HAZLET RESIDENTS: BE MINDFUL OF BOTH FLOODS AND INSURANCE SALESMAN

2008-04-01T02:12:00.020-04:00

Federal officials revealed new flood plain map putting larges sections of Keansburg, Port Monmouth and East Keansburg within or adjacent to high-risk flood zones. This is a serious issue for Bayshore residents, so I will be updating my blog and the Web site with information on the exact streets affected within the four municipalities hit hardest.

Proposed flood maps mandate that an additional 65 percent of all Keansburg households obtain flood insurance. The 65 percent does not account for areas that are already contained in a flood zone. The flood plain now encompasses the whole borough of Keansburg. FEMA said the households are no longer protected by a levee completed in 1975 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

According to the preliminary estimates of the FEMA study, Middletown would have an additional 2,500 homes added to the revised flood plain areas. In Keansburg, FEMA Senior Engineer Paul Weberg said current protections against flooding were particularly ineffective. 2,000 additional households were included. Hazlet and Union Beach were said to have 800 and 100 additional households within the designated hazard areas, respectively.

Senior Insurance Specialist for FEMA Rich Einhorm said the revised maps would have major insurance consequences on residents who fall under newly designated flood plain areas. The areas have been determined as special points particularly vulnerable to the flood hazards, he said.

Residents whose properties are included in the newly revised federal flood maps will be required to obtain flood insurance if they have a mortgage or a loan on their residence, according to Einhorn. FEMA documents said homeowners who own their property outright would not be mandated to purchase the insurance, although officials recommended the practice.

Einhorn said obtaining an insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was the best option available to residents affected by the new maps. "The NFIP is not the only game in town, but we are the cheapest game in town," he said.

Bayshore residents can view the preliminary flood maps online by linking the sentence.

Middletown PD use of comp time APP's "Topic of the day"

2008-04-01T02:12:00.017-04:00

The APP's Kevin Penton has dominated once again, with his article about the use of comp time by officers on Super Bowl Sunday being selected for their Topic of the Day. Click on the headline for the story.

Old Interview with GOPFreeholder Hopeful John Curley, plus my weekend with Colts

2008-04-01T02:12:00.012-04:00

Here is a link to the Feb. 21 interview with GOP candidate and former Christian Brother John Curley.

Speaking of Colts alumni, a group of us went out this weekend to Long Branch. I'd just like to name Chris Kenny as the last bastion of CBA basketball talent. Kenny is an assistant coach at the University of Monmouth. During his years as a hawk where he made it rain in two (ok, he only made it rain in once against Duke or some other #1, but he hit the gamewinner in the NEC title...that was epic nonetheless) NCAA tournament appearances. During my two years at CBA, I had the privelage of watching Jason Williams (Duke, Bulls) take on our very own Geoff Billet (Rutgers...) Williams schooled him when he was with St. Joe's Metuchen Now I heard the current CBA team lost to Colts Neck! Shameful. At least hockey is still decent. .

thedeadlinenj.blogspot.com/2008/04/keansburg-council-addresses-fema-flood.html

2008-03-29T02:10:00.002-04:00

Curley for Monmouth County Freeholder

2008-03-27T06:36:00.003-04:00

Red Bank Councilman John P. Curley was selected to fill the vacant spot on the county GOP ticket. Curley now commences his official effort toward a successful run for the Board of Chosen Freeholders. He joins current Freeholder Director Lillian Burry under the Republican standard in the GOP's bid to retain a majority on the five-member board.

The Christian Brothers Academy alumni voiced his Freeholder aspirations in the Feb.21 edition of The Courier. He challenged the "country club adage in Monmouth County," while promising to continue a grassroots approach to assessing the priorities of county residents.

The Red Bank councilman said his foremost allegiance as a public servant lay with his constituents. "(Detractors) can call me whatever they want. I know who I am and what I stand for. I am a candidate that cannot be bought or controlled," Curley said during the interview.

If true to his word, the county could be welcoming a dedicated official with an inclination toward reform. Besides, as member of the Lincroft private high school for two years, I know the type of leaders CBA produces: strong ones. I believe members of the CBA community would agree that, after the expiration of Will Barham's tenure, another Colt on the board would not be a bad thing.

Congratulations, Mr. Curley and best of luck.

