March 20, 2018 BOE Workshop Meeting

I'm about halfway thru watching this video from the March 20th workshop meeting of the Middletown Board of Education (BOE). I'm posting it now because the video from Wednesday night's March 28th meeting will be posted soon. People should get caught up with the current video if possible before watching the one that will be posted to the Middletown Board of Education YouTube channel.

It was during this meeting that the BOE presented an overview of the new 2018/2019 FY School Budget that would be voted on at the March 28th meeting, which included funds for additional security officers and school improvements. 



The various meeting agendas for this meeting can be found on the BOE's website.

What If There Were Cell Phones At The Resurrection?

The Hill: TripAdvisor to stop advertising on Laura Ingraham's show

Words have consequences but it seems that right-wing talking heads forget that until they loose their advertisers.

TheHill.com

Online travel website TripAdvisor is planning to stop advertising on Laura Ingraham's show after the Fox News host posted a critical tweet about a Parkland, Fla., high school student.
A company spokesperson said in a statement that the company doesn't "condone the inappropriate comments made by this broadcaster," according to CNBC.
"In our view, these statements focused on a high school student cross the line of decency. As such, we have made a decision to stop advertising on that program," the spokesperson said.

Ingraham on Wednesday shared a Daily Wire story that reported Marjory Stonemason Douglas High School student David Hogg was rejected from four colleges.

“David Hogg Rejected By Four Colleges To Which He Applied and whines about it. (Dinged by UCLA with a 4.1 GPA...totally predictable given acceptance rates),” Ingraham tweeted....

Continue reading  

Stay Tuned ...

There is some drama roaming the hallways of Town Hall this week that I don't want to comment on at the moment. I will later, after a little more information is gathered.

After Zinke Closed Door Meeting with NJ Republicans on Offshore Drilling, Pallone asks for Meeting with Democrats

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2018


Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) called on Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to meet with New Jersey Democratic Members of Congress about the Trump administration’s sweeping offshore drilling plan that has received bipartisan criticism across the state. The request comes after Secretary Zinke met with Republican members of the New Jersey Congressional delegation without extending an invitation to Democrats. Pallone also asked Zinke to respond to to his letter asking the Interior Secretary to come to New Jersey and meet with citizens who would be affected by offshore drilling.

“While it appears that Secretary Zinke made certain promises to NJ Republicans, we need greater transparency and clarity when it comes to the Trump administration’s plans for offshore drilling,” said Pallone. “The administration’s environmental record has been a disaster and vague statements made behind closed doors will do little to ease the fears of New Jerseyans over offshore drilling.”

The text of the letter can be found below and the letter is also attached.

March 26, 2018

The Honorable Ryan Zinke
Secretary
United States Department of the Interior
1849 C Street NW
Washington, DC 20240


Dear Secretary Zinke:

I write to request that you meet with the New Jersey’s Congressional Democrats to outline the Administration’s plans for implementing the 2019-2024 Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Draft Proposed Program.

According to multiple media reports, you met with Republican members of the New Jersey Congressional delegation on February 27th to discuss the Administration’s offshore leasing plans. The New Jersey Congressional Delegation is unified in its opposition to the Administration’s proposed OCS leasing program and all members would benefit from greater insight into your thinking. A frank and direct conversation on this important matter will promote transparency and help ensure the voices of those we represent are heard by the Administration, and I urge you to work expeditiously to schedule a meeting to discuss this issue with the Democratic members of the delegation.

On a related note, I would like to follow up with you regarding a January 11, 2018 invitation to personally visit New Jersey to meet with the Governor, lawmakers, and constituents who would be impacted by the 2019-2024 OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Draft Proposed Program. I have not received a response from your office on this matter. As you know, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management held a public meeting in New Jersey on February 14, 2018. While constituents from across the state came to voice their opposition to the OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program for 2019-2024, there was no opportunity to submit verbal testimony. In light of the large scope of the proposed program and the tremendous local risks associated with the program, I again ask that you schedule a Secretarial visit and afford the people of New Jersey the opportunity to share their views at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your consideration of these requests. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,




FRANK PALLONE, JR.
Member of Congress

March 19, 2018 Middletown Township Committee Meeting

There was another meeting of the Middletown Township Committee this week. If you weren't there, take a few minutes and watch the video below. The videos are always entertaining and you just might learn a thing or two about your local government.

Here are a few highlights:

• The CEO introduced the 2018 budget.
• The Township Committee presented Gerry Scharfenberger with accolades and awards for his years of service.
• Proclamations were read into the record declaring April National Alcohol Awareness and Autism Awareness month.
• The annual shared service agreement to share health services was presented.
• A contract was awarded to hire a company to staff recreation programs.
• Protective fire clothing was authorized to be purchased.
• An online auction was approved to sell 10,000 cu, yds of leaf compost
• Approval was granted to allocate funds to pay for bills and a performance bond was released to Atlantic Pier Company.

As always you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Pallone’s Bipartisan Brownfields Bill Passes in Omnibus

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2018

Legislation will help continue redevelopment of Contaminated Sites throughout

New Jersey

Washington, DC – Today, as part of the omnibus spending package, the House of Representatives passed legislation to reauthorize the Brownfields program authored by Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06). Pallone led efforts to negotiate and pass the reauthorization legislation out of the Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this year, and to include the legislation in the omnibus spending bill.

