knock, knock
who's there?
Monday, October 06, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Support Peter Richardson
I recently read the minutes from the Atlantic Highlands Recreation Committee’s January 8, 2008 meeting and saw that the committee will be putting together a formal job description and review for the Director and Assistant Director positions for the summer recreation program. I support the current Director, Peter Richardson. Our daughter has enjoyed the Atlantic Highland's summer rec program for the past two years. During this time she not only got to spend time and play with her friends but was also introduced to new games, sports, children and activities that she otherwise would not have been exposed to.
After recently talking to other parents in town about the program we discovered that much of what the program is today is due to Peter's efforts. We hope his leadership and accomplishments are recognized by the committee and that Peter is the person to direct this important program. My wife and I both look back fondly on our summers spent at summer camp and having gotten to know Peter over the past two years through summer rec, youth hockey and his employment at the local dining establishment, Bella's, we are confident that our daughter is being given the opportunity to create these same wonderful memories.
There's a Recreation Committee meeting tomorrow (Valentine's Day) at 8:00 pm. If you support Peter but can't make the meeting due to, uh, other committments, please email the Borough Administrator and show your support.
After recently talking to other parents in town about the program we discovered that much of what the program is today is due to Peter's efforts. We hope his leadership and accomplishments are recognized by the committee and that Peter is the person to direct this important program. My wife and I both look back fondly on our summers spent at summer camp and having gotten to know Peter over the past two years through summer rec, youth hockey and his employment at the local dining establishment, Bella's, we are confident that our daughter is being given the opportunity to create these same wonderful memories.
There's a Recreation Committee meeting tomorrow (Valentine's Day) at 8:00 pm. If you support Peter but can't make the meeting due to, uh, other committments, please email the Borough Administrator and show your support.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
The Bella's Beat, 12/07
12/7/07 Dave Oberacker from Seeking Homer boogied on down from Hoboken to jam at Bella's. Check back shortly for the next show date.
12/27/07 Carl Nolan said ta-ta to friends and family at a going away bash before he left for Kuwait. I said hello to my first taste of Johnnie Walker Blue. Follow Carl's adventures here.
Monday, January 07, 2008
AH Mayor Fred Rast Predicts Doom/Gloom for US
I'm still trying to process all of this.
Update, 1/15/08:
Below is the text of the speech given by AH Mayor Frederick J. Rast III at his swearing in ceremony on 1/1/08. In a, uh, nut shell, I find the speech ridiculous. In fact, there's really just too much ridiculousness for my brain to process. I trust Rast will provide his recommendation on how to fix Social Security at the next town Council meeting. As an avid hunter and not-so-avid fan of Baby Boomers (see below) I can only imagine what he might propose. If you were born between the years 1946 to 1964 you might want to consider relocating somewhere far away from Atlantic Highlands. Remember though that Rast is a private dick so he'll probably end up tracking you down anyway. And then hunting you for sport. Hippie-hunting season is officially open!
SPEECH 1 JAN 2008 AT
SWEARING IN OF FREDERICK J. RAST III
Today should be a very happy and joyous day for my running mates and me. However, as I stand here in front of my beloved family, close friends and fellow residents of Atlantic Highlands, I feel troubled and afraid of the future!
As I look into the beautiful faces of my three grandchildren, I wonder what is in store for them in the future? We live in an environment where so many of our USA citizens, continually do everything they can to detract from our country’s greatness. They constantly find fault in the USA and praise the rest of the world. They blame us, “The USA” for the world’s ills, when the truth is, that we as Americans do more for the rest of humanity, than any other nation.
The United States I grew up in, does not exist anymore! It started to decline in the 60’s, when people who believed more in their personal pleasures and free life style, made it fashionable to hold up Hollywood and Sports figures, as well as some foreign leaders, as their Heroes. They continually condemned and criticized our Military, Law Enforcement and Our Country as a whole. Unfortunately not all USA Detractors from that tragic point in History, changed as they got older! Many became members of our Government and some became Elected Officials. Many of them encourage our youth to continue to run down our nation. Many trained or at least set examples to their children, that the only thing important in life is to be rich and famous. They put their pleasures first, before their Country and Community. They look down on People who are religious, who are community volunteers and those who are of middle or lower income.
