Courier News - the voice of the bayshore

Terroristic attacks to natural disasters “It’s part of the job”

Courtesy of "THE COMPASS" bi-monthly publication of NWS Earle MWR — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - Wil Fetherman takes his job as Installation Training Officer very seriously. But he's got a great sense of humor that makes the job easier and the results more effective.

The retired Navy Chief, who spent 20 years as a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy, working primarily with Marine Corps units, took over the Training Officer position last November, a day before his official retirement from the Navy.

A native of neighboring Pennsylvania, he knew he wanted to retire some place close to home. That idea solidified into retiring in New Jersey after he was stationed at NWS Earle in 1995, met Mary Claire, a Jersey girl, and the couple married two years later. Today, they are purchasing their first home, in Shark River Hills, and Mary Claire is the human resources director for Earle.

Animated, knowledgeable, and intent on his work, Wil said he was eager to work at Earle as a civilian..."It was my first choice"... so when the position with Battelle, the Ohio based company that is a contractor for emergency training on base, came open, he quickly applied.

Now, less than four months into the job, Will is busy putting together and planning all varieties of training for personnel on base. The result is, hopefully, a civilian and military body of workers prepared to act or react in any eventuality from a terroristic attack to a natural disaster.

Describing himself as "a klutz" during his teen years, Wil said he saw enough of the interior of hospitals and emergency rooms to know he would enjoy working on the positive side of health care. Believing he had neither the appetite nor aptitude for college, he opted instead to join the Navy and sign up as a Hospital Corpsman.
The decision spelled out a career that took him from Corpsman School to stints, with the Marine Corps, at the Naval Hospital at Camp LeJeune, later to Okinawa, the Med, Saudi Arabia, and more enticing towns like Naples and Rome.

But it was the 1995 transfer to Earle and marrying Mary Claire that made a significant difference in the life of this Sailor. "MC encouraged me to go to school," he explains, "and knowing how interested I was in public health management; we both knew it was necessary to have a formal education." Wil subsequently earned an undergraduate degree in health care management and a master 's degree in emergency and disaster management, both from Touro University in California, giving him a strong background for the civilian job he holds today.

If it weren't for the Navy, he admits now, looking back at his teen years, "I'd probably still be doing what I did then...working in a bowling alley or a supermarket."

His job at Earle entails planning for any type of disaster, and ensuring personnel are educated in how to meet any untoward eventuality. And he brings fun and a sense of humor into lessons that are deadly serious.

"It's part of the job to ensure that the training is realistic enough so people know what they have to do, or what they will do, in a real world incident," he explains, his hands gesturing to encompass the enormity of the project. "And that's also the most fun of the job. ...Coordinating drills, using smoke machines..."

His job is made easier, he quickly concedes, because of the cooperation and teamwork exhibited at all levels, from the chain of command through department heads. "There are no egos involved here," he continues, "everyone just wants to get it right; nobody says ‘I don't want to play...' "

There's really no such thing as the stereotypical terrorist, "the training officer explains, "we have home grown terrorists now, and there isn't any one description that fits all." He doesn't talk a lot about his stint in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where part of his job was to ensure the health and health needs of the detainees, a chore he did not particularly enjoy, primarily, it would seem, since he was stationed in Washington, D.C. on 9-11, 2001, and saw first hand the destruction and death at the Pentagon. But he did enjoy subsequent work in Afghanistan when, in addition to being part of a surgical team there; he also helped set up a hospital, dug wells, and improved health standards for the local people. "You know," he shrugs, "we did the kind of stuff you don't hear or see in the main stream media."

Right now, Wil believes he has come full circle, and is looking forward to his next step forward. He loves being back at Earle, which, he thinks, is a lot different from what it was 15 years ago. "But it's still small enough and friendly, where we all know each other by first names. It's a great place to be."

Billing disputes rank high on consumer complaint list

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County highlights (Consumer Protection Week.) - In today's economy everyone's attention is focused on paying their bills, mortgage or rent, taxes, utilities, car payments and so on.

The Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs is also focused on bills. As consumers report a rising number of billing disputes, department staff investigates auto repair shops, mail order purchases, utility companies, doctors, dentists, hospitals and other professional services.

"This is our biggest complaint from consumers," said Patricia Watson, director the county's Consumer Affairs department. "It concerns billing disputes that people have with businesses across several categories. Most often consumers report that they are being incorrectly billed or that they are unable to cancel services even when they were told that cancellation was allowed.

In most cases, the Department of Consumer Affairs can help. To get additional information or to file a complaint, call 732-431-7900 or visit the county website at visitmonmouth.com.

This awareness effort is part of the county's participation in National Consumer Protection Week, March 7-13. This nationally coordinated consumer education campaign encourages individuals across the country to take full advantage of their consumer rights.

This year's theme; Dollars & Sense: Rated "A" for All Ages - highlights the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life, from grade school to retirement. The various partners are promoting free resources to help people protect their privacy, manage money and debt, avoid identity theft, understand credit and mortgages, and steer clear of frauds and scams.

"The message of National Consumer Protection Week 2010 is simple: It's never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer," said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the county's Department of Consumer Affairs. "Regardless of your age or financial situation, there are useful lessons to learn about spending and managing money wisely."

Thorne Middle School, debuts two important additions

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Middletown - On Thursday, February 18, 2010, Thorne Middle School unveiled two very important additions to their school community - The Lion's R.A.C.K., an acronym for Random Acts of Clothing Kindness and The Vocational Room, a life skills activity center for students with special needs.

The R.A.C.K. will be an on-going clothing drive providing a comfortable place for students to go "shopping" for needed clothes at no cost to them. Two special groups of students will operate The R.A.C.K.: the multiple disabilities class, who will be sorting clothes according to type, and the Alternative Education Program (at-risk students), who will run all other aspects of the program, including identifying sizes.

Special Education teacher Kristyn Corace comments, "Many students here at Thorne need assistance with clothing. As our students are always provided with help from teachers and the community, this presents an opportunity for them to give back to other people. The program is modeled on the legacy program created by a beloved Thorne teacher, Kathleen Weinstein, who started the Random Acts of Kindness at Thorne. Tragically, we lost this wonderful lady and educator in a senseless murder years ago. We view this program as a way of continuing her tradition of helping others selflessly."

Ms. Corace and Sue Mosley, the Alternative Education teacher, both collaborated on this program, believing their two classes would work very well together. They then set out to contact various businesses for help in making the room an affordable reality. Justin Stetka, Business Administrator Manager of Lowes, answered the teachers' request with a very tempting invitation to "go shopping" in his Holmdel store. The ladies loaded a few carts with storage containers, clothes racks and portable closets.

Mr. Stetka and Loews were only too happy to help. He comments, "We get lots of requests, but we had no problem doing this for them as it involved the needs of others."

On the day of the opening, eighth grader Jordan Barrett was busy sorting and folding clothes. He remarked, "I like helping my school and people who need clothes."

Sue Mosley explains that The Lion's R.A.C.K. program instills the values of good citizenship and promotes social and communication skills in her students.

She adds, "This experience also teaches important life skills and enhances the student's self-esteem by allowing them to help others who are less fortunate than themselves."

On one wall of the room shared with The R.A.C.K. clothing facility is The Vocational Room, a special place created for Thorne's students with special needs to work on employment and life skills, which are essential for success in the high school vocational programs. The students in the Multiple Disabilities (MD) and Language and Learning Disabilities (LLD) classes will work in an office-like environment with appropriate equipment. Activities include using a copy machine, sorting mail, preparing materials for and using paper shredders. Students work on increasing their fine and gross motor skills by sorting items, completing assembly projects, using a letter-making machine, filling out electronic job applications, cleaning and other custodial jobs and much more!

NJDOT launches statewide pothole repair campaign

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Jersey - Aggressive effort announced to combat aftermath of harsh winter weather. New Jersey Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner Jim Simpson joined NJDOT road crews today to kick off the springtime pothole repair season.

The commissioner is closely monitoring the condition of New Jersey roadways and joined pothole-repair crews on the job to emphasize the importance of this task.

"Filling potholes is a year-round safety priority at NJDOT, but the job intensifies each spring when the weather helps create large numbers of these road hazards," Simpson said. "With hundreds of our employees on patrol and motorists reporting potholes to us, we will tackle this perennial problem in a timely manner."

NJDOT pothole repair crews are fanning out statewide as workers make permanent repairs to what is expected to be a bumper crop of potholes this year due to the unusually harsh winter weather. Commissioner Simpson encouraged motorists to report potholes online at state.nj.us/transportation or by calling 1-800-POTHOLE.

Since January, NJDOT road crews have filled about 45,000 potholes with cold asphalt patch material. With the arrival of warmer weather, they are starting to switch to hot asphalt patch material, which provides for longer lasting repairs.

NJDOT expects to repair more than 150,000 potholes for the fiscal year ending June 30. Last year, the department spent $2.2 million and used 4,800 tons of patch material to fill 121,000 potholes.

New Jersey residents play an important role in helping the department identify the location of new potholes as they develop on the nearly 13,000 NJDOT-maintained lane-miles of interstate, U.S. and state highways, including ramps and shoulders. Last year, residents used an online form to report 15,000 potholes and other roadway problems and reported about 4,000 potholes using the telephone hotline.

Discarded census forms cost NJ federal aid

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County - Census forms will soon arrive. Data determines states representation and share of roughly $400 billion in annual aid. With so much riding on the results of the upcoming Census, Senator Jennifer Beck, Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande and Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon, all R-Monmouth and Mercer, are encouraging all residents to make sure they are counted so that New Jersey is fairly represented in Congress and does not lose any federal aid because of an inaccurate count, according to the press release.

"It takes just a few minutes for someone to answer 10 questions on the Census form, but failing to do so could cost New Jersey a seat in Congress and important federal aid for schools, hospitals and other worthwhile projects for an entire decade," said Casagrande, the ranking Republican on the Assembly State Government Committee that has been focusing on the Census. "In fiscal year 2009, census data determined how 84 percent of federal funding was allocated. Every person who fails to properly fill out a form could cost their community more than $1,000 in aid every year."

Representatives of the 12th Legislative district are using traditional and social media as well as visiting churches, schools and other community organizations in an effort to spread the word that everyone has to be counted.

"We cannot risk an inaccurate count because we did not reach out to groups that may be afraid of providing information to the government or that may not fully understand the Census," O'Scanlon said. "The Census is a national endeavor, but its results could affect our communities for the next decade. We cannot squander this opportunity and must ensure New Jersey and its communities get their fair share."

Beck said everyone has an obligation to make sure every Census form is filled out and returned to the federal government.

"The Census is much more than a head count," Beck said. "It affects funding that will help our communities withstand the state's severe financial problems and will determine how we are represented in Trenton and Washington. This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to make sure that New Jersey's voice is counted and needs are funded."

More information about the Census, including links to the federal Census page, can be found on the Assembly Republican web site, njassemblyrepublicans.com, or the Senate Republican web site, senatenj.com. Constituents who have additional questions may call the 12th District Legislative offices at (732) 866-1695 or (732) 933-1591.

Middletown Arts Council partners with schools providing master instrumental classes

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - "How do I hit the high notes? "How do I sustain my breath?" "How do I go from c to f on the high register?"

These were all questions Middletown middle and high school clarinet students asked master clarinet teacher and professional musician Richard Grossman. Mr. Grossman conducted a 90-minute lesson on everything a student wanted to know about the clarinet and did not have the opportunity to ask in band practice.

He, in turn, asked the students, "Did anyone ever crush their reeds in frustration?" To which every hand in the Middletown Arts Center's (MAC) theatre went up.

Mr. Grossman then gave the approximately fifty students tips on reed care, which could be quite intricate. He explained that when reeds are brand new, they taste just terrible, so care should be taken to take them out of the box and let them breathe for awhile. Soaking them is also advised. Rubbing them for a few minutes between your fingers seals the grain. Even light sanding of the flat side with a fine quality sand paper can produce a similar result, which increases vibration for better tone quality.

The 90-minute professional lesson included professional performance pieces by volunteer musicians. Performing with Mr. Grossman for the session were Joseph Lawlor and Robert Slonim, (both retired Middletown band directors) and Greg Grispart, a Middletown elementary school music teacher. Following the instructional part of the class, students had the opportunity to practice and play a duet or ensemble piece with the musicians. These students all attend one of the district's three middle schools or two high schools. The lesson, however, presented the only opportunity to meet one another and actually play music together.

The program is the brainchild of Joseph Lawlor. Mr. Lawlor joined the MTCAC Board of Trustees as its Middletown School district liaison when he was a Middletown band director. He remained a Trustee upon retirement. As a liaison, he was charged with exploring opportunities for Middletown students to utilize the beautiful new Middletown Arts Center. The Master Class series was brought to fruition in late 2009 with the first class on the flute instructed by Marjorie Koharski, a professional flutist from Neptune. Monthly classes, which cover a different instrument each time, are scheduled for the rest of the school year. Classes are planned to repeat the same instrument each year. Different master musicians will be invited so the students get exposure to a number of professionals throughout their secondary school music careers. The cost is minimal and self sustaining. A $10 fee covers the lesson and transportation for each student between their schools and MAC. The MAC auditorium has the capacity to seat up to 240 spectators. The average Middletown classes have approximated 40 to 50 students per session.

Joseph Lawlor comments on the multiple advantages of the program, stating, "Middletown's schools each have their own band and perform in their own concerts. Very rarely do kids get to hear other Middletown school students who play the same instrument. I also think it will be very beneficial for these kids to meet and learn from professional musicians who demonstrate that their relationship with their instrument need not end with high school. They can play in college or in community bands."

Joseph Lawlor models this ideal for his students. He remains an active musician playing the saxophone, clarinet, and flute as well as the violin. He is one of three conductors of the Colts Neck Community band and plays with the Brookdale Community College adult jazz band. His fellow musician, Richard Grossman, (who he tapped to present the first master clarinet class) is a fellow conductor of the Colts Neck Community Band who also performs with the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Grossman played with the Hartford Chamber Orchestra and was a soloist at the National Clarinet Clinic in Denver. Richard Grossman holds a masters degree in music and has conducted other clarinet clinics locally and regionally.

He was very happy to respond to Mr. Lawlor's request to conduct the Master Class, stating, "I am very passionate about the clarinet and want to inspire the students with a different perspective so they can enjoy playing the instrument even more."

The students followed his direction intently mimicking his demonstration on breathing, and mouth, throat and lip formation in order to produce the best sound. Many volunteers accepted the invitation to demonstrate pieces of music first presented to them that day.

High School South senior Amanda Canny commented, "I thought the session was really helpful and I learned a lot. I trust that they knew what they were talking about (all the professional musicians) and I am glad to have had the opportunity to come and play."

Her classmate, High School South senior Billy Belke, agreed with her summation adding, "The instructor made me value my musical instrument even more just knowing that there are musicians who are willing to take the time to have us learn."

MAC Director Maggie O'Brien states of the Master Class program with the Middletown School District, "I am so excited that we can partner with the schools to increase our art opportunities for the Middletown students. It is an awesome way to supplement the great programs they have at the school, and provide enriching programs for the community. We hope to grow this program and expand to other disciplines in art, dance and theater in order to provide the students with programs they wouldn't necessarily access in their regular school program."

