Freeholder McMorrow offers testimony at hearing

For Immediate Release:

June 16, 2008

Recommendations accepted; bill voted out of committee and to full Senate

TRENTON – Monmouth County Freeholder Barbara J. McMorrow has urged a state transportation panel to endorse newer restrictions on drivers who hold special learner’s permits and provisional driver’s licenses – the so-called graduated driver’s licensing system.

The amendments include certain recommendations of the Teen Driver Study Commission that are contained in the commission’s 2008 Final Report. Freeholder McMorrow, a former high school teacher and principal, served as co-chair of that commission.

“As a retired high school principal with more than 30 years in the educational profession and a founding member of the Monmouth County Traumatic Loss Coalition, I have attended too many funerals of young people killed in car accidents,” McMorrow said in testimony before the Senate Transportation Committee on June 9. “If we save only one life, it is worth the effort.”

Committee members accepted the recommendations and voted the amended bill out of committee. It now moves to the full Senate and Assembly for floor votes.

In her testimony, McMorrow asked the senators to move forward on three specific amendments to the state’s existing Graduated Drivers’ License Law (GDL).

• Return the use of the word “probationary” driver when referring to a driver on a restricted license instead of the word “provisional.”

• Limit the number of passengers a probationary driver may transport to just one, regardless of his or her relationship to the teen driver.

• Provide one curfew for both permit and probationary drivers under the GDL.

“While the recommendation to change the wording may seem inconsequential when it comes to reducing crashes and saving lives, the Commission believes that it will send a strong message to teens because of the word’s connotation,” McMorrow said. “Driving is a privilege that can be suspended when a license holder fails to drive in a safe, responsible and law-abiding manner.”

McMorrow told committee members that there is excellent research to support the limiting of passengers in a vehicle driver by a probationary driver. “A teen driver is 158 percent more likely to be killed in a crash while carrying two passengers; the risk increases to 207 percent when there are three passengers in a teen driver’s car. The increased risk is often the result of a distraction and others in the car encouraging the teen driver to take risks.”

The amended bill simplifies the Graduated Driver License by providing one curfew for both permit and probationary drivers under the GDL.

“Restrictions beginning at midnight are too late to affect the majority of nighttime driving crashes; it is therefore imperative that New Jersey’s restriction be lowered to at least 11 p.m., McMorrow said. “A one-hour reduction will result in a safety gain, while allowing today’s highly mobile teens to still participate in extracurricular activities and get to and from work.”

The Teen Driver Study Commission presented a total of 47 recommendations to the Gov. Jon Corzine on March 26.

McMorrow said her passion for enacting this legislation transcends politics, as it surely does for state legislators.

“I ask on behalf my students – a young man, one of triplets, who died in a car accident that critically injured his girlfriend while misjudging a traffic light; a young lady who, changing the station on her radio, drove into a tree and killed her best friend who was a front seat passenger; three young men (two brothers and a friend) who died when traveling too fast and hitting a divider.”

Letter: Chumming for Votes with Red Herring

Editorial Note: Middletown Democrat for Township Committee Jim Grenafege has written a letter in response to one printed by Middletown Republican for Township Committee Anthony Fiore. Thanks for thinking of the Clamdigger for sending the letter in. Where it involves either Republican or Democratic perspectives, please feel free to send in letters anytime. -- The Management

To The Editor:

Anthony Fiore’s letter: “Police cuts put residents at risk”, June 8, is inaccurate and misleading. I never “urged” or “proposed” that the Middletown Township Committee reduce the size of our police force. I commented on costs and revenue generation; inquired if “layoffs” or “freezing positions” had been considered. I rigorously pursued how thoroughly head count had been analyzed and productivity studied.

Middletown Mayor Scharfenberger said he “looked to cut everywhere”, including “staff”; and he cited our police department as an example of productivity and efficiency. He commented on overall head count reduction of township staff through attrition that spanned several years. Township Attorney Reilly reiterated Scharfenberger’s comment regarding staff, which prompted me to ask if staff could be reduced further.

If one applies Fiore’s reasoning, then Mayor Scharfenberger’s consideration of everything, including staff, as a source of possible cost reduction infers proposing and urging reductions in the police force; therefore, the Mayor’s statements imply the safety of Middletown residents could be at risk. Most people would consider this an inane conclusion.

Critical inquiry and diligent examination of options, in the interest of promoting open and transparent government, is at the core of the democratic process. Encouraging participation in this process and supporting our police force are vital to the health of our community.

Fiore acknowledged he is in a contest with me for a seat on the Middletown Township Committee. It appears that he intentionally manufactured an issue in an attempt to gain that seat. This is disturbing. Even more disturbing is his use of our police force as a ploy to send a deceptive message. There are many real issues and challenges for Middletown that require open, honest and respectful discussion, and rigorous non-partisan debate and resolution. The public deserves not to be intentionally misled by a candidate, or any elected official.

Fiore chose misrepresentation as the means to self-serving ends. What is the cost of his chumming for votes with red herring; and who truly pays that cost?

James Grenafege

Locust/Middletown, NJ 07760

June 16, 2008

Atlantic Artisans hosts "Opera in the Gallery"

Atlantic Highlands, NJ – Atlantic Artisans is entertaining Atlantic Highlands with “Opera in the Gallery” a free night of music and art Friday, June 27^th. Opera by Carly McIlvaine and art by oil perpainters Eunice Vellon, Highlands and Michael McCrink, Atlantic Highlands. Preview party 5pm, Opera 7pm.

Opera singer, Carly McIlvaine, will be presenting a concert of best-loved opera arias. Carly has sung classical music all over the world, including Beijing, China and Zurich Switzerland. She is currently a member of the National Chorale, which is the resident professional Choir of Avery Fisher Hall. The concert serves to bring opera music to the public in a more relaxed setting than the traditional concert hall. The concert maintains the multi-media nature of opera through performances surrounded by the visual arts of the galleries.

Atlantic Artisans is located at 68 First Avenue, Atlantic Highlands, NJ, www.atlanticartisans.com, 732-291-0100. An art gallery of local and American artisans, custom framing available and art supplies for the professional to the beginner.

Bongiorno: A Republican by any other name?

Middletown Mike...

By Mike Morris

Who needs Republicans when there are Democrats like this? Every town has one, a self–loathing, disgruntled Democrat. A person who is registered as a Democrat for the sole purpose of giving validity to their bashing of the Democratic party, their policies and candidates, in order to help the rival Republican organization. One can only speculate on their intentions or motivation.

Do these individuals feel that by supporting the opposition it will give themselves or some other family members special favors or advantages over other people if they are seeking a job with a municipality, or maybe a favorable variance or zoning change to help with a construction project? We can’t be sure.