When I see the “Political Correct Crowd” making people uncomfortable who wish someone Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukah, it sickens me!
When groups such as “ACLU” push their twisted anti-American agenda into our society, I get outraged! I think it is time for people to realize that we are heading down a very steep, slippery, hill. If we don’t act now and don’t defy the “Political Correct Crowd” immediately, we are doomed as a nation!
In my opinion, every citizen should give back to his or her community as a volunteer, not for money or glory but for our survival!
When a small group complains just because a town may endorse or support a traditional Christian, Jewish, Muslim or any other religious event, we cannot “Bow” to their pressure! We must stand strong and say it is time for the majority to win, not the minority!
All good citizens are tolerant of others in every way. Giving someone a smile and wishing them a Happy Hanukah or Merry Christmas during a religious holiday cannot be wrong! It is an expression of love and well wishing from one person to another, even if its not that persons religious holiday.
Elected officials who are of the “Me First Mindset” disgust me when they make new laws just so they can get their names in the papers or their faces on TV. There are more senseless laws made just for personal recognition of lawmakers, than legitimate ones!
A great example is the law about using a handheld cell phone while driving. It is not a violation to put on make up, read, eat or tend to screaming children while driving. But it is to hold a cell phone.
Careless and Reckless driving violations relate to the actions of the driver, they have existed for well over 75 years. We needed no new law!
Today’s “Political Correct Extremists”, have taught people to blame anything but one’s own actions for their conduct!.
When a person takes a gun and kills people, it is not their fault, it is the gun manufacturers fault, for making the gun. Someone puts hot coffee between their legs while driving and gets burned, it is not their fault. It is the company who sold the hot coffee to them.
Global warming extremists within the last several weeks announced that they think there will be a great flood due to the Earth’s polar ice cap melting, possibly within 10 years! Some people are making large sums of money preaching doom and gloom, dealing with Environmental issues. They don’t mention however, that the Polar Ice caps on “Mars” are also melting at the same rate as the Earth’s. Why don’t they demand SUV’s stop being used on Mars or could it be the elliptical patterns of Orbit of the Earth, Mars and other planets are nearer the Sun at this point in time?
Another thing the “Global Warming Extremists” have said is that people of the Jewish faith, should not light candles on the menorah. In Australia they want to “genetically alter” cows, pigs and sheep so when they FLATULANTE there is no methane gas coming out, just like kangaroos. I wonder how much taxpayer’s money was given to capture kangaroo FLATULANCE, to check for methane?
Also one of these groups said if you have over 2 kids, there should be a “carbon dioxide tax” levied upon the parents, to cover for the additional carbon dioxide that the kids will expel over their lifetime. Of course we as humans expel Carbon Dioxide as part of our breathing process.
Please someone get a Big Net!
We all agree that we should protect the environment, man should not pollute and we should do everything we can to save our Natural resources.
The clear thinking majority, has to speak up and the madness must stop!
This is the real reason I ran for mayor. I want to bring back common sense to government. I have no desire to get publicity, I will never be on an ego trip! I am Fred Rast, a local town boy, who was elected mayor. I don’t expect I will always make the right decisions, so you my fellow citizens, don’t expect it of me!
I guarantee that I am going to make some people unhappy about the way I provide leadership, as your mayor. I also pledge that I will accomplish things that have to be done! I will always, have the best interest of the majority of our people at the forefront of every decision I make, popular or unpopular!
I will not personally and will not stand for other elected officials, to micro-manage the operations of our town. The professionals we have, at all levels of our town’s operation, know better than I do, how to do their job. We as elected officials are here to make sure they do their job in an honest, economical and very town sensitive, manner!
We are now a Mayor and Council for all citizens, no longer representing a political party but representing all citizens. I hope all of you work with me and our council, give us time and we will keep our town solvent and a wonderful place to live.
Our town, unfortunately gained the reputation in recent years, as being one of the most unfriendly towns in the area. Unfriendly, towards Investors, Small Builders, Real Estate People, General Contractors and Homeowners trying to improve their property! Complaints range from extremely expensive permits, an over abundance of red tape, long delays and unreasonable thinking committees, who openly show their lack of willingness towards construction, expansion and improvements in our town!