Hazlet zoning issue laid to rest

2008-03-26T03:35:00.002-04:00

Alyssa Passeggio posted the results of a Hazlet Committee vote concerning an ordinance that would have allowed the rezoning of a vacant land parcel. The controversy centered on a vacant Poole Avenue lot that developers had hoped to convert into a 26-townhouse residential center. The governing body came to a decision last night on the long-contested and fiercely-debated zoning issue. For the voting results,as well as additional information, closure and/or updates regarding last night's meeting, follow the headline to Passeggio's blog.

New Township Administrator: Mercantante..Silva?

2008-03-25T17:47:00.004-04:00

Kevin Penton of the APP wrote a great story on Middletown's ongoing search for a permanent replacement for former Township Administrator Robert Czech.

According to the APP article, members of the committee told Penton they have a preferred candidate in mind. If the governing body selects an outside professional, similar to Jahn, my guess as to who would be the next administrator is as good as anyones.

However, if the committee decides to pick from within the current administration, my money would be on either Greg Silva or Anthony Mercantante. This is pure speculation, but both Silva and Mercantante have made appearances at most of the recent public meetings. Mercantante has seemingly become the committee's liaison, stepping up to account for both the absence of Czech and the reluctance of Jahn to assert control during public sessions. In my limited experiences with Mercantante, he has come across as a straight shooter.

Only time will tell the ultimate decision of the committee in selecting a permanent Township Administrator.

Click here for a link to Kevin Penton's article at APP.com

University of Delaware Ice Hockey ends successful season among ACHA Top 4

2008-03-25T17:09:00.005-04:00

Here is a recap from the Web site, http://www.delaware.goalline.ca/:

Lindenwood used their steller defense and great Goaltending to upend the Hens, by the score of 8 to 1, in the ACHA National Tournament Semi-Finals.

The #4 University of Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens were upended by the #2 Lindenwood University Lions, by the score of 8 to 1, in the 2008 ACHA Semi-Finals.

The Lindenwood defense, including their Goalkeeper, were the difference in the game. In addition, Lindenwood's Larry Kopecky scored the Hat-Trick, which propelled the Lions to the 2008 ACHA Championship Finals.

Jimmy Depfer faced 42 shots and had 34 saves, in the game. In addtion, Mike Gardner had the only goal in the game, which gave him 5 points (3 Goals & 2 Assists), for the entire tournament. Kari Marttinen and Jackie Lankelis provided the assist. Kari ended his run at the Tournament with 4 points (2 Goals & 2 Assists).

In the other Semi-Final game, the #1 University of Illinois Fighting Illini defeated the #6 Liberty University Flames, by the score of 4 to 2. So, the #1 Illinois Fighting Illini will take on the #2 Lindenwood Lions, in the 2008 ACHA Championship Game, on Wednesday night at 7:30pm EST. This will be the rematch, of the 2008 Central States Collegiate Hockey League (CSCHL), where the Fighting Illini defeated the Lions. Coverage of that game will be available, from LiveSportsVideo.com.

A bite out of crime?

2008-03-25T15:21:00.002-04:00

Two 17-year-old males and a 28-year-old mother of three used a stolen pit bull as a dangerous weapon during the assault and robbery of a 25-year-old Keansburg man, police said.

Keansburg Police Deputy Chief James Pigott said Tamica Q. Moss, of 46 Seeley Avenue, left her children, aged five, seven and nine, in John Donahue Park during the commission of the crime.

A total of five people have been taken into custody in relation to this incident, officials said.

For the entire story, follow the link to The Courier or pick up the March 27 edition.

The Deadline: Middletown Committee: Forget partisan allegiances, fix the budget!

2008-03-24T19:45:00.002-04:00

The Deadline: Middletown Committee: Forget partisan allegiances, fix the budget!

Proposed ordinance: fostering growth or eliminating competition?

2008-03-24T18:56:00.038-04:00

J.J. SULLIVAN III, Staff Writer, The Courier, March 20Posted:03/22/08

The Keansburg governing body discussed the potential adoption of a local ordinance mandating a minimum distance between certain businesses during the March 12 council meeting. Borough Councilman Arthur Boden said he was responding to concerns about the inherent problems when new businesses are located in direct proximity of their competitors.