What we do know though, is that these people participate in organized letter writing campaigns by either writing letters themselves or by lending their names to other people’s writings. These letters always seem to generally address the latest Republican talking points of the day.

In Middletown, this person resides in the heavily Republican section of Lincroft and his name is Dominick Bongiorno.

For the past six or so years, Mr. Bongiorno, a registered Democrat, has repeatedly written letters to local publications (this one included) critical of the local Democratic Party, it’s candidates and elected officials, always in an effort to praise the Republican establishment.

Letters from Mr. Bongiorno first started appearing during the 2002 campaign season. He praised and supported the local Republican incumbents, Mayor Patrick Parkinson and

Committeeman Raymond O’Grady over their Democratic opponents. In hindsight, I am sure that Mr. Bongiorno regretted his support after both men were later disgraced, Parkinson for settling a sexual harassment suite that was brought against him by the former township clerk and O’Grady for being sent to jail for taking bribes as a participant in Operation Bid Rig.

During 2007, Mr. Bongiorno turned his letter writing energies against newly elected Democratic Committeeman Patrick Short. Patrick Short, a West Point graduate and retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who was elected to the Township committee in 2006, to become the first Democrat to hold elective office in Middletown in twenty years.

Typical of other letters written about Mr. Short last year, Mr. Bongiorno’s were less than factual and filled with the current Middletown GOP talking points of the day.

A third letter written last October again parroted other Republican letters that appeared in print critical of the Middletown Democratic candidates and their campaign for office.

Mr. Bongiorno's most recent letter, which has been printed in the various local papers over the past few weeks, truly shows his partisan Republican roots. In his letter he now makes a feeble attack on the other Democrat sitting on the Township committee, Sean Byrnes.

His letter falsely accuses Mr. Byrnes of delaying the vote on a resolution against the new FEMA flood maps. If Mr. Bongiorno had been keeping up on the issue, instead of passing along Republican talking points and trying to politicize the issue, he would have read all about it in several articles that had been published in all of the local papers.

The reason for the delay in adopting the resolution was not Byrnes's fault. The changes in language that Mr. Byrnes and the rest of the committee had agreed to during the previous meeting were not there, which was the inclusion of Congressman Frank Pallone’s name to recognize his efforts in delaying the flood maps.

When the resolution came up for adoption Committeeman Brynes made a motion to include the compromised to language. The vote that night was split along party lines 2-2 because Deputy Mayor Pam Brightbill was not present and Mayor Scharfenberger and Committeeman Wilkens had for some reason, a problem the inclusion of Pallone’s name. It was then put off until the whole committee could be present at the next workshop meeting.

During the following workshop meeting, Committeeman Byrnes, in a true bi-partisan gesture, offered to include Assemblywoman Amy Handlin’s name in the resolution to recognize her efforts in leading a petition drive against the FEMA flood maps.

Mr. Byrnes’s amendment and suggestion to include both Middletown’s Federal and State representatives was ultimately included in the final FEMA resolution that was unanimously approved 5-0 by the Township committee.

Committeeman Sean Byrnes should be applauded for his bi-partisan efforts on behalf of Middletown, not scorned by partisan attempts like Mr. Bongiorno’s, to politicize a very important issue that affects residents of Middletown, but the whole Bayshore area as well as the country.

In the past, members of the Middletown Democratic Party have made numerous attempts to talk with and invite Mr. Bongiorno to their gatherings and Mr. Bongiorno has declined those invitations. It is quite obvious therefore that Mr. Bongiorno is conveniently a Democrat by label only. And for reasons only known to him, has decided that it is in his best interest to parrot and spread the local GOP propaganda.

For more on Middletown Mike, click on the headline and go to his blog.

Art in Red Bank: It's a date

I was finally able to pay a visit to the Asher Neiman Gallery, Monmouth Street, Red Bank, this weekend. Normally art galleries can seem snobby to me, but that was definitely not the case here.

The work of world-traveling photographer Stewart Halperin is on display. His photographs put emphasis on the details in a world of setting, including Italy, New York City and Africa.

The woman at the gallery was kind enough to explain how the color jumps out of Halperin's work due to a special type of printing. Although he uses a digital camera, the photographs are printed on matted paper, rather than glossy, which absorbs the colors more.

The exhibit, "A World of Radiance," will be open until July 18 and I recommend you stop by. It is a beautiful exhibit in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.

I also met an artist who will be featured at the gallery in upcoming months named Francis. He is doing something remarkable with 3-d effects in his paintings. I will post here when I find more information about his exhibit.

Click on this post's headline to visit the gallery's Web site.

Bridge demolition delayed

Highlands residents and visitors can escape increased traffic this July Fourth.

After Senator Sean Kean's urging, the Monmouth County representative and New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Kris Kolluri came to an agreement to postpone demolition of half the Route 36 bridge, and the loss of two lanes, until after the holiday.

"With the influx of tourists during the summer, traffic congestion in this area is already a serious problem," Kean said. "Closing lanes of the bridge during the summer will only add to an already difficult traffic situation.

The demolition and the shift of traffic to the northbound side of the bridge was slated for June 23.

DOT Director of Communications Erin Phalon said the state agency would be working on electronic communication and monitoring equipment before the intended plans continue.

Check for a more detailed story in Thursday's Courier.

-- Alyssa Passeggio

Whipporwill Valley Road

As a part of my video coverage of Monmouth County folklore I am looking into the legends surrounding Whipporwill Valley Road, Middletown.

It was mentioned in Weird NJ and I have heard people from around the county reference it as a creepy way to excite a dull night.

If you have ever been to Whipporwill Valley Road please share your tale! E-mail your experience or comment here. I will use submissions during my next report for Courier Online.

Click on this post's headline to see my last installment on the Dancing Jesus in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chapel Hill Road, Middletown.

Pending collapse of U.S. dollar?

This video is a bit harsh where it involves the possible collapse of the U.S. dollar. But, it does bring some very pertinent issues to light. While U.S. President George Bush is not the sole problem regarding this nationally, I dare say he has done nothing to help this and probably everything he could to aggravate this condition.

FEMA flood map issue should have been bipartisan all along

Assemblywoman Amy Handlin, R-Monmouth, has absolutely politicized the process of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issuing new flood maps in the Bayshore.

This is to the detriment of the issue, without doubt.

Before the validity of the new FEMA flood maps should be addressed, the more important thing for Bayshore residents to do is to back the current bill before Congress by Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., which is the only thing in this world that will stop the re-issuance of these flood maps.

Regardless of this fact, Mrs. Handlin and a host of her GOP supporters on the municipal level have made every effort at obscuring this fact among a flurry of activity surrounding her petition drive. Notably, FEMA has already made it clear on the record that this petition drive will, in no way whatsoever, influence the agency’s decision to reissue flood maps. So, the first part of the work is to stop FEMA from executing these maps, through supporting this vital piece of legislation by Mr. Pallone in Washington, D.C. Of course, Mr. Pallone’s bill, if made law, is only a temporary measure, but it gives all-important breathing room for this area to make its case to the Federal Government.

