Enough Vaccine for All?

by Jason Allentoff

The H1N1 Influenza has been in the news constantly during the last six months. Ever since the first case was reported, it seems like almost daily we're being bombarded with messages about hand washing, the symptoms and now the vaccine. Last week, it was reported nationally that there is a shortage of H1N1 vaccine and federal officials are working to make sure there is enough to go around.

Although production is running several weeks behind schedule, the Ocean County Health Department is confident they will have enough syrum to go around to the high risk groups and to anyone who wants it.

So lets run through the numbers. Ocean County received 3,000 doses of the nasal mist vaccine and 4,000 of the injectible one. They've also ordered 10,000 additional more. Ok so that's 17,000. Early estimates for the 2010 census show the county could have close to 600,000 residents! There's obviously a deficit.

However, Dr. Ella Boyd with the Health Department says not everyone will want or even need to be immunized. She says "as long as 70 percent of the population gets the vaccine, they're counting on something called herd immunity to take care of the rest." She adds "If you have enough people immunized, you end up breaking the chain of transmission and that's what we are hoping for."

Many have been concerned about the safety of getting their kids yet another immunization. Dr. Boyd says "the risks for the swine flu outweigh the possible vaccine side effects."

Health department staffers dispense the stuff to the high risk groups in the form of a shot today at Jackson Liberty High School from 3 - 7:30 p.m. Another clinic is set for Thursday at Southern Regional Middle School from 3 - 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 732-341-9700 extension 7-5-0-2.

Tomorrow, we conclude our four part series.

H1N1 and Schools

by Jason Allentoff

In part two of our continuing series on the H1N1 influenza, we look at the effect on Ocean County schools and what kind of battle plans the district's have in place in the event of a local epidemic.

Since the very first case of Swine Flu was reported in early April of this year, The Ocean County Health Department immediately went to work to spread the word on prevention efforts among the community and school officials. A new line of immediate communication was formed between administrators and staffers keeping track of all the latest information on cases and what can be done to sanitize desks, school buses and the common areas kids congregate in the walls of the educational facilities.

According to Executive Superintendent Dr. Bruce Greenfield, teachers at all area schools are being asked to work ahead on three weeks of lesson plans just in case they need to take time off to recover in the event they come down with H1N1. Hand washing and hygiene are also a subject for discussion between teacher and student and a series of posters are hanging in the school buildings. Greenfield says although many states have had to close schools because of the Swine Flu, they have every intention of keeping things open but they have a contingency plan in case.

Greenfield says "if schools were forced to close, there would still be a continuity of education in place either through the internet or other new technology that would allow the teacher to connect remotely to the students' homes." Greenfield also urges parents to look into the H1N1 vaccine for their kids as a precautionary measure.

Two injectible clinics will be held next week. The first at Jackson Liberty High School on Monday. The second next Thursday at Southern Regional Middle School. Both run from 3 until 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 732-341-9700 extension 7-5-0-2

Next week, we will look at the H1N1 vaccine in depth and find out why only the high risk groups are getting it right now.

H1N1 - An Update and Additional Clinics

by Jason Allentoff

On Wednesday, October 21st, The Ocean County Health Department held an afternoon press conference at their Toms River Headquarters. The subject? The H1N1 virus and where we stand at this point. I've been following this story since the very first case of Swine Flu broke out back in April. It almost seems like details change each hour. In the beginning, we were tracking each individual case in the state until it hit such a point that even Health Officials gave up the count. Now, the vaccine is here and in the first part of this four part series, we delve deep into H1-N1 and try to answer some of the most commonly asked questions.

Before April's outbreak, the H1N1 strain appeared in New Jersey back in 1976. The novel swine influenza A caused severe respiratory illness in 13 soldiers at Fort Dix. One person died. The virus did not spread beyond the military base. Now its here - more widespread - and it doesn't look like it's going away anytime soon.

On June 11th, the World Health Organization declared the Swine Flu a pandemic, moving the alert level to phase 6, marking the first global pandemic since the 1968 Hong Kong flu.

While the press conference was taking place, scores of concerned residents shuffled in down the hall to be immunized. Health department Epidemiologist Patricia High says information constantly comes in as the flu season enters it's second month. She says "of the influenza-A viruses that have been seen right now, H1N1 is the predominate strain right now not only in Jersey but nationwide."

Two injectible H1N1 vaccine clinics will be held for pregnant women, household contacts and caregivers for kids younger than six months of age, healthcare personnel, all people from 6 months through 24 years of age, and all people ages 25 - 64 who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications for influenza. The first will be Monday, October 26th at Jackson Liberty High School and the second next Thursday, October 29th at Southern Regional Middle School. Both are from 3 p.m. till 7:30 p.m.

Additional nasal mist clinics will be announced soon. Those are for healthy children ages 2 through 18 with no underlying health conditions only.

The symptoms of the virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. High says a lot of these symptoms are also felt during the regular seasonal flu.

For more information on the H1N1 virus, you can call the state health department's special hotline at 1-866-321-9571. The Ocean County Health Department has been bombarded with calls so unless you need direct information on upcoming clinics, use the state phone line. To reach the local department, call 732-341-9700 extension 7-5-0-2.

The entire health department and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advise everyone to continue good hygine including hand washing, hand sanitizers, cover your cough or sneeze and stay home from work or school if you're sick.

So where do we stand as of today? So far, 74 countries have officially reported over 399,234 laboratory confirmed cases of the influenza pandemic H1N1 infection, including 4,735 deaths.

Tomorrow, we will look at how school officials in Ocean County are addressing the problem and what steps administrators and teachers are taking to continue the continuity of education.

Toms River Council Meetings Will Soon Be Available On Its Website

By: Rosetta Key

Toms River Township officials are moving fast and furious into the future by soon providing audio and video downloads of its council meetings from the township website.

Mayor Thomas Keleher says presently, they're in negotiations with its cable company Comcast and they're hoping to obtain a technology grant to purchase all the video equipment they need.

Keleher says by offering downloads from its web page, most everyone will be able to access the meetings from anywhere in the world. He says, "We became aware of the fact that not everyone in town has Comcast. Part of the municipality is serviced by Cablevision. Other people have satellite dishes and there are a lot of people who just don't have cable of any type and just rely on general broadcast channels."

In the meantime, plans to allow audio downloads of its council meetings should be available by the end of next week, August 25th, according to a Township press release.

Keleher says he's particularly pleased because of the opportunity it gives to those with special needs. "You know our 'Americans with Disabilities Act Committee' has been asking for this for a while because they particularly are aware of handicapped folks who can not get out and this way they can participate from home."

Keleher says when every thing's up and running, the meetings will be available the day after the meeting.

You can log onto the township website at www.tomsrivertownship.com

Ocean County Law Enforcement Officials Investigate a Murder Suicide

By: Rosetta Key

Toms River Police and the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office say the death of a towship woman appears to be a murder-suicide.

The body of 30-year-old Letizia Zindell was discovered around 3:15 this afternoon inside her car on King George Lane at the Penny lane Condominium Complex. Then around 4 p.m. Police Chief Mike Mastronardy says the body of Zindell's ex-fiance, 36-year-old Frank Frisco was found hanging in a loft in a detached garage.

