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October 9-15, 2003
Vol. 5  No. 40

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NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

1. Elenor Huson Celebrates 100th Birthday at Party on Sunday

2.  Henry Hudson Regional School Plans Korean Veterans Recognition Ceremony on November 11th

3.  Annual Lighthouse Festival Illuminates NJ Coastal History

4.  Nancy Scharff to Perform at the First Presbyterian Church in Atlantic Highlands

5.  Atlantic Highlands Mayor Michael G. Harmon Endorsed Councilman Jack Archibald for Mayor

6.  AH Presbyterians Announce Guest Preachers to Lead Worship Service

7.  Talk by Randall Gabrielan on Dating Post Cards at Middletown Historical Society Meeting

8.  HHRS Celebrates Groundbreaking Addition & Renovations for Regional School District

9.  NJ Residents Organizing to Hit D.C. Streets Against Iraq Occupation

10.  NJ Coast Days Set for October 11 at Long Beach Island and October 12 in Cape May

11.  History and Archives Day Program Set for October 18th

12.  Jersey Shore Half Marathon Results Announced

13.  Sheriff’s Officer Recognized For Assisting Beach Rescue

14.  Brookdale to Host First NJ Community College Leadership Conference

15.  Acclaimed Chemical Dependency Expert to Speak at Brookdale

16.  Communiversity Information Sessions Announced at Brookdale - 8 Member Alliance of Schools

17.  Habitat for Humanity Information Meeting Set for October 21st

18.  Help Sweep the Beach Free of Marine Debris - October 25 - Statewide

19.  Township Committee Takes Steps To Protect Wooded Areas and Slopes

20.  New Savings Program Offers Middletown Residents Discounted Prices on Prescription Medications


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ANNUAL LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL ILLUMINATES NJ COASTAL HISTORY

photo ALLAN DEAN

New Jersey’s lighthouses are shining the spotlight on their special contributions to maritime heritage with the fourth annual Lighthouse Challenge Festival October 18 and 19.

Sponsored by the NJ Lighthouse Society, New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge 2003, gives visitors and lighthouse enthusiasts an opportunity to visit and tour 11 of New Jersey’s land-based lighthouses in one weekend. Visitors will receive a commemorative trading card with an antique photograph of each lighthouse at each location. Collectors’ cards of all 11 lighthouses are suitable for mounting and framing.  read more


HHRS TO HONOR VETERANS ON NOV. 11

photo ALLAN DEAN

Henry Hudson Regional School students will again participate in the Veterans Day Ceremony.

Henry Hudson Regional School is planning an assembly on November 11, 2003 at 9:30 A.M. to honor and recognize the men and women of our communities of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands who have served in the Armed Forces.

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COLUMNS

Pastors Corner
by Rev. Dr. George
Hancock-Stefan
Preach the Word!

Body Politic
by AH Councilman
Jack Archibald
Campaign Based on Performance

Windows on Red Bank
by Daniel Murphy, Jr.
Diabetes, Diet and Working Out

Trenton Talk
by NJ Assemblyman
Steve Corodemus
Don't Fall Prey to the Flu

JobPath
by Caroline Ceniza-Levine
Changing Your Space

Lend-a-Hand
from Volunteer Center of Monmouth
Volunteering opportunities

LeafNotes
by Charles Deitz

Book Reviews

Adoption Option
by Amy Shore
Eternal Spring

Ferry Rider
by Anne Smolenski Boiko
Among Our Fellow Riders

Poets' Lair
The Sewing Room
by Elizabeth Jordan Kittredge

READERS WRITE

Republican Candidates in Atlantic Highlands Can Point to Real Achievements

Peters Must be Doing Something Right on Banfield

Azzolina in Defense of Family in Town Square Dispute

Food Circus Employees Entitled to Sign Petitions

Independent Candidates Bring Intellect and Honesty to Campaign

Homeschooling is Serious Undertaking

Bishop Runs Roughshod Over History and Facts

Ferry Operator Sinks to New Low


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Candidate
MAC DARA F. X. LYDEN
is a
DEAD BEAT

Lyden Responds
 

The Lemonade Stand
by Carol Barbieri
Is Arnold on a Roll or is it Just Another Role?

On the Issues
by Gordon Bishop
'Liberalism' is Destroying America - Americans Must Now destroy 'Liberalism'

At Large
by Woody Zimmerman

Report from the Political Dirty Tricks Front

Spotlight on Keansburg
by Keansburg Councilman
Patrick Pecora
October Events and Other Council Meeting Action

Physician's Forum
by Alan Zaccaria, MD, FACS
Jersey Shore Medical Center Kick-Off Rally Is A Success

Food For Thought
by Mark Vogel
Get the Point

No Bull Fishing Report
by Jay Cosgrove
Reports of River, Bay and Ocean Fishing

Senior Savvy
by Bernice Roberts

The Awesome Google

Old Oak Trail
by Joe Reynolds
AH Environmental Comm.
Celebrate Nature in Atlantic Highlands on October 12th 


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T E L L    T H E M    Y O U   S A W    I T    I N    T H E   H E R A L D


1.  ELENOR HUSON CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY AT PARTY ON SUNDAY


atlantic highlands herald

ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ —  Friends will gather Sunday, October 19, at Memphis Pig-Out to celebrate the 100th birthday of Elenor Huson.

Born in Orange, New Jersey, Essex County on October 14, 1903, at an early age Elenor moved with her family to Winthrop, Massachusetts.  In 1910 and 1911 she lived in London England where she watched the coronation of George V.

On a summer trip to Ocean Grove, NJ with her grandfather, Elenor met Theodore Roosevelt, who sent her a letter and a teddy bear to remember the day.

Elenor continued her education at the University Museum of Fine Arts in Massachusetts where she studied art and dance.  To this day she is a fine pen and ink artist who's work has appeared locally on Christmas cards for the Historical Society and on the cover of the Chamber of Commerce, and for artwork for the tour of homes in Atlantic Highlands.

Elenor has also been active in Garden Club of NJ, the New Jersey Flower Club, where she became a valued judge for her expertise in horticulture and art of flower presentation.

During World War One she was a active volunteer in the American Red Cross. She rolled bandages after school.


Elenor Huson Celebrates 100th Birthday

Elenor has resided in Montvale, NJ, Little Silver, NJ, where she served as 8 years as chairwoman of the Little Silver Planning Board and in Atlantic Highlands.

She has always been interested in helping whenever she can.  Elenor is still very active, as you can often find her shopping on the streets of Atlantic Highlands, always with an enthusiastic smile for life and a pleasant outlook, no matter what the weather.  Elenor is a treasure to all that know her.

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2.  HENRY HUDSON REGIONAL SCHOOL PLANS KOREAN VETERANS  RECOGNITION CEREMONY ON NOVEMBER 11TH

HIGHLANDS, NJ — Henry Hudson Regional School is planning an assembly on November 11, 2003 at 9:30 A.M. to honor and recognize the men and women of our communities of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands who have served in the Armed Forces.

Due to the catastrophic events of September 11, 2001, our school pays tribute to those who lost their lives, extends our sympathies to their loved ones, and expresses our gratefulness to the policemen, firefighters and volunteers of our communities and New York City.

Henry Hudson Regional School is a partner with the Department of Defense 50th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee. Our school will be remembering “The Forgotten War” during the assembly.

We will conclude with a tribute to our American military currently serving in Iraq and throughout the world. Members of the 6th Motor Transport Battalion who have recently returned from Iraq will be attending. Mr. Robert M. Kreek of the USO, New York City Headquarters, will also join us.


Monmouth County Freeholder Theodore Narozanick speaking at HHRS 2002 Veterans Day Assembly.

Deputy Commissioner for Veterans Affairs Colonel (Retired ) Emil H. Philibosian will be our guest speaker. Members of the New Jersey State Police Blue and Gold Bagpipe Band, military working dogs, search and rescue dogs, and K-9 Units from several municipalities will also help us celebrate this day.

Refreshments will be served immediately following the ceremony in the Art Room.

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3.  ANNUAL LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL ILLUMINATES NJ COASTAL HISTORY


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NAVESINK, NJ —   New Jersey’s lighthouses are shining the spotlight on their special contributions to maritime heritage with the fourth annual Lighthouse Challenge Festival October 18 and 19.

Sponsored by the NJ Lighthouse Society, New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge 2003, gives visitors and lighthouse enthusiasts an opportunity to visit and  tour 11 of New Jersey’s land-based lighthouses in one weekend. Visitors will  receive a commemorative trading card with an antique photograph of each  lighthouse at each location. Collectors’ cards of all 11 lighthouses are suitable for mounting and framing.

“New Jersey lighthouses are fascinating monuments to our coastal heritage,” said Richard Weber, event coordinator for Lighthouse Challenge 2003. “We are continuing this event for the fourth year to educate the public about New Jersey’s lighthouses and the part they played, and in some cases continue to play, in America’s maritime history. We also want to honor the volunteers who staff New Jersey’s lighthouse and keep them open to the public.


photos ALLAN DEAN

Twin Lights Lighthouse, South Tower.  Highlands, NJ

“Several of these lights are not normally open to the public, so this is truly a unique opportunity to take in New Jersey history, and hopefully some picturesque fall scenery,” Weber added.



Sandy Hook Lighthouse and Keeper's Cottage
NJ Lighthouse Society members will be on site at all eleven locations throughout the weekend from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. presenting trading cards and holders. Visitors who complete the tour, will receive membership in the “Eleven  Points of Light Club” and receive a trading card of completion and be entered into a drawing for lighthouse collectibles donated by each participating light. Last year, some 897 individuals completed the tour, exceeding the previous year’s total by more than 300. With the event’s growing popularity, more people are expected to make the complete circuit this year.

“The cards help visitors track their journey, but you can really start and finish anywhere,” said Weber. “Some folks will work North to South, others will start in the middle and do half each day. Either way, it’s a fun, family adventure and each lighthouse will have detailed directions to the light north and south of them, to ensure that no one gets lost.”

The participating NJ Lighthouses are listed from North to South and around the Delaware Bay. For directions to each light, please go to the NJ Lighthouse Society website at www.njlhs.burlco.org. Lighthouses marked with an asterisk are only open to the public for special events.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Fort Hancock, Gateway National Park
Twin Lights of Navesink, Lighthouse Rd., Highlands
*Sea Girt Lighthouse - Beacon Blvd., Sea Girt
Barnegat Lighthouse - Barnegat State Park, Long Beach Island
Tucker’s Island Lighthouse - Tuckerton Seaport, Tuckerton
Absecon Lighthouse - Rhode Island Ave. between Atlantic & Pacific, Atlantic City
Hereford Lighthouse - Central Ave. North Wildwood
Cape May Lighthouse - Lighthouse Dr. Cape May Point
*East Point Lighthouse - East Pt. Rd. off Highway 47, Heislerville
*Finns Point Rear Range Lighthouse - Fort Mott State Park
*Tinicum Rear Range Lighthouse - Mantua & 2nd Sts., Paulsboro

According to Weber, some lighthouses are organizing special events around the Lighthouse Challenge 2003 celebration. “Visitors are likely to see the work of lighthouse artists, historical characters and reenactments, and other activities that will make the weekend extra special,” said Weber.

The New Jersey Lighthouse Society is a non-profit association dedicated to preserving and educating the public about lighthouses in New Jersey and the United States. For additional information about the organization, please send email to NJLHS@burlco.org, or visit their website at www.njlhs.burlco.org. For additional information about Lighthouse Challenge 2003, please call Rick Weber at 856-546-0514 or e-mail the event at njlhschallenge@excite.com

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4.   NANCY SCHARFF TO PERFORM AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS


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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ —  Singer, guitarist, pianist, songwriter and worship leader Nancy Scharff will perform in concert at the First Presbyterian Church at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.

The public is invited.

Scharff, who has performed widely throughout the metropolitan area, will be joined by the Praise Band of the King of Kings Lutheran Church in Middletown and the children's choirs of the First Presbyterian and King of Kings Lutheran churches.

The evening of exciting and inspirational Christian music will be held in the sanctuary of the 113-year-old Presbyterian church, located at Third and E. Highland avenues. The church is handicapped accessible.

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 5.  ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS MAYOR MICHAEL G. HARMON ENDORSES COUNCILMAN JACK ARCHIBALD FOR MAYOR


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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS,  NJ —  Atlantic Highlands Mayor Michael G. Harmon formally endorsed Councilman John C. Archibald Jr. for the office of Mayor in next month’s election. “I have worked with many council members during my 16 years in government, and Jack Archibald is prepared to be Mayor of Atlantic Highlands. Jack has served on every committee in the borough and he is respected and known throughout Monmouth County. He has been at the forefront of obtaining grants for our town and working with our neighboring communities and he is committed to preserving the small town flavor of Atlantic Highlands.”

Mayor Harmon has 16 years of government service including the last four as Mayor. Prior to that, Harmon served 12 years as a member of council. “During my administration, Jack has been a key member of my team. Thanks to his efforts, we have preserved more open space than ever before, our recreation programs have increased, and he is committed to finishing the First Avenue streetscape. Jack will maintain the high quality of life for our residents in Atlantic Highlands and continue to make this a great place for business’ to invest.”

Harmon also endorsed Republican candidates for council Debbie Traphagen and Marty Shann. “After looking closely at all four council candidates, I feel that Debbie and Marty are the superior choices. They have been active members of the volunteer community in Atlantic Highlands over the past ten years, which is in stark contrast to their opposition. Debbie has served the Fire Department faithfully with her work on the Ladies Auxiliary and Marty has donated his time with the Friends of Many Mind Creek and our Environmental Commission.”

(at left: Jack Archibald with Monmouth County Freeholder Ted Narozanick and Atlantic Highlands Mayor Michael Harmon.)

Councilman Archibald was first elected to the borough Council in 1996 and has successfully won re-election twice. Among the many committees he has served on are the Harbor Commission, the Finance Committee, and the Recreation Commission. “I am thrilled to have Mayor Harmon’s endorsement for Mayor of Atlantic Highlands. Under his administration, we have set the groundwork for the future of our town and I promise to continue the Republican tradition of good government in Atlantic Highlands. That tradition includes an open and honest government, support for our volunteers, and the revitalization of our business district.”

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 6.   AH PRESBYTERIANS ANNOUNCE GUEST PREACHERS TO LEAD WORSHIP SERVICE


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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — The Rev. Donald Fletcher, retired pastor of the Community Church of Rossmoor, a retirement community in Monroe Township, will be the guest preacher at the 10 a.m. Sunday Oct. 5 worship service at the 113-year old First Presbyterian Church.   

On Sunday, Oct. 12, the guest preacher will be Steven Jewell, a student in his final year at the Princeton Theological Seminary.

Fletcher, born in Ventor, grew up in Korea, son of a missionary physician and surgeon. He is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary and holds a doctorate in English from Princeton University.

Over his career, he and his wife were Presbyterian missionaries in Chile, Mexico and the Caribbean. Later he taught biblical studies at the University of Texas and English at Stillman College in Alabama. He then coordinated continuing education for the Presbyterian Board of Christian Education in Philadelphia and taught English for 13 years at Cherry Hill West High School.

The church is at the corner of Third and E. Highland avenues in Atlantic Highlands and the sanctuary is handicapped accessible.