Middletown Democrat for Township Committee Jim Grenafege said, “What I would like to see is that the issue is not politicized. I would like to see Assemblywoman Handlin partner with Mr. Pallone throughout the Bayshore and use her voice to back this legislation. I see this as her job as an elected official. This hasn’t been done.”

Mr. Grenafege said Mrs. Handlin does not have primacy in this issue, as a state-level official. However, she is a voice for the people and he believes she should “join the chorus” supporting this bill and stop being divisive. “This is a time for teamwork,” he said, and I think he is right.

Mrs. Patricia Walsh is Mr. Grenafege’s running mate this fall. She said the Middletown Committee should be the main cheerleaders for Mr. Pallone’s bill in this area. “Rather than arguing the politics of names on a resolution, as Deputy Mayor Pamela Brightbill did, Middletown should initiate real action to benefit the citizens of Middletown.”

Mrs. Walsh said that the committee should be making sure it has established a procedure to provide lower cost insurance through the community insurance rating instead of investing time in useless arguments.

“Besides doing the well thought-out information sessions that Mr. Pallone is providing. The township must put forth a resolution supporting tax credits for residents, future rebates for flood insurance holders that are not impacted by flooding and partnerships with primary lien holders on mortgages and loans that mandate their participation in helping to pay flood insurance premiums,” Mrs. Walsh said.

The fact of the matter is that ‘politics-as-usual’ is business-as-usual in Middletown and the Bayshore. In particular, Middletown Republicans have taken such an adversarial attitude toward working with Democrats that it has blinded them to effective community governance.

Instead of the Middletown Committee offering the best possible solution to community problems, they often resort to the best ‘Republican solution’ for a problem, which has nothing to do with the benefit of the community.

Municipal office, like all office, is a matter of stewardship. No one person or group has a claim to permanent leadership in any community or any level of government. Rather, it was the intention of those who crafted our system of government that every elected official must earn the respect and trust of the governed through their record of service. In my opinion, the Middletown Committee majority’s current system for resolving problems is very challenged, and echoes of Party Machine tactics that have become so well-identified with this county to date.

If there is to be change and reform, it will be in the spirit of action within communities. Quite frankly, the Middletown Committee majority tries to talk a good game about bipartisanship, but falls abysmally short where it counts – in results.

APP: NJ home sales down 30 percent

The Asbury Park Press has a story about how Garden State home sales are down by 30 percent in New Jersey. This is reflective of what's going on around the rest of the country, though. Click on the headline to go to the APP.

Fierro Avenue residents have had enough

Courier Senior Staff Writer Alyssa Passeggio has written a good story about the Matawan Borough Council's work on limiting the amount of parking on Fierro Avenue. Reportedly, there have been more than a few complaints about the traffic pattern there. Consequently, the governing body is considering an ordinance to stem parking there. Click on the headline to go to The Courier Online.

Menna: Dismissal was unfair from atty post

Greater Media's Erin O. Stattel wrote a story about Matawan's former borough attorney, Pasquale Menna, and his dissatisfaction about being canned. Last time I checked, appointees to political bodies serve at the discretion of those bodies. Mr. Menna is calling foul because he believes his dismissal was political. In fact, his appointment was political also. In fact, the whole darn process is political -- that's why such positions are termed "political appointees."

Click on the headline to go to Ms. Stattel's story.

Giuliani offers to help GOP candidates raise bucks

The ex-NYC hizzoner, Rudy Giuliani has a deal for GOP candidates. He wants to help them raise money, in return for a portion of proceeds going to pare down his own campaign ledger sheet.

It's an interesting situation. Click on the headline and go to the story at NJ.com.

Sen. Beck on how to stem gas tax in Trenton

Sen. Jen Beck, R-Monnmouth, represents New Jersey's 12th District. She has an innovative idea for stemming the proposed state gas tax. Without doubt, Sen. Beck and her Assembly colleagues, Declan O'Scanlon and Caroline Casagrande, have done some of the best work from Monmouth in Trenton this year. This is refreshing and, particularly as a 12th District voter, I am glad the lights are on somewhere with the Monmouth delegation.

In the end, partisan political babbling doesn't get it done. But I get the idea that Sen. Beck is short on babble and long on hard work. This 12th District delegation is special. It works hard. Their efforts are apparent. Congrats, folks.

McCain: Jersey 'winnable' -- I don't think so

In an APP story, Presidential candidate John McCain does two things: complains about the Supreme Court decision saying that non-residents held in custody cannot be so forever without charges being leveled and he believes New Jersey is winnable by the GOP.

Personally, I think the notion that there have to be legitimate charges against someone being held in custody is pretty much a minimum -- regardless of what race, creed, color, or national origin involved. Why was this ever a discussion?

That New Jersey is "winnable" by the GOP is speculative. The GOP is responsible for the war, the economy and, according to Sen. McCain, a lot more war in the future. In fact, the GOP is promising that this country will stay at war (e.g. keep lying to Americans about the nature of this war), stay in trouble monetarily/economically and there will be a lot more of the same. I guess Sen. McCain is running on the GOP record and -- somehow -- he thinks that is good.

This was the most disastrous period of American history nationally, in my opinion, with the most flawed leadership in this country's experience. Far from embracing it, Republicans should be running away from this nonsense as far and fast as they could. America couldn't sustain four more years of this variety of alleged leadership, regardless how much rhetoric is wrapped around these misdeeds. Anything would be better. Nothing could be worse.

Click on the headline to go to the APP.

Tim Russert dies

Popular television personality and political commentator Tim Russert has passed away. Certainly, he will be missed by many fans across the country. Click on the headline to go to YahooNews!

John McCain satired in 'music video'

U.S. Presidential candidate John McCain is parodied in this YouTube video, complete with some interesting musical effects.

Bark the Vote 2008 sends a clear message to voters

"Bark the Vote 2008" is making a difference in campaigns and government, one small dog at a time. Click the video to go there.

Gas prices and New Jersey: Imperfect Together

Gas prices are up...is that really news anymore? If it is then it's not good news. Click on the headline and go to NJ.com.

Reported boycott going on in parking lot of North

There will be no senior picnic for seniors at Middletown High School North, Tindall Road. According to one concerned parent, seniors were reportedly told that they were "the worst class senior class in the history of Middletown High School North."

The picnic is an annual tradition that was reportedly scheduled for today. However, it's no picnic at North. Students are reportedly angry and it is being reported that there is a senior boycott that is under way at the school's parking lot. The parent says kids are gathering at parking lot and they are concerned police might be called in.

