Asbury Park recently signed an agreement with the New Jersey Public Advocate to become a “Model Lead-Safe City”.
The city is going to designate a Lead-Safe City Coordinator who will head up all efforts related to responding to and preventing lead poisoning.
Asbury will also distribute lead poisoning educational materials through the schools, increase testing, prevention and relocation of families with lead-poisoned children.
Asbury Park is the ninth “Model Lead-Safe City’ in the state.
By: Janet Fried
Friday, May 29, 2009
Ship Bottom Police Search For Luring Suspect
Ship Bottom police continue to search for a suspect wanted in an attempted juvenile luring last month. The incident happened on April 27th at 9 p.m. in the area of Sixth Street and Drexel Avenue. The suspect tried to lure a young girl into a van. If you have any information, call Police Detective Michael Nash at 609-494-3055 extension 110.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
THE OUTLOOK IS BLEAK FOR THE SUMMER TOURISM SEASON AT THE JERSEY SHORE
Oliver Cook, Assistant Professor of Economics at Stockton College, says the unemployment rate and the housing market are not looking up.
He says many people are worried that they might loose their job so they are being more cautious with their discretionary spending.
Cook says the one positive thing shore businesses have going for them is that gas prices are cheaper this year as compared to last summer.
He says instead of competing against each other shore communities should try a regional marketing approach to try and bring in more tourism revenue.
By: Janet Fried
He says many people are worried that they might loose their job so they are being more cautious with their discretionary spending.
Cook says the one positive thing shore businesses have going for them is that gas prices are cheaper this year as compared to last summer.
He says instead of competing against each other shore communities should try a regional marketing approach to try and bring in more tourism revenue.
By: Janet Fried
Barnegat Police Search for Burglary Suspect
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Police in Barnegat need your help in catching a burglary suspect. Authorities say a man forcibly entered a home on Second Street back on May 11th. Once inside, the unidentified suspect was confronted by a resident. He fled the residence and left in a small, dark grey SUV. The resident described the man as white, late thirties to early forties, about 6 feet tall, approximately 250 pounds with ear length curly hair last seen wearing tan clothing. Anyone with information should call police at once at 609-698-5000.
Tough Questions Expected For the N.R.C. At Tonight's Safety Assement of Oyster Creek
By: Rosetta Key
Oyster Creek's re-licensing opponents will be calling the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's continued plant monitoring and license approval process into question during tonight's safety assessment in Tom's River. The group is taking the stance because they say problems continue to exist at the Lacey Township nuclear power plant. Eastern Environmental Law Center Legal Director Richard Webster says not only does he and the coalition he represents take issue with the recent discovery of a tritium-contaminated water leak, they recently sent a letter to N.R.C. officials to address concerns about metal fatigue when a crack was found on the reactor's recirculation nozzle.
"The idea was that all these problems would be solved before the license was granted. Instead of doing that, the N.R.C. basically left them for ongoing operations and we don't believe that that's appropriate."
Webster says for that reason, the coalition doesn't think the license was properly granted.
Meanwhile, the tritium contaminated water leak discovered in some of Oyster Creek's monitoring wells continues to draw the attention of Ocean County-based state lawmakers and now even State Environmental officials. 9th District Assemblyman Brian Rumpf questions the handling of the whole situation. He says, "We actually want to know why the leak wasn't actually discovered before it was detected in the monitoring wells? It frankly calls into the question the procedure which was used."
Rumpf says "D.E.P. Commissioner Mark Mauriello will continue its investigation into the tritium contamination. He says we believe it's very important because quite frankly we're not satified with the initial investigation outcome."
During a teleconference Tuesday, N.R.C officials promised to discuss all the issues that have occurred at the nation's oldest operating nuclear power plant in Ocean County today. The annual safety assessment is being held at the Toms River Holiday in on Route 37 east starting at 6 p.m.
Oyster Creek's re-licensing opponents will be calling the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's continued plant monitoring and license approval process into question during tonight's safety assessment in Tom's River. The group is taking the stance because they say problems continue to exist at the Lacey Township nuclear power plant. Eastern Environmental Law Center Legal Director Richard Webster says not only does he and the coalition he represents take issue with the recent discovery of a tritium-contaminated water leak, they recently sent a letter to N.R.C. officials to address concerns about metal fatigue when a crack was found on the reactor's recirculation nozzle.
"The idea was that all these problems would be solved before the license was granted. Instead of doing that, the N.R.C. basically left them for ongoing operations and we don't believe that that's appropriate."
Webster says for that reason, the coalition doesn't think the license was properly granted.
Meanwhile, the tritium contaminated water leak discovered in some of Oyster Creek's monitoring wells continues to draw the attention of Ocean County-based state lawmakers and now even State Environmental officials. 9th District Assemblyman Brian Rumpf questions the handling of the whole situation. He says, "We actually want to know why the leak wasn't actually discovered before it was detected in the monitoring wells? It frankly calls into the question the procedure which was used."
Rumpf says "D.E.P. Commissioner Mark Mauriello will continue its investigation into the tritium contamination. He says we believe it's very important because quite frankly we're not satified with the initial investigation outcome."
During a teleconference Tuesday, N.R.C officials promised to discuss all the issues that have occurred at the nation's oldest operating nuclear power plant in Ocean County today. The annual safety assessment is being held at the Toms River Holiday in on Route 37 east starting at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
A State Lawmaker Wants The State Department Of Health To Make Sure A Monmouth School Is Properly Disinfected To Prevent More Swine Flu Cases
Eight children at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School have tested positive for swine flu.
The building was closed last Friday and cleaned. But some parents and teachers said it was not properly cleaned so the school was closed again Wednesday.
“This is a particularly dangerous situation that must be addressed immediately to ensure that the school is completely sanitary,” said Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini.
The Monmouth County Health Department says there are 11 confirmed cases of swine flu in the county.
By: Janet Fried
The building was closed last Friday and cleaned. But some parents and teachers said it was not properly cleaned so the school was closed again Wednesday.
“This is a particularly dangerous situation that must be addressed immediately to ensure that the school is completely sanitary,” said Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini.
The Monmouth County Health Department says there are 11 confirmed cases of swine flu in the county.
By: Janet Fried
Nuclear Plant Emergency Prep Under Public Discussion
by Tom Mongelli
Proposed changes in emergency preparation procedures at functioning nuclear power plants - including Exelon's Oyster Creek generating station in Lacey Township - undergo public comment June 2 in King-Of-Prussia, Pennsylvania.
Federal Emergency Management Agency officials co-chair the session, which they say is the final step in changes that have been created with public participation over several years. It will be open to web conferencing and teleconferencing.
The NRC's proposal would limit tasks of on-site emergency responders employed by the companies operating the plants, and would create protection provisions for plant personnel during what they term a "hostile action" event - presumably an attack.
Nuclear plants would be required to include hostile-action precautions in their drills and exercises, and also create back-up alert systems.
To view related documents, log onto http://www.regulations.gov/ and view Docket Numbers NRC-2008-1022 and FEMA-2008-0022. This site also allows on-line public comment. Or, view the proposal in the Federal Register at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-1047.pdf.
Sessions at the Park Ridge Hotel and Conference Center begin at 2 and 7 pm. Get teleconferencing info at 800-368-5642 or e-mail Emergencypreparedness.resource@nrc.gov.
The agencies will take public comment through August 3. In addition to the site listed above, the NRC will take fax comments at 301-492-3466. E-mail comments can also be sent to www.nrc.govRulemaking.Comments@nrc.gov.
Please send comments/questions to wobmnews@wobm.com.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Medication Safety Push Starts In Ocean County
by Tom Mongelli
A Central Jersey-based non-profit group's bid for safer use of medcations among seniors begins Thursday morning in Brick. Healthcare Quality Systems, Inc. of East Brunswick is partnering with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services on the New Jersey Drug Safety Initative. Ut starts at 9:30 at the Shop-Rite on Route 70.
Their goal is to raise awareness of the risks of negative effects from multiple medications among seniors - especially if multiple symptoms have brought them into contact with an increasing number of doctors and pharmacists.
"The physicians may not be aware of all the medications the patient may, or may not, be on," says team leader Linda DeMarzo. The situation, she says, demands deeper understanding that can only happen with improved communication. For most patients, it starts with what they call a Personal Medication Record.
"It would document the medication's purposes," says Ms. DeMarzo, "how to use the medication, and other important information like allergies. And it's meant to be carried and presented at all points of care."
