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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
ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — On a crested moonlit night the historic Strauss Museum sits dark and vacant at the top of Mount Avenue in Atlantic Highlands. Is it haunted people ask? Who knows? If the strange creaks, footsteps and banging doors heard through the rooms of this hilltop mansion were any indication many would say yes! So beware dear reader as a story unfolds of the Creepy Lantern Tour through the Haunted Streets of Olde Victorian Atlantic Highlands.The haunted tour started from the Strauss Museum where guests were met by lantern toting narrator’s Paul Boyd, Marylin Scherfen, Bill Zengel, Tracey Abbey and Allan Dean.
Those brave souls dared to come out in the name of fun! All of this haunting fun had a reason you see. The event orchestrated by Cindy Fligor, Eileen Zengel, Toni Shann and Tracy Abby raised $800 over two nights last week to help the Henry Hudson Marching Band get to Walt Disney World to march in the Main Street Parade in March 2004!
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LINCROFT, NJ — The Center for Holocaust Studies at Brookdale Community College will present the Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration on Monday, November 10 at 7:30 P.M. The free program will be held in the MAN building, room 105. Parking is most convenient in lot #5.This year's program, The Voices of Children, will focus on the significance of student writing as part of Holocaust Remembrance. Highlighting the event will be a presentation by Dr. Jeffrey Shandler, professor of Jewish Studies, Rutgers University. Joining him will be local winners of the Annual Luna Kaufman Writing and Art Contest. The students will read their moving poems and prose. Dr. Shandler is author of Awakening Lives: Autobiographies of Jewish Youth in Poland Before the Holocaust. The collection is written by young Polish Jews in the 1930's. The writings reveal the personal struggles, ambitions and dreams of 15 young authors and the nature of ordinary Jewish life in Poland during the years between World Wars I and II. "The adolescent Jewish authors, unaware of the catastrophic future awaiting them, tell their stories with a simple directness, describing their lives as they understood them at the time," said Dale Daniels, Program Administrator. "Their voices now speak across the chasm of history, providing a moving testament from the vantage point of young Jews in the final years before the Holocaust," she added. For more information and to register for the program, call the Center for Holocaust Studies at #732-224-2074.
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by Allan Dean ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — At the borough council meeting last week, Atlantic Highlands Police Chief Jerry Vasto asked that the Council consider the installation of a traffic light on First Avenue - the town's main business street. Chief Vasto said there has been an increase in traffic coming from a number of sources including: new businesses opening in town such those in the new Hesse building and the new Lesbriel building, SeaStreak ferry, the Atlantic 5-Plex movie theater and the Shore Casino. The chief said that because First Avenue is a County road permission would be needed from the county to install a traffic light. He said the most likely place for the light would be at the intersection of First Avenue where it meets East Highland and West Highland avenues. Sgt. John Weighell, the borough's traffic officer, said this week that the light was in the planning stage at this point. A request was made to county planners for a traffic survey. Included with the request was data on the number of cars traveling on First Avenue on a given day and the number of accidents at the intersection. Weighell noted that there are a number of accident along First Avenue. Chief Vasto told the council that the light would have a calming effect on the traffic and would allow vehicle access to First Avenue from side streets. The County should respond to the traffic survey request in two weeks according to Weighell.
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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — Atlantic Highlands Councilman Jack Archibald is urging town residents to use caution on Halloween.“Halloween is great fun for children and adults alike,” Archibald said. “But because much of the activity goes on after dark, drivers need to be extra cautious.” Likewise, parents and children, who may have their vision hampered by great looking costumes, should take extra care when crossing streets. “People should carry flashlights where possible, and be sure to cross streets at the corners,” said Archibald, who is running for Mayor of Atlantic Highlands on the Republican ticket with Marty Shann and Debby Traphagen. “We want everyone to have a great, safe Halloween,” said Archibald. “And with just a few simple precautions that can be possible.” The curfew for those under 18 on both October 30th and October 31st is 8:00 p.m. Trick or Treating is permitted only on October 31st from noon until 8:00 p.m.
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MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Beginning in November, credit card payments over the Internet will be among the options available to residents when it comes to paying property taxes. “Adding credit cards payments over the Internet to the mix of available payment options is part of a concentrated effort to make it more convenient for residents to do business with the municipality,” said Mayor Rosemarie D. Peters. “In today’s busy world, anything we can do to make it easier for citizens to access municipal services is a win-win situation for everyone.” Internet payments will be processed via Official Payments Corp, which handles Internet payments for taxes, fees and more than 1300 government agencies at the federal state and local level. Resident will be able access the site 24 hours a day through the township’s website at www.middletownnj.org. Residents should note there are convenience fees associated with the service that are charged by and paid directly to Official Payment Corps. Township offices began to accept credit card payments for property taxes and most township permit, license, building, application, and miscellaneous fees last month. Residents and business owners can continue to make payments by cash, check, or money order. Other recent measures taken to improve citizen access to government services and information include updating the township website to include downloadable township forms, financial documents, access to the township’s Geographic Information System, and e-mail contacts for township offices. News and event schedules can be obtained from MMTV, the township’s municipal access station on cable channel 20, and on the township website, www.middletownnj.org.
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KEANSBURG, NJ — Triggered by the efforts of the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), led by Commissioner Gwendolyn L. Harris, to transform child protective services in the state, the Northern Monmouth District Office of DYFS (Division of Youth and Family Services) sponsored a Keansburg Town Meeting in March. The town meeting drew over 75 people from community groups and agencies who brainstormed ways to safeguard children and at-risk families in their area. That community partnership has evolved into a permanent Keansburg Resource Network (KRN) that opened its doors Tuesday, October 28. The Keansburg Resource Network is a referral office for social service needs at St. Marks Episcopal Church, 14 Kennedy Way, Keansburg, NJ The phone number is: 732-495-8222; Fax 732-495-8224 The Director is Mary Lou Caputo According to Resource Development Specialist Jo Pohl, of the Northern Monmouth DYFS District Office, "the KRN mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents of Keansburg, by enabling residents to more easily identify and access social services. We are committed to the creation of a resource and information center in Keansburg that will provide on-site information about programs and services, and facilitate linkages to resources that meet the needs of Keansburg's population. We are further committed to developing additional resources and services within Keansburg itself, to make access to relevant services more possible. " The KRN was selected to be the Monmouth County Model (a collaboration of community agencies to assist children and families) to be presented at Commissioner Harris final Save the Childrens Day event this year, at Brookdale Community College on November 19th.
*SERVICES OFFERED at KRN:
*all services are free of charge
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MIDDLETOWN, NJ — On Sunday, November 23rd from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the seniors from the Middletown Senior Center and the Key Club members from Middletown High School North will be having their "Fourth Annual Senior Homecoming Dance" at Middletown High School North. Admissions to the dance is free for both seniors and Key Club members; however, a voluntary contribution of any non-perishable food item is encouraged. All food collected will be donated to "Middletown Helps Its Own" for holiday food baskets.This annual Intergenerational event will be held in the Cafeteria of Middletown High School North; and will include the seniors and teens enjoying a live DJ for dancing, door prizes and light refreshments. The Students will be "surprising" each senior with a flower corsage or boutonniere; and they will be performing musical entertainment for the seniors. Also, two seniors will be selected to be the "Year 2003" Senior Citizen Homecoming King and Queen" and will be crowned at the dance. Some of the Previous Senior Citizen Homecoming Kings and Queens may even be on hand to officially crown this year's new "Royal Couple". Approximately 50 seniors and 40 teens are expected to attend. Middletown High School North is located at 63 Tindall Road, Middletown. For more information about this Homecoming Dance or other programs at the Senior Center, please call (732) 615-2265.
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SHREWSBURY, NJ — On Sunday, November 2, 2003, Ray Soya, a Shrewsbury resident, successful architect, and father of three will be running in his 13th consecutive New York City Marathon. This year he will use his love of running to help folks in Monmouth County who are homeless. Mr. Soya plans to run the 2003 New York City Marathon as a benefit for HABcore, Inc. HABcore is a Red Bank based non-profit serving Monmouth County. Its mission is to provide permanent and transitional supportive housing in a family-like setting to low-income persons who are homeless, disabled, or unable to care for themselves, and to affording them lives of dignity and meaning. Mr. Soya says, " This will be one of the most significant marathons I will ever run. That's because I'll be running in support of the many people in the Greater Red Bank and Monmouth County areas who are in need of shelter and housing-something that many of us generally take for granted. Through HABcore, we can help to find and maintain housing for those who can least afford it." To join Ray Soya in his effort to help HABcore achieve its mission, please consider a financial pledge. Information about pledging is available by calling HABcore, Inc. @ 732-219-5310. You may also email the HABcore offices at kmulligan@habcore.org. Thank you for your support!
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MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Assemblyman Joseph Azzolina, Honorary Chair of the Middletown Township Library’s Capital Campaign, has pledged $100,000 with his family for the new community library.
When the building plans were first announced this year, Assemblyman Azzolina was the first to call the library to express a personal interest in making a contribution, O’Neill noted. The state lawmaker “also offered many suggestions on how the library could tap local residents and businesses for contributions to the building fund,” she added. In making his pledge, Azzolina said this is the largest contribution the family has ever made. “It’s for the children and the future of Middletown,” the retired Navy Captain said. Last year, Azzolina was tapped as Honorary Chair of the Capital Campaign, in response to his enthusiasm for the project and commitment to help in the fundraising. The Azzolina-Scaduto families have lived in Middletown since 1955. They have been witness to change and growth of the public library from a small building on Kings Highway to a Main Library on New Monmouth Road, with three branches. “The public library is a vital community institution, which enhances the quality of life in the Township, and makes Middletown a good place to live and do business,” said Azzolina. “It is an educational and cultural center for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests.” Randall Gabrielan, an author/historian and President of the Library Board, said “the Library is deeply grateful for this generous gift.”
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RED BANK, NJ — Do you like to curl up in front of a fireplace on a wintry Sunday afternoon and read Robert Frost? Do you think there's an Emily Dickinson or Longfellow living inside you? Is Billy Collins' dog poem the funniest you've heard? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, then read on! Writer's Ink, Monmouth County's only poetry group, is a diverse group of contest winning, published poets. the group has been meeting on Tuesday afternoons at Red Bank Public Library for over eight years so we must be doing something right! There are no dues, no fees-we write poetry-we critique
poetry and we publish an annual anthology of our work.
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EATONTOWN, NJ — The November meeting will be held on Sunday the 9th at the Community Center, 68 Broad Street in Eatontown. Come and join us for "Discovering The History Of Your House." Our speaker will be Beth Potter, a professional house historian who was recently featured in the New York Times. As that article said "...old houses speak to Mrs. Potter and she translates what they say." It goes on to say that she "...is an avid storyteller and in person the stories come in an accent reflecting her roots in Tennessee." As is our custom, please feel free to join us for refreshments and genealogy networking at 1:30 PM. We will begin our program at 2:00 PM with a short business meeting followed by our speaker's presentation. For more information or directions please call Larry Fermi, MCGS Program Chair at 732-345-7258
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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — A native plant garden was recently installed at Lenape Woods.
Shown resting after their digging labors are (left to right) Mike Shine and son Garrett, Pat Moffet, Jacqueline Royce, Paul Boyd, Shirley Thorne, Maureen Deakin, John Herbert, and Chair of the Native Plant Committee, Bill Thorne. ../news/2003/1030/lenape_plants.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
LINCROFT, NJ — Brookdale's Student Life & Activities and the Humanities Division have announced poet Anne Marie Macari will lecture at the College Tuesday, November 11. The free event will be held in the Donald D. Warner Student Life Center, room 217. The program will begin at 7:00 P.M. Parking is most convenient in lots #6 or #7.
