Use of sedan, not elaborate SUV, is a good move

The Middletown Committee has taken a step in the right direction with the Impala for the new administrator, when they decide who that is.

Former Administrator Bob Czech was issued a Chevy Tahoe SUV, which is the same kind of vehicle used by the governor of the state of New Jersey to get around. Obviously, the needs of the governor of the state are not the same as a township administrator. Such a practice spoke directly to waste.

It was an observed practice that Mr. Czech used this vehicle all the time, and 'all the time' is not the same as 'only on township time.'

The point is this: Money is tight and taxpayers are fed up with affording extravagant luxuries to what should be only sufficiently-equipped elected appointed officials on all levels of government in this state. When times are tough, it is not the time for luxuries being thrown to bureaucrats.

This practice, if actually implemented and not somehow back-handedly gotten around, should save taxpayers some money. If enough little things are attended to, it adds up to a lot of money being saved. This is not the whole thing, but it is something and something is always better than nothing.

Congrats for saving a few bucks. It's what government is supposed to do. Perhaps first responders who need to carry things could better use a large SUV vehicle, as they try and save lives. There is no limit as to what a life costs, but there are plenty of limits where it amounts to what bureaucrats are worth.

MT Official Response

Township Response:

Middletown Response (as determined by the Middletown mayor individually):

1. A Chevy Impala is available for use by the administrator and assistant administrator for travel to official meetings and other township activities.

2. There is no written media policy. No plans to draft one are being discussed.

Cindy Herrschaft
Middletown PIO

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Middletown Matters when it comes to money too

This morning, I stopped by Town Hall, in Middletown, again. The purpose of the visit was to again hear why Courier staff writers are not permitted the same access to the governing body as are other newspapers or the public. In fact, this newspaper has not reported on any matter that did not bear public review. The newspaper attends to matters of tax money and how it is spent.

In the midst of Recession, amid a time of skyrocketing taxation, it is not out of line to cover and discuss the Municipal Operating Budget candidly. Indeed, items of great excess have been revealed through previous examination of the township’s budget in the past.

Lawmakers and administrations that have something to hide are not transparent: It is as simple as that. That The Courier does not practice institutional flattery of the municipal governing body is neither out of line nor expresses discourtesy. Newspapers should not ignore the issue of tax money for any nicety’s sake. What is discourteous is making residents of any tax bracket pay more than they should for municipal government. Residents should possess wealth, and businesses should possess wealth. Since all of government’s money is derived through taxation, it would be wrong for government to be wealthy, as wealth connotes that excess taxation has taken place. Personalities have nothing to do with that, though the ego of politicians (as all elected officials are) dictates that this is somehow a ‘personal’ thing.

A question I posed to Public Information Officer Cindy Herrschaft also involved the future administrator — whomever that may be. The question was simple enough: ‘What vehicle is the new administrator going to be assigned?’

Ms. Herrschaft said that Mayor Scharfenberger would be the authority as to if either of the questions I posed would be answered.

Mr. Scharfenberger is not an elected mayor. He is the president of the board, elected by a simple majority not of town voters but of committee people (and he had to vote for himself to win the job).

Why is a committee person with what amounts to an honorary title awarded the prerogatives of a strong-mayor form of government under Robert’s Rules. Specifically, this mayor is given an aide, which is superfluous under this organization, and executive oversight of staff, which is not a prerogative I have ever seen a mayor under a "township" form of government possess (meaning not a strong mayor, or even a weak mayor form). This is not a doctrinal road and, in my opinion, panders unnecessarily to this mayor, who is not elected by municipal voters. He was elected by a simple majority of five people, apparently to make financial decisions and rate a personal staff that township voters and taxpayers subsidize.

If the Republican Party in town wishes a strong-mayor form of government, and it certainly operates as such, I do not see why this issue cannot go to voters. What is more the shame is that actual oversight of this government does not take place by regulatory state or other agencies, ensuring the standard statutory propriety within the operation of the municipal government. There are exceptions being made in this municipality that represent what I believe is a dangerous precedent for governments organized in this state. I believe the first order of business relates to the transparency of government, but that is only where this situation begins, in my opinion.

Meanwhile, I believe it is wholly improper for any one committee person, who represents only one vote among five, to have broad executive powers when they were patently not elected to do so under this form of government.

Study: Whites will be minority by 2050

According to a recent study, Whites will be a minority group in the United States by 2050. My opinion is that while diversity has been an idea whose time has come in many places, still other areas are going to be challenged more dramatically by a demographic turn-around on that scale.

Where it involves political races, I think it is plain that the party with the biggest tent is much more likely to be the early winner of this change of the tide. As seen in the ongoing presidential campaign of Sen. Obama, "minority" voting has become much more mainstream as previously marginalized groups are taking a position far more in the center of the political landscape than has previously occurred.

In Monmouth County, an area notoriously un-diverse in many corners, I think this change is going to translate into a modification of views in many communities. Personally, I think the United States was built upon the idea that change is not a bad thing; change represents new opportunities.

Click on the headline to go to YahooNews!

Clintons blast MSNBC over commentator slur

An NBC News correspondent, who probably is looking at some lean vocational times ahead, made a degrading remark about Chelsea Clinton. The Clintons didn't take it well, neither did NBC, or anyone with any notion of civility for that matter.

That's what news needs now -- more card readers with wisecracks. Of course, the alternative would be sticking to the news.

For more information, click on the headline and go to a NY Daily News story about it.

Obama, Clinton in dead heat

So senators Obama and Clinton are in a virtual dead heat in this year's Democratic Primary for the nomination.

I think it is safe to say that there is a Republican front runner, Sen. John McCain. The question is going to be about who is going to have that title on the other side of the aisle.

The New York Post has a great story about it. Click on the headline to go there.

Mrs. Clemens named in HGH scandal

Is it right for the wife of New York Yankees pitcher Roger Clemens to be brought into this HGH scandal going on? Nope. Not at all. Not a bit.

I heard about Roger Clemens' YouTube about how he has never taken steroids. I don't know. It's not even important what I think about it. Major League Baseball has been something I have not given a darn about since 1994. The game is different now, does lack real meaning and is filled with 'sports entertainers,' as opposed to ball players.

With that said, Debbie Clemens doesn't deserve to be put under a heat lamp because her husband is in the midst of a steroid scandal. I think this is a bad story, and something that is wrong. It's going to sell papers, but it shouldn't.

Click on the headline for the NY Post story today.

N.J. SENATORS: BUSH BUDGET WEAKENS NEW JERSEY HEALTH CARE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 8, 2007

CONTACT: Lautenberg Press Office 202.224.3224 or Menendez Press Office 202.224.4744

New Jersey Lawmakers Release Analysis of
Bush Budget Impact on NJ Health Care System

WASHINGTON , D.C. – U.S. Sens. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) today released their assessment of the Bush health care budget and its impact on New Jersey residents. The budget makes clear that providing access to comprehensive, affordable health care programs is not a top priority for this administration. Instead of putting resources into an already-strained health care system, the president is attempting to balance the budget on the backs of our nation’ seniors and low-income families. It also allocates far less than what is needed to provide adequate health care to low-income children and undermines the future of State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), known as FamilyCare here in New Jersey .