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7.  TALK BY RANDALL GABRIELAN ON DATING POST CARDS AT MIDDLETOWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING


atlantic highlands herald

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The next Middletown Township Historical Society meeting will be held Monday, October 20th. Randall Gabrielan will speak on "Dating Post Cards and Using Them for Local History."  Actual examples from Middletown and elsewhere in Monmouth County will be shown.

Our meetings, which are open to the public, are held the third Monday of every month at 8:00 p.m. at the MacLeod-Rice House, Croydon Hall, at the intersection of Leonardville Road and Chamone Avenue in the Leonardo section of Middletown, Monmouth County.

Light refreshment will be served. All are welcome to attend and please bring a friend. Questions? Contact middletownhist@earthlink.net

The museum is open every Sunday, 1-4 p.m., through November 23rd. Please come see our current exhibit "Our Road to Liberty" which tells the stories of ordinary people and places affected by the Revolutionary War. The museum is also open by appointment now and after Nov. 23rd. Call 732-291-2835.

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 8.   HENRY HUDSON CELEBRATES GROUNDBREAKING ADDITION AND RENOVATIONS FOR REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

.

State provides $4.3 million for Monmouth County Project

HIGHLANDS, NJ — Local, state and school officials held a ceremonial groundbreaking September 10, 2003 for a $14.6 million addition and renovations to Henry Hudson Regional High School in Highlands, Monmouth County. The educational expansion will include science labs, a cafetorium, health, safety and system upgrades. The State will fund $4.3 million toward the construction costs.

The funding is part of an $8.6 billion school construction program that will help to revitalize the community, bringing jobs and targeted growth to the area.

"This high school expansion in Highlands represents New Jersey's continued commitment to our children. We are living up to our most important obligation by providing 21st century facilities to ensure that every child has the opportunity to get the education they deserve and the skills necessary to start school," said Governor McGreevey.

"The state is committed to improving school facilities for New Jersey students in a cost-effective, streamlined and efficient manner. School buildings must be designed to provide access to modern technology and a thoughtful environment which is conducive to student achievement," he added.

"This project is another example of the collaborative efforts between the Boroughs of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands and the Henry Hudson Regional Board of Education and their commitment to educational excellence. The new construction and renovations will enable the faculty and staff to create new learning opportunities and enhance extra and co-curricular experiences ensuring that Henry Hudson students receive a quality education and are prepared for a changing technological society," stated regional school district Superintendent Dr. Brian Zychowski.

The project involves new construction of a 26,200 square-foot addition to the 475-student high school at One Grand Tour. It will include two science labs with a shared prep room, one science demonstration room, a cafetorium with stage, a serving kitchen, faculty dining area and new media center. Presently, there are 34 classrooms. Renovations will include the reconfiguration of classroom space, refurbishing of the music room, replacement of the fire alarm system, upgrades of the HVAC and security system, sidewalk replacement and additional lighting.

"This project is an example of the progress made in the implementation of the state's historic school construction initiative. This is one of many that will be built under the educational facilities law," said Alfred McNeill CEO New Jersey Schools Construction Corporation (SCC).

Under the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, SCC is responsible for school projects throughout the State. The program is the largest public construction program ever undertaken by the State of New Jersey and represents one of the largest programs of its type ever undertaken in the nation.

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 9.   NJ RESIDENTS ORGANIZING TO HIT DC STREETS AGAINST IRAQ OCCUPATION


atlantic highlands herald

BELLE MEAD, NJ —  They marched against the war build up and the invasion of Iraq. Now they are marching against the occupation and saying to “Bring the troops home now!”

On Saturday, October 25, there will be simultaneous demonstrations in San Francisco and in Washington DC and Somerset County residents are preparing their footwear to join the one in Washington DC. The demands of the march are to “Bring the Troops Home Now” and to “End the Occupation of Iraq.”

The bus from Somerset County is being organized by a group called the Committee to End the Occupation of Iraq, http://EndOccIraq.org made up of opponents of the occupation of Iraq mostly from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania but including members from other states and other countries as well.

One of the founding members of the committee, which was formed this past June, is Bob Witanek. Previously as a coordinator for SPEAK OUT AGAINST THE US WAR ON IRAQ!, Bob Witanek had organized numerous demonstrations around Somerset County as well as transportation to several previous national marches in Washington DC. He believes that opposing the occupation is the natural progression from his previous opposition to the war on Iraq. According to Bob Witanek, “We demanded that the US lift the sanctions, stop the bombing and withdraw its troops that were threatening war with Iraq. We said no to invasion. We stated clearly that we did not believe that there were weapons of mass destruction of Iraq and we refuted assertions and innuendo that falsely suggested an Iraqi tie to 9-11 terrorism. We have been proven to be right – no WMD’s have been found and Bush just admitted that there was no Iraq connection to 9-11. The war was sold to us based on a pack of lies and now there are hundreds of dead GIs.”

He continues, “Now the US is bogged down in a counter insurgency war trying to impose its will on the Iraqi people who have a proud tradition of resisting foreign occupation. US troops are dying almost every day and Iraqis are perishing in much greater numbers – either being killed by the foreign troops or perishing from the impact of the occupation. It is time to reunite GIs with their families by getting them out of Iraq today – before another one dies – and to let the Iraqi people enjoy true sovereignty where they can build a new nation without the boot of foreign military occupiers on their necks.”

The bus from Hillsborough in Somerset County will leave from the commuter lot on Amwell Road across from the Post Office at 7 am and return around 9pm. Bus fare is $35 although Bob Witanek states that discounts are available and promises that if there are seats left on the bus, nobody will be turned away for inability to pay full fare. Those interested in joining the march from Somerset County should contact the Committee to End the Occupation at 908-881-5275 or by e-mail, to bwitanek@igc.org. More information is available at http://EndOccIraq.org .

In addition to organizing a bus to the march in DC, the Committee to End the Occupation has organized over a dozen slide show presentations and discussions in the last month about the US occupation and is petitioning congress to vote no to the request for $87 billion more for the occupation costs,

Buses leaving from other locations around the state are listed below: http://nowarnj.org/2003_Oct25_DC.htm

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10.  NJ COAST DAYS SET FOR OCTOBER 11 AT LONG BEACH ISLAND AND OCTOBER 12 IN CAPE MAY


atlantic highlands herald

Celebrating the NJ Coast with entertainment, education and free, hands-on activities.

LONG BEACH ISLAND, NJ — The NJ Marine Sciences Consortium (NJMSC) does it again with their annual event, NJ COAST DAY. Event attendees can enjoy a Rescue Demonstration by the Coast Guard, live animal “touch tanks”, hands-on environmental art, tours of AJ Meerwald – NJ’s Official Tall Ship, survival suits for attendees to try on, live entertainment and much more.

NJ COAST DAY, an annual event sponsored by the NJMSC, is taking place Saturday, October 11, 2003 in the event’s new location, Long Beach Island and on Sunday, October 12, 2003 in Cape May. The event, which caters to both adults and children, will feature exhibits, dock tours, educational activities, boat tours including the NJMSC's research vessel the R/V Walford, demonstrations and interactive displays.  Meet scientists, researchers, educators, commercial fishermen, artists and government agencies. Each site will feature "The Coastal  Classroom," a children's area with "Make and Take" marine science activities such as fish printing, mystery microscopes, sand investigations, horseshoe crab model making. Each site will also feature "rotating" live music with a band and two well-known maritime folksingers, Jim Albertson and Valerie Vaughn, and visual artisans who work with coastal and maritime themes.

All events are free of charge. Participants include Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Tuckerton Seaport, The New Jersey Fishing Show, Alliance for a Living Ocean, the United States Coast Guard, Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve, Ocean County Library, Stockton College, Montclair State University, Rider University, Novins Planetarium at Ocean County College, Sparkles, the famous robot trashcan and much more.  Not all activities will take place at both locations.

This year, NJ COAST DAY events will take place in Cape May at The Lobster House Restaurant and Dock, Utsch’s Marina and the NJ Audubon Society’s Nature Center of Cape May, and also in Long Beach Island at Viking Village near Barnegat Light. Details of the event can be found at www.njmsc.org.

NJ COAST DAY, in its fifth successful year, is dedicated to promoting a greater understanding of New Jersey’s coastal environment and the importance of wise use of this precious resource. The main focus of the NJMSC, located in Sandy Hook, NJ, consists of research and providing educational opportunities for the public on the coastal environment in NJ.

Coast Day NJ 2003 would not be possible without the assistance of: NJ Maritime Resources (NJDOT), Cumberland County College, Trust for Public Land’s Barnegat Bay Environmental Grant Fund, Ocean County Office of Public Affairs and  Tourism, Dewling Associates, Shop-Rite/Wakefern Foods, Novartis Pharmaceuticals,  Switlik Parachute, Port Authority of NY/NJ, M.D. Oppenheim and Co., P.C. and the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council.

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11.   HISTORY AND ARCHIVES DAY PROGRAM SET FOR OCT. 18TH


atlantic highlands herald

MANALAPAN, NJ —  Final details are in place for the Annual New Jersey History and Archives Day at the Monmouth County Library, in Manalapan Township. The date is Saturday, October 18, 2003, with the all-day event starting at 9 a.m. and ending at approximately 3 p.m.

The event is a wonderful opportunity for young and old to learn about state and local history and meet archivists, historians, curators, and others in the historical field. There is no charge for admission. The Monmouth County Library is located at 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, NJ.

County Clerk Claire French, the sponsor of the event along with the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders, announced today that the coveted "2003 Jane Clayton Award" will be presented to Michael S. Adelberg during a brief program that begins at 10:00 a.m. and will feature brief remarks by Freeholder Theodore Narozanick.

Mr. Adelberg is an independent historian and author known for his outstanding publications on the American Revolution in Monmouth County. Included in his works are his books, "Roster of the People of Revolutionary Monmouth County" (1997), "The American Revolution in Monmouth County: An Annotated Bibliography" (1995) and journal articles such as "A Combination to Trample All Law Underfoot: The Association for Retaliation and the American Revolution in Monmouth County" (New Jersey History, (Fall/Winter 1997).

History and Archives Day will also feature a presentation by "Governor William Livingston," New Jersey's first state governor (1776-1790), portrayed by Christian Johnson, as well as numerous exhibits, including documents from the Revolutionary era.

In addition, a premiere will be held for a film, titled "Archives and History Day 2002: The Movie." It will be shown for the first time at approximately 12:10 p.m. It includes some of the highlights of the same event last year, which included a portrayal of Benjamin Franklin by the noted Dean Bennett, of the American Historical Theatre. The film was produced by Nicholas Saretsky.

For additional program notes, see www.visitmonmouth.com/archives or call 732-308-3771.

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12.  JERSEY SHORE HALF MARATHON RESULTS ANNOUNCED


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By Jim Robbins

SANDY HOOK, NJ — Six hundred and thirty-six road racers competed in the 31st running of the Jersey Shore Half Marathon presented by the Shore Athletic Club (SAC) with the cooperation of the Freehold Area Running Club (FARC) and the Jersey Shore Running Club (JSRC) on a sunny, breezy Sunday morning, October 5, with temperatures in the mid 60 degrees at Gateway National Recreation Area - Sandy Hook.

Dave DeMonico of South River was the first to cross the finish line located on the main road outside Parking Lot E, which was also the starting area, at a racing time of 1:16:03 (I hour, 16 minutes and 3 seconds). "There's a lot of military history out there" said Demonico in his initial comments when asked his thoughts on today's event. Fort Hancock was the name of the area prior to it being taken over by our national park system and renamed, about which DeMonico was referring. "I want to compliment the people who manned the water spots, they were encouraging and efficient," he added. Four water spots were strategically placed and serviced by cross country teams of Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School and Monmouth University, supervised by their respective coaches, Renee Talon and Joseph Compagni along with students from Marine Academy of Science and Technology (M.A.S.T.), and employees of New Jersey Natural Gas.


photos Robert Both
Dave Demonico, the men's winner after the race


Rian Landers - the women's winner accepting her award.

Coming in a distant second, on this double-loop course, which goes to the lighthouse area at the end of Sandy Hook to complete the 13.1 mile total distance, was Frank Pucher of Morristown at 1:17:52. "No, I knew he (DeMonico) was too far out in front so we, the third and fourth runner and me, teamed up and finished together," said Pucher when asked if he tried to catch today's champion. Third was Joe Donahue of Point Pleasant 1:17:57 and fourth was Guy Norton at 1:17:59 of Newton.

Spring Lake's Rian Landers was first finisher for the women, 7th place overall, at 1:21:48 followed by Dorian Meyer of Locust at 1:23:17, 8th overall, and third place woman was Laurie (Parton) Gordon of Newton at 1:29:01, 27th overall. "This is it, because it's the first time I've ever raced a half marathon," said Landers when asked what her best time was for this distance. Landers is used to races of lesser distance in her cross-country experience at Lafayette College in Easton, PA, from which she recently graduated, she further informed.

At the midway turnaround, Meyer was in front and at that point Landers began to close the gap and by the 11-mile mark she took the lead and eventually became today's woman's champion.

John Soucheck of Little Silver is the Half Marathon's champion racewalker at 1:52:20. "I'm satisfied - I consider it a good workout session," he offered in commenting on his performance. "It's pretty straight and easy and good and flat, but it was a bit windy out there," he said in further comments on the course and weather conditions.

Wheelchair victory went to David Lowell of Somerville at 1:03:20. "Because of the double-loop course, I had some trouble on my second return to the finish area with having to avoid people," he noted when asked to comment. His overall response, however, was positive for the course and event and he was satisfied with his performance. Lowell is the wheelchair champion of the August running of the Belmar Five Mile Run where he posted a 25:56.

Dawn Ciccone of Highlands, active member of the JSRC, finished at 1:38:22, good for 2nd place in her 45-49 age group and 80th place overall. "I like the pretty, picturesque, panoramic views it offers," said Ciccone, an 8th grade English teacher at Monmouth Beach school, whose alliterative course description seems appropriate for her profession.

JSRC president Adele McDonough had a PR (Personal Record) with her time of 1:33:16, good for 41st overall and earned her a 2nd place award of the 20-29 age group. "It was fun - especially the people servicing the water spots who were cheering us on - that was the best part," said McDonough.

At the starting line, Walter MacGowan, president of SAC, informed the racers of the four water stops and encouraged them to make use of them. He then introduced Elizabeth Flannelly of Monmouth Beach and a member of Red Bank's Monmouth Conservatory of Music who gave a fine rendition of our Star-Spangled Banner. Phil Hinck, past president of JSRC, and director of the summer 5-mile races in Spring Lake, Belmar and Red Bank directed the assembled racers to the starting line and Hoyle Mozee, veteran member of SAC, did a five-second countdown to the start and the racers were on their way.

The event this year introduced a 5K as an added feature which had 42 finishers who raced on the same, but abbreviated to its 3.1 mile length, half-marathon course. Kent and Sue Lucas of Norman, Oklahoma were the male-female winners of this inaugural Lighthouse 5K, which had its start 5 minutes after the half-marathoners were underway: Kent at 18:15, Sue at 21:54.

