Political Affiliations Over Participation Matter More When It Comes To Board Appointments

Due to my work schedule I can't make as many Township Committee meeting as I would like, but when I do have to opportunity to attend a meeting I usually walk away enlightened, though usually not in a way that people would expect. I often walk away shaking my head because often those that sit up on the dais, both elected and appointed, show their contempt and arrogance for anyone that disagrees with them.

I have witnessed more than once, the shameful display of eye-rolling, sneers, snickering, laughter and outright contempt directed at those who express concerns that run contrary to what those on the dais feel or believe. Many times, instead of allowing a person to speak they are cut-off in mid-sentence and berated the likes of Tony Fiore or the Township Attorney Brian Nelson, and because an argument often ensues the speakers points go unaddressed.

During the Dec. 19th public hearing on Ordinance 2011-3048, the ordinance to expand the Middletown Library Board of Trustees, much of the same behavior was witnessed being directed at two who spoke against the expansion of the board of trustees. Only this time, Tony Fiore inadvertently admitted what many throughout Middletown already know,that is unless you are a loyal Republican you have no chance of having your concerns or opinions truly addressed or heard and unless you are someone that would have voted for him or others on the dais in an election, you have virtually no chance whatsoever of being able to participate on various boards or commissions that are sponsored by the Township.

Here's the proof to back up my point; during the hearing Ms. Linda Baum, who has been very critical of the Township Committee, its members and their practices was addressing her concerns and disapproval of the ordinance. During much of this time, she was often interrupted by Tony Fiore and told that what she was saying was not relevant (even though it went to the heart of the matter for the reason for expanding the board of trustees) and when she reiterated the thoughts of another speaker, Melanie Elmiger, about politicizing the process for appointments, Ms. Baum stated how she had applied for one of the new appointments to the Library's Board of Trustees but didn't expect to get it because of her party affiliation (Ms.Baum is a register Democrat), at which point Fiore basically agreed. Ms. Baum continued her discussion by stating that active participation matters and that those that participate by going to meetings and paying attention to what goes on at said meetings, should have a higher priority for consideration when it come to appointments to the various boards that individuals take the time and interest to attend meetings for. She stated that those people would have a better understand of what goes on then those that have never attended a meeting before.

Somehow though, Tony Fiore disagreed with that logic and said that it wasn't necessarily the case.

Below is an excerpt from the current edition of "It's Your Town" newsletter that documented the exchange between Fiore and Baum along with a brief audio clip that captures some of the exchange between the two.

The audio is just enough to support my point about the arrogance of those that represent Middletown residents on the Township Committee and the blatant partisan politics that they play:

"...She said she wanted to repeat what Ms. Elmiger said earlier relating to the political appointments as a method of selection. She said she applied to be appointed to the Library Board but did not

expect to be appointed because of party affiliation. Mr. Fiore said that Ms. Baum had as much of a chance of being appointed to the Library Board as he had in having her vote for him in the election. Ms. Baum said that participation matters and they should think about who attends the Library meetings because they would be up on what is going on. Mr. Fiore said that is not always the case..."

Brightbill Denies Interest in Silva's Job; We'll See

Back on Monday, December 19 th, I was the first to break the story about Middletown Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, Gregg Silva being placed on indefinite administrative leave. In that post, I commented that a rumor was also circulating that departing Township Committeewoman Pamela Brightbill was next in line to replace Silva as Director.

At that evenings Township Committee meeting, Brightbill was praised and lauded by her fellow committee members and members of the public, for her years of service to the Township.

At no time during the course of the evening did Gregg Silva's name come up or did anyone suggest that Pam Brightbill would make a good replacement for him (although other suggestions were made about what boards or committees she would excel at if placed on).

It wasn't until after the meeting that Township officials were approached by members of the media about Silva's departure and the rumor about Brightbill taking over for him.

To be expected, no one would publicly comment on Silva's situation and only state that the matter was being handle internally.

Kudos however goes to Sue Morgan of Middletown-Patch for going the extra mile by asking Pam Brightbill in a telephone conversation the following day, if she was interested in taking over for Silva to run the Department of Parks & Recreation.