“The president has decided to tighten his fist when it comes to health care solutions for our seniors, our children and our low-income families in New Jersey ,” said Menendez. “This is exactly the opposite of what we should be doing, I believe it is our job to invest significantly in solutions that will strengthen our health care system, and I will continue to make it a priority to help more New Jerseyans afford the health care they deserve.”

"President Bush's cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and other vital health care services are the wrong prescription for New Jersey . It hurts families and children who are already struggling to see a doctor and pay for the prescriptions and medical care they need. As a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committees, I will fight to make this budget a better deal for New Jersey -- so our residents can get quality health care at an affordable price," Senator Frank R. Lautenberg said.

President Bush, in his budget, proposes cutting Medicare and Medicaid by $200 billion over five years. This is particularly troubling because more than 40% of New Jersey hospitals are facing financial difficulty. Any additional cuts could pose problems for the more than 1.2 million New Jersey Medicare patients that depend on these hospitals for their life-saving care.

The president’s budget, among other things: reduces our ability to fund life-saving medical breakthroughs and eliminates funding for the Patient Navigator program, which coordinates care for people with cancer and other serious illnesses.

Additionally, the president wants to balance the budget on the backs of our children. Not only does he provide less funding than Congress proposed for the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, he has also vetoed a proposal from Congress that would have provided 125,000 children in New Jersey to continue to receive health care coverage and allow an additional 100,000 children to gain health care coverage.

Sens. Menendez and Lautenberg, both members of the Senate Budget Committee, pledged to work within the Congressional budget process to ensure New Jerseyans are not shortchanged by President Bush.

President’s FY2009 Health Care Budget:

Weakening health care access, quality and widening disparities

· Jeopardizing the Health Care of Our Seniors and Low-Income Families: The president’s budget proposes cutting Medicare and Medicaid by $200 billion over five years, with 82% of that, or $178 billion, coming from Medicare. Specifically, the president proposes to cut $12.4 billion from Medicare next year. These savings would largely come from freezes in payments to doctors, hospitals and other health care providers. New Jersey hospitals stand to lose more than $246 million in 2009 and $2.6 billion over five years under these steep spending cuts.

· Leaving New Jersey ’s Low-Income Children’s Health Coverage Out in the Cold: The President’s budget proposal includes an additional $19.7 billion for SCHIP, short of the approximately $21.5 billion in addition that is needed to maintain coverage for children already enrolled. At this level of funding, not only would it be difficult to maintain current enrollment but it would be impossible for additional uninsured children to be added to the program. This proposal is in stark contrast to the reauthorization plan passed by Congress. Under Congress’ reauthorization plan, 125,000 New Jersey children would have continued to receive vital health care coverage and 100,000 additional New Jersey children would have gained health care coverage. It is clear that the president does not prioritize children's healthcare as his proposal leaves us far short of Congress’ plan to provide coverage to over 10 million children nationwide.

· Cutting Effective Health Programs: Federal funding for Medicaid family planning services would be cut by $570 million this year and $3.3 billion over five years under the Bush budget. It proposes to reduce the federal match for family planning services under Medicaid. This means that New Jersey could lose more than $18 million in Federal funding. This would result in a 400% increase in costs for New Jersey for these services.

· Reducing Our Ability to Fund Life-Saving Medical Breakthroughs: The Bush budget freezes funding for the National Institutes of Health at $29.3 billion, which would make next year the sixth year in a row that our nation’s investment in life-saving research failed to keep up with biomedical inflation. The projected success rate for research grant applications would fall to the lowest level, 18%, since 1970.

· Leaving Our Nation’s Food and Drug Supply at Risk: The Bush budget proposes to increase funding for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by $42 million which is barely enough to keep up with inflation. In addition, an FDA scientific task force found that the budget request represented less than 20% of the funding needed just to keep up with their current operations. This insufficient funding is clear evidence of the president’s lack of commitment to keeping America ’s food and drug supply safe. Without proper protections and oversees inspections, New Jersey residents are at-risk of possibly tainted and harmful drug imports. Americans should to feel confident and safe when they take their medication or buy their groceries but the only way we can ensure this is to properly fund the FDA. Furthermore, New Jersey ’s pharmaceutical companies and their 65,000 employees depend on timely approval of drugs and devices by the FDA to keep the New Jersey economy moving. The president’s budget paces the health of New Jersey ’s citizens and our economy at risk.

· Slashing Funding for Preventions Efforts: The President’s 2009 budget surrenders the fight against chronic disease and obesity in America . Chronic disease programs at the CDC are cut by $29 million and the budget eliminates the Prevention Health Services Block grant, which helps New Jersey prevent and reduce the incidence of various health problems, such as childhood obesity, cancer, and lead poisoning. In New Jersey , 18 percent of sixth graders are overweight and another 20 percent are obese.

· Cutting Funding for Tobacco Control and Prevention: The President’s budget cuts funding for successful tobacco control and prevention programs despite a recent report that found that smoking rates are no longer declining. More than 4,000 people died of lung cancer in New Jersey last year.

· Harming Proven Reproductive-Health Programs: The president’s budget again requests a $28 million increase for Community-Based Abstinence Education, for a total of $137 million. Abstinence-only programs have been found to be ineffective and frequently use misleading and medically inaccurate information. The president also recommends no increase for the Title X family-planning program, which provides access to health care for low-income women. In New Jersey , more than 50 clinics rely on this funding.

· Providing Insufficient Support for Community Health Centers: Community health centers receive a meager 1% increase in this budget, which is intended for new centers in high-risk areas. However, the budget includes nothing for base adjustments to cover inflationary costs for existing health centers. Without these increases, the 19 community health centers in New Jersey may have to turn uninsured patients away.

· Lacking Support for HIV/AIDS Care and Prevention: The budget requests a less than 1% increase for HIV/AIDS care over this year and provides no increase for HIV/AIDS prevention. The lack of a substantial funding increase puts the health and well-being of the more than 48,000 HIV/AIDS patients in New Jersey at risk.

· Eliminating Key Screening and Outreach Program: The president’s budget eliminates $3 million in funding for the Patient Navigator program, which coordinates care for people with cancer and other serious illnesses. The administration contends that this initiative would be ineffective or duplicate other government initiatives, but President Bush himself signed this bill into law. This is particularly shocking in light of the fact that models for this program have proven effective and show that expanding access nationwide would save lives and health care costs.