Isabelle Keeley, race director, assisted by Lauren Hyer, daughter of Bob and Linda Hyer past presidents, both, of FARC, presented awards of lighthouse replicas to the aforementioned winners and age-group leaders at the Parking Lot E's concession and rest room section, which served as the staging area. Special Charlie Rooney sailboat replicas went to the top three winners, racewalkers as well as runners. Rooney, late mayor of Sea Bright, was a long-time member of the SAC and a veteran long-distance runner on the Shore area scene. Random prizes were offered and the main prize of a television set was won by Kristina Cossaboom of Trenton who finished the 13.1 miles at 2:05:03. "I'm taking it with me to college," she said when asked her plans for her new possession. Kristina attends the College of New Jersey.

"It was the largest number we've had here at the Hook. I'm so excited about the excellent turnout and want to thank all the runners for their support. I want to acknowledge the know-how cooperation we get from the volunteers of the area clubs (SAC, FARC, JSRC). Compliments, too, to the chairpeople of the organizing committee who did an outstanding job of food preparation and distribution for the athletes. I want to recognize Gene Geer who helped get the new 5K part of this year's event underway. Thanks to Tom Wendell, Marcia and Avril Shapiro, Phil and Penny Hinck. Manny and Roberta Eisner, John Eddy and Jennifer Thien and all that helped," said the obviously proud and satisfied director, Isabelle Keeley, when asked for her summary observations.

Other finishers of the 13.1 miles challenge:
Fair Haven: Michael Wingertzahn 1:43:36, Johanne Morin 1:52:15, Suzie Drummond 1:57:28, Jill Bloom 1:58:23, Stephen Noglows 2:01:25, Tony Drummond 2:05:09, John Drummond 2:05:10, Randi Cohen 2:06:36, Jane Decanio 2:10:06, Kelley Duddy 2:10:07, Molly Taft 2:11:24, Simon Cole 2:18:30, Jill Stevin 2:45:37.

Highlands: Al Smuda 1:41:19, Andrew Bryceland 1:47:11, Kim Myers 1:47:26, Sharon Dunn 1:48:56, Dale Barth 1:50:12 (award), John Molta 1:54:21, Megan Boord 2:16:34.

Middletown: Alex Fowlie 1:18:14 (award winner), Nicole Karatzia 1:34:22, Vincent DeLucia !;38:32, John Elliott 1:39:24, Michael Keogh 1:40:49, Robert Gruhler 1:41:47, James Mason 1:43:23, John Pape 1:43:37 (award), Thomas Delahanty 1:43:57, Peter Rowe 1:49:26, Marybeth McDonnell 1:50:11, David Burke 1:51:36 (award), Martin Dugan !:51:52, Suzanne Carroll 1:58:04, Kathy Porzio 1:59:53, Maureen Paone 2:03:20, Howard Geiler 2:08:42, Stephen P. Kelleher 2:09:21, Grace Rowe 2:14:06 (award), Diana Burton 2:16:54, Janet Fowler 2:17:34, Mary Jane Tortorella 2:23:44, Lynne Glass 2:25:19, Patrick Loughney 2:31:56.

Red Bank: Joel Lizotte 1:33:41, Maureen Massell 1:38:03, Mary Beth Glaccum 1:43:12, Drew Scott 1:47:30, Heather Fallon 1:47:37, Kathryn Bryan 1:52:07, John Keavey 2:03:41, Meghan Daly 2:13:33, Rachelle Mikita 2:15:22.

Rumson: Charlie Komar 1:28:29 (award), Maximilian Sparshaft 1:33:16, Bob Kelleher 1:33:40, Gaye Nicholson 1:45:07, Susan Drastal 1:46:05, Robert Walsh 1:47:22, Wilson Beebe 1:47:31, Amanda Cashmore 1:47:38, Jayne Chandler 1:47:44, Richard Sussman 1:50:05, Stephen Szakats 1:50:10, Christine Foggia 1:51:28, Patricia Szakats 1:54:45, Nathan Kemler 1:58:35, Bill O'Brien 1:58:37, Norm Dannen 2:02:52, Elizabeth Young 2:06:19, Suzanne Parton 2:07:26, Trudy Parton 2:23:58 (award), Charlie Parton 2:23:58.

Others in area: Tom Schaefer 1:31:40, Keansburg; John Jankowski 1:36:24, Little Silver; Craig Kinnison 1:42:43, Monmouth Beach; Craig Stamer 1:44:16, Little Silver; Natalie Mages 1:46:14, Sea Bright; David Stammer 1:47:15, Little Silver; Timothy Skinner 1:47:22, Monmouth Beach; Bill Burke 1:47:54, Atl. Highlands; Linda Puzzo 1:48:06, West Keansburg; Michael Dunigan 1:49:05, Little Silver; Steve Collins 1:49:06, Oceanport; Marty Frumkin 1:49:41, Atl. Highlands; Peter McNamara 1:49:49, Little Silver; Michael Campbell 1:52:21, Monmouth Beach; Charlie Rooney 1:53:43, Sea Bright; Sarah Black 1:55:04, Atl. Highlands (award); Misty Matuskiewicz 1:55:46, Sea Bright; Gregory Matuskiewicz 1:57:59, Atl. Highlands; Robin Ginsberg 2:00:24 and ken White 2:00:37, Oceanport; Elise Primavera 2:00:51, Monmouth Beach; Carol Defazio 2:01:11, Little Silver (award); Christine Sansone 2:01:21, Monmouth Beach; Gayle Stamer 2:01:22, Little Silver; Tonya Miller 2:04:15, Sea Bright; Paula Giblin 2:04:28, Monmouth Beach; Jean Masella 2:06:12 and Janice Rudow 2:10:47, Little Silver; Walter Walling 2:11:49, Atl.Highlands; Kathleen Donato 2:17:00, Oceanport; Sally Bruno 2:17:01, Little Silver; Christine Donohue 2:19:07, Atl. Highlands.

Road racers have the popular Run Thru Deal 5 Mile event on Sunday, Oct. 12th at 11a.m., with a 1 mile fun run at 10 a.m., info call 732- 531-1994. On Oct.18th is the Run Thru Interlaken, a 5K run at 11a.m., info call 732-531-4014. Down the road is the JSRC's 10th annual Trick or Trot 4 mile run on the boardwalk in Long Branch on Oct.26th at 10:30 a.m., info call 732-542-6090.

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13.  SHERIFF'S OFFICER RECOGNIZED FOR ASSISTING BEACH RESCUE


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FREEHOLD, NJ —  In an award ceremony on October 3, 2003, Sheriff Oxley recognized and congratulated Sheriff’s Officer Ron Glab for his quick response in saving the lives of an adult and two children from drowning. On July 13th, 2003, the off-duty Sheriff’s Officer assisted lifeguards rescuing distressed swimmers in a riptide off of Belmar, New Jersey.

Sheriff’s Officer Glab was off duty on the north side of the 13th avenue jetty in the borough of Belmar when the incident occurred. Glab observed ten people being swept out to sea by a rip tide current. Glab also recognized that all available lifeguards were in the water and the number of swimmers outnumbered the lifeguards.

Glab realized that his intervention was necessary, and he swam into the water using a body board. Glab approached a father and child and told them to take the board while he towed them back to the shore. After they reached the shore, Glab returned to the water and assisted another child back to shore. Belmar lifeguards successfully brought all of the remaining swimmers back to shore without further incident.

According to statistics, approximately 12 Americans die of drowning every day. Rip tide currents are unpredictable and a dangerous aspect of beach swimming. At the ceremony, Sheriff’s Officer Glab was presented with a certificate of appreciation.


(L to R): Sheriff Oxley, S/O Ron Glab, Lt. Kevin Marshall,
Chief Tom Reiff, Lt. Steve Ellis, Capt. Cerrato.

“Through your professionalism, training, and level headed response during difficult circumstances, you helped to save a life. With your quick reaction, you met the highest calling of a law enforcement officer to protect and serve the public,” Sheriff Oxley said during the ceremony.

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14.  BROOKDALE TO HOST FIRST NJ COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE


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LINCROFT, NJ —  Brookdale Community College will host the LaRosa, NJ Community College Leadership Conference on Friday, October 10. The program marks the first time more than 120 New Jersey community college student leaders will meet as a group. The program will begin at 9:00 A.M. and conclude at 5:00 P.M. The event will be held in the Student Life Center. Parking is most convenient in lots # 4, #6 and #7.

Dr. Kenneth Ender, Cumberland County Community College president, will give the keynote address.
The conference has been named in memory of Darlene LaRosa's contributions to the quality of college life at Wagner College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and Bergen County Community College. Most recently, she served as the Director of Student Activities at Passaic County Community College. She was extensively involved in community service promoting AIDS awareness and worked with organizations and support programs. She was a member of the NNJ Quilt Project.

"Darlene LaRosa was instrumental in the establishment of the statewide community college directors meetings, of which, this leadership conference is a byproduct," said Mary Sullivan, Executive Director of Student Life and Civic Engagement, Raritan Valley Community College, North Branch.

Students will begin the session with a leadership assessment test to determine their leadership style and access organizational skills. The program will include stress management and program planning. Breakout sessions will include "Who Moved My Cheese?", meeting management, effective presentations and situational leadership. A networking reception will conclude the day's program.

"We are proud to welcome the student leaders to the first LaRosa, NJ Community College Conference at Brookdale," said Don Dickson, Director, Student Life & Activities.

For more information, contact Mary Sullivan at #908-526-1200, extension 8318.

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 15.  ACCLAIMED CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY EXPERT TO SPEAK AT BROOKDALE


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LINCROFT, NJ — Brookdale's Student Health Center will host Peter Bell, nationally known alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment expert, on Thursday, October 23. He will present a free program, "Cultural Aspects of Chemical Dependency" from 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M in the Navesink II room of the Student Life Center. Lunch will be included in the program.

Bell is a former Director of the Institute on Black Chemical Abuse and an appointee to the White House Conference on a Drug Free America. He was recently appointed to a congressionally created National Commission on Drug Free Schools.

Bell is the co-author of two Hazelton publications, the most recent being Chemical Dependency and the African-American: Counseling Strategies and Community Issues. He has served as Executive Vice President for both Publishing & Educational Services and New Ventures Development for the renowned non-profit education, prevention and treatment services organization. Earlier in his career, Bell was a keynote speaker at a White House Conference for a Drug-Free America.

Bell has been featured on several television specials including NBC's Today Show, ABC's Evening News, Person of the Week, and PBS's, The Chemical People.

CADC's and CEU's for the program are pending.  Call #732-224-2106 for additional information.

Registration for the free program is required. Please call #732-224-2788.

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 16.  COMMUNIVERSITY INFORMATION SESSIONS ANNOUNCED AT BROOKDALE - 8 MEMBER ALLIANCE OF SCHOOLS


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LINCROFT, NJ Prospective students are invited to learn more about the New Jersey Coastal Communiversity education opportunities. Information sessions held at Brookdale's Lincroft campus have been announced for October, November, and December.

One-on-one advising is available every Wednesday from October 15 through December 17. Topics will include admissions, the transfer process, financial aid and the "Communiversity Advantage." The sessions will be held in the Student Life Center from 10:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.

Information sessions are scheduled as follows:

· Tuesday, October 14 - 12:00 noon to 1:00 P.M., SLC room 105
· Thursday, October 16 - 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., SLC room 208
· Tuesday, November 4 - 12:00 noon to 1:00 P.M., SLC room 208
· Thursday, November 6 - 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., SLC room 208
· Tuesday, December 2 - 12:00 noon to 1:00 P.M., SLC room 105
· Thursday, December 4 - 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., SLC room 105

Communiversity member institutions offer a variety of programs enabling students to transfer Brookdale Associate Degrees to complete a Bachelor's degree locally in the areas of business, criminal justice, education information, health sciences (nursing, information technology and liberal arts.

The Communiversity, led by Brookdale, is an eight-member alliance of higher education colleges and universities offering selected associate, bachelor's and master's degrees and graduate certificates in Monmouth County.

The additional participating institutions include Georgian Court College, Kean University, Montclair State University, New Jersey City University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Ocean County College and Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey.

For more information, visit www.njcommuniversity.org or call #732-280-7090, extension 3.

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17.  HABITAT FOR HUMANITY INFORMATION MEETING SET FOR  OCTOBER 21ST


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SHREWSBURY, NJ  Habitat For Humanity of Long Branch, an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, is conducting an informational meeting for individuals and groups who are interested in learning more about Habitat’s mission, activities, and volunteer opportunities in northeastern Monmouth County.  The meeting will take place at the Parish House of Christ Church of Shrewsbury, which is on Sycamore Avenue at Route 35, on Tuesday, October 21 at 7:30pm. Parking is behind the Parish House.   All are welcome.

Founded in 1976, Habitat For Humanity is a non-profit organization dedicated to the elimination of substandard poverty housing and to the building of decent affordable homes for low-income families around the world. Since 1993, Habitat for Humanity of Long Branch has been building homes in a service area extending from the Raritan Bay to Ocean Township and from the Garden State Parkway to the Shore.  With the help of volunteers and the “sweat equity” of the families who eventually live in the homes, Habitat for Humanity of Long Branch has completed the renovation or building of eight homes in the last nine years.  We are about to start building this fall on a property in Middletown. The lifeblood of this work is the service of volunteers. There are numerous volunteer opportunities not just in construction but also on committees for   fundraising and development, family selection and nurturance, public relations and hospitality, etc.

Please join us and find out more about the work of Habitat for Humanity in your community and the many ways in which you can demonstrate your caring through rewarding hands on service.

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 18.  HELP SWEEP THE BEACH FREE OF MARINE DEBRIS


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SANDY HOOK, NJ – Hundreds of volunteers are expected to participate in Clean Ocean Action’s 18th Annual Fall Beach Sweeps on "Make a Difference Day," Saturday, October 25. The statewide cleanups will take place at over 40 sites in Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, and Cape May Counties. The Sweeps educate citizens about nonpoint source pollution, the leading cause of poor water quality in New Jersey. The Beach Sweeps are unique in that COA tracks information about marine debris off the Jersey Shore by collecting data during the cleanups.


photo ALLAN DEAN

BEACH SWEEP - Saturday, October 25, 2003

"The Beach Sweeps is an excellent opportunity for people to take responsibility for keeping their communities clean, help the environment, and enjoy a day at the beach with thousands of fellow ocean enthusiasts," said Kari Jermansen, COA’s Outreach Director. "With every Sweep, citizens become aware of their role in creating nonpoint source pollution and learn how to become the solution to this pollution."

COA invites people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in the fight against ocean pollution by participating in the next Beach Sweeps on October 25, from 9AM to 12:30PM, at ocean, lake, river, and bay locations from Keyport to Cape May. The event is especially popular with and rewarding for students and scouts who also benefit from the event by fulfilling community service hours and school projects and making a difference in their communities.

"The thousands of people that volunteer at the Sweeps help focus attention on the need for enforcement of laws and education of citizens about this pollution problem," said Cindy Zipf, COA’s Executive Director. "The data from 18 years of Beach Sweeps shows that beach litter remains a problem. It is not only unsightly but also deadly to marine life. One of COA’s goals is to reduce sources of litter to ultimately bring an end to the need for Beach Sweeps."

Volunteers interested in participating in the Fall Beach Sweeps are instructed to bring gloves, dress for the weather (event is rain or shine), and wear sunscreen and hard-soled shoes. Only groups of 15 or more must pre-register by contacting Clean Ocean Action. For a list of Sweeps sites, visit Clean Ocean Action’s website at www.cleanoceanaction.org (follow links for "Beach Sweeps"). Or, for information about sites in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, call 732-872-0111, and for sites in South Jersey, call 609-729-9262. COA also seeks volunteers or groups who are interested in leading a local cleanup at an ocean beach or at a lake, river, or stream location. Contact COA for details.