On-site consultants will help attendees develop PMRs, and also assess the safety factors in medical regimens that patients are following. Anyone wishing to undergo a "brown-bag" review should have a complete list of his or her current medications, as well as nutritional supplements, vitamins and minerals. They can learn whether any prescribed or over-the-counter remedies are counteracting each other, or creating health risks.
The initial event is aimed at, but by no means limited to, seniors in CMMS-designated density areas including Brick, Manasquan and Sea Girt. Registrations are being taken at 732-238-5570, but walk-ins will not be turned away.
Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.
The Recession Takes A Toll On Your Wallet And Your Health
by Jason Allentoff
The recession seems to be making Americans poorer and sicker. That's the result of a new study from the American Academy of Family Physicians. The findings show many aren't seeing their doctors because fewer want to spend money on the visits and some have lost their coverage when they were laid off from work.
Specifically, the study showed 90 percent of families nationwide have expressed concern about their ability to pay for services and more than 80 percent of doctors have seen an increase in patients with major stress symptoms since the economic crisis began.
Doctor Ted Epperly of the Academy says lack of options is also a factor. He says there are more specialists out there than general practitioners and internists and that needs to change.
Epperly feels health care needs to be reformed and every American citizen is entitled to have reliable coverage.
The recession seems to be making Americans poorer and sicker. That's the result of a new study from the American Academy of Family Physicians. The findings show many aren't seeing their doctors because fewer want to spend money on the visits and some have lost their coverage when they were laid off from work.
Specifically, the study showed 90 percent of families nationwide have expressed concern about their ability to pay for services and more than 80 percent of doctors have seen an increase in patients with major stress symptoms since the economic crisis began.
Doctor Ted Epperly of the Academy says lack of options is also a factor. He says there are more specialists out there than general practitioners and internists and that needs to change.
Epperly feels health care needs to be reformed and every American citizen is entitled to have reliable coverage.
Monday, May 25, 2009
A Jersey Congressman Is Calling For An Expired Offshore Drilling Moratorium In The Mid-Atlantic To Be Reinstated
Before leaving office President Bush lifted the offshore drilling ban. But The Obama Administration is not allowing drilling until a six month study of the issue is complete.
Congressman Frank Pallone says there are a lot of leases in The Gulf of Mexico and other places where drilling has been allowed for years and the number of drills that have taken place in the past year are down because of the recession.
"So there's absolutely no reason to be looking offshore and the danger to the tourism economy would be terrible," says Pallone.
He is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit drilling off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
By: Janet Fried
Congressman Frank Pallone says there are a lot of leases in The Gulf of Mexico and other places where drilling has been allowed for years and the number of drills that have taken place in the past year are down because of the recession.
"So there's absolutely no reason to be looking offshore and the danger to the tourism economy would be terrible," says Pallone.
He is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit drilling off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.
By: Janet Fried
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Two Boats Collide on Manasquan River; 1 teen dead, 4 injured
By: Stacy Proebstle
excerpts from AP(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
New Jersey State Police said one person was killed and four other teens critically injured when two boats collided in the Manasquan River Friday night. Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris McLaughlin said the 15 and 25 foot boats were traveling in opposite directions when the operator of the smaller vessel lost control, causing the collision.
Witnesses say the smaller boat's five occupants appeared to be teens between the ages of 13 and 16.
Two of the injured teens were flown by medivac helicopter to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune; the other two were taken there by ambulance. The two men aboard the larger boat were not hurt. At this time, no one has been identified.
Authorities say it's unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.
excerpts from AP(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
New Jersey State Police said one person was killed and four other teens critically injured when two boats collided in the Manasquan River Friday night. Coast Guard Petty Officer Chris McLaughlin said the 15 and 25 foot boats were traveling in opposite directions when the operator of the smaller vessel lost control, causing the collision.
Witnesses say the smaller boat's five occupants appeared to be teens between the ages of 13 and 16.
Two of the injured teens were flown by medivac helicopter to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune; the other two were taken there by ambulance. The two men aboard the larger boat were not hurt. At this time, no one has been identified.
Authorities say it's unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
State Resolution Demands Justice for Murdered Trooper
by Tom Mongelli
Inklings that the Obama Administration would seek paths to normalized relations with Cuba spurs a shore State Senator to demand that a stiff condition be imposed.
Senator Sean Kean (R-11) today introduced his resolution calling for the extradition of fugitive Joanne Chesimard from Cuba as a requirement of improved relations.
Chesimard has been on the run since 1979, following her escape from prison where she had been serving 25 to life for the 1973 murder of New Jersey State Trooper Philip Lamonico.
"She's in Cuba, living on a government stipend," Kean fumes, "living in comfortable surroundings." But he says that doesn't mean she's carefree.
"Every time, I'm told, that we turn up the heat here in New Jersey and talk about her, she has to shrink and become less visible."
WOBM first aired information about the issue several weeks before today's introduction, when statements by Raul Castro were interpreted at the White House as a potential olive branch. Kean told us then that police he encountered were livid, and says now that his resolution has received support from law enforcement nationwide.
Kean also notes that the 37 years since the shooting has served to soften Chesimard's image among those too young or not in New Jersey at the time, especially in cyberspace. He's quick to discredit revisionism.
"She had every day in court that any defendant could ever possibly ask for. She lost every appeal," says Kean. "She escaped by using a hostage. This is a dangerous, evil woman who committed the most horrific crime."
Lamonico's widow, and other members of local and state law enforcement, surrounded Kean as he introduced his bill on the Statehouse steps.
Please send questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.
Dragnet Out for Red Bank Robbery Suspects
by Tom Mongelli
Red Bank Police seek your help in tracking down a pair of suspects in a Wednesday gunpoint street robbery.
Captain Stephen McCarthy says the 21- and 17-year-old victims, both Red Bank residents, reported being approached from behind and held up on Shrewsbury Avenue, at around 12:21 am. They told police that both suspects pressed weapons into their backs, taking cash and a cell phone.
The victims described black males. One is believed to be 20 to 22 years old, about 5'6", thin, with a dark complexion, a beard on the chin line and a corn-row hair style. He wore a red and black ball cap, black shirt, light blue jeans and white tennis sneakers.
The second suspect is believed to be about 19 years of age, six feet in height, thin, with a medium complexion, wearing a small thin beard, close-cropped hair and a black tee-shirt.
Victims told investigators that the pair climbed into a cream-colored four-door sedan that was last seen heading south on Shrewsbury Avenue.
Anyone with information that can help the probe should call Detective Robert Clayton or Investigator Juan Sardo. Reach the Detective Division at 732-530-2719. The Red Bank PD confidential tip line is 732-450-9704.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
AMBER ALERT CANCELLED
The AMBER ALERT has been canceled.
THE CHILD, ALTEREEK DUNN HAS BEEN RECOVERED!!
THE CHILD, ALTEREEK DUNN HAS BEEN RECOVERED!!
STATE POLICE AMBER ALERT
The New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit, has activated an AMBER ALERT on Wednesday, May 20th.
The suspect, Altereek Dunn (DOB: 01/17/1976) SBI: NJ14922C took his son, Altereek Dunn, Jr. (Age2) DOB: 09/13/2007.
The suspect is driving a 2009 Audi Dark Colored (possibly black or metallic) vehicle with temporary NJ registration in back window.
Any further information, please call 9-1-1.
According to EAS Altereek Dunn, Jr. was reported removed from a daycare center in Maplewood at approx 5:40 p.m.
Updated Information:
last name: Pridgen
first Name: Alquan
alias: Multiple - Altereek Dunn
Age: 33 years old
Gender: Male
Height: 5"8
weight: 170 pounds
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black
Complexion: Dark
Race: Black
Date of birth: 01/17/1976 - Multiple
Date of last contact: May 20, 2009
Scars, Marks, tattoos: Unknown
The suspect, Altereek Dunn (DOB: 01/17/1976) SBI: NJ14922C took his son, Altereek Dunn, Jr. (Age2) DOB: 09/13/2007.
The suspect is driving a 2009 Audi Dark Colored (possibly black or metallic) vehicle with temporary NJ registration in back window.
Any further information, please call 9-1-1.
According to EAS Altereek Dunn, Jr. was reported removed from a daycare center in Maplewood at approx 5:40 p.m.
Updated Information:
last name: Pridgen
first Name: Alquan
alias: Multiple - Altereek Dunn
Age: 33 years old
Gender: Male
Height: 5"8
weight: 170 pounds
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black
Complexion: Dark
Race: Black
Date of birth: 01/17/1976 - Multiple
Date of last contact: May 20, 2009
Scars, Marks, tattoos: Unknown
ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS URGE THE STATE TO USE ECOSYSTEM BASED MANAGEMENT
Several environmental groups released a report Wednesday documenting significant water quality problems in New Jersey's marine environment.