While the master classes began this year with just Middletown School District students, it is open to all middle school and high school-age students in Middletown. School and MAC officials are also investigating expanding the program to surrounding towns who may wish to send their students to the master classes. Anyone interested in learning more about the program can contact Ms. O'Brien at Mobrien@middletownnj.org.

Dinner and a pink T-bird a drive away

By MURIEL J. SMITH — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ – Bayshore residents are in for a treat if they're looking for a short drive, an economic evening of dinner and entertainment, and great theater with a cast heading to New York by the end of the month.

"1959 Pink Thunderbird," a two act play written by James McLure and directed by R.J. Lamb, is on stage at the Theatre at Priedaine, on Highway 33, in Freehold this weekend, with performances Friday and Saturday evenings, March 12 and 13, and Sunday afternoon at 12:30.

"We chose the Priedaine Theater because it's a wonderful theater with all the trappings that make it special," said Lamb, who is an actor turned director. He should know. He's been directing for more than 20 years and he's been there before. He also first presented this play in Clarksburg 22 years ago and is founder of Nine Theatricals, the company presenting the play, which he describes as "a drama with lots of comedy." Nine Theatricals...called so simply because Lamb likes the number nine...focuses on professional actors pursuing life time careers on the stage, and complimenting community theaters in the area.

"1959 Pink Thunderbird" is actually two separate plays, Lamb explains, since each act could be presented on its own. "But it's so much more fun seeing the entire picture in one exciting evening or afternoon of entertainment," he said.

The play, in the first act, focuses on three women ten years after high school, sitting on a front porch in the tiny town of Maynard, TX, talking about how their lives didn't evolve exactly as they planned and what life has been like in the town of only a couple of hundred people. The second act focuses on three young men of the same era, one a Vietnam vet who owned the Pink T Bird, which he had worked and saved for in high school and what happened to it later. "It's a slice of small town life," Lamb explains, "with a lot of humor, especially in the second act from guys who haven't quite grown up."

Casting agents, directors, producers and others seeking out professional talent are expected to be in the audience, Lamb said, since the cast is primarily comprised of young actors looking to continue in the acting field professionally. After the three presentations at the Preidaine Theater, the play and cast head to the New York Producers Club where it will be presented at the end of March.

The Preidaine is the amphitheater of the NJ Latvian Society, with a balcony and loge seating for up to 1,000 guests. Besides the large stage, there are below stage green rooms, dressing rooms, showers for the cast, as well as a main lobby that provides an attractive entrance to a very unique theater. The Society also has spacious outdoor areas where Lamb has staged summer productions, and is hopeful of continuing this summer with a comedy, "Eat Your Heart Out,' featuring a cast of five. "It's a wonderful place and a great setting to do theater," Lamb said.

The director is a graduate of the Academy of Theatrical Arts and has performed on stage in both New Jersey and New York. He turned to directing in 1982, when he was a youth advisor at St. Rose of Lima Church and School in Freehold, and, as a means of involving as many teens as he could in a fun and learning activity, directed "Our Town," with a cast of 26 and another 30 or more teens working backstage and in all phases of production. That experience led to community members wanting to be involved, the growth of the St. Rose Players to the St. Rose Community Players, and then, 28 years ago next month, to the South Street Players, still one of the most popular community theater groups in the area. Lamb is now working on his 85th production with the Players and candidly admits, "we're a bit different, and we do stretch the envelope!"

Tickets for 1959 Pink Thunderbird are $30 per person, including both dinner and the show, and guests are invited to bring their own wine or alcoholic beverages to compliment the dinner. Reservations can be made by calling 732-447-5169 or 732-462-4329 or on line at ninetheatricals.com.

Former Christian Brother takes the initiative against unfair treatment

EDITORIAL By SHAUNA CHANNER — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft (Monmouth County, NJ) - Behind the Swoosh, Jim Keady explained that this financial reality is true for thousands of Nike factory workers in Indonesia at the March 4 Brookdale Community College lecture.

Factory workers in Indonesian Nike factory plants manufacture products that gave the company 19.2 billion dollars in revenue and 1.5 billion dollars in profit. The products, painstakingly crafted, are made to the highest standards and versatility. So how does a billion dollar company reward its workers? Is it with benefits and bonuses? Could it be discounts and dividends? Not at all - these workers make a meager $1.25 a day according to Keady.

For a clear illustration, imagine that a top athlete, sponsored by Nike, plays their sport for two hours. At $1.25 an hour, the Nike factory workers would have to save for several years to reach that same amount. "In one second, many pro athletes make enough money to pay for a home in Indonesia."

Keady attended Christian Brother's Academy, located in Lincroft, N.J., where he played soccer. He was 18 years old and preparing for the life he pictured, "Go to college, get a good job, buy a nice house, and start a family." While studying theology and working as a coach for St. John's University, he began to research sweatshops and their unethical practices. When Keady was offered a Nike endorsement deal to wear their products, he refused. At this point, he began to shine light on these controversial issues.

Keady was singled out by Nike administrators and was even targeted on sport news. After accumulating such negative controversy, the head soccer coach gave Keady an ultimatum, "Drop the issue or get fired." Keady was released from his coaching position in 1984. He saw hypocrisy from many who said they were opposed to unfair treatment of people. "Are we only supposed to care for the poor and fight injustice only if we are getting paid?" he asked of the Brookdale audience.

To truly understand what these Nike factory workers endure, he and his wife traveled to Tangerang, Indonesia. He wanted to live as a factory worker and experience their exact and extreme conditions.

Life was not easy in Tangerang. In the slums where the factory workers lived, he and his wife slept on thin mats on an uneven floor. In the streets, the putrid sewage was open. Keady went on further to say that when it rained, if measurable precautions were not taken, the sewage would rise and seep into the home. He went on to talk about ‘the fist sized cockroaches and the football sized rats.' Toxic fumes from discarded shoe rubber burned near the areas where village children played.

When Keady's wife became sick, the $1.25 a day allowance necessitated a choice between buying her medication, or, to purchase another necessity. To buy a can of shaving cream, Keady had to sacrifice three meals. By the end of the trip Keady had lost 25 pounds. "How can people live like this?" he asked. "When we return home to the U.S., is anyone going to care?"

Nike has 37 contract factories in Indonesia. Keady identified many of the clothes the audience wore as probably also produced in sweatshops. Why not emphasize these places also?

Keady explained Nike is one of the top 50 famous brands. They produce over 50,000 products per year and they are located in 160 countries, therefore, it is important for them to lead by example. There is also a history of Nike worker issues; twenty five to fifty percent of workers have complained of verbal, physical, sexual and psychological abuse. Photos document that when workers have tried to organize against unfair conditions, they were beaten and bullied in front of all the workers. Over 15 years of research has been completed on the cruelty of these sweatshops in Indonesia.

While at the Nike headquarters in Indonesia, the employees were told not to talk to Keady. Upon leaving the offices, he was tailed by factory security and local mafia.

After repeatedly trying to reach Nike officials in the U.S., Keady finally traveled to the Nike C.E.O.'s office to discuss conditions. He was turned away. It was a subject that none of the administrators wanted to discuss.

Keady then took the initiative into his own hands. He began traveling throughout the United States to raise awareness of these issues. College students have taken a part to end these atrocities by e-mailing Nike's C.E.O. and joining Nike's facebook page. Progress has been made; workers have stated that conditions improved and unfair treatment has changed drastically.

Anyone can make a difference. A big part of the change has come from college students. Individuals can e-mail Nike C.E.O Mike Parker at mark.parker@NIke.com and cc to: info@teamsweat.org to tell him something has to be done. Individuals can join Keady's facebook page at: facebook.com/teamsweat.

The video titled, "Behind the Swoosh" can be seen on Keady's website teamsweat.org. Keady urges everyone to get informed and the spread the word.

The views expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of this newspaper or any representative of Bayshore Courier News.

In case you missed It 'We have no choice'

By Governor Chris Christie "New York Post" — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Adapted from Gov. Chris Christie's remarks to about 200 mayors at a meeting of the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

When I started in office, I had to close a $2.3 billion shortfall in the $29 billion annual budget -- and only $14 billion was left. Of that $14 billion, $8 billion could not be touched -- because of contracts with public-worker unions, bond covenants and commitments the state made in accepting federal stimulus money.

We had to find a way to save $2.3 billion in a $6 billion pool of money. The treasurer's office presented me with 378 possible freezes and lapses to balance the budget; I accepted 375 of them.

While public pay booms, private-sector work is tough to find: Waiting to speak to recruiters at a Rutgers job fair earlier this year.

There's a great deal of discussion about me doing that by executive action. Every day that went by was a day where money was going out the door such that the $6 billion pool was getting less and less. Something needed to be done -- and the people didn't send me here to talk; they sent me here to do.

As we look ahead three weeks to my fiscal year 2011 budget address, you all need to understand the context from which we operate.

Our citizens are already the most overtaxed in America. You mayors know that the public appetite for ever-increasing taxes has reached an end.

So we're going to reduce spending at the state level -- because we have no choice.

We also have an obligation to work with the Legislature to give mayors the tools to reduce spending at the municipal level. The pension and benefit reform package just passed in the Senate is only a beginning. We need to change the rules of arbitration to level the playing field. The ever-increasing raises being given to public-sector workers as a result of the arbitration system tells us that.

By the same token, I'm tired of hearing superintendents and school-board members complain that there are no other options than raising property taxes. There are other options.

After a two-year negotiation, Marlboro gave teachers a five-year contract with 4.5 percent annual salary increases -- with zero contribution to health-care benefits. Yet I'm sure there are people in Marlboro who've lost their jobs, who've had their homes foreclosed on, who can't keep a roof over their family's head.

There's something wrong.

At some point, there has to be parity between what's happening in the real world, and what's happening in the public-sector world. The money doesn't grow on trees outside government buildings. It comes from the hardworking people of our communities who are hurting right now.

In this instance, the political class (of which all of us here are members) is lagging behind the public. The public is ready to hear that tough choices have to be made.

They're not going to like it. But they're tired of hearing, "Don't worry. I can spare you from the pain." They've been hearing that for a decade, as we have borrowed and spent and taxed our way into oblivion.

State government has done every quick fix in the book. Now we're left holding the bag.

All of you know in your heart that what I am saying is true. You know that we can't afford these raises that are being given to public employees of all stripes. You know the state can't continue to spend money it doesn't have. And you know that the appetite for tax increases among our constituents has come to an end.

So the path to reform and success is clear. We just have to have the courage to go there.

What we're doing is showing people that government can work again for them, not for us. It has worked for the political class for much too long.

There's no time left. We have no room left to borrow. We have no room left to tax.

Forget about the next election, the next newspaper editorial, the next angry letter or phone call from someone who wants something for nothing. It's time for us to show courage and resolve.

We can do it -- because we are from New Jersey. And I have never, in all my travels around the country, met a group of tougher people.

Chris Christie is New Jersey's governor.

Would you like to provide a comment on this opinion column at the "New York Post"?

Middletown collects supplies for local Marine stationed in Afghanistan

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - Middletown's Support the Troops Program has been reactivated to collect supplies for U.S. Marine Corps First Lieutenant Nicholas Abbate, a life-long resident stationed in Afghanistan. Donations will be accepted March 3 through April 5 at Middletown Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway and the Middletown Main Library, 55 New Monmouth Rd.

Abbate, a weapons company platoon commander, and his 80-plus member infantry unit are dispersed throughout the Helmond Province. Suggested donations include black boots socks since there are no showers and soldiers must change their socks often. Instant foods such as ramen noodles, Easy Mac, tea bags, hot cocoa and others that only require hot water to prepare are a welcome respite from daily MREs (Meals, Ready to Eat). Other needed supplies include batteries (AA, AAA, C,D, 3-volt), cookies and other snacks, toothbrushes and toothpaste, razors and non-aerosol shaving cream, baby wipes, toilet paper, Q-tips, and pens. Children's art work and personal notes from home are always a welcome addition to care packages.

Abbate is a graduate of St. James Grammar School and Christian Brothers Academy. He graduated from the Naval Academy, Quantico, Va in 2006 with a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering and a minor in French. Abbate then received a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. After completing an infantry officer course he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Regiment Marines stationed in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Abbate served a tour of duty in Iraq before heading to Afghanistan.

More than two tons of supplies generously donated by local businesses and families have been shipped to soldiers serving in the Middle East since 2007. Middletown's Support the Troops Program, spearheaded by Mayor Gerard P. Scharfenberger, previously adopted paratroopers from Charlie Co., 1BSTB, 82nd Airborne Division during their 2007-2008 deployment to Iraq and Army Sgt. Eric McCoy, Delta Company, 404th Civil Affairs Battalion during his 2008-2009 deployment to Iraq. The program is managed through the township's Emergency Management Office and supported by Middletown VFW 2179. Call Cindy Herrschaft at 732-615-2287 for more information.

Cultural competency and addiction modalities

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft - Peter Bell was executive vice president for publishing and educational services from 2001 to 2002 at Hazelden, the internationally renowned nonprofit that provides a wide range of alcohol and drug-abuse services including treatment, prevention, research and publishing. Prior to that position, he was executive vice president for new ventures development.

From 1990 to 1994, Bell was a human services consultant in the field of alcohol/drug abuse. He was the keynote speaker at the White House Conference on a Drug-Free America in 1990. He was the co-founding and executive director of the Institute on Black Chemical Abuse from 1975 to 1990. In addition, he has written numerous books on chemical dependence.

Brookdale Community College (BCC) will host a free program, "Cultural Competency & Addiction Modalities," by chemical dependence expert Peter Bell.

The BCC Student Health Center and the Diversity Council cosponsor the program. It offers 6 Continuing Education Units from The Certification Board, Inc., New Jersey. Pre registration is necessary; call 732-224-2106 for more information and to register.

The free program will be held March 26 from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at the Lincroft main campus, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft in the Warner Student Life Center, Navesink rooms.

Legend of the green shamrocks “St. Patrick’s Day”

EDITORIAL By MURIEL J. SMITH — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Sure and begorra, even the Emerald Isle is being taunted by commercialism. The luck of the Irish and shamrocks are being confused with the lucky four-leaf clover. It's not so much a bad thing, as it is a confusing thing. And if a leprechaun found out about it, it could be downright unlucky!

See for yourself.

Pick up a couple of St. Patrick's Day cards or look closely at some posters promoting the Saint's day and count whether there are three or four leafs on the clover. Look at some of the curios in gift shops and count the clovers on the stem. Check out signs for St. Patrick's Day and see if the clover is three or four leafed. You'll find that there is considerable confusion between the shamrock, a three-leaf clover, and the unusual but not rare four-leaf clover, reputed to bring good luck.

The shamrock...not the four-leaf clover is connected with Ireland, with St. Patrick and with religious beliefs of several different denominations. Actually, the shamrock isn't even a clover, when it gets right down to it.