Background

Clean Ocean Action’s (COA) Beach Sweeps, held twice a year, is the largest grassroots environmental event in the state of New Jersey and one of the longest running cleanups of its kind in the United States. The Beach Sweeps is a unique event that addresses nonpoint source or "pointless" pollution, which is caused by litter in the environment and by runoff from lawns, gardens, construction sites, and roadways. The visible form of pointless pollution—litter—comes mainly from sources on land: being left at the beach, blown to the beach, or brought to the shore via storm drains.

The data collected from the beach cleanups provides important information about the type of beach debris found on our shores, helps identify and monitor pollution trends, and assists lawmakers in writing strong and enforceable laws to make NJ’s beaches litter-free. The results of the cleanups are based on data cards that volunteers completed as they collected debris at the Sweeps. The data cards list 81 possible debris items in eight major categories: plastic, foam plastic, glass, rubber, metal, paper, wood, and cloth. The data is compiled and submitted to The Ocean Conservancy in Washington, DC, as part of its international database on marine debris and worldwide campaign against ocean pollution.

In 2002, the Spring and Fall Beach Sweeps attracted 4,037 volunteers to the Jersey Shore. These volunteers collected and categorized 221,742 pieces of debris at 114 locations, totaling nearly 60,000 pounds. The complete results from 2002 and previous years are posted on COA’s website, www.CleanOceanAction.org  (follow the links for "Beach Sweeps").

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 19.  TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TAKES STEPS TO PROTECT WOODED AREAS AND SLOPES


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MIDDLETOWN, NJ —  The Township Committee adopted a re-tooled version of an ordinance tonight designed to protect Middletown’s landscape from excessive clearing of wooded areas and hillsides.

“Middletown’s landscape is filled with beautifully wooded areas and hillsides that are worthy of preservation for aesthetic and environmental reasons,” said Mayor Rosemarie D. Peters. “Excessive clearing of land detracts from Middletown’s rural characteristics and can have detrimental and potentially irreversible impact on the environment.”

The proposed ordinance was developed to address excessive clearing of land, a problem that has been occurring, especially on wooded slopes along the Navesink River, without appropriate consideration of its impact on the environment, explained Planning Director Anthony Mercantante. He noted that substantial tree removal and soil disturbance can negatively affect drainage and cause soil erosion, and can harm neighboring properties.

The proposed ordinance would establish a review procedure and criteria for clearing, regrading, or filling of land where site plan or subdivision review is not otherwise required, in order to avoid or minimize negative environmental impacts and potential impacts on adjoining properties. Regulated activities would include removal of trees or vegetation, soil disturbance, or importation of fill, including wood chips, Mercantante said.

An Application for Development would have to be submitted to the zoning officer prior to the start of work, conducted wholly or cumulatively within any 12 month period, under the following circumstances:

  • Vacant properties in any non-residential and multi-family residential zone where the regulated activities would affect an area of more than 3,000 square feet and/or would involve importation of more than 10 cubic yards of fill, including wood chips.
  • Properties located in single and two-family residential zones where the proposed work would affect an area that is in excess of the permitted lot coverage for the zone and/or would involve importation of more than 10 cubic yards of fill, including wood chips.
  • Any property where the area of activity involves slopes of 15 percent or greater, where tree removal or soil disturbance would involve an area greater than 1,000 square feet and/or where more than 5 cubic yards of fill material, including wood chips, would be imported.

The Application for Development, which would include a plan, to scale, showing the proposed area, extent, and nature of activity, would be reviewed by the Township Engineer’s office to ensure the disturbance would not result in new drainage or erosion problems on adjoining properties. The engineer’s office may also consider alternative approaches that could be taken to mitigate the impacts of the proposed activity, Mercantante said.

If the engineer’s office determines that a proposed activity would result in significant environmental impacts, a fully detailed and dimensioned grading plan prepared by a professional engineer, along with any necessary supporting documentation, must be submitted for further review, he said.

The proposed ordinance is not intended to apply to routine property maintenance, landscaping, removal of dead or diseased trees, clearing of nuisance vegetation, farming activities associated with land under farm assessment, or activities undertaken by a governmental agency or public utility.

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20.  NEW SAVINGS PROGRAM OFFERS MIDDLETOWN RESIDENTS DISCOUNTED PRICES ON PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS


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MIDDLETOWN, NJ —   All Middletown residents will have the opportunity to receive discounted pricing on prescription medications at no cost to the township, thanks to the newly established Middletown Township Prescription Savings Card Program.

“We are very proud to be the first municipality in Monmouth County to offer a savings program that provides every resident regardless of age, income or health, with a mechanism to combat the ever-increasing cost of prescription medications,” said Mayor Rosemarie D. Peters. “We anticipate the Middletown Township Prescription Savings Card Program will be of great benefit to many residents, especially our seniors, disabled and unemployed, who must often pay for expensive prescription medications on fixed or limited incomes without any assistance.”

Township Committee authorized the Garden State Pharmacy Owners Services Corporation, Hamilton, to offer the cost-savings program to residents tonight by resolution. The Middletown Township Prescription Saving Card Program is designed to enhance existing coverage for those already insure and to provide help to those who get no help when it comes to pay for any number of necessary medications. There is no limit to the number of medications resident can purchase using the savings card. Residents can save from 10 to 50 percent on all name brand and generic medications that require a prescription, explained Mayor Peters.

The savings card can be used at thousands of pharmacies locally and nationally. Participating stores in the area include Shoprite, Stop-n-Shop, Acme, Target, Eckerd Pharmacy, Drug Fair, Foodtown, Rite-aid, Crestview Pharmacy, and Sun Ray Drugs. All that is required to enroll in the program is completed applications form, proof of residents and a small annual fee. The membership fee per household is $20 for one year of $40 for three years.

“It is our hope that the Middletown Township Prescription Savings Card program will lend a helping hand to any community member who may be in need of a way to better afford prescriptions drugs, said Mayor Rosemarie D. Peters “As always, we will continue to work on your behalf to find meaningful programs that help residents remain healthy, live well, and enjoy our community.”

The Middletown Township Prescription Savings Card is a discount saving card and not a managed care or supplemental insurance program. For more information, contact the toll-free customer service number at 1-800-0037.

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JAY AND OTHERS LIKE HIM NEED YOUR HELP TO FIGHT JUVENILE DIABETES


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It is with reluctance and a heavy heart that we write this request again for you to support our efforts to cure diabetes. But, this battle must be fought because diabetes is a chronic debilitating autoimmune disease that kills one American every three minutes.

Insulin is not a cure. It only keeps Jay and others with type one diabetes alive. Although Jay’s blood sugar is under control and his lifestyle has improved since he started using an insulin pump Jay still faces the complications of diabetes: kidney failure, heart disease, blindness and a shortened life span. Only a cure will assure his health. So, we ask you to work with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and us, to fund research for a cure.

JDRF is the only major diabetes organization focused exclusively on research. It is the number one nonprofit source of finding for diabetes research in the world. Eighty-five percent (85%) of every dollar you contribute will go directly to research and education. Now more then ever, we are within walking to distance of a cure. JDRF- funded research has resulted in tremendous strides towards the cure including the Edmonton Protocol (successful transplant of islet cells in humans). As encouraging as these results are the finish line remains out of reach unless we can overcome two very important obstacles: transplantation without immunosuppressive drugs and creating an alternative supply of islet cells through stem cell research. Surely, with friends and family supporters like you to champion the cause, we will reach the finish line and win this battle, so please collect pledges and walk with us, or donate whatever you can!

October 12, 2003
        Monmouth County Walk to Cure Diabetes at Avon-By-The-Sea Boardwalk

On behalf of Jay and all the other kids and adults with diabetes, we thank you for helping to make our dream of winning this race a reality!

Love, Jon, Holly, Becky and Jay Schwartz

Walker Pre-Registration Form.
Donations are tax deductible. Complete & turn in before the Walk.
Or register online at: www.jdrf.org

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PASTOR'S CORNER
By Rev. Dr. George Hancock-Stefan
Central Baptist Church
Atlantic Highlands, NJ

cbcbeacon@aol.com

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PREACH THE WORD

The first church that I served right out of seminary was the First Baptist Church of Hightstown, N.J. Every Sunday as we would leave our offices and go to preach, we would pass the picture of O. P. Eaches. Many times I would say to the Senior Ministers: “What would OP think of our sermons today?” For in his days O.P. Eaches was a giant – he traveled extensively in New Jersey and Pennsylvania preaching the Word of God. He was interested in education and was influential in starting a school for girls in Philadelphia and Peddie School in Hightstown. Yet for all the traveling that he did, he stayed as a pastor in one church for 40 years. He believed firmly the academic motto “as the university goes, so does the country”, but he transformed it into “as the church goes, so does the country.” He believed and lived the transforming power of the Word of God.

Then after close to ten years of working in a missionary society in the Midwest, I came to another historic church. At Central Baptist Church I am the 16th Pastor. This church has had many ministers who distinguished themselves here at Central Baptist Church and in other places. The second pastor, Rev. William Shermer, was a chaplain in the American Civil War. The 11th pastor, William R. Schillinger, distinguished himself as a chaplain during World War II. Rev. Eugene Richard Shearer, the 12th pastor, became the president of Alderson-Broadus College, while Rev. Howard Erwin became a professor of Old Testament. The 15th pastorate of Central Baptist Church was shared by a couple – Robert and Wendy Zoba. After serving here for 5 years they went as missionaries in Honduras. Upon returning to the United States, Bob took another pastorate, while Wendy became the associate editor of Christianity Today, the leading journal of evangelicals in the USA.

Among the 16 pastors that served here, many had the gift of evangelism such as Frank Colby, the first pastor and Ralph Carr, the 9th pastor who traveled throughout the United States and preached the Gospel to thousands. There was Martin Brynildsen who was known for his pulpit eloquence and whose eloquence was seen in one of his sons who became a famous judge in Northern Jersey.

Yet, no one has influenced this church and the surrounding community as much as Pastor Harry Kraft did. He preached in season and out of season for 35 years. He did not have a seminary education and he came here when many people had given up on Central Baptist Church. For 36 years he preached the Word of God. Many people who were here during the pastorate of Rev. Kraft cannot remember too many sermons that he preached, but all of them testify that they came here because this was a place where they were always loved. He was also called “God’s angel” by many people in this community for the fact that many times when they were in need, God sent Pastor Kraft to help them, or they would see him at their door leaving something for them. He preached not only with words, but with deeds.

When I came here, I did a funeral service and I rode in the hearse. This was my first funeral in town and I introduced myself to the hearse driver. When he heard that I was from Central Baptist Church, he told me that every time that Pastor Kraft rode with him to the cemetery he wanted to make sure that he was saved because one day his turn would come when he would ride for the last time, but there would be a different driver. Wherever Pastor Kraft went he would speak for the Lord Jesus Christ and then he would pray and bless the people that he visited and met. What a heritage! What a tradition!

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BODY POLITIC
by Jack Archibald,
Atlantic Highlands 
Councilman
 

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jack@ahherald.com

----PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT----

CAMPAIGN BASED ON PERFORMANCE

As most readers and residents know, this columnist is the Republican candidate for the office of Mayor in our borough.  (There, full disclosure once again for those loyal readers that remember the events of last May) Over the next few weeks, voters will have to make a decision on which party to support, and this writer faces the challenge of commentating on a race that could be defined by my performance.

Using the column to get my message out is not an unfair advantage, particularly now that the publisher of the Herald has insisted that the GOP pay for this space until election.  For starters, these columns date back to August 2000, long before anyone knew that I would be a Mayoral candidate three years later.  Furthermore, out of respect to the Herald readers and their desire for real insight, I have not responded to the weekly attacks on my character from the leader of the Democrat party in another Bayshore newspaper since early spring.    

In the coming weeks, this column will focus on my qualifications for the office and my vision for our future. The readers deserve to review my qualifications, my accomplishments, my running mates, and our ideas for the future.  Our Republican administration and guardianship of the borough over the past several years is a legitimate campaign issue, and one that we point to with pride.  At the same time, the voters should review the Democrat candidates, and measure their civic contributions to Atlantic Highlands during that same period.

My campaign will be based on honesty and facts, no different than any of my previous runs.  It’s a safe bet that our opponents will try to take every side of each issue, criticizing past policy while proclaiming their commitment to the same ideals.  The people of Atlantic Highlands deserve an honest discussion of the facts, not distortions of the truth.  My campaign literature will be written and approved by my team, not by a handler who has no regard for a resident’s hard earned reputation.  I have proven that I can run an honest and factual campaign, but it remains to be seen if the opposition can.   

Paid for by the AHGOP Campaign Committee

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LEMONADE STAND
By Carol Barbieri

carolbarbieri.com

 

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carol@ahherald.com

IS ARNOLD ON A ROLL OR IS IT JUST ANOTHER ROLE?

When I first heard that Arnold Schwarzenegger was going to run for governor of California, I felt pretty much the way I did when I first heard that Ronald Reagan was running for governor of California; I thought that people of California must be spending a few too many hours out in the sun. 

What made them think that Ronald Reagan would make a good governor?  He could barely hold his own as an actor (and someone else was writing the lines for him).  Even though I had my doubts that Reagan could hold his own as a politician, I had absolutely no doubt that he would win.  Why?  Because I knew that the people of California weren’t going to vote for Reagan the Man, they were going to vote for Reagan the Actor.

How could they not?  Even if it’s on a subconscious level, it’s almost impossible to separate the two men.  And if it was impossible to do it with Ronald Reagan, it’s even more impossible to do it with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Didn’t you, even for an instant, picture Arnold in his Terminator garb when you first heard the news that he was running for governor? 

Did you, even for a millisecond, think to yourself, “Now there’s a man who can get things done around here?” 

Did you wish (secretly, in your heart, of course) that Arnold was running for governor of New Jersey? 

I know I did.  And I would have voted him, too.

Why?  Because I would not have been able to control myself.  Because, when I try to imagine what Arnold is like off the screen, I don’t picture him being married to Maria Shriver, News Correspondent.  I imagine him being married to Xena, Warrior Princess.  I don’t picture Arnold patiently urging his four children to eat their vegetables.  I see him holding a machine gun to their heads and screaming, “eat that broccoli or die!”

I can see Arnold in my mind’s eye holding members of the California Legislature hostage, until they see it his way.  I can almost smell the gunpowder as he shoots his way out of a budget meeting saying, “Ill be back!”  I can even conjure up a vision of him in the White House actually in charge of a war.  What country in its right mind would even think of messing with the United States, if Arnold Schwarzenegger was President?  Am I wrong?

That’s exactly the kind of thinking that we have to be careful of, whenever we’re considering electing a celebrity to public office.  We have to attempt, to the best of our ability, to completely erase everything we know about the celebrity that has influenced us in the past.  We have to strip him completely naked (and, in Arnold’s case, get rid of the weapons) and try to see the man as he really is.  That’s a difficult thing to do.

When you get right down to it, the people of California have chosen for their governor, a bodybuilder, who has only been a citizen of the United States since 1984, who still has a difficult time speaking the English language, and who has absolutely no experience for the job of governor.  They have put their trust in an Austrian-born actor, whose father was once a member of the Nazi party and who is was just accused of groping sixteen women. 