"The school is going to punish a whole body for one or two individuals. I question the whole motivation of the administration here. I do not understand what is going on with this," the parent said.

For any parents, please feel free to call into the newspaper, 732-957-0070 and let us know how you feel about this. Otherwise, e-mail: ms.melissa.gaffney@gmail.com. Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney is reporting on this story.

UPDATE: As of 9:30 a.m., Courier Senior Staff Writer Alyssa Passeggio reported that students were not in the parking lot. According to a source, the student event had been "headed off." However, more information about this situation will be forthcoming from Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney, on her blog Simply Sable, later today.

Kyle Grooms spoofs Barack Obama

U.S. Sen. Barack Obama is spoofed by comedian Kyle Grooms. For more on Barack Obama, go to M'Town Mike by Mike Morris at The Courier Online.

Lou Dobbs to run for Garden State gov?

Will TV talk titan Lou Dobbs run for governor? According to NJ.com, there is some talking.

Click on the headline and go there.

Best to chairmen Oxley and Scudiery

Congratulations to Monmouth County Republican Chairman Joseph W. Oxley and Monmouth County Democratic Chairman Victor V. Scudiery. These are two great individuals, who have a lot of integrity. I wish them the very best for their upcoming terms as chairmen of their respective parties.

Monmouth politicians' photos for sale at print room

I am selling photos of Monmouth politicians, including for editorial or commercial use, for a small fee. The gallery is relatively small right now but will certainly build. I am going to avoid placing unflattering photos of anyone for sale, as that somehow seems classless.

Click on the headline. If you're a follower of Monmouth politics, either party, chances are you'll end up knowing a lot of people. Gallery will build every week. I think I'll be able to get most everyone. Click on the headline to go to Print Room.

Pizarro pens piece about new Oxley era

On the Politicker, site Staff Writer Max Pizarro has written a piece about Sen. Joe Kyrillos and his endorsement of former Sheriff Joe Oxley as chairman. This is a thoughtful piece, and very timely considering some of the rumormill surrounding this year's event. Click on the headline to go to Mr. Pizarro's piece on the Politicker.

Coverage for tonight's partisan conventions

MONUMENTAL MOMENT MOVES CLOSER? Monmouth Republicans and Democrats, respectively, will be selecting chairmen for their parties tonight. Democrats will return veteran Chairman Victor Scudiery to office, while Republicans are likely to install former Sheriff Joe Oxley as their new leader.

The Courier is going to cover tonight's Republican and Democratic conventions, respectively. Senior Courier Staff Writer Alyssa Passeggio will be covering the Republican Convention, being held at Colts Neck High School (7 p.m.). Meanwhile, Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney will be covering the Democratic Convention, being held at the Shore Casino, in Atlantic Highlands (6 p.m.).

Stories will be posted on Ms. Passeggio's, Ms. Gaffney's blogs. In addition, digital video will be shot at the Republican Convention. By request of the county organiztion, video will not be shot at the Democratic Convention. However, both conventions will be covered, in detail, by still photography.

Obviously, this is a big night for Monmouth County going into this year's Fall Classic. At the very least, tonight is the unofficial beginning of the Summer Campaign Season. Start checking for video, posts and stories by about 9 p.m. tonight.

Helping seniors with digital TV transition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2008

CONTACTS:
Menendez Press Office 202-224-4744
Ashley Glacel (Kohl) 202-224-5364


SENS. MENENDEZ AND KOHL LEAD CALL FOR COUPONS
FOR THOSE IN NURSING HOMES, CARE FACILITIES

Senators call for quick rule change to assist residents of these facilities in purchasing converter boxes

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Herb Kohl (D-WI), Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, along with 13 of their colleagues, are urging the agency in charge of the digital television transition coupon program to expedite a rule change that will allow residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities to receive coupons to purchase converter boxes. Since these seniors do not have home addresses of their own, they were originally left out of the coupon program. Though the National Telecommunications and Information Administration is working on a rule change to include them, every day that passes is a day less that seniors have to prepare for the February 17, 2009 transition to digital.

“The public airwaves should be accessible to everyone, which is why we need to include every American in the transition to digital,” said Senator Menendez. “Millions of our nation’s seniors will be relying on these coupons to ensure that their TVs still receive a signal after the digital transition, and we have to make sure that the ones in long-term care facilities are included.”

“With only eight months left until analog televisions go dark, the NTIA needs to move quickly on this rule change,” Senator Kohl. “For some seniors in long-term care facilities, television serves as their only link to the outside world. It is imperative that the NTIA make these government-issued coupons available to seniors no matter where they live.”

An estimated 21 million Americans rely on over-the-air broadcasts and will need a converter box. Forty percent of them are seniors.

Lautenberg, Zimmer in statistical dead heat

According to the PolitickerNJ, incumbent U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg is in a statistical dead heat with former Rep. Dick Zimmer. I think the GOP did well for itself selecting Mr. Zimmer as a candidate. Meanwhile, I am sure that Mr. Lautenberg, a great senator for this state for many years, is going to be on the Campaign Trail and making a case for why he should go back to Washington D.C.

My opinion: Both these guys are very distinguished lawmakers. It's going to be a good race. The Politicker has the story. Click on the headline and go there.

Aberdeen men undergoes trial for pet abuse

An Aberdeen man is in court facing charges of pet murder. This is a terrible story, really. But the APP has a good story about it today. Click on the headline and go there.

6 ways to stop wasting gas

This is the most pertinent informational feature I have seen in a long time. Click on the headline to go to YahooNews!

The big question finally answered: Old England vs. France

Thanks to the great folks at YouTube, the eternal question is finally answered: In a tug of war for a chew toy, could a French bulldog outmaneuver an Old English bulldog? I won't give away the ending.

In tatters, Bush tries to help the economy

The economy is terrible. America is in a recession. Government is spending an epic amount wastefully. The president has an idea about how to turn everything around. My lack of optimism cannot be overstated. Click on the headline to go to YahooNews!

Alleged tagger arrest in Union Beach Borough

Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney has posted a story about an alleged tagger being arrested in Union Beach by the police there. The reported "tagger" has been arrested on a few counts, according to the Union Beach police. Click on the headline and go to Melissa Gaffney's Simply Sable.

Middletown Dancing Jesus

I am working on a new YouTube series with The Courier Online that will talk about area myths, legends and tales.

Today I filmed a piece about the Middletown Dancing Jesus in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chapel Hill Road. The legend has been passed down for generations but has recently been cited in Weird New Jersey.

When viewing the video you may notice the overbearing wind. This is the second time I have filmed here and, although the wind didn't seem bad at all, it is very difficult to hear the video. Perhaps, there is more to this legend then we even thought! So click below to view the video and be sure to send in any suggestions for future installments.

