Volunteer Concerns About Plan To Consolidate Middletown First Aid Squads And Potential Shift To Paid First Responders

I received an email recently from a Middletown First Responder, who is concerned about a plan between Township and First Aid officials, which will consolidate the town’s 5 Independent First Aid Squads (Fairview, Middletown, Port Monmouth, Leonardo and Lincroft) from 5 down to 3. This person, due to their current involvement in one of these squads, has asked me to keep their identity to myself so as not to result in any personal repercussion from the leaders of their current squad or ridicule from township officials. I assured this person that I would and I am passing on their concerns after I reached out to a few people, which might be able to shed more light onto this person’s concern.

Here’s a snippet of what was in the email I received:

“Mr. Fiore wants these 5 squads to “consolidate” down to 3 regionalize buildings operating as one entity. The issue in this is the Bayshore squads will be the ones closing. Lincroft and Fairview will stay operating as usual and Middletown, Port Monmouth, and Leonardo will merge into one squad at a central location. So now volunteers will have a longer distance to travel to their squad buildings to pick up the ambulance and also the ambulance will have a longer response time to certain Northside neighborhoods.

There are many other issues to lesser affect; such as time pride and tradition of each individual squad the oldest dating back to 1933. There are also issues that each individual squad has their own tax-exempt number and bank accounts. They all own their own buildings and vehicles.

Mr. Fiore has told the EMS department that his plan for this consolidation will be in place by the end of the year…”

After reading this, I understand the concern. After all, I happen to live on the north side of town and could be adversely affected by such a change if response time is delayed due to the location of the newly consolidated squads. Available first responders, who live close to their squads, will have to travel to the new location and may not be able to do so in a timely manner, delaying responses.

What I found after reaching out to others for some background, was indeed eye opening.

A plan for the consolidation of Middletown’s First Aid squads go back a long time; possibly as far back as the 1980’s but until recently, discussions have never advanced much past the talking stages. I also confirmed with others, the plan is indeed to consolidate the Leonardo, Middletown and Port Monmouth First Aid Squads into one unit, while leaving Fairview and Lincroft untouched. So while Tony Fiore may be pushing this, by no means was it his initial idea; Squad leadership has been thinking about this for a long time and appears to approve of it. This doesn’t seem to be the case however with rank and file volunteer members, I was told.

Many of the rank and file first aiders are longtime volunteers, with 10 or more years of service (there are some that have been on the job for over 20) that vehemently disagree with the direction the squad leadership is moving. These first aiders take great pride in their volunteerism and knowledge that they are helping the communities they live in. They don’t think this consolidation is a good idea because moral has been effected and it’s bad for the local communities that the squads service. They feel like they are being phased out by the powers that be, in favor of paid first responders. I was told that if the consolidation happens, there are some who feel that they will just walk away after already putting in their time.

So why would the Middletown First Aid Squads consolidate like this if so many of the general members disagree with the idea? That seems to be a complex question with a complex, multi-layered answer.

The main reason sighted for the consolidation was manpower. The number of EMS volunteers has been dwindling over the years and it’s been hard to cover weekday hours with volunteers.  As a result of the lack ofavailable daytime volunteers (I’ve been told that the nightshift and weekends are adequately staffed, near 98% staffed at Middletown), Middletown has contracted with Middletown Emergency Medical Service (MEMS), a, “non-profit organization formed by the five volunteer First Aid Squads of Middletown Township and will be the primary organization dispatched to respond to EMS calls during its hours of operation on weekdays….”. It should be stated that MEMS is a “paid” service (just as MONOC Paramedics); MEMS, will bill your insurance company for any services rendered while on a call, including transportation to the hospital via ambulance. Whereas, if one of the current 5 First Aid Squads respond, there is no charge I’m told.  

It’s been theorized by those I’ve reached out to, the move to MEMS was the first step in eliminating the all the volunteer members of the First Aid Squads in favor of a full time paid service, that costs the Township of Middletown nothing to support. Which would appear to be a big reason why Tony Fiore and some others, would support and push for the consolidation of the squads.

I am not sure if consolidating First Aid Squads is a good idea. It will no doubt lead to some delays in response time. And if the plan and ultimate goal is to eliminate the volunteers and replace those with a full-time, paid response service, then that opens up a whole other can of worms for the volunteers and residents alike. And I haven’t even touched on the original emailers concern regarding the assets of each Squad and what would happen to them.