Complaints about Board Members badgering and treating people as though they were criminals who appear before them have been occurring for years. I intend to make sure all members of committees, boards and utilities who have expressed attitudes unfriendly to people who come before them, based on their prejudices or preferences understand this will not be tolerated. Some individuals openly have spoken against projects and applications long before they even heard all the testimony and voted on applications. Members of Boards must have an open mind, be fair, honest, nonpartisan and never allow their personal preferences to prejudice their decisions.
The Council and I, will work very hard to make Atlantic Highlands a Destination place that will attract and keep businesses in our town, as well as bring customers to those businesses. We will do everything in our power to enhance First Ave and Home-based businesses, so that they can provide more local jobs, continue to pay taxes and provide services locally, so that our residents need not travel, to get life’s needs. Remember if commercial rateables are successful, it reduces the property taxes homeowners have to pay!
We will continue to work hard on the remediation of our sewer system, to stop infiltration of ground water. This will drop costs of processing sewerage, thus reducing our Sewer Rates.
We will insist on private clean up of contaminated property by owners or responsible parties in town!
We will ensure that all of our publicly owned parks are maintained and kept available for maximum use by our citizens.
We will work very hard to build a badly needed public library in our town, in the most economical way possible.
We will spend our tax dollars on necessary things that will protect and enhance the lives of all our citizens.
We will always respect and protect the rights of Private Property Owners, with a rare exception if the owners actions create a direct threat to their neighbors or if the owners actions, are in violation of our laws.
We are going to conduct a complete review of our ordinances, rules and regulations to update where necessary, to amend where needed so that everyone can understand them and to shorten the Bureaucratic delays such ordinances, rules, and regulations have been found to cause!
As I said earlier “In my opinion, every citizen should give back to his or her community as a volunteer, not for money or glory but for our survival”. Therefore I have created a Senior Citizen committee headed by two of our former mayors, who truly love our town, Mayor Helen Marchetti and Mayor Robert Schoeffling. They will co-chair this committee of volunteer Senior Citizens, over 65 years old, who will be asked to help us with projects needed by the Borough in an effort to keep our town’s expenses down. We will ask experienced, community loving seniors, to become directly involved in the operation of our town. The co-chairs will identify a cadre of seniors, who’s experience in various areas of expertise, can again be used for the benefit of our community. With their help, often we can save or reduce the cost of outside “experts” or professionals wherever possible. Thus saving all of us, Tax Dollars.
I have also created a new committee, headed by former Councilwoman Kim Spatola, to coordinate efforts towards the promotion of Atlantic Highlands through beautification projects, advertising projects and a cooperative effort between the Chamber of Commerce, Arts Council and other groups who have our community at heart!
I promise that I will openly explain to those citizens interested, every project that I will be implementing and/or supporting over my tenure as Mayor.
Atlantic Highlands must remain a town where anyone, of any race, creed, religion, national origin or personal beliefs, can walk our streets safely and unmolested. The only people who should fear our town’s streets, must be people who wish to do our citizens harm! Towards such goals I will be encouraging Public Safety projects as needed!
Thank you all for coming today, God Bless you, Your Families Our Town and Our Great Nation!
Update, 1/15/08:
Below is the text of the speech given by AH Mayor Frederick J. Rast III at his swearing in ceremony on 1/1/08. In a, uh, nut shell, I find the speech ridiculous. In fact, there's really just too much ridiculousness for my brain to process. I trust Rast will provide his recommendation on how to fix Social Security at the next town Council meeting. As an avid hunter and not-so-avid fan of Baby Boomers (see below) I can only imagine what he might propose. If you were born between the years 1946 to 1964 you might want to consider relocating somewhere far away from Atlantic Highlands. Remember though that Rast is a private dick so he'll probably end up tracking you down anyway. And then hunting you for sport. Hippie-hunting season is officially open!
SPEECH 1 JAN 2008 AT
SWEARING IN OF FREDERICK J. RAST III
Today should be a very happy and joyous day for my running mates and me. However, as I stand here in front of my beloved family, close friends and fellow residents of Atlantic Highlands, I feel troubled and afraid of the future!
As I look into the beautiful faces of my three grandchildren, I wonder what is in store for them in the future? We live in an environment where so many of our USA citizens, continually do everything they can to detract from our country’s greatness. They constantly find fault in the USA and praise the rest of the world. They blame us, “The USA” for the world’s ills, when the truth is, that we as Americans do more for the rest of humanity, than any other nation.