Poet Anne Marie Macari Will Lecture at Brookdale Visiting Writers Series
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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ — The United Methodist Women's Group of Atlantic Highlands and Navesink will sponsor an old fashioned bazaar on Saturday, October 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a delicious luncheon to be served 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church, corner of East Garfield and Third Avenues (one block east of First Avenue) in Atlantic Highlands.Included in the bazaar will be hand crafted gifts, baked goods and jams/relishes, lightly used books, toys, games, household treasures, interesting jewelry, plants and more. A local plant authority will be on-site to answer questions about gardening. The luncheon will feature soups (chicken, pea) and salad plates (seafood, chicken.) Pies will be the dessert (Lemon meringue, apple and pumpkin.) Best pies in Monmouth County. Tea, Coffee, Cider and Soda. Children can also have pizza and cookies. Proceeds from the bazaar will be used to support local charities such as the Women's Center of Monmouth County, Atlantic Highlands Food Pantry, the Atlantic Highlands and Navesink United Methodist Churches, and youth camperships. ../news/2003/1030/womens_bazaar.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
10th Annual Event Draws over 200 Runners By Jack Kearns LONG BRANCH, NJ — At 8:17 a.m. on Sunday, October 25, the air temperature at the oceanfront at Long Branch's Seven Presidents Park was a breezy 60 degrees, give or take a degree. A steady, strong breeze had flags and banners straight out at times, but far from a nor'easter. The Windmill Restaurant had open parking places near the door where several teenage boys, Long Branch Police Explorers, were talking to "Trick or Trot" Jersey Shore Running Club officials about the course layout and how they would be helping when the race got underway. Patrolman Kevin Condon was with the five but he stopped to talk about how Explorers help police with traffic assistance for events like parades, races, and Halloween gatherings like the one at West End that same day. Explorers help youngsters to mature and become responsible adults, and maybe become a policeman or a policewoman in the future. But Sunday was a race day; and jobs were being
laid out for the "Trick or Trot". Sponsors played an important part, too, providing the financial backing for prizes, T-shirts for the runners, refreshments, and the collection of other required supplies. The sponsors were Celtic Cottage Pub, Windmill Restaurants, and Super Foodtown of West End (all of Long Branch), and the Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe in Spring Lake! The JRSC gratefully acknowledges their support. They are all great places to patronize, and good race supporters. The Jersey Shore Running Club sponsors the Trick or Trot around Halloween each year. Registration tables setup in the Windmill were covered with entry forms and news flyers of future events JSRC and other clubs will be sponsoring. Lou Malizioso, the race Director, Peggy Hinck and other JSRC members were readying for the 200 to 300 expected participants. Runners of all ages, including many little runners in age groups 4 to 12. The difference today was it was a Halloween celebration too, and costumed contestants would run in full regalia. The club expected witches, bats, ghosts or any other appropriate monster of the season. As it turned out, an even wider range of fun seeking costumers arrived to add spirit (sorry, I had to say it) to the festivities. The kids' races started at 10:30, with the four year olds racing about the distance of two good Frisbee tosses. The five year olds did 4 1/2 Frisbee tosses, and so on up to age 12. Monsters (minor sized of course) contested along with a flamingo, a turtle, Batman, a most charming Cupid with a heart pointed bow, all kinds of masked men, and the list goes on. The one-mile race for the 12 year olds was the highlight of the kid portion of the program, but it is fair to say all the kids poured their hearts out to win, and there was a prize for every entrant. But the more serious race began at 11:00 a.m. Then, more mature rivals for racing glory stepped up to the START line, costumes and all. There was a black cat, her age we can't say, eyeing three blind mice. A jester pranced back and forth waiting to be noticed for the bright leotards and his medieval "jestering". There was a Maine Lobster in a lobster trap, and angels and devils who co-existed staring at each other only on occasion. The official STARTER and FINISHER was Jack Cheer who "Veeps" for the JSRC. He was bedecked in a bright pumpkin-shaped coverall visible from afar so all could tell where this FINISH line was. And escorting Jack, AKA Mr. Pumpkin, was a giant hot dog that had escaped from the Windmill that hosted the runners' registration desk. Walking from the Seven Presidents parking lot, kids were scooting ahead of the parents escorting them, anxious to "let the fun begin". Some parents and also runners were talking about the weather being good for the race, sixty, no strong sun, cool breeze, that wasn't as strong at 8:30 as it later became. In short it began as a great race weather day. If the rain would hold off. It did! The breeze was in the racers' faces on the trip "out" in the 4-mile event. The boardwalk along Long Branch's shore was the course. The runners lined up in front of the Windmill as Dawn Ciccone of Highlands, one of the runners, sang the national anthem in wonderfully clear voice, accompanied by the reverent quiet of the crowd. Phil Hinck gave final cautions about the course layout and the race began. Runners, walkers, racewalkers and folks who just wanted to walk were on their way. An hour or so later, contestants were rewarded with medals and pumpkins, and gifts of all kinds. For some their race timing was important, the challenge was the clock. For others the challenge was just doing it. Just being a part of it. For the kids it was a happy, happy day. In fact three hundred people at Seven Presidents Park on Sunday shared the feeling. Oh yes, Eric Saraiva from Middletown, a Monmouth University Freshman was first for the men at 22.27. And an exciting runner, 12-year-old Briana Jackucewcz from Farmingdale was the women's winner at 23.06. Great job Briana and Eric! We will definitely see more of them. Second and third for the men were Daniel Grieshaber from Jefferson Township at 22.55 and Shane Hart from Point Pleasant Beach at 23.06. Women's second was Jessica Thomas of Somerset, 24.24, and third Erin Donaghy from Robbinsville at 26.31 Other finishers of the 4 mile challenge: Rumson: Tom Coyle 29:56, Carol Irwin 31:43, D. Burke 37:28, Adrienne Ley 40:10, Ken Gahre 43:00, Kevin Gahre 55:42. Red Bank: Mary Beth Glaccum 29:19, Jim Mergel 32:29, Tom Natoli 34:39, Virginia Lennon 34:45, Mark Bizub 35:55, Dan Rapella 35:58, Kristin Gaul 40:04, Rosanna Vescio 46:50, Madeline Bizub 49;20, Louise Barajona 1:07:51. Middletown: John O'Connor 26:57, Regna Macla 28:34, John Stahl 28:37, William Crooks 28:51, Andrew MacLane 28:52, Elliot Olshwans 29:18, Patricia Andersen 29:49, Gil Eckert 32:15, John Marron 32:31, Kerry Lukcic 33:16, Heather Bushner 33:59, Lauren Kaiser 34:07, Kristin Oberg 36:03, Joanne Girard 1:07:52, Kelly Ann Keely 1:07:53. Others: Tim McLoone 28:26, Little Silver; Stephen Andrews 29:21, Atl. Highlands; Dawn Ciccone 29;26, Highlands; Vivian Smith 30:11 and Kim Mazella 31:36, Oceanport; Michelle German 32:58, Monmouth Beach; Stephen Noglows 33:17, Fair Haven; Steve Rice 34:29, Monmouith Beach; Bruce Hanson 35:00, Little Silver; Melanie Armstrong 35:01, Atl. Highlands; Janice Rudow 35:03, Little Silver; Kevin Kubic 35:07, Oceanport; Mary Fox 35:08, Little Silver; Randi Cohen 35:16 and Rich Bayeer 36:00, Fair Haven; Dorian Kershner 36:36, Atl. Highlands; Kristen Padovano 39:26, Fair Haven. Racers have the Hashathon 6 Mile Trail Race coming up at Cheesequake State Park on November 9 at 10:30 a.m., info call 732-528-0132. On November 16 is the Navesink Challenge 15K and 5K in Middletown at 9 a.m., info call 732-542-6090. Down the road is the Manasquan Turkey Trot, a 5 miler, on November 22 at 10 a.m., info call 732-223-9738.
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LINCROFT, NJ — Brookdale's championship Forensics team, led by Anna Strahs, Colts Neck, scored an award winning performance at the Ashland, Virginia Collegiate Forensics Association's (CFA) Annual Fall tournament. The October 24 and 25 event, hosted by Randolph-Macon College, featured two and four-year schools, including the University of North Carolina-Charolette, Morgan State University, Howard University and Morehead State University. Strahs, a novice, was pitted against varsity competitors at the CFA tournament. She placed fourth in After Dinner Speaking and sixth in Dramatic Interpretation. She also competed in Impromptu Speaking, Poetry Interpretation and Prose Interpretation. Strahs accumulated sufficient quality points during the preliminary rounds to earn a seventh place tournament overall out of 80 students. Only one of the six students above her was a first-year competitor. Strahs has emerged as the leader of a team comprised of almost all new students. She has won seven awards in her first three tournaments. Last year's team, the 2003 International Forensics Association Community College Champions, graduated most of its members. Strahs is leading the team rebuilding to continue Brookdale's reputation as top speakers in the nation. Forensics coach, Dan Leyes, Atlantic Highlands, has praised Strah's work ethic as the reason for her remarkably fast ascent up the intercollegiate ranks. "Anna has the inner drive to be the best. She has progressed further in a month than most do in their entire first year of competition," said Leyes. "With more experience, there is no limit to how far she will go," predicted Leyes. The Brookdale Forensics team will be competing in tournaments at Bloomsburg University (PA), New York University, and Seton Hall University in the next five weeks. For more details, call #732-224-2530 or e-mail: dleyes@brookdalecc.edu. ../news/2003/1030/bcc_strahs_forensics.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
FREEHOLD, NJ – Sheriff Joseph W. Oxley is proud to announce the graduation of 15 new Corrections Officers of the Eighteenth Basic Correctional Officers Training Academy Class at the Monmouth County Police Academy. Fifteen recruits from throughout New Jersey were honored for successfully completing ten weeks of intensive training. The graduation ceremony took place on Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at the Police Academy on Kosloski Road in Freehold. Joining the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office to serve at Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) are all 15 graduates: Christopher M. Acedvedo, Francis K. Antonowicz, Charles M. Benedict, Donald C. Connallon Jr., John L Consentino, Robert A. Evans, Kevin J. Holler, Thomas M. Huggan, Michael S. Kavanagh, Christopher D. Lenahan, Robert D. Medlyn, Raymond J. Paul, Julio C. Santiago Jr., Joseph P. Spallina, and Lakeesha D. Turnage. “The Monmouth County Correctional Institution employs a ‘direct supervision’ model of inmate management. This method relies on the skills and intense training of modern Corrections Officers to maintain an orderly, peaceable correctional environment,” Monmouth County Sheriff Joseph W. Oxley said. “With the quality education and comprehensive instruction received at the Monmouth County Police Academy, I am confident that these new Corrections Officers will serve with honor and distinction.” The fifteen graduates completed over 408 hours of instruction and preparation during the 10-week program at the Police Academy. The Corrections Officers received training in such diverse fields as corrections security, criminal justice, emergency management, investigation, firearms, unarmed self-defense, communications, suicide awareness, cultural diversity, first aid and physical training. To date, 326 Corrections Officers have graduated from the Police Academy’s Basic Course for County Corrections Officers. “The Monmouth County Corrections Officers
who have graduated today will join a force that is committed
to raising the standard of law enforcement excellence in New
Jersey,” Sheriff Oxley said. “The commitment to excellence
of the entire staff is important in ensuring that Monmouth
County remains a beautiful place to live work and raise a
family.” ../news/2003/1030/mcso_corrections_training.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
LINCROFT, NJ — Brookdale invites high school seniors and their guests to an Open House on Thursday, November 6. The annual event begins with a welcome reception at 9:30 AM in the new Donald D. Warner Student Life Center. Parking is most convenient in lots #1, 6 and 7. Information on financing a college education, transfer to four-year colleges, NJ Coastal Communiversity program offerings, career options and application procedures will be covered. Information from academic departments and campus organizations will be presented. Following the presentation, student ambassadors will conduct tours of the campus. "This is an excellent opportunity to meet our faculty, learn about their departments, and ask questions regarding particular course offerings," said Diane-Wran-Farris, Office of Recruitment Services. "High school students are encouraged to attend the Open House, to learn about the application and registration process as well as procedures for the Early Bird program," added Wran-Farris. Students and guests are requested to reserve by calling #732-224-2261.
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by Kim Ruane
EATONTOWN, NJ — Hoping to bring to the public the heartwarming stories of successful adoptions, the Monmouth County SPCA has put together some of their happiest alumni tales in their new 2004 calendar, entitled “New Beginnings.” “Most people aren’t aware that only 20 percent of family pets are obtained from shelters each year,” says MCSPCA Executive Director, Ursula Goetz. “One of our goals in developing our new calendar was to let people see what wonderful companions can be found at the Monmouth County SPCA. And hopefully, the next time they’re looking for a new best friend, they’ll think of us.” The “New Beginnings” calendar was the brainchild of the organization’s Coalition for Caring, a group of six volunteers that was formed last year to help the MCSPCA with fundraising and community awareness. The group tapped noted pet photographer, Kim Levin, who volunteered her time to take pictures of the eight dogs, five cats and one guinea pig whose stories are told in the calendar. And, to assure that all proceeds from the sale of the calendar go directly to the care of the animals, the group solicited sponsors whose donations covered the cost of production. Coalition member, Laurie Garrison, explains how the idea developed, “We were looking for a project that would raise money for the animals while at the same time encourage people to come to the Monmouth County SPCA to adopt. The “New Beginnings” calendar just seemed to be a perfect fit. We know that people love to hear about our happy tales. And thanks to Kim Levin’s beautiful photography and stunning graphic design by our Coalition member, Maryann Small, we think it’s something every pet lover will enjoy.” The group is so pleased with the finished product and the reception they’ve received from the public so far that they plan to make the calendar an annual event, with different alumni pets featured each year. “I can’t think of a better way to spread the word about the great pets we have at the Monmouth County SPCA,” says Goetz. “We’re just thrilled with how the calendar turned out and we think the public will be thrilled with it, too.” To read the tales of “New Beginnings,” you can purchase the group’s calendar for $10 on their website, www.monmouthcountyspca.org, as well as at their animal care center located at 260 Wall Street in Eatontown. For more information, call 732-542-2030.
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(first of a three part series) by Robert J. Riker The Monmouth County Freeholders built and opened a three-slip $20 million ferry terminal in Belford in October of 2002. The County provided on-site parking for over 930 cars since opening day. The future of this facility depends on the County’s ability to maintain and enlarge that capacity. Its future also depends on the ability and desire of the County’s ferry operating agent, NY Waterway, to maintain and improve its ferry service at Belford. This article will focus on the County activities that will impact the future of the Bayshore Ferry Terminal. Last February, the US Army Corps of Engineers opened an "enforcement case" for permit infractions at Belford and directed the County to stop using the 230-car parking lot the County had constructed on the site permitted for an "Interpretive Center." (Reducing parking capacity to 700 cars would probably have diverted at least 230 commuters back to the competing ferry operator.) In early October, the Corps accepted a County proposal to resolve that enforcement case. Under the terms of that proposal, the County would continue to use the 230-car lot until a new 400 car lot is built and placed in service. At that time, the parking substrate for the 230-car lot would be removed and replaced with soil which would be seeded. If funding for the Interpretive Center cannot then be found within 24 months, the Corps could require the County to restore the area to its pre-project status. The County’s proposal also stipulated that it would pay $10,000 in penalties for its breaches of the permit. The first $5,000 check has been paid and will be included with the bills for goods and services the Freeholders will approve at their first meeting after the election. Also in October, the Freeholders awarded a $500,000 contract to Birdsall Engineering to design the 400 additional parking spaces. This contract also provides designs for channel improvements that are not eligible for state or federal transportation funding. The half million, however, is all federally funded. The parking space designs should be completed early next year. If funding is available for an immediate award of a construction contract, Belford may achieve a net increase of 170 parking spaces within 18 months. A more realistic estimate might be two or three years. From the Freeholders’ perspective, the future has been brightened by their success in turning away a threat that would have reduced the capacity of their Belford facility by 25%. Within two or three years they might expand that capacity by almost 20%. There are few other bright prospects. Since virtually all remaining areas of the site have deed restrictions against development, no further expansion will ever be practical. Since Belford is at capacity now, all near-term growth will be at competing Bayshore facilities. By the time 170 spaces can be added at Belford, the unsubsidized SeaStreak will likely have added many more riders. The County facility could never capture 50% of the Bayshore market. Because of the economies of scale in ferry operations, the ability to expand is more important to a ferry facility than to most other commercial enterprises. Belford’s future is threatened by much more than its physical limitations, however. The future success of any facility conceived, designed, funded, built and operated by government entities depends upon a continuum of the political powers that led to its construction. Belford’s creation required elected officials in Washington, Trenton, and Freehold to make false statements, bend the laws and , on occasion, even break them. The justification for using public funds to build Belford was to remove cars from our congested highways. All Belford’s ridership has come from other unsubsidized Bayshore ferry operations. Belford did not remove cars from the roads. Future political support could therefore be endangered. And it is always possible that the electorate might see fit to break up the consortium behind any particular political project. The ability and desire of the County’s ferry operating agent, NY Waterway, to provide service at Belford will be the most critical element in shaping the facility’s future. That will be the subject of the next article.