This is definitely something to keep an eye on in the coming months but to avoid all this, what is really needed is for more people to volunteer and join their local First Aid Squad.

January 3, 2016 Middletown Township Committee Reorganization Meeting

Yesterday Middletown held it annual reorganization meeting at Town Hall.  At the meeting  the Committee selected a Gerry Scharfenberger to be its new Mayor and Tony Fiore  Deputy Mayor.

Also taking place was the swearing of numerous volunteer members of various  boards and commissions (although many were not in attendance), as well as, new Fire and EMS officers.

Stephanie Murray's outgoing mayor's addres  @ 19:52 -31:05
Gerry Scharfenberger's selection as Mayor and swearing -in @  32:22 - 34:21
Tony Fiore's selection as Deputy-Mayor and swearing-in @ 35:35 - 37:41

After the swearing in ceremonies both the mayor and deputy-mayor gave there in-coming comments, which was followed by the swearing of numerous volunteer members of various  boards and commissions (although many were not in attendance), as well as, new Fire and EMS officers.

Brief Committee Comments can be seen @ 1:47:21 - 1:50:19

There were no Public Comments

I'll post the agenda when it becomes available

Bayshore Watershed Council: Help Needed to Install Osprey Platforms Sunday, March 29

Greetings all,

The Bayshore Watershed Council is seeking volunteers to help repair and install new osprey platforms in the Borough of Union Beach on Sunday, March 29, 2015. We will meet at 9am in the gravel parking lot at the western end of Front Street.

Date: Sunday, March 29, 2015
Time: 9:00am
Meeting Location: Gravel parking at the western end of Front Street in Union Beach, NJ

We need at least 10 to 15 volunteers to help carry nesting platforms, carry tools, dig holes, or take pictures and video. Please bring knee boots, hip or chest waders to wear and a pair of work gloves. Please bring a post-hole digger, shovels, and rope.

Heavy rain or snow will cancel.

If you would like to help, please RSVP at the bayshorewatershed@comcast.net or just show up.

Ospreys are returning and in need of nesting platforms. Nesting platforms are critical for attracting Ospreys into new areas to spread out the distribution so they're not all concentrated in one part of the state.

These majestic raptors with their distinctive stick-built nests on nesting platforms depend on a healthy and abundant food supply. Since their diet consists primarily of fish, Osprey activities in the Bayshore region provide a good indication of water quality and the general health of Raritan Bay & Sandy Hook Bay.

So far, the Bayshore Watershed Council has had great luck with installing Osprey platforms. Nearly all platforms have been active and have produced young. New sites will hopefully provide Ospreys the best chance for successfully raising young downstream from NY City.

Fiore's Belligerence Really show's How Much He Loves Middletown

If it isn't eye-rolling or an exasperated sigh from the dais, Middletown's Tony Fiore has many other ways of showing his belligerence towards those who disagree with him. He's very often combatant, he constantly talks down to people and berates them when they stand at the podium at Township Committee meetings. He revels in his smugness and  pseudo authority.

In the clip below, instead of appointing someone that is qualified to hold a volunteer position, Tony Fiore would rather appoint someone that was more likely to vote for him.

With this mentality, the one that suffers is our town. This shows just how much he loves Middletown.

Police Auxiliary Accepting New Applications

From Middletown Alerts:

The Middletown Township Police Auxiliary is accepting applications for new members through November 2014. The township's Auxiliary Officers are highly-trained volunteers who serve the community in a variety of police-related tasks. Meetings and training are held on a regular basis.

Volunteers Needed For Comptons Creek Clean-Up Sunday 10am

Please, your help is needed to clean up the Bayshore region from the mess that construction crews post-Super-storm Sandy leave around and from ignorant people. We really need your help!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR CLEAN-UP NEAR COMPTONS CREEK

SUNDAY, September 21, 2014
10am to 12pm

The Bayshore Watershed Council & NY-NJ Baykeeper are having a cleanup of Compton's Creek wetlands, located along Church Street, near the old fish factory in the Belford section of Middletown Township.

Meeting Location: On-street parking along Church, located in between Port Monmouth Road and Broadway in the Belford section of Middletown Township, zip code 07718. The wetlands and creek will be located on either side of the road..

Time: 10am to 12pm
Be part of the solution to clean up the Bayshore and restore the shore!