The Brownfields reauthorization legislation will extend federal Brownfields funding through 2023 and make important reforms to the program. The bill improves the flexibility of the program, authorizing multi-purpose grants, raising the limits for grants per site, and removing some funding caps in current law. It also allows EPA to reserve as much as $1.5 million in brownfields funding each year to assist small communities, tribes, and rural or disadvantaged areas. Grants could be used for training, research, and technical assistance. Additionally, it would require the EPA to consider the potential for renewable energy production when ranking applications for brownfield grants, to incentivize green energy projects.

It will also provide special recognition for waterfront Brownfields sites. In November at the Woodbridge waterfront, Pallone called on Congress to pass brownfields reauthorization that support projects like the waterfront park. When completed the park will include approximately 30 acres of nature area with restored wetlands/uplands, more than 7,000 feet of walking trails circling the restored wetlands, 800 feet of boardwalk overlooking natural wetland areas, a viewing platform at the Raritan River, bird blinds for observing wildlife, educational signs, gathering spaces with seating, and bus parking.

“The Brownfields program has been an incredibly important tool for protecting public health and spurring economic growth in New Jersey and throughout the country,” said Pallone. “The Brownfields program is proof that having a strong economy and protecting the environment is not an ‘either-or’ issue. We can have both.”

The Brownfields program was created in 2002 by bipartisan legislation authored in the House by Pallone and the late Rep. Paul Gillmor of Ohio to assist communities with the cleanup of former industrial properties where redevelopment is complicated by the presence of environmental contamination. When the program was first authorized, there were an estimated 450,000 brownfields properties in the U.S. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than 59,000 brownfields sites have already been revitalized.

Since 2002, New Jersey has received over $34 million in Brownfields grants. The vast majority of these funds, approximately $29 million, were awarded for assessment and cleanup efforts. In his closing remarks, Congressman Pallone emphasized several projects in New Jersey that have benefited from the Brownfields program.

Pallone’s SANDy Act Passes the House in Omnibus Spending Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2018



WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed Pallone’s Sandy Act, which was included in the omnibus spending package and reauthorization of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). As the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone led bipartisan, bicameral negotiations that resulted in the FCC bill.

Pallone authored the SANDy Act, which helps ensure the resiliency of the nation’s communications networks during emergencies. The bill recognizes the critical role that wireline and mobile telephone, internet, radio and television broadcast, cable, and satellite services play during emergencies by providing priority access to otherwise restricted areas during emergencies like other utilities, to help them repair and maintain their communications equipment during disasters. It would also begin a process to provide 911 services over Wi-Fi hotspots during emergencies.

“With the passage of the SANDy Act today, we are one step closer to helping first responders, businesses and private citizens communicate during disasters,” said Pallone. “In New Jersey, we learned firsthand during Hurricane Sandy the importance of communications during an emergency. Broadcasters and cable providers give us the critical information we need to stay out of harm’s way. Making a call for help is difficult when the power is out, and when the cell towers are also down, it can be nearly impossible. We must do everything we can to be better prepared for the next time disaster strikes, and the SANDy Act will ensure that we are prepared.”

The FCC reauthorization bill also includes Pallone’s Viewer Protection Act, which would ensure no viewer loses signal as a result of the FCC’s incentive auction. The bill would ensure the necessary funds are available so that broadcasters can switch to new frequencies and ensure that viewers will keep their television signal. It also sets aside $50 million to educate TV viewers on how to access their local TV stations after the stations switch.

Parkland Student Calls Out Lawmakers In NRA-Style Ad

#WhatIf we could go to school without fearing for our lives? Join us on March 24th and visit https://t.co/SrCltJsrBH #NeverAgain pic.twitter.com/iXmCNFOrVj

— David Hogg (@davidhogg111) March 16, 2018

The History of St. Patrick's Day

From History.com

Distinguish St. Patrick's Day myths from reality and find out why this holiday is celebrated by millions of Irish people around the world.

Pallone Calls for Renewed Friendship with Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 16, 2018


Long Branch - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) made the following statement celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, calling for even stronger ties between the United States and Ireland. Congressman Pallone additionally marks the approaching 20th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

Congressman Pallone at the Belmar St. Patrick’s Day Parade

“I have the great honor of representing thousands of Irish-Americans in my congressional district. I know firsthand that their traditions and culture – shared by over 35 million Americans who trace their heritage to Ireland – lend so much vibrancy to all of our communities. As so many celebrate St. Patrick and their Irish heritage, it is now clearer than ever that his holiday is truly a symbol of the success of Irish-Americans in our nation. The Irish-American experience is a reminder of the role that immigration has played in our nation’s story and it should inform our opinions as we debate our immigration policies today.