Ocean County Prosecutor Marlene Lynch Ford says "It looks like an example of domestic abuse spiraling out of control."

Zindell had a restraining order against Frisco. Ford says Zindell had called off her wedding to Frisco two months ago.

The couple had no children together. Frisco however, was the father of three children from a previous marraige.

Five Monmouth County Towns Are Studying Whether Or Not It Would Be Cost-Effective To Share Some Police Services

Belmar, Bradley Beach, Neptune, Neptune City and Lake Como are getting $75,684 from the state to do a shared services study.

The towns are each paying $2,800 in addition to the state grant.

“We are hoping to find ways of optimizing services, avoiding any duplications of effort, and thereby reducing costs to the taxpayer,” says Bradley Beach Mayor Julie Schreck.

The study will look at possibly sharing a dispatch center, a detective bureau and police duties such as management and patrol as well as fleet maintenance and purchasing.

“We have a chance to look at where it makes sense to share or practices that we might adopt and services that we don’t share, which could also end up saving money for our taxpayers, says Neptune Committeeman Randy Bishop.

Intertech Associates in Freehold and Jersey Professional Management in Cranford are conducting the study.

The results are expected in six to nine months.


By: Janet Fried

Two Lawmakers Are Pushing For Passage Of Legislation They Say Would Protect The Health Of Beachgoers

Us Senator Frank Lautenberg and Congressman Frank Pallone are sponsoring legislation that would require rapid water quality tests and result in more grant money so states can study where the pollution is coming from.

“This measure will provide funding to further protect our shores from pollution and improve beach water monitoring,” says Senator Frank Lautenberg.

“The Jersey Shore is an invaluable treasure and we need to keep it that way,” says Congressman Frank Pallone.

The legislation was passed by the US House of Representatives in July and passed the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in June.

By: Janet Fried

Many Monmouth And Ocean County Residents Don’t Have Access To Preventative Healthcare. A Free Event In Long Branch Today Hopes To Change That

The health fair at the Monmouth Family Health Center on Broadway Avenue in Long Branch from 2pm until 5pm will be an opportunity for people without health insurance to find out about the services that are available to them says center Spokeswoman Beatriz Oesterheld.

“We sign up the children whose families don’t have insurance for New Jersey Kids Care,” says Oesterheld.

She says the fair will also include dental, vision and skin cancer screenings as well as HIV testing.

Oesterheld says about 300 people attended the event last year.

The health fair is in celebration of National Health Center Week that runs through august 15th.

By: Janet Fried

Middletown Has Come Up With A Plan To Help Some Of Its Residents Who Are Plagued With Severe Flooding When It Rains

Middletown Engineer Ted Maloney says if there 's a high tide and rain the streets in the Port Monmouth part of town become a river.

“It prevents the residents from getting through their streets and it prevents a few residents near the low lying parts of the street from getting out of their driveways,” says Maloney.

He says his plan, which is in the design phase, includes building a berm, repairing pipes, installing a slide gate, a pumping station, drainage pipe and a generator.

Maloney says the project would be done in three phases and cost about $1Million.

He says the next step is to see if the town can get funding from The Army Corps of Engineers.

By: Janet Fried

An Expert Offers Advice On How To Prepare And Motivate Your Kids For The Start Of The New School Year

Willa Spicer, Deputy Commissioner of the State Department of Education, says studies have shown that children who do not work on the skills they learned during the previous school year over the summer are more likely to loose them in the fall.

“Anything that you can do that helps children to use the skills, not to learn new ones, not to drill and practice, to use them, will be of great help to them as they get older,” says Spicer.

She suggests making your child sit for 10 minutes a day and read a book. She says after a while they will get so into it that it won’t seem like a chore and they’ll finish it.
Also, Spicer suggests you find the math around you and ask your child to help with it.

Spicer says its okay to use rewards and punishment but you have to set it up in advance and be consistent.


By: Janet Fried

Major Drug Seizure In Asbury Park

by Tom Mongelli

Asbury Park and Monmouth County investigators seek your help in an ongoing drug probe that resulted in the seizure of nearly 20 pounds of heroin, cocaine and marijuana Monday in the city.
Thirty-eight-year-old Damien Schenck is being held on almost $1.3 million bail in the Monmouth Correctional Institution.
Investigators say they found Schenck holding about five ounces of cocaine in his SUV during a Monday traffic stop. A search of two Asbury apartments, police say, yielded a massive stash of cocaine and heroin with a street value of over a million dollars. Authorities say they also found two handguns, an AR-15 assault rifle, and ammunition including hollow-point bullets. They seized four fur coats and three cars as well.
Schenck faces multiple first- and third-degree drug charges and second-degree weapons counts. The most severe penalties could place Schenck in a state prison for up to 20 years if he's convicted.

Investigators continue to probe Schenck's suspected connections to drug distribution in Monmouth County. He owns an operates a music shop, the 1500 Store, on Bangs Avenue.

Anyone with information that can help the investigation should call Detective Scott Samis at the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office. Reach him at 732-751-2200.

An Expert Believes The Bomb Threats At Three Synagogues In Monmouth County This Week Are Connected To The Arrests Of Two Deal Rabbis Last Month

Etzion Neuer with the New Jersey Office of the Anti-Defamation League says he hopes the bomb threats at two Long Branch synagogues and one in Deal Tuesday are an isolated incident but local synagogues have been encouraged already to review their security procedures.

The Synagogue of Deal received a bomb threat. One of its rabbis is the father of Solomon Dwek, who was allegedly the cooperating witness in the corruption and money laundering investigation that resulted in 44 arrests last month including three mayors, two state lawmakers and five rabbis. A second rabbi at the temple is Rabbi Edmond Nahum who was arrested last month.

Neuer says he has not seen an overall spike in anti-Semitic incidents because of the recent arrests.

By: Janet Fried

A National Talent Search Takes Place at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson This Weekend

By: Rosetta Key

The re-invention of the Oscar-winning movie FAME could unlock the doors of opportunity for another talented handful across the country.

That's the hope when Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township, N.J. host one of the FAME National Talent Search Multi-city Tours this weekend. Six Flags spokeswoman Angel Aristone says they're teaming up with MGM Studios in conjunction with the release of the movie to give performers a chance at their big break. She says they're accepting 400 qualifying registrants when sign ups start at 9:30 a.m. Saturday.

"On August 8th we're having the big audition in the park and we're picking the top ten best from that audition and they will move on to the semi-finals on August 9th. And then the top pick on that day is going to be headed to L.A. for the final contest."

Aristone says similar competitions are taking place at six of their theme parks throughout the country where seven finalist will be selected.

The Grand Prize includes a five-day trip to Hollywood for an exclusive meeting with a top talent agent and studio executive, a photo spread in OK! Magazine, $5,000 dollars and inclusion of their winning live performance in the FAME DVD.

Aristone encourages anyone who can sing, dance or play an instrument to audition. She says, "Sunday's semi-finals also includes a special performance by V-Factory featuring FAME'S Asher Book who plays "Marco," a charismatic singer pursuing his dream."