Come with friends, family and lots of energy! Wear long pants, sturdy shoes, and gloves. Bring boots or waders. Join us as we restore the health of our creeks and waterways. Join in the effort to protect our environment by helping us remove litter from our beaches, creeks, and wetlands; thereby reducing the harmful impact caused by both litter and urban runoff and enhancing the natural beauty of our watershed.

Middletown 350 Brick Fundraiser: Volunteers Pave the Way for Arts Programming

For Immediate Release:


50th ANNIVERSARY BRICK FUNDRAISER LAUNCHES WITH PERSONAL MESSAGES OF SUPPORT FROM MIDDLETOWN ARTS CENTER VOLUNTEERS

CJ Marsini Performing (Credit: Tammy Marsini)

Middletown, N.J. (May 19, 2014) – The Middletown Arts Council is excited to launch a brick campaign to celebrate Middletown’s 350th Anniversary and raise funds for arts programming. A 50-year Time Capsule will be buried on the lawn at the Middletown Arts Center, surrounded by an “Anniversary Plaza” designed with personalized bricks. Donors who purchase a brick will have their special message be part of this beautiful plaza for years to come and also will help the Middletown Arts Council continue its mission of bringing enriching arts programming to the community.

The Arts Center’s Executive Director Maggie O’Brien has been thrilled to receive donations of bricks from several of her volunteers. “These are individuals who have donated their time and now their dollars to express their appreciation for the organization,” said O’Brien. “It’s touching to read their messages and realize just how much the Arts Center means to them. It’s also wonderful to see members of the community express themselves in these bricks.”

Nineteen-year-old CJ Marsini of Middletown stepped up with a brick donation. Marsini performed in the Arts Council’s first Talent Show at the age of seven. He has grown up on the Middletown Arts Center’s stage and has volunteered at the MAC in numerous capacities from performer to summer camp counselor. His mother, photographer Tammy Marsini, serves on the Board of the non-profit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council, which operates the Arts Center.

"I am so proud of CJ for everything he has accomplished and all that’s in store for him in the future," says Tammy. "The first time he performed in the Art Center's Talent Show he was very shy. Through the years, he continued to perform at the MAC and each time his confidence grew. I am grateful to Maggie and her team for always providing a fun, welcoming environment and for providing CJ with many performance opportunities to hone his craft. He considers the MAC his home away from home.” CJ will be leaving this fall to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston. “It’s been an honor to see CJ grow into such a talented musician and wonderful young man,” says O’Brien. “Like so many children in our community, the arts played an important role in his life. When we nurture our children with arts experiences, they are equipped to succeed.”

To Kathy Rauffer and her late husband, Walt Rauffer, a pioneer in television broadcasting and engineering, the Middletown Arts Center meant more to them than just bricks and mortar. Walt donated his expertise and time to create the Art Center’s state-of-the-art theater sound and lighting system and worked the equipment for performances. The Rauffer Family purchased a brick in his honor.

“Walt started volunteering in 2007. He felt the organization was truly community focused and he loved the diversity there,” says Kathy. “With so many threats to the arts, Walt wanted others to see the value the Arts Center offered, and he praised its value every chance he had. He wanted people to embrace it, and get behind everything it offered.”

Walt was Technical Director for the Children’s Television Network’s Sesame Street, The Electric Company, and many other commercial sets. He worked with stars like Big Bird, Jim Henson and the Muppets, Mr. Rodgers and Bill Cosby. Highlights from Walt’s career include the creation of the first mobile news truck, the creation of Sesame Street’s first tape room at its 81st Street Theater set, and a 1978 Emmy Win for “Christmas Eve on Sesame Street.” According to Kathy, “Walt told me that when he graduated from RCA Institute and told his father he was getting a job in television, his father said “Why don’t you get a job in something that will last?” Walt just knew when something felt right and had the potential to grow and take off. That’s the way he felt about the Middletown Arts Center –he knew it would succeed. ”

The Arts Center relies on donor contributions to maintain its affordable, year-round arts and cultural programs. In 2013, the MAC boasted over 60,000 visits from area residents of all ages and abilities. Those interested in purchasing a brick can download an order form at www.middletownarts.org or visit the Arts Center.

The public is invited to the Time Capsule Celebration on June 21. This free, family friendly event will feature a parade, the burying of the Time Capsule, entertainment and more! Brick donors will be recognized at this event and the “Anniversary Plaza” will be dedicated later in the year.