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By Carol MacAllister Do you have need a quick fix diet to shape up for the holidays? Here are four trendy choices: Atkins, South Beach, Zone, Low-Fat. The controversial and long-standing Dr. Atkins' diet is extremely popular. Dieters seem to shed pounds fast and eat foods, like whipped cream, that are seldom allowed on an ordinary. Food choices include lots of protein and fat and a scant amount of carbohydrates. When our body needs energy, it first burns carbohydrates, then fats. With little or no carbohydrates available, the body burns fat for energy, thus, the dieter loses weight. Once the pounds are shed, the Atkins diet reintroduces fiber-rich carbohydrates to the maximum daily limit of 40 grams but refined sugars and white flour remain on the forbidden list. Further Reference: Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution, Dr. Robert Atkins The new South Beach Diet book is stacked high in stores. It combines Dr. Atkins' advise to restrict carbohydrates with additional cardiovascular health aspects. The Gylcemic Index: GI rates foods' ability to raise blood-sugar levels and is the diet's focal point. Foods that have a low GI number create less hunger and fewer cravings. Higher GI numbers are associated with simple carbohydrates found in pasta, potatoes and the tempting bread-basket! Keeping insulin levels low is key. Fiber-rich foods are encouraged and unlike Atkins, vegetables and fruit are welcome, but whole as versus juice, sliced or diced. To avoid drops in blood sugars and increasing hunger that might cause you to slip and eat bad carbohydrates by lunchtime, breakfast must be eaten Further Reference: The South Beach Diet, Arthur Agatston, MD Dr. Dean Ornish developed a high fiber, low-fat vegetarian based program to reverse heart disease, such as blockages, without the need for surgery or drugs. He combines 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, stress management and diet. Calorie counting is not important. Foods are divided into three main categories: (1) ones that can be eaten all of the time, (2) in moderation, (3) never. If the lists of foods are followed, less then 10% of your calories will come from fat. Although, following Ornish's diet makes you feel hungry often, he suggests eating small amounts of food frequently. In fact, you can eat as often as you care to and all that you want as long as you select from the correct food groupings: you will loose weight and gain more energy. Further Reference: Eat More, Weigh Less, D. Ornish, MD Food on the Zone diet is a combination of 30% protein, 30% fat and 40% carbohydrates. This ratio is said to create a metabolic state that helps the body work at peak efficiency. Athletic people and those concerned about heart disease or diabetes are encouraged by Barry Sears, Ph.D. to follow his plan. His theory is to control the body's production of insulin, a hormone that regulates the storage of excess energy as fat. The program is specific and complicated but the broad range of food choices can be pleasantly surprising: high-fat ice cream (1/2 cup), olive oil, avocados and macadamia nuts. Further Reference: The Zone, Barry Sears, PhD. Of course, the old standby of reducing caloric intake to 1,000-1,500 daily and eating a balanced diet that includes all the food groups is effective and easy. Combine counting calories with a pleasant stroll along the ocean. Within a few weeks you'll fit into that holiday outfit, enjoy yourself and worry about loosing the new holiday pounds on January 2nd 2004! Be smart: Check with a doctor before dieting to make sure your diet choice is suitable for your present state of health. Enjoy!
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WHERE IS THE TRUTH DURING POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS? This week the campaign for political offices intensifies. From national to local positions, candidates speak, and distribute information that contains charts, statistics and testimonies. Those of us who are in pastoral positions are blessed to have Democrats, Libertarians and Republicans in our churches. As a historian and a political buff who arrived in this country as a teenager in 1966, and had the opportunity to live in Detroit, in suburbs of Boston and Chicago and now in Atlantic Highlands, I am surprised how truth is in small quantities during the election campaigns. I am also of the belief that every profession is sacred and those who are involved in politics part time or full time have a sacred duty to do their politicking as unto the Lord. In the book of Proverbs 14:34 we read; “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to many people.” I have asked myself how often the person making the political advertisement and the political organization which paid for the ad knew that they had nary a drop of truth in all they have said. In fact, many political consultants state that it is not the message that is of utmost importance, but how well you can denigrate the competition that is of utmost importance. In the Democratic circles the best political campaign strategist is James Carville. His bio shows that he has been instrumental in electing people to state and national offices since 1986. Among his best known clients are former Governor of Pennsylvania Robert Casey, former President Clinton and the New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg. He has also been involved in politics in Greece, England, Germany and Israel. On the Republican side the best political campaign strategist was Lee Atwater. Among his clients he had Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. Atwater died of a brain tumor in March 29, 1991. When he found out that he had a brain tumor from which he subsequently died, he started to write letters to many political people asking their forgiveness because he denigrated them in his political campaigns. Atwater concluded that he could not encounter his Creator knowing that he sidetracked so many lives and he destroyed others by doing something at which many people considered him the best. When I listen to some of the advertisements that Carville creates, I am asking myself, when he will start repenting of all the mudslinging that he distributes in such large quantities? I pray that during this electioneering time my political friends will be able to take their political platform and advertisements and present them before God. Would God give his imprimatur on your platform? Would God OK your advertisements? Remember righteousness will exalt you and the community that you plan to serve. May you experience God’s favor in this political election.
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----PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT---- VOTE ON TUESDAY IS ABOUT LEADERSHIP Political signs being removed in the middle of the night. Followed closely by allegations of political payoffs from a First Avenue business to the Republican candidate. These are just some of the desperate tactics employed by the sorry leadership of the Atlantic Highlands Democratic party in the waning days of this year’s election. Sadly, these are just the latest examples of why many good people hesitate to run for local office. As a political leader, you can do many good things for your community. But that good comes with a price. Generally, that price gets paid around Election Day when the voters are fed lies, innuendo and worse as opponents look for ways to win. It’s up to the voters to decide what’s real and what’s imaginary. And ultimately, though the elected officials technically win, a vote on Tuesday is a vote for what lies ahead for the people of Atlantic Highlands. For Atlantic Highlands residents, a vote for me will bring a future marked with dignity and respect. Under my leadership, our town will continue to make strides forward and it will be a place that we point to with pride. We will promote Atlantic Highlands as a great place to live and invest, and we will make decisions that are in the best long- term interest of the fine people who call our town home. My choice of running mates is an indication of the types of decisions that you can expect. Marty Shann has spent countless hours volunteering for our town, and he brings enthusiasm to each of his endeavors. Not only is Debbie Traphagen a successful businesswoman, but also you can find her at every fundraiser for our emergency services personnel. One person can’t run Atlantic Highlands. A Mayor needs a good team to be successful. I’ve found that team with Marty and Debbie. To that end, the vote on Tuesday is about leadership. Republican leadership has brought Atlantic Highlands to prosperity and my team has no intention of diverting from that path. We have heard a lot about change from our opponents, but they have failed to offer specific plans. The voter deserves to know something about their future, and we believe that our agenda is the right one for Atlantic Highlands. With your vote on Tuesday, you can reject the gutter politics of Joe Hawley and his Democratic candidates, and you can vote for the team – the Republican team - that will continue to make Atlantic Highlands a great place to live. Paid for by the AHGOP Campaign Committee
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YOU SAY, "GOOSEY NIGHT" AND I SAY, "MISCHIEF NIGHT" Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off I never understood the purpose of Mischief Night. I guess I’m a “builder” by nature, not a “destroyer.” What kind of kid could go out the night before Halloween and throw eggs at cars and houses, string toilet paper from trees, soap windows, bang flour-filled socks on the ground, squirt shaving cream on everything (and everyone) in their path, and leave flaming doggie pooh in paper bags outside of people’s front doors? The kind of kid that my parents wouldn’t let me hang around with. I just know that some of the kids who tried to destroy our house on Mischief Night showed up at our front door the next day and expected candy. No wonder they were wearing masks. I hear that, these days, some kids leave Fruit Loops on lawns. God forbid there should be rain in the forecast. Others take their TV remotes and change the channels on their neighbors’ televisions. More sadistic types substitute Nair for shaving cream. But we should be thankful that we don’t live in the 19th century. Kids back in those days used to overturn outhouses. I can’t even imagine being the pour soul who happened to be sitting in there when that happened! We should also be happy that we didn’t live in Southbridge, MA, in the 1920’s. There was a lot of horse manure flying around on Mischief Night in that town. And if you owned a cow, there was a good chance it would be missing from your barn the next morning. It’s a good thing, too, that none of us lived in Detroit in 1985 on Devil’s Night. That’s what they call the night before Halloween in that city. And for good reason. There’s a history in that town of setting fires all over the city. That year 297 Devil’s Night fires were set. Maybe if you got caught, you could claim that “the devil made you do it.” So, how did Mischief Night or Devil’s Night or Goosey Night (which is what I hear they call it in Paterson, Wayne, and Clifton, NJ) or Cabbage Night (which is what I hear they call it out in the rural country) or Beggar’s Night (which is what I hear they call it in Albany, NY) start anyway? It all started with Halloween around 500 B.C. in a place that is now Great Britain, France, Scotland and Ireland. October 31st was the beginning of the Celtic New Year and marked the end of summer. The Druids believed that, on that one day of the year, all of the spirits, elves, and fairies were allowed to walk the earth. More than that, they were allowed to meddle in the affairs of the living. To appease these ghosts and monsters, the Druids made huge bonfires, sacrificed animals, made food offerings, and held celebrations. Christians weren’t able to do away with the pagan holiday altogether, so they made November 1st All Saints Day and proclaimed October 31st “All Hallow’s Eve.” The poor would go around and beg from door to door on that night. The Irish and Scottish immigrants brought the tradition of Mischief Night to America, when they came here during the 1800’s. They would play pranks and create mischief and then blame it on witches, ghosts and goblins the next day. Mischief Night doesn’t seem to be nearly as popular these days as it was when I was growing up in Newark, NJ. I wonder why that is. Maybe it’s because all the kids who were creating mischief back then are now grown up with their own property to protect. And let’s face it; it’s a lot more fun to throw an egg at a car window on Mischief Night than it is to have to be the one to clean it off on Halloween morning.
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BALANCE In the past 40 years I have on many occasions sought out the help of various professionals to deal with problems of the heart, mind, body or business. Certainly dealing with physical problems such as injuries or learning how to train for a sport always turned out to be easier than dealing with the heart or mind issues. Business ran a close second to the ladder. I learned from a psychologist that most people could solve their own problems over a period of time or expedite the process 7 times faster with professional help. Having an “A” type personality did not allow me the luxury of taking my time to resolve my own problems so I always felt comfortable seeking help. One very smart psychologist tried to teach me the principal of balance, a real feat for a restaurateur/workaholic. She told me to draw three circles about three inches in diameter with the lines intersecting each other by about a ¼ of and inch. Each circle represented 1/3 of my life. The first circle was my business life. The second was my family, friends and loved ones. The third was my vacation time. She told me it was my job to try and keep these circles all about the same size or in balance of each other. By keeping these circles in balance our lives would be richer and fuller. In the early stages of our lives men will spend more time in the business circle then in the other two. They are creating a career and building a home for their family. Women, if not in business, will spend more time on the family and loved ones. All of us neglect the third circle, vacation. This does not necessarily mean going away on a vacation but could mean reading a book, going to a gym, a walk on the beach or taking private time for yourself and/or your loved one. Being single and the workaholic that I am my second and third circles were overlooked for years. We are all coming to a time in our lives where the realization that family, loved ones and friends are the most important thing in our lives. Taking “vacation” time for ourselves is needed to rest our hearts and minds. Time goes all too quickly and each day is not a dress rehearsal. Balance in life is something I would love to achieve. I think it is harder to acquire when you are single than when you have someone in you life to share that life with. I guess I will continue to struggle with balance until that “needle in the hay stack arrives.”