Those who can not attend can submit a video to myspace.com/fame. You can get more details at www.generationfame.com or log onto www.sixflags.com.

Help Needy Animals by Bargain Shopping

By Sarah Zucco

Looking for bargains in Toms River? Shop at the Shore Animal Volunteer Enterprise's Thrift Shop and Adoption Center on Fischer Boulevard. Clothing, home accessories, books, DVDs, and much more can be found at inexpensive prices. S.A.V.E also greatly welcomes donations of good, clean, sellable items. Generated revenue from the thrift shop helps S.A.V.E. provide medical services and other necessary care to unwanted and rescued local critters. This independent non profit organization relies heavily on monetary and gift donations to continue its operations during these hard economic times, when more animals are becoming displaced and in need of urgent help. S.A.V.E also fully supports its foster homes for animals.



Anyone looking for a new pet is encouraged to visit S.A.V.E.'s adoption center behind the thrift shop, which contains numerous kittens and other animals ready to find a permanent home. S.A.V.E welcomes volunteers, who can spend time working in the shop or with the adorable animals in the adoption center. Donations of products from S.A.V.E's "Wish List" are greatly appreciated for use in the center and animal foster homes.

The Thrift Shop and Adoption Center are open Tuesday through Saturday.

Send questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.

9Th District Republicans Soon to Select Van Pelt's Replacement

Rosetta Key

Republican leaders in the 9th legislative district that covers Ocean, Burlington and Atlantic counties are waiting for a letter from the Secretary of State announcing the vacancy of an Assembly seat following Dan Van Pelt's resignation last week.

Ocean County G-O-P Chairman George Gilmore says they'll have seven days following the receipt of that letter to send notice to County Committee members in the district to attend a convention. Gilmore says during the convention, "We'll adopt procedures for a nominating process and then a vote. Historically ... we've always required that any successful candidate receive 50 percent plus one vote."

He adds, "how he would intend the process to work is that we vote first to fill the vacancy on the ballot. Once that person is selected, I am going to make the assumption that the county committee members will vote to put the same person in that legislative seat for the balance of the term. "

So far, Gilmore says ten individuals have submitted their names for consideration and he anticipates that he'll receive several more of the next couple of days.

When asked if he believes the scandal and resignation will hurt the Republican Party in November elections? He says no. "lets face it, corruption in New Jersey has been a problem for a long time and it doesn't know any party boundaries. You've had Republicans and Democrats indicted. I think that's a failure of the individual and not the party."

A Bill Working Its Way Through Washington Would Make Sure Beachgoers Know About Closings As Soon As Possible

Congressman Frank Pallone is sponsoring legislation that would require water quality tests that could be completed in a few hours instead of days. The measure would also provide more money to track the sources of pollution and try and prevent them.

“If the water is polluted people could be swimming in it for a day or two before its actually closed or the water could be clean and it would be a day or two before the beach could reopen,” said Congressman Pallone.

“It’s important to provide the public with timely information on whether the beach is clean or dirty,” said Cindy Zipf, Clean Ocean Action Executive Director.

Congressman Pallone's legislation passed the House last week but Senator Frank Lautenberg's version of the bill is moving more slowly through the Senate.

A report out last week by The Natural Resources Defense Council found that in 2008 there were 208 days of beach closures or advisories in New Jersey as compared to 142 in 2007.

By: Janet Fried

A New Program At Asbury Park High School Aims To Help Students Who May Not Have Positive Role Models In Their Lives

Asbury Park High School has struggled for years with low standardized test scores and high dropout rates. But a new mentoring program is trying to make sure the students have positive role models to help lead them down the right path.

30 students were paired with mentors from the community this past school year. The students were mostly freshmen and they had to get parental permission.

The mentors were community members who were as young as 25 and as old as 81. They had to undergo background checks, meet with school officials and agree to mentor a child for at least a year, but hopefully until they graduated.

There are different levels of mentoring. Some mentors met with their student during the school day on the school grounds, while others met with their student after school in the community. The program also tries to match students up with mentors who have jobs that the teens are considering pursuing in the future.

"The goal is basically to just give our students an additional caring adult who can kind of be an advocate, a cheerleader, a guide, just a friend basically, said Sheldon Sanders, the health and Social Services Coordinator at Asbury Park High School.

Sanders says the adults also benefit from the mentor program because they feel good about giving back to their community.


By: Janet Fried

About 45,000 People Are Expected To Attend The Haskell Invitational At Monmouth Park Racetrack This Sunday And Traffic Will Be Heavy In The Area

Oceanport police will be directing traffic, controlling lights and have signs posted this Sunday to keep vehicles moving around Monmouth Park.

Gates open at 10am. The Haskell race will be at about 6:10pm and last until 6:40pm.

From 10am until 1pm Oceanport Avenue will be closed to northbound traffic from the main gate of the track to Port-Au-Peck Avenue. Local traffic should use Eatontown Boulevard or Branchport Avenue.

From about 6pm until 8:30pm, Oceanport Avenue will be closed in both directions from Highway 36 to Port-Au-Peck avenue to allow exiting traffic to leave the area.

Port-Au-Peck and Myrtle Avenues will be closed to traffic westbound from 6pm until 8:30pm.

Motorists should expect delays Sunday on Route 71, Route 537, Main Street, Oceanport Avenue, Route 36.

By: Janet Fried

Officials Meet To Discuss The Health Of The Barnegat Bay

by Jason Allentoff

Lacey Township - Members of the State Assembly and Senate Enviornmental Committee heard testimony from dozens of concerned enviornmentalists and residents of Ocean County on the health of the Barnegat Bay.

And the findings were absolutely startling. For the past 10 years, the bay has seen a large amount of degradtion thanks to overdevelopment, pollution and stormwater runoff. High levels of nitrogen from lawn fertilizers are also causing major issues for the entire ecosystem. Essex County Assemblyman John McKeon, who chairs the Assembly Environment Committee, says they're not taking this lightly and they are working to find a way to ban certain fertalizers and are pushing people to use more organic products.

But Jeff Titel of the Sierra Club says talk is cheap. He feels the event was nothing more than a dog and pony show and actions speak louder than words. Titel says "we've been talking about Barnegat Bay for the past ten years and nothing has changed - no actions have been taking. He feels it's up to the lawmakers in this state to take decisive action and actually "do something other than flapping their gums."

John Watson of the Department of Enviornmental Protection says they're well aware of the situation and the goal of Thursday's meeting is to map out a definitive plan. He says "the Bay is a significant part of tourism and we can't just watch a billion dollar industry go down the tubes."

The Barnegat Bay encompasses all the land and water in Ocean County and parts of Monmouth County including 42 miles of shoreline. Spanning 38 municipalities, it includes fresh water from nine streams and rivers that flow into the Bay. It stretches as far as Barrier islands to the east and Plumsted Township to the west and is bound by Point Pleasant Canal in the north and Little Egg Harbor to the south.

Witnesses at the hearing testified that more than fifty percent of the contamination of the Bay's waters is from fertilizer runoff. Rain laced with chemicals from cars and factories and groundwater contamination from development are also factors.