At one time called the "seamrog," which means little clover, the shamrock was the plant tradition says St. Patrick used to explain the Trinity...three persons in one God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While preaching throughout the country, legend has it that Patrick would stoop down to pick up a seamrog, display the stem and the three leafs, and explain that while they are all individual and separate, they are indeed one, just as the Trinity is.

But even before Patrick roamed the hills and dales of Erin, the Druids regarded the shamrock as a sacred plant. They believed the leaves formed a triad, or three, and three is a sacred and mystical number to the Druids. In Arabia, it's the shamrakh, in Iran, it is an emblem of Persian triads, and to all it is a sacred plant. Which might also be why Patrick chose to use it to convert the Celts to Christianity.

While shamrock translates to clover in English, there are numerous varieties of clover, the shamrock not being one. There are various opinions on what was the original shamrock plant that Patrick used, but most believe it was the Trifolium repens, forma minus, of the family Leguminosae. A white clover, a creeping white flowered perennial. The white clover was highly regarded by the Celts in Wales, who saw it as a charm against evil spirits. More proof that Patrick chose a pagan symbol to emphasize Christian beliefs.

Still, others hold to the belief that the original shamrock was Trifloium dubium, or hop clover, the Medicago lupulina, or black medick, or the Trifolium Pretense, or red clover. Others think the shamrock is actually Oxalis acetoselia, from the wood sorrel family, perhaps because of its ability to be easily cultivated and kept as a houseplant. Others think the wood sorrels are unlikely, since they come from South or Central America, in climates and geography considerably different from the shades of green connected to the Emerald Isle. Regardless of the specific plant, legend, tradition and history all point to St. Patrick's shamrock as the three leaf variety. No exceptions.

The four-leaf clover, on the other hand, has a different history, one distinct and different from the trinity of a shamrock, but possibly still tracing its roots to the Celts. The same Druids who looked at three as a mystical number appeared to have looked at the unusual four leaf clover as a lucky charm, something powerful enough to dispel evil spirits from all who carried it. It has been said that the leaves stand for faith, hope, love and luck, or, as the once popular song goes, for "sunshine, rain, roses, and somebody I adore." They're considered lucky because of their rarity. There's probably only one four leaf clover in every field of 10,000 trefoils.

While both a three leave clover, or shamrock, and the four-leaf clover can be considered lucky charms or talisman, at least for those Irish or want to be, and certainly around the 17th of March, it's only the shamrock that deserves prominence. Ask any leprechaun.

Two sounds collide for dynamic musical impact

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Red Bank (Monmouth County, NJ) - The calendar reads 2010 and the GPS has located Red Bank, N.J., but on Friday, May 21 it's going to feel a lot like 1970s London at the Count Basie Theatre... rocked by a new generation of musicians.

Picture young rock-n-rollers and classically trained youth orchestra musicians coming together in concert as one band, on one stage...Like the fusion genre of symphonic rock that revolutionized the progressive music scene, The Rockestra Project will be a classical arrangement of contemporary music.

The Rockestra Project is a collaborative effort produced by Rumson resident Joe Tort and the Count Basie Theatre. Under the creative direction of Rockit For Kids founder Bruce Gallipani, of Middletown.

Selecting 25 of Rockit's most talented and dedicated artists, all between the ages of 13 and 17. The New Jersey State Youth Orchestra will support Gallipani's students on stage with an arrangement specifically written for the event by conductor Roy Gussman. The performance will cover such legendary and challenging bands as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Yes, and Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) among others.

The first regional event of its kind, both Gallipani and Tort had been thinking independently of such a project and once the two recognized the unique opportunity to tap into some of New Jersey's most talented youth, the producers recognized the production as a means to help students reach their musical capabilities.

Tort remarked, "When in the presence of these fine young musicians, you can not help but feel the great potential of bringing two musical genres together for an evening of world class entertainment."

"Classical music is the basis for so much of what modern music is built upon," explained Gallipani. "To share the stage and witness how well rock and orchestra can come together and create its own magic is something that I believe a fan of any musical genus can appreciate."

The performance will feature Gussman conducting the stage comprised of 25 Rockit kids and 75 orchestra students who said working on the project is a unique opportunity for his students to do something out of the ordinary and that the rock community will be exposed to what more can be done with instrumentation outside of keyboards, drums and guitars.

Bringing a larger sound to the rock bands Gussman said, "The orchestra will be the paprika and bring a different color to the recognizable classics."

The Rockestra Project is sponsored by and made possible by support from Carlos and Paula Arrom, The Prudential Foundation, Joseph and Miriam Tort, David and Carolyn Smith, John and Janet Giunco, Jim Hickey, Michael and Deborah Stasi, Eileen Luby and Smith, Gatta, Gelok Insurance. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit scholarship funding for the Count Basie Cool School and the NJSYO organization.

The performance is at 8pm on May 21. Tickets are $25, $19.50, and $15 are currently on sale through the Count Basie Theatre Box Office at 732-842-9000 or by visiting the Count Basie Theatre website.

For more information about: The Rockestra Project.

New Jersey’s fiscal challenges

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Jersey - Governor Chris Christie yesterday participated in the first meeting of the Governor's Council of Economic Advisors. The meeting, held at Princeton University and open to the public, brought the Council members together to consult with experts and discuss the fiscal challenges facing New Jersey in the short and long term, while exploring options for reform.

Major issue areas discussed included Medicaid/Health Care Programs and state Pensions, two of New Jersey's largest areas of annual spending and outstanding obligations.

"It is my belief and my directive to the Council that we can identify a new way for New Jersey that restores fiscal responsibility and long-term solvency to our obligations," Governor Christie said. "The problems are large, complex and require sacrifice. But the problems are not insurmountable if everyone recognizes the urgent need for serious reform and joins in the effort to fix what is broken."

Established by Executive Order 5 on January 20, the Governor's Council of Economic Advisors provides advice on a broad range of economic matters, including state, local, regional and national economic conditions and analysis and advice on the fiscal condition of the state. The Council reports directly to the Governor.

Among the stark statistics that form the basis and need for reform and the Council's work: state debt went from $3.9 billion in 1989 to its present $33.9 billion; a top marginal tax rate in New Jersey that went from 3.5 percent in 1989 to 10.75 percent by 2009; Medicaid spending that was $8.7 billion in FY 2010 -- up 11.6 percent above FY 2009, when state revenues actually shrunk by 4.6 percent in the same year.

"Today's meeting is our first step in mapping the way forward for New Jersey," said Robert Grady, Chairman of the Council. "The Governor and the public can expect from us assessments and recommendations that, while not always popular, will be candid, analytically-based and necessary to get New Jersey on the path again to job growth and prosperity."

Among the presenters during the public portion of the meeting was Dr. Joel C. Cantor, director of the Center for State Health Policy at Rutgers University's Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy; Dr. James Verdier, a Senior Fellow at Mathmatica in Washington, D.C., whose work focuses on Medicaid, state health policy and Medicare; Susan Urahn, managing director of the Pew Center on States at The Pew Charitable Trusts, and Dr. David Crawford, adjunct Professor of Management at the Wharton School of Economics and President of Econsult Corp.

Incredible man raises consumer awareness "Behind the Swoosh"

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft (Monmouth County, NJ) - Jim Keady was a soccer coach with the NCAA Division 1 national champions, when he stood up against Nike and their sweatshops and lost his jobs for doing so according to Keady; he has since made ending sweatshop labor his life mission. In the summer of 2000 he lived with factory workers in an Indonesian slum, trying to survive on their wage rate of 23 cents per hour. Since that initial trip, Keady has returned to Indonesia on multiple occasions, to learn more about Nike's overseas operations.

Reportedly he has also taken part in grassroots campaigns and demonstrations on three continents that were focused on raising consumers' awareness about Nike's sweatshops. Come hear this incredible man's story about trying to impact change in the way multi-national corporations do business.

Come hear his incredible story on Thursday, March 4 2010 at Brookdale Community College.

Free Lecture: Jim Keady at Brookdale Warner Student Life Center, Navesink Rooms 11:45 am

Contact: Student Life and Activities 732-224-2500
Contact Email: studentlife@brookdalecc.edu

Brookdale Community College received national recognition

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft (Monmouth County, NJ) - Brookdale Community College has been named to the 2009 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement.

The Corporation for National and Community Service, which administers the annual Honor Roll award, recognized more than 700 colleges and universities for their impact on issues from poverty and homelessness to environmental justice. On campuses across the country, thousands of students joined their faculty to develop innovative programs and projects to meet local needs using the skills gained in their classrooms. Business students served as consultants to budget-strapped nonprofits and businesses, law students volunteered at legal clinics, and dozens of others organized anti-hunger campaigns.

"Congratulations to Brookdale Community College and its students for their dedication to service and commitment to improving their local communities," said Patrick Corvington, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. "Our nation's students are a critical part of the equation and vital to our efforts to tackle the most persistent challenges we face. They have achieved impacted results and demonstrated the value of putting knowledge into practice to help renew America through service."

The Honor Roll includes six colleges and universities that are recognized as Presidential Awardees, with an additional 115 named to the Distinction List and 621 schools named as Honor Roll members. Honorees are chosen based on a series of selection factors including the scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation in service activities, incentives for service, and the extent to which the school offers academic service-learning courses.

Brookdale's Acting President Margaret McMenamin credits the College's Career Services' staff for emphasizing the service component. "Led by Director Linda Mass, the staff is committed to encouraging our students to understand the value of good citizenship and the responsibilities contained therein. Our role in serving the community is not just a word in our college's name: it's a fundamental pillar in our mission as a comprehensive community college."

Brookdale Community College's Service-Learning combines academic study and community service, providing a unique opportunity for students to learn through active participation in organized service experiences in the community. Service-Learning puts education into action, leading out from the self into the world.

An average of 400 Brookdale students participates in the Service-Learning each year from courses such as Criminal Justice, Environmental Studies, Nursing, Sociology, Computer Science, Psychology, Political Science, and Women's Studies.. Students are providing over 13,000 hours of community service to hundreds of community agencies, in activities such as teacher's aides, tutoring at-risk-youth, serving food at soup kitchens, reading to the aged, mentoring middle school students, cleaning streams and lakes, testing local waterways for pollutants, supervising after-school programs, providing health care, and teaching English as a second language.

College students make a significant contribution to the volunteer sector; in 2009, 3.16 million students performed more than 300 million hours of service, according to the Volunteering in America study released by the Corporation. Each year, the Corporation invests more than $150 million in fostering a culture of service on college campuses through grants awarded by its programs; the education awards that AmeriCorps members receive at the conclusion of their term of service to pay for college; and through support of training, research, recognition, and other initiatives to spur college service.

The Corporation oversees the Honor Roll in collaboration with the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Campus Compact and the American Council on Education.

***

The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that engages more five million Americans in service through its Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America programs, and leads President Obama's national call to service initiative, United We Serve. For more information, visit nationalservice.gov.

Menendez seeks to end need for taxpayer bailouts of corporations

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Legislation would require "too big to fail" corporations to "pre-pay" into a fund for times of financial instability.

Washington - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) yesterday introduced Wall Street accountability legislation that would effectively end the need for future taxpayer bailouts of "too big to fail" corporations. The Ending Taxpayer Bailouts By Making Wall Street Pay Act would require huge corporations to pre-pay into a fund that, in cases of financial crisis, would help wind down failed corporations in order to minimize collateral damage to the economy.

"Families facing tough times don't expect huge corporations to save them, just as corporations should never again expect taxpayers to save them when they struggle," said Menendez. "Corporations should have to pay for their own insurance policy like families do. As we implement Wall Street accountability that aims to prevent future collapses, we also need a safety net that is paid for by corporations themselves. By ensuring that corporations pay up front for this security, we can eliminate the prospect of taxpayer bailouts in the future."

Background on bill:

Ending Taxpayer Bailouts By Making Wall Street Pay Act

Sponsored by Senator Robert Menendez

The Ending Taxpayer Bailouts by Making Wall Street Pay Act would require very large companies that pose risks to the whole economy to insure against the possibility of their failure. Risky firms would have to pay into a fund that would be available to wind down any risky firm that fails. Assessments would be based on the risk posed to the system. In the case of failure, shareholders would pay first; the fund would be used only to prevent spillover effects of a failure and wind down the firm, not to bail out a firm or keep it going.

The legislation would:

* Guarantee taxpayers will NOT be on the hook the next time a very large and risky company fails.

* Make firms pay to insure against their own demise.

Keep size in check and discourage risky activity since bigger, riskier firms will pay the most in assessments.

* Guarantee money will be available for a wind-down, averting possible market panic.

“Love Letters” Writes from the Heart

By Dayna Cerafice — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Atlantic Highlands - At First Avenue Playhouse the room is filled, the lights go down, and there are only two people on the stage. Directed by Robert Kern, and starring Donne Petito and Eric Walby, the First Avenue Playhouse, Atlantic Highlands, brings you "Love Letters," the endearing story of two young friends who grow something more than just a friendship through the power of words.

When you are first introduced to Melissa Gardener and Andrew (Andy) Makepeace Ladd III, they are just children from two wealthy families. Through the letters that they have written to one another over the course of 50 years, you learn more about each of them, and the relationship they have built, both within their letters and outside of them. For whatever outside sources kept them apart from one another, whether it was their same-sex summer day camps, or the universities they chose to attend later on in life, they were always connected through mail.

Adult life brought on different challenges: for Andy it was the war, for Melissa it was marriage and two daughters. Even though they were both living very different lives, and may have lost touch for some time here and there, they never lost each other. Melissa divorced; Andy returned from war and married someone else. Andy had three sons and earned himself the position of U.S Senator; Melissa picked up an old habit of heavy drinking, but not before the two found themselves in the midst of a love affair. While it seemed like the two were never meant to be, each letter brought them closer together while their lives brought them apart.

Both Petito and Walby showed the true emotions of two people who truly felt love for one another but were marked by the curse of "the wrong place at the wrong time." Each letter read aloud was read with such emotion, it was hard not to lose yourself in their voices, hanging on their every word. Each happy event, you found yourself smiling; sad events, you found yourself crying. It was the story of true, young love that only flourished over time.

To see this love for yourself, visit First Avenue Playhouse. The show is playing through Saturday, February 27th; curtain call at 8:30 p.m. For more information visit firstavenueplayhouse.com, or call 732-291-7552.

Eric Walby and Donne Petito in A.R. Gurney's "Love Letters." The show runs from Feb. 5 to 27 every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening at First Avenue Playhouse, 123 First Ave., Atlantic Highlands, at 8:30 p.m. with Sunday matinee on January 17 at 2:30 p.m

"Bipartisan Summit" What are Republican ideas to lower costs and expand access?

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Obama claims he'll take GOP ideas if they're better than his. "The Republicans say that they've got a better way of doing it. ... If you show me that you can do the things we just talked about... and you can do it cheaper than me, then why wouldn't I do that? I'll just grab your idea and say, great, and take all the credit. I'd be happy to do it."

(President Barack Obama, Remarks by The President At Town Hall Meeting, Henderson, NV, 2/19/10)

Republican health care reform bills, will it lower costs?