According to the article that was posted, Brightbill denied having any interest in taking over for Gregg Silva and saying that she prefers to continue volunteering on one or more advisory boards.

The brief article then goes on to state inadvertently, the very reason why so many feel that Brightbill is next in line to succeed Silva by stating, "The deputy mayor's extensive resume of community involvement includes times on the advisory board to the parks and recreation department and other volunteer activities relative to township government and the local school district."

I for one said at the time I heard the rumor, that I thought it was unlikely for Pam Brightbill to take over for Gregg Silva and I am glad that she has now gone on the record denying having any interest, but to be frank, I wouldn't have expected her to confirm having interest either.

We'll just have to sit back and see what happens over the next few weeks concerning the ongoing investigation of Gregg Silva and whether or not he is terminated as a Township employees, before we can place any credence on Pam's denials.

It's Your Town - Newsletter Volume 3, Issue 24-12/19/11

The latest and last edition of "It's Your Town" newsletter for the year, which covers the Middletown Township Committee meeting for Dec. 19th, 2011, is now available for your reading pleasure.

Besides the usual contents of the newsletter such as the monthly bill list and various ordinances and resolutions, inside this newsletter you will read a very accurate representation of the public hearing concerning the expansion of the Middletown Library's Board of Trustees, Ordinance 2011-3048 , which became a rather testy affair at times between acting mayor Tony Fiore and the members of the public that stepped forward to address their concerns over the expansion of the board.

The expansion of the Library Board is seen by many as a way for the Township to gain greater influence over the Library's budget and business dealings, to ensure that future surpluses are readily available for the Township's purposes and a repeat of the public spectacle that took place earlier this year over the Township Committee's ruthlessly brutal extortion of $500K worth of surplus and reserved funds from the Library.

This was also the last Township Committee meeting of acting deputy-mayor Pamela Brightbill, who decided not to seek reelection to the Township Committee this year. A Proclamation was presented to Brightbill for her years of service.

You can download the newsletter ..... Here

Dec 19th Hearing on the Ordinance Adding Two Additional Trustees to the Library Board: M'town Patch & Independent articles contain inaccuracies

By guest blogger Linda Baum

If you are a regular to Mike’s blog, by now you are well informed about the Library’s $500,000 transfer to the Township this year and the Town Committee’s plan to increase the number of Library trustees from 7 to 9 in 2012.

A public hearing on the Ordinance increasing Board membership was held at the Town Committee meeting on Monday, December 19th. Several reporters were present at the hearing. Mike Davis’s article in the Independent and Sue Morgan’s in the Middletown Patch were posted within a day or two. While they get points for timeliness, they lose some for accuracy.

Sue Morgan misstates the amount of the Library’s annual budget as $700K – it is $3.7M – but that is a minor error compared to the second to last sentence of her article. She wrote:

“Under an agreement hammered out by both the board and the committee, the township is now carrying the debt service on the library’s parking lot which recently underwent extensive repairs, the mayor added.”

The statement is inaccurate in two ways. As far as I know, there was no major work done to the lot recently, and the Library did not proceed with its lot expansion. Further, per the agreement this year between the Library and the Township, the Library has only two options for covering the cost of its capital improvements – they can pay cash or they can make the debt service payments on bonds (or notes) issued by the Township.

I don’t recall Mayor Fiore making the statement as it reads in the Patch article, and I think it can be attributed to an intentionally misleading comment he made, as quoted in the Independent, about encompassing “some of [the Library’s] capital projects into [the Township’s] capital program, including their parking lot and solar projects.” That made it sound like the Township is paying, but there is no cost to the Township for either the lot expansion or the solar project, which is a power purchase arrangement that involves no capital outlay.

Both the Independent and Patch articles included comments made by both Melanie Elmiger and myself. Melanie presented her comments very well at the hearing and I think they were captured fairly accurately in the articles. However, I think some of what I said was misrepresented in the Independent.

I would like to set the record straight, so here is a recap of my comments at the hearing along with excerpts from the Independent where I feel Mike Davis missed the mark.