The United States I grew up in, does not exist anymore! It started to decline in the 60’s, when people who believed more in their personal pleasures and free life style, made it fashionable to hold up Hollywood and Sports figures, as well as some foreign leaders, as their Heroes. They continually condemned and criticized our Military, Law Enforcement and Our Country as a whole. Unfortunately not all USA Detractors from that tragic point in History, changed as they got older! Many became members of our Government and some became Elected Officials. Many of them encourage our youth to continue to run down our nation. Many trained or at least set examples to their children, that the only thing important in life is to be rich and famous. They put their pleasures first, before their Country and Community. They look down on People who are religious, who are community volunteers and those who are of middle or lower income.
When I see the “Political Correct Crowd” making people uncomfortable who wish someone Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukah, it sickens me!
When groups such as “ACLU” push their twisted anti-American agenda into our society, I get outraged! I think it is time for people to realize that we are heading down a very steep, slippery, hill. If we don’t act now and don’t defy the “Political Correct Crowd” immediately, we are doomed as a nation!
In my opinion, every citizen should give back to his or her community as a volunteer, not for money or glory but for our survival!
When a small group complains just because a town may endorse or support a traditional Christian, Jewish, Muslim or any other religious event, we cannot “Bow” to their pressure! We must stand strong and say it is time for the majority to win, not the minority!
All good citizens are tolerant of others in every way. Giving someone a smile and wishing them a Happy Hanukah or Merry Christmas during a religious holiday cannot be wrong! It is an expression of love and well wishing from one person to another, even if its not that persons religious holiday.
Elected officials who are of the “Me First Mindset” disgust me when they make new laws just so they can get their names in the papers or their faces on TV. There are more senseless laws made just for personal recognition of lawmakers, than legitimate ones!
A great example is the law about using a handheld cell phone while driving. It is not a violation to put on make up, read, eat or tend to screaming children while driving. But it is to hold a cell phone.
Careless and Reckless driving violations relate to the actions of the driver, they have existed for well over 75 years. We needed no new law!
Today’s “Political Correct Extremists”, have taught people to blame anything but one’s own actions for their conduct!.
When a person takes a gun and kills people, it is not their fault, it is the gun manufacturers fault, for making the gun. Someone puts hot coffee between their legs while driving and gets burned, it is not their fault. It is the company who sold the hot coffee to them.
Global warming extremists within the last several weeks announced that they think there will be a great flood due to the Earth’s polar ice cap melting, possibly within 10 years! Some people are making large sums of money preaching doom and gloom, dealing with Environmental issues. They don’t mention however, that the Polar Ice caps on “Mars” are also melting at the same rate as the Earth’s. Why don’t they demand SUV’s stop being used on Mars or could it be the elliptical patterns of Orbit of the Earth, Mars and other planets are nearer the Sun at this point in time?
Another thing the “Global Warming Extremists” have said is that people of the Jewish faith, should not light candles on the menorah. In Australia they want to “genetically alter” cows, pigs and sheep so when they FLATULANTE there is no methane gas coming out, just like kangaroos. I wonder how much taxpayer’s money was given to capture kangaroo FLATULANCE, to check for methane?
Also one of these groups said if you have over 2 kids, there should be a “carbon dioxide tax” levied upon the parents, to cover for the additional carbon dioxide that the kids will expel over their lifetime. Of course we as humans expel Carbon Dioxide as part of our breathing process.
Please someone get a Big Net!
We all agree that we should protect the environment, man should not pollute and we should do everything we can to save our Natural resources.
The clear thinking majority, has to speak up and the madness must stop!
This is the real reason I ran for mayor. I want to bring back common sense to government. I have no desire to get publicity, I will never be on an ego trip! I am Fred Rast, a local town boy, who was elected mayor. I don’t expect I will always make the right decisions, so you my fellow citizens, don’t expect it of me!
I guarantee that I am going to make some people unhappy about the way I provide leadership, as your mayor. I also pledge that I will accomplish things that have to be done! I will always, have the best interest of the majority of our people at the forefront of every decision I make, popular or unpopular!