CBO confirms house republican alternative would have lowered premiums for Americans by up to 10 percent. "CBO estimates that the combination of provisions included in the amendment would reduce average private health insurance premiums per enrollee in the United States relative to what they would be under current law. The average reductions would be larger in the markets for small group and individually purchased policies, which are the focus of many of the legislation's provisions. In the small group market, which represents about 15 percent of total private premiums, the amendment would lower average insurance premiums in 2016 by an estimated 7 percent to 10 percent compared with amounts under current law." (Douglas W. Elmendorf, Congressional Budget Office, Letter To Honorable John A. Boehner, 11/4/09) 

Legislation from Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) creates tax credits to help pay for coverage. "(The Patients' Choice Act) would shift health care tax benefits to individuals and families in the form of a 'Medi-Choice' tax rebate worth about $2,200 for individuals and $5,700 for families. Under our plan, if you like the health care you have, you can keep it - but you'll have more money in your pocket because you will still receive a tax rebate." (Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK), Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA), "An Alternative To Obamacare," Real Clear Politics, 5/20/09) 

CBO says GOP tort reform bill could save $54 billion over 10 years. "Congressional budget analysts said Friday that lawmakers could save as much as $54 billion over the next decade by imposing an array of new limits on medical malpractice lawsuits - 10 times more than previously estimated." (Lori Montgomery, "Tort Reform Could Save $54 Billion, CBO Says," The Washington Post, 10/10/09)

And Republican ideas will increase access... House Republicans sent letter to Obama pushing for expansion of health savings accounts. "House Republicans sent a letter to President Barack Obama today (to)... tout various members' proposals that would: Give small businesses a tax deduction equal to 20% of their income; Let small businesses band together in associations to buy health insurance more cheaply; Curb civil lawsuits; Lower individual income tax rates; Expand health savings accounts, which are being squeezed in some of the current health-care reform proposals; Increase businesses' ability to recover current losses by re-filing prior tax returns." (John D. McKinnon, "House Republicans Press Obama On Jobs Creation," The Wall Street Journal's "Washington Wire" Blog, 10/7/09) 

Legislation from Rep. John Shadegg (R-AZ) will make insurance more portable by allowing Americans to keep coverage when changing jobs. "The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act takes a radically different approach in contrast to what has been discussed by President Obama as well as Democrats in both chambers. It gives people choice and places American families back in control of their plans and their health care. This legislation will reduce the cost and improve the quality of health care while expanding access and portability." (Rep. Shadegg (R-AZ), "Republicans Introduce: The Improving Health Care For All Americans Act," Press Release, 7/14/09) 

And expand opportunities to join insurance pools. "The Improving Health Care for All Americans Act dramatically expands the insurance pools Americans can select to join by allowing churches, alumni associations, trade associations and other civic groups to set up new insurance pools and offer affordable health care packages to their members. Instead of having only one group policy to choose from, under this bill, every American will be able to choose from a number of 'group plans.' This will make health care more affordable and portable while not locking individuals into staying at a job simply to keep their health coverage." (Rep. John Shadegg (R-AZ), "Republicans Introduce: The Improving Health Care For All Americans Act," Press Release, 7/14/09)

GOP plan to expand state high-risk pools would guarantee access and affordable care for people with pre-existing conditions. "The House Republican bill would offer $15 billion to states to establish high-risk pools, for people who could not otherwise obtain coverage, and reinsurance programs, under which states act as a backstop to private insurers. Under a reinsurance program, a state pays a large share of the cost if claims - for an individual or a group - exceed some threshold.... Health policy experts say insurers can lower premiums if state reinsurance programs protect them against the risk of catastrophic costs." (Robert Pear & David Herszenhorn, "G.O.P. Counters With A Health Plan Of Its Own," The New York Times, 11/4/09)

 Without a big spending, Washington take-over

Republican proposals focus on bottom-up solutions where states drive reform, and allowing insurance to be bought and sold across state lines. "The Republicans rely more on the market and less on government. They would not require employers to provide insurance ... Republicans say they can make incremental progress without the economic costs they contend the Democratic plans pose to the nation. As one way to encourage competition and drive down costs, Republican members of Congress want to make it easier for insurance companies to sell their policies across state lines..." (Robert Pear & David M. Herszenhorn, "On Health Bill, G.O.P.'s Road Is a New Map," The New York Times, 2/9/10)

Chicago Tribune: "GOP proposals contain smart ideas... and ruling Democrats need to give them s full and fair hearing." "Over the summer and fall, Republicans in the House and Senate have introduced six - yes, six - health care reform proposals. ... The GOP proposals contain smart ideas to increase choice and competition in the health insurance market - a powerful Republican counterpoint to the Democrats' expensive plans.... These excellent ideas could expand coverage for the uninsured without cratering the federal budget or curbing the competition and innovation that drive the U.S. health care system. Republicans should keep pushing them - and ruling Democrats need to give them a full and fair hearing." (Editorial, "A GOP Health Plan," The Chicago Tribune, 10/28/09)

Exploring job opportunities in Monmouth County, NJ

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

NEWS UPDATE: The Brookdale Community College, Long Branch, Job Fair on Friday, February 26 has been rescheduled due to an imminent winter storm expected to hit our area on Thursday into Friday morning.

Long Branch - Brookdale announces a free job fair at Long Branch Higher Ed Center. Area employers seeking qualified hires will be accepting job applications on Friday, March 12 (Job Fair) to be held at Brookdale Community College's Long Branch Higher Education Center, 213 Broadway. The Job Fair is free for job seekers and is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Prior to the Job Fair, free Interview Skills & Resume Building workshops were held Friday, February 19 and Saturday, February 20.

The Job Fair will be held following the workshops, allowing participants time to update their resumes and further prepare for the event.

"This is a convenient opportunity to meet prospective employers and explore job opportunities while employers will have the opportunity to interview potential employees," said Ed Johnson, Director of Long Branch Higher Education Center.

Major area employers as well as local businesses will be attending the Job Fair. Upwards of 70 businesses are expected to participate. Among the early registrants are:

* Saker Shoprites, Inc.
* US Census Bureau
* McLoone's Restaurants
* NJ Department of Labor
* Lowes Home Improvement
* Monmouth County Personnel
* Monmouth University
* Broad Waverly Staffing
* Aflac
* VNA of Central Jersey
* Central Jersey Bank, N.A.
* Chase Bank
* Two River Community Bank
* The Arc of Monmouth
* Brookdale Community College (EOF)
* Brookdale Community College (Admissions)
* Interworld Highway, LLC
* Moceans Center for Independent Living
* US Army
* Alternatives, Inc.
* Northwestern Mutual
* Primerica
* Prepaid Legal Services
* Griswold Special Care
* On Point Beauty Salon
* Avon
* Alcoeur Gardens
* Department of Labor (One Stop Career Ctr)
* L-3 Communications C2S2
* Superior Court of NJ Monmouth Vicinage

For more information regarding business participation, the workshop schedules and to register for one or both, call the Long Branch Center at 732-229-8440, extension 2.

Proposed cuts impacting Middletown K-12 school district in Monmouth County

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Middletown (Monmouth County, NJ) - On Thursday, March 4, the Middletown Township School District will host a forum on the way Governor's proposed cuts to state aid will affect the school district. The forum will be held at the Middletown High School North Auditorium at 7:30 pm. The school is located at 63 Tindall Road in Middletown, off Route 35 North. Governor Chris Christie has been personally invited to the forum to learn how his proposals may directly result in nearly $6 million in cuts to the largest K-12 school district in Monmouth County. Middletown's elected officials are expected to take part in the forum panel. The public is invited and encouraged to learn how the Governor's proposals to balance the state budget will impact education in Middletown and throughout New Jersey.

According to the press release the Governor's recent actions to substitute school district surplus for state aid reduced funding for Middletown's 2010-2011 budget by $2.3 million, and reduced our State Aid by $2.8 million overall. District surplus results from efficiencies in budgeting and saved cost accumulated through the year. These savings are directly applied to reduce the amount taxpayers are asked to fund the school budget the next year. It is more appropriately labeled (taxpayer relief.) The Governor's actions will essentially increase Middletown property taxes to fund the state's budget deficit. This is not an equitable action and the Middletown School District and its taxpayers are being penalized for the district's frugality. Middletown has consistently remained efficient and fiscally prudent, as evidenced by the district maintaining a per pupil cost well below the state average.

Reportedly Middletown Business Administrator William Doering recently testified to the State Assembly Budget Committee, stating, "Our district and several others have worked hard to achieve savings and have aggressively managed our budgets to save as much money as possible."

According to the press release, additionally the Governor has discussed taking further actions, which could reduce the school district's budget revenue for next year, including cutting state aid up to 15% and reducing the amount the school district is allowed to raise in taxpayer revenue regardless of mandated expenses. The result could mean a total budget deficit for the Middletown School District of up to $6 million for next school year, if the district were to propose a tax increase comparable to the increases the community has supported in the past. The district would have no alternative but to make drastic cuts to programs and personnel while their citizens' taxes will still be increased next year.

RBR National Art Honor Society hosts “Art for Heart’s Sake” charity art auction

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Little Silver – On Friday, February 26th, 2010, the very talented arts students at Red Bank Regional (RBR) will auction off their artwork for a very worthy cause, Amanda's Easel, an organization that provides art therapy to families suffering from abuse. Amanda's Easel is a program operated by 180 Turning Lives Around, a Monmouth County non-profit organization. The event, entitled "Art for Heart's Sake" takes place in the RBR school cafeteria in Little Silver at 6:30 to 8:30 pm and is organized by the RBR National Art Honor Society (NAHS). Tickets are $1 for students and $2 for adults and can be purchased at the auction or beforehand by contacting RBR commercial art teacher and NAHS advisor Claudia O'Connor at 732-842-8000, ext. 468 or email at coconnor@rbrhs.org. Student artwork includes original paintings, drawings, photography and junk art jewelry. A professional auctioneer will conduct the business of the evening and refreshments will be provided.

This represents the fifth year the NAHS had organized the charity art auction. Last year's event was very successful and raised over $3,000 surpassing the goal and expectations of the society's members.

Claudia O'Connor comments on the NAHS charity auction, "This has been a very successful event for the past couple of years and we hope to do well again this year. The auction benefits everyone involve; from the students that create and organize the auction knowing they are doing in it to benefit someone other than themselves, to the people who acquire the work and ultimately those children and parents that benefit from the art therapy provided by "Amanda's Easel", it is just perfect!"

The National Art Honor Society was founded in 1978 for high schools students from grades 10-12. It recognizes and distinguishes students who display an aptitude and avid interest in the field of art, helps them to attain their artistic goals to the best of their abilities, and provides opportunities for its members to contribute to local community charity events.

180 Turning Lives Around is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence, family violence, abuse, and sexual assault in the community. To learn more about 180 Turning Lives Around, visit their website at 180nj.org.

“Diploma Mill” bill passes senate by a vote of 38-0

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - The bill requires that in order for a public school employee to receive tuition assistance for coursework or a completion of a degree that the college or university be fully accredited. This bill was created in response to school employees using on-line "diploma mill" programs to increase their salaries.

The 12th District Legislators are please to announce that S-826, known as the "Diploma Mill Bill" was passed Feb 22 in the State Senate according to the press release.

"The passage of this bill is essential," said Senator Jennifer Beck, "as it directly affects what New Jersey residents are paying for school employees' salaries. While there is no problem with compensating people for hard work and additional education that only benefits our students, it is simply wrong to reward people with taxpayer dollars when no reward was earned. It is gratifying to see the State Senate stand behind that ideal."

The full Assembly will vote on the bill sponsored by Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon and Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande during its voting session this Thursday. The Assembly previously voted and passed the bill during last session, but due to the constraints of the lame duck session, the Senate had not had a chance to vote on the bill before the end of the session.

"This bill has had significant support along the way," said Casagrande, "and I'm glad to see it moving forward so quickly at the start of this session. It is vital, especially during such economically dire times, that we get what we pay for. New Jersey students deserve the best, and it is up to us to provide that. This bill will mean that anyone working at a school using the title of Doctor has done the work and has the knowledge that entitles them to that title."

"Most of our school employees have the kind of integrity and work ethic that we want to see instilled in our children," said O'Scanlon, "This bill will serve as protection for the taxpayers from those few who are not as discerning in their judgments. The bill also stops diploma mills from taking advantage of those well-meaning individuals who sincerely believe they are getting a legitimate degree only to end up with what amounts to nothing more than a piece of paper."

St. Patrick's celebration and party fundraiser

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Highlands - The local fire department will host their first ever Post - St. Patrick's Day Parade Party Fundraiser at new Firehouse Station 17-1 on Saturday, March 20, immediately following the Highlands St. Patrick's Day parade.

The parade begins at 2:00 pm sharp and is sponsored by the Highlands Business Partnership. The firehouse is located at 17-1 Shore Drive.

Ex-Chief Rebecca Kane said "this is a great way for our residents and neighboring communities to meet each other. We have such a special town filled with so many wonderful people; I do hope that everyone comes out to enjoy the day."

The celebration will run from 3:00 through 9:00pm. The Fire Department will provide a full corned beef dinner as well as beer for a minimal fee. Should you feel the luck of the Irish you can win one of our "Pot of Gold" 50/50's that will go on throughout the day. "Round the House" and the Ocean County Emerald Society will provide music.

Two day lecture series setting minds in motion

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft - For two days, March 16 and 17, Brookdale Community College's Outreach, Business & Community Development will offer a lecture series to set minds in motion. Experience the pure joy of learning with no advance knowledge required, no tests and no grades. Lunch included. Participants of any age are welcome. Select morning and afternoon classes for both days. Come solo or, register with a friend.

The morning offerings for March 16 include "The American Dream: Myth and Reality" taught by history professor, Dr. Frank Wetta and will examine the 20th and 21st century dreams of success or, "Meteorology and Weather Forecasting" with James Poirier, meteorologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Poirier will discuss how weather is forecasted using the tools and technologies of the science.

March 16 afternoon selection offers "Poetry Today" with Brookdale English instructor Nancy Bryan. She will guide the class in exploring rhythm, music, image, narrative, mystery and wonder beneath the poem's surface, examining contemporary voices in poetry today. The alternate class is "Jerusalem: City of Joy and Sorrow" with history professor, Dr. Christopher Bellito. It will trace 3000 years of rises, falls and twists of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

March 17 morning classes include "Edgar Allen Poe: Mystery Man in Life and Death" with English and history instructor Dillies Pilevsky. It will trace Poe's influence on writers as diverse as Stephen King and Arthur Conan Doyle and take a closer look at Poe's childhood, the impact of losing his parents at the age of three and his early death at age 40. If a lighter topic is desired, "The Homogenization of America through Jewish Humor" will trace the roots and evolution of what is funny to Americans from Groucho Marx to Lenny Bruce to Jerry Seinfeld.

Afternoon selections include "Titanic: The Latest Chapters" by Charles Haas, president, Titanic International Society or, "Carmen: The Opera" by Bob Noone from the Metropolitan Opera Guild. The topics will focus on the continuing story of the Titanic including recent expeditions to the wreck, scientific discoveries and dangers the wreck now faces. Opera enthusiasts will enjoy learning about the most popular and quintessential of all operas with added discussion opportunity.