· Slashing Health Professions Training: Our public health workforce shortage is worsening, and this budget will only exacerbate that shortage. Instead of helping alleviate the nursing shortage, this budget proposes a 29% in funding to train nurses and completely eliminates health professions training for primary care and geriatric providers and programs aimed at diversifying the workforce. It is estimated that by 2020, New Jersey will have 50% of their nursing positions vacant because of the shortage.

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Doing a story about young people and voting

Courier Intern Melissa Gaffney is working on an upcoming story about young people voting, and why they should be involved. The story will feature input from Monmouth County's public information officer, Bill Heine, and Freeholder Director Lillian Burry.

This election, perhaps more than any other in recent history, is setting a new course for our state and nation. Be sure to read next week's Courier for more on Decision 2008: The Youth.

To contribute to the story, call Melissa at 732-957-0070.

Bayshore Senior Center needs meals-on-wheels drivers

The Bayshore Senior Center, 100 Main Street, in Keansburg, is looking for meals-on-wheels drivers to help out home bound seniors by delivering meals. There are more than 60 seniors that need this service.

The center is currently looking for volunteers that can help out with this. If anyone has any time and they are looking for a worthwhile activity, there is none better. For more information, call Sister Elizabeth Garvey, RSM, at (732) 495-2454.

CAPTION: Sister Elizabeth Garvey has been working with Bayshore seniors since she joined the program as its executive director in 1981.

Hillary, McCain are top vote getters

Hillary takes Super Tuesday in Monmouth! McCain is top GOP vote getter! Click on the headline and go to the APP story.

About Rush Holt and the Parkway sale

Rep. Rush Holt is one of the brightest people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. He is articulate, dedicated and very insightful. He's not my congressman, though I certainly wish he was. But, at the Marlboro meeting where Gov. Corzine tried to push his plan to sell the toll roads the other day, Rep. Holt took the governor's side very publicly.

Everyone should have the right to defend their point of view, because that is what America is about. But, I think that Rep. Holt is making the kind of name for himself during this proposal process that, in the long term, may harm him unnecessarily on a political level.

I think what Gov. Corzine is trying to do, on a theoretical level, is very noble. I strongly disagree with his plan, though do believe in his commitment to the state and its residents. Yet, his plan is absolutely fraught with peril for taxpayers. There are way too many 'ifs' in this plan, which hardly makes any promises carved in stone after the 800 percent hike in tolls it advocates.

In my opinion, New Jerseyans have made enough sacrifices for too long. It's time to cut government, cut governmental spending permanently, cut deeper than just layoffs and the like, and really make state government as small as possible. This experience should be replicated on every level, and the excess that New Jersey governments are famous for cut to shreds. Then it might be time to talk about some added measure to curb state debt. Neither party in this state is good at saving money, truth be told, and neither can be trusted to be the cavalry coming over the hill.

The first people to sacrifice should be our elected officials -- their pay, their benefits -- for each and every elected person in this state. And then, when sacrifice is more than a punchline for our elected people -- and only then -- let's talk about hikes, though toll road hikes are probably just not the way to go. These hikes would kill business, no matter how politely the plan is put.

It is good that Gov. Corzine is personally trying to sell this plan. It speaks well to his conviction about the plan and his commitment to transparent government. But, stump this project as loud as he may want to do, I just don't think this dog is going to hunt.

I think Rep. Holt is making a mistake picking this fight to wage, and I certainly hope this doesn't come back to haunt him in elections to come. Everyone makes a mistake. I really believe this is Rush's.

GIANT PARTY FOR GIANTS

There's a Giant victory party going on in New York right now for the World Champion Giants. The Giants, under the steady hand of quartback Eli Manning gained a spectacular victory in a total team effort. As a Pats fan, that's the most praise for the Giants that anyone is going to get from me -- hopefully ever. When your team lost one they were supposed to win, the only thing left to do is to be gracious, I guess.

Pats end 'wasn't as shocking as it seemed'

The Boston Herald said it like it was about the Pats. They had a great season. It was almost perfect...right up until it wasn't. Click on the headline to see what Boston is saying about the end of the Pats' season.

Another Super Bowl in the books

As a lifelong Patriots fan, last night was disappointing. The Giants outright beat the Pats in a four-quarter defensive battle. Last year, with the Colts beating the Bears, it was tough given the fact that the Pats suffered a fourth-quarter collapse in Indy preventing them from advancing to the Super Bowl.

This year, despite all of the winning during the regular season, the most important game was lost. A shame? Not for Giants fans.

The Pats could have beat the Giants. Some will argue that they should have beat the Giants. But, at the end of the day, the Pats didn't beat the Giants. Congratulations to the Giants and their fans.

Limbaugh takes aim at McCain

I'm not a supporter of any of the Republicans out there for president. Nevertheless, just because someone is running for president doesn't mean they should be publicly scandalized by someone likeRush Limbaugh (or Ann Coulter or fill in the blank).

I think Sen. McCain has done a lot for the country. I do not generally agree with many of his positions on the issues. But I think this kind of public mockery of someone like Sen. McCain shows clearly how the stranger parts of the GOP does business.

Rush Limbaugh is, in my opinion, the standard-bearer for most of what is wrong with politics these days. It would be good to get a break from that sort of thing for a few years. Click on the headline and go to a story about this.

Fans show Giant pride

When the Giants take the field tomorrow they'll have a couple fans rooting for them back home. Click on the headline and go to a good NJ.com story.

Bayshore Young Dems making their mark

There is a new blog out there, organized by Bayshore Young Dems Chairman Matthew Morehead, Middletown, which is really worth reading. Click on the headline and go there. Good to see young people involved.

John Bennett receives "Urban Angel Award" from NYTS

Former Gov. and Sen. President John O. Bennett III. will receive this year's Urban Angel Award from the NY Theological Seminary, in Manhattan. Next week, I will be doing a story about the award and its local recipient. Mr. Bennett is a Red Bank resident, who has been a prominent leader in the area for many years.

Kidd wants to exit Jersey; rest of the team can follow

Nets standout Jason Kidd wants to get out of Jersey. Well, so do the Nets, in general. The team announced some time ago it plans on taking up residence in Brooklyn as soon as they can do it.

In the meantime, Jersey is just the place they want to make money, I guess. I was recently in Brooklyn, and experienced the broken roads and crowded conditions there.

As a former Nets fan, who spent money on the franchise by going to games and supporting their activity, I hope Mr. Kidd does go, along with everyone else on the team. The Nets are like every other turncoat sports franchise in professional athletics. They want whatever they want whenever they want it.

Jersey is a stepping stone for everyone in that building. All things told, if that is how it is, then I think the whole crew should get to stepping so a Jersey basketball franchise can get here all the quicker. Click on the headline and go to NJ.com.

Corzine tries to sell Parkway plan

The APP has a story about Gov. Corzine trying to sell the Parkway plan, which would raise tolls to a ridiculous level, thereby harming commerce and average commuting, in my opinion. I do not believe New Jerseyans should have to be put through anymore harm by government, and especially not on this level.