During the public session, Boden advocated an ordinance that would eliminate what he described as unnecessary competition among similar businesses in the borough. He said the ordinance was meant for a multitude of businesses, including pizzerias, delis and convenience stores. Boden said the location of particular establishments prevented new businesses from achieving prolonged success. He said the practice has an adverse effect on the growth of Keansburg's economy.

The councilman voiced his concerns about businesses opening up in close proximity to another business that offers the same products or services. "It can put a negative strain on the new establishments. I feel it gives businesses the wrong impression and creates a problem," Boden said.

The councilman said when competitive businesses are clustered together, they are forced into a battle for the neighborhood's limited resources. Boden further specified that he meant to address the borough's abundance of delis, Chinese restaurants and pizza parlors.

For the entire story, visit The Courier online.

Council wants background checks for Burg volunteers

2008-03-24T18:56:00.036-04:00

J.J. SULLIVAN III, Staff Writer, The Courier, March 20Posted:03/23/08

During the March 12 Borough Council meeting, the Keansburg governing body discussed drafting an ordinance that would mandate background checks for volunteers involved in youth sports. If adopted, the ordinance would require volunteers from Keansburg's youth athletic leagues to undergo extensive background checks. The council reserved the right to conduct fingerprint testing, according to Municipal Clerk Thomas Cusick.

The municipal clerk said the borough would have limited flexibility to address the costs. Cusick said the price would be "substantial." Officials estimated the costs of testing an individual at $40.However, Mayor Lisa Strydio said she was more concerned with ensuring the credibility of volunteer coaches. "I think it would be $40 well spent on the safety of our children," she said. "I believe it is something that should be mandatory."

Football, soccer, baseball, softball and wrestling were among the local groups that officials said would fall under the proposed ordinance.The ordinance remained in the discussion stages, in part because of concerns over the costs and other issues. Among the unresolved issues was the status of privately operated, profitable athletic organizations.The council hoped to tailor the ordinance to include public youth athletic leagues, as well as private, non-profit organizations.

Municipal Attorney John Bennett voiced concerns that the inclusion of overly expansive definitions could result in significant expenses for the borough. "[The ordinance] is very broad. Right now, it would conceivably cover a one-time volunteer in a booth at a fund-raiser. I do not know if that is the intention of the ordinance," he said.

Under the current wording of the ordinance, Strydio said the Keansburg Police Department would be responsible for the submission of requests for testing, as well as the reception, storage and destruction of results.

According to the mayor, volunteers would be tested once a year. However, Strydio said volunteers tested more than once would only incur a $5 fee for the ensuing checks.Bennett said the exact offenses under which an individual would be disqualified from volunteer services needed further clarification. "Unacceptable offenses must still be discussed," he said.The council must also resolve how to address the issue of crimes pending adjudication, as well as whether applicants subject to pretrial intervention or conditional discharge would be disqualified."These are questions that need to be resolved once we get into the wording of the ordinance itself," the municipal attorney said.

According to the council, the borough would not be informed of the specific details of results. Bennett said officials would only be told whether or not the individual was eligible. "That is all we would find out," he said.It was suggested by Bennett that a third party other than the Keansburg Police Department conduct the background tests, in order to avoid any legal culpability stemming from erroneous results. A public hearing regarding the introduction of the ordinance is slated for 6 p.m. on March 26 at Borough Hall.

Lions fund-raiser to benefit troops abroad

2008-03-24T18:56:00.035-04:00

by J.J. SULLIVAN III, Staff Writer, The Courier, March 20Posted:03/24/08At the start of the every meeting, members of the Middletown Township Lions Club rise from their seats and pledge allegiance to the flag. Next, members, or Lions, bow their heads. The President offers reverent words of support for the American military serving abroad. Only then does official business begin.

Given the commencement rituals practiced before the onset of each bi-monthly gathering, it should not come as a surprise that the philanthropic group chose to champion a charity aimed at supporting members of the N.J. National Guard stationed in foreign theaters of war.

In conjunction with VFW Post 2179, the Middletown Lions Club will sponsor a "Support the Troops Pancake Breakfast" to benefit the families of deployed members of the N.J. National Guard.The pancake breakfast is scheduled for Sunday, April 13, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW Post 2179, Port Monmouth. All proceeds will directly benefit the New Jersey National Guard State Family Readiness Council (NGSFRC), a group that offers financial assistance to the dependents of guardsmen who are away on active duty.