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‘ILLEGALS’ KILLING AMERICA ! America is losing the war on illegal immigrants destroying America’s culture and freedoms. While President George Bush is fighting the war against terror throughout the world, he is ignoring the more than 6 to 8 million illegal immigrants who have invaded America, many of them committed to wiping out our nation’s socioeconomic system. The terrorists who successfully attacked America’s economic and military institutions on September 11, 2001, killing 3,000 innocent people, were illegal immigrants who got into our country and disappeared into a liberal society that has given up the war to protect our borders. Bush wants “freedom and liberty” for the people of Iraq, Israel and other
Mideast nations, but he is doing nothing about “freedom and liberty” in America,
once the world’s most admired free and independent nation. Like his socialist predecessors – Clinton, et al – Bush believes in moving America into a one-world economic system, or a global economy. A global economy doesn’t recognize borders or a nation’s Constitution (if they have one). Most nations are dictatorships or socialist/Marxist governments. America, since its founding after the 1776 Revolutionary War, was a Constitutional Republic governed by the “rule of law.” That’s history. America is no longer a free and independent Constitutional Republic. It has become the leader of a socialist global economy. By going along with the liberals and socialists who have created a corrupt global economy, America has sealed its fate. We are doomed to go the way of France, Germany, Russia and other socialist nations that look to the United Nations as the world’s leader, not the United States. Why has Bush chosen to take America down the road to socialism and self-destruction as the last “free and independent” nation in the world with a Constitution that guarantees our independence and freedom? Because it’s the popular and easy thing to do in these swiftly changing times, where the Peaceniks and their beloved United Nations (UN) are setting foreign policy for the world, including the United States. America, under UN control, is no longer a sovereign state. If Bush truly believed in freedom and independence, he would kick the United Nations out of the United States and put that Marxist institution in Russia, Cuba or the communist Peoples Republic of China. That’s where this dysfunctional, anti-American United Nations belongs. Like a cancer, the United Nations is liberalizing and socializing the world, with or without the United States. Illegal immigrants now living, working and undermining America’s culture don’t have to worry about Bush or any President any more. They’re here to stay, like it or not. Any illegal immigrant can enter America, go to the nearest big city and buy a pack of credentials that instantly make them a “legal American.” So much for our immigration laws. They’re so much worthless bureaucratic
paperwork. That’s how Al Gore was able to get a half-million more votes than Bush in the 2,000 Presidential election, especially in California. The illegal, with their illegal driver’s license, cast their votes for their socialist Democrat candidate, Al Gore. Every state in America should check the ballots and find out how many illegals actually voted for Gore in the last Presidential election. Meanwhile, George W. Bush may also be influenced by his family’s ties to Mexico. Bush’s brother Jeb, the Governor of Florida, is married to a Mexican woman. They have several children. President Bush needs the Mexican votes if he is going to run for reelection next year. The greatest number of illegal immigrants are Mexicans. We live in a wild and deceptive world where lies and cheating have become the standard for survival everywhere, especially America. Until we reclaim our Constitution and the “rule of law,” America will implode like other empires, such as the Greeks and Romans, that ignored rampant corruption in their ruthlessly expanding governments. Hey, that’s history – and the United States hasn’t learned anything from the anti-freedom failures of the past. (Gordon Bishop is a national award-winning author, historian and syndicated columnist.) ../bishop/2003/gb031030_illegals.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
WHEN THE DREAM BECOMES A NIGHTMARE: RELIVING PROHIBITION The Prohibition era (1919-’33) was so long ago that only people now over 85 experienced it directly. Most younger Americans think Prohibition happened because screwball Fundamentalists somehow got the Constitution amended to make drinking illegal. But much of this impression is fundamentally wrong. The Volstead Act (i.e., the 18th Amendment) was ratified in an orderly way between 1917 and 1919 by the legislatures of ¾ of the states. Also, it did not make drinking illegal. Prohibition actually made all commerce involving alcoholic beverages illegal. Individuals could make quantities of their own hootch and drink themselves silly, if they wanted to. But they couldn’t buy the stuff, sell it, or transport it without being illegal. Our enduring impressions of the Prohibition era are cinematic and documentary images of machine-gun battles between cops and hoods, careering Packard touring cars, flappers dancing the hootchy-kootch in elegant speakeasies, and grim-faced Feds chopping barrels and watching bootleg beer run into the gutter. But these popular images were just minor sideshows in the nation-changing drama that was Prohibition. The real story of Prohibition was corruption on a scale so vast that it changed America forever. The 1987 film, The Untouchables, probably came closest to a realistic picture of the pervasive corruption at every level of society, including police, local government officials, merchants, journalists, and citizens. Much of this was airbrushed out of the 1950s Untouchables TV series, since many original participants were still living and might have been embarrassed by full disclosure. (This would have included Ambassador Joseph Kennedy, JFK’s father, who made millions importing illegal booze from Europe in the ‘20s.) Society was thoroughly (some historians say “irredeemably”) corrupted by money from the sale of illegal alcohol. Some communities even kept public salaries artificially low in anticipation of the significant income they expected police and other officials to reap from payoffs, bribes and other monies. Bigshot criminals like Al Capone, Meyer Lansky and Frank Nitti evaded local prosecution via layers of protection furnished by individuals, officials and whole government agencies on the take. Although Capone was convicted of Federal income tax evasion, he never faced an accounting for his Volstead Act crimes – to say nothing of his manifest complicity in murder, bribery, theft, assault and conspiracy. (Lansky was never successfully prosecuted; Nitti served only two years for income tax evasion.) The corruption/protection problem was solved only when the 21st Amendment repealed the Volstead Act, taking the money (and the motivation for protecting criminals) away from citizens and public officials. Banning a commodity which enjoyed great popularity in American society was arguably a serious societal overreach. Many historians agree. But there is room to argue that Prohibition might have succeeded if so much of society had not been corrupted into complicity in the law’s undoing. The modern parallel to Prohibition obviously would be the decades-long war on illegal drugs. The vast sums of corrupting money and grisly violence certainly evoke the Prohibition era. However, the market for this commodity is much smaller than the booze market. Also, mere possession is a crime. Thus, public antipathy keeps drugs illegal, even though only a Federal statute – not a Constitutional provision – stands athwart legalization. A less recognized modern parallel to Prohibition is Illegal Immigration. As during Prohibition, the law is ignored at every societal and political level. The vast demand for “illegals” explains why. Generally, Americans are indifferent to immigration lawbreaking, regarding it as a “victimless crime” on the order of running a red light – a trivial flaunting of Federal regulations that seems unrelated to them. Some citizens believe improving the lot of “undocumented” people is compassionate and humanitarian work, and actively support it. Others live in a kind of “dream universe”, believing that government is truly working to keep our borders and our body politic secure. And above all this, state and local officials dance round the “illegality” of illegals with a facility that would have made Bugsy Siegel proud. Honest people can disagree about whether Prohibition was a Noble Experiment or an over-ambitious attempt to control an uncontrollable thirst shared by nearly every society in recorded history. I wasn’t raised in a drinking family, so I don’t care much about beer or wine. But as a grown man I can see a serious lack of realism in trying to restrict a commodity desired by so much of the population. Similarly, we can disagree about keeping drugs illegal – although it is much harder to advocate complete decontrol because of their extreme destructiveness and the danger they pose to children. Years ago I wrote an article calling for legalizing drugs but advocating control of who gets them and in what quantity. I wanted to remove the profit from the black market and save the vast sums we spend on police, counselors, lawyers, prosecutors, bailiffs, clerks of court, judges, medical personnel and facilities, etc. – all retained because of the war on drugs. Some good people in these jobs denounced my proposal. Later, I realized they saw it as a threat to their occupations. I wondered how they might regard a foolproof cure for drug addiction, should one be discovered. (Compassion is one thing – finding yourself out of work is another.) In the end, most things reduce to money or power. People often grasp an idea or practice or philosophy, not because it is right or true or productive (although it may be), but because their livelihoods depend on it. This same dynamic drives support for illegal immigration. It is all about money. For businessmen, illegals represent a supply of cheap labor that can be exploited with relative impunity. Employers pay them low wages and sometimes don’t forward their withheld taxes to the government, knowing that illegals will never file tax returns. More ethical businessmen, like a builder I know, say most illegals are conscientious and honest workers who fill an important labor-niche. Well-to-do homeowners like the low rates illegals charge for yard work and repairs. In illegals, educators see jobs and money for public schools. California educates millions of illegals’ children. Californians tried to stop this by passing Proposition 187, but the State Supreme Court overturned it. California education and welfare costs for illegals run to some $12 billion a year – from a state budget currently $38 billion in deficit. This was one of the major factors that cost Gov. Gray Davis his job in the October 7th Recall Election. Politicians – blithely speaking of “undocumented” persons as though they had merely forgotten their pool passes – also find illegals useful. Democrats see visions of new ethnic voters in the Democrat column. President Bush, sympatico with immigrants, tries to align them with the Republican Party by catering to their interests. Both parties are pushing legislation to assist illegals at the state and Federal level. One such piece of legislation – the so-called DREAM Act – was recently reported out of the Senate Judiciary Committee by a bi-partisan vote of 16-3. It grants illegals’ children a six-year non-deportation grace period to attend college or serve in the U.S. armed services. A young illegal who spends two years doing either of these becomes eligible for permanent legal residence in the USA. The bill also allows states to apply in-state tuition rates to illegals at state colleges and universities – reversing a ban on this practice in the 1996 Immigration Reform Act. Supporters (from both national parties) claim the legislation is compassionate and humanitarian, as well as pro-child, pro-education and pro-USA. They say it makes the best of a bad situation by helping children who are here illegally by their parents’ choice. A poorly educated child growing into an unskilled adult, they argue, will not help the country. (True.) Opponents rejoin that this “amnesty by another name” rewards illegality and slaps the collective face of immigrants and citizens who play by the rules. They say in-state tuition rates will advantage illegals over citizens who must pay higher tuition rates if they attend an out-of-state college. (Also true.) One radio commentator noted that college places are a finite commodity. So every illegal admitted to a college replaces a US citizen who might have had that slot. The country is not helped, said one caller, when politicians and officials undermine our immigration laws and reward people who cheat. Another caller suggested that it will make sense to “…go to Mexico, then sneak back across the border as an illegal in order to qualify for special educational perks”. (True as well.) Thus, we are reliving the Prohibition era. No speeding Packards or gun battles, but plenty of corruption over money and votes, and copious undermining of the law. Many Americans seem not to comprehend that uncontrolled illegal immigration will cost:
After we increase our local taxes to educate the children of illegals, those children will compete with ours for entry to colleges and universities. They will pay lower tuition if admitted. Illegals who get driving licenses can easily sign up to vote via the Motor Voter provision. They will be able to vanish inside our vast country, and no one will know where they are or what they are doing. (Not every illegal does cheap yard work and has adorable children.) Excepting Native Americans, every American either is an immigrant or has ancestors who immigrated. So we are naturally sympathetic toward people who seek a better life. We are a generous people and a generous country. But we are also a nation of laws. Most of our forebears obeyed those laws when they came here. We know this, so we are conflicted about illegals. We realize we cannot let the whole world in. And we viscerally dislike seeing people get ahead by cheating. So the jury remains out. Will the American people give up on immigration law (as they did on Prohibition), throw open the borders, and see their American Dream diminished and diluted? Or will they decide to retake their own country? Americans don’t have the patience for long wars, but I believe many are beginning to sense that this one is for keeps.
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BEACHWAY REPAVING, 10/25 RESULTS AND COUNCIL ACTION First for this week, I would like to make all residents aware that Beachway will be partially closed from Laurel Avenue to Oakwood Place from November 1 to November 3 for a repaving project. Parking for affected homeowners will be provided in the large municipal lot during the times when the streets are blocked off for construction. Well as I had been saying in previous articles Saturday 10/25 was a very busy day. I started out at 8:15 AM heading over to public works to pick up supplies for the Clean Ocean Action beach sweeps. Then down to bay walk west I went to wait. I was there ahead of time and at 9 AM the first car pulled into the lot by about 9:15 we had assembled about 30 adults and children to help clean our beaches. One of strangest items we found this year was a 32 inch Samsung TV Set also we found a piece of a car bumper and a discharged fire extinguisher. The people at bay walk west included members of the Keansburg High School Key Club and the Science Club, Members of troop 136 for the Lillian Drive School in Hazlet, members of council and local residents.
The next event that day was the fourth annual Halloween Monster Bash. Registration for this event started at 4 PM and more then 200 children registered for the costume parade. In addition to the children 9 pets were registered and in costume for the judges. All together including children, parents, guardians and others I would say that there were well in excess of 500 people at the event.
Lastly I will briefly cover some action taken during the council meeting of 10/23, I will cover it more in depth next week. For this week, I would just like to talk about the ordinances passed or introduced at this past council meeting. Four ordinances were passed as follows: Ordinance 1346 approved a bond for the boroughs share of the Waterfront Bicycle and Pedestrian pathway; Ordinance 1347 approved a bond for the boroughs share of the Raritan Avenue Reconstruction Project and Ordinance1348 approved a bond for the boroughs share of the Laurel Avenue reconstruction project. In addition to those three, Ordinance 1350 was approved to adopt a Public Health Nuisance code. Two ordinances were introduced and set down for public hearings at the council meeting on 11/13 at 7 PM. Ordinance 1351 for the new Waterfront Park and Ordinance 1352 for the boroughs share of the Supplemental Appropriation for Lights at St. John's Park. Upcoming Council meetings. Due to Thanksgiving the only regularly scheduled meeting of the Keansburg Borough council for November will be on Thursday 11/13 at 7 PM. Upcoming Borough Events. Basketball Sign Ups - The Keansburg Youth Association is having basketball registrations. By the time this is published, you will be down to the last two days to sign up your children! Sign Ups will be only Thursday from 7 PM to 9 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Manning Place Firehouse. For more information, please click on the link to the Keansburg Youth Association web site. www.KeansburgYouth.com Holiday Tree Lighting - The tentative date of Keansburg's annual holiday tree lighting will be Tuesday December 9 at 7 PM in Friendship Park. At this point, the date is only tentative because we are just starting on the arrangements for the day.
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ELECTION DAY IS AROUND THE CORNER Election day is upon us, and we all have to make important decisions. For physicians, the decision is an easy one as this has become a one issue race. As most readers are aware, the most important issue for doctors is tort reform for medical liability insurance. More specifically, New Jersey physicians are concerned about whether or not a particular politician supports caps on medical malpractice awards. Without caps, medical malpractice insurance rates will continue to rise, and will continue to drive good doctors out of our state. Ever since the New Jersey Assembly took their summer break after failing to pass the senate version of bill A-50 (the physician compromise bill for tort reform), doctors from all over the state have been politically active, working hard to change the balance of power in the state Assembly to make the legislature more physician friendly. Unfortunately, the survival of medicine in our state, and the preservation of New Jersey doctors as well as the continued delivery of quality health care has become a partisan issue. The Republican party has pledged their support for doctors and has voted unanimously to support caps on pain and suffering awards. The Democrats have decided to be true to their financial supporters (the trial attorneys) and have failed to support physicians in almost 100% of the districts. Because of this, physicians have lobbied in key legislative districts, going door to door, explaining the importance of changing the balance of power in the New Jersey Legislature in order to preserve medicine in our great state. The physicians of Monmouth and Ocean Counties have been active in the 14th legislative district and have been endorsing William Baroni and Sidna Mitchell as candidates for the Assembly. They have also been supporting Republican candidates in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in order to assure support of the tort reform bill when it is once again heard in the legislature. This is our last chance to save medicine and preserve the public's access to quality health care in New Jersey. It is necessary for everyone to get out and vote on November 4th. It is also necessary for everyone to ask themselves where the candidates stand on the issues. If preserving your right to quality health care is as important to you as it is to us, then you must vote for the Republican candidate in your district. The choice is simple.