The Earth is our playground; Middletown is our home. On Saturday, April 26, 2014

From Middletown Alerts:


Head over to Poricy Park for a morning of fun, games, and education as we kick off the Township's Grazing Goats project! In order to go back to the simpler and more eco-friendly times, we will now be using goats as our biological lawn mowers! A small goat pen, separate from the grazing area, will be featured at Earth Day to give visitors the opportunity to personally interact with the goats, learn about their habits, and most importantly educate visitors about the problem of invasive plants and benefits of native vegetation.

The Township's Grazing Goats project is made possible by a Sustainable Jersey $10,000 Small Grant. The goats will work in teams within a double-fenced, 2-acre area at Poricy Park to remove invasive vegetation. They will be hard at work, grazing over the subject area during the 2014 Spring and Summer. Volunteers will maintain their daily water supply while the farmer will provide a safe environment for the goats and park users.

Invasive plants and species kill the native plants that create vegetative diversity within Middletown’s beautiful parks. With the help of our goat friends, the invasive plants and species will flee our beautifully diverse home.

Other events for the day include a “Touch-a-Truck” display of a variety of Public Works vehicles including our brand new CNG truck, displays by Clean Communities, the Middletown Environmental Commission, the Middletown Green Team, an informative hike by Poricy Park, and crafts for the kids! So come and join us for a day of fun from 10:30 am to 1:30 PM at Poricy Park Conservancy, 345 Oak Hill Rd, Red Bank (GPS)

January 5, 2013 Middletown Township Committee Reorganization Meeting

The Township Committee selected Committeewoman Murray to be Mayor this year. Committeeman Settembrino was selected to be Deputy Mayor. A new police officer was sworn in, as were a new Middletown Police Officer, Fire Chief and the Assistance Chiefs. The agenda and resolutions containing the appointments of professionals and volunteers can be viewed... Here

Organization Day Set for Jan 5, 11 am

From Middletown Alerts:

The Township Committee will hold Middletown’s annual Organization Day meeting at 11:00 am on Sunday, January 5, 2014 at Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway.

On the agenda will be the swearing in of the 2014 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 Gerard P. Scharfenberger, PhD, is serving as Mayor this year, and will accept the oath of office to serve his fourth consecutive term on the Township Committee.

Committeeman Kevin M Settembrino, who was elected to the Township Committee in 2010, will accept the oath of office to serve his second consecutive term on the governing body. The term of office 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.

President Obama's Weekly Address 11/28/13: Wishing the American People a Happy Thanksgiving

Washington D.C. - In his weekly address, President Obama gave thanks to all the men and women defending our freedom and acknowledged their sacrifice might mean they can’t spend the holidays with their families. The President also recognized that as Americans, we gather together this Thanksgiving to lift up those who need a helping hand, letting us move forward as a country and lead us to a brighter tomorrow.

Boards, Committees, and Commissions Membership Applications Due

Well it's that time of year again, the Middletown Township Committee is looking for volunteers to fill seats on various Township boards and commissions. If your interested in volunteering to serving on one of them then I would encourage you to submit an application.

Be warned however, the odds of getting appointed aren't good. It seems that only qualified township residents (make that non-Democrats or those that may be affiliated with them) gain appointments to the various board and commission openings. But hay, at least they can't say you weren't appointed because you didn't apply, a tired excuse that so many have heard in the past.

Here is a list of the boards and commissions that are in need of members and below is a link to the Township's website.  Scroll to the bottom of the page for a link to the board membership application.

Regardless of affiliations, if you're lucky enough to be serving or to be appointed to one of these boards, I commend you for your service to the community:

Bayshore Village Senior Citizen Housing Corporation
Clean Communities Advisory Committee
Community Affairs Council
Economic Development Committee
Environmental Commission
Green Team Advisory Board
Historic Preservation Commission
Human Rights Commission
Joint Shared Services and Consolidation Advisory Committee
Landmarks Commission
Library Board
Local Assistance Board
Lincroft Senior Citizen Housing Corporation
Middletown Housing Authority
Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse
Open Space Preservation Committee
Planning Board
Recreation Advisory Board
Safety Council
Sewerage Authority
Veterans Affairs
Volunteer Corps
Zoning Board of Adjustment

http://www.middletownnj.org/content/bnc.html

Middletown Day Volunteers Needed

From Middletown Alerts:

Middletown Day will be held on Saturday, September 28 from noon to 6 at Croydon Hall rain or shine. It takes many volunteers to make the day a success. Individuals as well as civic, fraternal, community, and school organizations are welcome and encouraged to participate. Certificates documenting community service hours are issued. Please send an email to mtownvolunteer@middletownnj.org if you or your group can lend a hand.