The government in this state does not know how to spend money. So even if it were bailed out, it would proceed to put itself in an insurmountable hole immediately, in all likelihood squandering whatever value a sacrifice on the part of residents would have.

Click on the headline and go to the story.

Message from Gov. Corzine

I received a message from the Governor's Office in my e-mail. I think it was great that his people are letting area residents know there is a meeting in Marlboro. I don't agree with this plan about the toll roads. But at least this governnor isn't hiding the issue. Below is the email.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm coming to Marlboro on Monday to talk directly to the people about my plan to fix our state's budget crisis. Here are the details:

Monday, February 4, 2008 7-9pm
Marlboro High School
95 North Main St.
Marlboro, NJ 07746

My plan imposes three key spending rules on our state budget. We'll immediately freeze state spending at current levels. We'll require any new spending to be tied to new revenue. And we will return the state's credit card to the people, requiring any state borrowing to be approved by the voters.

Additionally my plan involves toll hikes. The cost of an average trip on the Turnpike would be $2.05 in five years. In 10 years, it will be $5.80. That's up from $1.21 today.

Believe me, I've run all the numbers. There is no better alternative to achieve the twin goals of paying down our state's debt and funding the Transportation Trust Fund for the next 75 years.

I hope to see you at Monday's town hall meeting.

The Fed lowers interest rates

The Fed is lowering interest rates. Let's hope that does something to help re-energize the economy. Too little, too late? No idea. Click on the headline and go to the AP.

Hillary Cllinton's "Soprano" Parody

The Clintons do a parody of the final episode of The Sporanos.

Giants try to hedge Super Bowl win with fashion statement

But fashion doesn't win football games. Click on the headline and go to NJ.com.

Letter from Sen. Jen Beck announcing meeting

Sen. Jen Beck is the elected representative to the Senate from my area. She sent an e-mail about an upcoming meeting the governor is holding in Marlboro. I never used to get these kinds of notices from Sen. Karcher. I find this informative and refreshing -- my elected representative communicating with all her constituents. There can't be enough of this in government.

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Dear Constituent,

Governor Corzine will be holding a town hall meeting on February 4^th from 7-9pm Marlboro High School to discuss his plan to borrow $40 billion and pay for it with an exorbitant road tax. We strongly urge you to attend this meeting and let the Governor know how you feel about this public policy which will dramatically affect so many of us in this district. This plan will increase the cost of living for everyone in the state, but the largest burden will unfairly fall on the hardworking people of Monmouth and Mercer Counties .

During our recently completed election campaign we opposed this idea and as your elected state legislators we continue to oppose it. At a time when people are leaving New Jersey in droves because it is unaffordable, the last thing we need to do is make it even more unaffordable with this massive road tax.

(For those of you in Mercer County , a date for that town hall meeting has not been announced. When it is, we will let you know.)

If you have any questions, you can email us at SenBeck@njleg.org.

Sincerely,

Senator Jennifer Beck

Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande

Assemblyman Declan O’Scanlon

Great YouTube of Sandy Hook

Someone shot a video of Sandy Hook and put it to music. What it basically shows, in my opinion, is how much this area's most major tourist draw is falling to pieces at Ft. Hancock. It seems like everything is a "Hazardous Area," and has not been maintained for several decades. Personally, I think a lot more can be done than allow the salt air and the storms to claim these historic structures. The video is long, about 8 minutes, and the music might not be to everyone's taste. But, the imagery seems basically very complete.

MANNING BROS WILL BE 2-SPORT ATHLETES?!

Bennett named as Urban Angel Award recipient

According to unofficial sources from the NY Theological Seminary, in Manhattan, NY, former NJ Gov. and Sen. President John Bennett has been named as a recipient of the seminary's 2008 Urban Angel Award. The award is given annually to standouts from the Greater Metropolitan Area.

The prestigious seminary award is given annually to leaders in business, religion, government, communications or medicine. The seminary's Urban Angel Award event will take place in April 15, in Manhattan. A formal announcement from the seminary will be forthcoming next week.

Past honorees have included:Harry Belafonte, the Academy, Grammy, and Emmy Award-winning actor, singer, and activist; The Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., Pastor Emeritus of The Riverside Church and widely considered one of the greatest praechers in the English language; Mr. Michael D. Lappin, chairman of the Community Preservation Corporation, which has built more units of affordable housing in New York and northern New Jersey than any other organization; The Very Rev. James Parks Morton, former Dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York City, and founder of The Interfaith Center; Evangelist Mary Ida Vandross, diabetes awareness spokesperson and mother of the late Grammy Award winning recording artist Luther Vandross; The Rev. Dr. Wyatt T. Walker, Pastor Emeritus of Canaan Baptist Church of Christ and noted Civil Rights leader; The Rev. Dr. George W. (Bill) Webber, president emeritus of New York Theological Seminary; Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, president of the Skinner Leadership Institute; and The Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, pastor of St. Paul's Community Baptist Church in Brooklyn and Civil Rights leader; to name some of those we have honored since 2004.

Dr. Lowell Livezey (1943-2007)

A day of celebration was held at The Riverside Church in New York City today, to celebrate the life of Dr. Lowell Welden Livezey (1943-2007). There was a memorial service held at 10 a.m. to honor this great gentleman.

Dr. Livezey was born in Erie, Pa. He received his B.A. from Swarthmore College, in 1966. He received his doctor of ministry degree in 1970 from the University of Chicago, and married his Divinity School friend, Lois Von Gehr. He served as executive director of the World Without War Council (first in Chicago and then in New York).

During the Vietnam War, the World Without War Council was a center of both anti-war activism and intellectual argument about the requisites of peace making. In 1981, Dr. Livezey left the council and settled into Princeton University to write Nongovernmental Organizations and the Ideas of Human Rights (1988).

He took up academic administration and teaching, first at the Woodrow Wilson School, Princeton University, and later Chicago State University. Between 2002-2004, Dr. Livezey served as director of the Metropolitan Congregational Studies Project at Harvard University Divinity School.

This is a small sampling of the life of a very great person. Dr. Livezey is survived by his wife, Lois Gehr Livezey; his sister, Carla Thelander; his brother, Noble Livezey; many nieces and nephews, among others.

SUPER BOWL PREDICTION: PATS V. GIANTS

There's a lot of speculation and armchair quarterbacking about the Super Bowl this year, and I thought I'd throw my 2 cents in.

The NY Football Giants are playing at a higher level than they have all year, perhaps even higher than when they almost defeated the Pats a few weeks ago.

The Giants' quarterback, Eli Manning, is awake and finally doing something with his head rather than using it as a hat rack. He's dangerous, accurate and elusive. Plaxico Burress is on a roll, as is fellow wide receiver Amani Toomer. Eli's new tight end, Kevin Boss, is performing instead of giving grief every tenth minute. Brandon Jacobs is platooning effectively with the diminutive but powerful Ahmad Bradshaw.