Mayor Fiore has been framing the increase in Library Board membership as just an increase in public participation, with no other motive. So if more participation is a good thing for the Library Board, I questioned why that isn’t also true for the Sewerage Authority (TOMSA) Board and for the Town Committee itself, both with just 5 members each controlling budgets of $9 million and $60 million, respectively. In contrast, the Library Board currently has 7 members, soon to be 9, overseeing a budget of $3.7 million.

My point was that the Town Committee’s stance about the need for more public participation on the Library Board runs counter to their stance about the participation levels on other boards & committees. (Keep in mind the Town Committee has resisted the formation of a finance committee that would increase public participation and oversight of its own activities.)

Mayor Fiore replied that TOMSA has 7 board members, and I was quick to correct him that it is a 5-member board with 2 alternates, where only 5 vote at any time. Fiore again insisted, incorrectly, that there are 7 members.

Besides the inconsistencies in board size, there are also inconsistencies in oversight. I compared the Township’s scrutiny of the Library’s budget and operations to its hands-off approach to TOMSA and said that a consistent policy was needed. Fiore said that they do oversee TOMSA and that the money TOMSA gave to the Township – $730K over the last two years – is proof of that. Ridiculous. As I see it, that handout could just as easily be interpreted as a concession to avoid scrutiny. Regardless, it certainly can’t be construed as proof of oversight.

(An aside: If the Town Committee is really overseeing TOMSA and is so gung ho about public participation, how is it the TOMSA Board was able to avoid the public’s eye recently by ignoring a legal mandate to publish notice of their budget hearing? And shouldn’t oversight of TOMSA’s budget entail elimination of unwarranted expenses, such as medical and pension benefits for Board members? The Township has sanctioned these costs!)

Mike Davis’s article contains some partial quotes, inaccuracies, and re-ordering of comments that, combined, miss the point I was trying to make. He describes my comments as follows:

“Public participation is a good thing. You see [that] nine members are needed to oversee a $3.8 million budget,” she said, also citing the seven members who make up the Township of Middletown Sewerage Authority.”

The Township Committee was not exempt, she said.

“Right now you have five people on the Township Committee controlling a $60 million budget. It seems to me you need a consistent policy here. If you’re going to watch one closely, watch them all closely,” Baum said.

I think that anyone reading that would have trouble following my logic. Also, he makes it sound like I’m arguing in favor of the two additional appointees to the Library Board, which I wasn’t. I’m against it given the current political environment, but I admit I may not have stated that outright. I didn’t organize my comments as well as Melanie did, so I can understand if there was confusion.

Saturday Morning Cartoons: Tom & Jerry -Night Before Christmas

Santa Is On His Way - Santa Norad Tracker

It may be the morning of Christmas Eve here in Middletown but that doesn't stop Santa, he has already left the North is on the way.

This year, as in years past, you can keep an eye on where Santa is all throughout the day by checking in on his travels with the NORAD Tracker (NORAD is the bi-national U.S.-Canadian military organization responsible for the aerospace and maritime defense of the United States and Canada).

The NORAD Tracker is a great interactive website for the kids to explore, there are a number of items on the website for kids of all ages, to play with while waiting for Santa's arrival.

As an example, there are videos (like the one below) that show Santa leaving the North Pole that give updates to where Santa has been and where he is heading next. Kids can track Santa via Google Earth, a fun interactive play area that is called Countdown to Track Santa, where kids can play fun games while waiting his arrival. There are also tabs to the website that explain all about Santa and NORAD, so the Santa Tracker website is not only a fun place for kids to spend time while waiting for Santa, it is also educational.

President Obama's Weekly Address 12/24/11 : The President and First Lady Thank our Troops for their Service as we Celebrate the Holiday Season

WASHINGTON— In this week’s address, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama came together to wish the American people a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and thanked our troops, military families, and veterans for their service and sacrifice. President Obama and Michelle Obama encouraged everyone to visit JoiningForces.gov to find ways to give back to our brave men and women in uniform and their families during the holiday season as we work together in the spirit of service.