Some of the recommended measures to slow down the contamination include:

- directing storm water runoff into groundwater systems to improve filtration

- using slow-release fertilizer to limit nitrogen emissions

- limit the use of fertilizers during the winter and before rains

- setting total maximum daily loads of fertilizers

The Haskell Invitational Is This Sunday At Monmouth Park Racetrack In Oceanport

With a purse of $1.25 million, the Haskell is the richest invitational horse racing event contested in North America and its expected to draw thousands of people to Monmouth Park racetrack in Oceanport this Sunday.

Even though people attending the Haskell will stay at local hotels and eat at area restaurants when its all said and done New Jersey's horse racing industry still faces increasing competition from surrounding states.

“We have an ongoing purse subsidy agreement with the casino industry so we’re comfortable that we have a sufficient amount of dollars to maintain our purse structure through 2011, says Carl Goldberg, Chairman of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority.

The governor has named a commission to address solutions that will promote the sustained viability of the horse racing industry in New Jersey. A report is expected next year.

By: Janet Fried

New Jersey Had More Beach Closings Last Year As Compared To The Previous Year

A report by The Natural Resources Defense Council says in 2008 there were 208 days of closures or advisories in New Jersey as compared to 142 in 2007. 117 of the days were because of a criminal medical dumping event in Cape May.

“At the beach families should be able to relax and not worry about swimming in human and animal waste that can make them sick,” says Heather Saffert, Staff Scientist, Clean Ocean Action.

Ocean County had the highest number of beach monitoring samples that exceeded the state's daily maximum bacterial standards, followed by Monmouth, Cape May and Atlantic Counties.

“Developers are loving the Shore to death, and beach-goers are paying the price,” says Doug O'Malley, Field Director for Environment New Jersey.

The report found a 10 percent decrease in closing and advisory days at beaches nationwide in 2008 but says the weather and less water monitoring are the cause not improved water quality.

For the Natural Resources Defense Council’s full report go to www.nrdc.org.


By: Janet Fried

One Beach Patrol Captain Says Its Been An Average Summer At The Jersey Shore When Its Comes To Rescues And Injuries

Joe Gomulka, Captain of the Seaside Park Beach Patrol, says there haven’t been any drownings, there’s been several injuries and they’ve rescued about 3 or 4 people a week.

“Go where there’s life guards and when the lifeguards leave, its time to go home,” says Gomulka.

Gomulka says shore breaks, a type of wave that breaks in very shallow water, have caused neck and back injuries at some New Jersey beaches this summer but not Seaside Park.

But Gomulka says every day there’s some type of rip current that can cause problems for inexperienced swimmers.

“If you are not ocean savvy it’s a very tricky place, you may think its nice in one particular spot, ten minutes later that spot has some type of current that’s going through there,” says Gomulka.

By: Janet Fried

Swine Flu Could Worsen In The Fall - New Jersey Is Ready!

by Jason Allentoff

According to the New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services, the Garden State is ready to combat the H1-N1 Influenza or Swine Flu this Fall.

As of today, there are 934 confirmed cases of Swine Flu and 15 deaths. The state continues to keep a close eye on things while a vaccine is being developed. State officials believe there is a good chance the number of H1-N1 cases will increase after the summer.

Dr. Susan Walsh says conditions that weaken the immune system such as asthma, emphysema or cancer are just a small sample of underlying health conditions that could worsen the Swine Flu. What about the strain mutating once the colder months arrive?

So there's been 934 confirmed cases since April of this year. But haven't most of them healed? Walsh says yes - within 7 to 10 days of getting the symptoms, most of them were fully free of the novel influenza and if the virus doesn't mutate, people can't get it more than once.

Health officials continue to enforce good hygiene and hand washing as the best prevention we have. They expect the vaccine to be ready sometime in late October, early November.

Proposed Federal Health Reforms gets Another Boost

Another one of Jersey's Democratic Washington Lawmakers comes up to bat to help promote the proposed federal health care reform legislation making its way through capital hill.

12th District Congressman Rush Holt, who's district covers parts of Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer and Somerset Counties, fielded anywhere from commonly asked questons to charged questions about the "America's Affordable Health Choice Act" during last nights telephone listening session.

One of the most frequently asked questions came from a Somerset County woman who wanted to know if there was any truth to what she's heard about the possibility of employeers opting to drop their health coverage to employees in mass because it would be cheaper than having to pay the penalty? Congressman Holt says very likely not.

"If employeers don't insure their employees ... they would be taxed. In other words, they would have to pay 8 percent of their total payroll in taxes if they choose not to provide health care. He says for most of them, that would be enough incentive to lead them to continue the health care they have or to provide the health care they don't now provide."

Other callers asked if they could choose to go back to their employeers plan if they didn't like the public plan? To which Holt said yes. A man from East Brunswick asked why the enormus Health Choice Act was needed in the first place?

Holt's answer, "We have the choice of doing this reform or condemning Americans to live sicker, die younger and to pay more than they have to".

Holt explained to callers that the reforms would change our approach to health care by moving the emphasis away from paying for proceedures and a shift toward paying for wellness and total patient care.

Holts tele-conference follows a efforts by President Barack Obama to tout the importance of the Health care reform act while stumping for Governor Jon Corzine. It was also promoted by 6th District Congressman Frank Pallone.

By: Rosetta Key

Point Beach Mayor Says He's Not Going Anywhere!

by Jason Allentoff

An embattled mayor claims fraud and bad faith on the part of those seeking to oust him from office. Now Point Pleasant Beach's Vincent Barrella is fighting back.

41 duplicated signatures, 131 non-registered voter signatures and even the size of the paper the petition was printed on has Mayor Vincent Barrella seeking to stop the recall effort. Barrella says the organizers who want to see him gone have not done it in absolute good faith.

Barrella, who's been in office since 2007, says the petition never states why they want him out. He feels it's all political from a few people who are placing their own interests ahead of residents and taxpayers of the town. Barrella says he's not going anywhere. He's served as Mayor since being elected back in 2007.

Congressman Takes Comments On Health Care

by Tom Mongelli

President Barack Obama's prioritization of health care reform prompts a local Congressman to take your questions and offer explanations on Monday night.

Representative Rush Holt (D-12) begins his newest telephone town-hall meeting tonight at 7:40. It'll be a one-hour session. Members of Holt's legislative staff tell us that response is increasing in small but steady increments since he initiated them about a year ago. They're primarily aimed at, but not limited to, homeowners and taxpayers in his district.

Holt's 12th Congressional District cuts through the center of Monmouth, Middlesex and Mercer Counties. At the shore, it includes the areas around Oceanport, Eatontown, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Little Silver, Rumson, Lincroft, Morganville, and Englishtown.

State and national proposals for healthcare reform ostensibly seek to guarantee the broadest possible coverage base with affordable rates. Federal proponents contend that their plan is not intended to replace private insurance concerns, but to compete with them.

The number to dial is 1-877-269-7289. Once you establish a connection, you'll be asked to enter a personal identification number. The PIN number is 13864.

Caveat: In previous sessions, given contact numbers have been switched without notice. To reach his West Windsor office beforehand, call toll free: 1-87-RUSHHOLT. Call before the close of business at 4 PM.

Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.