Email-
Aldozac@netzero.net
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IT'S THE GREAT PUMPKIN According to an Irish myth, one day a man known as “Stingy Jack” for his miserly inclinations had a drink with the devil. True to his name, Jack convinced the devil to transform himself into a coin in order to pay for the drinks. The devil did so but Jack kept the coin for himself. He placed it in his pocket next to a cross so the devil could not change back. Jack then freed the devil under the conditions that he would not bother him for a year and could not claim his soul upon his death. The following year, Jack trapped the devil in a tree by carving a cross on its trunk. This time Jack received ten years of immunity for the devil’s release. During that decade Jack died but heaven refused to allow such a shady character into its eternal splendor. The devil, bound by their first agreement, could not accept him into Hell. Thus, the devil sent Jack out into the night with a solitary burning coal to light his way. Jack placed the coal in a carved out turnip and proceeded to spend eternity roaming the earth. Jack’s ghost then became known as “Jack of the Lantern.” People in Ireland and Scotland made their own jack-o-lanterns by carving scary faces in turnips and potatoes to scare Jack and similar ghostly riff raff away. When the colonists came to America, the Indians provided them with the ultimate jack-o-lantern: the pumpkin. Pumpkins are fruits from the gourd family and originated in Central America. As stated, the Native Americans introduced them to the early colonists and they have been a Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas favorite ever since. The colonists made the first pumpkin pies in the 1600’s. However, pumpkins are also used in soups, bread, and other desserts. They can also be substituted for squash in most recipes. Pumpkins are high in Vitamin A and potassium. Choose specimens that are heavy for the size, are free of soft spots, and still have a stem in tact. Stemless pumpkins will decay faster. They will keep for a month at room temperature or three months in the fridge. The flesh from smaller pumpkins is tenderer than their big brothers. One of my favorite things to do with pumpkins is to roast the seeds. They make a delicious and nutritious snack. The seeds are rich in fiber and vitamins B and E. Preheat your oven to 350. Remove all the seeds from a pumpkin and rinse them thoroughly in hot water, removing as much of the slime as possible. Then spread them out on paper towels and dry them. Some people leave them unwashed, being of the opinion that the pulp adds flavor. I like them clean and dry so the oil used for coating will stick better. Your choice. Toss the seeds in a bowl with vegetable oil and salt to taste. Spread them out in an even layer on a baking sheet and roast them until they’re browned. There are a zillion variables that will affect how long it takes so I’m not going to quote a time frame. OK, maybe a half hour or so. Keep an eye on them since they can go from done to burnt rather quickly. I check on them periodically, swirl them around to ensure even roasting, and add a little more salt with each swirl. Here’s a recipe for pumpkin soup. It comes from Jon Gatewood, the executive chef of Emma’s restaurant in the Silas Griffith Inn in Danby, Vermont. PUMPKIN BISQUE 4 cups pumpkin pulp, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped Peel the pumpkin, cut out the pulp and chop. Briefly sauté the pulp, leek, and carrot in butter in a heavy pot. Add the garlic and bay leaf and sauté briefly. Deglaze with wine and reduce slightly. Add water and simmer until the pumpkin is soft, (about 30 minutes). Puree soup with a hand blender or in a regular blender in batches. Strain through a medium sieve. Add cream, maple syrup and seasoning. Note: the water should cover the ingredients by an inch. Adjust the amount accordingly. Also, add the nutmeg last, just before service.
../food/2003/ft_031030_pumpkin.htm VAMPIRE REPELLANT Man has harvested garlic for at least 5,000 years. Horticulturists argue about its exact origins but a popular theory places its genesis in, of all places, Siberia. Modern medicinal claims purport that garlic lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, aids circulation, alleviates coughs and colds, and has anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. Garlic contains vitamins B1, B2, and C, niacin, and a wide variety of minerals including calcium, phosphorous, potassium, selenium, germanium, zinc and manganese. Miracle bulb or not, Americans consume 300 million pounds of garlic each year! The only bad thing that can be said about garlic is it’s odorous side effects. These occur because the essential oils in garlic permeate the lung membranes and are then expelled during exhalation. Garlic’s scent also exudes from our skin. Garlic is a member of the lily family and is related to the onion clan. The most common types of garlic found in the US are the American garlic, (colored white), and the Mexican and Italian garlic which have a purplish or rose colored hue. The American is the most pungent. Elephant garlic is not real garlic and is exceptionally mild. Choose heads that are firm, heavy for their size, and with all their cloves in tact. Store garlic in a cool dry place but never the refrigerator. One of my favorite things to do with garlic is to roast it. At what temperature and for how long depends on whom you ask. An Internet site suggests 325 degrees for an hour and a half. James Peterson’s vegetable book states 350 to 400 for 35 minutes. My CIA (Culinary Institute of America) textbook recommends 425 degrees for 20-30 minutes. Go figure. Just do this. Sprinkle the head with olive oil, loosely wrap it in foil, and stick it in the oven until the cloves are soft. The end result is magnificent. You can squeeze the garlic out of its paper jackets like thick butter and spread it on everything imaginable. Distribute it under the skin of a chicken before roasting. Smother your steak or pork chops with it. Or, for a healthy, low-fat, and tasty vegetable alternative, steam your vegetables and then cover them with the roasted garlic. You could even temporarily convert me to healthy eating this way. Speaking of healthy eating, here are a number of ways of making garlic bread, from lowest to highest calories. For totally guilt free garlic bread, simply spread the roasted garlic on toasted slices of bread with no butter or oil. It won’t be very rich but it will still be delicious. For semi-decadence, you can sauté chopped garlic in olive oil and then spread it on the bread and toast it. Here you’ll pick up some calories but at least the olive oil, devoid of saturated fat, has some health benefits. If you’re in my camp, then you believe we should invert the food guide pyramid and laugh in the face of death. Sauté that chopped garlic in butter and then spread it, butter and all on the bread. Another mouth watering alternative is eating garlic raw. I cannot think of a better example than bruschetta. Here is an unequivocally delicious, healthy, and relatively low calorie dish, requiring only a bottle of red to be transformed into a meal in itself. Chop up tomatoes that are at the peak of ripeness. Ripe tomatoes are absolutely essential for that ultimate flavor. Mix in an ample amount of fresh chopped garlic, some basil, kosher salt, and extra virgin olive oil. (I’ll leave the amount of olive oil up to you). Lightly brush your sliced bread with some olive oil, or leave it plain if you like, toast it in the oven, and then coat with the tomato/garlic mix. Yum! Finally, to keep these ideas balanced between the dieters and the indulgers, here’s my recipe for sinfully rich garlic mashed potatoes. 4 Idaho potatoes peeled and chopped into a large dice. Bring the potatoes to a boil and simmer until tender. Finely chop the garlic and simmer it in the cream and butter for about three minutes. Strain the pieces of garlic from the cream. Pass the cooked potatoes through a food mill or a ricer. Add the cream to the potatoes and mix until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. And yeah, you can cut back on the amount of cream and butter if need be. ../food/2003/ft_031030_vampire.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
Series on Change 2003 (Part 5) CHANGING YOUR LIFE The phrase, “life-changing experience,” conjures up images of extreme joy or of undue hardship. Therefore, the act of changing your life implies momentous decisions involving career transition, financial risk, and emotional upheaval. Actually, changing your life can be a series of small actions that together lead to big change. These small actions require no resignation letter, no lien on the house, and no melodrama. However, changing your life even in small steps does require an open mind and a willingness to start today. You need an open mind to put yourself first and to not feel selfish about doing so. Your boss, partner, kids and friends will be thrilled because you will be so much more fun to be around. Small actions that put yourself first: book that doctor’s appointment for whatever has been ailing you and, if nothing ails you, get a physical; finally book that eye checkup; see a live show or sporting event and savor the rush of the crowd around you; rent that movie, read that book, or visit that museum on your I’ve-always-wanted-to list; eat your favorite food slowly; put an object of beauty (e.g., flowers, painting) in your workspace; reserve a three-day weekend with no plans; take care of a nuisance on your I-must-attend-to-that list (e.g., tailor those pants, frame that photo); open a retirement account or stick an extra $50 in your existing one; write a thank you letter to your partner/kid/best friend (yes, even this one’s for you b/c it will remind you how lucky you are); enter appointments in next year’s planner for next year’s dates with yourself. You need to start today because change feeds on momentum. Lack of change feeds on inertia. If you get moving now, whatever baby step you choose, you put the process in place. Plan one small action each day. In a week, you’ll feel energized. In a month, you’ll be renewed. In a year, you will have 365 rich experiences that you made happen, and you will recognize your power to change your life in the direction you choose. 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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ARE WE FATTER THAN THE AVERAGE BEAR? Here comes news on another study of us older folks. They keep studying us but they never seem to be able to get us to pass the test. They always have us failing something. This time it's the fat test. Dr. Andrew Weil reports that a recent study of our generation shows that city dwellers are slimmer than we are. What? Yes it's so. We are on average six pounds heavier, more likely to be obese, and also more apt to have high blood pressure. So what is the urbanites' advantage? Why it's walking more and driving less. Seeing more people also makes them more socially interactive. Dr. Weil suggests that the ideal community of the future would give consideration to sidewalks, bike paths, green space, safe street crossings, and all the factors that promote social interactivity. He must have been looking over my shoulder as I read the four page color insert in Tuesday's "Asbury Park Press." It depicted Middletown's Town Square. That's reason enough to look forward to a hometown kind of comfort that is built right into plans for Main Street, Middletown. We have been separated and isolated in our far-flung villages like the separate spokes on a wheel. The Town Square provides the much-needed hub, and will enable that wheel to turn with a real hometown spirit. I hear just that kind of longing in many of us who don't want to take our exercise by lonesome walks around the block, or by traveling to early morning planned, boring traverses of an indoor shopping mall. What a wonderful prospect to be able to walk pleasant streets, sit at outdoor cafes, or on park benches, delight in the walking trails, parks, nature center, museums, shops, and movies. What a thrill for the youngsters to enjoy the ice rink, ice hockey rinks, bicycle trails, swimming pool, and ice cream parlors. A real working farm and garden will also reside there. Middletown will get a great big tax ratable to the tune of $4 million, second only to giant AT&T. How about 3000 new jobs to be created? What a boon to this sad economy with its many layoffs. Jobs and lower taxes! A nearby source of pleasure for every age. We can live with that. There's another plus here. I realize it's crass to bring up another study, however those people who do the "bad news" studies say that progression of Alzheimer's Disease is denoted by gradual social isolation and crankiness. EEEW! We can sure avoid that in a nice setting with nice people to raise your spirits while watching the world go by from the sidewalk café. We'll have earned that treat after our brisk walk through our own hometown. More: The most amazing instant cure for a muscle cramp or spasm was given to me at "The Grove" by a lovely woman who was sitting opposite me at Starbuck's. Pinch the small piece of flesh directly beneath your nose just where the cartilage ends. Several nights after she gave me this hint, I remembered to use it and was so instantly gratified. I was amazed. If anyone knows how or why it works, I would love to know. If anyone knows of an equally amazing remedy for a common painful occurrence, please let us know.
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REPORTS OF RIVER, BAY AND OCEAN FISHING This weekend should be a banner weekend for local sportsfishing. The bass are in as well as big bluefish. Most of the stripers are being taken at off the surf and the Sandy Hook Channel ffrom the rip on out. Live eels on fish finder rigs seem to the bait of choice. Trolling with spoons and rigs should provide some action with bigger bass and bluefish. Look for birds off of the beach. John Byren, Fair Haven trolled 3 keeper bass on his 31 regulator "Rambunctious" on Wednesday. He had them up to 25 pounds trolling chandelier rigs down at Shrewsbury Rocks.
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LENAPE WOODS NEEDS YOUR TIME There is no doubt that Lenape Woods Nature Preserve in Atlantic Highlands has had a distinguished human history. For thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans during the 1600s, Native Americans dwelled and hunted for bear and deer in these woods. By the mid-seventeenth century, European settlement had come to the area and trees were an important source of building material and fuel, and the headwaters of Many Mind Creek was a significant source of freshwater. Indeed, residents of northeastern Monmouth County were harvesting the trees in Lenape Woods for fuel and using Many Mind Creek as a source of drinking water perhaps as late as the early 1900s. Unfortunately, by the mid-1900s, most of this landscape had become developed and the woods that one day would become Lenape Woods had become an illegal dumping ground for trash and garbage. Unplanned local development had also helped to pollute Many Mind Creek. When walking through this landscape in the 1980s it was common for anyone to observe piles of beer cans and bottles, rusted washing machines and car parts, tires, and tons of old metal, paper, glass, and rags. Then during the end of the twentieth century, 50 acres of this great landscape that once was a wonderful natural resource for Native Americans and early Europeans had finally been preserved permanently by volunteers and public officials in Atlantic Highlands and the eastern Bayshore region as open space for all species to enjoy. Yet, the notable landscape that is nestled in the eastern hills of the Navesink Highlands and is home to a diverse amount of wild species still needs your help and time. Decades of misuse and mismanagement by past landowners have left a landscape that suffers badly from erosion, invasive species, vandalism, fragmentation, and litter. On Sunday, November 2nd, from 1 – 4pm, the Atlantic Highlands Environmental Commission will host an autumn trail maintenance and cleanup of Lenape Woods Nature Preserve, eastern section. The entrance is located near the corner of Ocean Blvd. and East Highland Avenue. Volunteers will help install trail signs, spread mulch along the trails, remove litter, and prune back vegetation. These activities will help to beautify and improve the ecological health of Lenape Woods for all species to enjoy. Volunteers are asked to bring their own tools to help, such as rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows, weed cutters, and post hole diggers. In addition, volunteers should bring their own gloves and water. The Commission will supply the fresh air and sunshine. I believe there is no better way to spend an autumn weekend than to be outdoors and volunteer your time helping to protect open space. Bring you friends and family this Sunday. You will have a great day in the woods!