To register for the two-day program, call 732-224-2315, ask for code XHUMN 225PR and indicate morning and afternoon course choices. The fee for the two days of classes, including lunch, is $119.

Bahrs makes great chowder instead of lemonade

By MURIEL J. SMITH — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Highlands - It's a well-known fact that Jay Cosgrove knows every aspect of the restaurant business, having grown up in it as the fourth generation at Bahrs Restaurant. What might not be as well known is that Jay, as his ancestors before him, has a knack for making lemonade out of lemons. Actually, in his case, it's outstanding chowder out of New Jersey surf clams.

Bahrs is a landmark in this bayshore community, as well as the oldest continuously run family business in a borough that has much family run businesses. It began when John and Florence Bahrs, he the son of a tall ship captain of the 19th century, had a necktie manufacturing business in Newark. There was a theft of all of their silk, creating a serious setback to the business. So the enterprising couple traded their faltering tie-making business for a rowboat rental and beached houseboat on the Shrewsbury River. Trying to make lemonade from lemons.

The day after John and Florence signed the papers, hoping for a successful rowboat business to supplement the boarders in the houseboat, a storm took out the rowboats. Time to make more lemonade, the industrious couple and parents of three sons and a daughter decided.

It was 1917, and John had recipes from his seafaring captain, so he and Florence, who quickly learned the quality of clams coming out of the Shrewsbury River and Sandy Hook Bay, started cooking it up for the boarders who were staying in the houseboat, along with fresh fish and eels. (And hearty breakfasts.) Making lemonade.

The senior Bahrs passed management of what had become a popular seafaring restaurant to the next generation, and their son, John, better known as Bud, and his wife, Peg, continued to maintain the restaurant's reputation for fine seafood, great chowder, and tables overlooking the Shrewsbury River "ever at the bridge."

When Bud and Peg retired, their son-in-law, Ray Cosgrove was next to take the helm, bringing his son Jay right along with him at a young age to learn the business from every angle...busboy, waiter, dishwasher, clam shucker...whatever it took.

Now, a few decades later, Ray is still involved as Chairman of the Board, but Jay as CEO has added his own personal touch, inheriting that Bahrs' ability to make lemonade out of lemons.

Two years ago, when most locals and every kid who had every jumped off the Highlands Sea Bright Bridge learned of the state's plans to tear down the bridge built in 1932, there was great lamentation and gnashing of teeth. But Ray and Jay knew it was a fait accompli and no amount of complaining or protesting would change it. They were sad, and also knew that several years of construction and traffic diversion would impact their downtown business and not in a good way. So they did the Bahrs lemonade trick once again...making the best of a bad thing. Jay conjured up a Bridge-tini and simulated bridge rust by rubbing the glass rims with powdered Tang. On the deck at Moby's, the outdoor restaurant just below the bridge, there were games every day connected with the construction of the new bridge. Their website bahrs.com has a camera focused on the traffic at the bridge. And even last week, when the state was continuing the implosion of the old bridge, folks were gathered at Bahrs tables at lunch to see the event. (More lemonade.)

None of that is new to the Cosgroves. In 2004, knowing that customers came from all over to sample the famous clam chowder, Jay, armed with degrees in restaurant management and business from Bucknell, the same university where his parents had met, looked into canning the chowder, both New England and Manhattan varieties, and making them available in local stores. Former State Senator Joe Azzolina, a Highlands native and president of Food Circus Food Towns, also thought it was a good idea and put the canned local chowders in his markets. Jay set the displays in open rowboats, and the effect was appealing and attractive. Other stores joined the list, and Jay added sales on the Bahrs Restaurant website. Today, there are four varieties of Bahrs famous soups available in cans on line and in major supermarket chains including the A&P, Pathmark, and Foodtown. Two kinds of chowder, Lobster Bisque and Oyster Stew from Bahrs have been shipped to all 50 states.

"It's those Jersey surf clams," Jay smiles broadly, "we even had a caller from Maine...and they're proud of their quahogs up there as well...call to say it was the best chowder she had ever eaten."

Will you have flood insurance in time?

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Fort Monmouth, NJ - Flooding is a fact of life for many New Jersey residents. Each spring and after an intense storm, floodwaters may threaten homes and businesses. Flooding can cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damage.

A flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers New Jersey residents their best protection against loss. In most cases, it takes 30 days for a new NFIP policy to go into effect. Will you have flood insurance in time?

"New Jerseyans without flood insurance are at risk of losing everything," said Stephen DeBlasio, Sr. federal coordinating officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. "Federal disaster assistance is limited, and often in the form of a loan which must be repaid with interest."

Flood damage is not covered under standard homeowner insurance policies, and there is no guarantee that federal disaster assistance will be available when a flood occurs.

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, business owners, and renters. Policies offer building coverage up to $250,000 coverage for homeowners and renters, up to $100,000 for personal property and up to $500,000 each for business contents and buildings.

New Jersey residents who already have flood insurance policies are encouraged to check their policy each year, update as necessary, and make sure premiums remain paid in full.

For more information, contact your insurance agent or to find an insurance agent near you who sells flood insurance, visit floodsmart.gov, or call the NFIP's toll-free number 1-888-FLOOD29. The hearing- or speech-impaired should call TTY 1-800-427-5593.

“Passion and Fashion” A night with Nick Verreos

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft - Come join Brookdale's Fashion Society on Wednesday March 3 at 7 pm in the Warner Student Life Center for "A Night with Project Runway's Nick Verreos." Sponsored by Brookdale Community College's Fashion Society and co-funded by ASBCC funds through the Student Life Board, the national and international fashion expert is sure to provide useful information on how to dress for success.

In 2001 Verreos and his business partner David Paul began their own clothing line, Nikolaki. Since starting his clothing line, Verreos was a contestant on the second season of Bravo's "Project Runway." Although eliminated in the tenth episode, that hasn't stopped his career from taking off.

Nick Verreos has appeared on E! Entertainment, TV Guide Network and SoapNet as a red carpet expert. He has appeared in such shows as WB's Crowned and MTVs The Hills and he is also a "Glam Squad Stylist" on MSN.com's Style Studio. Alongside his television career, his clothing line has been seen on A List celebrities such as Heidi Klum, Eva Longoria and Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba. His collection is carried in over one hundred stores and can be found in such stores as Nordstrom, Henri Bendel and Fred Segal.

The event will be held in the Navesink rooms I, II & III. Students are free with a valid Brookdale ID. Other admission tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at the door the night of the event. For more information contact Lauren Brutsman, 732-224-2392 or lbrutsman@brookdalecc.edu.

TV wrestling stars join St. Joseph’s fundraiser

Bayshore Courier News — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Keyport (Monmouth County, NJ) - Big time pro wrestling, courtesy of the Northeast's busiest promotion National Wrestling Superstars, comes to Keyport, NJ, St. Joseph's Church Gym (376 Maple Place), off Route 35, minutes from the Parkway this coming Saturday night February 27th at 7:35pm for an all-star show to benefit the St. Joseph's Baseball League of Keyport.

And since St. Joe's is opening its doors to NWS, they will return the favor... literally... as former WWE RAW TV star Gene "It's not my fault" Snitsky will come to the ring and challenge anyone from the NWS locker room that night to a "Loser Gets Put Through A Door Match". A door, you ask? Well, it's quite simple... Snitsky brings an actual wooden door to the ring, and the goal is to smash your opponent through it.

But Snitsky is not the only TV legend on the bill. Former WWE Intercontinental and Tag-Team champion and hall-of-fame legend "El Matador" Tito Santana will be in action, along with another former WWE and WCW TV favorite in "America's Hero" The Patriot, and The World Famous Wrestling Clown.

And a sight you certainly won't want to miss is one of the most destructive tag-teams on the circuit today... the 800-plus pound pair of behemoths known as The Nigerian Nightmares. They are undefeated in NWS after nearly a year, and are looking to dominate another pair of victims this Saturday in Keyport.

Plus there will be plenty of regional and local pro mat stars on hand, including NWS Cruiserweight Champion Jumping Joey Janella and NWS Junior Heavyweight Champion "The Love Machine" Nicky Oceans, plus Team Commando (former WWE developmental protege "Too Cocky" Kevin Matthews & "The Cold-Hearted Playa" Danny Demanto), the rugged Jon Justice, "Mr. Entertainment" J.D. Smoothie, "The Outlaw" Shane O'Brien, "The Legend Killer" Helter Skelter, and more, plus the Keyport Baseball League coaches who will be guest managers that evening.

Tickets are only $20 for ringside seats and $18 for the balcony, and are available locally at:

Aberdeen - The Hobby Shop, 1077C Rt. 34 (in the Aberdeen Town Square Shopping Center.)

Holmdel/Hazlet - P & P Lunch, Middle Road & Laurel Avenue.

Keyport - Trading Hut Army & Navy Store, Route 36 & Atlantic Street.

Richie's Hot Dog Stand, St. Joseph's Baseball Field, Corner of Broadway, Lloyd Road, Girard Avenue & Clark Street.

Union Beach - Keller's Deli, 610 Florence Avenue.

Keansburg - Keansburg Pharmacy, 199 Main Street (next to Dunkin Donuts.)

Middletown - Natural Man Hair Cutters, 104 Leonardoville Road (Campbell's Junction.)

For more information or to charge tickets by phone, call the NWS box office at (732) 888-1704. All major charge cards are accepted, and group rates are available for groups of ten or more. Remaining seats, if any, will go on sale at the door one hour before bell time.

Gov. Christie welcomes input by “Affordable Housing Task Force” for swift action

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Trenton, New Jersey - Governor Chris Christie yesterday released the following statement in response to Tuesday's passage of a resolution in support of Executive Order 12 by the Commission on Affordable Housing:

"I'm extremely pleased that the Commission on Affordable Housing has itself joined the call from across our state recognizing the need for sensible planning reform. I welcome the Commission's input and cooperation as the Task Force conducts its review and provides recommendations for my Administration to swiftly and responsibly take action."

The Commission's resolution to endorse Executive Order 12 passed by a vote of 5-2 on Tuesday.

Additionally, Governor Christie announced the appointment of the four remaining members of the Housing Opportunity Task Force created in Executive Order 12.Rutgers University Professor James Hughes, Perth Amboy Mayor Wilda Diaz, Morris Plains Mayor Frank Druetzler, and former Executive Director of the Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency Ira Oskowsky will serve with former senator and Task Force Chairman Marcia Karrow as the five member panel.

Issued on February 9, 2010, Executive Order 12 provides for the creation of the Housing Opportunity Task Force to review the Commission on Affordable Housing and its continued existence.

Middletown Police seeking volunteers for Domestic Violence Response Team

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - The Middletown Police Department is seeking volunteers for the Middletown Township Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT). The Middletown Township Police Department, in conjunction with 180 Turning Lives Around, maintains a team of specially-trained volunteer advocates available to meet confidentially with domestic violence victims at police headquarters 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Volunteer advocates are civilians who work with police to provide support, information, and referrals to domestic violence victims.

DVRT advocates, who identities are kept anonymous, are trained to empower victims to make decisions about their own lives during a mandatory, intensive 40-hour training course. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have access to transportation, possess a valid driver's license, willing to serve on an on-call shift basis, and submit to background investigations and fingerprinting. 180-Turning Lives Around will provide a 4-week training course to successful applicants in spring 2010 in the northern Monmouth County area. Classes will be held Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings. Prior knowledge of domestic violence is not required. The Middletown Township Police Department and 180-Turning Lives Around are committed to culturally diverse teams to better serve the community. Bi-lingual capability is a plus. Call MTPD Sgt. John Kaiser, (732) 615-2041 for an application.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you can stop by Middletown Police Headquarters, 1 Kings Highway and Hwy 35, at anytime, and ask to speak to a domestic violence victim advocate. In an emergency, dial 911.

For over thirty-years, 180 Turning Lives Around, a private non-profit organization, has been dedicated to providing shelter, counseling, protection, support, prevention, education, and advocacy for residents of Monmouth County who are affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you can call the 180-Turning Lives Around Confidential Domestic Violence Hotline at 732 264-4111 or 1-888-843-9262, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. For more information about 180 Turning Lives Around, visit 180nj.org.

"What they are saying" Gov. Christie making strong decisions requiring immediate action

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Jersey - Media outlets, business leaders and elected officials agreeing Governor Christie is making the tough, necessary choices.

Media Outlets:

Wall Street Journal, "Without economic growth, New Jersey will wither. Mr. Christie knows that. He is smart to enact this freeze using his executive authority..."

Escape from Taxation: Announcing the freeze on $1.6 billion of unspent money, Mr. Christie was blunt: "Today, we come to terms with the fact that we cannot spend money on everything we want. Today, the days of Alice in Wonderland budgeting in Trenton end." Not a day too soon, judging from the striking data that a just-released study reveals about the number of residents of the Garden State fleeing to greener pastures...Without economic growth, New Jersey will wither. Mr. Christie knows that. He is smart to enact this freeze using his executive authority while he has the public's support to act. And before the pols in Trenton push the state back in the direction of Greece.

The Courier-Post, "Christie is right to act fast less than four weeks into his term"

Gov. Needed to Make Cuts: Christie doesn't have much wiggle room here. The $2.2 billion deficit is real. It's the product of the continuing recession. Companies that go bust don't pay business taxes. Workers who lose their jobs pay as much income tax. Consumers who lack money don't shop often – so state sales tax revenue is way down. Those who will criticize Christie for his proposed cuts would say that Trenton should borrow some money or raise taxes of fees to not inflict such painful measures. But Christie is right - that's what the state has done for years and it simply cannot afford to do anymore. Borrowing is not an option. Likewise, raising taxes should not be an option...Christie is right to act fast less than four weeks into his term. He's sending a message that he's not going to put off dealing with the state's fiscal problems. And it's smart to get the current budget balanced before the debate over next year's budget begins.

MyCentralJersey.com, "It's Christie's turn now, and so far his actions suggest that his tough-talking campaign vows weren't just bluster"

Christie's Budget Cuts Show He Means Business: Honestly, why should Christie have bothered? This required immediate action to close a more than $2 billion deficit in the current year. And since the Legislature hasn't responsibly cut spending in a very long time, it wouldn't have been much help anyway. Let the governor and his people handle this one...Our Democratic leaders have failed the state over two gubernatorial terms. It's Christie's turn now, and so far his actions suggest that his tough-talking campaign vows weren't just bluster. Legislators need to follow, not fight for the lead.

Paul Mulshine, The Star-Ledger, "This is a great idea"

Why N.J. Doesn't Hold Referendum on Soaring Debt: So why should Christie contribute to the fund in his first budget? He's already said he's not going to do so. Instead Christie is offering the unions a deal that might finally give you an opportunity to vote on pension debt. He's told the unions that if they accept certain long-overdue reforms and reductions, he will push for a constitutional amendment to be put on the ballot. That amendment would require the state to make its annual contributions to the funds that provide pensions for state, county, municipal and school employees. This is a great idea. In fact if I were Christie I would not merely propose that referendum. I would insist on it.