Good riddance to Nets: You can keep 'em Brooklyn!

According to a post at NJ.com, a Thursday rally in Brooklyn brought out about 3,000 to support the Atlantic Yards project there (the future home of the soon-to-be-former NJ Nets). The event was held to support the $4.2 billion project, and included free hot dogs and T-shirts near Borough Hall.

As a former Nets fan (after they decided to dis Jersey), my opinion is 'good riddance.' I wish them the same playoff success they had in Jersey. New York already has one terrible pro basketball franchise: Now they can double the disappointment. Jersey fans put up with decades of disappointment from this team and kept supporting it. This is how they get paid back. Nice.

Click on the headline to go to the NJ.com post.

Beck, O'Scanlon, Casagrande to Dems: 'We're here to help'

PRESS RELEASE

June 3, 2008

Contact: Tom Fitzsimmons
(732) 933-1591

Twelfth District legislators Senator Jennifer Beck, Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon and Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande, responding to news reports that Democrats were unable to agree on Gov. Corzine's budget, on June 3, sent a letter asking reform-minded Democrats to work with Senate and Assembly Republicans to pass a "reform coalition budget" combining elements of the Governor's plan and the Republican alternative plan unveiled last Thursday.

"There are 31 Assembly Republicans and 17 Senate Republicans who suport the Republican alternative plan we put out last Thursday," said Casagrande, "and from the sound of it, seems like there are a few Democrats who are on board with some of the reforms we suggested. Maybe it's time for a reform coalition of like-minded legislators from both parties to meet in the middle and pass a budget that reflects the true priorities of a majority of New Jerseyans."

Assuming all Republicans voted for the coalition budget, it would require only 10 Assembly Democrats and four Senate Democrats to vote for the compromise plan for it to pass.

Melissa Gaffney is soliciting questions to candidates

Courier Staff Writer Melissa L. Gaffney is collecting questions from Middletown residents that she will pose to candidates -- well, she'll pose 'em but it's another matter entirely if they'll answer 'em.

I think it's pretty much a lock that the Dems will, Mr. James Grenafege and Mrs. Patricia Walsh. Where it involves the Republicans, I would go 50-50 with Mr. Anthony Fiore. But, it would be a longshot in my book if Mrs. Pamela Brightbill answered anuthing at all.

LETTER OF THANKS FROM MIKE KELLY

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

On January 17th, my life and that of my family was put on hold. That morning I went to work, and then around 7:00 AM, I received a call of a fire at my house. Talking to my wife on the phone I checked with her to make sure everyone was out of the house. I have been a police officer serving the Borough of Union Beach for over 30 years, and believe me when you answer a call at your own residence it is quite emotionally distressing.

Things become very hectic, and you scramble to deal with all emotions and aspects of what do we do next. So now that after five months of moving twice, taking care of my family, and trying to rebuild, you take a moment to reflect.

You sit back and thank God that this happened in the morning and not at night when all were asleep. You’re grateful that the Fire Department drilled in your head to check your smoke detectors every year. You stop complaining about how this can happen, and be conscious of the fact even when this is occurring you look at your family and know they are all ok. You appreciate the long hours of training these firefighters put in, and their families for allowing them to serve, as you to look in awe people you know as neighbors instantly become professional emergency responders working to save everything that is dear in your heart.

My family and I would like to publicly thank the Union Beach emergency services, in particular, the men and women of the Union Beach Fire Department, the Union Beach EMS, the Union Beach Emergency Management, and the officers on my department. The professionalism accomplished on the scene might only be outdone by the compassion and sincerity they have all shown my family during this crisis, and the well wishes we still receive to this day. They truly make you realize that it is a privilege to work along side them, however, and more importantly, it is an honor to know them all and be able to count them as friends.

Chief Michael Kelly
Union Beach Police Department

"Middletown Mike" joins Monmouth blogosphere

Middletown resident Mike Morris, an avowed County Democrat, has taken to the blogosphere in Monmouth. Personally, I think it's great to have a Democratic blogger in the midst of what has become a GOP-dominated area of communication. I have known Mike for some years, and find that he is someone who is a great guy and a family man before he is a political type. So, I expect to see some really great perspectives coming out of "Middletown Mike."

Bean takes on Appeals Court/Eminent Domain in podcast

Greater Media Executive Editor Greg Bean isn't optimistic about the decision of a N.J. appellate court in the case of eminent domain in Long Branch. Mr. Bean highlights the carnival act that has been Long Branch's redevelopment in his editorial podcast. It's good and worth the listen.

I have to admit this new format takes some getting used to, though, as podcasting is still something new when it comes to me. I guess the march of time goes on, but it sure does remind me that I'm getting older. I still remember when people had to go inside for their banking, stop at a phone booth to make a call if they were out, or needed to sit down to read an editorial. Well, the most important thing is what's said anyway. Click on the headline to go to Mr. Bean's podcast.

McGreevey-Matos divorce ending? One can hope

The McGreevey-Matos divorce case is finally with the judge. I don't suppose banishing the ex-Gov. is a possibility, but hopefully there is light at the end of the tunnel where it involves an end to "McGreevey Watch."

Ex-Gov. Jim McGreevey was a disgrace as governor. He allowed his personal nonsense to be a criteria for how tax money was spent and that is reprehensible. A lot of people put their trust in this joker, and he turned out to be a shining example of the very worst in American politics and government.

While his personal life is his own, and any of the baggage that came with it, Jim McGreevey was a cheap carnival huckster as a public servant. The sooner he is gone from public life and notice, the better. What a monumental disappointment of an elected official. Click on the headline to go to NJ.com.

Good Primary Day recap by PolitickerNJ

Incumbent U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-NJ, was a dominating figure during this Primary. Meanwhile GOP candidate Dick Zimmer overcame a well-organized opponent in "Jersey Joe" Pennachio. Click on the headline to go to a good election recap at the PolitickerNJ.

Passeggio: Highlands experiencing 'not-so-good vibrations'

Courier Senior Staff Writer Alyssa Passeggio has posted about how Highlands is experiencing shaking because of the Highlands bridge construction that has started. How is this impacting residents in the borough? Click on the headline and go to "Read All About It," by Ms. Passeggio.

Hidlay promoted at Gannett; company undergoes slimming

According to INPRINT, Vol. 19, Issue 6, William C. "Skip" Hidlay was named as the president and publisher for the Courier News, Bridgewater, and the Home News Tribune, Woodbridge, both Gannett papers. In addition, he will publish two Web sites, mycentraljersey.com and centraljerseymoms.com.

Formerly, Mr. Hidlay was the executive editor and vice presidewnt/news for the Asbury Park Press. Congratulations to Mr. Hidlay after a strong tenure at the APP and best wishes for the future.