Assemblyman Dan Van Pelt Arrested - County Residents Stunned

by Jason Allentoff & Tom Mongelli

Shore-based Assemblyman Daniel Van Pelt is among the most prominent shore-based arrestees among 44 rounded up in a two-tiered federal probe into political corruption and money laundering. Van Pelt is charged with taking 10-thousand dollars from a cooperating witness posing as a developer seeking state approvals for construction in Waretown. He was mayor for a decade, and folks there mix disbelief with cynicism.

While some people we spoke with were totally speechless, others felt it was to be expected. There were quite a few people who knew Van Pelt personally and said he had done "such good things for the community that its very hard to believe that this happened." Some other remarks came from people who feel that New Jersey is too far gone to fix when it comes to corruption and this is just a prime example of "how deep the roots and seeds of corruption run."

Van Pelt's Ninth-District colleagues are Senator Chris Connors and Assemblyman Brian Rumpf. They both are pressing Van Pelt to resign as soon as possible. State Assembly Republican Leader Alex Decroce is also calling for the resignation sooner rather than later. He has stated clearly that "Daniel Van Pelt cannot represent his district effectively with this cloud hanging over his head."

Also charged with extortion are Charlie Amon and Former Assembly Candidate Jeff Williamson, both of Lakewood and Denis Jaslow of Wall Township. Among those facing money laundering counts are Eli Ben Haim of Long Branch and Edward Nahum of Deal, principal rabbis of a Deal synagogue where neighbors are understandably shaken.

Be sure to stay tuned to WOBM News and the Millennium Radio News Network for continuing updates on this developing story.

Two Monmouth County Rabbis Are Caught Up In Corruption And Money Laundering Probe

Authorities say the investigation initially focused on a money laundering network operating between Brooklyn, Deal and Israel. The network allegedly laundered millions of dollars through Jewish charities controlled by rabbis in New York and New Jersey.

Over 40 people were arrested Thursday including three mayors, two state lawmakers and five rabbis. Rabbi Eliahu Ben Haim with Congregation Ohel Yaacob and Rabbi Edmond Nahum with The Deal Synagogue are two of the rabbis that were arrested and charged with money laundering. FBI and IRS agents also removed several boxes from The Deal Yeshiva, a school that educates Sephardic Jewish children.

“I’m saddened and troubled by this and hope that this is an isolated incident and that if found guilty they’re prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” said Howard Gases, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Monmouth County.

The synagogues declined to comment on the investigation.

By: Janet Fried

Cops & Collegians Go To Bat For Kids With Cancer

By: Julia Bruder

The New Jersey State Troopers are scheduled to take on the Atlantic Baseball Confederation Collegiate League in a ballgame benefitting children with pediatric cancer. First Energy Park, Home of the Lakewood Blueclaws, will host the game on Sunday, July 26th at 11am.

All proceeds from the ticket sales will go directly to 'Camp Quality,' a NJ non-profit organization dedicated to "letting children with cancer be kids again." Each summer, camp director Frank Dalatto, along with many volunteers (including extraordinary college students from Rutgers, Penn State and Monclair University) provide a week-long, fun-filled event for young cancer patients at a campground in Blairstown.

Dalotto admits that he never saw himself taking on such a role, but finds it a truly rewarding.

"The way Camp Quality got its name is - it was determined we can't do much about the quantity of life but we can certainly do something about the quality," said Dalotto.

The camp provides both adventurous and passive recreational activities for cancer patients ages 5-17. Each child is placed with a "companion," usually a college volunteer who serves as their personal caretaker for the week. The camp is designed to instill a little joy in each child fighting such a tiring battle.

"It's a wonderful program. You go there and meet such wonderful people and the smiles on the kids faces are just awesome," said Dalatto.

Dalotto explained that there are children fighting all severities of cancer in attendance each year.

"We've had kids with as little as three months to live, even some children in remission. We take them all," he said.

Families are encouraged to come out on Sunday to not only support this great cause, but to enjoy what should be an excellent ballgame, with perks! It is a rare chance to meet and greet participants from both teams.

Centrastate in Freehold and the Sunrise Optimist Club are partnering in Sunday's game. For more details visit WOBM.COM or CAMPQUALITYNJ.ORG.

Questions/Comments to WOBM News at WOBM.COM

Assemblyman Dan Van Pelt of Ocean County Arrested In Statewide Sweep

A Millennium Radio exclusive this morning. Federal agents have been scouring the state in what is being described as one of the largest sweeps in state history involving public officials and others. A large number of cases involving everything from money laundering, political bids, and black market body parts. Among those also being rounded up this morning are a number of rabbi's...but their connection remains unclear. Busloads of suspects from Ocean Monmouth and Hudson Counties will begin arriving at the Newark Federal Courthouse within an hour.

Those arrested include 9th District Assemblyman Dan Van Pelt of Ocean County and some rabbi's in Deal and the Elberon section of Long Branch. 45-year-old Pelt was elected to the state Assembly back in November of 2007. He was also the Mayor of Waretown from 1998 until last year.

We will keep you up to date on further developments as we get them.

A New Study Finds Harmful Bacteria Could Be Lurking In The Sand At Your Favorite Beach

You've heard that swimming in the ocean at certain times can make you sick and now a new study finds the sand at the beach might also be bad for your health.

Researchers interviewed 25,000 beach goers at seven beaches around the country that are within seven miles of sewage treatment plants.

The sand had high levels of fecal bacteria and the people who came in the most contact with it through digging or by being buried were most likely to develop gastrointestinal illnesses.

“I think its just a matter of taking care to use a hand sanitizer or wash your hands after you’ve played in the sand, especially before you are about to eat,” said the lead author of the study, Christopher Heaney of the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

By: Janet Fried

Spay-Neuter Clinic Upcoming in Lakehurst

By Amber Brown

Especially during these hard times of economic recession, Ocean County pet owners may be appreciative of the fact that the Ocean County Health Department is supporting the Volunteer Auxiliary for Animal Shelters' low cost spaying and neutering program. On August 17 the Lakehurst Fire Department Community Center will be hosting this clinic at 8:30 a.m. for dogs and at 9 a.m. for cats.

For just $45 a family's cat can be spayed and for $60 one can have their dog neutered, plus the animals will receive rabies shots at no extra cost. However, there is a two pet maximum per household and dogs must weigh 45 pounds or less, so take him for a run if you have to!

County Health Coordinator Dr. Ella Boyd says, "This clinic can help a family of modest means meet the costs of such a service."

Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little agrees that this low cost clinic can be very helpful stating, "The low cost clinics can be very helpful to families with limited funds who wish to spay or neuter their pet but can't afford to do so during the current economic downturn."

Animal advocates say the procedure not only helps keeps pet populations under control, but also reduces their risks of certain types of cancers and diseases. Also, according to the Ocean County Health Department Public Information Officer Leslie Terjesen, the veterinarians are licensed and ready to perform using dissolvable stitches, so no worries there.

Appointments are now being taken, so call 732-657-8086 to pre-register today!

A Bill Working Its Way Through Trenton Would Protect Some Of New Jersey's Most Vulnerable Residents

Tara O'Leary weighed only 43 pounds when she died on November 10, 2008. The 29 year old was living in a New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities sponsor home in Hunterdon County.