I will not personally and will not stand for other elected officials, to micro-manage the operations of our town. The professionals we have, at all levels of our town’s operation, know better than I do, how to do their job. We as elected officials are here to make sure they do their job in an honest, economical and very town sensitive, manner!
We are now a Mayor and Council for all citizens, no longer representing a political party but representing all citizens. I hope all of you work with me and our council, give us time and we will keep our town solvent and a wonderful place to live.
Our town, unfortunately gained the reputation in recent years, as being one of the most unfriendly towns in the area. Unfriendly, towards Investors, Small Builders, Real Estate People, General Contractors and Homeowners trying to improve their property! Complaints range from extremely expensive permits, an over abundance of red tape, long delays and unreasonable thinking committees, who openly show their lack of willingness towards construction, expansion and improvements in our town!
Complaints about Board Members badgering and treating people as though they were criminals who appear before them have been occurring for years. I intend to make sure all members of committees, boards and utilities who have expressed attitudes unfriendly to people who come before them, based on their prejudices or preferences understand this will not be tolerated. Some individuals openly have spoken against projects and applications long before they even heard all the testimony and voted on applications. Members of Boards must have an open mind, be fair, honest, nonpartisan and never allow their personal preferences to prejudice their decisions.
The Council and I, will work very hard to make Atlantic Highlands a Destination place that will attract and keep businesses in our town, as well as bring customers to those businesses. We will do everything in our power to enhance First Ave and Home-based businesses, so that they can provide more local jobs, continue to pay taxes and provide services locally, so that our residents need not travel, to get life’s needs. Remember if commercial rateables are successful, it reduces the property taxes homeowners have to pay!
We will continue to work hard on the remediation of our sewer system, to stop infiltration of ground water. This will drop costs of processing sewerage, thus reducing our Sewer Rates.
We will insist on private clean up of contaminated property by owners or responsible parties in town!
We will ensure that all of our publicly owned parks are maintained and kept available for maximum use by our citizens.
We will work very hard to build a badly needed public library in our town, in the most economical way possible.
We will spend our tax dollars on necessary things that will protect and enhance the lives of all our citizens.
We will always respect and protect the rights of Private Property Owners, with a rare exception if the owners actions create a direct threat to their neighbors or if the owners actions, are in violation of our laws.
We are going to conduct a complete review of our ordinances, rules and regulations to update where necessary, to amend where needed so that everyone can understand them and to shorten the Bureaucratic delays such ordinances, rules, and regulations have been found to cause!
As I said earlier “In my opinion, every citizen should give back to his or her community as a volunteer, not for money or glory but for our survival”. Therefore I have created a Senior Citizen committee headed by two of our former mayors, who truly love our town, Mayor Helen Marchetti and Mayor Robert Schoeffling. They will co-chair this committee of volunteer Senior Citizens, over 65 years old, who will be asked to help us with projects needed by the Borough in an effort to keep our town’s expenses down. We will ask experienced, community loving seniors, to become directly involved in the operation of our town. The co-chairs will identify a cadre of seniors, who’s experience in various areas of expertise, can again be used for the benefit of our community. With their help, often we can save or reduce the cost of outside “experts” or professionals wherever possible. Thus saving all of us, Tax Dollars.
I have also created a new committee, headed by former Councilwoman Kim Spatola, to coordinate efforts towards the promotion of Atlantic Highlands through beautification projects, advertising projects and a cooperative effort between the Chamber of Commerce, Arts Council and other groups who have our community at heart!
I promise that I will openly explain to those citizens interested, every project that I will be implementing and/or supporting over my tenure as Mayor.
Atlantic Highlands must remain a town where anyone, of any race, creed, religion, national origin or personal beliefs, can walk our streets safely and unmolested. The only people who should fear our town’s streets, must be people who wish to do our citizens harm! Towards such goals I will be encouraging Public Safety projects as needed!
Thank you all for coming today, God Bless you, Your Families Our Town and Our Great Nation!
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Local Effort Being Made to Buy N.Y. Ferry Service Catamarans
Ed. note: some contents of the original Asbury Park Press article have been, uh, updated. The original article can be purchased here.
By MICHAEL L. DIAMOND
BUSINESS WRITER
Asbury Park Press
December 18, 2007
A Wall Street executive said Monday he is working with local investors to buy four high-speed catamarans used by SeaStreak America Inc. to ferry passengers from Monmouth County to New York.