The Giants' D is physical, fast and experienced. They can bring pressure on Pats QB Tom Brady, and they have the number for the Pats front line. Michael Strahan hasn't looked this good in a long time.

But the Pats find a way to win. Brady's offensive weapons are now legend. It's Moss, Stallworth, Welker, Faulk, Watson, Maroney and Gaffney, and it's all working. There is not a team in the NFL the Pats cannot score against.

The Post reported Tom Brady is injured: Probably not enough to change the outcome if he is.

The Pats' D: Fans will call them experienced; detractors will call them senior citizens. I think the Pats' secondary is as good as any in football, with corner Assante Samuels being a tried-and-true playmaker, among others.

Junior Seau, Ted Bruschi, Ty Warren, Vince Wilfork, Richard Seymour and -- the dean of mean -- Mike Vrabel -- are a lot to deal with for any team in the NFL.

What's the difference going to be? Super Bowl experience, team chemistry, and most of all I think the New England defense is going to hold. But the 14 point spread is too much.

I think New England takes it home, 31-21, with a game closer than the score will represent. I think the sometimes sloppy play the Giants offer is going to come back to haunt them and, when it comes to kicking units, the Pats' are better. Coaching will come into it, and Bill Belichick is just a better coach than Tom Coughlin, but then Bill is probably better than anyone (Chuck Noll, Tom Landry, and Vince Lombardi included).

SUPER TUESDAY: PROBABLY WON'T PRODUCE A WINNER

In what has become the most open primary in recent history, the AP is saying that Super Tuesday will prbably not anoint a candidate for November in either party.

Click on the headline to go check out the story.

Middletown Reorganization is on YouTube!

The Middletown Township Reorganization was an important event. Click above to hear the presentation by YouTube.

Third 'Tynes' The Charm; G-Men head to Glendale

The New York Football Giants are heading to Glendale, Arizona to face the vaunted New England Patriots in the Super Bowl this year. Big Blue earned its airfare on the unsteady foot of kicker Lawrence Tynes, who missed two previous field goal attempts before nailing down the game-winning 47-yard kick against the Green Bay Packers, in Green Bay.

Congrats to all those Giant fans out there. Click on the headline to go to the AP story.

Sandy Hook: A scenic hazardous area?

I was on Sandy Hook Saturday, and the view of the bay and the ocean was incredible, as always. The natural setting is great there and, at the Ft. Hancock Historic District, the buildings are still falling apart.

Along Officers' Row, and even throughout the entire fort, there are these historic and once-stately buildings (homes, administration offices, etc.) that were once obviously great places to live and work. Now these structures are almost all marked off as "Hazardous Areas." Stairs are falling in, windows are broken, railings are falling off, floors are broken through...you name it. The place is a wreck. This is not a great destination, given the fact that the place is one big hazardous area -- and why? Building maintenance.

I always see people over at Sandy Hook checking out the buildings, after all they are both historic and have a certain architectural style that is interesting. But they are also rundown shambles. When summer rolls around, this should be the last place for kids to be left unattended given the state of most of the structures in the area.

It's a shame. So much could be done with Ft. Hancock. All across the country, areas find ways to reverently treat their local history, while stimulating the local economy through tourism: Not in Monmouth County, though. In Monmouth, we'll let a place fall to pieces and slap a sign on it calling it a "historic district." Way to go!

Area man makes CNN in national campaign controversy

Former Hazlet Township Committeeman Scott Broschart is a campaign manager employed by a Texas congressional candidate. According to CNN, among others, he was caught up in a controversy recently that took the national spotlight when the congressional candidate was virtually slimmed down on a campaign piece. Click on the headline to go to the CNN piece with Mr. Broschart quoted.

County Consumer Bowl to be held Thursday, January 22

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 18, 2008

* PRESS ADVISORY *

High School students to compete at County Library Headquarters

MANALAPAN – The Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs will be hosting its annual Consumer Bowl at the County Library Headquarters on Jan. 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Students from Freehold Township, Marlboro and Manalapan High Schools will participate and answer questions in a multiple choice and open-ended format. The winners of the local Consumer Bowl will go on to compete in the regional and state competitions to be held in the spring.

“These students will be testing their knowledge of consumer protection,” said Pat Watson, Director of the Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs. “In preparing for the competition these young adults gain valuable knowledge in topics that affect their daily lives – they learn to recognize and remedy bad business practices related to fraud, deceit and misrepresentation in the sale of goods and services.

The New Jersey High School Consumer Bowl was established in 1997 to educate young adults on a variety of consumer issues.

The public is invited to watch the competition. The Press is invited to attend.

When: 9:00 a.m. Thursday, January 24

Where: Monmouth County Library Headquarters
125 Symmes Drive
Manalapan


# # #

Menendez applauds release of over $25M in emergency funds

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2008

CONTACTS:
Afshin Mohamadi 202-224-4744

WITH OIL PRICES AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH, SEN. MENENDEZ APPLAUDS RELEASE
OF OVER $25 MILLION IN EMERGENCY CONTINGENCY FUNDS TO HELP NEW JERSEY
LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS KEEP WARM THIS WINTER

Senator Menendez has been an advocate for LIHEAP and has
asked the administration to add $1 billion for emergency funding

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), a strong advocate for increasing funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that helps families who are struggling with daunting energy costs this winter, today said he is pleased with the administration’s announcement today it will be releasing around $450 million in LIHEAP emergency contingency funds, more than $25 million which will go to New Jersey.

“The New Year began with the price of oil hitting $100 dollar a barrel, which translates into out of control heating costs for all Americans, especially for low-income families. In the richest country on earth people shouldn’t have to wonder whether they can keep their homes warm through the harsh winter, and I am pleased the administration has taken this action,” said Menendez.

This past December, Sen. Menendez joined Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) in asking the president for an additional $1 billion in funding (http://menendez.senate.gov/pdf/120307LIHEAPletter.pdf); he is also a co-sponsor of legislation Sen. Bernard Sanders (I-VT) introduced – the Keep Americans Warm Act of 2007 would also increase funding to LIHEAP by $1 billion.

Pick your all-time favorite Yankees

The N.Y. Daily News has a great new New York Yankees feature Online. Click on the headline and go there.

Aikman: Giants can beat the Pack

According to Cowboy Hall-of-Famer Troy Aikman, New York has a chance against Green Bay.

Click on the headline and go to the NY Post column about it today.

Alyssa Passeggio has good story on Matawan election

Courier Senior Staff Writer Alyssa Passeggio has the best story so far about the Matawan election at bayshoreNewsBlog.Blogspot.com. Click on the headline to go there.

N.J. colleges consider ways to cut tuition hikes

I can't wait to report on people doing the right thing by the consumer. According to an NJ.com story, state colleges are considering how to lessen the impact of tuition hikes on students. Click on the headline and go there.