Senator Jennifer Beck and Assembly Members Caroline Casagrande and Declan O’Scanlon are sponsoring legislation that would require case managers to provide written reports of their visits, establish a registry of providers who are implicated in incidents of abuse and create a 24 hour hotline for people to report abuse.

Under the legislation, if a person has reasonable cause to believe a developmentally disabled person is being abused they are to report it to the Department of Human Services or they may face six months in prison or a $1,000 fine.

“It is nice to see that her memory is honored with a law that will help prevent other’s with similar disabilities to not suffer the same fate as Tara,” said Tara’s cousin, Little Silver resident Eileen Devlin.

By: Janet Fried

Police Investigating Noontime Bank Robbery in Toms River

By Sarah Zucco

Toms River Township Police are continuing their search for a man responsible for a bank heist that occured before noon today at the Kearny Federal Branch located on Fischer Boulevard. According to Police Chief Mike Mastronardy, the suspect left on foot with cash, which he demanded from the teller after indicating he had a weapon that was never revealed. Witnesses described the suspect as a white male about 35 years old, approximately six feet tall and 230 pounds with brown hair. He was also reported wearing a blue golf shirt containing dark blue and white horizontal stripes, and blue shorts.

Anyone with information that could help the investigation should contact Toms River Police at (732) 349-0150.


Address questions/comments to wobm news@wobm.com.

Jackson Council President Launches Mayoral Bid

By Tom Mongelli

Claiming leadership strength and frugal spending, Jackson Township Council President Michael Kafton today announced his intention to become the community's next mayor this November. Also on his ticket is Councilman Dr. Howard Tilis, seeking his first full term on the governing body since being appointed last January.

"Jackson, more than ever, needs a strong leader to guide it through these very difficult times," says Kafton, "and I strongly feel that I am the person who can successfully accomplish this." Kafton served as Mayor under the township's former Committee government format. Among his most recent cost-cutting endeavors is formation of the Going Green Committee, whose task is to incorporate environmentally-friendly methods into government operations in ways that reduce the property tax burden.

Dr. Tilis says that Kafton's methods have impressed him. "I am confident," he says, "that together, we can make a difference to all Jackson residents as we move ahead."

Former Councilman Mike Reina currently occupies the Mayor's post. His goals have been to create more transparency and accountability to township government. Among his current proposals to mitigate the property-tax bite facing homeowners is a reduction in the voluntary set-aside in the levy for open space preservation.

Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.

Monmouth County Residents React to The Republican Candidate For Governor’s Selection of A Running Mate

Republican gubernatorial candidate Chris Christie announced Monday that he has selected Monmouth County Sheriff Kim Guadagno as his running mate.

The 50 year old Monmouth Beach resident is married with three children. She became Monmouth County’s first female Sheriff in January 2008. Before that she was a Monmouth Beach commissioner. Guadagno is an attorney who teaches at Rutgers University Law School. She is also a former Assistant United States Attorney and Assistant Attorney General.

Monmouth County residents have mixed reactions to Christie’s pick. One woman says, “I think the best candidate should win, it shouldn't’t matter whether it’s a male or a female just as long as it’s the right person to do the right job for us.” An Asbury Park man says, “I need to know records, I need to know where they stand on issues, I need to know what they are going to do for urban issues.”

Governor Jon Corzine has not said who his running mate will be. He has until next Monday to make that announcement.
This is the first time a Lieutenant Governor is on the ticket in New Jersey.

By: Janet Fried

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA VISITS MONMOUTH COUNTY TO RALLY FOR THE GOVERNOR

President Barack Obama visits Monmouth County today to try to rally support for Governor Jon Corzine's
re-election campaign.

More than 52,000 people sought tickets to the
event at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel.

A Monmouth University/Gannett New Jersey poll released shows three-quarters of those surveyed say their vote for governor will be based solely on state and local issues.

Skin Cancer Screenings Coming Up

by Jason Allentoff

While many are out enjoying fun in the summer sun, people often forget their risk for skin cancer increases dramatically. That's why the Choose Your Cover promotion is under way statewide.

Members of the Ocean County Cancer Coalition came out Wednesday morning in Ship Bottom to announce details. Also in attendance was Dr. Arnold Baskies. He is the Chairman of the Governor's Task Force on Cancer Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment. Baskies says free melanoma screenings will be offered for free on Saturday, July 25th.

The Choose Your Cover Screenings will take place from 10 A.M. until 2 P.M. Locations are as follows: Asbury Park Beach on the Boardwalk at Ocean Avenue, Bradley Beach on the Ocean Avenue section at Lorraine Avenue, Brick Beach 3, Brigantine at the 16th Street Gazebo, Cape May on the boardwalk at the Great Law area, Highlands Family Beach at 22 Snug Harbor Avenue, Long Branch on the boardwalk at the Great Lawn area, Ortley Beach at 4th and Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright Boro Beach at 1097 Ocean Avenue, Ship Bottom at the 20th Street beach end and in Ventnor at the Ventnor Community Center.

Clean Ocean Action Wants New Jersey To Update Its Beach Rules

The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services is preparing to re-adopt its beach rules. Clean Ocean Action says the rules are old and are inconsistent with the United States Environmental Protection Agency guidelines to protect public health.

"The outdated existing rules are inadequate, fail to protect public health, and lack common sense," says Cindy Zipf, Executive Director, Clean Ocean Action.

She says the current beach rules rely on old testing methods that take 24 hours to produce results and the state should adopt rapid testing methods as soon as possible.

Zipf adds the current rules require two days of consecutive water samples exceeding allowable levels of fecal contamination but she would like to see health advisories posted at beaches after one sampling day of high results.

She says she would also like to see the state create public health rules for highly used recreation waters, make the data publically availabel and increase testing.

Finally, Zipf says better communication is also needed to inform the public about the water quality test results in a timely manner.

To see all of Clean Ocean Action's recommended changes to the Beach Rules go to:

http://www.cleanoceanaction.org/fileadmin/editor_group1/Science_Comment_Letters/Beach_Rule_Seven_Simple_Ways.pdf


By: Janet Fried

The Thompson Park Visitors Center Reopens

Its been over three years since the Thompson Park Visitors Center in Lincroft burned to the ground but the building was reconstructed and is now open to the public.

Monmouth County Freeholder Lillian Burry says the county lost an incredible piece of history and a very important park of the park system on February 6, 2006.

Burry says the building has been reconstructed with respect for its historic roots while keeping in mind that we are in the 21st century.

She says the building has an elevator and a sprinkler system.

Burry says the reconstruction finished ahead of schedule and under its originally estimated $10 million budget.


By: Janet Fried

Rip Current Awareness

by Jason Allentoff

The top ten beaches named by the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium back in May take part in a special outreach campaign regarding rip currents.
The beaches on the list from Sandy Hook down to Cape May will serve as Ambassador Communities for Rip Current Awareness. There will be brochures at beach badge stands, you'll see signs posted around and the lifeguards will serve as a mouthpiece to the initiative. Director of Communications Kim Kosko says it's something that they've done in the past and seems to be successful. Education continues to be a key component of any awareness campaign and this one is no exception.