Giants v. Jets for Princess - Week 16

It's Christmas Eve and week 16 of the NFL season is upon us, with all the holiday happenings swirling around the past few day, I lost track of the days. I thought I had an extra day to get ready for the big NY showdown between the Giants and the Jets today. Luckily Princess the Camel didn't.

Both the Giants and the Jets are playng for their playoff lives today. If the Giants lose to the Jets today they're done and might as well go home and spend New Years Day with their families instead of with the Cowboys in MetLife Stadium. If the Jets lose to the Giants, mathematically they're not finished, they still have a chance of making the playoffs with a lot of help from others, which is unlikely.

So who does Princess like today? Well she is sticking with her favorite and picking the Giants over the Jets today.

"...This is a tough one, anything can happen. It’s almost like one of them is going to win by accident. I know Rex is going to have his defense psyched for the game but somehow I think the Giants defense is going to be better and if Eli can get his game together the Giants should win!..."

Well, we'll see. Princess (and I) thought that last week the Giants were going to prevail against the Redskins and we know how that turned out.

For those keeping track, Princess's pick record stands at 9(W) - 6(L) thus far this year.

Crime Scene Middletown: Man Arrested For Counterfeiting And Passing Phony $20 Bills To Area Buisnesses

Written by Middletown Township Police Department
Tuesday, 20 December 2011 -Arrests do not indicate convictions

Detective Daniel Sullivan arrested Brian Miller, age 21, from Walnut Avenue in Red Bank, NJ, for numerous counts of Theft by Deception as a result of a two month joint investigation conducted by the Middletown Police Department and the Trenton Office of the United States Secret Service into counterfeit twenty dollar bills that had been passed to numerous businesses throughout the area.

Police say Miller had passed the phony bills to businesses in Middletown, Holmdel, Atlantic Highlands, Fair Haven and Keansburg and had been charged by the police departments in those towns as well. He was released pending a court date.

The Middletown Police Department and the United States Secret Service were assisted by Detective Sergeant Thomas Stone of the Atlantic Highlands Police Department.

On December 18, 2011 Detective Adam Finck arrested Christopher Dressler, age 26, from Twilight Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, on three counts of Burglary, two counts of Criminal Mischief and one count of Theft by Unlawful Taking as a result of an investigation into burglaries to three homes on Thompson Avenue in Middletown on December 18. Dressler was held on $22,500 bail.

Stephen O’Rourke, age 46, from Ridge Hill Way, in Holmdel, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Patrolman Lawrence Seymour for Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving. He was released pending a court date.

Anthony Mullins, age 28, from Greenfield Way in Belford, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Corporal Thomas Meckier on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Marlboro Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Brian Timothy Clancy, age 19, from Baldwin Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood and Patrolman Richard Fulham of the Quality of Life Unit for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Adrian Diffendale, age 18, from Reta Lane in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Patrolman Darrin Simon on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Howell Municipal Court. She was released after posting $89.00 bail.

Patrick Smith, age 23, from Williamson Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Patrolman John Soltysik on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Perth Amboy Municipal Court. He was held on $915.00 bail.

Justin Lewallen, age 19, from Division Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on December 20, 2011 by Patrolman Felipe Benedit for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

Michael Landi, age 25, from Blueberry Lane in Tinton Falls, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Nicholas Fenezia on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Monmouth Beach Municipal Court. He was held on $1,000.00 bail.

Daniel Pedalino, age 21, from Buttonwood Drive in Marlboro, NJ, arrested on December 21, 2011 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood and Patrolman Richard Fulham of the Quality of Life Unit for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana. He was released pending a court date.

Christopher Burke, age 19, from Radcliffe Drive in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on December 21, 2011 by Patrolman Richard Fulham and Patrolman Stephen Greenwood of the Quality of Life Unit for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was released pending a court date.

William Clark, age 18, from Hilltop Circle in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on December 21, 2011 by Patrolman Richard Fulham and Patrolman Stephen Greenwood of the Quality of Life Unit for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana. He was released pending a court date.