In other news, Gannett offered buyouts to 160 workers at most of its New Jersey newspapers. According to INPRINT, offers were made to those over 55 years old with at least 15 years of service.

The newspapers impacted included: The Asbury Park Press, the Courier News, the Courier-Post, Home News Tribune and the Daily Journal.

Tobia discusses traffic protection trucks

Monmouth County Department of Public Works Director John Tobia discusses traffic protection trucks being used on ther job. This translates into both safety and economy.

Also in frame was Monmouth County Director of Public Information William Heine and Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney. The interview was conducted today, at about 9:15 a.m. and is part of a larger story being written by Ms. Gaffney for next week.

Mallet & Mason Sail Through Democratic Primary Election

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
Michael W. Mangan
June 3, 2008
Spokesman

Office: 732-922-2700
mike@monmouthdems.org

Candidates Call for Reduced Spending
and Reforms to County Government

OCEAN TWP – Democratic Candidates for Freeholder Amy Mallet (D-Fair Haven) and Glenn Mason (D-Hazlet) swept the Democratic Primary Election yesterday, taking 3,182 more votes than the Republicans. As the campaign moves into the General Election phase, the candidates pledged to cut spending and end Republican corruption when party control changes in November.

The Primary showed further the desire for change, with Democrats outvoting Republicans up and down the ballot in Monmouth County. With the Primary Election behind them, the candidates have launched their campaign to change Monmouth County government. Recent electoral successes and some 40,000 new Democrats in Monmouth County now put Mallet and Mason within striking distance of creating the first Democratic majority on the Board in 20 years.

“We have had tax and spending increases for the past twenty years in Monmouth County and its time for that to change. We need to cut spending now – and not just the same old rhetoric during and election year,” said Mallet. In 2005, then-candidate Lillian Burry ran on a platform of cutting spending. Since then, Ms. Burry has raised spending every single year.

Democrats also pledge to bring honesty and ethics back to the board. Over the past 20 years, public officials in Monmouth County numbering in the dozens have been arrested, indicted, or convicted, for illegal activities while in their public positions. “It’s time to finally and permanently close Club Monmouth and put the horrible chapter of waste, fraud, and abuse in Monmouth County behind us,” said Mason.

# # #

John Tobia interview with The Courier

CAPTION: Monmouth County Dept. of Public Works Director John Tobia has been interviewed for next week's edition of The Courier.

I gave the John Tobia story to Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney because she knew absolutely nothing about him and the background from last year. Consequently, she did learn about the controversy surrounding his appointment and his work beyond that. Frankly, it was startling.

Mr. Tobia has saved Monmouth County a lot of money -- into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. He gave a good interview, better than I thought he would. He was vey open and showed how he has saved taxpayers money. Mr. Tobia consented to YouTube filming, and I think he did incredibly well there. Frankly, I would have had no problem finding Mr. Tobia's faults as head of county public works and putting them out there as big as I could. But, there weren't any. He's good at what he does, and he is increibly competent. Monmouth County has been the better for his tenure thus far.

Melissa Gaffney will have the article next week in The Courier (we ran out of time and space in the paper) but will have the YouTubes posted and some commentary at her blog, Sable Minded. Click on the headline to go there.

Best two choices running for U.S. Senate

The best two choices to represent New Jersey in the United States Senate have, in my opinion, been nominated to run for office. Incumbent Sen. Frank Lautenberg, a great public servant and accomplished businessman, is contending for office against former Rep. Dick Zimmer, the creator of Megan's Law.

I do not have an opinion yet about who should win, and it is soon for that. But I do think New Jersey has a couple good guys challenging to represent it. Click on the headline to go to the APP story about it.

AP: Obama will win Democratic nomination

The AP is predicting Sen. Barack Obama will win the Democratic nomination for president, defeating Sen. Hillary Clinton.

I was just talking to someone about Sen. Obama and the other guy (a Republican) said that was good news for the GOP. I countered that, given the state of the economy, the unpopular war that is contributing to that poor economy, and the level of confidence this nation has in its government, I wouldn't be counting too many chickens.

Sen. Obama is a good candidate, and the other side of this question (the GOP) is going to fight hard to throw all kinds of accusations against him. Long story short: he couldn't be any worse than we've had for eight years. The Republican Party helped themselves when it picked Sen. John McCain, but is it too little little too late?

Sen. Clinton has reportedly offered herself as a potential VP, according to CNN, and Sen. Obama has been endorsed by former President Jimmy Carter.

Well, it looks like the fat lady is finally singing.

Conti throws his hat into the ring in Hazlet

Hazlet resident John Conti, 66, has filed a petition today to run as an independent in the upcoming Hazlet Township Committee race. According to Conti, "I am not happy. I think the committee can do more to offset taxes than they are doing."

Conti is head of the Hazlet Business Association, though he was clear his run has nothing to do with the HBA. "This has nothing to do with that. I have not even asked for support from that organization."

Conti is the owner three mobile home parks in the township. He has been a member of the business community in Hazlet for more than 30 years.

The candidate is a true independent, who has alternatively supported candidates from either party. "I focus on the best person for the job based on qualifications," he concluded.

There is one open seat on the governing body this year, which comes with a three-year term.

Committee action is symptom of a larger problem

In Middletown last night, the governing body adopted a resolution supporting Rep. Frank Pallone's legislation in Washington D.C. to place a moratorium on FEMA issuing new flood maps. The resolution had to contain the name of 13th District Assemblywoman Amy Handlin, though, or it would not have passed. It had to acknowledge her petition drive.

Assemblywoman Handlin turned the whole FEMA flood map issue into a partisan matter by coming out of the gate a few months ago swinging for Pallone in her early community meetings, obstensibly organized to address the flood maps. However, nearly from the beginning of this controversy, Rep. Pallone crafted a bill to stop the issuance of the new flood maps, giving some time for the agency's methodology to be addressed before finalization.

Perhaps trying to eye her next office, Mrs. Handlin has been preoccupied with the politics of it all. Far from endorsing Mr. Pallone's bill, she just doesn't address it. Instead, she gathers signatures on a petition that asks FEMA not to issue the maps (a delay -- same thing Pallone is trying to do) and for action from Pallone (which he has already done).

FEMA's representatives have made it clear they aren't going to change a darn thing about what they are doing as a consequence of Mrs. Handlin's petition. However, her energies could have been useful in informing area residents about Pallone's bill. But that would be too bipartisan for an office holder that places party above common sense or effective service. One of the least effective legislators in Trenton, perhaps a less egocentric view of government service might assist in getting something accomplished in office (other than PR campaigns for strictly public digestion without any other effect).