The possible bid from a group led by Michael Gooch, a Rumson resident and chief executive officer of the brokerage service GFI Group Inc., could ease fears that the boats will be sold to Trinidad and Tobago as part of a bankruptcy reorganization.
"Myself and other investors are not really, frankly, interested in being ferry operators," Gooch said. "We're just interested in seeing a quality ferry service continue."
The move comes as the future of the ferry service remains in doubt. SeaStreak's parent company, Sea Containers Ltd. of Bermuda, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy more than a year ago after it became burdened by debt. Among the creditors are unnamed banks which own the high-speed boats and charter them to SeaStreak.
Reports surfaced last summer that Trinidad & Tobago was prepared to offer $30 million for the boats to begin ferry service in the Caribbean nation.
Some 2,000 people a day take the boats — 400-passenger vessels that travel more than 40 mph — from Highlands and Atlantic Highlands to Manhattan, and the possibility of losing the service has unnerved them. Commuters say the ferry ride gets them to New York in about half the time it would take if they drove or took the train. Many of them said it is a major reason they live in Monmouth County . They worry that replacement boats would be much slower.
Losing the boats "would be an absolute disaster," said Robert Picard, who takes the ferry each day to get from his Rumson home to his office in midtown Manhattan. "There are no boats around that could replace those four."
In addition to working with investors, Gooch said he has talked to a ferry operator about taking over the service and investing in it. He declined to name the operator. But he said he is close to making what he called a "preliminary, nonbinding bid."
Gooch said there is little to prevent the vessels from being sold to Trinidad and Tobago — or to any other buyer. So local legislators have asked government agencies to intervene if the vessels are sold to a foreign country — if only to give Gooch and his investment group more time.
U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J. asked the U.S. Maritime Administration to block the vessels' sale to a foreign country. But Shannon Russell, a spokeswoman for the agency, said, the agency only regulates the sale of U.S. vessels that weigh more than 1,000 gross tons, which is bigger than the SeaStreak boats."
There's nothing that the Maritime Administration can do to stop this sale if, in fact, it happens," Russell said. "It's not against the law. It's nothing that we regulate."
In New Jersey, state Sen. Joseph M. Kyrillos Jr., Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck and Assemblyman Sean Kean, all R-Monmouth, last week wrote Attorney General Anne Milgram and asked her to investigate legal grounds to block the vessels' sale to a foreign country.
Lee Moore, a spokesman for the Attorney General's Office, said attorneys are reviewing the letter.
Gooch said other hurdles remain. Namely, the local investment group won't pay more than what the boats are worth, making it unlikely that it would get involved in a bidding war that would make it a money-losing venture.
The group approached a sample of the ridership to survey their thoughts on potential new services to increase revenues. Services mentioned in the survey include additional food and beverage offerings such as pork roll, egg and cheese sandwiches for the morning commutes and selections of gourmet hot dogs, beers on tap from local brewers and single malt scotch tasting events on the afternoon and evening routes.
Vessel naming rights are currently being negotiated should the group move forward with the purchase. Fantasies, a gentlemen's club in Keyport, is considering sponsorship of the current SeaStreak New Jersey. Gooch said other local business being approached include McLoone's Restaurant Group and Ray Cantena Motors.
Willie Graber, a spokesperson for Fantasies' management would not disclose how much his clients have bid for the vessel's naming rights but joked that the sponsorship would be paid for with singles. "We're still negotiating so there's really nothing to comment on at this time. SeaStreak's clientele ride in the lap of luxury, we want to put our brand in their laps," Graber said.
Gooch summed up the group's mentality at this point, "individuals are willing to put up money to save the service, but not lose money. They want to know if they did invest, it would be professionally run and the economics make sense. We're trying to put that together."
By MICHAEL L. DIAMOND
BUSINESS WRITER
Asbury Park Press
December 18, 2007
A Wall Street executive said Monday he is working with local investors to buy four high-speed catamarans used by SeaStreak America Inc. to ferry passengers from Monmouth County to New York.
The possible bid from a group led by Michael Gooch, a Rumson resident and chief executive officer of the brokerage service GFI Group Inc., could ease fears that the boats will be sold to Trinidad and Tobago as part of a bankruptcy reorganization.