"With beach season upon us, it is important to recognize that all is not well at the Jersey shore," said Benson Chiles of the Coastal Ocean Coalition. "Most of our beaches are safe for swimming, but that's not the whole story. Frequent brown tides, bays overrun by jellyfish, and growing dead zones are classic signs, known as biological indicators, that the ocean ecosystem is not healthy. It is time for New Jersey to acknowledge and respond to these indicators through better management practices."
The group wants the state to adopt an ecosystem approach to managing coastal and ocean resources, to monitor and manage coastal waters using biological indicators, to place limits on non-point source pollution, and to control development in watersheds.
By: Janet Fried
"With beach season upon us, it is important to recognize that all is not well at the Jersey shore," said Benson Chiles of the Coastal Ocean Coalition. "Most of our beaches are safe for swimming, but that's not the whole story. Frequent brown tides, bays overrun by jellyfish, and growing dead zones are classic signs, known as biological indicators, that the ocean ecosystem is not healthy. It is time for New Jersey to acknowledge and respond to these indicators through better management practices."
The group wants the state to adopt an ecosystem approach to managing coastal and ocean resources, to monitor and manage coastal waters using biological indicators, to place limits on non-point source pollution, and to control development in watersheds.
By: Janet Fried
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
A Cape May County Resort Tops This Year's List Of The Top Ten Beaches In New Jersey
Ocean City was voted best beach overall, best beach for day trips and best beach for ecotourism.
“We’re not surprised, all of our beaches are great, Ocean City has done a lot of work to enhance their beaches and to make sure their boardwalk is number one,” says Diane Wieland, Director of Tourism for Cape May County.
The New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium/New Jersey Sea Grant announced the results of its survey Tuesday.
Long Beach Island, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest, Asbury Park, North Wildwood, Cape May, Seaside Heights, Sea Isle City and Avalon also made the top ten list.
By: Janet Fried
Monday, May 18, 2009
WE'LL FIND OUT THE CONDITION OF NEW JERSEY'S BEACHES TODAY
The New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium/New Jersey Sea Grant is releasing its seventh annual State of the Shore report during a press conference at Sandy Hook today.
“We try to emphasis not only the condition of the beaches at the Jersey Shore but the importance of sustaining those resources and taking good care of them so they can sustain the economy too now which is very important,” says Kim Kosko, Director of Communications for the New Jersey Marine Sciences Consortium/New Jersey Sea Grant
The winner of the top ten beaches survey will also be announced.
By: Janet Fried
Splendor In The Grass
By Tom Mongelli
Jackson Township - As officials in Ocean County's last commumity to collect yard clippings from homeowners prepare to discontinue the program, they offer an alternative and ramp up re-orientation for a less costly, more environmentally-friendly solution.
The collection service became a point of contention for Township Council President Michael Kafton, who characterized the discontinuation as an affront for homeowners who have used it for years. But Mayor Mike Reina points out that Jackson is the lone holdout town still providing the service, and the expense is turning astronomical - which he sees as a worse alternative for taxpayers.
"The costs of organic dumping fees have [risen]from $60,000 in 2006 to $201,000 in 2008," Reina says. But the program continues through year's end, in an abridged form.
The township composting site no longer accepts grass clippings. But the yard waste facility on Kierych Drive does. Reina has contracted a private firm to collect them in 30-yard dumpsters and truck them to Pennsylvania. The cost is being covered by a grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection, based on the township's recycling tonnage.
"Each homeowner will have to just present some type of ID stating they're Jackson residents," says the mayor. "And once a week they'll be able to dump either three 30-gallon containers or three 30-gallon trash bags of freshly-cut grass."
The Jackson web site and the Township Council meeting room are filled with information about ways to reuse clippings to nourish gardens instead of tossing them out.
Homeowners unwilling to adapt still have other alternatives. The Ocean County Landfill in Manchester will accept yard debris at a fee of five dollars.
Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.
Friday, May 15, 2009
IRS Is Hiring Revenue Agents Nationwide
By: Rosetta Key
U.S. job figures are expected to improve in at least one industry sector...The Federal Government.
The Internal Revenue Service has started a major hiring effort to fill hundreds of entry level Revenue Agent positions. Spokesman Gregg Semanick says applicants need to have at least 30 hours of college-level accounting coursework under their belts.
He says you must also undergo a background check and be a U.S. citizen.
Semanick says, "based on their budget, they are in a position where they can now hire not only in the Freehold New Jersey area but Nationwide."
He says they're also hiring for other critical jobs nationwide.
Semanick says to apply for IRS vacancies, qualified candidates should visit www.usajobs.gov, the federal government-wide job posting site. He says you can also get more information about the nature of IRS jobs and about working ofr the IRS at www.jobs.irs.gov.
U.S. job figures are expected to improve in at least one industry sector...The Federal Government.
The Internal Revenue Service has started a major hiring effort to fill hundreds of entry level Revenue Agent positions. Spokesman Gregg Semanick says applicants need to have at least 30 hours of college-level accounting coursework under their belts.
He says you must also undergo a background check and be a U.S. citizen.
Semanick says, "based on their budget, they are in a position where they can now hire not only in the Freehold New Jersey area but Nationwide."
He says they're also hiring for other critical jobs nationwide.
Semanick says to apply for IRS vacancies, qualified candidates should visit www.usajobs.gov, the federal government-wide job posting site. He says you can also get more information about the nature of IRS jobs and about working ofr the IRS at www.jobs.irs.gov.
Clean Ocean Action Graduates Its Latest Class Of Student Ocean Advocates
A ceremony will be held Monday night at Monmouth University for the latest class of Clean Ocean Action Student Ocean Advocates.
The six students were selected from local high schools to participate in the program because of their love of the environment.
The teens were educated about current environmental threats to the ocean, asked to chose a compelling issue and implement a campaign.
This class chose the threat of Liquefied Natural Gas facilities and created public service announcements.
“After working with all these students, I’m really confident that they are going to be the next generation to make waves for our environment,” says Tavia Danch, Clean Ocean Action Pollution Prevention Coordinator.
Former Greenpeace USA Executive Director John Passacantando will give the keynote address at the graduation ceremony at 7 pm at Monmouth University in the Club Dining Room at Magill Commons.
By: Janet Fried
Bad News For Atlantic City, Delaware Has Legalized Sports Betting
The Governor of Delaware signed a bill into law Thursday legalizing sports betting and table games at the racetrack casinos which are currently limited to slot machines.
“Sports betting will definitely be a problem for Atlantic City, especially on the weekends in the football season,” says Roger Gros with The Global Gaming Business Magazine.
Gros says Atlantic City has to start promoting the things its has such as a beach, shopping, hotels, entertainment and restaurants, that the other casinos in the northeast region don't have.
“Its unfair that Delaware can have this revenue source and tourist attraction but New Jersey can't,” says State Senator Raymond Lesniak.
Lesniak has filed a federal lawsuit to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992.
Lesniak says he hopes the lawsuit is resolved quickly so sports betting can go on the ballot in November as required by the state constitution.
By: Janet Fried
“Sports betting will definitely be a problem for Atlantic City, especially on the weekends in the football season,” says Roger Gros with The Global Gaming Business Magazine.
Gros says Atlantic City has to start promoting the things its has such as a beach, shopping, hotels, entertainment and restaurants, that the other casinos in the northeast region don't have.
“Its unfair that Delaware can have this revenue source and tourist attraction but New Jersey can't,” says State Senator Raymond Lesniak.
Lesniak has filed a federal lawsuit to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992.
Lesniak says he hopes the lawsuit is resolved quickly so sports betting can go on the ballot in November as required by the state constitution.
By: Janet Fried
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Ocean County police officers killed in the line of duty are recognized at the annual Law Enforcement Memorial Day Service
By: Stacy Proebstle
Ocean County will remember its fallen police officers during the annual Law Enforcement Day Memorial Service Friday at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean County Police Academy on Route 88.
Lacey Township Police Chief William Nally, who serves as President of the Ocean County Chiefs of Police Assocation, says there are 10 names ethced into the police memorial at Ocean County Park.
Last year, Lakewood Police Officer William Preslar Jr. who died in the line of duty on May 14th, 2007, was added to the memorial, in addition to the names of three State Troopers who died in the 1920s and 30s. Preslar's death marked the first time in six years an officer died in the line of duty in Ocean County.