So far this summer, there have been several deaths and accidents related to rip currents. Kosko and the other members of the Consortium feel that if this campaign spreads out wide enough, they can cut down on the number of incidents.

The beaches that were on the top ten list include Ocean City, Long Beach Island, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, Asbury Park, North Wildwood, Cape May, Seaside Heights, Sea Isle City and Avalon.

Many Jersey Residents Are Complaining About Unkept Foreclosed Homes

The bank is responsible for the upkeep when a home goes into foreclosure but many properties around the state are being neglected and it becomes a problem for the neighbors and the towns.

Foreclosed homes that are not maintained become eyesores and can attract crime says Bill Dressel, The Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

Dressel says from the municipal standpoint it’s also a loss in ratable.

Another problem is when banks do not maintain foreclosed properties the burden sometimes falls on the towns.

By: Janet Fried

Ocean County Fair

By: Julia Bruder

The Ocean County fair is back for its 63rd year! The fair that opens July 14th with rides, games, animals and more, has become quite a tradition for families in Ocean County. With about 50,000 people in attendance each year, it's as much as a part of the summer season as a day at the beach or a stroll on the boardwalk.

Chip Meyer, this year's acting manager, is ecstatic to see that the fair has grown to be the main attraction of Ocean County each July. In fact, because of its booming popularity, the fair outgrew its humble roots at Lakewood Park and has been operating at Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkley Township for the last 30-some years.

What's to expect this year? Well the fair has yet again added many new and exciting attractions. Among them are Bwana Jim's Wildlife Show, Dale Jones: the One-Handed Juggler, a race car display from New Egypt Speedway, and a rockin' performance from up and coming Country-Western band "Williams Riley"of Nashville, Tennessee.

But let's not forget the always annual attractions such as the Jon Bundy and Morgan Magical Illusion Show (a crowd favorite), vendors and merchants, and of course, delicious fair food from funnel cakes to cotton candy!

"We try to bring in things that are exciting to everyone, from large rides that are more for the thrill-seekers, to childrens' games, animals, and shows." says Meyer.

The fair hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 5pm to 11pm, Thursday through Saturday 11am to 11pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm.

Fair Tickets are $6 each. Children under 10 are free.

"One thing that we're proudest of is that especially in this economy, we've managed to keep all the same days and all the same hours we've always had. Our admission price hasn't changed in several years. It's still just an economical family type of event," says Meyers.

So, be sure to bring the family out for a fun-filled day in our community as the Ocean County fair will not disappoint!

For more information and official itinerary visit the Ocean County Fair Website at: http://www.oceancountyfair.com/.

A Special Commission Is Trying To Figure Out How To Save New Jersey's Horse Racing Industry

The Governor's Commission on the Horse Racing Industry has until next July to submit recommendations to the governor.

“There are many different areas we are looking at from how could the industry itself revitalize to attract new participants, what should be done with the tracks and whether or not there should be gaming at the tracks,” says Robert Bildner, The Governor’s Commission on the Horse Racing Industry Chair.

The commission met Wednesday at Monmouth Park in Oceanport

New Jersey's horse racing industry employs almost 4,000 people, generates about $31 million annually and promotes about 176,000 acres of green space throughout the state.

By: Janet Fried

Abduction Attempt in Ship Bottom Triggers Search

by Tom Mongelli

Ship Bottom police are searching for a woman suspected of trying to abduct two preteens on the borough's beachfront in the middle of Monday afternoon.

The suspect is described as being in her 30s, 5'6" to 5'8", medium build, with short curly brown hair possibly configured in a bun shape. She was seen wearing bright red lipstick, a bright red short-sleeved shirt and tan Capri pants.

Police say the woman struck up a conversation they describe as "rude and provocative" with a six-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl at the 15th Street beach entrance around 2:00 in the afternoon. Police say the girl ran, but the boy had to free himself from her grip on his arm before he could run, at which point they reported the incident to their parents.

Investigators seek witnesses who may have information that can help their probe. Reach Ship Bottom Police 609-494-3055. Sergeant Jim Butler's extension is 115. Detective M. Nash's extension is 110.

Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.

Global Scammers Invade Ocean County

by Tom Mongelli

Ocean County authorities are combating a multi-platform assault by international scammers on residents throughout the county, especially seniors. Criminals are using overland mail, phones and the Internet simultaneously in their attempt to invade homes, con residents out of thousands, and ruin their credit by lifting credit-card information.

Sergeant Cindy Boyd at the County Prosecutor's office says that the current wave is a combination of the two main approaches - those that give potential victims a false sense of hope, and those that give them a false sense of danger.

Most scams being reported to her office begin as mail notification of winnings in a foreign lottery. "They're receiving letters, some with checks, some with just contact phone numbers or e-mail, requesting that they contact them," says Boyd. But the checks are counterfeit, and the con artists seek small "processing fees," usually 20 or 30 dollars, according to Boyd.

Resistance is met with escalating degrees of anger, says the sergeant. Scammers use the web to look up phone numbers of potential victims, then launch a barrage of threatening calls. Some victims cave in to the pressure, sending thousands of hard-earned dollars.

In some instances, callers pose as federal agents, demanding payment for a variety of reasons - occasionally to resolve the lottery scam, sometimes to resolve a contrived situation implicating friends or relatives.

"The FBI, or any federal agency, or law enforcement, will not contact you and verbally assault you over the phone and request money," says Boyd. "It just will not happen." Investigators are working with U.S. postal inspectors to track the path of the ruse. She says Jamaica has been a center of activity, but it's also cropping up elsewhere in spots around the world.

Sergeant Boyd urges anyone getting mail about lotteries they don't recall entering, or phone calls demanding cash to bring it to the attention of local police. Reach the Prosecutor's Office at 732-929-2027.

Clean Ocean Action Is Holding A Rally For Ocean Independence Today

Its at 4:30 on the Asbury Park boardwalk.

Meg Gardner with Clean Ocean Action says she hopes people who attend the event become inspired to think more about the ocean and how they can protect it.

The beach rally will be followed by a paddle out and then a screening of the movie the 11th hour.

By: Janet Fried

There May Still Be Rental Signs Posted Along The Jersey Shore But One Expert Says Things Are Not As Bad As Expected This Summer

The season started out slow but then picked up says Chris Clemans with the New Jersey Association of Realtors.

She says she thinks that they will be at least even with last year in terms of the number of units rented but hopefully up in dollars.

Clemans says there is a higher inventory this year because the economy forced some people to rent out their beach houses for extra income.

By: Janet Fried

SEARCH LAUNCHED FOR ELDERLY FEMALE WITH ALZHEIMER'S

By: Rosetta Key

Berkeley Township police and numerous law enforcement agencies are searching for a missing Clifton woman in South Seaside Park and Island Beach State Park.

Relatives say 72-year-old Julia Madsen, who's staying at 9, 22nd Avenue in Berkeley Township, two blocks from Island Beach State Park, was reported missing after she failed to return from a walk to the beach after 7 o'clock Thursday night.

She's described as a white female, 5"6, 160 lbs, blue eyes, with sandy brown or reddish brown hair. Police say she was wearing a pink shirt, white peddle pushers, brown leather shoes, a silver watch on one hand and a silver and gold bracelet on the other.