"Myself and other investors are not really, frankly, interested in being ferry operators," Gooch said. "We're just interested in seeing a quality ferry service continue."
The move comes as the future of the ferry service remains in doubt. SeaStreak's parent company, Sea Containers Ltd. of Bermuda, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy more than a year ago after it became burdened by debt. Among the creditors are unnamed banks which own the high-speed boats and charter them to SeaStreak.
Reports surfaced last summer that Trinidad & Tobago was prepared to offer $30 million for the boats to begin ferry service in the Caribbean nation.
Some 2,000 people a day take the boats — 400-passenger vessels that travel more than 40 mph — from Highlands and Atlantic Highlands to Manhattan, and the possibility of losing the service has unnerved them. Commuters say the ferry ride gets them to New York in about half the time it would take if they drove or took the train. Many of them said it is a major reason they live in Monmouth County . They worry that replacement boats would be much slower.
Losing the boats "would be an absolute disaster," said Robert Picard, who takes the ferry each day to get from his Rumson home to his office in midtown Manhattan. "There are no boats around that could replace those four."
In addition to working with investors, Gooch said he has talked to a ferry operator about taking over the service and investing in it. He declined to name the operator. But he said he is close to making what he called a "preliminary, nonbinding bid."
Gooch said there is little to prevent the vessels from being sold to Trinidad and Tobago — or to any other buyer. So local legislators have asked government agencies to intervene if the vessels are sold to a foreign country — if only to give Gooch and his investment group more time.
U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J. asked the U.S. Maritime Administration to block the vessels' sale to a foreign country. But Shannon Russell, a spokeswoman for the agency, said, the agency only regulates the sale of U.S. vessels that weigh more than 1,000 gross tons, which is bigger than the SeaStreak boats."
There's nothing that the Maritime Administration can do to stop this sale if, in fact, it happens," Russell said. "It's not against the law. It's nothing that we regulate."
In New Jersey, state Sen. Joseph M. Kyrillos Jr., Assemblywoman Jennifer Beck and Assemblyman Sean Kean, all R-Monmouth, last week wrote Attorney General Anne Milgram and asked her to investigate legal grounds to block the vessels' sale to a foreign country.
Lee Moore, a spokesman for the Attorney General's Office, said attorneys are reviewing the letter.
Gooch said other hurdles remain. Namely, the local investment group won't pay more than what the boats are worth, making it unlikely that it would get involved in a bidding war that would make it a money-losing venture.
The group approached a sample of the ridership to survey their thoughts on potential new services to increase revenues. Services mentioned in the survey include additional food and beverage offerings such as pork roll, egg and cheese sandwiches for the morning commutes and selections of gourmet hot dogs, beers on tap from local brewers and single malt scotch tasting events on the afternoon and evening routes.
Vessel naming rights are currently being negotiated should the group move forward with the purchase. Fantasies, a gentlemen's club in Keyport, is considering sponsorship of the current SeaStreak New Jersey. Gooch said other local business being approached include McLoone's Restaurant Group and Ray Cantena Motors.
Willie Graber, a spokesperson for Fantasies' management would not disclose how much his clients have bid for the vessel's naming rights but joked that the sponsorship would be paid for with singles. "We're still negotiating so there's really nothing to comment on at this time. SeaStreak's clientele ride in the lap of luxury, we want to put our brand in their laps," Graber said.
Gooch summed up the group's mentality at this point, "individuals are willing to put up money to save the service, but not lose money. They want to know if they did invest, it would be professionally run and the economics make sense. We're trying to put that together."
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Merry Chirstmas!
Happy Holidays everybody. Can anyone guess what my New Year's resolution will be?
(PS - Why did the town put up a Charlie Brown Christmas tree? Is it even 6 ft. tall? Way to spread the holiday cheer!)
(PS - Why did the town put up a Charlie Brown Christmas tree? Is it even 6 ft. tall? Way to spread the holiday cheer!)
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
For Posterity
Here are the Atlantic Highlands Republicans goals. Now that they have the council majority let's see if they can get them accomplished.