President Obama's Weekly Address 4/20/13: America Stands with the City of Boston

WASHINGTON, DC— In his weekly address, President Obama spoke to the American people about the act of terror at the Boston Marathon that wounded dozens and killed three innocent people on Monday, and said that through it all, Boston’s spirit remains undaunted and Americans have proven they refuse to be terrorized. This past week, first responders, race volunteers, doctors and nurses, and the good people of Boston joined together to show the world how Americans respond to evil: with resilience and resolve, and without fear. And that’s the way Boston and America will move forward together.

Thank You Message From Vin Gopal

My fellow Democrat:

Last night, our slate won with more than 70% of the total vote. Over 600 county committee members voted - a turnout higher than the Republican convention. I want to thank Marlboro Councilman Frank LaRocca and Mayor Jon Hornik and their entire team for running a spirited campaign. As a result of a contested race, our party is stronger and united for November.

Vin Gopal

I won this election because of the hard work of countless supporters across this county who worked tirelessly for our team. I want to give special thanks to our team of mayors and former freeholders who stood with us at every twist and every turn, all of whom endorsed me the day I announced. Every time we needed their help, to sign an endorsement letter or speak on our behalf, they stood up for us. Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini, Asbury Park Mayor Ed Johnson, Belmar Mayor Matt Doherty, Bradley Beach Mayor Julie Shreck, Lake Como Mayor Mike Ryan, Neptune Mayor Randy Bishop, Spring Lake Mayor Jennifer Naughton and former Freeholders John D'Amico and Amy Mallet - thank you for your unwavering support. I want to also thank former freeholder candidates Mike Beson, Janice Venables and Sean Byrnes for standing with our campaign from the get-go. Of equal importance, I want to thank the Democratic municipal chairs, countless elected officials and party leaders across this county who stood with us every step of the way. There are too many to name but you know who you are. I also want to thank our brothers and sisters in organized labor who helped get the vote out. My neighboring chairman, Ocean County's Democratic Leader Wyatt Earp, also deserves very special recognition for his early and strong endorsement giving our campaign a big boost. Our campaign manager, Asbury Park Democratic Party Municipal Chairman Giuseppe 'Joe' Grillo and our political consultant Mitch Seim ran a flawless campaign and they will do a great job leading the Monmouth County Democrats in the upcoming years.

Most importantly - I want to thank you - the Democratic County Committee - for standing with our team in this race. I will be calling many of you in the upcoming weeks to personally thank you and I hope to see many of you at our thank you party. This will be a joint effort and the work begins today to challenge the Republicans vote by vote, block by block, precinct by precinct, town by town across this county.

Since 1986, Allen Falk has served as Parliamentarian for the Monmouth County Democrats under the leadership of Chairman Scudiery. I have asked him to remain in that role on our executive committee and he has accepted. I want to thank Allen for accepting and continuing his decades of dedication to the Democratic Party.

Earlier today - our state's Democratic leaders - Chairman Wisniewski, Speaker Oliver, Senate President Sweeney as well as the offices of Senators Menendez and Lautenberg pledged their full support for our new team. I told them that the Monmouth County Democrats are united and ready to get to work.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for standing with our team. As always, you can always reach me on my cell phone at 732-299-5625. In the next few weeks, we will be announcing a comprehensive, aggressive agenda to elect Democrats at every level of government in Monmouth County.

I hope to see you at our 'Thank You' party.

Democratically yours,

Vin Gopal
Monmouth County Democratic Chairman

Mtown News Flash 3-9-12

DWI Saturation Patrols on St. Pat’s Day 

The Bayshore Task Force announces that that the Driving While Intoxicated Saturation Patrol would be patrolling on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2012. The patrols will seek those who drive under the influence.  As in the past, officers will be deployed to curtail the incidents of motor vehicle crashes and injuries.   Read more

Brush Collection Begins March 19

Middletown Township’s 2012 Curbside Brush Collection will begin in Zones A & B on March 19, followed by Zones C & D on March 26; Zones E & G on April 2; Zones J & L on April 16, Zones I & K on April 23; and Zones F & H on April 30.