The keynote speaker for the May 15th event will be U.S. Marshal James T. Plousis. The cadets from the Ocean County Police Academy will participate along with members of the County Sheriff's Department, the New Jersey State Police, and representatives of law enforcement agencies throughout the County.
Ocean County will remember its fallen police officers during the annual Law Enforcement Day Memorial Service Friday at 10:30 a.m. at the Ocean County Police Academy on Route 88.
Lacey Township Police Chief William Nally, who serves as President of the Ocean County Chiefs of Police Assocation, says there are 10 names ethced into the police memorial at Ocean County Park.
Last year, Lakewood Police Officer William Preslar Jr. who died in the line of duty on May 14th, 2007, was added to the memorial, in addition to the names of three State Troopers who died in the 1920s and 30s. Preslar's death marked the first time in six years an officer died in the line of duty in Ocean County.
The keynote speaker for the May 15th event will be U.S. Marshal James T. Plousis. The cadets from the Ocean County Police Academy will participate along with members of the County Sheriff's Department, the New Jersey State Police, and representatives of law enforcement agencies throughout the County.
Bird-Beater Arrested on Burglary Charge
By Tom Mongelli
One of three men who admitted beating rare birds to death at Popcorn Park Zoo in Lacey is under arrest again, charged with an April 30 home burglary in Berkeley Township. Twenty-four-year-old Matthew Ronneberg was apprehended without incident Thursday near noon time at a business in his hometown.
Berkeley Police Sergeant James Smith says that Ronneberg was the subject of a $75,000warrant the day of the incident. Authorities believe he acted alone.
"He was scared out of the house by a homeowner when she returned home," says Smith. "He left some personal items at the scene." The woman told police she was missing several items including a jar of change and a camera.
Ronneberg was placed in Ocean County Jail in default of $75,000 bail. He was indicted last month on a drug charge filed in Stafford. He completed his sentence for the 2003 bird killings in early 2008.
WOBM's Open Forum Program Recap
Last night, News Director and Anchor Tom Mongelli hosted WOBM's Open Forum program on 1160 WOBM-AM from 6 to 7 p.m. This month, we turn the spotlight on an eight year old Toms River resident who became an instant hero when she saved her mom's life during a diabetic attack. Cedar Grove Elementary School student Kyra Lewkowicz spoke to us about the incident that got her recognized by the Ocean County Freeholders.
Also on the program, Leslie Terjesen of the Ocean County Health Department discussed a wide array of topics ranging from Swine Flu, the recent Hepatitis-B scare in Toms River and how to prevent yourself from deer ticks while out in the nice weather.
Also on the program, Leslie Terjesen of the Ocean County Health Department discussed a wide array of topics ranging from Swine Flu, the recent Hepatitis-B scare in Toms River and how to prevent yourself from deer ticks while out in the nice weather.
Health Care Bill From 3rd District Congressman John Adler
by Jason Allentoff
With the cost of health care continuing to rise and the unemployment rate in New Jersey and across the nation ballooning to all time highs, a third district state lawmaker wants to see more affordable plans in place sooner rather than later.
Congressman John Adler is sponsoring legislation that will lower health care costs for Garden State residents, families and small business owners. This goes for the people who are employed by a small business proprietor as well as those who are self-employed. As member of the House Financial Services Committee, Congressman Adler says the need for the program is real and has personal roots for him. He says "I remember my dad's dry cleaning store - he couldn't afford health insurance. That was a problem thirty years ago and its so much of a bigger problem now so something needs to be done, especially how the rates increased so much in the last decade."
The bi-partisan legislation known as The Small Business Health Options Program, or SHOP Act, would make health insurance more affordable, predictable and accessible. Congressman Adler says we are a small business economy and need to value "the health of the working and middle class." The program would provide tax incentives to encourage states to reform poorly functioning small group insurance markets and would encourage a state purchasing pool. Adler adds everyone should be covered by affordable health care and it's something "we are all entitled to."
From 2000 to 2007, health insurance premiums in New Jersey increased by 71 percent while median yearly wages increased only 15 percent. Small businesses are in a crisis today when it comes to finding affordable health insurance. While 16 percent of Americans are uninsured, 28.7 percent of individuals working for small businesses are without coverage. In addition, SHOP would give the state insurance commissioners the opportunity to carry out traditional duties, such as responding to consumer complaints and enforcing compliance with rating rules, and benefit requirements would follow state laws.
With the cost of health care continuing to rise and the unemployment rate in New Jersey and across the nation ballooning to all time highs, a third district state lawmaker wants to see more affordable plans in place sooner rather than later.Congressman John Adler is sponsoring legislation that will lower health care costs for Garden State residents, families and small business owners. This goes for the people who are employed by a small business proprietor as well as those who are self-employed. As member of the House Financial Services Committee, Congressman Adler says the need for the program is real and has personal roots for him. He says "I remember my dad's dry cleaning store - he couldn't afford health insurance. That was a problem thirty years ago and its so much of a bigger problem now so something needs to be done, especially how the rates increased so much in the last decade."
The bi-partisan legislation known as The Small Business Health Options Program, or SHOP Act, would make health insurance more affordable, predictable and accessible. Congressman Adler says we are a small business economy and need to value "the health of the working and middle class." The program would provide tax incentives to encourage states to reform poorly functioning small group insurance markets and would encourage a state purchasing pool. Adler adds everyone should be covered by affordable health care and it's something "we are all entitled to."
From 2000 to 2007, health insurance premiums in New Jersey increased by 71 percent while median yearly wages increased only 15 percent. Small businesses are in a crisis today when it comes to finding affordable health insurance. While 16 percent of Americans are uninsured, 28.7 percent of individuals working for small businesses are without coverage. In addition, SHOP would give the state insurance commissioners the opportunity to carry out traditional duties, such as responding to consumer complaints and enforcing compliance with rating rules, and benefit requirements would follow state laws.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Improvements Are Planned To Stop Run Off From Monmouth Park From Contaminating Branchport Creek
The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority in conjunction with the State Department of Environmental Protection has come up with a $20 million long term plan to improve the water quality of the creek.
Gutters have already been installed on the barns at Monmouth Park so rainfall is captured without allowing it to come into contact with animal waste on the ground.
The future upgrades include a retention basin and a pumping station that will allow Monmouth Park to control the flow rate to the Two Rivers Water Reclamation Authority.
The four year plan is expected to be complete by 2013.
“This is really good news for the people of Monmouth County and Oceanport that this is moving forward,” said John Samerjan, Vice President of Public Affairs, for the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority.
Since 2006 health officials have posted signs along the creek warning people to avoid contact with the water because of high levels of fecal bacteria.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued two fines to the NJSEA totaling $175,000.
By: Janet Fried
Fire Demonstration And Why Sprinklers Are Necessary
by Jason Allentoff
Sometimes common sense becomes the main focal point of a news story. It can be something simple like "buckle up for safety" or "don't drink and drive" - yet we all sometimes need a little reminder. Maybe if there were more risk factors shown or demonstrated and we saved the statistical figures for text books, we would see less incidents out there.
By the year 2012, all new residential construction in the Garden State will be required to include fire sprinkler systems. A demonstration was held Tuesday to show what the sprinklers can do. The event took place outside the Toms River Fire Academy on Church Road. About a hundred people including fire officials and local residents came out to see what was up.
Two virtually identical mock bedrooms were set up. A bed, television, dresser and some window drapes were featured. One room had fire sprinklers installed - the other didn't. A staffer set both ablaze as members of the Toms River Fire Academy stood by with hoses in case the flames got out of hand.
Within three minutes time, the room without the sprinklers was totally engulfed in flames. By six minutes, the flames had to be put out by the fire fighters standing by leaving behind a charred blackened mess. The fire in the room had left it uninhabitable.
However, the room with the sprinklers was saved with only minor damage that can be salvaged.
Toms River Fire Chief John Lightbody says during a fire, time is of the essence and having sprinklers installed is like "having your own personal fire fighter on hand 24hours a day, 7 days a week. You need this kind of equipment in your home. Also, smoke detectors. Smoke detectors and fire sprinklers are like hot dogs and mustard. They go together and will save lives."
Bob Yaiser is the Public Education Officer for the Toms River Fire Academy. He says its common sense that time is a vital component and having sprinklers is "a very good idea and it is well worth the cost."