Asbury Park Press, "This is the job voters elected him to do...Let him do it"

Time to take the medicine: Christie pledged to take the "principled path," contrasting himself with former Gov. Jon Corzine, who "pulled the rug out from underneath" the Legislature when it attempted reform. This is the job voters elected him to do, Christie said. Let him do it.

Press of Atlantic City, "Seems fair and reasonable to us"

Christie's budget fix / The pain begins: Seems fair and reasonable to us...But this was a good speech. One New Jersey residents needed to hear. And, more importantly, one the Legislature needed to hear. Financial disaster looms for New Jersey. There is simply no way to please everyone and hurt no one if the state is ever going to get its balance sheet in order.

Press of Atlantic City, "Seize the momentum provided by a new governor"

Pension reform / Now's the time: So just do it. Seize the momentum provided by a new governor and by unusual bipartisan support for pension reform - and get it done. Now. Before you lose your will. That's our advice for state lawmakers.

Carl Golden, NJ.com, "Christie fulfilled his campaign platform to grab hold of the entrenched Trenton mindset and shake it until fundamental"

Christie Takes a Gamble: By the sheer audacity of his action, Christie fulfilled his campaign platform to grab hold of the entrenched Trenton mindset and shake it until fundamental and far reaching systemic changes were accepted.

Business Leaders:

National Federation of Independent Business State Director Laurie Ehlbeck:

"New Jersey's struggling small business community has been waiting a long time for Trenton to get its fiscal house in order, and today's announcement is welcome news...Gov. Christie should be commended for coming out quickly with a bold plan to address the state's red ink. As the governor noted, many of the upcoming budget decisions will be uncomfortable, but they are a necessary evil for a state that has taxed and spent its way into the poor house."

New Jersey Business & Industry Association President Philip Kirschner:

Called the absence of tax increases "wonderful, and that is the beginning of breaking the cycle that the business community has called for." He agreed that improving the regulatory environment would do more for businesses than continuing InvestNJ.

New Jersey Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President Jim Leonard:

Said Christie is taking the bold steps called by the budget situation. "It was a necessarily sobering message to a state drunk on spending."

Government Relations Manager for the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey Christina Genovese:

Said Christie and the Legislature are moving toward pension reforms long recommended by her chamber.

New Jersey Association of Counties:

"While state law permits the Governor to undertake emergency measures to balance the budget, county and local governments remain bound by state mandates. The Governor has argued, once again, correctly, that the over-regulation of business is largely responsible for the state's economic and fiscal problems. County officials would point out that the over-regulation of county and local governments drives up the cost of living in New Jersey and diminishes its competitiveness."

New Jersey Taxpayers Association President Jerry Cantrell:

"Any reasonable thinking person had to expect the out of control spending would lead to this point eventually, and the besieged taxpayers have been anxiously awaiting it."

Blogosphere:

Shannon Bell, RightPundits.com, "Governor Christie is living up to a campaign promise to fix New Jersey's budget problem"

New Jersey: Spending Freeze, Budget Cuts Chris Christie Shows His Conservatism: Governor Christie is living up to a campaign promise to fix New Jersey's budget problem. Most with common sense would agree, the first step in fixing a budget shortfall is to stop spending. No matter what the argument against doing so is... When Chris Christie beat Jon Corzine in January's election, he ran on a platform promising "fiscal reform." I'd say that a complete and total spending freeze New Jersey style is the first step in the right direction to accomplish just that. If only other conservative Governor's and lawmakers would take such measures.

Mike Proto, Conservatives with Attitude!, "Many of the governor's proposal are good ones"

Thoughts on Christie's Budget Speech: Many of the governor's proposal are good ones. First, there was a spending freeze on various programs including "InvestNJ" and the "main street" program, to save some $550M. Christie also pointed to "over a billion dollars in reductions and reforms" via reductions to other programs like the NJ Transit subsidy...Next, Christie took on the critical issue of pension reform - a reform that is an absolute must in my view. In fact, one of the highlights of today's speech was when Governor Christie used the example of two government workers, explained how much they paid into the system and how much they received in benefits... Hard to argue against reforming the system when presented with these two compelling examples. Mr. Christie was very firm about reforming the pension system, urged the legislature to further strengthen their reform bills and promised he would sign such a bill if it reached his desk.

Matt Rooney, The Save Jersey Blog, "Someone with principles who sticks to their guns and challenges the status quo"

An Honest Man in an Unholy Place: Chris is simply coming through on everything he promised to tackle during the election (in record time, I might add). Someone with principles who sticks to their guns and challenges the status quo is always a rarity under the dome in Trenton.

Daily Muse, In The Lobby, "So it seems, to us anyway, that Christie is being consistent"

Now Comes the Hard Part: Can we all agree that the state of New Jersey is broke? That we're facing a $2.2 billion deficit this year, and up to $11 billion next year? And that now is the time for action, not just rhetoric. So it's important to know that even after the freeze, every school district will still have a 2% surplus. What Christie froze was the surplus over and above that 2%. So if the state is broke, what is wrong with asking school districts - who were able to build up those surpluses due in part to the state aid they've received - to use up that excess surplus money instead? Some Democratic lawmakers are saying that Christie should have used the state's $500 million surplus instead. To which we would note, $500 million is less than 2% of the state's budget. So it seems, to us anyway, that Christie is being consistent.

Elected Officials:

Senate Minority Leader Thomas Kean Jr.:

"It's been years since New Jersey has had a governor who will talk about our state's fiscal problems with decisiveness, honesty and courage," Senator Kean said. "After less than two months in office, the governor has come up with a plan to close a $2.3 billion budget gap without tax increases, furloughs or disruption of our state's schools. It's also worth noting that his plan for balancing the budget, unlike proposals by other governors over the last eight years, contains no unconstitutional borrowing, tax increases or irresponsible accounting gimmicks. No other governor over the last eight years has proposed such a responsible and fiscally sound plan for closing a deficit. These proposals are a great start to a fiscal plan that will make New Jersey more affordable for our working and middle class residents," Senator Kean said. "There should be no doubt now that the people of New Jersey have a leader who is committed to reducing taxes and reining in the ever-increasing cost of government."

Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce:

"The governor inherited a massive and unprecedented financial problem, but instead of raising taxes as Corzine did when he took office so he could increase state spending, the plan Christie outlined today is a dramatic break with the misguided policies of the past that only perpetuated our problems and made them worse with each passing year."

U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-Clinton):

"Continued runaway spending is inappropriate given the state of our economy both nationally and here in New Jersey. I support recessions of appropriations both on the state and federal levels aimed at addressing budget deficits," said Lance. "As a state legislator I opposed this type of budgeting and am pleased the Lance Amendment, which prohibits further state borrowing without voter approval, is now in effect...I look forward to working with Governor Christie as he begins the very difficult task of righting the fiscal ship of the state."

NJ GOP Chairman Jay Webber:

"Today, the Governor laid out what can best be described as a down payment on a future for New Jersey full of economic growth, optimism, and innovation," said Webber (R-Morris Plains), a two-term Assemblyman. "Governor Christie correctly diagnosed New Jersey's budget condition as being in a ‘state of fiscal emergency,' and put forth a plan to address it that is both creative and necessary. The Governor's solutions attack waste and inefficiency, identify and utilize savings, and cut spending. They deserve our full support."

Assm. Jon Bramnick:

"The governor prescribed tough, but necessary medicine to fix our current budget crisis. Everyone agrees the solutions are painful, but it is time to recognize the old ways of operating the state have failed."

Assm. Domenick DiCicco:

"The people of New Jersey didn't elect Gov. Christie to paint a pretty picture of the state's finances or to play shell games with the budget numbers. They elected him to truthfully sort out our fiscal quagmire and fix a state government that has become unresponsive to the needs of its people."

Assm. Joseph Malone III:

"There is no magic wand, secret bailout or silver bullet that is going to suddenly make New Jersey's problems disappear."

Assm. Alison Littell McHose:

"The Public Advocate's office drains precious tax dollars at a time when our state faces serious financial peril. There was no reason to bring it back and there is no reason why we should keep it when its duties can be performed by existing resources elsewhere in state government."

Assm. Declan O'Scanlon Jr.:

"I am encouraged to see him respond to the challenge with strong decisive action. The steps he outlined please no one, but lay the foundation toward correcting years of poor budget decisions, misplaced priorities and a faulty financial structure based on overspending and overtaxing our residents who cannot afford it any more."

Sen. Steve Oroho:

"We all recognize the fiscal crisis the State is in and Gov. Christie acknowledged that the solutions will involve pain as evidenced by his actions today. But it sets the right tone and is a start towards setting New Jersey on a path towards fiscal sanity and the prosperity that will ultimately follow."

Assm. David Rible:

"For too long too many have talked about our fiscal crisis, but were not willing to take much needed action. Fortunately, Gov. Christie has made it clear the status quo is no longer acceptable."

Assm. David Wolfe:

"Gov. Christie is setting a difficult but necessary course toward solvency. No one can cheer the individual outcomes of his plan, but it is an immediate response to a problem that has long been ignored."

They’re vocal about shopping local

STAFF REPORT — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Highlands (Monmouth County, NJ) - Locals "shopping local" and visitors will enjoy many discounts at retailers and restaurants all across our diverse borough, the Highlands Business Partnership has announced.

Ellie Carrano will be one of the first to attest to it. A Highlands resident, Ms Carrano was the lucky winner whose name was drawn from the January entry boxes of the Highlands Shop Local campaign earlier this month.

Each month, one lucky winner receives $100 HBP Biz Cash from the Highlands Business Partnership to be spent at participating "SHOP LOCAL" establishments. As soon as Ellie received the call, she made plans to use her biz cash for a visit to Transcendence Spa.

Don't miss your opportunity to be the next winner. The February
winner will be drawn on March 1,and then every month thereafter.

The Highlands "Shop Local" is an awareness campaign highlighting the uniqueness of our small town, HBP President Carla Cefalo-Braswell said, re-introducing Highlands to locals, and inviting visitors to experience a historic destination. "Year round,
participating retailers, restaurants, bars, and other service providers will display a "Highlands Shop Local" poster and offer you, the consumer, the opportunity to win a $100 shopping certificate, " the president said. "Pick up a Highlands "Shop Local" card at any business displaying the Shop Local poster and after five stamps, drop your card to be eligible to win a monthly drawing for a $100 certificate. The drawing will be held the 1st of each month for the previous months entries," she said.

"You could say I'm very vocal about shopping local! I urge all residents see what Highlands has to offer. Our unique shops and restaurant owners are friendly and always make you feel welcome.

"It's a proven fact that dollars spent locally, stay in the community," said Mayor Anna Little, "What better way to benefit the borough? After all, local shopping initiatives are among the most effective ways to promote and sustain our local economy. Downtown Highlands has unique shops ranging from boutiques and local favorites, to Zagat rated restaurants."

According Jay Cosgrove, vice president of the Partnership, a non-profit organization, and owner of Bahrs Restaurant, the longest standing family business in Highlands, "supporting local shops says that you care about the unique charm that small and family businesses represent. A thriving business creates more jobs and contributes tax revenue, all of which proves that local businesses fuel the economy."

"Every time someone shops locally, it helps the neighborhood flourish," said Nancy Burton, local resident and an HBP Board member. "We need the locals to help our business community grow". Nancy is owner of In the Garden Flowers and Plants, a local retailer.

"We urge resident and visitor alike to visit downtown Highlands and pick up your "Shop Local" card today," Ms Braswell said.

For more information or a list of participating merchants, please visit highlandsnj.com or call 732-291-4713.

"Year of the Tiger" Chinese New Year Event arrives after heavy snowfalls

EDITORIAL By CAROL ANN HAFNER — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Brookdale Bayshore Connection:

The much-anticipated Chinese New Year celebrating the Year of the Tiger scheduled for February 11 was cancelled since Brookdale Community College was still digging out from two days of snowfall. But when we reopened on Friday, the 12th, there was a last minute reschedule of the event for that day since the younger students were off from local public schools only that week. Unfortunately, there was not enough time to get the word out other than to the campus community. One of our Brookdale students working in our College Relations department, Shauna Channer, attended the event with me and, as part of her experience here, took photos we'd like to share with readers.

The Jersey Shore Chinese School meets on Saturdays during the school year and the kids attend classes to learn the Chinese language and Chinese culture. Showcasing their work via performances celebrating 2010, the Year of the Tiger provided the opportunity to share many cultural traditions. And for those born in recent Tiger birth years including 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, and 2010, it was a joyous beginning. Thank you to the Brookdale Asia Society and Brookdale Student Life in sponsoring the event. Enjoy the photos and be inspired to learn more about Chinese traditions. (Click on photo for multiple images.)

If you are then interested in learning Chinese, Brookdale offers the language - as well as American Sign Language (ASL), Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Russian. And, the International Center is offering several short-term study programs during the summer, including an intriguing July 1 - 10 program that will take travelers through Mexico's Avenue of the Dead, climbing the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and exploring ancient and modern Mexican civilization. Want to learn more? Visit the International Center's web site link from the Brookdale home page, brookdalecc.edu.

Happy New Year!

Daily life in largest German Nazi concentration camp

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft, NJ - ("Etty" Highlights Women's History Month.) It was 1941 when Esther, "Etty" Hillesum, a 29-year-old Dutch Jew, was uprooted from her home in the Netherlands and transported to a Nazi concentration camp. Etty documented daily life in Auschwitz through diary entries. She wrote until she was sent to the gas chamber. Forty years later, in 1981, her diaries were discovered and translated into several languages around the world.

On Tuesday, March 9, the Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Education Center brings to Brookdale Community College "Etty," the one woman stage show depicting the life of Esther "Etty" Hillesum. The presentation shares her struggle to find the good in life and humanity while living through one of the harshest times throughout history.

Adapted and performed by Susan Stein and directed by Austin Pendleton, Etty's story shows how far hope can bring one person. Etty did not allow herself to feel the victim and through Stein's portrayal, the audience can see how strong a woman Etty was.

The presentation will be held at the Warner Student Life Center, Navesink I room at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5.00; for HGHREC Members and BCC students, admission is free. Payment may be made in advance to HGHREC. No credit cards will be accepted. For more information on Brookdales presentation of "Etty," please call 732-224-1889 or email nsherman@brookdalecc.edu.

For more information on March Woman's History events at Brookdale Community College, visit the homepage brookdalecc.edu and click on the Events Calendar.

World War II battle scene diorama

Letter to the Editor — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft - Brookdale Community College's Center for World War II Studies & Conflict Resolution will host a 65th Anniversary Commemoration on Saturday, February 27. I will be providing a very special battle scene diorama to accompany Gilmon Brooks' recollections of his Marine landing on Iwo Jima. Gil served when the Marines were a segregated branch of the service and he was one of the few African Americans at Iwo Jima.

Tom Mahoney will be coordinating a destroyer display of naval battles off of Okinawa. His display will be in recognition of the vets and a representation of their stories that they will share about the beachfront landing. Tom is a Pearl Harbor Survivor and will also show the U.S.S. Arizona relic that we have on display at the WWII Center.