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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
A couple of weeks ago, I reviewed Lehane’s Mystic River. I have not had a chance to see the film, but the reviews are running even with my expectations. If you have seen it, feel free to write a review. We’ll compare notes next week. Just before I graduated from college, I realized that I had managed to avoid any serious reading. I did not know one author well enough to discuss his body of work. To correct this, I dove into Herman Hesse. Week after week, book after book, I was determined to find out what this man was trying to say. I did not complete the task, but after four or five books, I felt comfortable to the point of boredom with his message. Then I did it again with James Michener. Book after book was inhaled until I felt that I knew this man. Today, my focus is on Dennis Lehane. Mystic River hooked me. Then I found his mystery/thriller series featuring private investigators Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro. A Drink Before the War by Dennis Lehane I wouldn’t be doing you any favors if I simply related the story line. Since you know that they are private investigators, you could probably figure it out yourself. Boston politician, missing papers, tiny clues lead to big crimes. It’s a genre. In film, it’s noir. But if it’s familiar ground, why read it? This book shows you the differences an author can make. Lehane’s writing is great. The words flow. The action is believable. There are no incredible coincidences that seem to plague the common detective novel. As a matter of fact, Lehane’s Patrick Kenzie has such a poor hand with a gun, he carries the biggest and the scariest he can handle. His theory is that if he every has to use it, he’ll fire every bullet he has with the hope that at least one will hit the target and end the problem. His partner, Angie Gennaro, has been a friend since childhood. They compliment each other. Their stomping grounds are the poor and middle-class suburbs of Boston. They were both raised in Dorchester and never left. On these narrow streets, hope is a dream, not a goal. The crab mentality pulls back on those who try to climb their way out. Crime is the realm of the Irish, who are much like their Italian counterparts in New York but without the qualms. A Drink Before the War is a winner of the Shamus Award from the Private Eye Writers of America. The story does not break any new ground. But it is entertaining and very readable. Next week, I will review the second book in the series – Darkness Take My hand. LeHane continues to expand the details of the lives of Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro. I wonder if Lehane sketched all five of the books before starting the first. For more information, go to
http://www.dennislehanebooks.com/ You would not be the first person to catch the show in the middle of it’s run and wind up wishing that you hadn’t waited so long. The basic premise of 24 is that it runs in real time. One hour of the show is equal to one hour in Jack Bauer’s life. Last night, we met Jack at 1 p.m. Over the winter, we will follow Jack through his day. Sometime in the Spring of ’04, we will see the twenty-fourth episode – the conclusion. The clock in the corner of the screen will relentlessly tick toward 1 p.m. and the series will end for the season. Even my wife, who usually can’t stand these cliffhanger/action/suspense shows, is hooked. My college-age boys have rented seasons one and two just to catch up. It’s a sleeper, folks. Just because it’s Fox doesn’t mean it isn’t great TV. For more information, go to http://www.fox.com/24/ PRINT THIS ARTICLE
ADOPTION-SPEAK Unless you or someone you know has adopted a child, you may not be familiar with the “lingo” associated with adoption. I didn’t know the proper way to label the woman who gave birth to the child we are adopting, for instance, when we first started our adoption journey. Calling her Lucinda’s mother wasn’t right; after all, I was going to be her mother. Miranda at first called her Lucinda’s “real” mother, but that didn’t sit right with us, either. Was she more real than I am? We started to think about definitions of very common words that have lots of emotional meaning. Who is a mother? Who is a father? And who is the one who selflessly gives a child up for adoption? I learned from word of mouth, the most current books, and our social worker with whom we met last summer that there are specific words to use when discussing key people in adoption situations. For instance, the woman who gave birth to Lucinda is Lucinda’s birthmother. I, on the other hand, am Lucinda’s mother, the “real” one. Since those of us who adopt love our children as much if not more than if they were our very own biological offspring, there is no need to call mothers like me “adoptive mothers.” Being a mother regardless of the way it evolves deserves the full title with a capital M! That also goes for everyone else in the family. It’s a no-no to say, “This is Lucinda’s adopted family” when referring to us. We are her family. Period. Whatever would be said to Miranda regarding her relationship to us is equal to what should be said to Lucinda regarding her relationship to us. There is no difference, nor should there be any distinction made how each came to be loved by us. Now does that mean the adoption is ignored? No. Not at all. Lucinda will have a life book that I am making for her that chronicles all of her pictures and all the adoption updates and all the feelings we had waiting for her to come home to us. In the adoption world, a life book is essentially the story of the child from referral to present. Most children have a baby book that chronicles all the “firsts;” this life book is similar. But, like in Lucinda’s case, we don’t know when her very first tooth made its debut, and we don’t know the exact day she learned to sit up independently or even what foods she likes or dislikes. There are lots of unknowns when it comes to adoption. If possible, the foster mother or the orphanage where the child resided during the adoption process fills in those blanks. But if not, then they do not receive blank marks in the baby book. What is celebrated is what is known and what was anticipated during the time you were apart. It gives the child a sense of identity and an acknowledgement about how much he or she was wanted and loved. What do you do when your child is asked to do a family tree project for school? The first thing to do is talk with the teacher. It’s important for educators to realize that not all children know their exact roots. Instead, doing a family circles project includes those who may be adopted without singling them out. Rather than drawing a tree with many branches, one assembles circles to show how each person in a family is related. If all the children do this project instead of the family tree project, everyone is happy and no one’s feelings are hurt. So educating the educators at school is important for those who adopt. Lastly, there’s a day called Gotcha Day that people in adoption circles use to refer to the day they officially became a complete family when the adoption is finalized and the child is finally home. Some in the adoption world don’t like that term. Others adore it. Personally, I think Gotcha Day for me was the day Lucinda jumped into my heart. It was the day I first saw her picture and realized, “Yes, that’s my baby girl!” Those who celebrate Gotcha Day celebrate it as if it were a birthday or anniversary. It is, after all, a very important day to the family and to the child. It shows the child how important he or she is in the family. Just as one would celebrate a birthday, when a child is born, one acknowledges with fanfare the day everyone came together. I’ve heard funny instances where biological brothers and sisters get jealous that they don’t have a Gotcha Day celebration. It’s not unusual, in these families, to have a Gotcha Day to not only celebrate the day of a finalized adoption but also the day the child came home from the hospital and joined the family! Or other families bypass Gotcha Day for Family Day, the day when the family united. Either way, it’s a celebration, a time to mark joy, and a time to reflect on how important everyone is in the family no matter how they became exclusive members. Will people come up to us and/or to Lucinda and ask about her adoption? Most likely, since I hear that from others. What am I supposed to say when nosy people ask, “How much did you pay for her?” and “Why did her mother give her up?” These are typical questions that well-meaning people say when they don’t understand adoption etiquette. Some in the adoption world say to be up front and direct, explaining how those questions are offensive and hurtful. Others say to be evasive or to make a joke to side-step the questions. Others say to be honest. It’s important for those who are ignorant about adoption to educate them. But it’s also important for people to show respect and think twice before asking personal questions. The world of adoption is complicated and, at the same time, very simple when you think about it. Love is Love is Love. It doesn’t really matter the circumstances. So the next time you see a family with children who may not look the same as the parents, remember how special it is that in this great big world, people know no boundaries when it comes to love and family. Moms are moms, Dads are dads, and siblings love to tease and play with each other no matter how the family was created. Consider yourself educated!
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HERE A FERRY, THERE A FERRY... This past weekend brought an opportunity to ride ferries of different sizes and offering a varying facilities. It shouldn’t be surprising that ferries have been operating in and around the Tri-State area since the 1700s, and yet it did seem odd to think that well before people were zipping their cars onto ferries for a pleasant ride and avoiding overcrowded highways, those who traveled by foot and later horses and wagons used ferries to traverse the open waters. Our first ride was aboard a car ferry from the south fork of Long Island to Shelter Island and from there we rode from Shelter Island to Greenpoint, on the north fork. Both ferries run year round and hold about 15 cars each. Both boats were flat, allowing cars to drive on and off with minimal effort. The crews are experts at fitting the maximum number of cars for each trip. The cost is minimal and each trip takes less than 10 minutes. From the comfort of your car a panoramic view of other boats, flocks of ducks or geese, and at this time of year, wonderful fall colors is enjoyed by relaxed passengers At Orient Point on Long Island we boarded the Susan Anne. At 250 ft, it is the third largest in the fleet of the Cross Sound Ferry Services, where reservations are needed even for the off-season. This particular ship was built in 1964 and, for a number of years, operated between the eastern shores and islands of Canada. One of the most astonishing features of this boat are the hydraulic-lift decks for automobiles. Ten or so cars drive onto the lift that runs the length of the ship on each side, and the whole deck rises allowing yet more cars underneath. In all the ship can carry up to 80 vehicles and 840 passengers. The cost is reasonable at $37 per passenger vehicle of normal size. The crossing takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. There is a small cafeteria on board and booths, where you can enjoy a good sandwich and a wonderful view of Long Island Sound. The Cross Sound Ferry Service has a fleet of seven boats, six carry all manner of vehicles, including trucks, buses and motorhomes, and cross the 16 mile distance between New London and Orient Point. Each ship is different and has its own history. The Cape Henlopen was built as a World War II landing craft (LST 510) and participated in the D-day invasion at Normandy. The seventh boat is a high speed catamaran and has seen service from Hawaii to Nantucket Island. This boat is similar to the SeaStreak and NY Waterway cats, carrying 400 passengers at speeds of 30 knots (35 mph). We were lucky to be able to enjoy a sunny, calm crossing and watched a number of private and commercial, sail and power boats coming into and out of the Sound. In navigating our trip, the map showed a multitude of ferry services that we might not know about or tend to forget about, but all of which would make for a fun excursion. There are ferry services up and down the Hudson River; Fire Island ferries from Patchogue and Bay Shore; Port Jefferson ferries to Bridgeport, CT; Orient Point ferries to Block Island and Block Island ferries to Newport, RI., Montauk ferries to Block Island, Newport, New London and Mystic, CT. If there is a place out there you want to get to, you can almost bet there is a ferry going there and it will be more than a pleasant trip. Looking back into history, it should be noted just how all these ferries came to be operating so tranquilly, for it was not always so. In 1798 New York passed a law giving the ‘exclusive privilege of navigating all steamboats on all waters within the jurisdiction of the State for 20 years’ to one company run by Robert Fulton and Robert Livingston. In effect, this act gave Fulton and Livingston a monopoly and further allowed them to seize any steamboat run by anyone else without their license, and to collect a penalty. Since New Jersey shares the Hudson River with New York, New Jersey took offense and firmly stated that New York could not regulate its citizens (sound familiar?). In 1820 New Jersey passed a law disallowing such seizures and even allowing for damages to be collected if a seizure should occur. All of this put two States in direct conflict and the dispute was brought before the United States Supreme Court. The decision in this case, known as Gibbons v. Ogden, in 1824 defined the state and federal boundaries of power over interstate commerce and was one of the landmark cases establishing the authority of the federal government under the federal Constitution. There is much more to our ferry services than meets the eye and if you have the opportunity, enjoy them all! ../ferry/2003/fr031030_here_a_ferry.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
VETERAN'S DAY
We honor you, who fought for us,
Honor to military, soldiers served.
Sacrifice of civilian life,
Returned Heroes and those deceased, Roger W Hancock - © 12-28-2001 www.FoolBay.com
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(editors note: Do you have poetry to share? Send your submission to editor@ahherald.com.)
Picture This!
../picture_this/2003/pt_031002.htm or click herePicture 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
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 VIEW ARCHIVEPETERS HAS REMAINED STEADFAST IN OPPOSITION TO TOWN CENTER Gerry Scharfenberger's letter in the Herald addresses the important ramifications of the proposed Mall. As all of us who have worked for Concerned Citizens have stated, the addition of this development to the center of our old and historic town would be devastating. Why Mr. Azzolina feels this opposition is directed at him when he has been elected and re-elected from this town for so many years is a mystery to me. The citizens of Middletown have supported him and patronized his stores all these years, but that now does not mean that we have to go along with what he is now trying to do. At a meeting several months ago, when I spoke to him very seriously and reminded him that I had taught two of his children and had known him to be a generous citizen in his contributions to organizations of which I had been a trustee( namely Lunch Break), He told me I was "an idiot if I did not recognize a brilliant idea by one of my former students" ( his son Joe, Jr.) and then when I said that I did not feel he had a right to destroy our town, he called me a name which most newspapers will not print. Nothing in his plan will be a contribution to the good life of Middletown and Gerry has it exactly right--his family's welfare does not trump that of the other 67,000 citizens. I have wished for many years to have two-party government in Middletown ( Mr. Caliendro was incorrect in labeling me recently as a Republican) but now that the Democratic candidate is all that stands between the fight against the Mall and its being built, I am supporting Mrs. Peters in her re-election bid as I know she has remained constant in her opposition to it.
Bettie Rogers
../readers_write/2003/031030_peters_opposes_town_center.htm WATCHDOG IS BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE The current race for the Middletown Township Committee seat currently occupied by Mayor Rosemarie Peters has pitted a popular incumbent against a relatively untested opponent, Alex DeSevo. Mr. DeSevo comes with a relatively sparse record of public service consisting mainly of offering legal counsel to various citizens groups pro bono in the hope that he would be compensated with votes in the future. However, recent statements by Mr. DeSevo in the papers and a very aggressive advertising campaign are obviously designed to draw attention to a candidate with little to offer i.e. a Barbie doll dressed as Frankenstein in front of the Banefield property. (Grow-up!) When a candidate must resort to ridiculous advertisements, making inflammatory statements and wild, unsubstantiated accusations such as, "stop property confiscation" and "end corruption" to gain notoriety, voters should be extremely wary. On the contrary, Mr. DeSevo's known record is what should be of concern. At one point, Mr. DeSevo was strongly against the proposed town center mall project, even standing shoulder to shoulder with myself and other opponents at an anti-town center rally. Suddenly, he made a complete about face, and was rewarded with, some say, the support of the Azzolina family run newspaper and financial support for his campaign. Is this the type of individual Middletown wants as their representative, an individual willing to compromise his core convictions for political expediency? On the other hand, we have a mayor who is the epitome of class and integrity. Mayor Peters has served the citizens of Middletown well in various capacities over the years, and has stuck to her beliefs on serious issues even in the face of immense pressure from private special interests and political adversaries. Even during the current race, Mayor Peters has refused to stoop to the level of her opponents, instead, concentrating on a stellar record with many accomplishments and a sound vision for Middletown's future. It is this record that makes our mayor such a formidable opponent, and only serves to illustrate the deficiencies in her opponents. That is why when it comes to attacking the mayor, the watchdog is barking up the wrong tree! Linda J. Gumina
../readers_write/2003/031030_watchdog_wrong_tree.htm With only a few days to go until this important Nov. 4 election, I would like to thank the voters of Atlantic Highlands in advance for their expressions of encouragement and support, their work on behalf of the Democratic ticket and their financial contributions to help us get out our message. Although I presume nothing, I have a good feeling about the results. Literally hundreds of people have responded enthusiastically to our proposals for the future of our town and have expressed the view that after 16 years of Republican control that it is time for a change. We know that voters are likely to receive a tidal wave of political flyers over the weekend and we urge you to take a look at them. We think you will find a clear choice between the tentative, tiresome and insufficient old ideas of an entrenched Republican regime and the bold, determined and expansive fresh ideas of the Democratic team of Pete Donoghue for mayor and Stephanie Ladiana and Carl Nolan for Council. Much of what our opponents have been talking about are things they have failed to do in the past, despite borrowing and spending hundreds of thousands of your tax dollars. Do you believe it? Now they favor more money coming from the harbor; now they will complete the bike trail and the gas company cleanup; now they support our schools; now they promise open, responsive and civil local government. Really? By now, friends, most voters know we are governed by a tired and arrogant old guard determined to hold onto power at all costs, ethical or not. By now, we know that the Democratic Council candidates are far more qualified than their's, particularly when it comes to fiscal matters. And now, virtually everyone knows that there will be no changes at borough hall or at the harbor -- no bipartisanship, no fiscal responsibility, no responsiveness to residents' concerns, no end to politics as usual -- unless Pete Donoghue, Stephanie Ladiana and Carl Nolan are elected. This is the chance of a lifetime for the people to take back their town. But everyone needs to take personal responsibility by voting and making sure relatives and friends vote. People with their backs to the wall will work hard to hold onto to power. We must work even harder to seize power for the people. Thanks in advance for all you are about to do to make sure this crusade is successful.