Please don’t place material at the curb earlier than seven days before a zone’s start date as doing so creates a hazard for pedestrians and drivers.  Leaves, tree stumps, lumber, plywood, fence posts, railroad ties, or garbage will not be collected, said Public Works Director Ted E. Maloney.

Leaves will not be collected until Fall 2012. 


Residents or their landscapers can bring leaves to the Recycling Center at 52 Kanes Lane until June 1^st.  Brush is accepted year-round, he said.  

Also, do not put brush curbside after a zone has been collected. Violators will be charged up to $750 for a separate, individual collection.  Visit www.middletownnj.org/collection for collection updates. Call 732-615-2008 for more information.

2011 Property Tax Reimbursement Applications


The Division of Taxation has begun mailing of property tax reimbursement (PTR) applications for 2011.  Members of the public who need assistance should be referred to the Property Tax Reimbursement Hotline (1-800-882-6597).

Election Days Schedule Change

School Board Election Moved to NovemberThe Township of Middletown in support of the Middletown Board of Education has agreed to move the School Board Election to the General Election in November. Beginning this year the Board of Education, authorized by Senate Bill 3148, will hold their Election on the Board Members on the first Tuesday, after the first Monday of November instead of April.  Voters will now be able to vote on the members for the School Board while voting on their State, Federal and Local Officials in the Township. The Board of Education also believes this will allow for increased participation and foster a positive interest in our Public Schools.

The Middletown Board of Education also believes that the financial interest of the taxpayers is safeguarded by the States imposed tax levy cap. Moving this Election to November would not require the submission of the school budget to voters so long as the budget is in conformance with this 2% property tax levy cap.  The election will be moved to November for at minimum four years.

Volunteers Needed for Domestic Violence Response Team

Middletown Township Police Department is currently recruiting volunteers to serve on the Middletown Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT). In affiliation with 180 Turning Lives Around (180), and with the assistance of the response team volunteers, Middletown Township Police Department continues to make available this service to victims of domestic violence. Applications are available now and interviews will begin shortly.

The volunteer advocates with 180’s DVRT program are civilian members of the community who work in collaboration with the police to provide crisis intervention and safety planning to victims of domestic violence at police headquarters.  The specially-trained advocates also discuss with the victim their legal rights in regard to obtaining a Temporary Restraining Order. The volunteer advocates help to empower victims to make informed-decisions about their own lives. The identities of the DVRT volunteers are kept anonymous. The 40-hour intensive, mandatory training course will be provided to successful applicants at no cost. 180 will be conducting the four-week training course from April 16^th–May 9th, Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday evenings, 6-9:30pm, in the courtroom at Hazlet Township Police Headquarters, 255 Middle Road. Prior knowledge of domestic violence is not required. The services of the Middletown Domestic Violence Response Team are available to victims, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at Middletown Township Police Headquarters, 1 Kings Highway, Middletown NJ 07748.

Basic requirements for volunteers to apply include that applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have access to transportation, possess a valid driver’s license, be willing to serve on an on-call shift basis, participate in an interview process, submit to background investigations and fingerprinting, and successfully complete the mandatory training.  Middletown Township Police Department and 180 Turning Lives Around are committed to culturally diverse teams to better serve the community. Bi-lingual capability is helpful.  Please contact SFC. William M. Colangelo, Middletown Township Police Department, DVRT DVLO, at 732 615-2041, to obtain an application or for additional information.

For over 35 years, 180 Turning Lives Around has been dedicated to providing shelter, counseling, support, prevention, education, and advocacy for residents of Monmouth County who are affected by domestic violence and sexual violence. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or sexual violence, you can call the 180 Turning Lives Around Confidential Hotline at 732 264-4111, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. For more information, visit www.180nj.org. In an emergency, dial 911.

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Mtown News Flash 7-29-11

Middletown Police Offer Child Safety Seat Checkpoint July 30

The Middletown Police Department Traffic Safety Bureau will offer a Child Safety Seat Checkpoint on Saturday, July 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Police Headquarters, 1 Kings Highway. Police officers trained as child passenger safety technicians will be available to assist motorists with proper child safety seat installation as well as proper positioning and harnessing of a child. Free and open to the public. No appointment necessary. In the event of severe weather, rain dates will be announced. The program is funded through a grant from the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety.  Call 732-615-2045 for more information.