State Police helicopters, County Sheriff's K-9 unit, local fire and scuba teams are involved in the search. Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Berkeley Police at 732-341-6600.

BARNEGAT POLICE SEEK THE PUBLIC'S HELP IN TRACKING DOWN A GROPER

By: Rosetta Key

Barnegat Police are trying to track down a man who allegedly groped a woman near a township park late last month. Police Lieutenant Pat Shaffery says the incident occurred on first street when the unknown white male with a heavy Middle-Eastern or Indian accent, pulled up along side a female who was walking and asked her for directions. Police say after the directions where given, the male gave the female a huge during which time he squeezed her buttocks. The male then fled the area as another resident was approaching. The suspect is described as 5"6, medium build, salt and pepper hair, medium complexion with dark circles under his eyes. He was wearing an olive green jacket and blue pants at the time. The witness also said he was operating a tan or gold Nissan sedan. You can view a composite sketch at our news blog at wobm.com. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to contact Detective Maryann Cirulli at 609-698-5000 x223. To remain anonymous, contact the TIPS line at 609-660-TIPS (8477).

Shore Non-Profits Get Homeland Security Grants

By Kevin Belbey

Monmouth University, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Monmouth County and Beth Govoha of America in Lakewood will each receive grants ranging up to $75,000 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funding goes out annually to non-profit groups for security improvements. Twenty-Six New Jersey organizations are dividing $1.6 million, which nearly doubles the amount of funding awarded to NJ last year.

Several criteria were necessary for these select groups wishing to gain the federal aid. Organizations that are recognized historical institutions, in areas that would have response roles in terrorist attacks, or would be vulnerable to attacks, are eligible.

The grant money awarded must be used for things such as the purchase of security equipment or for security training. These grants also mandate a 25% cash match from the organization to spend on security-related affairs.

Please address comments/questions to wobmnews@wobm.com.

A Monmouth State Lawmaker Is Calling For More Funding For 9/11 First Responders

11th District Republican Assemblyman Dave Rible says at least one New Jersey hospital is struggling to provide medical care for almost two thousand sick Nine Eleven responders who rely on world trade center health care programs.

“It is vital that these 9/11 heroes continue to receive the necessary treatment for their ailments,” says Rible.

Rible plans to introduce an assembly resolution urging federal lawmakers to pass HR-847 which guarantees long-term funding for existing world trade center health care programs.


By: Janet Fried

SOME JERSEY DOCTOR'S ARE PRESCRIBING PARENT CHILD READING TIME

Reach Out and Read is a national non-profit early literacy program that provides books to children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years living at or near poverty through participating clinics, hospitals and doctor's offices.

Doctors participating in the program distribute developmentally and culturally appropriate books to patients and talk about the importance of reading with their parents.

Last year New Jersey doctors gave almost 50,000 kids books at 48 Reach Out and Read sites throughout the state.

A Reach Out and Read site in Long Branch received a donation of 1,000 books Monday to give to its young patients.


By: Janet Fried

Fugitive Assault Suspect Indicted

By Tom Mongelli

A fugitive who once called Hazlet home remains on the loose, but he's been indicted by a grand jury in Freehold, accused of orchestrating an assault against a 67-year-old Holmdel man and his family.

Fifty-five-year-old Salvatore Viscusi was charged last September by Holmdel police. If tried and convicted, he could get up to 10 years in state prison.

Viscusi is accused of recruiting a 44-year-old Keyport man to carry out an attack on a third individual. After two attempts failed, police say, Viscusi enlisted the same accomplice to torch the intended victim's house.

Police haven't been able to find Viscusi since the complaint was lodged. They say he has ties throughout New Jersey, and also in Staten Island; Quakertown, Pennsylvania; Elizabeth City, North Carolina; Knoxville, Tennessee; Fort Worth and Seagoville, Texas; Coral Springs and Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Riverside, California.

Authorities urge anyone spotting Vescusi not to approach him directly, but to place a 911 call instead. He's described as white, with brown hair and brown eyes, about 5'11" and 170 to 180 pounds, with shoe size nine-and-a-half.

Please send questions or comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.

Late Stafford Mayor's Wife Settles Debt, Moves On

By Tom Mongelli

The baggage that the late Wesley Bell left after his untimely death in 2008 is gone. Now, says Ann Bell, his legacy in Stafford Township can be of value to future community leaders.

Bell, a Philadelphia native, was three when his family moved to Ship Bottom in 194. He became a Stafford elected official in 1969. He was mayor in 1983 when a young Carl Block led a recall effort and assumed the seat for the next 25 years. But the defeat didn't prevent him from remaining an influence in the township. In the ensuing years, he campaigned to represent the area as a state Senator, U.S. Senator and governor, while maintaining his outdoor advertising business.

The billboards in Ocean, Atlantic and Burlington Counties led to run-ins with the New Jersey Departments of Transportation, Environmental Protection and Taxation, leading to about $1.2 million in judgments and liens. Bell died in 2008 at age 71, a victim of injuries from a fall off one of the billboards his company owned.

Ann Bell says her settlement discussions with state officials over the past several months were cordial and amicable. She was struck, she says, by the impact her husband left in Trenton's corridors of power.

"Even though he was a thorn in their side many times," Ann says, "they had nothing but nice things to say about Wesley's intelligence, his dedication, and his belief in the legal system."

Proceeds from the sale of the company have satisfied the assessments, something

Ann calls a "tremendous relief."

"Now," she says, "I can distribute Wesley's ashes where they need to go, appropriately."

Where will that be. At this point, Ann hasn't decided. But she says that Wesley Bell was a lifelong advocate of the ocean and an avid sailor.

Bell is also credited as an inventor of salvage equipment for waterborne vessels beyond the depth of divers.

But Ann says that Bell's commitment to open government - itself the object of an 1988 New Jersey Supreme Court decision - is the lesson he leaves for municipal leaders yet to be elected. She says she took no comfort in the May defeat of Block - the man who unseated her husband - by new mayor John McMenamin. She considers that their approaches may differ, but they all have Stafford's best interests at heart.

"They need to be applauded for stepping up to the plate," Ann says. "How many of these complainers ever, ever get up off their fat butts and do something for the community?"

Oyster Creek Informational Night

by Jason Allentoff

It will most likely be a neighbor to all Ocean County residents for at least another 20 years. So why not learn all you can about it? Exelon will host a special information night about the Oyster Creek Nuclear Power Plant in Lacey Township on Thursday, June 18th.

The unique one-on-one forum is designed to educate, inform and update the plant's neighbors about what's going on at the facility. Spokesman Dave Benson says some of the topics include plant operations, used fuel storage and safety. In addition to the educational portion, the public will then have the floor to ask any questions they may have.

The Oyster Creek Education Center on Intake View Lane just off of Route 9 is the location. In runs 4 - 8 p.m.

Oyster Creek produces 636 net megawatts of electricity at full power, enough electricity to supply 600,000 typical homes, the equivalent to all homes in Monmouth and Ocean counties combined. In addition, plant workers, through their payrolls, are responsible for more $96 million injected directly into New Jersey's economy.