Jeffrey Rupell, age 55, from Apple Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 21, 2011 by Detective William Strohkirch for Theft of Lost or Mislaid Property as a result of an investigation conducted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. He was released pending a court date.

William Knabe, age34, from Beacon Boulevard in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on December 21, 2011 by Patrolman Ian May for Robbery, Theft and Simple Assault, and on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Holmdel Municipal Court and on a Failure to Appear warrant issued by the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Facility in Freehold, NJ.

John Topping, age 51, from Dakota Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Ian May for Driving While Intoxicated. He was released pending a court date.

Paulo Gamba, age 19, from Thompson Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Darrin Simon for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Alcohol Underage. He was released pending a court date.

Anthony Colacino, age 18, from Crystal Court in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Darrin Simon for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Alcohol Underage and on two Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Kyle Clayton, age 19, from Thousand Oaks Drive in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Darrin Simon for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana and Possession of Alcohol Underage. He was released pending a court date.

Nina Gonsalves, age 26, from Knollwood Drive in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Ian May on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Secaucus Municipal Court. She was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Bridget Price, age 23, from Argyll Circle in Lakewood, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Ian May on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Tinton Falls Municipal Court. She was released after posting $50.00 bail.

Arturo Flores-Gutierezz, age 39, from Catherine Street in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Michael Pintilie for Shoplifting from the Sears Store. He was released pending a court date.

Brian Miller, age 21, from Walnut Avenue in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Detective Daniel Sullivan for Theft by Unlawful Taking. He was released pending a court date.

Elizabeth Fitzsimmons, age 20, from Walnut Avenue in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Detective Daniel Sullivan for Theft by Unlawful Taking. She was released pending a court date.

Jerome Larson, age 51, from East Garfield Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 22, 2011 by Patrolman Michael Pintilie on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the West Caldwell Municipal Court. He was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Holiday Safety Tips #2

Be Safe on Icy Surfaces:

When you’re taking a crisp winter stroll in your neighborhood or walking through the parking lot at work or the grocery, use caution when walking out-doors in the winter. Slips and falls are some of the most frequent types of injuries, especially during the winter months Sidewalks and pavement can be slipperier than they look, resulting in falls that can cause serious injury. Follow these tips to be aware of these dangers and to learn to walk safely on ice and slippery surfaces.

· In cold temperatures assume that all wet, dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy.

· Wear sensible boots with thick, non-tread soles and low heels. Keep these in your car in case you become stranded or encounter car trouble.

· Thoroughly salt or sand your driveway, walkways and sidewalks.

· Wait until snow/ice has melted before walking on salted surfaces.

· Look before you walk. Surfaces can re-freeze during nighttime hours, making sidewalks and parking lots slippery in the morning. Walk in designated walkways as much as possible. Taking shortcuts over snow piles and other frozen areas can be hazardous. Look ahead when you walk; a snow- or ice covered sidewalk or driveway, especially if on a hill, may require travel along its grassy edge for traction.

· Point your feet out slightly like a penguin! Spreading your feet out slightly while walking on ice increases your center of gravity. Bend slightly and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over the feet as much as possible. Extend your arms out to your sides to maintain balance.

· Keep your hands out of your pockets. Hands in your pockets while walking decreases your center of gravity and balance. You can help break your fall with your hands free if you do start to slip.

· Watch where you are stepping and… GO S-L-O-W-L-Y !!

· Walk slowly and carefully, taking small steps.

· If you’re in a situation where you cannot safely walk on the snow or ice, ask someone around you for assistance.

· Don’t walk your dog using a retractable leash in snowy, icy conditions.

· When helping someone on the snow or ice, use extra caution.

· Never perform outdoor tasks requiring a ladder (i.e., hanging outdoor holiday lights on your home) during snowy or icy conditions.

· Carry a shovel and small bag of salt (or other ice melting product) in your car in case you become stuck in the snow while driving.

Be Safe in Cold Temperatures:

Exposure to cold temperatures for a prolonged period of time can result in frostbite, which causes the skin and surrounding tissues to freeze. Frostbite commonly occurs in the fingers, which may lead to loss of feeling and skin discoloration. In severe cases, frostbite can also cause permanent damage and/or loss of fingers. If you’re going to be outside in the cold weather, be sure to protect your hands.