But the people of California have also elected a man who has proven that he can achieve his personal and professional goals, no matter how difficult the challenge.  Making it as an actor in a foreign country, earning a college degree in a second language, and winning the titles of Mr. Europe, Mr. World, Mr. Olympia, and Mr. Universe are goals that are way beyond the reach of the average man.

They have chosen a man who has shown his love for humanity by receiving the Simon Wiesenthal Center “Humanity Prize” for his efforts in increasing Holocaust awareness.

They have voted for a man who was named chairman of President George Bush’s Council on Physical Fitness and has spent years promoting the Special Olympics.

With all of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s accomplishments, I still think he owes a huge debt to Ronald Reagan.  I don’t think he would have stood a chance of being elected governor, if Ronald hadn’t paved the way for him, having also walked on the pavement of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

I also think Arnold owes a huge debt to his movie agent.  How many of those California voters would have elected him, if the only movie Arnold had ever starred in was Kindergarten Cop?

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WINDOWS ON RED BANK
by Daniel Murphy, Jr.
Danny's Steak House

daniel@ahherald.com

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DIABETES, DIET AND WORKING OUT

Just last week I wrote about a wonderful very senior gentleman that getting old in body but was still strong in mind. He was tall and thin and I can always remember him being fit. On the news today was a story that one out of three Americans born this year will have diabetes in their life time. It went on to say that a thousand people a day die of this disease and that a primary cause is due to being overweight and having a poor diet without any physical exercise. The disease usually takes 10 to 15 years off your life. I guess it is time to change our eating habits and get to a gym.

These are excerpts I wrote in the AHHerald on April 10, 2002,:

"If you don't have your health you don't have anything." Working out and keeping fit at any age is mandatory if you want to lead a healthy long life. At my age I don't know how long it will be but however long it is I will be fit. The other advantage of having a work out program in your life is the mental and physical edge it gives you. Stress is relieved; your ability to have endurance for your job, your family, your social and of course your sex life is enhanced. Check out the health clubs and gyms nearest you, it should be close by. If you find one that suits your needs join it for a short time test and start slowly. You will feel great, look better and have better endurance even when getting hammered by work, life and loved ones….Hey..it happens!”

“A number of wellness centers have developed over the past couple of years. Each having a different personality, one might contain a compilation of yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy and various healing arts. “

“Sixty percent of American teenagers are clinically overweight which contributes to heart attacks, strokes and diabetes as well as lowering their immune systems as they grow older. They are the forth generation of fast foot eaters.”

The bottom line to the above is it is time to get yourself and your family physically fit. Forget the junk stuff on TV. Thigh Master, Rubber pulleys, stomach crunchers and fad diets. Look into one of the many gyms and health clubs in the area. Find one that is close to you and has a good reputation. Join it and start exercising slowly, learn from the instructors and get you body back. The second thing is to take a good look at your diet. Cut out fast foods, you already know what to eat and what is healthy. It is time to save your life. It will add years to your life and give you a much better quality of life.

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GORDON BISHOP ON THE ISSUES

by Gordon Bishop
Syndicated Columnist
gordon@ahherald.com

 

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‘LIBERALISM’ IS DESTROYING AMERICA -
AMERICANS MUST NOW DESTROY ‘LIBERALISM’

California voters made political history October 7 by electing superstar body-builder and immigrant Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Governor of the Golden State, the most populous state in the nation.

California has always been a leader in political trends, starting with a tax revolt many years ago over property taxes. As some pundits say, As California goes, so goes the nation.

Schwarzenegger’s victory is an ominous sign for ‘liberalism,” which represents more government, more taxes, more give-away “entitlements” and lots of lies, deception and downright mean-spirited nastiness.

Look what the super-liberal Los Angeles Times did to “The Terminator” just a few days before the election. This Marxist propaganda machine dug up more dirt on Arnold that had nothing to do with the issues the voters wanted to address: Taxes, Jobs, Immigration and Health Care.

The pathetic Times tried to destroy Schwarzenegger with undocumented sexual harassment charges going back 30 years. Not one of these women ever filed formal charges against the movie star. So much for irresponsible slander.

Schwarzenegger candidly admitted he behaved badly on some of the sets of the Hollywood hit movies in which he was the superstar. That’s the way it is in Tinsel Town, which functions in its own weird world.

Schwarzenegger is a die-hard “fiscal conservative.” As an immigrant who has amassed a fortune of more than $200 million, Arnold has a keen sense of business and making the right financial decisions in his incredible life that has become the American Dream success story!

Now, the Governor-elect must apply those same business and financial skills to California’s debt-ridden government. He’ll have more than enough help from the world’s richest individual, Warren Buffet, his chief financial adviser.

The biggest challenge Schwarzenegger faces is not California’s unprecedented debt of more than $35 billion. It’s battling the liberal Democrats in the State Legislature, which helped outgoing Governor Gray Davis push the state to the brink of bankruptcy.

By winning the election by a landslide, Schwarzenegger enters the Governor’s Office with the strong support of the voters and taxpayers and California’s business community. That’s a huge constituency that can rally behind the new Governor to make change efficiently and effectively.

If California’s liberal legislators attempt to block the new Chief Executive’s initiatives to reform a tax-and-spend state government, then Schwarzenegger can call on his faithful followers to demonstrate and protest from San Diego to the San Francisco to lower taxes and spending to balance the budget.

The California Establishment is made up of liberal politicians, liberal educators, liberal media and liberal Hollywood. That’s a monstrous task, even for a mighty superstar known throughout the world.

With the devastating loss of Gray Davis, who was also rejected by many in his own party, maybe now Bill Clinton will slink off the political stage and spend the rest of his self-destructive life in the shadows of his past misdeeds.

Clinton came to California with all the political hoopla of the so-called “Comeback Kid” as Gray Davis’ “powerful” adviser.

So much for Clinton and his vicious cronies who will do everything they can to destroy a Republican candidate for high office.

Clinton and the liberals lost.

Schwarzenegger and his fiscally conservative Republicans, along with many Democrats and Independents, won by a massive landslide.

It doesn’t get any better than that, especially in California, where the state’s Governor is a recognized international leader. If California were a sovereign nation, it would be the world’s fifth largest economy.

Now, let the games begin.

(Gordon Bishop, a national award-winning author, historian and syndicated columnist, is New Jersey’s first “Journalist-of-the-Year” – 1986/New Jersey Press Association.)

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AT LARGE
by Woody Zimmerman

woody@ahherald.com

 
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REPORT FROM THE DIRTY POLITICS FRONT

Zarindi fingered for Davis fiasco in California

(Reprinted from the WASHINGTON SCIMITAR, 9-30-03)

Sacramento, California. September 30. Zarindi – that shadowy political operative of yore – made headlines again, yesterday, when former President Bill Clinton, campaigning against the recall of Governor Gray Davis, accused his old political nemesis of sabotaging the Davis administration.

Referring in passing to the mismanaged 2000 electric power crisis, the $100 billion budget that is $38 billion in the red, and Mr. Davis’s controversial decision to let illegal aliens obtain driving licenses, Mr. Clinton suggested that the legendary dirty-trickster must be causing Davis Administration woes.

“This has to be Zarindi’s work,” he said. “Nobody could [mess] up this badly without having a mole inside, fashioning these crazy policies. I mean, they’re stinkin’ up the joint here–“

Mr. Clinton then broke off, as he realized a live microphone was broadcasting his frank, unguarded comments about Mr. Davis. “See what I mean?” he quipped. “The guy is everywhere.”

During his presidency, Mr. Clinton’s advisors often blamed the elusive political operative for engineering bizarre incidents which produced damaging publicity. These included the mysterious discovery of Mrs. Clinton’s Whitewater papers in the White House, and the Secret Service arrest of a Chicago couple for speaking disrespectfully to Mr. Clinton about the deaths of U. S. servicemen. Both incidents received wide media coverage that embarrassed the Clinton administration.

Later, during the Monica Lewinsky scandal, officials suspected Zarindi of recording the much publicized conversations between Miss Lewinsky and her confidant, Linda Tripp. (Unnamed sources even suggested that Ms. Tripp actually was Zarindi, dressed in drag.)

Across the aisle, Republicans accused Zarindi of sabotaging the ’96 Dole presidential campaign. Senior aides say Zarindi, posing as an advisor to the candidate, recommended the “friendly undertaker” persona that Mr. Dole adopted for his campaign. The candidate was urged to act, speak, and deport himself in ways that identified him with that bloc of voters. (This was no problem for Mr. Dole, who was then 73.)

“He said the ‘geezer vote’ would decide the election. It seemed so plausible,” said an unidentified female Dole staffer, obviously near tears. “How were we to know he was a mole?”

According to insider accounts, Zarindi finally overstepped by proposing that Viagra commercials be the theme of the campaign, as well as a fund-raising vehicle. This was too much, even for the Dole campaign. His cover blown, Zarindi disappeared overnight from the Dole camp.

But the damage was done. During election-day exit polls, one young voter said Mr. Dole reminded him of an “elderly great-uncle whose suits always smelled of mothballs”. This was a typical response. Youthful, hip and energetic, by contrast, Mr. Clinton won handily in November ’96. Mr. Clinton was the clear choice of elderly voters as well.

Other political figures blamed their political problems on Zarindi, too. Washington Mayor Marion Barry claimed that a DC water-contamination scandal in the late ‘90s was actually Zarindi’s work. Officials said the trickster paid 10,000 Washington teenagers $5 each to contaminate the city’s reservoir by what they called a “primitive and disgusting” method.

In a memorable press conference, a Barry aide denounced the “$40,000 spent for this act of hydro-terror, masquerading as a youth summer-jobs program”. When a reporter pointed out that 10,000 times $5 was $50,000, not $40,000, the official exploded:

“$40,000? $50,000? What am I, here? An accountant? We’re talking about public health, not bean-counting! We’re gonna get that [expletive], and when we do, we’re gonna make him drink tap water until he explodes!”

Incensed by further questions, the aide upset the podium, hurled the Évian water carafe at the camera crew, and waded into the press corps wielding a packet of “Barry is Bad” bumper stickers. In the wild melee that followed, he lost one shoe and a sleeve of his jacket. Literally foaming at the mouth and shouting incoherently about tap water, summer jobs, and bodily fluids, he was finally restrained and assisted from the room. News footage of the incident provided weeks of material for late-night comics.

All this occurred just days after a press conference at which Mr. Barry dramatically chugged several glasses of tap water to assure residents that the city’s water supply was perfectly safe. He then disappeared from public view for two weeks. Spokesmen said he was “vacationing in the Berkshires”, and could not be reached. But pundits hinted he was being treated for “intestinal distress” at a celebrity detox facility.

Mr. Barry retired from DC politics after declining to run for re-election in 1998. Spokesmen will neither confirm nor deny persistent rumors that the mayor plans to run for Archbishop of Canterbury or Pope, as soon as one of the positions is open.

These high-profile incidents set the tone for many similar claims of Zarindi-disruptions throughout the late 1990s. The capstone was the 2001 White House vandalism scandal – officially blamed on Mr. Clinton’s outgoing staff, but unofficially suspected to be Zarindi’s work.

“His fingerprints were (figuratively) all over it,” said a FBI official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Could the Clinton staff really have done all this? We doubt it. They weren’t smart enough to know how to disconnect any wires. An inside operative had to be responsible.” Attempts to identify and find the elusive Zarindi seemed to point to a transvestite intern, but the leads proved false.

A claim that Zarindi orchestrated Inauguration Day protests along the presidential parade route was unconfirmed. Demonstrators said their activities were directed by “some guy wearing a sweatshirt and a baseball cap”, but inquiries failed to discover such a person. Secret Service experts thought it unlikely that anyone would wear a baseball cap in Washington, where kinte-caps are considered haute couture.

Zarindi has been glimpsed only a few times and has never knowingly been photographed. His description remains uncertain. Authorities continue to debate whether he is a man or an ugly woman.

The most sensational charge laid against Zarindi during the ‘90s was blame for the ubiquitous “Kilroy was here” graffiti – seen in every imaginable place, world-wide. The graffiti has been spotted on the north face of the 34th floor of a Singapore skyscraper, on Russian T-34 tanks near Minsk in 1944, and on  Confederate earthworks at Petersburg, Virginia, ca. 1864. Pilgrims who have seen the graffiti on the ceiling of a monastery, high in the Tibetan mountains, say resident monks were silent about how the inscription got there. (A spokesmonk made only incomprehensible comments about “a grasshopper”.)

International police officials have launched a crash effort to bring the vandal/political-trickster to justice for his crimes.

“Apprehending Zarindi is absolutely our top priority – higher than Osama or Saddam,” said one Interpol agent. “When we finally catch this guy, he’ll be cleaning graffiti for the next 500 years.”

Meanwhile, the Schwarzenegger and Davis camps traded new Zarindi-accusations in the wake of disclosures that a Nazi SS uniform was discovered in the Austrian-born actor’s campaign wardrobe. (A note in the breast pocket recommended its use for “ceremonial occasions”.)

“Ve don’t think it’s very funny,” said Mr. Schwarzenegger. “Zeh uniform vuss a very poor fit – very bad for my Hollyvood image. I varn Zarindi – ve haff vays uff dealing vith him…”

Davis aides scoffed at the “poor fit” complaint, suggesting that der grosse Arnold might have been hitting the Strudel und Lager too hard at Oktoberfest.

“The uniform was made to exact specifications by Herman Goering’s tailors,” said a Davis spokesman. “It was certainly a perfect fit. Perhaps der Sturmbannfuehrer confused the coat with the trousers…”

As the Recall campaign heads for its rendezvous with destiny, Zarindi remains At Large.

Stay tuned for breaking news.

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TRENTON TALK
by Assemblyman Steve Corodemus
(R) - 11th District

steve@ahherald.com

www.corodemus.com
Political Website

www.njleg.state.nj.us/html/corodem.htm
Legislative Website

 
 
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DON'T FALL PREY TO THE FLU

Now is the time of year in which many of us will wake up with a fever, sore throat, stuffy nose, and feeling generally miserable. Those unfortunate souls will go to the doctor only to be told they have fallen prey to this seasons silent enemy, the flu.  Influenza (the flu) is a contagious disease that is caused by the influenza virus, which attacks the respiratory tract in humans.

In the United States, the peak of flu season can occur anywhere from late December through March. The health impact of a flu season varies from year to year. Each flu season is unique, but it is estimated that approximately 10% to 20% of U.S. residents get the flu, and an average of 114,000 persons are hospitalized for flu-related complications. According to the Center for Disease Control approximately 36,000 Americans die on average per year from the complications of flu.

The flu is spread when a person who has the flu coughs, sneezes, or speaks and sends flu virus into the air, and other people inhale the virus. The virus enters the nose, throat, or lungs of a person and begins to multiply, causing symptoms of the flu. Flu may, less often, be spread when a person touches a surface that has flu viruses on it B a door handle, for instance B and then touches his or her nose or mouth. A person can spread the flu starting one day before they feel sick. Adults can continue to pass the flu virus to others for another 3-7 days after symptoms start. Children can pass the virus for longer than 7 days.

So, what's the best course of action during this season?   Many doctors believe the answer is the flu vaccine.  With the flu season under way, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged those who have not yet received a shot to do so. 