Mr. Pallone's bill will, if adopted, give the Bayshore another shot at getting these maps amended. But FEMA said it will do nothing at all as a consequence of the petition because FEMA is governed by Congress, and so the bill is the only thing that will work.

In Middletown, in line with the party above common sense war cry, the Republican majority on the committee acted as if they had never heard of Pallone's bill, or his efforts in Washington D.C. aimed to getting this important measure approved. Rather, they were cognizant of the Handlin petition, which accomplishes nothing and makes a lot of noise while doing it.

If Middletown's Republican majority cannot summon enough common sense to understand the ability of this bill to assist this area directly, nor have the wherewithall to work cooperatively with other office holders, even if they are of another party, then they should not hold office. Last night, it was made clear the Republican majority on the committee were not even aware of the actions of their congressman to remediate this matter, and at that point this ignorance surrounding party nonsense has gone too far.

This bill needs to be supported by this area. It needs to be adopted in Congress. And, Middletown needs a new majority.

Obama will meet Clinton 'once the dust settles'

Sen. Barack Obama said he is willing to meet Sen. Hillary Clinton "...on her own terms..." after the Democratic Primary is over. Obviously, Sen. Obama is confident. The last thing anyone needs is a presidential candidate that isn't. Still, there are fences to be mended, and I think that's pretty obvious.

Sen. Obama's openness is laudable, and timely, considering the goings on of the Democratic Party on a national level over the past month or so.

Click on the headline to go to the story.

'Eternal Primary' weighs on Democratic grassroots

I certainly do not agree with this Manhattan woman, but she has something to say -- and she's not shy about saying it. While I do not think what she is saying is even right, it is a perspective and a part of the argument that is going on.

The Democratic Party is experiencing some strain with the ongoing Primary. I really do not think that the 'eternal contest' is doing anything positive for the Democratic Party or for the issues that this country has to debate for the General Election. And, this is an example of that. Click on the YouTube for more.

NY Times backs Lautenberg in Primary

Long story short: Rob Andrews isn't going to be either the candidate or the office holder that incumbent U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg is. In my opinion, it isn't just that Lautenberg has more money or name recognition. Andrews just isn't the guy.

The NY Times has written an editorial endorsing Sen. Lautenberg. I totally agree.

My opinion: The race to watch this fall is going to be Zimmer-Lautenberg. Click on the headline to go to Lautenberg's site, where there is a copy of the NY Times' editorial.

Hindsight is always 20/20

In the May 29 issue of The Courier, under the article titled “Local officials questioned by prosecutor’s office,” headshots were run of the two Highlands Democratic councilmen. The prosecutor’s office is investigating all the council members who served last year, and we regret any confusion the photos may have caused by not running any Republican headshots.

County releases open space grant applications

All Monmouth towns are eligible to apply by Sept. 17

FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders is once again soliciting applications from municipalities wishing to compete for a share of $2 million from the Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant Program to create or expand local park facilities.

Applications for the latest round of grants have been mailed to all 53 Monmouth County municipalities. The deadline for submitting a grant application is 4 p.m. Sept. 17, and only complete applications will be considered for funding. Grant awards will be announced in December 2008.

The grants, part of a competitive matching-funds program for municipalities, are administered by the Monmouth County Park System and funded through the Monmouth County Open Space Trust Fund.

“I encourage all of our municipalities to submit their plans for park improvements or open space acquisitions,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Monmouth County Park System. “This is an excellent way for towns and the county to partner in providing recreation and open space to benefit our residents and the environment. Quality parks and open space contribute positively to the quality of life here in Monmouth County.”

All 53 Monmouth County municipalities are eligible to apply for funding awards. Last year, 20 towns successfully submitted requests for grants seeking a total of $3.9 million, of which the Board of Chosen Freeholders approved 11 applications and awarded $2 million in grants.

“The Freeholders are proud to be a part of successful municipal park projects,” said Freeholder Director Burry. “The Borough of Bradley Beach recently completed improvements to two parks, Neptune City was able to improve Adams Field Park and Manalapan Township was able to acquire two parcels of land adjacent to its existing recreation center.”

Further information on the grant program can be found at the Monmouth County Park System’s Web site at www.monmouthcountyparks.com or by calling 732-842-4000, ext. 4472.

In November 2002, Monmouth County voters approved expansion of the existing County Open Space Trust Fund to include monies for cooperative projects with municipalities within the county. The Board of Chosen Freeholders formally established the program in 2003 and began allocating $2 million annually to municipalities.

Letter from Mike Morris about town government

EDITORIAL NOTE: I received a letter in yesterday from Middletown resident Mike Morris. I encourage folks to write on in. It's always good to get more voices involved with the community. Thanks, Mike, and please keep sending them in.

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

Much like their Republican counterparts down in Washington DC, the Middletown GOP is devoid of ideas and is morally bankrupt. Mayor Scharfenberger, Deputy Mayor Brightbill and Middletown GOP candidate for Township Committee Anthony Fiore and many of their cronies and supporters, such as Middletown Republican County Committee members Michael Vitkansas, Cathy Rogers and James L. Hinckley, or GOP supporters like Kathy Russo and Kira Nelsen, must rely on secrecy, deception, lies, finger pointing, character assassination and name calling to cover up their inequities. Whether it is an ongoing attempt to discredit their Democratic colleagues on the township committee, Patrick Short and Sean Brynes, or the ongoing smear campaigns against community stalwarts’ former Assemblyman Joe Azzolina or former chairperson for the Middletown Human Rights Commission Carolyn Schwebel and township citizens like Don Watson, their policies and actions speak volumes about their integrity and character.

The Middletown GOPers are content with their borrow, spend then tax policies. They have refused to listen to or consider proposals to eliminate the need for tax increases from Patrick Short and Sean Byrnes or take seriously the input of township residents when it comes to the ongoing budget process. Instead, Michael Vitkansas recently wrote that he was “outraged” at the thought that residents could possibly know better then his GOP leadership, when it comes to formulating an operating budget for the township. Mayor Scharfenberger also wrote recently that “proposals by Mr. Byrnes and Mr. Short, after a collective scrutiny by all involved in the process, it was determined that they would have decreased revenue in the township, but would have increased the size of the budget by several million dollars”.

Mr. Mayor, a few questions please, who was involved in collectively scrutinizing Mr. Byrnes and Short’s proposals? It certainly did not include Byrnes or Short because they expressed shock upon reading your comments.

How is it possible to have open, transparent government and trust in our elected officials when secrecy and deception is the norm for the Middletown GOP?

Mayor Scharfenberger and his fellow Middletown republicans need to stop blaming Trenton for the mess that is Middletown’s budget. Reduced state aid, pension funding and other mandates affect every town in the State, not just Middletown. Middletown needs to learn how to deal with it. It is time to cut spending, not increase it and live within our means. Practically doubling the township debt ($48 million - $80 million) from 2003 to 2008 and dolling out a 35% raise to the Township Clerk, are not examples of fiscal conservatism that the Mayor wants everyone to believe that they practice.