· Frostbite can occur even when the temperature is above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind chill and moisture contribute to frostbite conditions.

· Dress in layers, including warm, insulated gloves or mittens that repel moisture. Always carry a pair in your car in case you become stranded or encounter car trouble.

· Refrain from consuming alcohol when you’re outside in the cold weather.

· People who have diabetes and neuropathy or those taking certain medications are at higher risk for frostbite.

Recognize frostbite symptoms:

· Numbness/tingling feeling

· Skin discoloration

· Hard or waxy skin

· Blisters or blackened skin

If you suspect frostbite, follow these guidelines and seek immediate medical attention:

· Go immediately to a warm place, preferably indoors.

· Carefully remove wet gloves and mittens.

· Refrain from rubbing or scratching the affected area.

· Carefully submerse affected fingers in warm (not hot) water for 30 minutes until medical care is available.

· Cover the area with a warm towel or blanket to thaw.

· If available, wrap each frostbitten finger loosely with sterile gauze.

· Thaw a frostbitten area only if it can be kept warm. Refreezing a frostbitten finger can result in permanent loss.

· Do not touch blisters occurring from frostbite.

Be Safe with Holiday Cooking:

When preparing any food, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling any meat. This will reduce any contamination to the meat and the spread of food borne illness.

Never share cutting boards without washing them thoroughly. Never place different forms of raw meat onto the same cutting board. This can cause cross contamination of the meat and spread food borne illness. Wash the cutting boards well with either hot soapy water or bleach and water solution.

Do not let your leftovers sit out longer than two hours. To prevent food borne illnesses, you should refrigerate the leftovers as soon as possible. When re-heating the leftovers, they should reach a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill any harmful bacteria.

Be Safe with Decorations:

Trees

· Many artificial trees are fire resistant. If you buy one, look for a statement specifying this protection.

· A fresh tree will stay green longer and be less of a fire hazard than a dry tree. To check for freshness, remember:

· A fresh tree is green.

· Fresh needles are hard to pull from branches.

· When bent between your fingers, fresh needles do not break.

· The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin.

· When the trunk of a tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles shows that tree is too dry.

· Place tree away from fireplaces, radiators and other heat sources. Heated rooms dry trees out rapidly, creating fire hazards.

· Cut off about two inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption. Trim away branches as necessary to set tree trunk in the base of a sturdy, water-holding stand with wide spread feet. Keep the stand filled with water while the tree is indoors.

· Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block door-ways. Use thin guy-wires to secure a large tree to walls or ceiling. These wires are almost invisible.

“Snow”

· Artificial snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled. To avoid injury, read container labels; follow directions carefully.

Lights

· Use only lights that have been tested for safety, whether using them out-side or indoors. Identify these by the label from an independent testing laboratory.

· Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Discard damaged sets or repair them before using.

· Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage.

· Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord.

· Turn off all lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights could short and start a fire.

· Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.

· The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and any person touching a branch could be electrocuted! To avoid this danger, use colored spotlights above or beside a tree, never fastened onto it!

· Keep “bubbling” lights away from children. These lights with their bright colors and bubbling movement can tempt curious children to break candle-shaped glass, which can cut, and attempt to drink liquid, which contains a hazardous chemical.

Candles

· Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens.

· Always use non-flammable holders.

· Keep candles away from other decorations and wrapping paper.

· Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over.

General Rules for Holiday Safety:

· Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of the reach of children.

· Avoid smoking near flammable decorations.

· Make an emergency plan to use if a fire breaks out anywhere in the home. See that each family member knows what to do. PRACTICE THE PLAN!

· Avoid wearing loose flowing clothes—particularly long, open sleeves—near open flames - such as those of a fireplace, stove, or candlelit table.

· Never burn candles near evergreens. Burning evergreens in the fireplace can also be hazardous. When dry, greens burn like tinder. Flames can flare out of control, and send sparks flying into a room, or up the chimney to ignite creosote deposits.