Dan Detrolio is with the State Fire Safety Commission. He says "we won't stop till sprinklers are made mandatory. It's an added tool at saving lives and homes and you can't put a price tag on that. Besides, it's not expensive when we're gonna save lives!" He says more than 4-thousand people perish in fires nationwide each year and sprinklers will "cut that number down significantly."
Sometimes common sense becomes the main focal point of a news story. It can be something simple like "buckle up for safety" or "don't drink and drive" - yet we all sometimes need a little reminder. Maybe if there were more risk factors shown or demonstrated and we saved the statistical figures for text books, we would see less incidents out there.
By the year 2012, all new residential construction in the Garden State will be required to include fire sprinkler systems. A demonstration was held Tuesday to show what the sprinklers can do. The event took place outside the Toms River Fire Academy on Church Road. About a hundred people including fire officials and local residents came out to see what was up.
Two virtually identical mock bedrooms were set up. A bed, television, dresser and some window drapes were featured. One room had fire sprinklers installed - the other didn't. A staffer set both ablaze as members of the Toms River Fire Academy stood by with hoses in case the flames got out of hand.Within three minutes time, the room without the sprinklers was totally engulfed in flames. By six minutes, the flames had to be put out by the fire fighters standing by leaving behind a charred blackened mess. The fire in the room had left it uninhabitable.
However, the room with the sprinklers was saved with only minor damage that can be salvaged.
Toms River Fire Chief John Lightbody says during a fire, time is of the essence and having sprinklers installed is like "having your own personal fire fighter on hand 24hours a day, 7 days a week. You need this kind of equipment in your home. Also, smoke detectors. Smoke detectors and fire sprinklers are like hot dogs and mustard. They go together and will save lives."
Bob Yaiser is the Public Education Officer for the Toms River Fire Academy. He says its common sense that time is a vital component and having sprinklers is "a very good idea and it is well worth the cost."
Dan Detrolio is with the State Fire Safety Commission. He says "we won't stop till sprinklers are made mandatory. It's an added tool at saving lives and homes and you can't put a price tag on that. Besides, it's not expensive when we're gonna save lives!" He says more than 4-thousand people perish in fires nationwide each year and sprinklers will "cut that number down significantly."
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Monmouth County Board Of Recreation Commissioners Is Considering A Proposal For An Employee-Only Deer Hunt At Tatum Park
The Board of Recreation Commissioners first authorized the opening of county parklands for the hunting of white- tailed deer in April 2004.
The employee-only deer hunt for Tatum park in Middletown would be held in addition to the normal hunting season and would allow workers who are licensed hunters to safely reduce the deer population.
“I’m not sure its going to fly because the round the table conversations that I’ve picked up from the commissioners, I’m not so sure that they are in favor of this,” Said Frederick Kniesler, Vice Chairman of the Monmouth County Board of Recreation Commissioners.
The anti-hunting community is against it and hunting advocates want the special culling session open to all county residents.
The Commissioners are likely to take action on the proposal June 8Th.
By: Janet Fried
Police Officers From Across the State Kick Off '101 Safe Days Of Summer' in Seaside Heights
Over 100 police officers from across New Jersey join state, county, and local officials in Seaside Heights to kick off the '101 Safe Days of Summer' initiative.
The program, which runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, focuses on driver inattention, drowsy and distracted driving, drunk drivers, and pedestrian safety.
State Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Sharon Harrington says New Jersey has 5.5 million licensed drivers, that along with out of state visitors, create lots of traffic heading to the Jersey Shore.
Harrington says they are getting the message out statewide with their 'Click It or Ticket' campaign through the use of billboards, posters, and even movie advertisements.
Last year, police in New Jersey issued 46,206 summonses for failure to wear a seat belt and over 6,000 for speeding.
Law enforcement officials in Ocean and Monmouth Counties begin the 'Click It or Ticket' seat belt enforcement on May 18th.
The program, which runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, focuses on driver inattention, drowsy and distracted driving, drunk drivers, and pedestrian safety.
State Motor Vehicle Commission Chief Administrator Sharon Harrington says New Jersey has 5.5 million licensed drivers, that along with out of state visitors, create lots of traffic heading to the Jersey Shore.
Harrington says they are getting the message out statewide with their 'Click It or Ticket' campaign through the use of billboards, posters, and even movie advertisements.
Last year, police in New Jersey issued 46,206 summonses for failure to wear a seat belt and over 6,000 for speeding.
Law enforcement officials in Ocean and Monmouth Counties begin the 'Click It or Ticket' seat belt enforcement on May 18th.
Sprinkler Demonstration
by Jason Allentoff
I attended the public demonstration of the benefits of having residential sprinkler protection today in Toms River. Here is a photograph to wet your appetites. Listen to WOBM News tomorrow for a full report and read the full blog tomorrow morning!
I attended the public demonstration of the benefits of having residential sprinkler protection today in Toms River. Here is a photograph to wet your appetites. Listen to WOBM News tomorrow for a full report and read the full blog tomorrow morning!
Monday, May 11, 2009
MAY IS STROKE AWARENESS MONTH
By: Rosetta Key
If someone is having a stroke around you would you recognize the signs? The Ocean County Health Department is hoping to teach residents how to detect stroke symptoms early to help speed up medical attention and to help prevent the chances for irreversible damage.
Health Department spokeswoman Leslie Terjesen says a good way to identify the signs of a stroke is by using the F-A-S-T method detection.
According to the Health Department press release, "To do this; observe the person for the following and ask these questions:
F - FACE - Ask the person to smile. Is there some dropping on one side of the face?
A - ARM - Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drop down?
S - SPEECH - Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does his or her speech sound slurred or strange?
T - TIME - If you observe any of these symptoms, it's TIME to call 9-1-1.
"Also, for more information on stroke prevention, contact the National Stroke Association at 1-800-STROKES go to their web site at http://www.stroke.org/"
Terjesen says the Health Department is commemorating Stroke Awareness Month by offering the services of the Mobile Stroke Risk Assessment Program (MSRAP). Residents can participate in the free screening program this Friday May 15th and Monday May 18th at the Toms River Office.
Shes says MSRAP program consist of a Blood Pressure Measurement, Pulse Check, Carotid Bruits and a Personal/Family Medical History. Terjesen says, "they actually go over all the stroke risk factors with the people and they give recommendations and an action plan for them." However, Terjesen is quick to advise anyone taking the assessment to share the results with their primary care physician.
The MSRAP is free but appointments are necessary. For more information call 732-341-9700 ext. 7604.
Leslie Terjesen will be one of the guest on WOBM's Open Forum Program airing this Wednesday night at 6 o' clock on 1160 a.m.
If someone is having a stroke around you would you recognize the signs? The Ocean County Health Department is hoping to teach residents how to detect stroke symptoms early to help speed up medical attention and to help prevent the chances for irreversible damage.
Health Department spokeswoman Leslie Terjesen says a good way to identify the signs of a stroke is by using the F-A-S-T method detection.
According to the Health Department press release, "To do this; observe the person for the following and ask these questions:
F - FACE - Ask the person to smile. Is there some dropping on one side of the face?
A - ARM - Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drop down?
S - SPEECH - Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does his or her speech sound slurred or strange?
T - TIME - If you observe any of these symptoms, it's TIME to call 9-1-1.
"Also, for more information on stroke prevention, contact the National Stroke Association at 1-800-STROKES go to their web site at http://www.stroke.org/"
Terjesen says the Health Department is commemorating Stroke Awareness Month by offering the services of the Mobile Stroke Risk Assessment Program (MSRAP). Residents can participate in the free screening program this Friday May 15th and Monday May 18th at the Toms River Office.
Shes says MSRAP program consist of a Blood Pressure Measurement, Pulse Check, Carotid Bruits and a Personal/Family Medical History. Terjesen says, "they actually go over all the stroke risk factors with the people and they give recommendations and an action plan for them." However, Terjesen is quick to advise anyone taking the assessment to share the results with their primary care physician.
The MSRAP is free but appointments are necessary. For more information call 732-341-9700 ext. 7604.
Leslie Terjesen will be one of the guest on WOBM's Open Forum Program airing this Wednesday night at 6 o' clock on 1160 a.m.
The Monmouth County Planning Board Is Holding An Information Session Tomorrow On Its Panhandle Region Plan
The panhandle includes Allentown, Roosevelt, Millstone and Upper Freehold.
The panhandle region consists of 20 percent of the county's land area and is bounded by Burlington, Middlesex, Mercer and Ocean Counties.
The public information session is Wednesday at 6:30 pm at the Millstone Community Center on Stagecoach Road.