Caption: Not a picture of a N.J. college.

Romney wins in Michigan; crowded GOP field moves on

The GOP is all over the lot nationally with where it's going for a presidential candidate. The party doesn't have a clear front runner anymore, if it ever did. The race is broken up between Giuliani, McCain, Romney and Huckabee. It's anyone's guess about where it's going.

Usually, there's a front runner by now. I guess Republicans, nationally, are still considering what direction they want to go in during Decision '08. Click on the headline to go to the AP story.

Calling all artisans!

Atlantic Highlands, NJ- CALLING ALL ARTISANS, Atlantic Artisans, LLC is hosting a night of “Live Art”. We are looking for submissions from any artisan that wants to exhibit their art in a creative, informative, moving way in a window while spectators marvel at your artistic ability. We are accepting all submissions in the form of email or snail mail. Creativity is the key and more details will follow when you submit your idea. This is a way to educate the public of the creativity that all artists exhibit. For more information please email Atlantic Artisans, LLC at info@atlanticartisans.com or call 732-291-0100. All ideas are to be submitted no later then January 30^th.

Atlantic Artisans, LLC is a gallery that was designed to exhibit local and American artisans in all styles, all mediums and not just wall art. We also custom frame and sell art supplies. Atlantic Artisans is always looking for a way to bring the arts to all in a unique and creative way and the exhibit of “Live Art” can do just that. So, if you are an artist that wants to exhibit your art in a live atmosphere this event is for you.

T.O.: Standing by his quarterback

The NFL Playoffs are a big deal this time of year. In the wake of the Dallas Cowboys' loss to the New York Giants, Dallas wide receiver Terrell Owens came to quarterback Tony Romo's defense at a press conference. At the press conference, Romo had apparently been criticized for taking a brief vacation before the game this week. My only question...why is T.O. crying? It's over the top.

Latch key programs face financial hard times

According to an article in the APP, a Keansburg latch key problem is facing financial hard times. Click on the headline and go there.

Matawan mayoral race to be decided at the polls...again

Caption: Matawan Mayor Mary Aufseeser with Monmouth County
Democratic Chairman Victor Scudiery at the Monmouth County
Democratic Christmas Party, held at the Shore Casino, in Atlantic
Highlands, during the holidays.

The Matawan mayor's race will finally be settled today, when borough voters go to the polls to choose between Mayor Mary Aufseeser and Councilman Paul Buccellato. In informally speaking to supporters of both candidates, look for a very tight race in this contest.

Click on the headline and go to the APP story.

NJ American looks for 23 percent hike

More bad news for New Jersey rate payers. New Jersey American has its hand out looking for more money (as if anyone has anymore).

Click on the headline for the NJ.com story.

Atlantic City revenue falls

If ever there was a weather vain for disposable income it would be gambling revenue from Atlantic City. Click on the headline and go to the NJ.com article.

BIG BLUE WINS TRIP TO THE NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Manning & Co. out-fought, out-lasted and out-thought the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday in Irving.

Eli Manning hasn't looked this good his entire career. Meanwhile, I could have swore this Michael Strahan is the Michael Strahan of old during yesterday's game. Hey, the whole team showed up and put on an outstanding performance against the NFC's No. 1 seed. At the beginning of the season, the talk was if Head Coach Tom Coughlin was going to have a job at the end of the season, and here he is on centerstage.

Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers are having a remarkable year. Future Hall-of-Famer Brett Favre has alluded to the fact that they just find a way to win, during the regular season. Well, he's being a bit shy aboutt he fact that any team that has a Brett Favre is going to have a chance at greatness.

Personally, I have been a New England Patriots fan since 1975, when my Aunt Sue (who lived in Brunswick, Maine) used to tell me that being a Pats fan was a burden: "Do like me and just appreciate the hard work they put in during the week and enjoy going to the game." Well, Pats fans have learned to appreciate mroe than just a moral victory in recent years.

Is San Diego a good team -- absolutely. It's a great team with injured star quarterback, running back and wide receiver. The Bolts are going to face a relatively healthy undefeated Patriots team that isn't going to give it an inch. I expect a great fight from San Diego, but believe their season ends in Gillette Stadium this coming weekend.

My pick for the NFC match-up is more of a prayer than a prediction: The Giants beat the Pack in a sterling moment for Big Blue's D: 21-14 at Green Bay. Meanwhile, after a fierce physical game the Pats beat the Chargers, 35-28.

Click on the headline and go there.

Jags rookie safety does some trash talking

Long ago, it was made clear that professional athletes shouldn't be, universally speaking, hailed as role models for kids. It should be a matter of picking and choosing.

A young man who plays safety for the Jacksonville Jaguars, fresh off last night's playoff defeat, had some ungenerous words for Patriots future Hall-of-Fame quarterback Tom Brady.

Part of sports is sportsmanship, which seems to be lacking here. The Jags and their head coach, Jack Del Rio, had a great game, a great season and it is clear they have a bright future. When it comes to class, maybe that should be a period of instruction for their rookies.

Click on the headline to go to YahooNews!

Decoding the zip code

For those who want to demystify the enigmatic zip code. Click on the headline to go to a great Yahoo Answers about it.

Corzine takes to the road to sell his plan

Gov. Jon Corzine is on the road trying to sell his plan for raising tolls to the state.

It is an insult in this state to ask anything more of a citizenry that has been and will continue to be put through the wringer by each and every level of government. Mr. Corzine's plan is wrong, asks for more sacrifice when there has already been too much and it is out of line.

While Mr. Corzine's plan is bad, his administration has been used as an excuse locally, by some municipal organizations, like Middletown's committee, which insists on smoke-screening their own spend-thrift habits with state fiscal mismanagement.

Currently, there is not a level of government soaring above the pack. There is no party more qualified than the next. There are only politicians who are committed to raising taxes and politicians not committed to raising taxes -- and there is nothing in between. Tax raisers are 'bad,' and tax cutters are 'good.'

It should not be a matter of some politician telling the taxpayer why they are going to raise taxes, tolls or anything. It has come down to this being a time when elected officials who raise taxes should be thrown out of office in November, and elected officials who cut taxes should not, in my opinion.

I believe that taxation has reached a level that is beyond the citizenry's ability to bear, and any elected person who is asking for anyone's understanding in raising anything shouldn't expect a good response.

It is time for elected people in the towns, in the county, at the state, and in DC to cut taxes, wthout excuses, finger-pointing or stuttering. It's been too much for a long time: Now it's just off the charts.

Click on the headline for Mr. Corzine's "plan."

Monmouth Board of Elections is reorganized

For Immediate Release:

Consolidation will create much-needed efficiencies, save money

FREEHOLD – The Board of Chosen Freeholders has consolidated the operations of the Board of Elections and the Superintendent of Elections to create efficiencies and save taxpayer money.