The displays will include Navy ships, landing craft, PT boats, aircraft and battleship carriers. There will also be period photos from Okinawa, many collector reference publications to thumb through - a fascinating collection.

Come early to see the displays around 11:00 a.m. would be ideal, before the 1:00 p.m. presentation begins. Bring your cameras. This is an ideal opportunity for kids to see history come alive and hear from the vets who were there. I hope we pack the room with local families and vets at this free event. If you know of a group that would enjoy the event and might also need special accommodations, please let us know at the Center so we can best assist. The Center's number is 732-224-2086.

Sincerely,

Brian Boyce
Matawan

Gov. Christie forms housing opportunity task force to restructure affordable housing

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Trenton (New Jersey) - Tuesday, Governor Chris Christie signed Executive Order 12 creating the Housing Opportunity Task Force, which will initiate an immediate review of the Commission on Affordable Housing and its continued existence.

The mission of the group will be to examine the regulations and methodologies of COAH, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the State Planning Act in meeting the constitutional obligations of the (Mt. Laurel) court decisions in a manner that is consistent with sound planning and economic growth for the state.

"COAH's conflicting messages and edicts to municipalities and builders have made it a planning nightmare and a source of endless litigation," said Governor Christie. "This Task Force will help formulate a sensible planning system that considers economic growth and development, the character of our communities and our commitment to affordable housing opportunities for our residents."

The Task Force will be chaired by former Senator Marcia Karrow and will be comprised of five members. The task force will serve without compensation, and will be dissolved after issuing its final report in 90 days.

During that time, COAH is to refrain from taking any further action to process applications for substantive certification or to take any other actions to implement the Third Round regulations.

Previously, the New Jersey Supreme Court in (Mt. Laurel) I and II identified a constitutional obligation on the part of municipalities to provide, by their land use regulations, the provision of affordable housing in a manner that is both fair and reasonable. Delays, inefficiencies, skyrocketing costs and continued litigation have rendered COAH impractical and ineffective.

The Task Force will work to:

* Identify the best means for determining whether a municipality should have any further affordable housing obligation.

* examine the regions that have been used by COAH for more than 20 years and whether they are still appropriate.

* Review the means of incorporating workforce housing into the concept of affordable housing.

* evaluate the diverse State projections for housing and employment growth to determine the obligation for a variety and choice of housing.

* Determine mechanisms that could or should be used to support the rehabilitation of deteriorating housing in the urban centers.

* Find economies, efficiencies and savings to meet affordable housing needs.

* Determine the appropriateness of methodologies that continue to include prior round need.

Teacher every student dreams of is welcomed as Principal

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Middletown (Monmouth County, NJ) - Ten years ago, if someone told Dr. Anthony Shallop that in the future he would become the principal of a major New Jersey high school, he would have been shocked. Then he was comfortably ensconced in academia where he researched the complexities of DNA nucleotides and published nearly 20 research articles at Rutgers University.

However, throughout his graduate, doctorial and research work, he discovered a great affinity and natural talent for one aspect of his university responsibilities, teaching. In 2003, he took a professional risk and left the collegiate world to become a science teacher at Middletown High School South (HSS). Soon after, he assumed leadership and administrative responsibilities. His first love, however, remains teaching and summoning all his creativity to connect with the students in the classroom. Dr. Shallop is known as the kind of teacher every student dreams of having and who inspired some to seek careers in science who may never have taken that path.

High school senior and top science student Bryan Pinamonti comments, "As a teacher, he taught the class to learn for themselves and to try hard on their own. He tried to make the class more of a discussion than a lecture. He helped us have the success we had. And he got a lot of kids interested in science. "

After several years serving as the HSS science department coordinator, curriculum writer, eighth grade orientation as well as Middle States coordinator, Dr. Anthony Shallop assumes the reins of Principal of Middletown High School South. He succeeds Interim Principal George Hart who held that post for one year.

Superintendent Karen Bilbao states, "It is a very exciting time for our high schools as the district prepares to implement many sweeping changes to align its curriculum and delivery with the priorities of the national High School Redesign initiatives. This mirrors what the district has already done in its elementary and middle schools in implementing a more authentic, student-centered and project- based program to engage our students. Dr. Shallop's talents and skills are tailor- made for this challenge."

Principal Shallop hopes to create more opportunities for students to learn and develop. As a science teacher, his students participated in many competitions and performed very well, often achieving top placement. He hopes to facilitate this high level of achievement throughout the curriculum.

He comments, "I have been working closely with George Hart over the past year and I know what we need to do going forward. We need to improve the delivery and rigor of the curriculum. We need to increase the engagement in the classroom by making this a more innovative place, and support our staff in the process."

Among the major changes that will help accomplish this include the district initiatives to create a freshmen academy. Students entering high school are initially better supported in smaller learning communities by sharing the same cadre of teachers who will conference together. The student schedule will also be reworked to maximize quality instructional time and project learning opportunities. Key to the improved curriculum delivery is staff training, which Dr. Shallop recognizes as a priority.

Dr. Shallop and his High School North counterpart, Dr. Patricia Cartier, have been preparing for the new initiatives for some time and, along with Interim HSS Principal George Hart, have been working as a team to plan and implement these changes. Both Dr. Cartier and Dr. Shallop attended a Harvard University Program over the summer on High School Redesign. In addition, Dr. Shallop visited several model schools in the Washington D.C. area and brought back some very interesting ideas to both high schools. One such initiative is the Professional Learning Communities (implemented this year) where high school teachers are given a 90 minute period every month for teacher training and conferencing time while students engage in valuable programs.

He states, "The schools I visited were among the top performing schools in the country, and I recognized that they didn't have anything more than we have. In fact, our facilities are superior. If we implemented similar, successful programs, there is no reason that we cannot also be a top, nationally rated high school."

Another idea Dr. Shallop brought to the district is an incentive program where a progressive raffle is held throughout the year for all students at both high schools to win a donated car. Monthly raffles create excitement by offering other prizes. The students obtain the raffle tickets from staff members by exhibiting all types of exemplary behavior. Using proven scientific design, naturally, the raffle is constructed to engage all students at every grade level up to the end of the year.

Dr. Shallop also supported the staff's request to reintroduce an old HSS tradition of students and staff participating in activities outside the classroom such as canoeing, hiking and skiing. Dates for four ski trips have already been set. He hopes this will develop a good rapport among the student body and staff and lead to mentoring opportunities.

This year, students at High School South have also seen some rule changes, giving them more responsibility and privileges. Student-friendly hallway pass rules have been enacted. Halloween costume privileges for the senior class were reinstated, and for the first time in many years, the student council is holding their own student elections. Regarding the latter, essays are required to ensure that students are serious candidates.

One of the most important things Dr. Shallop hopes to bring to High School South is something it has lacked for many years, continuity in leadership.

He states, "I am prepared to be here for the next ten years. I am lucky in that I believe I enjoy strong support from the students and staff. I would like to continue to create an environment where the staff is happy to come to work in the morning and students enjoy their school as well as excel academically."

Highlands “BID” divorces partnership and reorganizes

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - The Highlands Borough Council last year voted to not approve the Highlands BID 2010 budget, effectively ending the 10 year partnership with the Highlands business community. The outcome is that the non-profit business organization will no longer receive guaranteed funds that the Borough collected via an assessment on all commercial properties in Highlands according to the press release.

As a result reportedly the Highlands BID Board of directors has agreed to reorganize, amend our by-laws and continue to operate all planned calendar of events, marketing initiatives and other business development programs under the name Highlands Business Partnership (HBP), a 501c charitable organization. The HBP is widely recognized as a tourism partner in both the State and the County for our destination marketing programs. For funding the HBP will rely on membership fee (no longer collected by the borough tax assessor), event proceeds, charitable donations and grants. Successful past revenue generating events presented by HBP include, Oktoberfest, Bike NY, Seaport Craft Festival, Annual Clam Fest. In addition new revenue generating events to be planned include, "St. Patrick's Day Parade Dinner," "A taste of Highlands," "Annual Fishing Derby," and "Annual Fun Run." All set to celebrate the Grand Opening of the new $128 million Highlands/Sandy Hook Bridge in October.

As business leaders the HBP has decided to head in a new direction and is looking forward to a new era of cooperation with the public sector to advance shared goals with the community. For more information on the Highlands Business Partnership, visit: HighlandsNJ website or call 732-291-4713.

Distinguished veterans recollections of Iwo Jima and Okinawa

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft - Brookdale Community College's Center for World War II Studies and Conflict Resolution will present three featured February events; a special 65th Anniversary Commemoration "Last Battles in the Pacific - 1945," a lecture series presentation, and a Video & Vets feature film.

The 65th Anniversary Commemoration, a free community event, will be held Saturday, February 27 from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Warner Student Life Center. Gilmon Brooks will be a featured witness to history. Born into a military family, he was one of the few African American Marines in the formerly segregated branch of service. Brooks' recollections of the Marine landing on Iwo Jima can be heard at the Center's web site, linked from Brookdale's home page: brookdalecc.edu. It is one of thirty-five posted oral histories, each with accompanying video.

Joining Brooks will be veteran Paul J. Frisco who served in the Navy and experienced the Battle for Okinawa. Distinguished veterans will include Thomas F. Mahoney, Carl R. Osterlund and Jeannette Berkery.

The program will also include period music by Down Melody Lane and World War II recollections by history professor and WWII Center director Paul Zigo.

The Center for WWII Studies & Conflict Resolution's Spring Lecture series will open on Tuesday, February 16 with military historian, author and Brookdale professor, Dr. George Reklaitis speaking on "The Great Patriotic War: The Russo-German War 1941-1945." He will trace the German invasion of the Soviet Union from 1941 until 1948, comparing the perceptions of Russian vets and what really did happen on the "Eastern Front.' This event is code XWWTS 211. It is $12 for adults, $5 for students and Brookdale students free.

Kicking off the Spring 2010 Video & Vets screenings will be the February 23 showing of "Merrill's Marauders." A local vet will provide expert commentary. The screening will take place in the Warner Student Life Center from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm, Monmouth Battlefield room I. The event code is XWWTS 216 and tickets are $5 with Brookdale students free.

Registration is requested for each of the three events, including the free February 27, 65th Anniversary Commemoration, and can be made by calling 732-224-2315.

Prohibiting convicted public officials from continuing to profit

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Jersey - Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon introduced legislation Monday that would prohibit an elected or appointed official, who is convicted of a crime involving their office, from becoming a lobbyist in New Jersey for a period of 10 years. The legislation also provides for a $10,000 fine for those who would violate the new law.

"There have been a lot of public officials arrested in New Jersey over the past few years. Many of these demonstrably dishonest people have high level connections in government and their respective parties," said O'Scanlon, R-Monmouth and Mercer. "We must make sure they are removed from influencing government and getting paid for that influence, going forward. It's time the Legislature takes seriously its responsibility to enact stringent ethics reform legislation. This bill essentially prohibits convicted public officials from continuing to profit from their government connections.

"Currently, there is nothing in the law that prevents convicted government officials, once they are released from prison, from returning to government influence as high-priced lobbyists," he continued. "There will be waves of these people getting out of jail in the next few years. We need to enact this legislation now, preemptively, rather than wait until we start hearing what I believe to be the inevitable stories of these people getting back into the business of influencing government. It's time we started anticipating public outrage, rather than waiting to react to it."

O'Scanlon, noting the arrest last July of 44 public officials in an FBI sting, said the bill, A-2149, puts necessary "sharper teeth" into the system where its apparent existing consequences are not deterring public corruption.

"Not only will this bill block the road from prison to lucrative work on State Street, but its accompanying $10,000 fine will hit people where it hurts; their wallets," he said. "Its intent is to send a strong message from Trenton that this Legislature and the public has no tolerance for ethically-challenged officials who were either elected or appointed to serve the best interests of all the people."

First Bio-Science workshop at Fort Monmouth completed

Bayshore Courier News — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft (Monmouth County, NJ) February 3, 2010 - The First Bio-Science Workshop, developed to assist Fort Monmouth personnel who will not be relocating to Maryland when the fort closes, came to a successful completion with the awarding of "Life Sciences Career Transition" certificates from Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, NJ.

The students who participated in the first workshop were: Raymond C. Auen III; Beverly Baum Philback; Claire J. Coletti; Louise Teresa Cooper; Dinkerrai M. Desai, Manalapan; Kathleen Hastick; Michael Khalamayzer; Daniel T. Ku; Steve Louie; Dennis P. McInnes and Amber C. Sasso.

The Bio-Science Boot Camp was the result of funding received through the WIRED program's Bio-1 Initiative from the US Department of Labor Education and Training and was awarded to Brookdale Community College. The application was developed through a collaborative effort of Brookdale, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the Monmouth County Workforce Investment Board (WIB).

The workshop was designed to provide the students with an understanding of the drug development process, FDA history and organization and regulatory compliance. The program also included a look at current and future developments in the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical devices and pharmaceutical industries.

The curriculum for the program and the instructor for the workshop were developed by Patricia Koziol, Holmdel, who has extensive experience in the Biopharmaceutical and Pharmaceutical industries. Guest speakers included: Eugenia Pitts, Job Developer, Outreach, Business and Development, Brookdale Community College, who instructed the students on Resume Writing, Writing Effective Cover Letters and Interviewing Skills; Arlene Meyn, Career Development Transition Coordinator, CTSC LLC, Ft. Monmouth who instructed the students on Interviewing Techniques and Dr. Delores Wong, DJW Associates, Inc. Job who spoke on Clinical Research and Development.

According to Marie Lucier-Woodruff, Executive Director Outreach, Business and Community Development Brookdale Community College, "the goal of the program was to enable the students to identify positions within these industries where their government working experience and skills could be applied and we are pleased to report that during the course of the workshop one of the students did secure a position with a global pharmaceutical company."

In you are a Fort Monmouth employee and are interested in more information concerning the workshops, which will be offered in Winter/Spring of 2010; contact Carolyn Ellington at the Monmouth County One-Stop Career Center at (732) 683-8850 ext. 2411.

Insight into the past and present innovations developed down the street at Fort Monmouth

Bayshore Courier News — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Holmdel (Monmouth County, NJ) - New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation will host a slide show and discussion entitled "A Glimpse at Fort Monmouth's Support to Vietnam" led by Melissa Ziobro, Command Historian of the U.S. Army CECOM Life Cycle Management Command. This program will be held at the Vietnam Era Educational Center in Holmdel, NJ on Saturday, Feb 27 at 1:00 pm. Teachers attending will receive professional credit.

Melissa Ziobro is a published author and her awards include the Department of the Army Achievement Medal for Civilian Service. She has worked as a staff historian at Fort Monmouth since March 2004 and has been the Command Historian since July 2009. Ziobro received her MA in History from Monmouth University where she was the History and Anthropology Department's Outstanding Graduate Scholar in History.