 

Middletown Swim Club Half-Season Memberships On Sale Aug 1-15
There's still time to get in on the fun at the Middletown Swim and Tennis Club. Half-season bathhouse memberships will be available for sale August 1-15. Half-season passes are valid from August 1st through September 5. The cost is $150 for adults, $120 for children ages 4-17, $60 for children ages 2-3 and $120 for seniors. Those without a 2011 membership are eligible to purchase a half-season pass. No adjustments will be made to any 2011 memberships.

The Middletown Swim and Tennis Club is located at 214 Harmony Road. The club has over 10 acres of picnic and play areas. Amenities include 4 swimming pools, 5 tennis courts, bathhouses, a snack bar, volley ball, horseshoe and shuffleboard. Activities include family and teen fun nights, competitive swim teams, and sports tournaments. Call 732-671-5757.   Click here for application 

 

Mahoney Brothers Perform Thurs, Aug 4 at Normandy Park
Don't miss the final installment of the 2011 Summer Concert Series. The Mahoney Brothers will bring their impersonations of modern music greats to Middletown with their Jukebox Heroes Show on August 4 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Normandy Park. Comcast Cable is sponsoring the performance.  In the event of inclement weather the concerts are moved to Middletown South High School.  Limited on-site parking. For more information, contact Parks & Recreation Office Monday-Friday at 732-615-2260.

In addition, the Arts Center is offering a concert series for families every Thursday through August 25th.  Cool Kids Concerts with Miss Sherri, Thursdays, 4 - 5 p.m., are open to children ages 1-10 and their parents. The Middletown Arts Center and Miss Sherri, nationally known award winning Kindie Rocker/Singer, songwriter and founder of Honey Child Music Academy invite families to beat the heat and boogie down during the totally interactive shows. Admission is $5. Call 732-706-4100 for more information.

 

Grace Period Extended to August 24 for 3rd Quarter Tax Bill
Final 2011/Preliminary 2012 tax bills will be mailed Friday, July 29, 2011. The delay was to due by the State in certifying municipal state aid figures.  As a result of the delay, the grace period has been extended to August 24, 2011.  To avoid interest charges please make all payments by 4:00 PM, August 24, 2011. The last day for payment without interest is also printed on the tax bills.

 

Fall Brush Collection Suspended  
The fall brush collection is suspended. Brush can be brought to the Kanes Lane Recycling Center from Thursday through Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There is no charge for residents to drop off brush. The fee for landscapers is $10 per yard. Please note residents will be required to remove any piles of brush that are on the roadway adjacent to their property. The next brush collection will be scheduled for Spring 2012.

Fall Leaf Collection will be scheduled as usual. The leaf collection schedule will be announced in October.

 

Police Investigating Hit & Run
The Middletown Township Police Department is investigating a pedestrian hit and run crash that occurred on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at approximately 10 p.m.  The crash occurred on State Highway 35 South between Navesink River Road and Coopers Bridge. A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim, a 26 year old male from Red Bank was walking near the intersection of Highway 35 South and Lakeshore Drive when he was struck by a southbound vehicle. After striking the victim the vehicle continued south on Highway 35 into Red Bank. The victim was treated at the scene and transferred to Jersey Shore Trauma Center for treatment where he is currently listed in critical condition. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or can provide any information pertaining to the crash is asked to please contact the Traffic and Safety Bureau at 732-615-2043. The crash is being investigated by Traffic Officers Cpl. Cliff O'Hara and Patrolman Darrin Simon

 

A Community Connected...
to Each Other, to Healing, to Hope Juried Art Exhibition Honoring 9-11

All entries must be received on Wednesday,  August 17th or Thursday,  August, 18th, from 4-9 p.m.

The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) announces an invitation to artists (over 18) to submit work in all media to A Community Connected...to Each Other, to Healing, to Hope Juried Art Exhibition Honoring 9-11. Artwork content should convey patriotism, hope, connectedness or growth in the wake of the historical World Trade Center tragedy and not include graphic imagery. 

All entries must be received on Wednesday,  August 17th or Thursday,  August, 18th, from 4-9 p.m. to be selected by the Middletown Arts Center 9-11 Exhibit Committee.  An entry fee of $5 per submission is required to cover exhibition costs. Multiple submissions are encouraged. Works to be hung must be display ready, suitably framed and wired for hanging. Entries improperly prepared for hanging will not be accepted. Pick-up of unaccepted work will take place on Monday,  August 22nd from 4-9 p.m.  Artists are invited to submit a brief biography and promotional items along with their work.