Beginning today, all employees at the Board of Elections were to report to the Superintendent of Elections’ office. Both offices are located in the same building on Halls Mills Road, so a physical move is unnecessary. However, all employees now report to the Superintendent of Elections.

“After careful consideration and extensive research, the Board of Chosen Freeholders has decided to move swiftly with these transfers in order to facilitate preparations for Feb. 5 presidential primary,” Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry said. “Because the current Superintendent of Elections had previously served as administrator of the Board of Elections, I am confident this move will correct inefficiencies that have occurred in that office with regard to the upcoming primaries.”

In reaching its decision, the Board of Chosen Freeholders relied on N.J.S.A. 19:32-51, which states that “All employees of the county Board of Elections of the county hereby are transferred to the office of the superintendent of elections, but the Board of Chosen Freeholders may provide two clerks for the county Board of Elections and fix the salary to be paid to such clerks.”

Furthermore, the freeholders are satisfied that the provision is consistent with the statutory intent of N.J.S.A. 19:32-26, which authorizes counties of the fifth class to establish a Superintendent of Elections. It is also consistent with N.J.S.A. 19:32-53, which authorizes the turnover of all voting machines and miscellaneous documents, records, supplies and materials to the Superintendent of Elections.

The consolidation will save no less than $50,000.

The restructuring was triggered by the recent failure by the Board of Elections to prepare a timely Request For Proposals for the printing of voting authority pads, which voters sign before casting their ballots. This failure resulted in a scramble by the county’s Purchasing Department to obtain informal quotes. Even though election expenses are exempt from open public bidding, it is the county’s policy to have its vendors submit bids through the fair and open process when seeking a specifiable service such as printing.

“Fortunately, the Purchasing Department was able to obtain three informal quotes, but because the Board of Elections did not make a timely request or proceed with an RFP process sooner, the Board of Freeholders was left with this dilemma,” Director Burry said. “In order to move forward with requirements of the February primaries, the freeholders had no choice but to award the printing contract to the printer who offered the lowest quote without going through open public bidding.”

Further legal research has shown that N.J.S.A. 19:6-17 specifically states, “In all counties of the first class, the county (election) board may appoint some suitable person clerk of such board.” The statute further states that, “In counties of the first class, having a population of less than 800,000, the county board may appoint up to four additional office employees.”

However, N.J.S.A. 40A:6-1 defines counties of the first class as “counties having a population of more than 550,000 and a population density of more than 3,000 persons per square mile. Although Monmouth County has more than 550,000 residents, its population density is just 1,389 persons per square mile, making Monmouth County a designated county of the fifth class.

N.J.S.A. 40A:6-1.e defines a county of the fifth class as “counties bordering the Atlantic Ocean having a population of more than 125,000.”

“As a county of the fifth class, Monmouth County does not fall under the provisions specific to counties of the first class, which means the Monmouth County Board of Election does not have the authority to hire employees,” Director Burry said. “In fact, there is no statute authorizing a Board of Elections in a county of the fifth class to hire any employees.

“The Board is confident that this consolidation will ensure that the Feb. 5 primaries and all subsequent elections are handled in the proper manner,” Director Burry added.

Bean has a great 'Red State/Blue State'

Greg Bean has a great "Red State/Blue State" editorial this week, absolutely worth a look. While I certainly follow Mr. Bean's editorials, I don't frequently agree with then, let alone wholeheartedly. This is, in my opinion, an inspired piece. Click on the headlines to go there.

Rice says goodbye to RU

Rutgers' Ray Rice bids university farewell. Click on the headline to go to NJ.com. R

Oil price is on the rise: APP

According to the APP, oil prices are on the rise. It's not good news but it is the way it is. I suggest that in this environment, it is not the time for any governing body, in any municipality to increase the tax levy against its residents. Far from this being a time for extravagance, this is a time for lawmakers to not take the wide road of abusing their ability to tax their beleaguered citizenry.

Click on the headline for the APP article.

Should Giants invite Jessica to playoff game?

To say one is a fan is to admit to a leaning toward superstition. Whatever one may say about that, the fact is the last time Jessica Simpson was at her beau's game, they lost. Click on the headline to go to the NJ.com story about the coming match-up between "America's Team" and "Big Blue."

YouTube video of Iranian warship menace

Here is the recent video of Iranian fast boats threatening a U.S. warship. Best of luck to our brave men and women overseas.

Richardson drops out of Dem primary?

According to the AP, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson is out of the Democratic Primary. However, according to Countdown, host Keith Olberman said the Richardson campaign is denying that Richardson is out and that he has returned to New Mexico to conduct routine governmental business.

Where's the truth in it? Who knows. But click on the headline to go to the AP story.

Housing woes get worse as market continues spiral

Click on the headline to go to an AP story about the housing market.

No Big Secret: Hillary takes victory in N.H.

What's the next saga in Michigan: Ya got me.

McCain wins New Hampshire

Sen. John McCain has won the New Hampshire vote for the GOP. Click in the headline and go to the AP story.

Bayshore Young Dems launch new site

Middletown resident Matthew Moorehead, last election cycle's campaign manager for Walsh For Assembly, has launched a new site for the Bayshore Young Dems. Click on the headline and go there.

Are McCain, Obama cutting the herd?

Should Obama win today in N.H., I think it means Hillary is on life support waiting for the plug to be pulled.

It seems like a straightforward situation in the Democratic Party. Since Obama stands for virtually everything Hillary does, I do not think it will be hard to get that support.

In Northern Monmouth, I have noted a lot of "Hillary hatred" even among Democrats. I don't really get it, but there seems to be an "anti-Hillary bloc" she'll need to overcome.

The Republican race is a lot more enigmatic where it involves New Hampshire. Locally, Romney supporters from Middletown have gone so far as to travel to New Hampshire to conduct GOTV for the ailing campaign. There is a lot of energy around Romney at the upper levels of the county GOP, but the grassroots still seems to belong to Giuliani.

Should Romney limp out of New Hampshire with a loss, the expectation is that he will do well in Michigan. But, it just sounds like Romney's strategy is getting thinner and thinner.

If McCain does win in New Hampshire, then he has another life, and Huckabee's mission will be to finish relatively high and begin to significantly pick up whatever support he hasn't received yet from the Religious Right.

Giuliani's strategy is strange: Lots of energy in Florida, not so much in either Iowa or New Hampshire. Does he mean to bypass Michigan too? Can he afford it?

And what about Bloomberg?

Interesting stuff. Click on the headline and go to the AP story.

Do Clinton, McCain, Romney face being 'voted off island' in NH?

It's election eve in New Hampshire and nerves are fraying, hair is getting pulled out, candidates are sweating and Democrats and Republicans alike are trying to avoid elimination by capturing a win in their respective parties.

What's on the line for Hillary? Maybe everything.

It is likely the same for John McCain, who is considered a long-time N.H. favorite.