The vaccine is usually recommended for people at increased risk of complications from the flu, such as anyone 65 and older and younger people with chronic medical conditions, such as heart and lung disease and diabetes. In addition, anyone in contact with high-risk individuals ought to consider getting the vaccine.  October and November are considered the "optimal" months to receive the vaccine.  The Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey is organizing flu clinics in churches, community centers, supermarkets, and drugstores throughout Monmouth County.  For more information about a flu clinic near you call (732) 224-6723.  

Even with all of our best intentions some of us will fall victim to the virus this year.  Since the flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics (like penicillin) don't work to cure it.  So, if you are one of these unfortunate souls the best thing you can do is rest, drink plenty of fluids, avoid using alcohol and tobacco and take medication to relieve your symptoms. Think of this time as a sort of mini "vacation" and as a way to catch up on your daytime T.V.

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SPOTLIGHT ON KEANSBURG

by Patrick Pecora
Keansburg Councilman

   


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patrick@ahherald.com

OCTOBER EVENTS AND OTHER COUNCIL MEETING ACTION

There are two events that happen in our town during the month of October and it is unfortunate that both happen on the same day. Luckily, they are at different times one being a morning event and the other a late afternoon event. I would like to highlight those events separately here this week. The information for each has also been in the upcoming borough events section of this weekly article.

The first is the fall Clean Ocean Action Beach sweeps. This is a volunteer event and items removed from the beach are catalogued for entry into a database. This is a rain or shine event and it will be held on Saturday October 25 at 9 AM. Volunteers are asked to meet in the large borough parking lot at the foot of Oakwood on Beachway.

The second event of the day will be our towns fourth annual Halloween Monster Bash. As usual, the event will be held on Beachway near the intersection with Raritan Avenue. The plans include at this point the hayride and other events. In addition, each child who attends will at least receive a small goody bag. The rain date will be Sunday October 26 with the time and place to remain the same.

At the council meeting this past Thursday 3 introduction of three ordinances for bonds were placed on hold until the meeting on Thursday 10/9 at 5:30 PM. The ordinances were number 1346 that is the ordinance for the Waterfront pedestrian and bicycle corridor. The other two were ordinance number 1347 for the reconstruction of Raritan Avenue and ordinance number 1348 for the reconstruction of Laurel Avenue. The borough contribution for one of the three projects will be just over 50%, the other two are funded by the state for over 75% of the total costs of the projects.

Upcoming Council meetings.

In October there are two regularly scheduled meetings of the Keansburg Borough Council the first meeting will be on Thursday 10/9 at 5:30 PM and the second is scheduled for Thursday 10/23 at 7 PM.

Upcoming Borough Events.

New Point Comfort Annual Dinner and Dance - On Saturday October 18 from 7 PM to Midnight New Point Comfort Fire Company will host their Annual Dinner and Dance. The event will feature music provide by Chailo 6 Piece Band. The event will provide your Dinner, Beer, Soda and Coffee you can also bring your own bottle. Ticket Price is $20.00 and tickets are available from any New Point Comfort Fireman. Prizes will also be awarded: The door prize will be a Big Screen TV; the grand prizes will be $500.00, $200.00, $100.00 and $50.00. In addition, 10 weekly prizes of $50.00 each will be awarded.

Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweep - Keansburg will participate in the fall Clean Ocean Action Beach sweeps. This is a volunteer event and items removed from the beach are catalogued for entry into a database. This is a rain or shine event and it will be held on Saturday October 25 at 9 AM. Volunteers are asked to meet in the large borough parking lot at the foot of Oakwood on Beachway.

Halloween Monster Bash - On Saturday October 25 with registration beginning at 4 PM our town will host the annual Halloween Monster Bash. As usual, the event will be held on Beachway near the intersection with Raritan Avenue. The plans include at this point the hayride and other events. In addition, each child who attends will at least receive a small goody bag. The rain date will be Sunday October 26 with the time and place to remain the same.

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PHYSICIAN'S FORUM

Alan Zaccaria, MD, FACS
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon,
President, Monmouth County Medical Society
Chief, Plastic Surgery, Jersey Shore Medical Center

www.plasticsurgery_zaccaria.yourmd.com

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alanz@ahherald.com

JERSEY SHORE MEDICAL CENTER KICK-OFF RALLY IS A SUCCESS

The kick-off rally for "Operation House Call" was held at Jersey Shore University Medical Center on October 7, 2003. The rally was attended by over 400 physicians, staff members, and concerned citizens. Rally coordinator, Dr. Alan Zaccaria, president of the Monmouth County Medical Society, opened the event with a speech about changing the make-up of the New Jersey State Assembly to one that is more physician friendly, in order to finally achieve effective tort reform for medical malpractice claims. This was the dominating theme, as the goal of "Operation House Call" is to remove the political power from the lawyer-friendly democrats, replacing them with key doctor-friendly republican candidates.

Bus loads of doctors came from Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex Counties, as well as Bergen County, led by Dr. John Poole from Holy Name Hospital. Many excellent speakers were present, including Senator John Bennett (Senate Co-President), Senator Joseph Kyrillos, Senator Gerald Cardinale, Assemblymen Eric Munoz, Herb Conaway, "Doc" Arnone, and Joe Azzolina. Physician leaders included Dr. Robert Rigolosi and Anthony Caggiano (past presidents of MSNJ), Dr. Ruth Schulze, Dr. Steve Berkowitz, Dr. Michael Richardson, Dr. Steve Reich, Dr. Rick Scott, Dr. Frank Kelly, Dr. Ronald Bochner and several others, who all gave passionate speeches about the purpose of the rally and "Operation House Call". The goal being to go "door to door" in key legislative districts to promote certain Republican candidates who have pledged their support for the New Jersey physicians. For the Monmouth and Ocean County doctors, the Republican candidates that are being supported are William Baroni and Sidna Mitchell, both running for a seat in the Assembly in the 14th district. Both of the candidates were given the opportunity to address the crowd, and were very well received.

Pictured left to right, Alan Zaccaria, MD, President, Monmouth County Medical Society and Rally Coordinator, Senator John O. Bennett, Senate Co-President, and Steve Berkowitz, MD, executive committee member, Monmouth County Medical Society

Following the rally, the physicians began their "door to door" campaign. The doctors met at Steinert High School, in Hamilton Township, and were sent out in groups of two, armed with campaign literature, to begin knocking on doors. They found that most of the people were interested and concerned, and listened to what the doctors had to say about the importance of tort reform and saving medicine in New Jersey. Some lucky callers were even treated to candy, or home-made chocolate chip cookies. Although it was a good start, much more work needs to be done over the next several weeks. The success of the campaign will be determined on voting day in November, when the balance of power in the New Jersey State Assembly will shift, and the physicians will be able to rest easy--knowing that their efforts to preserve medicine and quality health care in New Jersey finally paid off.

Alan Zaccaria, MD, FACS
180 White Road, Suite 102
Little Silver, NJ 07739
(732) 530-8565

Email- Aldozac@netzero.net
Website- www.plasticsurgery_zaccaria.yourmd.com

../physicians_forum/2003/pf031009_jsmc_rally.htm
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
 by Mark R. Vogel

Contact : mark@ahherald.com

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GET THE POINT?

A knife is to a chef as a scalpel is to a surgeon.  They both have a myriad of other tools, but their blade is their primary instrument.  You can get away with that cheap peeler, and you certainly don’t need a spoon rest, but a good knife is indispensable.  If you’re like most people, you have one larger knife for most cutting chores, maybe from a set, that’s been in your drawer for years banging its edge against your other gizmos.  All it’s good for is a prop in some B horror film.

The first and foremost thing a knife should be is sharp. Higher quality knives achieve and maintain a superior edge.  A sharp knife cuts food easier, quicker, neater, and with less chance of injury.  A dull knife is more resistant to piercing food, and thus, is more likely to slide sideways and cut the hand holding the food. 

Carbon steel knives (a mixture of iron and carbon), are the sharpest but vulnerable to corrosion and discoloration.  They just don’t last.  Most professional grade knives are high-carbon stainless steel, (a conglomeration of other metals with the iron and carbon).  They don’t rust or deteriorate.  You sacrifice a little bit of sharpness for indefinite durability.  It is a good compromise. 

Construction is also important.  Better quality knives are forged, i.e., the metal is heated to thousands of degrees, placed in a mold and hammered into shape.  This process increases the strength and resiliency of the steel.  You can recognize such a knife because it has a full tang, which means the steel extends from the point all the way to the end of the handle.  It is heftier, durable, and has a better balance.  A forged, full tang knife, if properly cared for, can last a lifetime.  Cheaper knives are stamped or die-cut and only have a partial tang, whereby the steel only partially extends into the handle. Worse yet, they are sometimes imbedded in those shoddy plastic handles that will inevitably become loose.  Finally, always choose a knife that feels comfortable in your hand.

Some chefs avow that he best way to sharpen a knife is via a professional knife sharpening service.  They have the equipment and the expertise to regrind the edge to a pristine condition.  Others disagree claiming that their grinding procedures will degrade the blade over time.  They assert that the procedure of choice is to sharpen it yourself on a sharpening stone.  Forget all the crazy sharpening gadgets on the market.  Most of them are ineffective. 

To use a stone you must lubricate it with either mineral oil or water.  Whichever you choose you must stick with it.  Switching between mediums will damage the stone.  Lubricate the stone with oil or submerge it in water for a few minutes and then repeatedly run each side of the blade from the heel to the tip across the length of the stone.  The trick here is that the knife must be consistently held at a 22-degree angle.  Varying the angle at which you hold the knife will thwart the sharpening process.  Obviously this a skill that takes time and practice to master.  The number of strokes necessary will depend on the knife’s dullness.

Every time before preparing food, you should run the knife a few times across a sharpening steel on each side at the same 22 degree angle.  Sharpening steels do not sharpen, they hone.  Remember playing with paper airplanes as a kid?  You’d throw it across the room and bounce it off the wall.  The nose of the plane, although still pointy, was then crooked. You had to straighten it with your fingers for the next flight.  This is what happens with your knife.  Even one use can cause the edge to angle to one side or the other.  A steel re-straightens the edge.  Finally, store your knife in a block, on a magnetic strip, or any contraption that protects the edge, and always wash it by hand.  The heat of a dishwasher can damage the handle over time, not to mention the possibility of other items banging into the edge of the knife.

Professional chefs and more serious cooks will possess an array of knives for various tasks.  At the very least you should have a standard chef’s knife and a paring knife.  A high quality 8-10 inch chef’s knife, from a reputable manufacturer like Wusthof or Henckel will cost you anywhere from $70 to $100.  It is a worthwhile investment, even for the home cook.  The paring knife will run you $20 to $30.  Avoid knife sets.  They may seem like a good deal but even the top brands make cheaper knives and that’s usually what’s in the set. 

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JOBPATH
by Caroline Ceniza-Levine
caroline@ahherald.com
www.thinkasinc.com
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Series on Change 2003 (Part 2)

CHANGING YOUR SPACE

Clutter hurts productivity.  Insufficient lighting hinders visibility.  Improper seating may lead to back pain and other health problems.  The wrong environment is an energy drain.  On the other hand, an organized, brightly lit, ergonomic and beautiful workspace practically invites you to work hard.  Do not underestimate the value of the proper workspace.  If you find yourself losing motivation on that project, don’t change gears just yet.  First, change your space:

Make it functional.  Invest in the right desk, chair, computer and office equipment.  Have frequently used supplies (pens, correction fluid, printer paper, postage) in large quantities and readily available.  Keep personal reading on hand, so when you’re too busy to leave your desk for long intervals, you can at least give your mind a break.  Don’t forget a pitcher and large glass to ensure you’re getting enough water throughout the day.

Make it organized.  Invest time in developing a filing system that works for you.  Create easily understandable folders and subfolders for computer files.  For paper files, note that binders can handle more paper than folders and are handy for storing all materials from one project or client.

Make it pleasing to your senses.  This may mean fresh flowers, a scented jelly jar, pictures, posters, mirrors, interesting lamps or simply an uncluttered desk.  A bowl of candy or fun toys invite co-workers to visit and encourages networking.  If you find it gets too distracting, break out the candy only every few weeks.

Make it complete:  a spare umbrella; extra cleanser, lotion, lip balm, toothbrush, and toothpaste for mid-day pick-me-ups; a stocked gym bag for opportunistic trips to the gym; a neutral jacket for surprise business meetings; extra shoes; extra stockings/socks; extra bags (even shopping bags for carrying home unexpected lunch purchases or gifts); healthy snacks that can double for breakfast.

Caroline Ceniza-Levine, head of career consultancy CL Search Services, is also an adjunct professor of Professional Development at Columbia University and a career/life coach.  Caroline can be reached at 212-502-8593 or at her website at www.thinkasinc.com.

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SENIOR SAVVY
by Bernice Roberts
email -
bernice@ahherald.com
   


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THE AWESOME GOOGLE

Google searches 3 billion pages for anything you ask for. Google began as recently as 1995, as the Stanford University graduate project of two young students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin. Google may be the largest computing system in the world. Google's name is derived from the term, Googol, which represents 1 plus 100 zeros. Awesome!

How does Google's method of sorting results put this search engine in the forefront of all others? The answer is called Page Rank. That means Google lists Web sites in order of both importance and popularity.

This is a big indicator of how many Web sites link to it. Awesome!

Of major importance to readers of "The Atlantic Highlands Herald" is that Google sorts the Web in the most useful way possible for its users. And guess what? Google lists www.ahherald.com material in more places than we would ever have imagined while the material often holds the highest page ranking, for example, 1st out of 700 additional listings. Allan Dean's methods of electronic publishing must be a match for the word "phenomenal." How about Awesome?

Why not go there now for a search? www.google.com  Awesome!

More....

ARNOLD ADMITS SCHWARZENGROPING OLD LADY

Long ago in Germany, Arnold Schwarzengrabber explained to his trainer that groping is what you do in Germany when you want to show off your big muscles. But just then Ilsa, formerly the She-Wolf of the SS Troops, adjusted her uniform and shrieked, "Nein, das ist verboten! Arnold! You Pumper-Nickel!"

Arnold was both puzzled and offended that Ilsa did not respect him for his musculature. He gave a clarifying reply, "Nein, Ilsa, Ich nicht bin ein Pumper-Nickel, Ich bin ein Pumper-Iron!" With that Ilsa swatted him soundly with her sturdy twisted horsehair and leather baton. Arnold wisely did not try to grope Ilsa again. Besides he knew that any dalliance with a Nazi would be a lose-lose proposition if he should ever put out any feelers for public office.

Arnold waited until he got to America where the women were less martial, carried only little aluminum batons with pom-poms and didn't know a Pumper-Nickel from a Pumper-Iron. American women, however, not unlike Ilsa, took offense at the crudeness of his approach in groping for attention.

What to do? Arnold, quite bewildered, ranted, "With all of this testosterone running around unclaimed in my big muscles, I could just scream! I know what I'll do! I'll meet Maria. All TV Investigative Reporters have lots of testosterone too. Together we can grope for the governor's seat in California."