“The goal of the Panhandle Region Plan is to help communities prepare, both collectively and individually for sustainable growth while preserving their environmental resources and farmlands and maintaining their unique history and local character,” said Monmouth County Freeholder Deputy Director John D’Amico.
The target date for completion of the plan is July.
By: Janet Fried
The panhandle region consists of 20 percent of the county's land area and is bounded by Burlington, Middlesex, Mercer and Ocean Counties.
The public information session is Wednesday at 6:30 pm at the Millstone Community Center on Stagecoach Road.
“The goal of the Panhandle Region Plan is to help communities prepare, both collectively and individually for sustainable growth while preserving their environmental resources and farmlands and maintaining their unique history and local character,” said Monmouth County Freeholder Deputy Director John D’Amico.
The target date for completion of the plan is July.
By: Janet Fried
New Owners, Same Problems at Toms River Superfund Site
by Tom Mongelli
After a prolonged process, the company responsible for leaving tens of thousands of chemical-laden drums undground on its Toms River property decades ago is absorbed into an even larger firm. But it doesn't change the battle local officials are waging to clear the Superfund site.
German-based conglomerate BASF completed its acquisition of Switzerland-based Ciba in April, a move that company officials say will strengthen their operations in the Northeastern United States. The world's largest chemical company also inherits the court action Toms River launched to force the removal of almost 40-thousand chemical-filled drums from an underground storage cell.
Toms River Council President Greg McGuckin says that the current township administration wasted no time establishing contact with the new regime. "Mayor (Thomas) Kelaher and the township's staff are reaching out to BASF to discuss the future of the property," McGuckin says.
Ciba manufactured dye on the site for nearly four decades until 1990. Waste chemicals were stored in drums and pumped directly into the Atlantic Ocean. New Jersey environmental officials ordered Ciba to start removing drums and remediating soil in 1980. The tract was placed on the EPA's Superfund list three years later. The Ciba site, along with an illegal dumping of Union Carbide chemicals at the Reich Farm site and the subsequent closure of nearby drinking water wells, led to a study of cancer rates and the formation of the Citizens Action Committee on Childhood Cancer Cluster, which conducts quarterly reviews of progress on all fronts to this day.
The company paid more than $19 million to remove about 38,000 drums from one of two underground storage cells. Company reps claim that an almost-identical number are secure in a similar cell that's lined against leakage. Township officials conducted tests and concluded that it does leak, and poses a renewed environmental and health threat.
McGuckin says that no action could proceed until the acquisiton was completed. "Now that they do own it," he says, "the time has come to see where we're going to go from here. And they've indicated that they would like to sit down and discuss it."
Please address questions/comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.
Financial Pro Draws Map through Economic Woods
by Tom Mongelli
She ran for Ocean County office on a platform of fiscal responsibility. Now Long Beach Island finanicial consultant Tamar Sherer brings the same principles to shore small business owners. The former J.P. Morgan-Chase vice president says she'll explain the realities of economic recovery during her June 16th seminar at the Holiday Inn of Manahawkin.
Sherer says a comment by General Electric CEO Jeff Immelt was an epiphany for her. "He said, 'This is not a cycle, it's a reset.' I think what he means is that when we do recover, we're just going to be on a fundamentally different plateau in our economy."
Sherer says that the hardest adjustment for small business operators is in changing consumer spending habits. Staggering credit-card and mortgage debt, she says, signals the end of flagrant discretionary spending. Responsible home budgets will have tighter purse strings, with savings having a larger role than in the past.
"It means we're going to be investing in ourselves...but in the short term, it means consumers will be spending less. The binge is over."
Registration is ongoing. Signup rates rise after May 15th. Visit http://www.shererstrategies.com/.
How is your business faring until conditions change? Let us know at wobmnews@wobm.com.
Veterans May Get New Housing Options Thanks To Lawmakers
by Jason Allentoff
Its not always easy for veterans to find affordable places to live - either rentals or sales. There may soon be some new options for the brave men and women who protect our freedom who are looking for housing thanks to a measure introduced in the Senate by 9th District Lawmakers.
The Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee has favorably released legislation S-2182 introduced by Senator Chris Connors and Assemblymen Brian Rumpf and Dan Van Pelt that would require a portion of tenant-based assistance vouchers under the State Rental Assistance Program be reserved for grants to veterans.
Senator Connors says “Dedicating a portion of vouchers provided under the State Rental Assistance Program exclusively for veterans would be an effective means of fulfilling the obligation of government to provide housing assistance to those who have served our country in the Armed Forces and are struggling financially and in sponsoring this legislation, our Delegation felt that utilizing an existing program would allow for the state to provide this form of assistance to our veterans in a more expedited fashion.” Senator Connors currently serves on the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee as well as the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs Committee.
Assemblyman Van Pelt, who serves on the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, went on to add, “Putting aside vouchers for veterans will mean less veterans on a waiting list to receive housing assistance which they should be entitled to in recognition of their service. Additionally, the freedom that vouchers offer in allowing the recipient greater choice in determining their residence, as long as all guidelines are met, makes this a more attractive and appropriate form of assistance. Our Delegation recently held a veterans’ roundtable with various veterans’ groups in our District. We were pleased with the positive feedback on this specific initiative and certainly hope the Legislative Leadership decides to make this a priority of the Legislative agenda.”
The bill currently awaits a full vote in the Senate and Assembly consideration.
Its not always easy for veterans to find affordable places to live - either rentals or sales. There may soon be some new options for the brave men and women who protect our freedom who are looking for housing thanks to a measure introduced in the Senate by 9th District Lawmakers.
The Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee has favorably released legislation S-2182 introduced by Senator Chris Connors and Assemblymen Brian Rumpf and Dan Van Pelt that would require a portion of tenant-based assistance vouchers under the State Rental Assistance Program be reserved for grants to veterans.
Senator Connors says “Dedicating a portion of vouchers provided under the State Rental Assistance Program exclusively for veterans would be an effective means of fulfilling the obligation of government to provide housing assistance to those who have served our country in the Armed Forces and are struggling financially and in sponsoring this legislation, our Delegation felt that utilizing an existing program would allow for the state to provide this form of assistance to our veterans in a more expedited fashion.” Senator Connors currently serves on the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee as well as the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs Committee.
Assemblyman Van Pelt, who serves on the Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee, went on to add, “Putting aside vouchers for veterans will mean less veterans on a waiting list to receive housing assistance which they should be entitled to in recognition of their service. Additionally, the freedom that vouchers offer in allowing the recipient greater choice in determining their residence, as long as all guidelines are met, makes this a more attractive and appropriate form of assistance. Our Delegation recently held a veterans’ roundtable with various veterans’ groups in our District. We were pleased with the positive feedback on this specific initiative and certainly hope the Legislative Leadership decides to make this a priority of the Legislative agenda.”
The bill currently awaits a full vote in the Senate and Assembly consideration.
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Navy May Make A Decision This Week On A Proposal To Let Civilians Live In Housing On Naval Weapons Station Earle
The Assistant Secretary of the Navy is expected this week to sign the record of decision to finalize a proposal to allow civilians to live in housing on Naval Weapons Station Earle.
Opponents say opening 300 homes on Earle to civilians is a security risk and would overwhelm local schools.
The Neptune Township Committee recently passed a resolution supporting a proposal to let disabled and senior veterans live in the housing.
Neptune Committeeman Randy Bishop says it resolves the issue with school children and he says there's no security risk because retired veterans are cleared to be on the base.
By: Janet Fried
Opponents say opening 300 homes on Earle to civilians is a security risk and would overwhelm local schools.
The Neptune Township Committee recently passed a resolution supporting a proposal to let disabled and senior veterans live in the housing.
Neptune Committeeman Randy Bishop says it resolves the issue with school children and he says there's no security risk because retired veterans are cleared to be on the base.
By: Janet Fried
A State Supreme Court Decision Prompts Legislators to Act on Toughening Megan's Law
By: Rosetta Key
This week the State Supreme Court struck a blow to virtually all local ordinances that restrict where convicted sex offenders can live. Now, officials in well over 120 New Jersey municipalities and State lawmakers are pondering their next move to close what they're calling holes in Megan's Law.
In Monmouth County, Middletown has a sex offender residency ordinance that mirrors its drug-free school zones rules. Township Attorney Brian Nelson says "the ordinance set exclusionary zones that would prohibit a sex offender from residing within certain areas of the township near public schools, parks, playgrounds and the like."
Nelson says following this week's ruling, they'll be closely examining the language of the Supreme Court Judges because he says they didn't outright say that all such ordinances would be banned. He says "they'll be looking to see whether there is possibly a less restrictive means that would comply with the court's decision. If not, it would likely have to be repealed."