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BISHOP SEES RED BEHIND EVERY TREE I have read several of Gordon Bishop's so called editorials and have found them so laced with disinformation, misinformation, and invective, that I find it hard to understand why you even bother to keep him in print. He seems to see a Red behind every tree, even in Clinton's presidency, which is just absurd. Gordon Bishop goes on to bash Clinton as a draft dodging, coke snorting, nymphomaniac, but I'm sure he won't mention that George W. Bush was AWOL for 18 months during the Vietnam War from his cushy stint in the Texas Air Guard that was arranged by his daddy. No, and I'm sure that Gordon wouldn't mention that Bush 2 was widely known to snort white powder in large amounts and drink heavily. In fact, he is the only criminal ever to be 'selected' the office of president. Gordon Bishop won't mention those facts, along with the fact that Bush 1 wanted to forgive Nazi war criminals and Bush 2's granddaddy was known as 'Hilter's banker' and was indicted under the Trading with the Enemies Act during WW2. Those facts, I'm sure, Gordon Bishop doesn't want the general public to know because it might make them think about what kind of president is in the White House, and what kind of man Gordon Bishop is.
David Lederman ../readers_write/2003/031030_bishop_sees_red.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
As the Republican candidate for Mayor of Atlantic Highlands, I believe that this year’s decision is crucial to the future of our borough. Our team has put forth an ambitious agenda to our residents and a record of achievement that is in stark contrast to that of our opponents. There are many differences between the two parties this year, beginning with our service to the community. My running mates, Marty Shann and Debbie Traphagen, have verifiable records as volunteers for Atlantic Highlands. Their Democrat opponents for council cannot point to a single community organization in our town that they belong to. As a councilman for the past seven years, I have consistently voted to protect Atlantic Highlands from over-development, and am proud to have voted for the preservation of over 35 acres that resulted in the creation of the Lenape Woods. During his term as council member in the 1970s, Peter Donohue failed to act on protecting a single acre of open space for our borough. On First Avenue, I have served on the committee for a new streetscape and have promoted new events, like the Scenic Five Mile Run. The streetscape project will become a reality in our administration and our goal is to finish this project out to Route 36. In public comments last August, Donohue said that we are moving to fast with the streetscape and his team doesn’t have a plan to revitalize our business district. On the issue of our waterfront, I support a plan that combines recreation with redevelopment. The Democrat ticket has been fighting these efforts and even went to Trenton to block a $3 million grant that would have helped fund our project. We have yet to see their proposal for our waterfront. My administration will continue to protect the interests of the taxpayers and residents will be treated with the courtesy and respect that they deserve. My opponent’s refusal to reveal specific plans for our future does a disservice to the voter and could be disastrous to our future. I believe that Atlantic Highlands best days are ahead of us and with your vote on November 4, we will continue to make Atlantic Highlands a great place to live.
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As Election Day draws near, the Democratic Team – Peter Donoghue, Stephanie Ladiana and myself – would like to thank everyone for making this campaign so enjoyable. I have never run for office before and I found that all the people I met were open and generous with their time. We also want to assure the people of Atlantic Highlands that the only agenda the Democrats have is your agenda. Because that is why we are in this race – we have the same questions you do. For example, The current administration – in power for sixteen years – are fond of taking credit for the ferry service in town and even the existence of the harbor itself. Then why – in all that time – does it seem they never spent ten minutes thinking about how the increase in commuter traffic would adversely effect First Avenue and our neighborhoods? Back in 1999, a referendum was passed - by a three to one margin - to establish a fund for Open Space. That fund has grown to $90,000, but the Mayor and Council have spent over $2 million dollars. Is that really what the residents had in mind? With the harbor the Borough’s most valuable asset, why is it run by political appointees with no financial or maritime experience? Why would the Harbor Commission subsidize the liquor license for the new restaurant at the harbor, putting them in unfair competition with our already established businesses? And why is it so hard to get a straight and honest answer out of our current leaders – whether at a meeting or when they are standing at your doorstep? Now, I see where Allan Dean is using his Forums for personal attacks on my running mates and Councilman Archibald is using his internet column for self promotion. Fine. After all, that is politics. The AH Democrats will continue to use our website and our literature to discuss the issues and your concerns. That is because we care. Our current government has been tipped so far to one side – one voice, one mindset – that it will require the election of our entire team to give the Borough back to its citizens. We hope for your support. Thank you. Carl J Nolan
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AH REPUBLICANS HAVE SHOWN DEDICATION TO THE TOWN You say you don't care about politics, even local politics? Still feel like it doesn't matter who wins, that your voice never gets heard? Perhaps you were not told the facts. Here in Atlantic Highlands, local candidates often win or lose thanks to a handful of votes. Your vote DOES matter! Do you vote for a party, or do you vote for the person who will work harder for you? Sure, the previous generation may have been pushed by their friends, family, work, church... but you know better - don't you? Surely you have noticed the improvements in town during the past few years. All this growth and change - for the better - was spurred along by your Borough Council, people who have ideas, and the courage to take action. Of course taxes have risen. They ALWAYS rise, just as the cost of living rises, BUT the Republicans on the Council have held costs down as much as possible, given the increase in expenses in every area of our lives. Even our employees are making do with less, and doing terrific jobs. It's so easy to create political flyers that mislead and make false claims. But, complaining without learning the facts is just not right. It's downright un-American! Atlantic Highlands has the finest and best-trained police department, because we have given them what they need to serve and protect us. Our schools are doing a marvelous job, thanks to dedicated teachers, volunteers and plans for much-needed growth. Businesses are taking a new look at our town, thanks to all the improvements we have undertaken. You deserve a Council that does not wait for others to make the tough decisions. (Mayor and Council have received no raises in over ten years, they work for YOU, not for money!) I have been proud to serve as your Councilman for three terms, and have watched with admiration as Jack Archibald devoted hundreds of hours to working for you. You have the power, but ONLY if you choose to vote. Make the best choice for yourself - and for Atlantic Highlands. The fact is, Jack Archibald is the best candidate for Mayor of Atlantic Highlands, and Marty Shann and Debbie Traphagen are the best choice for Council. They have all shown their dedication through hard work and volunteering. Please vote for them on Election Day, Tuesday November 4th.
Steve O'Brien
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BENNETT WILL PREVENT MCGREEVEY TAX INCREASES Dear Freehold Township Neighbor, On November 4th, Election Day, you and I will be asked to make some very important decisions. The election of state and county representatives will have a most significant impact, not only on Freehold Township, but on New Jersey as a whole. Most pundits are predicting that control of the State Senate and the State Assembly will be decided here, in the 12th Legislative District. In the 12th District, Senator John O. Bennett is running for re-election to the State Senate, where he now serves as Senate President, the second highest ranking official in the State. I am supporting Senator Bennett, AS IS EVERY ELECTED OFFICIAL IN FREEHOLD TWP. We are supporting John, unequivocally, not simply because he's a Republican, but because he has a 20 year record of accomplishment for Freehold Township. Just in the past few years alone, Senator Bennett has acquired some $9 million in State transportation funding for major improvements to Route 9, in Freehold Township, that in addition to $1.25 million for open space. In short, John Bennett has "clout;" his opponent has offered us nothing. John Bennett, and a Republican-controlled Legislature, will see to it that the very real needs of Freehold Township and Monmouth County are addressed in Trenton. In two short years, Gov. McGreevey has managed to raise taxes on drivers licenses, auto registrations, nursing homes, home sales, utility bills and a whole host of other taxes, most of which have been passed on to us, as consumers. John Bennett, and a Republican-controlled Legislature, will prevent the McGreevey Administration from continuously raising our property taxes, as was done in 2003. On November 4th, join me and EVERY elected official in Freehold Township in helping re-elect Senator John Bennett, Assemblyman Mike Arnone, Assemblywoman Clare Farragher and Freeholder Ted Narozanick.
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DONOGHUE SERVED SCOUTS IN EARLIER TIMES As a former Cub and Boy Scout leader with Atlantic Highlands' Pack/Troop 22 and long-time friend of mayoral candidate Pete Donoghue, I would like to highlight a part of his resume that may not be widely known: his service to youth in Atlantic Highlands and neighboring towns. As I recall he devoted at least 10 years to Cub Scout Pack 22, overlapping with four years as Committee Chairman for Boy Scout Troop 22. This earned him a National God and Service Award. Beginning in those earlier times and continuing today, he's led countless boys through the Citizenship series of Boy Scout Merit Badges. How appropriate that he's back on the political scene, running for mayor.
John Lewis
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As a concerned resident of Highlands and a Councilwoman I am worried about the upcoming election that is taking place in Highlands. For the past ten months that I have sat on the council we (Urbanski, Ciazza, O'Neil and Little) have worked extremely well together. We have had a great flow of communication and kept an open policy with all our Borough Employees as well as the residents of this town. Things are finally starting to move in the right direction. It breaks my heart to hear what Ray Goddard and Art Gallagher have to say. We have done everything in our power to cut cost and make changes to better our community. Honestly I beg of the residents to keep this town moving upward. Not only do I feel this way about the present council so does our Republican Mayor Rick O'Neil. Please vote, November 4th.
Rebecca Kane
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BIAS INCIDENT AT MIDDLETOWN HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH This letter concerns a bias incident, which occurred a couple of weeks ago during pre-game activities of a high school football game. The incident was caught on tape by one of the local cable news stations there to film the game and later was broadcast on local cable. The actions in question were that of a member of the Middletown South High School football team. When this young man knew he was on camera he crossed his arms across his chest three times. The first time he did not say anything but the second and third time he said out loud the word “BONES.” This went unnoticed until after the tape of the game aired on television when it began causing a stir among the students. I wanted to know what everyone was talking about and it was explained to me by a student that B-O-N-E-S is an acronym for “ Beat On Niggers Every Saturday.” At this point the police became involved but said that their hands were tied. Their position was that they either had to charge the entire team or no one at all. By this time there was enough outrage among the entire community that the superintendent’s office was flooded with phone calls and e-mails, forcing the school administration to take action. The punishment for the quarterback was, as prescribed by school guidelines, a three day suspension, which was appealed by his parents and subsequently reduced to two days with him also keeping his starting position on the team. This school, Middletown High School South, is predominately White with a few African American, Hispanic and Asian students. I teach at this school and I happen to be African American but I am not looking to single out this particular student for any extraordinary punishment. I only want the punishment to be fair and evenhanded. At the beginning of the school year a white student, who does not happen to be a star athlete, threatened a minority student and was not only suspended, he was arrested and not permitted to return to school without a psychiatric evaluation. My main concern is the safety and respect of all students and I do not feel that enough coaches, teachers and administrators are taking this incident, and its underlying causes, seriously enough. Soon after this incident other bias messages have been found inside the school. Student names were written on walls followed by the word NIGGER. Another acronym had also surfaced, this time the word S-P-O-N-G-E was written on a wall which is an acronym for “Society Prevention Of Niggers Getting Everything.” By not meting out consistent punishment, students may come to believe that this type of disrespectful behavior towards minority students is acceptable. Minority students, on the other hand, by sensing no adult support inside the school system, may feel the need to take matters into their own hands, putting this young man or any that follow the same path in harm’s way. While the prevailing attitudes in Middletown may not lead the school to a Columbine-like incident, that possibility may not be as far fetched as it sounds so long as the majority of educators and township residents regard incidents like this one as nothing more than “boys will be boys.”