“This year is especially important for the Republic of Ireland, for Northern Ireland, and for Irish-Americans as we near the 20th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in April. Even twenty years later, it cannot be overstated how important this historic agreement has been in creating a steady and lasting peace in Ireland. As a member of the Congressional Friends of Ireland Group, I continue to work with my colleagues to ensure the United States upholds its commitment to this agreement. This includes sending letters to the Trump administration urging it to appoint a Northern Ireland Special Envoy and to the Appropriations Committee requesting funding for critical programs dedicated to lasting Irish peace like the International Fund for Ireland.

“Ireland continues to be a beacon of democracy and prosperity in Europe and it is essential that the United States stands with its ally as we confront the 21st century. As Brexit negotiations continue to move forward, they will undoubtedly bring about challenges for the Emerald Isle, but it should be made clear that Americans will stand with it during this uncertain time.

“It is my hope that the U.S.-Irish relationship is not one just celebrated on St. Patrick’s Day, but one that we work to expand and build upon for many years ahead.”

Irish Philosophy: No Need to Worry

Middletown North Support Parkland Students

One month after the school shooting in Parkland, Florida, students of Middletown North High School and thousands of others from around the country, showed their support and solidarity for the victims of Parkland's Marjory Stonemason Douglas High School by walking out of class yesterday.

Students gathered on the MNHS football field at 10 am and observed a 17 minute moment of silence in honor of the 17 people killed in last months shooting.

I'm not sure who took the pictures below, they are making the rounds on various social media pages. I believe the bottom was taken by North student, Spencer Bennett via drone camera.

Our Middletown students are amazing and our heart are with all of their's, honoring those who lost their lives. We see you, hear you and support all of you.

On Saturday, March 24th, we can all show our support by attending the “March for Our Lives” in Red Bank.

Middletown Board of Education Meetings; 2/20/18 & 2/28/18

I'm not going to lie, I've been trying to get through these videos for quite awhile. But, with 7 hours of video to watch, I've given up. I hope that some of you have better luck.

BOE Voting Meeting - 2/28/18



BOE Workshop Meeting - 2/20/18


To view the Agendas for these meeting you can click >>>> HERE

If you'd like to get caught up by reading the latest Minutes from the 1/16/18 & 1/24/18 meetings, you can do so >>>> HERE

March 5, 2018 Middletown Township Committee Meeting

At the March 5th meeting of the Middletown Township Committee, ordinances were adopted to establish a no knock registry and to establish a CAP Bank. Also An ordinance was introduced to acquire property on Compton St. by purchase or by eminent domain.

Items up for discussion included upgrades to the McLeod-Rice House, improvements to parks using Green Acres Funds including adding cameras to many of the parks to monitor for vandalism and the sale of excess leaf compost by auction.




As always you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Pallone, Students, and Advocates Call for Action to Reduce Gun Violence & Make our Schools Safe

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 5, 2018




Long Branch, N.J. – Today at Asbury Park High School, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) met with students, administration and advocates to discuss the gun violence epidemic facing our communities every day. According to the Center for Disease Control, New Jersey had 475 firearm deaths in 2015. Just last week, 10-year old Yovanni Banos-Merino was tragically shot outside his home in Asbury Park. The discussion took place as young people throughout the country have demanded change after the tragic shooting in Parkland, FL.

“We cannot accept it as normal when a 10 year old is shot and killed outside his home,” said Pallone. “We cannot accept it as normal that students throughout New Jersey must go to school afraid.”

“I have been inspired by the millions of Americans, many of them young people, who are now calling for action to bring about common sense solutions to reduce gun violence,” said Pallone. “We cannot allow this moment to pass without enacting change and your voice is essential to ensuring that Congress does not look the other way. I want you to know that I will do everything within my power to enact legislation to combat the gun violence epidemic facing our nation.”

Congressman Pauline supports numerous common sense solutions to reduce gun violence and help keep our children safe.

They include:

· An assault weapons ban, which will ban weapons of war like the AR-15, which has been used in mass shootings in places like Las Vegas, Aurora, Newtown, & Parkland.
· Increasing penalties for “straw purchasers” who illegally purchase firearms with the intent to sell or gift them to individuals who should not have them.
· Regulating the sale of firearms at gun shows and online, requiring a background check on all purchases (currently not required by many states).
· Banning high capacity magazines.
· Regulating the online sale of ammunition, conversion kits (to turn into military-style rifles), and large capacity ammunition feeding devices.
· Allowing the CDC and other government agencies to use federal dollars to research gun violence and gun violence prevention – which the gun lobby & @GOP has blocked for more than 20 years.

Middletown Democrats "Breakfast for Dinner" 3/23/18

"Breakfast for Dinner"

$10 per person

Kids 6 and under eat free.

Friday, March 23, 2018

5 PM – 8 PM

American Legion Hall

860 Route 36, Leonardo, NJ

Pancakes and Pajamas!

Kids, feel free to wear your pj’s!

RVSP @ MiddletownDems@gmail.com

Make checks payable to:

“Middletown Democrats”

** Dinner includes pancakes, sausage, hash browns, orange juice, and tea or coffee. (Gluten-free option available.)
** Fun for the kids also includes crayons for tablecloth coloring, bean bag toss, party favors, and more!
** Adults, join the fun by wearing your most festive “Evening” attire! Door Prizes awarded!