As for Romney, in the wake of an Iowa defeat, a N.H. win would put him right back on top. Without that win, is he a real contender anymore?

Meanwhile, fighting through the swamps and gators of Florida, all but forgotten by the GOP gladiators, is prodical front-runner Rudy Giuliani, pinning his presidential hopes on snowbirds, football fans and the air-conditioner crowd down South.

Where's this going? No idea. But it's not dull. Click on the headline to go to the AP story.

Ansel Adams exhibit going on in Princeton

There is an Ansel Adams show going on at the Princeton Museum of Art. The Asbury Park Press has a story about it in today's newspaper. For more information, click on the headline and go there.

Remarkably, Eli doesn't choke; Giants advance

Big Blue didn't advanced in the NFC Playoff picture today, by topping the Tampa Bay Bucs, 24-14. QB Eli Manning had a landmark day, looking every bit the investment the New York Football Giants put into Peyton's little brother.

WR Armani Toomer played a key role today, but really everyone stood up, which is notable. In general, the Giants have been a rubber stamp win, in my opinion, during the post season. What these guys have done is shut up detractors, like myself, but next week brings the vaunted Dallas Cowboys and yet another opportunity for Big Blue to disappoint.

They won today, against a strong opponent. The Bucs' offensive played a little too conservative until the closing minutes of the 4th Quarter, which is probably something that "America's Team" shouldn't do next week if they plan to advance.

Click on the headline to go to NFL.com.

National Treasure is dug into first place

According to the AP, Disney's National Treasure, starring Nicholas Cage, is still on top of the pile in top earning movies, while I Am Legend, with Will Smith, is posting a solid second. AP has a rundown of the box office during the weekend. Click on the headline to go there.

Some Harvard University scenes

Harvard University is, of course, steeped in tradition. It seems to be the beginning point for Cambridge, in so many ways.

When I parked in nearby Cambridge, I remarked about the lack of on street parking. To this, an attendant noted the flaws of the area: "No parking, the taxes are too high, it's too cold and there are all these left wingers here."

This summation quickly changed, as he extolled the Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins and Celtics. I suppose that must make things balance out for some.

Cambridge Artists Cooperative is a great stop

The Cambridge Artists Cooperative, 59A Church Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, is a great stop for anyone interested in crafting during a visit to Boston.

There is a wonderful selection of jewelry, pottery and the like, which is sure to interest. For more information about this, click on the headline or go to: www.cambridgeartistscoop.com.

During my brief visit to the coop, crafter Marcia Dean gave me a quick rundown about what the coop was. She is pictured in the photo, standing beside her massive quilt, which hangs at the front of the coop. Her e-mail is mdean@msn.com for anyone who wants more information.

New Hampshire is going to be make or break for some

There is some interesting movement in the GOP and Dem races for president, respectively. Where the GOP is involved, Romney has to emerge as a winner in New Hampshire, just to be able to keep playing in the race as an ultimately viable candidate, in my opinion. New Hampshire should be the race where he absolutely wins it (since he is a former Massachusetts governor). I think it's fair to say that if he can't win New Hampshire, he's probably not going to have a long life in the presidential race.

However, Huckabee seems to be coming on very strong in the wake of his Iowa win, and New Hampshire has traditionally been McCain country. So this is going to be interesting to watch.

As for Giuliani: At what point is the supposed front runner going to run up front?

In the Democratic Party, Obama is picking up speed. Personally, I have always been a Hillary Clinton person. But, with that said, Hillary needs to win in New Hampshire or it's probably going to mean she doesn't have what it takes to go to the next level. Ultimately, though, whether it's Hillary or Obama, I would personally vote for any Democrat over any Republican for president during this cycle. Obama, while junior and relatively inexperienced compared to the others in the field, stands for the right things, in my book, even if he isn't the candidate I would have picked ideally (because he didn't finish a whole term in the U.S. Senate).

Interesting stuff...click on the headline and go to the AP story about the GOP.

Boston's 'Dire Literary Series' is worth a trip to Bean Town

The Dire Literary Series is hosted by poet Timothy Gager at the Out of the Blue Art Gallery, 106 Prospect Street, Cambridge, Mass. (in Boston). The series is set up like so many around the New York and Philadelphia areas, but it has its own personality, which is special and compelling.

I attended last night's event, when featured speakers, poet Harris Gardner and writer Jackie Corley, read selections of their work. They were accompanied by seven "open mic" speakers who read their works as well.

Firstly, the background for the event, the Out of the Blue Art Gallery, is home to some local artists who are both wonderful and under-selling some very compelling work. I have not seen a better place for a reading series. While parking is a challenge (ala The Meadowlands), it is well worth the effort trying to find a space.

I forgot my camera for last night's event, and it's a shame, because the eclectic, thought-provoking and often wonderful pieces on display at this gallery absolutely merit chronicling and even a drive back later on.

At Mr. Gager's event, there was some of the best poetry I have heard -- period. Going to various New York events previously, getting through the poetry part of readings has sometimes been like navigating around a car accident to get to an acceleration lane on the highway. Often the wreckage has been upsetting.

But, during the night, both Mr. Gager and one of the featured speakers, Mr. Gardner, were two of the best poets I have heard. This is especially true of Mr. Gager, a former musician who is a University of Delaware grad.

Ms. Corley was outstanding in her rendition of "The Suburban Swindle," a short story she wrote several years ago.

Mr. Gager's packed house comprised a great audience, that included people with real interest in literature. In all, it was an experience worth a four-hour drive through 32-degree weather.

Mr. Gager's next installment of his series will be taking place at the Out of the Blue Art Gallery at 8 p.m. on Feb. 1, when he will feature writers Kim McLarin, "Jump at the Sun"; John Sheppard, "Santi: The Lives of Modern Saints"; and guest poet David Surette.

Fzor more information, click on the headline or go to: www.direreader.com.

OBAMA, HUCKABEE WIN IN IOWA!

Well, the wheels are in motion for Decision '08. According to the AP, Rev. Mike Huckabee has garnered an Iowa win for the GOP, while Sen. Barak Obama has won the Democratic vote for that state.

While GOP favorite Rudy Giuliani did not work all that hard in Iowa, and is making his fight in the road ahead, I can't help but believe this is a significant setback for the Romney campaign. Romney put forth a significant effort there.

Meanwhile, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton did seem to lose this one outright to Obama, though I am sure this is only the first round of several to come.

Questions: How is Rudy's campaign going to look in the wake of the Huckabee win? Is this a speed bump for Hillary or the beginning of a back-and-forth fight across the U.S.?

Click on the headline to go to the AP story.

Bean Podcasts about state deficit

Greg Bean, Greater Media Newspapers' executive editor, has a great podcast about state spending and the inevitable march into the fiscal canons that our lawmakers are doing. Click into the headline to go to GM's site and the podcast.