Mrs. Donna Bower
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Mayor Peters, I’m a lifetime resident of Middletown. Same house, same neighborhood I grew up in. Last Sunday you walked my block, the first time in memory that a Republican showed an interest in District 31. I looked forward to hearing your solution to traffic traveling at excessive speed’s at all hours of the day and night on Cherry Tree Lane. I waited for an explanation why the township did not clear our streets of snow for 24 hours last winter and your expectation on the upcoming season. I wanted to know why Middletown’s maintenance crews were hard at work repairing the 42 year old Swim Club I can’t afford to join, while my brush (and everyone else’s) awaits pick up. I waited for the plan to alleviate the 30 car back up on King’s Highway at the Red Hill Road intersection every afternoon. What I heard was how your Democratic opponent is going to build the Town Center as soon as he takes office. How dare you! The Republican Party has been running this town for the last two decades. The Republican Party and you as an individual put the proposed Town Center project on the drawing board by approving the zoning in 1993, 1994 and again in 1997. You also left the entire 137 acres off the Open Space list in 1999 and referred to the acreage as the “TOWN CENTER”. Mr. DeSevo does not favor the Town Center. Mr. DeSevo, when elected, will never have a chance to vote for or against the project. Mr. DeSevo has stated every day of the campaign that the Town Center is a Republican back room deal gone bad. Your intention to turn the property into 1,000 senior housing units and rename it Lakewood North is an absurd alternative. It’s unfortunate that what’s done is done, but the Mountain Hill Group has the right to develop the property. You gave them that right! Let’s hope they do not take the present manufacturing zoning into their development plans. And while I have my soap box out lets talk about the Banfield Culture Center. I am not against the project just the way the deal came about and the eventual cost. Mr. Banfield is a long time Republican supporter. Mr. Banfield was the civic minded individual who walked the old metered parking lot across from his business and phoned in the expired meters so the police could ticket the offenders. Was Mr. Banfield rewarded for his years of service? Is it a stretch to suggest that the Republican laden Parks and Recreation’s recommendation to purchase the property was a convenient way for the Committee to stay out of the fray? Mayor Peters the Swim Club is a not solvent! Period! You must think the tax payers are idiots? I continue to hear about the sexual harassment suit against Mr. Parkinson. You successfully buried this issue prior to last year’s election. Please acknowledge that the suit names all five members of the Township Committee. The Mayors Office constructed in 2002, was to separate the Mayor from the Clerk not to better serve the public as advertised. Mayor Parkinson made many proclamations in 2002. Did I miss the one where he proclaimed his innocence? Since the taxpayer is footing the bill the Committee must disclose the cost. If Mr. Parkinson and the Committee are innocent of all allegations then do we have a problem with the Clerk, Rosa Garcia–Crowley, making false accusations? Or are we looking to settle this behind closed doors? Mayor Peters, your opponent Mr. DeSevo is a stand up person. His contract for clean government is admirable and must be adopted regardless of who is elected next Tuesday. It is my hope that the Taxpayers of Middletown realize that five committee members of the same party does not make a healthy environment for fair representation. The power brokers behind the scenes must be sent a message. It wasn’t healthy in the 70’s when we had five Democrats and it is totally out of kilter now. We can no longer afford to have decisions being made behind closed doors. Was the $18,000 billing error by Mr. Carton a legitimate mistake or did Mr. Bennett’s misdeeds force another look? Don’t turn Middletown into Marlboro! Leo C. Decker
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AH DEMOCRATS WILL MAINTAIN SMALL TOWN QUALITY OF LIFE Recently Atlantic Highlands republican mayoral candidate Jack Archibald asked me what would it take to get my vote for the November election. While I gave him a quick answer at the time, it is a question that the Atlantic Highlands voters should carefully consider during this crucial election. The future of Atlantic Highlands depends upon it. To respond more fully, the candidate that I plan to vote for should be concerned about issues that impact upon the quality of life in our small boro. Atlantic Highlands is often described as the "Jewel of the Bayshore", a family oriented community within a beautiful environment. What plan does the candidate have to maintain and enhance this environment? How will the citizens of our town participate in the decisions that effect our town and our lives? I have had conversations with many residents over the past few years. Concerns have been raised about the increase in traffic and parking issues relating to the ferry passengers. Do we need additional parking which will increase traffic and create safety issues? A significant harbor expansion has been proposed with little public input. Will this be the best utilization of our resources? Mr. Archibald recently met with the president of the Atlantic Highlands PTO and describe his plan to meet monthly with local school officials. Why didn't he speak directly to the local school officials and why has it taken him so long to realize the importance of communication within the boro? I am personally infuriated by the lack of support for our local schools and the unfounded criticisms of the Atlantic Highlands Board of Education and false information he disseminated through his AHHerald columns. The Mayor should possess qualities that will enable him to be an effective leader: openness, fairness, truthfulness, he should lead by example. I'm afraid I haven't found this to be the case with Mr. Archibald. I do know that Peter Donoghue has the potential to be an excellent mayor. He is experienced, has dealt with the public and the press, believes in maintaining quality of life for all our citizens. His running mates, Stephanie Ladiana and Carl Nolan are not experienced politicians, but bring a refreshing perspective into this election. My wife is a long term resident, I'm a fairly new one. However, we both want the same things for our children and the future children of Atlantic Highlands - quality education, a true home town environment, controlled growth and spending. I give the Donoghue ticket my full support . . . and ask the citizens of Atlantic Highlands to do the same.
Robert Wallauer
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IT'S TIME FOR AH DEMOCRATS TO SHARE ORIGINAL IDEAS As a full time working mother of senior high school triplet daughters, who are right smack in the middle of the college search, it takes a lot to make me stop and write a letter to the editor. As a taxpayer in Atlantic Highlands, “a lot” has arrived. It is election time and once again we find ourselves faced with a perceived dilemma. On one side, the Republican candidates with proven leadership both elected and volunteer, have clearly stated their vision for the future of our town. On the other side, the Democratic candidates, we hear an echo of the same vision. In Atlantic Highlands today the real estate values are the highest in a decade, First Avenue is attracting first class investors bringing new businesses into our community, and our schools are beginning state of the art renovations that will allow our students to successfully compete on the global landscape. Election day is just around the corner and I commend anyone that is willing to place his or her hat in the ring. But it frightens me when the individuals seeking public office in our town are not aware of what is already in place. Haven’t they bothered to do their homework? The Democratic candidates want an audit of the budget. I am concerned that these candidates do not know the law. An independent audit is prepared every year and followed by a public hearing disclosing the findings. Any suggestions to improve the operation of the town are then adopted by the governing body. The tax rates. If we want to stabilize our tax rate we have two choices; we can eliminate services or we can increase ratables. I like the fact that someone collects my recyclables and I value the fact that our police force is “second to none”. This leaves the alternative of sensibly increasing ratables. We are extremely fortunate that we have a municipal harbor, which affords us plausible, environmentally conscious, development options. I am dumbfounded as to why Mr. Nolan, a taxpayer and the Democratic candidate for Council, would write a letter to the Governor telling him that we did not want 2.5 million dollars to fund such a possible project? My intelligence is insulted when someone tells me that we gave a “sweetheart deal” to a “friend” of the mayor with the restaurant in the harbor. This “friend” is paying the rent, improving a vacated building and economically stimulating our town. There were 12 bidders on the property and the governing body accepted the highest bid in the best interest of the taxpayer. Isn’t it the mayor’s job to “talk up” our town and encourage potential investors? If elected, are the Democratic candidates going to sit back and wait for progress? Councilman Archibald has been criticized for becoming involved with the public school referendums. He attended public meetings, he asked ”hard” questions and as is his constitutional right, he voiced his opinion. While people may not share his views, we have to respect that he was doing the job he was elected to do. My advice to the current Democratic candidates would be to think of one original idea and communicate it to the voters. We will listen. We are listening to the Republican candidates. They are sharing actionable ideas that will improve our quality of life. They are telling and showing us what they have done and what they are going to do: when, where, why and how. If I am unsure of what the Republicans are proposing I can wait for the next Democratic flyer and read it there. Perhaps, imitation truly is the sincerest form of flattery. “It’s Time” alone does not earn my vote. The fact that I can walk safely down First Avenue and stop in the new café on my way to our beautiful harbor does. Tracey A. Abby
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GREEN CANDIDATE SEEING RED OVER CORPORATE GREED As the Green Party candidate from the 13th district, I'm writing in response to Gordon Bishop's letter of 10/16, where he attacks the Greens in general and Brian Unger in particular for his criticism of Mr. Bishop's column. I was somewhat alarmed to see the term "red" in his letter and then hear Greens described as "misfits" and "rejects". Somehow I don't think these terms accurately describe Ralph Nader, America's best known Green Party candidate, who as a private citizen has probably done more for the quality of life of ordinary Americans (EPA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Auto Safety, Freedom of Information Act) than just about anyone I can think of. Is he talking about me? I got involved with the Green Party during the 2000 Presidential election after hearing Nader's speeches broadcast on WBAI 99.5 FM. He spoke about the tremendous public wealth we own as US Citizens, and about how government could be a positive force in the lives of ordinary people. The problem, however, is that our public assets (our federal lands, with their timber and mineral wealth, the public airwaves, the trillions of dollars of pension assets of working people), are under the control of a small minority of wealthy people who use them for their private gain. I picked up a copy of " Forbes 400 Wealthiest Americans", who average about $2 Billion in personal wealth, and tried to grasp what it means to own two billion dollars. At what point does money at that scale become a meaningless set of numbers on a page? I also noticed that 4or 5 of those multibillionaires were heirs to the Wal-Mart fortune. Then I heard that those 4 or 5 Wal-Mart heirs were getting more money back from Mr. Bush's tax cut than the one million Wal-Mart employees, most of whom have lousy, or no medical benefits, and most of whom earn a poverty wage. Is this the treasured "Way of Life" that the rest of the world supposedly envies? It amazes me that Americans pay thousands of dollars for health insurance, only to have to do battle with their HMO just to get a claim paid. Or if your child changes your internet dial-up number, you could be liable for hundreds, even thousands of dollars worth of in-state long distance charges (and I'm amazed how many people have had this experience!). Doesn't government have a duty to protect the interests of its citizens, or is its purpose simply to provide business opportunities for private industry? Have our cherished American freedoms degenerated into the freedom of powerful corporations to rip off the public for all they can possibly steal? Will Enron's Ken Lay have to pay back the $9 billion they stole from California's ratepayers, not to mention ripping off the pensions of their own employees and the stock value of their own shareholders? Or, as Mr. Bush's top campaign contributor and former business partner, is he simply above the law? Perhaps we Greens are "misfits" in that we aren't out soliciting "campaign contributions" from wealthy donors, PAC's, and industry trade groups, all with the wink and the nod that when it comes down to brass tacks it will be interests that the Legislature puts first. As a Green, my highest priority is Clean Money Campaign Reform, as was passed earlier by the Maine Legislature. Only after we begin to get the flood of private money out of campaigns will government begin to express the will of the majority of its citizens. My second priority is a radical shift in taxation away from working people and small business and onto wealthy individuals, like the Wal-Mart heirs, and onto the huge multinational corporations, most of which pay little or no taxes and many of which actually get net revenue back from the US Treasury. We live in the richest nation that has ever existed on the face of the earth, yet so many of us live in poverty and economic insecurity. I ask that you please support the Green Party in our efforts to get private money out of government, and get our democracy back on track! Greg Orr ../readers_write/2003/031030_green_seeing_red.htm PRINT THIS ARTICLE
VOTE NO TO THE HAZLET TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL PUBLIC QUESTION The Hazlet Area Quality of Life Alliance, HAQLA, does not favor the Hazlet Township Municipal Public Question that appears on the 2003 General Election ballot to be voted upon on Tuesday, November 4th, 2003. The lack of sufficient information hinders the voters’ ability and rights to cast an informed vote. Being similar in nature and language to the question that was defeated last year HAQLA notes that the question remains riddled with vague and ambiguous language. Has an Open Space Inventory been prepared, and if so, made available to the public? Some of the information that HAQLA feels should have been presented to the voters, is the identification and full disclosure of the specific parcels to be acquired and how such acquisitions shall fulfill the mission and purpose of the Open Space Trust Fund. What part of the funds will be used for other than Open Space acquisition? The Public Question, as now structured, appears, on one hand, to provide for payment of most any associated expense and debt that relates to Open Space, Conservation, Recreation, and ParkLand. On the other hand, little or no specific land purchases are required or promised and not even a minimum percentage of the funds to be collected and dedicated for land purchase has been established or disclosed. HAQLA further notes that a future tax reassessment of lands and buildings in Hazlet Township, to values closer or equal to current market values, could raise the average assessed value to well beyond the currant offered figure of $133,700. Subsequently the projected average tax of $13.37, charged per year, could soar to exorbitant levels. Because of the many points of concern that have not been adequately addressed, by the Hazlet Township Committee, HAQLA urges all residents to “Vote No” to the Hazlet Township Municipal Public Question, on November 4th. Robert W. Weigand,
GREEN PARTY CANDIDATE ASKS FOR SUPPORT Jaime Donnelly Green Party Candidate District 13 I was born in Staten Island NY. I moved to Hazlet in 1984. I am 26 years old. I graduated from Raritan High School in 1995. I attended Clayton Collage, in the study holistic nutrition. I want to represent you, the middle class, which I am one of. Yes I am a third party candidate. Which seems to concern people. What should concern you is the fact that neither Democrat nor Republican has been there for us. The People who go to work everyday, who only want to be able to pay the bills and give their children good schools and a safe place to live. What makes me different then the other two parties? I AM NOT FOR SALE. No major companies can buy me. That’s why you will probably never see my picture on TV or a big add in a paper with my picture on it. I’m not rich, so I cannot pay for your votes, nor would I want to if I were rich. As a third party candidate I can vote for what you the people want and need. If I am elected I would like to see the following: 1-Stop suburban sprawl. We are turning our suburbs into cities. For example No Middletown square, No Aberdeen Forge, No Union Beach flood plan. Stop the loss of farmlands and forests. Improve mass transit. 2- Health insurance for everyone. A health insurance that is affordable to all. Including a proscription and dental plan for everyone. 3- a living wage. Fares go up gas goes up but our salary stays the same, why? Because we let it happen. There are just so many hours in our days. You can’t be everywhere and that’s what the Government is counting on. In 1968 for every$1 the worker made the boss made $12 now for every $1 the worker makes the boss makes$420 4-Crack down on State, County and Township corruption. 5- Government officials should live like the people they serve. No cars paid for by taxpayers, no trips on the taxpayer, no credit cards paid for by the people. They pay what we pay and they get what we get. No special pension. Accountability to the people for what they get and what they spend. I believe that when you choose to serve the people, you should serve and mean it. 6-The environment, Cleaner waterways. The ocean feeds us and we treat it with such disrespect. 7- Lower Car Insurance, Pennsylvania pays half of what New Jersey pays. 8-Campaign Finance Reform. Take the big money out of politics, allowing voters to have more choices. Bring Maine’s successful clean money campaign to NJ. 9-Fair Taxes, Lower property taxes for homeowners now! NJ has the highest property taxes in the nation. 10- Stop sending our jobs overseas. And granting work visa’s that take away American jobs Although I am 26 years old, what happens to my district, my state, and this world, is my future also. We have to try to keep it the best we can. Please, Don’t forget to vote. Make your voice heard; it’s your right as an American
AH REPUBLICANS WORKING FOR THE GOOD OF ALL CITIZENS As the Republican Candidates for Atlantic Highlands Council, we would like to thank our residents for their courtesy and hospitality during our visits to your homes this fall. We always knew that Atlantic Highlands greatest asset is its people, and our experience this fall has confirmed that belief. We have been proud to run as members of the Republican ticket. Our town has progressed so far in the past few years, and we promise to continue the policy of open and honest government. We are disappointed that our opposition has seen fit to criticize the accomplishments of the current incumbents, and believe that working together for the good of all of our citizens is what public service is about. Our past experience as volunteers should serve us well as your future council members. We will work for the good of our community and protect the interests of all the taxpayers. With your support on Tuesday, Atlantic Highlands will become an even better place to live.
Marty Shann
P L E A S E 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
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