Ziobro will speak on the importance of Fort Monmouth as the headquarters of the U.S. Army Electronics Command (ECOM). ECOM was a young organization when President Johnson increased war efforts in South Vietnam. The Command was able to provide the signal research, development, and logistics support needed for combat troops. ECOM supplied the U.S. forces with advanced technologies including portable surveillance radar which one commander described as being "worth 500 men." Fort Monmouth has a long history of technological developments ranging from its 1940s radar systems to the Firefinder radars that are used successfully today. With the ever-increasing need for war technologies today, this lecture will provide insight into the past and present innovations developed down the street at Fort Monmouth.

Lecture attendees are asked to RSVP to (732) 335-0033. A donation of $5.00 per person is suggested. The Vietnam Era Educational Center is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116. The Educational Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Regular admission is free for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Regular adult admission is $4.00; student and senior citizen admission is $2.00; and children under 10 are admitted free.
(732) 335-0033, Fax: (732) 335-1107; website: njvvmf.org.

Former SEAL still protecting his country

Courtesy of "THE COMPASS" bi-monthly publication of NWS Earle — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - You have to listen carefully to catch every word of this soft-spoken retired Navy Seal. But it's worth the effort, if only for the instant education you can pick up from a retired Master Chief who was an "Explosive Safety Officer in Naval Special Warfare Group One" his entire Navy career.

Meet John W. Horton, former Navy SEAL, former production supervisor and process improvement engineer in his private late after Navy, now Safety Manager and Explosive Safety Officer at NWS Earle.

As such, John oversees all the explosive movements by rail and road, the loading and unloading of ships at the pier, and overseeing all standards of safety with the assistance of five others in his department. He's quick to point out that each of the team has specialties, and all excel at their jobs. As Safety manager, he oversees every safety program on base, ranging from the regular motorcycle safety courses and quality air testing to insuring all Navy and OSHA compliances are met or exceeded.

He loves his position at Earle, one he accepted last November after having been Installation Training Officer here the year previous. But make no mistake about it; it was a tough choice ten years ago when he made the decision to retire from the Navy after 20 years as a SEAL.

"If it weren't for the family, I'd still be in the Navy," he says, with the same soft but powerful voice and conviction. He had a second chance at seeing at least some of his children growing up and the feeling to do so was too strong to resist.

He and his wife have five children, but for most of the growing up years for the first three, John was away on military duties. He didn't get to see Candice, his first-born, until she was three months old. And while you can hear in his voice the void that created, he proudly offers that Candice is now 22, a Temple University graduating and now pursuing her master's degree; son Shawn is 20 and in the Marine Corps, and Joshua, now 19, is studying at a community college in San Diego before heading to San Diego State.

So when Caleb, now 12, and Beth, ten, came along, the Navy Seal let his paternal instincts win out and loves the fact he's with his children every day, can watch them grow up, share in their accomplishments, and attend all the functions important to children. He's been there since Beth was a month old.

He's also mighty proud of his Brooklyn-born wife, who is rapidly becoming a Jersey Girl now that the family lives in Point Pleasant. Jean, he asserts, "has been the cornerstone of my success in the military and post-military career. She has always been there for me."

And just in case you don't believe it, he's ready to give examples. A week after Joshua was born, John was on a training exercise, John deployed six months later. When he was at SEAL Team One and broke his leg in a parachuting accident in California, Jean thought nothing of packing up the three little ones and driving cross-country in a weekend to be at his side. There are a dozen or more stories like that.

After retirement, armed with the business administration degree he had earned in service from Chapman University in Orange County, California, John was production supervisor and Black Belt at York International, a company in Waynesboro, Pa., and then a process improvement engineer at MACK engine assembly plant in Hagerstown MD.

NWS Earle is a special kind of place, he thinks, but in a way wishes it were back to the days when it was larger, more personnel were aboard, and more diverse. "I love this job," he says in that same quick talking mode, "it has enough military to be effective, enough civilians to work with them, and not enough to have a lot of bureaucracy. It's the best of all worlds." There's nothing he would change, he said, once again praising his staff. But again, if he could have his way, "we're a one mission show; I'd like us to have more assets."

There are few, if any, difficulties with the job, this very capable administrator asserts, which could partially be the result of his habit of "calling everybody together to sit at one table. That way, we hear all the issues and can work together."

Holmdel Township “Board of Education” announces candidacy information

Bayshore Courier News — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ – The Holmdel Township School District has announced it has information available for citizens interested in running for a vacant seat on the board of education.

The Holmdel Township Board of Education will have four (4) vacancies in the April 20 Annual School Election, Michael R. Petrizzo, CPA, School Business Administrator/Board Secretary announced today. A full term on the school board runs for three years. Three (3) positions will carry a three (3) year term and one (1) position will carry a one (1) year term.

Candidates must file a nominating petition with the local school board in order to get their name on the ballot for the Annual School Election. The current deadline to submit the nominating petition is 4 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2010. The election is scheduled for Tuesday, April 20, 2010. A change in the Annual School Election date and candidacy deadline has been proposed in the Legislature. The New Jersey School Boards Association will notify local school districts of such a change, if enacted.

Prospective school board candidates can obtain a "School Board Candidate Kit" online at (njsba) published by the New Jersey School Boards Association, the School Board Candidate Kit includes a nominating petition, information about legal qualifications for school board candidacy and the role of the school board member. Information about the New Jersey School Ethics Act and important dates in the school election process are also included in the kit.

"One of the most meaningful contributions that a citizen can make to their community is serving on their local board of education," said Harry J. Delgado, NJSBA president. "I encourage all interested citizens to consider school board membership. It doesn't require a degree in education, or a background in politics. However, it does require a sincere interest in the community, its children, and their education."

Food assistance need increased in Monmouth and Ocean Counties

Bayshore Courier News — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

At a press conference yesterday at the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties in Neptune, the findings of a nationwide study were announced.

12th District Legislators Senator Jennifer Beck, Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon and Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande applaud the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties for their participation in a nationwide study conducted by Feeding America that exposes the alarming and devastating reality being faced here in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

"In District 12," said Beck, who attended the press event, "we have certainly seen an increased need for assistance in many areas, especially concerning food. We're seeing populations that never required assistance before but who have either lost their jobs or are working but underemployed and simply not earning enough to feed their families. Reportedly according to the study, 53% of people receiving assistance from the FoodBank are working, but unable to sustain themselves and their families. These are distressing numbers and serve to reinforce the fact that New Jersey needs to make job creation a priority. We're last on every scale of business friendliness, and it's clear that we have that to thank for our high unemployment and underemployment. It's time to make some changes."

Over the past four years, the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties has seen the amount of food it is giving out double from 3.3 million in 2005 to 6.7 million in 2009 according to the press release. Over that same time period, the demographic has also changed significantly from being made up of mostly single men in 2005 to having a large number of families in need of its services last year.

The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties has a network of 251 food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, and they serve 127,500 residents of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Reportedly according to the study, 91% of pantries and 86% of soup kitchens indicated a devastating impact on their ability to provide food for families in need if the FoodBank was no longer able to supply it. In addition, as many as 92% of soup kitchens and 97% of pantries rely on the services of volunteers to keep their programs running, and the majority have no paid staff at all.

"Since the economy took a downward turn in 2008," said Casagrande, "we have seen so many people in need, but also so many people prove just how generous they can be. It's important to recognize that even as we begin to see improvements in the economy, unemployment in New Jersey is over 10%, higher than the national average, and your friends and neighbors are still in need of assistance. Food pantries are seeing extreme shortages. I encourage anyone who can afford to give, to do so, and those who cannot donate food or money, can donate their time."

"These days," said O'Scanlon, "everyone probably knows someone who has had to seek some assistance for the first time. Since 2005, the FoodBank has seen its demand increase of 84% in the population they serve, which is nearly double the increase at both the state (45%) and national (46%) levels. That's almost a total of 130,000 people in Monmouth and Ocean Counties who are now in need of the services provided by the FoodBank. We're in bad shape, and we have to do whatever we can to support agencies such as the FoodBank in their efforts."

If you are interested in donating to or volunteering at the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, please call 732-918-2600 or visit (FoodBankmoc.org.)

Celebrate “Year of the Tiger” Chinese New Year Event

Bayshore Courier News — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Lincroft (Monmouth County, NJ) - A free festival welcomes the "Year of the Tiger" at Brookdale Community College. Brookdale invites the community to join in celebrating the Chinese New Year on Thursday, February 11. The festival take's place in the Warner Student Life Center Navesink room II beginning at 11:45 am and continuing until 1:20 pm.

Forty elementary and high school students from the Jersey Shore Chinese School will participate in the traditional lion dance. The students are from Holmdel and nearby school districts and will demonstrate a synthesis of Chinese folk dances, perform the drum dance with drum ensemble and culminate in a 16-foot dragon parade with Chinese music. There will also be a demonstration of the Chinese yo-yo and Brookdale students participating in the events.

Why do animals represent Chinese birth years? The historical explanation is that in ancient China, most people were illiterate and could not memorize or calculate easily. The animals of the Chinese zodiac that influenced people's lives were an easier way to symbolize the 12 terrestrial branches of the calendar: the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

Legend has it the gods summoned the animals and the zodiac reflects the order the twelve fastest animals arrived. Each animal has particular traits and individuals born in specific years share these characteristics, much as the Western horoscope signs share traits. Those born in the tiger years were compared to emperors known for tolerance, valor, bravery and respect. The symbol of power and lordliness, they can also be cruel, forceful and terrifying. There are many legends about hunting tigers dealing with struggles against evil might. Those born in tiger years enjoy a bright prospect following middle age with women born under the tiger sign said to be especially intelligent, faithful and virtuous.

Recent tiger birth years include 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, and 2010.

The Brookdale Student Life and Brookdale Asia Society join the Jersey Shore Chinese School in sponsoring the event. Refreshments will be provided. Parking is available in lot 1 with the Gateway walk leading to the Student Life Center.

For more information, call Professor Linda Wang at 732-224-2861.

Gov. Christie prepares to mend NJ’s gaming, sports and entertainment industries

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Trenton (New Jersey) - Governor Chris Christie today announced the creation of the New Jersey Gaming, Sports and Entertainment Advisory Commission to devise a comprehensive policy to repair the unprecedented financial and structural challenges confronting New Jersey's gaming, professional sports and entertainment industries. Some of the recommended policy changes will be implemented on an ongoing, real-time basis as the need arises.

Governor Christie signed Executive Order No. 11 creating the seven-member Advisory Commission, to be headed by Jon F. Hanson, a former chairman of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) and real estate executive.

The recently released Transition Subcommittee reports on gaming, entertainment and authorities found Atlantic City casinos burdened by grossly uncompetitive regulatory expenses, a municipal government failing in its supporting role of the industry; a Meadowlands anchored by the behemoth, financially strapped Xanadu project; the Meadowlands and Monmouth racetracks losing $22 million in 2010; and a Sports Authority struggling to manage those problems, its arenas and sports franchise contracts.

"We can no longer let Atlantic City wither in the face of competition, have our arenas and stadiums go underutilized, or have a Sports Authority that is unable to maximize our entertainment investment and resources," said Governor Christie. "Previous efforts have been piecemeal, weak and failed to look at all the problems in a whole and comprehensive way. This will be a blueprint to guide our policy in fixing our sports and entertainment infrastructure in New Jersey, to make all its parts self-sustaining, attractive to wider audiences and revenue positive for the long term. But the Advisory Commission will also be working with my administration in real-time, to move quickly to solve critical contractual and other issues we confront in the short term."

The Advisory Commission will serve without compensation and will be dissolved no later than June 30, the deadline for submitting its final report and policy recommendations to the Governor, as well as the Legislature and public.

Also serving on the Advisory Commission will be Robert E. Mulcahy III, a former president of the NJSEA and Athletic Director at Rutgers University; Finn Wentworth, principal of Normandy Partners and Founder of the YES Network; Al Leiter, the former Major League Baseball pitcher and YES Network commentator; Wes Lang, managing director of WML Partners, LLC, a New Jersey private equity investment and development company; Debra P. DiLorenzo, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey; and Robert Holmes, a law professor at Rutgers School of Law in Newark, where he serves as Deputy Director of Clinical Programs and Director of the Community Law Clinic.

The Advisory Committee is charged with developing recommendations for the Governor for a comprehensive, statewide approach to the issues and financial needs of New Jersey's gaming, professional sports and entertainment industries. Chief considerations would be long-term stability of those industries, New Jersey's economic interests and a commitment to the responsible use of state resources to the benefit of its citizens.

Among the critical issues on which the Advisory Commission must focus:

* the ongoing financial viability of the NJSEA

* advancing or resolving the stalled Xanadu project

* improving competitiveness of the Atlantic City gaming industry and promoting the city as a destination resort

* ensuring that horse racing becomes financially self-sustaining

* proper scheduling of entertainment events at the IZOD and Prudential centers to ensure their mutual success

Today's Executive Order also amends an Executive Order of the prior administration, which created a horse racing commission to recommend funding solutions for that industry by July 1, 2010. Governor Christie's amendment requires that those recommendations, if they are forthcoming, be made available for to the Advisory Commission by April 1, when the Corzine commission would be dissolved and its work superseded.

Hopes of reviving Atlantic City’s slumping economy creates vital job recovery

Bayshore Courier News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Jersey - Assemblymen John Amodeo and Vince Polistina, commended today the Senate Economic Growth Committee for unanimously releasing legislation on Monday that would hasten financial backing of certain development projects that could boost the slumping economy.

Amodeo and Polistina, both R-Atlantic, sponsor the Assembly version, S-920/A-1897, which would clear the way for the $2.6 billion Revel casino project that many hope will revive Atlantic City's slumping economy.

"This project has already created jobs and will continue to do so while giving the state and Atlantic City a much-needed shot of new recurring revenue," Amodeo said. "This is a wise investment without any outlay of state funds that will be vital in the Atlantic City's recovery, which will be felt throughout the state."

The Revel project will add 1,900 hotel rooms 150,000 square feet of gaming, 35,500 square feet of entertainment space, 170,000 spare feet of convention space, 20 restaurants and 44,000 square feet of beach amenities.

It is slated to create 2,600 construction jobs and then 5,500 permanent jobs, plus another 2,500 jobs related to the new operation.

"We must bring Atlantic City out of dismal economic times and this will be a major step toward a brighter future for the city and our state," Polistina said. "It would be beyond a shame if we allow this project to fail and squander this opportunity to provide our state with more than $100 million in annual revenue and better opportunity for thousands of families who will benefit from these jobs."

Middletown Health Department schedules H1N1 vaccination clinic

Bayshore Courier News — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Monmouth County, NJ - The Middletown Township Health Department will hold an H1N1 vaccination clinic on Monday, February 8, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Croydon Hall, 900 Leonardville Rd, Leonardo. This clinic is open to the general public for those 6 months of age and older. Vaccinations are free of charge.

Individuals are encouraged to complete consent forms prior to arrival to expedite registration. Visit: Middletown NJ website for H1N1 downloadable consent forms. Please note there are separate forms for children and adults.

Individuals who may not receive the H1N1 or any other influenza vaccine are those with a serious allergy to eggs and egg proteins, anyone with a previous life threatening reaction to a flu vaccine and individuals with a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome. Additional information about the H1N1 flu is available at the Middletown NJ website. Call the Middletown Health Department at 732-615-2095 for more information.