Meanwhile, Shore area State Lawmakers accuse New Jersey's Supreme Court Judges as being activist judges who routinely legislate from the bench. For them, the decision by the judges to strike down the Pedophile Free Zones ordinances in Galloway Township and Cherry Hill only serves as a rallying cry to push through state legislation to restrict where convicted sex offenders can live.
Monmouth County's 12Th District Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande says there are several bills sitting in the Assembly that would place residency restrictions on high risk sex offenders. She says "if the Supreme Court says the municipalities can't plug those holes in Megan's Law, I think its time that the legislature steps up and moves that legislation through."
Casagrande sits on the Assembly Judiciary Committee and says she'll be recommending that they review some of those bills before they break for the summer to make sure that we bar some of these high-risk sex offenders from living next to our schools and playgrounds.
Ocean County's 9th District lawmakers, Senator Chris Connors, Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Dan Van Pelt introduced a residency restriction measure that's been languishing in committee. Connors says, "now that the Supreme Court has had the final word, I think now it's time for the legislature to correct the law to extend it to allow Megan's Law to be applied so that we can establish residency restrictions."
Connors says the court's decision adds further credibility to their measure and they'll be asking the presiding officers of both houses to support the legislation and get it out of committee and try to get it out to a vote.
This week the State Supreme Court struck a blow to virtually all local ordinances that restrict where convicted sex offenders can live. Now, officials in well over 120 New Jersey municipalities and State lawmakers are pondering their next move to close what they're calling holes in Megan's Law.
In Monmouth County, Middletown has a sex offender residency ordinance that mirrors its drug-free school zones rules. Township Attorney Brian Nelson says "the ordinance set exclusionary zones that would prohibit a sex offender from residing within certain areas of the township near public schools, parks, playgrounds and the like."
Nelson says following this week's ruling, they'll be closely examining the language of the Supreme Court Judges because he says they didn't outright say that all such ordinances would be banned. He says "they'll be looking to see whether there is possibly a less restrictive means that would comply with the court's decision. If not, it would likely have to be repealed."
Meanwhile, Shore area State Lawmakers accuse New Jersey's Supreme Court Judges as being activist judges who routinely legislate from the bench. For them, the decision by the judges to strike down the Pedophile Free Zones ordinances in Galloway Township and Cherry Hill only serves as a rallying cry to push through state legislation to restrict where convicted sex offenders can live.
Monmouth County's 12Th District Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande says there are several bills sitting in the Assembly that would place residency restrictions on high risk sex offenders. She says "if the Supreme Court says the municipalities can't plug those holes in Megan's Law, I think its time that the legislature steps up and moves that legislation through."
Casagrande sits on the Assembly Judiciary Committee and says she'll be recommending that they review some of those bills before they break for the summer to make sure that we bar some of these high-risk sex offenders from living next to our schools and playgrounds.
Ocean County's 9th District lawmakers, Senator Chris Connors, Assemblyman Brian Rumpf and Assemblyman Dan Van Pelt introduced a residency restriction measure that's been languishing in committee. Connors says, "now that the Supreme Court has had the final word, I think now it's time for the legislature to correct the law to extend it to allow Megan's Law to be applied so that we can establish residency restrictions."
Connors says the court's decision adds further credibility to their measure and they'll be asking the presiding officers of both houses to support the legislation and get it out of committee and try to get it out to a vote.
NJ's Leading Republicans in The State Legislature Pay A Visit to Toms River
It was all budget talk in Toms River as New Jersey's leading Republicans in the State Legislature, Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr. and Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce met with Ocean County Freeholder Director John Bartlett and Freeholder Gerry Little.
DeCroce says Ocean County's budget is a model for the state, which has a bad habit of overspending. The Assemblyman says "Governor Corzine and the Democratic Legislature had to borrow money just to pay the rebate back to the seniors, and they shouldn't have done that."
Senator Tom Kean, Jr. says Governor Corzine is keeping his fiscal plan a secret and is not willing to work with a bipartisan group of legislators, "He wants to go at it alone and offer solutions on June 15th for a problem that is happening today...that is wrong."
The pair praised Ocean County Freeholders for putting together a spending plan that held the line on taxes and included no cuts in services or programs. The 357 million dollar county budget had no tax increase, reduced overtime, and cut operating expenses.
Politicians And Affordable Housing Advocates Take A Bus Tour To Check Out Affordable Housing In Monmouth County
The tour Thursday was put together by The Monmouth Advocacy Team and The Monmouth County Association of Realtors.
The goal of the event was to bring people together to educate municipal, county and state leaders as well as civic organizations and the public about housing needs and opportunities in Monmouth County.
The organizers also wanted to foster discussion about responsible housing design and development in order to dispel myths that limit housing choices in communities.
The tour included six single family detached dwellings in Freehold Borough, condominiums in the Belford section of Middletown, senior apartments in the Navasink section of Middletown and condominiums in Eatontown.
The tour was based on three successful bus tours conducted by the Morris County Housing Alliance.
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is planning a dozen tours around the state that showcase community economic development efforts and the impacts they are having in these localities.
By: Janet Fried
The goal of the event was to bring people together to educate municipal, county and state leaders as well as civic organizations and the public about housing needs and opportunities in Monmouth County.
The organizers also wanted to foster discussion about responsible housing design and development in order to dispel myths that limit housing choices in communities.
The tour included six single family detached dwellings in Freehold Borough, condominiums in the Belford section of Middletown, senior apartments in the Navasink section of Middletown and condominiums in Eatontown.
The tour was based on three successful bus tours conducted by the Morris County Housing Alliance.
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is planning a dozen tours around the state that showcase community economic development efforts and the impacts they are having in these localities.
By: Janet Fried
Thursday, May 7, 2009
A Former Football Star Comes To Freehold For National Cancer Survivors Day
by Jason Allentoff
He was the inspiration for the 2006 Disney Film Invincible. Now former Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver Vince Papale brings his courageous battle with colon cancer to Freehold Township.
While wearing Jersey Number 83 on the N.F.L. field, Papale fought many challenges. But when doctors told him he had colorectal cancer at age 55, he faced the biggest challenge of his life. He underwent surgery to remove the polyp.
Now, eight years later and at age 63, Papale has beaten the disease and continues to spread awareness about the importance of health screenings. He says you can't imagine the thoughts and feelings that run though your head when you get news that you're terminally ill. He says "there is a stigma that you've been handed a death sentence. But that isn't true. Attitude and your willingness to make it through are your greatest assets and it takes a lot of work and strength."
In honor of this year's National Cancer Survivors Day set for Sunday, June 7th, Papale will be at the new Star and Barry Tobias Ambulatory Campus at CentraState Hospital in Freehold beginning at 12:30. Space will be limited so registration is recommended. Call 1-877-586-4779 to reserve your place.
For more information on National Cancer Survivors Day, log on to ncsdf.org
He was the inspiration for the 2006 Disney Film Invincible. Now former Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver Vince Papale brings his courageous battle with colon cancer to Freehold Township.
While wearing Jersey Number 83 on the N.F.L. field, Papale fought many challenges. But when doctors told him he had colorectal cancer at age 55, he faced the biggest challenge of his life. He underwent surgery to remove the polyp.
Now, eight years later and at age 63, Papale has beaten the disease and continues to spread awareness about the importance of health screenings. He says you can't imagine the thoughts and feelings that run though your head when you get news that you're terminally ill. He says "there is a stigma that you've been handed a death sentence. But that isn't true. Attitude and your willingness to make it through are your greatest assets and it takes a lot of work and strength."
In honor of this year's National Cancer Survivors Day set for Sunday, June 7th, Papale will be at the new Star and Barry Tobias Ambulatory Campus at CentraState Hospital in Freehold beginning at 12:30. Space will be limited so registration is recommended. Call 1-877-586-4779 to reserve your place.
For more information on National Cancer Survivors Day, log on to ncsdf.org
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Road to Collective Bargaining Bumpy for St. Barnabas Nurses in Ocean County
By: Rosetta Key
Rumors of a possible nurses strike are completely unfounded and not being generated by them. That's the response a union official representing an estimated 400 Ocean County nurses gives when you ask her about the status of contract negotiations.
However, it doesn't mean that talks between a Saint Barnabas Healthcare System negotiating team and New Jersey Nurses Union Local 1091 are trouble free.