All work must remain on display for the duration of the exhibition from Thursday,  August 25th through Sunday, September 25th and be picked up on Monday, September 26th or Tuesday, September 27th from 7 a.m-9 p.m.  Visit www.middletownarts.org or call 732-706-4100 for an entry form.

 

Volunteers Needed for Middletown Domestic Violence Response Team
Middletown Township Police Department is currently recruiting volunteers to serve on the Middletown Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT). In affiliation with 180 Turning Lives Around (180), and with the assistance of the response team volunteers, Middletown Township Police Department continues to make available this service to victims of domestic violence. Applications are available now and interviews will begin shortly.

The volunteer advocates with 180's DVRT program are civilian members of the community who work in collaboration with the police to provide crisis intervention and safety planning to victims of domestic violence at police headquarters.  The specially-trained advocates also discuss with the victim their legal rights in regard to obtaining a Temporary Restraining Order. The volunteer advocates help to empower victims to make decisions about their own lives. The identities of the DVRT volunteers are kept anonymous. The 40-hour intensive, mandatory training course will be provided to successful applicants at no cost. 180 will be conducting the next four-week training October 24th – November 16th, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, 6:00p-9:30p, in the courtroom at Tinton Falls Borough Hall, 556 Tinton Avenue. Prior knowledge of domestic violence is not required. The services of the Middletown Domestic Violence Response Team are available to victims, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week at Middletown Township Police Department headquarters, 1 Kings Highway, Middletown NJ 07748

Basic requirements for volunteers to apply include that applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have access to transportation, possess a valid driver's license, be willing to serve on an on-call shift basis, participate in an interview process, submit to background investigations and fingerprinting, and successfully complete the mandatory training.  Middletown Township Police Department and 180 Turning Lives Around are committed to culturally diverse teams to better serve the community. Bi-lingual capability is helpful.  Please contact Sgt. Bill Colangelo, Middletown Police DVRT DVLO, at 732 615-2041 or email wcolange@middletownnj.org to obtain an application or for additional information.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or sexual violence, you can call the 180 Turning Lives Around Confidential Hotline at 732 264-4111, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. For more information, visit www.180nj.org In an emergency, dial 911.

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Heard It In The Hallways....

This should come as no surprise to anyone after it was announce that 26 Middletown employees will be laid off due to budget woes on April 29th, I just heard that the Middletown Cultural Arts Center will be shutdown!

The "Jewel of Middletown" located next to the Middletown Train Station, will be closed when nearly all of the Middletown Parks and Recreation Department is laid off at the end of this week.

The only thing that will keep the building open and operational, will be if the Township can find enough qualified volunteers to keep the building opened and programs running. If not the building will be shutdown.

The shame of it all is that even though the building will be shutdown it won't save the township much money in utility charges. The heating and air conditioning will still need to be kept running 24/7 so that the floors in the building don't buckle due to the humidity issues that plague the building. It's been reported over the past few years that the utility bill for the Arts Center run upwards of $350K a year.

What a waste!

Freeholder Mallet Comments on Blog Posting, "...Limit Terms Of Volunteer Squashed By Opposition"

Monmouth County Freeholder Amy Mallett just so happens to be a reader of this blog as well as personal friend. She sent me the following comment via email yesterday after reading Saturday's post, Monmouth Freeholder Mallet's Proposal To Limit Terms Of Volunteer Squashed By Opposition. After expressing her gratitude for the post she added:

...Their opposition to this is clearly an insult to the people of Monmouth County. The allegiance here is to the many personal and political ties with those on these boards. Checking attendance records and closer scrunity at reappointments is not adequate. Many have served for decades, and some are appointed based on political patronage. Regardless, turnover is healthy and practiced for a reason by many professional boards.

What also needs to be addressed is that these autonomous agencies have spending authority, and are responsible for millions of tax dollars. They make the decisions on hiring as we recently read about with the recent library hire, spending such as choice of vendors, policy as in the parks commission and the list goes on and on....

Thank you Freeholder Mallet for your kind words towards myself and the blog in your email response. You're doing a great job representing the tax payers of Monmouth County by being a watchdog over those that would rather watch out for their political cronies rather than the tax payers they're suppose to represent.

Les Misbarack And A Thank You To The Campaign

We wanted to thank all the people who volunteer day in and day out for the Obama campaign. Your work is making a difference. Thank you everyone for your wonderful emails about "Les Misbarack." We hope you enjoy this video.

-NatHeadquartersObama-