Then Governor Grayish Dervish became just as famous for his ashtray hurling arm as he was for his taxes, and his secretary said the whole thing started when a poltergeist took aim at her. (Everyone in the Grayish office began blaming a German of one sort or another for everything that was happening.) This same poltergeist is said to have hatched the whole "recall" affair. Next thing you know, Arnie, Gary Coleman, Cruz Bustamante, Pollynna Puffington and Fred Astaire got on the ballot along with a zillion other people.

Lots of women came forward to say Arnold had groped them. Ilsa, the She-Wolf, who is an old lady now, came forward announcing that she still carries a baton. That seemed to have struck fear in the heart of the Schwarzengroper like no other groping claim had. Even the psychologist who later claimed to have been groped about the knees and ankles, and perhaps her shoes . . . even she, seems to have held no terror for Arnie more than the awful dread he couldn't hide when Ilsa and her baton arrived from Germany.

Pollyanna Puffington was one of the few women who did not board the grope-train. Likely the grope happened off-camera and no one was able to identify her scream. Pollyanna has the unique ability to talk (or scream) from out of every one of her limbs and organs while continuing to babble incessantly through her mouth. This is what makes Pollyanna the darling of TV and radio. People love her for her adorable "Gabor" accent and her multiple ubiquitous voiceovers. It's a Hungarian trait.

../senior/2003/ss031009_awesome_google.htm
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NO BULL FISHING REPORT
by Jay Cosgrove
of Bahr's Landing Marina and Restaurant
Highlands, NJ 

jay@ahherald.com
http://www.bahrs.com

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REPORTS OF RIVER, BAY AND OCEAN FISHING

 

../fish_report/2003/nb_031002.htm
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OLD OAK TRAIL
by Joe Reynolds
AH Environmental Commission Member

joe@ahherald.com

 
mini-autobiography

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CELEBRATE NATURE IN ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS ON OCTOBER 12TH

Between the steel and asphalt village of New York City and the multitude of cars and people in Middletown Township dwells the charming 1.2 square mile coastal community of Atlantic Highlands. I use the phrase coastal community, because our town is located on the shores of the beautiful Sandy Hook Bay and is also located not far (within an hour walking distance) from the far-reaching Atlantic Ocean.

People love to reside near water. Just look at the current high real estate values in Atlantic Highlands. They in part indicate that people want to live as near to the water as possible. Indeed, the average selling price of a house along my street on Highland Avenue is well over $400,000 and in many cases these buildings do not even include a water view.

Yet, it makes little difference to someone from New York City or elsewhere who wants to purchase a home in Atlantic Highlands. Many people wish to resettle in our small town every year.

I often wonder, however, what do a majority of these new residents in Atlantic Highlands really know about their brand new estuarine home?

Probably for the average new resident in Atlantic Highlands not much. For example, did you know that our wetlands provide essential shelter and food to many juvenile fish so they can mature and be healthy, productive adults? In addition, did you know that our sandy beaches provide important nesting sites for a diversity of sea birds?

Do you wish to know more and at the same time have fun along the shores of Sandy Hook Bay? Then join the people of Atlantic Highlands on Sunday, October 9th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm as we celebrate our environment. All ages are invited to enjoy a day at the beach in Atlantic Highlands.

The day will help to educate and inform people (both new and life long residents) about their local seashore environment. Emphasis will be put on the preservation of coastal habitat from new development.

Events will start to take place at the Avenue A Beach in Atlantic Highlands. The day commences with a Clean Ocean Action beach clean up at 10am. Other events include American Littoral Society fish tagging demonstrations and seining, as well as music, refreshments, and volleyball on the beach.

In addition, beginning at 1:00 pm, guided kayak eco-tours led by Paul Eidman of Reel Therapy will explore the mouth of Many Mind Creek, the salt marsh, and important fish habitat in Sandy Hook Bay. This will be a 1.2 mile relaxed course for participants of all levels. Kayaks will be provided, but participants are invited to bring their own kayak or canoe. All ages are invited, but anyone under 17 years old participating in this particular event must be accompanied by an adult.

The NY/NJ Baykeeper, the Atlantic Highlands Environmental and Harbor Commissions, and the Lenape Woods Coalition are jointly hosting the celebration that honors the environment of Atlantic Highlands. A major co-sponsor of the event is Seastreak Ferry.

Please note that events will be cancelled if the weather is uncooperative. For further information visit ../lenape or contact royce.assoc@verizon.net or call 732-291-3556.

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LEND - A - HAND
Volunteer Center of Monmouth County
(732) 728-1927

The Volunteer Center of Monmouth County, (732) 728-1927, offers hundreds of unique volunteer opportunities.  The Center is now located at 1900 Highway 35, Oakhurst, NJ, and is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

See Volunteer Opportunities
../lend_a_hand/index.html


LEAFNOTES
by Charles Deitz

charles@ahherald.com

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OK, fellow readers. How many times have we read a book and then been disappointed by the movie? Would “all the time” be a fair average? I think it is a problem in translating from one media to another. Combine that with the possible conflict of vision between the author, the playwright, and the director and you could have quite a stew. For example, look at the basic theme in “Under the Tuscan Sun”. In the book, Frances Mayes traveled and settled down with Ed. In the movie, she was alone. That’s a pretty important change, isn’t it?

So what am I getting at? We have an opportunity to do it again.

The story is called Mystic River. It was written by Dennis Lahane. Before becoming a full-time writer, Mr. Lehane worked as a counselor for mentally handicapped and abused children, waited tables, parked cars, drove limos, worked in bookstores, and loaded tractor-trailers. Pretty much a blue-collar guy. Put an emphasis on the abused children part.

The way he writes about the world would remind you of Richard Price (Samaritan), except Lahane swaps New Jersey for Boston’s middle-class suburbs. His first five books were detective novels. Good ones, I understand. They told the story of Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro, two young, smart-mouthed Boston PIs

1. A Drink Before the War (1994) winner of the Shamus Award
2. Darkness, Take My Hand (1996) an authentic view of the Boston suburb of Dorchester
3. Sacred (1997) a dark and dangerous updating of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep
4. Gone, Baby, Gone (1998) absolutely gripping story of the inevitability of life and the beauty of art.
5. Prayers for Rain (1999) compelling, scary, and hard-to-put down

Kenzie and Gennaro. haven’t been seen for a few years. However, Lahane stayed in the blue-collar Boston suburbs when he wrote the book this column is about. Maybe he was just warming up for it.

Mystic River by Dennis Lahane
Publisher: William Morrow; (January 30, 2001)
ISBN: 0688163165

Quick review
Dave, Sean, and Jimmy played together as kids. One day, a couple of plainclothes cops stopped the boys in the street and took Dave away. Except they weren’t cops and Dave was gone for four days. When Dave came back, he was changed. And he never fully explained what happened to him.

Now it is 25 years later. Sean is a cop, Jimmy owns a store (and a few mob connections) and Dave is haunted by demons. Sean is investigating the murder of Jimmy’s daughter Katie. Jimmy is trying to give Sean the time he needs to pursue justice. Otherwise, Jimmy will do it on his own through less acceptable means.

Lahane shows us the threads that weave us all together. This is a terrific story. Mystic River was a finalist for the PEN/Winship Award and won both the Anthony Award and the Barry Award for Best Novel as well as the MASSACHUSETTS BOOK AWARD IN FICTION given by the Massachusetts Center for the Book.

Enter Clint Eastwood.

His last masterpiece, Unforgiven, languished as a forgotten script on the dusty shelves of Hollywood for almost twenty years. Finally a studio let its rights expire. Eastwood was able to pick it up and put it on film. I think he got four Oscars for Unforgiven. The man has the instinct.

Mystic River did not have to wait so long. Eastwood found it, bought the rights, and put together a team. Clint Eastwood filmed MYSTIC RIVER in Boston in October 2002. The cast includes Sean Penn as Jimmy, Kevin Bacon as Sean and Tim Robbins as Dave.

This is an excellent opportunity to compare a very good book to its screen adaptation.. All the parts are there – Lahane the author, Brian Helgeland ("L.A. Confidential") the screenwriter, Eastwood, Penn, Bacon and Robbins.

I am writing this on Wednesday afternoon. CNN just published their on-line review of Mystic River . Highlights are “deep, moving, great performances”

So get down to the book store. Pick up Mystic River and start reading. You’ll be done before you know it. Then go see the film. Let me know which one you thought was better.

../leafnotes/2003/ln031009.html
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ADOPTION OPTION
by Amy Shore amy@ahherald.com
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ETERNAL SPRING

Guatemala is known as the “land of eternal spring,” because their temperatures are always mild.  From pictures, I see lush greenery, beautiful mountains, and serene lakes.  Of course, that is in the travel brochures and PR for tourism purposes.  If you are one of the indigent, life in Guatemala most likely is not so lush, even with that gorgeous backdrop in place.  I’ve seen the mud huts, the communal watering holes, and the shoeless children when I research deeper into the land of my second daughter.  Guatemala is a land of contrasts for the haves and have-nots. 

International adoption certainly changes the lives of thousands of children each year who leave behind their Latin American birth countries and culture and venture into wealthier lands with parents who can afford food, clothing, shelter, and educational opportunities.  But that doesn’t mean it’s right.  I have mixed emotions, really, about international adoption.  When I think of how drastically different Lucinda’s life will be with us versus how it would have been with her birthmother, I can’t help but think of that awesome responsibility we all have, as parents, to shape the lives of our children. 

One thing that will remain the same:  the lush green backdrop.  Dave, Miranda, and I painted Lucinda’s bedroom walls a lush green color in honor of Guatemala, the Land of Eternal Spring. 

As one who tries to learn as much as she can about Guatemala’s culture, I stumbled across a site on the Internet called Mayan Traditions (http://www.mayantraditions.com/).  This is a Fair Trade project, meaning a fair and equitable partnership was made between the marketers in the United States and the producers in Latin America.  This type of partnership greatly helps the indigent Guatemalan artisans and farmers.  There is a Fair Trade Federation that monitors these projects, ensuring that a fair wage is paid, that employees have opportunities for advancement, that even the most disadvantaged are provided equal employment opportunities, and that healthy, safe working conditions are met.

I was drawn to the Mayan dolls, and that’s where I clicked my mouse.   “Since 1996, over 80 women have worked to create more than 3,000 Maya Dolls, weaving traditional clothing which resembles their own. They carefully sew and braid the hair, embroider the face. This has been a source of great pride for these Maya women who live in remote highland villages of Guatemala as well as needed income,” was the description under a picture of four Guatemalan women of varying ages, sitting under a tree in the lush green grass, creating beautiful dolls.

Obviously these women were Guatemala’s poor.  Could one of these doll-makers be Lucinda’s grandmother?  Aunt?  Older sister?  Mother?  (If she lived her life in Guatemala, could it one day have been Lucinda?)

Antonia is the doll I chose to purchase.    She has long, black, braided hair tied with red ribbons, charcoal-colored eyes, and a sweet smile on her coffee-colored face.  Her blouse, called a huipil, is white with red and black decorative stitching and quetzels (Guatemalan blue birds) embroidered on it; women from the same villages would all wear the same huipil, and that is one way to identify where in Guatemala they live.  Antonia’s wrap around skirt, called a corte, is beautifully woven with a myriad of rich, burgundy-colored threads.  In Guatemala, girls between the ages of eight and twelve learn from their grandmothers and mothers how to weave; Antonia’s dress is representative of that craftsmanship.  The doll’s clothing resembles the dress of the doll crafters in the internet photograph.  Hand made in Guatemala, this doll will be the first doll in Lucinda’s collection.  More importantly, it will be a tangible tie to her culture and to her homeland. 

I want to do more to help those in need, especially those with a tie to Lucinda, but the adoption fees we are paying are so exorbitant that I am doing all that I can right now to make the world a better place.  If Lucinda’s birthmother had enough money, would she raise Lucinda herself?  Or would she still believe that Lucinda’s life would be better outside Guatemala with us?  That I’ll never know. 

I have to have faith in God that what is to be, will be.  And despite our many differences, I bet Lucinda’s birthmother feels that way, too. 

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FERRY RIDER
by Anne Smolenski Boiko
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anne@ahherald.com

AMONG OUR FOLLOW RIDERS

Looking around the passengers on the ferries, both morning and evening, I’ve often wondered just what interests people have, aside from their usual workday routines. It would seem logical that there may be those among us who have taken up pursuits that are somewhat out of the ordinary. Recently, I was handed a political brochure. There is certainly nothing unusual about that; what did catch my interest was that the person running for office was a regular commuter. It couldn’t quite be said that we have a celebrity among us, but it is all the same interesting to note and wonder why someone would embark upon such a journey.

Brian Unger, a regular on the SeaStreak, is running in the 11th District on the Green Party ticket for New Jersey State Senate. The election is on November 4th and his campaign challenges incumbent Joseph Palaia. Running for the state senate is not exactly starting at the bottom of the political barrel and running on the Green ticket does not assure unlimited campaign workers or funds. Add to these factors an opponent who has been in office for 21 years and any reasonable person might look upon this task as slightly daunting. The question at hand is why would anyone take on such a task. The answer could be that this is a proving ground for future endeavors or a desire to give voters other options and cause those in office to view things differently; perhaps all of the above. Brian started off his involvement in community affairs as a result of his love for surfing. Surfers value clean environments which naturally led to oceanic concerns and his involvement with other environmentalists in founding S.E.A. Surfers’ Environmental Alliance. Least he be perceived under the standard ‘dude’ image, Brian was active with the Long Branch Zoning Board and worked as press secretary to Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. He is a resident of Long Branch and his children have been educated in the New Jersey public school system.

The issues, the ones that most of us respond to with exasperation, seem to have launched him into a whirlwind of activity. Whether or not his solutions are workable within a body of politicians might forever be a mystery but they are interesting and worth serious consideration. Whether or not Brian is successful in his bid for election, I suppose is not really the point. The point is he voiced ideas and opinions and gave everyone something about which to think.

Certainly, there are many commuters who pursue a multitude of worthwhile activities. This is just one among us. If you know of others, we’d enjoy hearing about them.

../ferry/2003/fr031009_fellow_riders.htm
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POETS' LAIR
by Area Poets
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THE SEWING ROOM

Dove's in her dovecote cooing and preening;
Sun through the windowpane's warm, glowing feeling;
Cat's on the counterpane padding and purring;
Machine goes on ticking, ticking and whirring
to the song of my soul.
Thread upon fabric so gallantly riding,
Imagining peace on earth and
satisfied sighing.

Elizabeth Jordan Kittredge

../poet/2003/pl031009_sewing_room.htm
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(editors note: Do you have poetry to share? Send your submission to editor@ahherald.com.)


Picture This!
View Picture This! Archive

sponsored by

Restaurant and Marina
Visit our website
WHAT'S HAPPENING AT BAHRS

../picture_this/2003/pt_031009.htm   or click here

Picture This! We'll show you a photo each week and you tell us where in Monmouth County that photo was taken.  If you have not won in the last 30 days and you know the answer, send your response to editor@ahherald.com along with your name and the town where you live. 

Be the first person to respond with the correct answer before next Thursday and we will publish your name and the town where you live. In addition, we'll send you a gift certificate for $25 from Bahr's Landing Marina and Restaurant in Highlands, NJ.

Only those responses received on, or after, the date above will be accepted.

Last Week's Picture This! Answer

Mark Vitollo of Middletown was the first person to correctly identify this location last week.