Union President Maria Refinski says so far negotiations are fair and they've reached some agreement on several non-economic issues with one exception. She says they can't seem to get hospital officials at Kimball Medical Center in Lakewood or Saint Barnabas Behavioral Health in Toms River to agree to allow nurses to have two 15 minute breaks during a twelve hour shift. She says, "we need those breaks to regroup and just to get ourselves together to continue throughout the rest of the shift."
Refinski says, "as of now the negotiation team is also saying no to all their economic proposals." She says what's most important to the nurses are their medical and pension benefits.
Refinski says problem here is in the language of their present contract. "Right now the hospital has the right unilaterally to reduce or to eliminate our benefits or to take pieces of our benefits away and they have the unlimited right to increase the cost on the nurses." She says, "we're looking to eliminate that language and to secure our benefits." Refinski says they're even willing to fore go a wage proposal for a year to get that.
Refinski says the current contract was extended to May 15th and they have one more negotiation session scheduled May 12th before it expires.
The Saint Barnabas Healthcare System did not return our calls for comment.
Rumors of a possible nurses strike are completely unfounded and not being generated by them. That's the response a union official representing an estimated 400 Ocean County nurses gives when you ask her about the status of contract negotiations.
However, it doesn't mean that talks between a Saint Barnabas Healthcare System negotiating team and New Jersey Nurses Union Local 1091 are trouble free.
Union President Maria Refinski says so far negotiations are fair and they've reached some agreement on several non-economic issues with one exception. She says they can't seem to get hospital officials at Kimball Medical Center in Lakewood or Saint Barnabas Behavioral Health in Toms River to agree to allow nurses to have two 15 minute breaks during a twelve hour shift. She says, "we need those breaks to regroup and just to get ourselves together to continue throughout the rest of the shift."
Refinski says, "as of now the negotiation team is also saying no to all their economic proposals." She says what's most important to the nurses are their medical and pension benefits.
Refinski says problem here is in the language of their present contract. "Right now the hospital has the right unilaterally to reduce or to eliminate our benefits or to take pieces of our benefits away and they have the unlimited right to increase the cost on the nurses." She says, "we're looking to eliminate that language and to secure our benefits." Refinski says they're even willing to fore go a wage proposal for a year to get that.
Refinski says the current contract was extended to May 15th and they have one more negotiation session scheduled May 12th before it expires.
The Saint Barnabas Healthcare System did not return our calls for comment.
Monmouth University Students Have Suggestions On How New Jersey Can Increase Revenue
Three professors helped guide the seven students in The Department of Economics, Finance and Real Estate this past semester as they thought of ways New Jersey could increase revenue in an environmentally proactive way.
The students are suggesting a five cent tax on plastic bags, raising the gas tax to increase revenue, and changing specialty license plates.
The class says the state could generate about 400-million-dollars a year if it implements their suggestions.
The students plan to give their money-saving suggestions to Governor Jon Corzine.
By: Janet Fried
The students are suggesting a five cent tax on plastic bags, raising the gas tax to increase revenue, and changing specialty license plates.
The class says the state could generate about 400-million-dollars a year if it implements their suggestions.
The students plan to give their money-saving suggestions to Governor Jon Corzine.
By: Janet Fried
Monmouth County Is Getting Over 11 Million Dollars In Federal Stimulus Money For Transportation Projects.
Monmouth County Engineer Joseph Ettore says four projects have been selected for funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
He says the money will go towards the resurfacing of 27 miles of county roadway,43 traffic signals will be updated, there's a bridge and dam reconstruction project and work will be done on the Oceanic Bridge.
Ettore spoke at the Monmouth County Transportation Council's Transportation Summit Tuesday at Monmouth University.
By: Janet Fried
He says the money will go towards the resurfacing of 27 miles of county roadway,43 traffic signals will be updated, there's a bridge and dam reconstruction project and work will be done on the Oceanic Bridge.
Ettore spoke at the Monmouth County Transportation Council's Transportation Summit Tuesday at Monmouth University.
By: Janet Fried
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Hindenburg Memorial at Navy Lakehurst
By Tom Mongelli
An explosion that shook the world and changed the course of aviation is commemorated May 6th at Lakehurst Naval Air Station. It was on that site, 72 years ago to the day, that the German airship Hindenburg ignited into a massive ball of flame during docking on an otherwise routine trans-Atlantic journey.
Members of the Navy Lakehurst Historical Society memorialize the 35 passengers and crew members who died that day, along with Navy and Army airship casualties and enlistees who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The tragedy is captured forever in film footage and live radio reports by Chicago reporter Herb Morrison. Society President Carl Jablonski recalls that capturing video was still in its infancy, and Morrison was experimenting with the technology. More interestingly, he says, the coverage could have been much greater.
"There were a lot of other photographers...assigned," Jablonski says. "'Aw, this is just another landing.' Half of them didn't even show up. There were guys sitting in bars in New Yorik City."
Jablonsky says the incident remains endlessly fascinating, judging from an upsurge of inquiries he's received for data from high school and college students in the past year. Finding shards and relics on site, to this day, remains the stuff of local legend.
The observance starts at 7 pm.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Toms River Councilman Peter Cassano Mourned
By Tom Mongelli
Family, friends and colleagues today remember Peter Cassano as a nurturing spirit who infused the Township Council with a spirit at once humane and urbane. Cassano lost a lengthy struggle with cancer Friday at age 76.
The former banking executive died at his home in the township's Lake Ridge section, where he settled for the past 13 years. The Brooklyn native had lived 30 years in Edison, building a career as a banking executive and taking an active role in Middlesex County politics. He served on the Dover Township (later Toms River) Board of Adjustment before winning an at-large Council seat in 2007, ascending along with Mayor Thomas Kelaher.
"He not only brought some level of expertise, but a very warm personality and a good sense of humor," Kelaher said. The two shared common ground as military veterans who served during the Korean conflict.
"Pete was the kind of guy who had that sense of loyalty," Kelaher reflected. "If he was with you, he was with you one-hundred percent."
Cassano was also a trustee and ecumenical minister at St. Luke's Parish in Toms River, where his funeral takes place Wednesday. He is preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Catherine. He is survived by a son, five daughters and sons-in-law, a brother-in-law and a living companion.
Please address questions-comments to wobmnews@wobm.com.
Friday, May 1, 2009
New Jersey's Legislature Has The 11th Highest Proportion Of Women In The Nation
The Garden State's Legislature includes 10 women in the Senate and 27 in the Assembly.
In the New Jersey Legislature, 30.8 percent of the 120 legislators are women. Nationally, women are 24.3 percent of all state lawmakers.
"For a state that ranked 43rd as recently as 2004, this is a stunning improvement, putting us on the doorstep of the top 10," says Debbie Walsh, Director of The Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.
Walsh says the CAWP's "Ready to Run" campaign training program has been one factor in expanding the pool of Jersey women seeking and winning elective office.
She says some party leaders have also begun to look for women to fill vacancies or run for winnable seats.
But Walsh says a continued effort is vital because the new ranking is precarious.
By: Janet Fried
In the New Jersey Legislature, 30.8 percent of the 120 legislators are women. Nationally, women are 24.3 percent of all state lawmakers.
"For a state that ranked 43rd as recently as 2004, this is a stunning improvement, putting us on the doorstep of the top 10," says Debbie Walsh, Director of The Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.
Walsh says the CAWP's "Ready to Run" campaign training program has been one factor in expanding the pool of Jersey women seeking and winning elective office.
She says some party leaders have also begun to look for women to fill vacancies or run for winnable seats.
But Walsh says a continued effort is vital because the new ranking is precarious.
By: Janet Fried
Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone Says Federal Health Officials Are Doing A Good Job And Are Well Positioned To Deal With The Swine Flu
Pallone, Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held an emergency hearing Thursday. He says a lot of things have been done since the last Bird Flu scare.
"I think we sort of are lucky and that the Bird Flu situation was a wake up call and we put processes in place to have a better response and to have Tamiflu and to be able to do the vaccine relatively quickly and now we are prepared," says Pallone.
He says federal health officials have asked for an additional one-point-five-billion-dollars to address the outbreak.
Pallone says health officials are creating a Swine Flu vaccine that may be ready this fall.
By: Janet Fried
"I think we sort of are lucky and that the Bird Flu situation was a wake up call and we put processes in place to have a better response and to have Tamiflu and to be able to do the vaccine relatively quickly and now we are prepared," says Pallone.
He says federal health officials have asked for an additional one-point-five-billion-dollars to address the outbreak.
Pallone says health officials are creating a Swine Flu vaccine that may be ready this fall.
By: Janet Fried
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