The Lions have initiated another fund-raising campaign dedicated to gathering donations for the troops. According to Lion John Giordano, patrons of local businesses would be able to buy pieces of paper adorned with a yellow ribbon. Making a donation at participating businesses purchases the slips. Participating business owners will adorn their shops with the yellow ribbons in hopes of encouraging additional outpourings of symbolic support, Giordano said.

Although the sales of the ribbons would be ongoing, Lions Co-Chairman and retired Lt. Col. James L. Guerrieri said the pancake breakfast was an important fund-raiser. "This is a chance to offer support to an undeniably worthy cause," the former military man asserted.Guerrieri said wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have transformed the state's part time soldiers into battle-hardened professionals. "The reserves have ceased to be replacements," he said. "Our military simply could not sustain foreign conflict without the immense contribution of the National Guard and the Military Reserves."

Guerrieri said flaws in the military payroll often resulted in citizen soldiers defaulting on their mortgage payments while abroad. He said the NGSFRC addresses those types of issues. "The NGSFRC is looking to raise $1 million this year," he said.Tickets for the pancake breakfast are $10 for adults, $5 for children 10. Children under five are free. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.

The Lion are seeking the donations of food items, supplies and funding for the pancake breakfast. Monetary donations can be made by check and payable to the Middletown Lion's Club.For more information regarding ticket sales or donations, contact Guerrieri at (908) 902-0371, or William Travis, past commander, VFW Post 2179 at (732) 787-0999.

Burg’s second St. Pat’s Day parade to build on last year’s success

2008-03-24T18:56:00.032-04:00

by J.J. SULLIVAN III, Staff Writer, The Courier, March 20Posted:03/24/08

Keansburg has been undergoing preparations to host the borough's 2nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. Festivities are scheduled for March 29, at 1 p.m., and officials are hoping that the parade experiences the fabled "luck of the Irish."

The processional is scheduled to commence at 1 p.m. on Beachway Avenue. The parade route would follow the street, going up Main Street to Church Street. From Church Street, participants would march along Carr Avenue, until proceeding back down Beachway Avenue. Officials said the parade would end at a grandstand erected near the Tiki Stadium.

Councilman George Hoff has been part of the borough's recent revitalization efforts. Hoff was part of the committee, comprised of local residents and businessmen, who decided to stage last year's parade. Before last year, there had not been a St. Patrick's Day parade in Keansburg for 25 years.

Hoff said he was not sure why such a large time span elapsed between the parades. The councilman said he decided it was time for the borough to reestablish a long-forgotten tradition. "[In 2006,] I went to the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Keyport. That made me realize that if Keyport could host a successful event, so could Keansburg," Hoff said.

Last year, Hoff said he talked to a few residents who were involved in the borough's ongoing revitalization efforts. After talking to Mary Foley, Tommy Keelen and a few other involved citizens, Hoff said they established a parade committee. The committee would successfully plan the new Keansburg tradition, completing the task with exclusively private funds. "Like last year, the costs involved in staging the parade are covered by private funds. No borough money is going toward this event," Hoff said. The councilman said all revenues were generated through either private donations or the sale of ad journal advertisements.

Hoff said the parade committee remained largely unchanged from last year. The committee holds meetings every Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Tiki Stadium. Hoff said they would be holding two more meetings, on March 20 and March 27, and encouraged anyone interested in participating in the festivities to attend. "Last year's parade was a huge success, and we expect this year's event to be even better," he said.

The grand marshal of the parade is Father Daniel Cahill, according to Hoff. "Father Cahill is being honored for his Irish heritage, as well as his service and dedication to the community of Keansburg," he said. The parade will feature two deputy grand marshals. Charles Hockey and John "Jackie" Keelen, two local businessmen, are both being honored for both their service to the borough and Irish ancestry.

Forty-five groups are scheduled to march in the parade, including four bag piping outfits, a string band and a live band. Hoff said the borough would welcome more groups wishing to show off their Irish pride. "We would love to see everyone lining the streets and painted green," Hoff said. "Come out for the celebration and see Keansburg for yourself."Any groups interested in the event should contact Councilman George Hoff at (908) 902-0963.