Holiday Safety Tips #1

The following tips are ways for you to keep safe during the hustle and bustle of this joyous season.

While you are shopping:

· Stay alert and be aware of everything around you. Take a minute to observe who may be watching you.

· Park in a highly visible well-lighted space. It may be daylight when you arrive at the Mall, but when you come out at 5 or 6 P.M. it will be dark.

· Lock your vehicle both when driving and parked.

· Carry your purse close to you body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

· Have your car keys in your hand and be ready to open the car door immediately.

· Place all shopping bags, packages and gifts out of sight (trunk, under seat).

· Always know where you have parked your car, so you do not spend unnecessary time walking around the parking lot.

· Look inside and under your car before entering.

· Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – use debit card, credit card or check.

· Do not overburden yourself with packages. This will help deter pickpockets or purse snatchers.

· Do not park next to a van or truck where people can hide.

· If you take children shopping, teach them to go to a police officer or a store security officer if they get separated or lost. Ensure children know that mommy and daddy would never send a person they did not know to “take them home” or “take them to find mommy or daddy.”



If you are going out for the evening:

· Turn on lights, television or radio so that it appears that someone is home.

· Lock all doors and windows, even if you plan to be gone for a few minutes.

· Holiday gifts should not be displayed where they can be seen from the outside.


If you plan to travel for the holidays:

· Ask a neighbor to watch your house or apartment, ask them to park in your driveway or space from time to time.

· Use automatic timers for your lights.

· Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries.

· Arrange to have snow shoveled (if necessary) while you are away.


Be safe while you are driving:

· Be alert at intersections and stoplights. They can be favorite spots for persons with a criminal intent.

· Keep your car in gear. If you are threatened, blow the horn, and then drive away. Leave enough space between you and the car in front of you to pull around if necessary.

· Keep windows rolled up and doors locked at all times.

· Keep valuables (purses, packages, wallets, etc.) out of sight.

· If followed – do not drive home. Go to a police station, fire house, gas station or other public place.

· If car breaks down, stay with the car and accept NO rides. If someone stops to help, ask them to call the police. Use a cell phone if available.

· Keep your vehicle well maintained and gassed up.

· When partaking of “holiday cheer,” good judgment is always in order. Remember seat-belts do save lives.


While you are at home:

· Keep all doors and windows locked, even if you step out for a moment.

· Mark all your property with an “identifier” type number. DO NOT use your social security number. Some prefer their driver’s license number

· Video tape valuables as a record of ownership.

· Inspect all holiday lights for frayed wiring before you hang them.

· If you are using a ladder to hang holiday decorations, make sure it is properly secured.

· Keep holiday decorations and plants away from young children and pets. Some are poisonous!

· Place your holiday tree, decorations, etc. away from heating vents or fireplaces to reduce the risk of fire.

· Keep fresh cut holiday greenery watered.

· Use extreme caution when using lighted candles as part of your holiday celebration.

· Beware of strangers coming to the door asking for charitable donations. Ask them four questions:

o Can you show some identification?

o Is the donation tax deductible?

o How the funds will be used? and

o May I have a receipt?

If you are not satisfied with any or all the answers tell them “no thank you” and close the door. Help a work sponsored charitable group or a charity that has special meaning to you or a loved one


While you are at the ATM:

· Stay Alert. Be aware of your surroundings when you use an ATM, especially at night. Park in a well lighted area and have someone accompany you.

· Report Suspicious People. If you notice anything unusual, cancel your transaction, pocket your card and leave IMMEDIATELY. Go to a safe place and call police.

· Be Prepared. Have everything ready (deposit slips, card) when arriving at the ATM. When you have completed the transaction, pocket your cash and card immediately. COUNT YOUR CASH AND PUT YOUR CARD AWAY LATER!

· Drive-Up ATM. When using a drive-up ATM, remember to always keep doors locked, all other (except driver’s side) windows up and the car running.

· Treat Your ATM Card Like Cash. Guard your ATM card as carefully as you do cash, debit or credit cards, and checks. Never give account numbers or card information over the phone, unless you know exactly who you are speaking to.