A:  The skate park is located on Pulsch Street in Port Monmouth


READER'S WRITE


The AH Herald provides this space for community commentary on issues of local importance.   The extended format of our Readers Write page will remind many of the Op-Ed pages in print newspapers. We hope you find the information compelling and informative. If you have something to say about a LOCAL issue, send your comments, along with your name, street address and daytime phone number to: editor@ahherald.com

../readers_write/index.html  
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REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES IN ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS CAN POINT TO REAL ACHIEVEMENTS

Eleven years ago, my husband and I moved to Atlantic Highlands because it is a great place to raise a family. We enjoy the small town atmosphere and sense of living within a community where people work together. As a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Atlantic Highlands Fire Department, I have experienced first hand what it means for a group of volunteers to work together towards a common goal.
As a resident and a concerned taxpayer, I have seen the improvements made during Republican administration of the Borough. Taxpayers can be assured that my extensive financial background will allow me to look at expenses and manage a cost efficient budget. One of my greatest interests is to see continued growth along First Avenue and to make it a destination for shoppers and diners alike. Another objective of mine is to either renovate or relocate our library for all of our residents to enjoy.

This election is about the future of Atlantic Highlands. The Republican team led by Councilman Jack Archibald, myself and Marty Shann have put our agenda before the voters. I believe that our residents are more interested in candidates that can point to real achievements and progress as opposed to partisan bickering and self- promotion. This November, please support the team that has been working for Atlantic Highlands and has a verifiable record.

Sincerely,

Debbie Traphagen
Atlantic Highlands Republican Council Candidate

../readers_write/2003/031009_achievements.htm
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 PETERS MUST BE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT ON BANFIELD

It seems to be that Mayor Rosemarie Peters must be doing a fine job in Middletown. The proof is that her opponents for the upcoming Middletown council race can only focus on something good she has done for Middletown – Turning the Banfield Building into a cultural arts center and not a parking lot.

The aesthetic value of the Historic Village Section has been a constant battle for the people for live there. For once the town listened to it’s citizens and instead of allowing NJ transit to buy the building and turn it into another train station parking lot, they decided to do good for not only the Village residents but for the whole town as well. The late coming opponents to this project (where were they 2 years ago?) say the sound of the train will drown out any singing or musical performances. This isn’t a real problem because during the time a performance, the train doesn’t run that often and I’m sure the designers of the building took the train sound in account for.

I firmly believe the opposition to this project is politically motivated. And to the democratic and independent challengers, don’t you dare try to tear that building down and turn it into a parking lot because you will have the residents of the Village to deal with!

Lisa Walsh
Middletown, NJ 07748

../readers_write/2003/031009_peters_right.htm
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AZZOLINA IN DEFENSE OF FAMILY ON TOWN SQUARE DISPUTE

I resent the vicious attack against me by Gerard P. Scharfenberger of Middletown on your editorial page: “Azzolina Blinded by Greed and Bitter Vindictiveness” (Oct. 2).

Simply because Mr. Scharfenberger is opposed to the proposed Town Square at Middletown, he is doing everything he can to destroy my name and reputation. The Town Square is my children’s project. When a few mean-spirited politicians in town start messing with my children, who are trying to follow the law, I’m going to get involved – not as a politician, but as a father.

Mr. Scharfenberger is one of Mayor Rosemarie Peters’ most outspoken supporters. Peters is one of the leaders of the opposition to the Town Square project. Ironically, Mayor Peters supported a “Town Center” concept when the Township adopted its Master Plan in 1993 and reapproved that plan in 1996 and again in1998, designating a “Town Center” on property that my family owns along Route 35 north, opposite Town Hall. 

Then the mayor changed her mind, apparently influenced by some myopic NIMBYs in Middletown who are radically opposed to any development, even if it’s what the State Plan promotes as “smart growth,” which is beneficial, high-quality growth of great value to the community.

NIMBYs are those opposed to any development – Period. That’s why they’re known as NIMBYs (Not In My Back Yard). They’re opposed to everything they don’t like. NIMBYs do not live in the real world. They’ve got their homes and jobs, but they want to shut out those who seek the same lifestyle they have. That’s blatant discrimination at its worst.

What Mr. Scharfenberger and his clique of elitists completely ignore is my excellent record as a state legislator and a successful entrepreneur who has given millions of dollars and tons of food to worthy causes in Middletown and Monmouth County over the past 50 years.

Mr. Scharfenberger enjoys attacking those who don’t agree with him, thanks to the free-speech First Amendment of our Constitution. But Mr. Scharfenberger doesn’t want those who disagree with him to use their First Amendment rights to present the facts involving the Town Square at Middletown. But that’s how NIMBYs think. So beware of what NIMBYs have to say when they disagree with someone. Is it Reality? Or, Fantasy?

Joseph Azzolina
Middletown, NJ

../readers_write/2003/031009_azzolina_responds.htm
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FOOD CIRCUS EMPLOYEES ENTITLED TO SIGN PETITIONS

Dear Editor:

I have just finished reading the article, in your October 2003, edition, "Middletown Mayor Charges that Town Center Developers and Their Newspaper Are Engaged in Conspiracy, etc." and I am disappointed in our mayor, to say the least. Middletown Mayor, Rosemarie Peters' attack on Assemblyman Joe Azzolina sounds like the whining of a spoiled child. A child that has gotten her way for so long that having to play on a level playing field or having to actually work to get elected would cause her to grab at any excuse to avoid defeat.

Assemblyman Joe Azzolina has always been one of Middletown's biggest supporters Not just as an individual but also as a businessman and politician. Mayor Peters, do you remember those anti drug rallies sponsored by and held on Food Circus property. You should, they always gave you and your cronies a great opportunity to go around glad-handing and chest thumping about how you made Middletown such a safe place to live. Or what about the food baskets picked and packed by Foodtown employees, to be given out over the Holidays? I guess since that took place after the elections you were to busy to pitch in and help? I could go on about Mr. Azzolina's support for Middletown, but I didn't mean to write this letter as a tribute to Joe Azzolina.

I wrote it because I couldn't believe Mrs. Peters would even mention that some Food Circus employees signed Mr. Lydon's petition to run for Township Committee as if there were something amiss. Perhaps if every FoodCircus employee had signed the petition, then she might cry foul. Mrs. Peters, Middletown is still part of the USA and these people have a right to sign whatever petition they chose to sign, no matter who they work for. One can only hope that your search of petition signatures will not lead to retribution against any Township employees that may have signed it.

I have to applaud Jim Purcel, Courier editor. Since he has taken over, I have noticed that the paper has started to do something it hasn't done in a long time. The Courier has started to report the news in a more professional, unbiased manner. I guess some people could look at this as unfair.

I would also like to congratulate Senator Joseph Kyrillos for rising above the mudslinging and trying to get the children to act like adults. While Senator Kyrillos may have to much class to say it, I don't. Mrs. Peters, stop your whining and work for your reelection. It is not going to be handed to you this year.

PS I am not a Food Circus employee.

Thank you,
Ron McClelland
Middletown Taxpayer

../readers_write/2003/031009_food_circus_petitions.htm  
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INDEPENDENT CANDIDATES BRING INTELLECT AND HONESTY TO CAMPAIGN

To The Editor,

It is time for Monmouth County residents and taxpayers to go beyond party labels and vote for quality independent candidates who have the vision and willpower to break through the two-party system and bring intellectual and moral honesty to the political process.

In Sea Bright, an independent running for mayor, Andrew Mencinsky, is just such a person. Running for state senate in the coastal Monmouth district, Brian Unger is just such a person.

Both of these candidates have committed themselves to attacking the issue of rapacious property tax increases, not looking to a party hierarchy for answers, but looking directly at the warped economic conditions that are causing the problem.

In the case of Sea Bright, Mencinsky is not only devoted to improving the business district and the residential parts of town, he and his allies on the borough council are focused on the Draconian formula that has Sea Bright taxpayers funding 14% of the Shore Regional High School budget, while providing only 4% of the student body.

On the district level, Brian Unger has been the only senate candidate, since day one, correctly way out in front on the ‘pay-to-play’ shakedowns, job paybacks, fake jobs, double-dipping, and no-bid contracts that are the fundaments of our local political system. How any Monmouth County resident would not vote for Brian Unger is beyond my comprehension.

Brian Unger and Andrew Mencinsky are environmentalists who have fought hard for the rational protection of fishing, surfing and diving spots in many of our beach towns. Now they want to rationalize the overlap, duplication, patronage and waste of county and state government, and school taxes, to once and for all provide property tax relief.

It’s time for the old war- horses that run Monmouth County to retire to the fabulous pensions and health benefits they have provided for themselves at our expense.

John Connor
Rumson, NJ 07760

../readers_write/2003/031009_independents.htm
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HOMESCHOOLING IS SERIOUS UNDERTAKING

Ms. Barbieri:

When I started reading your article (BACK TO HOMESCHOOL), I warned myself to give it a chance and appreciate any fun-poking.  It seemed light-hearted at first, but as I went on reading, I realized there was some serious criticism that I could not ignore, so I am taking time to respond.

First, I have to object to the characterization of homeschoolers as being crazy, as in "you'd have to be crazy to..." not put your kids in school. Homeschoolers face these kinds of put-downs on a regular basis and frankly, it is (in some cases) sounding more like discrimination (in the worst sense of the word) each time I hear this type of comment. One is undertaking a serious endeavor when deciding to homeschool.  We don't do it to punish ourselves, and we are not "masochistic gluttons". 

One also does not take on this huge job to make other mothers feel inadequate.  Who has the time to entertain thoughts about how "saintly" we will look compared to other parents? Not many homeschoolers I know.

The reasons for homeschoolers are many - almost as many as those of us who homeschool.  We don't all do it because we want our kids to be intellectual giants among the small-minded masses; a pretty unrealistic goal, don't you think?  We're normal people with normal problems.  Our kids play soccer, go to parties, experience classroom settings with a teacher (through co-op's), have behavior issues, etc., just like your kids.  Some of us want the positive benefits of schooling without the negative aspects of a big, impersonal school setting.  So, we rearrange our lives, in a big way, to try to achieve this.  We manage to cut out some of the bad stuff, (not all of course), and we get together with each other to provide the good parts of a school setting.

If parents are happy with all of the good and bad of public school; if they think that is valuable, then I say, go for it.  Thankfully, we have the freedom to do what we think is best for our kids in this country.

I'd just ask that if you'd like to criticize or poke fun, don't imply that we are a bunch of crazy wackos.  If you want to accuse me of a dusty house, or of constantly complaining, though, come on over to my house, have a cup of tea, and I'll show you what kind of normal I am.  Then you can write a legitimate article about homeschooling.

By the way, I read your bio and noticed you achieved a degree in English Literature (an endeavor after my own heart), and that you are a singer-songwriter.  I'll tell my sister, who plays in Philadelphia (also an s/s), to check out your show in New York the next time she is up there.

Kathy Marchione
Doylestown, PA

../readers_write/2003/031009_homeschooling.htm  
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 BISHOP RUNS ROUGHSHOD OVER HISTORY AND FACTS

Editor,

No number of half-baked ephemeral awards, honors and kudos that Gordon Bishop displays to the unwary masses will ever compensate for the shallowness of his thinking. Relying on awards, honors, and ‘authorities,’ which to common folk look impressive, is intellectually dishonest. It’s intellectually lazy as well. I’d like to point out to your readers that Gordon’s argumentative methodology has long been discredited in our cultural and intellectual history. It’s known as the “argumentum ad authoritatem.” -- an argument or truth claim that assumes validity from the get-go simply by referring to a presumed pre-existing authority. In Gordon’s case the authority claimed lies in the effulgent list of awards and career positions he posts alongside his dubious column. Historian now, Gordon? I assume your Ph.D. is from a respected university and that your historical work has been vetted by your peers in the profession.

Gordon’s method was used by the Church and monarchs alike for centuries in order to exert hierarchical control over truth claims, before enlightened free thinkers, scientists and philosophers in the 17th century began to explode the notion that ‘authority’ alone was sufficient proof itself for a claim on truth.

The intellectually dishonest thing about your reliance on authority, Gordon, is that instead of doing the hard work of a more sophisticated analysis (at least your political confrere George Will does serious homework, exerting his brain cells) you ride roughshod over history and fact with a half-baked logic unsupported by any set of references tied together in a coherent framework. In the end, the only possible way for the uninformed reader to evaluate your vile spewings is by reference to a list of your accomplishments, instead of by reference to the validity of your argument itself. Your tirade in the Oct. 2 column was shockingly callous, empty and mean-spirited. We should have more intellectual honesty from a formerly respected journalist.

Brian Unger
State Senate Candidate, 11th legislative district (Coastal Monmouth)

../readers_write/2003/031009_bishop_history.htm  
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FERRY OPERATOR SINKS TO NEW LOW

In March 2002, at the request of the governors of New York and New Jersey, NY Waterway was given an operating subsidy to improve the then-existing ferry services from Hoboken to Pier A and the World Financial Center and to create a new service from Hoboken to Pier 11, the East River terminal at Wall Street. The idea was to compensate for the loss of PATH service to the WTC in Lower Manhattan The subsidy started at $2.6 million per month.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which was supplying the funds, discovered that it was being double-billed for several items. The Port Authority of NY and NJ, which had sponsored the program and was administering it for the two states, immediately began negotiating reductions in the subsidy calculations.

In August 2002, local papers published articles pointing out that the double billing continued, that FEMA was being billed for several expenses that were never incurred, and that the taxpayers were being charged many times the actual cost for most of the other elements used to calculate the subsidy payment.

By the end of 2002, investigators from the office of the Port Authority’s Inspector General, prompted by those articles, had collected solid evidence of fraud. By then, the monthly subsidy had been reduced to $1.4 million per month.

In April 2003, the NY Times broke the story that the IG investigators had secured subpoenas for NY Waterway records and had a good case for fraud. By then, the method of calculating the subsidy had been “simplified.” Taxpayers would cover all costs of operating the new service from Hoboken to Wall Street. NY Waterway would keep all farebox revenues as its profit for providing that service.

As of early this summer, the cost of operating the new service had been negotiated down to $1.1 million. The ferry operator was then carrying 3,400 roundtrip passengers a day between Hoboken and Wall Street. Dividing monthly costs by monthly trips, FEMA is paying NY Waterway about $7.50 in subsidies for each passenger trip. The average fare last summer was $2.00 but it was recently raised to $2.30. It should be noted that NY Waterway has been operating a ferry service to Wall Street from Jersey City and manages to make costs -- and maybe a little profit -- at that same $2.30 average fare.

This past July, the NY Times ran a lengthy article providing details of this ongoing larceny. The story also highlighted the hundreds of millions of our taxes that will be spent in the next few years to provide NY Waterway with new terminals on the Hudson River.

A Newark Star Ledger story in September made it clear that since March of ’02, the ferry operator’s corporate books show subsidy payments have been three times larger than company profits. Put another way, if you choose to believe NY Waterway’s figures, they would be losing millions of dollars a year without the current subsidies. Makes you wonder if they can stay in business when the subsidies are terminated.

NY Waterway is now negotiating an out-of-court settlement with the Justice Department which will preclude future prosecution using any of the evidence collected by the IG’s men.

There is no longer a credible threat of any punishment--- much less a chance that any of the public monies will be returned. The only question is how long the million dollar monthly gifts will continue after PATH’s downtown service has been restored.

Robert J. Riker
Rumson, NJ

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