At a recent public meeting in the Oak Hill section of town, Mr. Scharfenberger again showed the lack of ideas and vision that is missing from the Middletown GOP. Again the Mayor attempted to link the proposed “Town Centre” project with the Middletown Democratic Party, telling the attendees that if you vote for a democrat, then Town Centre will definitely be built. As we know, this is a total falsehood; at no time has any Democratic candidate supported the Town Centre project. Anyone with the slightest knowledge of the history behind the fight against Town Centre knows that Democratic Committeeman Patrick Short lead the fight against its development. As a result of this fight, the republican leadership, which had originally proposed the project to Mr. Azzolina and given it’s blessing to the project back in the 1990’s, were compelled to stop the project, which has since lead to a costly legal battle between the Township and former Assemblyman Azzolina.

If Town Centre is built it will be as a result of this legal battle, not by the support of the Democratic Party.

The retaliatory and mean spirited attacks against Carolyn Schwebel are a disgrace. As a member and Chairperson for the Middletown Human Rights Commission for close to twenty years, she dedicated herself to the service of helping others less fortunate then herself, only to be dropped from the commission because she questioned why Middletown had failed to comply with changes that where agreed to in order to settle a lawsuit, which pertained to the Americans with Disabilities Act in 2007. Being a disabled person herself, Mrs. Schwebel was fulfilling her duties to ensure that Middletown was accessible to all individuals not just the more fortunate.

Mayor Scharfenberger’s personnel attacks against Don Watson and anyone who would dare to question or point out the Middletown GOP hypocrisy is totally unprofessional and shows his lack of moral fortitude. Instead of directly answering question that are raised, the Mayor and his Republican colleagues feel that it is necessary to continually address old news, in an attempt to discredit the legitimate concerns of Mr. Watson and other dissenting voices.

Is this the type of leadership that the citizens of Middletown voted for or deserve?

I can go on and on about the wasteful spending and the costly pet projects that are buried deep within the Township budget, much of which is hidden throughout various line items in the budget with little or no explanation. Is it any wonder then, why it is so difficult to get a proper answer from our elected GOP officials? If this practice is the model for which the League of Municipalities recommends to its members to follow, I have to wonder then who is watching out for the taxpayer?

It is truly sad to see that those who campaigned on a “New Faces, New Ideas” platform 3 years ago have nothing new to offer those that they represent. The only thing that is offered is more of the same type of government that the people of Middletown do not want.

APP: Lautenberg, Andrews clash in campaign

Gannett has done a story about the Democratic Primary. Just my opinion...Lautenberg by a lot. I think a General Election between Republican former Rep. Dick Zimmer and Sen. Lautenberg is going to be interesting. The Primary...not so much.

Click on the headline to go to the story at the APP.

Manoes gives interview about superintendent controversy

I accompanied Courier Staff Writer Melissa Gaffney to this evening's meeting of the Keansburg Board of Education. The central issue on many peoples' minds is the retirement package given to the outgoing schools superintendent. The retirement package is worth the better part of a million dollars and many critics, in the borough and around the state, are upset.

Ms. Gaffney asked BOE President William "Billy" Manoes if he would consent to a YouTube interview and he did. In all candor, Mr. Manoes and his school board colleagues were not the borough school board to adopt the contract, but are quite open about their position. This is a very difficult thing for anybody to do, and the transparency with which Mr. Manoes and this board are conducting themselves is, in my opinion, laudable.

Ms. Gaffney did an excellent job covering this issue and her story in this week's upcoming edition of the newspaper is going to be an excellent one.

There is also a story about this on NJ.com for some additional information.

Click on the headline to go to Ms. Gaffney's blog, Simply Sable, for more information.

Canterbury Fair to be held on June 14 in Rumson

RUMSON (MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ) -- St. George's-by-the-Sea, Waterman Avenue, will host its 60th Annual Canterbury Fair on Saturday, June 14th, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., rain or shine.

The fair appeals to all ages and features a wide variety of sale items, including the famous Canterbury Kitchen, plants and flowers, vegetables, books, jewelry, silent auction items, as well as the traditional White Elephant and Canterbury Craft treasures.

The children will enjoy a petting zoo, clown, balloons, cotton candy, penny candy, face painting and lots of fun and games too.

There will also be a lobster salad lunch event, and the entire family is invited. The Outdoor Food Committee provides hamburgers and hotdogs, while the Tea Garden offers delicious iced tea with mint and homemade desserts.

All proceeeds support local outreach and charitable organizations.

Canterbury Fair chairs Bronwen Small, Carolyn Sapone and Nate Cagle are gearing up with their committee chairpersons to make this year's 60th an old-fashioned way to spend the day.

For more information: St. George's Parish Office, 732-842-0596.

Back to Jersey; Happy Memorial Day Weekend

While Chicago was an interesting visit, it's back to Jersey and work on Tuesday.

During the Memorial Day Weekend, it is a great time to remember all of the men and women who have paid the ultimate price for defending our nation. It is also fitting to remember all of those men and women that continue to serve our nation at home and around the world.

Happy Memorial Day to you and yours.

The Hideout Inn: A Chicago secret

CAPTION: The Hideout Inn, 1354 W. Wabansia, in Chicago, Illinois, and
bar tender Marcilyn, last night before yesterday's "Dollar Store" event.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS -- If ever you get around Chicago way, a great nightspot off the beaten path is the Hideout Inn, a bar that has been operating since the 1930s.

The Hideout Inn is located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., in the city.

More than simply just somewhere to drink, the Hideout Inn is a great place for local atmosphere and friendly folks. Was Capone ever there? No idea. But there must be a reason it was called the Hideout.

A bar tender on duty last night, Marcilyn, said the bar was a gathering place long before the 1930s, though. "It just seems like someplace people always came," she said.

A notable regular event at the Hideout is the Dollar Store show, hosted by author Jonathan Messinger and musical host Abraham Levitan of Baby Teeth. Last night, The Dollar Store welcomed authors Kevin Sampsell and Diana Slickman.

The myth of Chicago pizza: Fact or fiction?

After checking out an incredible Chicago pizzeria yesterday, I thought about the eternal pizza question: Is it better than the Jersey Shore's?

Being partisan to the Bayshore, I have to say that Chicago pizza was different, and perhaps almost an acquired taste. But it is solidly good. As good as Anthony DePompa's in Keansburg? Not a chance. Nothing shabby, though, don't get me wrong.

For a Shore resident used to pie from Seaside Heights or the Bayshore, it didn't exactly meet the hype. But, it's good nonetheless.