· Keep Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) Secret. Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it written somewhere in your wallet. Never tell anyone your PIN

Mtown News Flash 12-22-11

Traffic Advisories

Kings Highway East
Road improvements are being made on Kings Highway East between Sleepy Hollow Road and Chapel Hill Road. This portion of the road is scheduled to be closed between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday until approximately December 30^th.  Plan alternate road and/or follow detour signs.

 

Middletown-Lincroft Road and Kings Highway
Water construction on Middletown Lincroft Road and Kings Highway is nearing completion. They are in the remediation (clean-up) phase.  Alternate lane closures may occur periodically but the road is expected to remain passable.

 

Municipal Offices Holiday Schedule
Municipal offices will be closed Monday, December 26 and Monday, January 2, 2012.

 

Main Library Holiday Schedule   www.mtpl.org
Dec 24, 25, 26 – closed
Dec 31– closing at 12:30pm
Jan 1, 2 – closed

 

Holiday Garbage and Recycling Collection Schedule
There will be no garbage collection Monday December 26, 2011. The next collection for residences with a Monday garbage collection will be Thursday December 29, 2011.

There will be no garbage collection on Monday January 2, 2012.  The next collection for residences with a Monday garbage collection will be Thursday January 5, 2012.

There will be no recycling collection on Monday December 26, 2011 and January 2, 2012. Recycling will be scheduled to be collected on the following day.

 

Recycling Center Open Dec 27, 28 & Jan 3,4
The Kanes Lane Recycling Center will be OPEN on Tuesday & Wednesday December 27, 28 and January 3, 4 to accommodate residents who need to recycle cardboard, mixed paper and other items after the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

 

The Recycling Center is closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Regular operation hours will resume after January 4th. Hours are Thursday through Monday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Organization Day 2012
The Township Committee will hold Middletown’s annual Organization Day meeting at noon on Sunday, January 1, 2012 at Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway. On the agenda will be the swearing in of the 2012 Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Under the township’s form of government, the Township Committee designates two members to serve as mayor and deputy mayor for a one-year term. Committeeman Anthony P. Fiore will accept the oath of office to serve his second consecutive term. Committeewoman Elect Stephanie C. Murray will be sworn in as the newest member of the Township Committee. The term for each Committee member is three years.

Scores of volunteers traditionally attend to accept oaths of office to serve on more than a dozen township boards, committees and commissions. Each group focuses on different aspects of the community and works to enhance Middletown’s quality of life. Residents are appointed to these positions by the Township Committee. For more information call the Township Clerk at (732) 615-2014 or visit www.middletownnj.org

 

Leaf Collection
Fall leaf collection is underway. Get status reports at www.middletownnj.org/collection

 

Christmas Tree Collection 2012
Christmas Tree Collection begins January 5, 2012. Click here for schedule. Trees can also be brought to the Kanes Lane Recycling Center, 52, Kanes Lane by Middletown residents only free of charge.

 

Homestead Rebate Update
The Middletown Tax Collection Office advises property owners that the state Homestead Benefit, for property tax year 2010, is being credited to the February 2012 tax quarter for applicable property owners.  Adjusted February 2012 tax bills will be mailed on or before December 30, 2011.  Please pay the adjusted amount shown on the bill by 4:00 pm February 10, 2012 to avoid interest charges.  All questions regarding the homestead credit should be directed to the state Division of Taxation at 1-888-238-1233. 

 

Vote for the MAC in the 2012 NJ Monthly Best of NJ Poll
Please vote for the Middletown Arts Center under the category of "Recreation & Attractions: Live Theater / Arts Venue". This is the link to cast your vote: http://njmonthly.com/articles/best-of-Jersey/2012-jersey-choice-the-best-of-new-jersey.html. Deadline for voting is January 15, 2012. By winning the poll, the Middletown Arts Center would continue to spread the word statewide about its talented instructors, affordable classes, and free events and programs. It's a true pleasure to represent an organization that educates and entertains thousands of families year-round.