From www.ahgop.net
Our goals for the future:
1. Oppose high density development
2. Improve Harbor Waterfront Area for Recreation and Ratables without condemnation
3. Hire qualified and experienced professionals
4. Running the Borough like a business
5. Promote Atlantic Highlands and its business
6. Beautify First Avenue entrance
4. Oppose parking garage in harbor
5. Complete Bayshore Bike Trail
6. Aggressively explore Library Expansion
7. Additional Teen Programs for Recreation
8. Monitor NJNG Cleanup
9. Make Government more transparent
10. More grants to improve our Infrastructure
Republican Candidates have always run on a record of proven accomplishments. We promise to continue to make Atlantic Highlands a great place to live.
From www.ahgop.net
Our goals for the future:
1. Oppose high density development
2. Improve Harbor Waterfront Area for Recreation and Ratables without condemnation
3. Hire qualified and experienced professionals
4. Running the Borough like a business
5. Promote Atlantic Highlands and its business
6. Beautify First Avenue entrance
4. Oppose parking garage in harbor
5. Complete Bayshore Bike Trail
6. Aggressively explore Library Expansion
7. Additional Teen Programs for Recreation
8. Monitor NJNG Cleanup
9. Make Government more transparent
10. More grants to improve our Infrastructure
Republican Candidates have always run on a record of proven accomplishments. We promise to continue to make Atlantic Highlands a great place to live.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Stay Tuned
Helllllloooooooo...anyone out there?
Pardon my absence - been viva-ing Las Vegas and returned to a variety of home and work duties that required my most immediate attention. Don't fret though- I just put a load of laundry in the washer and will get it online soon.
In the meantime, can somebody tell me about the Meet theMets Mayor event last Tuesday? I hear we're getting a bike a path.
Boy, I hate to be a cynic but I'll believe that one when I peddle it for the first time.
Pardon my absence - been viva-ing Las Vegas and returned to a variety of home and work duties that required my most immediate attention. Don't fret though- I just put a load of laundry in the washer and will get it online soon.
In the meantime, can somebody tell me about the Meet the
Boy, I hate to be a cynic but I'll believe that one when I peddle it for the first time.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Help Victims of Hurricane Katrina on Thursday 9/8 and Monday 9/19
Goodies, located on the corner of First Avenue and West Mount Street will be collecting donations on Thursday, September 8, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Area residents are encouraged to bring items such as diapers, sheets, clothing and plastic bins for shipping. Items need to be in good condition and clean. For more information please stop by Goodies and ask for Cindy.
[updated 9/7/05]
Julia's Restaurant, located at 91 First Avenue, will donate all proceeds from dinner on Monday, September 19th to the American Red Cross. Chef Joe and owner John Valentin (former New York Mets and Boston Red Sox player) have also announced that a portion of the restaurant's September revenue will also be donated to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina relief fund.
[updated 9/7/05]
Julia's Restaurant, located at 91 First Avenue, will donate all proceeds from dinner on Monday, September 19th to the American Red Cross. Chef Joe and owner John Valentin (former New York Mets and Boston Red Sox player) have also announced that a portion of the restaurant's September revenue will also be donated to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina relief fund.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Here I Come to Save the Day
If Councilman Jack Archibald has a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find them, maybe you can hire the
AH Herald editor Allan Dean defends Archibald this week from the "politically motivated rumors" apparently being spread by Atlantic Highlands Democrats that Archibald is in favor of the redevelopment of the McConnell property. However, Dean doesn't name who's spreading these rumors. Why not? Is it because this rumor is a rumor itself? Is it that he read this post and now I'm an "otherwise reliable AH Dem(s)" now turned to the Dark Side? Is Dean serious when he states that politically motivated rumors (invented by Democrats) are beginning to fly and that politics are turning ugly (damn Democrats again) now that election season has started? Anyone who reads the Herald and its forums knows that politically motivated rumors and ugly politics are what keep us reading the soap opera that is our town politics year in and year out and that Dean himself actively participates.
For the record, Mayor Donoghue wrote a letter to the editor of the Bayshore Courier stating that he's going to work to see that the McConnell property can be used for public green space. Councilman Carl Nolan has also gone on record saying he is working toward stopping any kind of development on our shores. I'm yet to read or hear Archibald and the Republicans come out against this development. He's used the issue to try to paint the Democrats as being lazy and incompetent, yet he's been on the Council for nine years, has been involved in the town's Master Plan, has worked to protect other green space in town and yet no word on this property. Why?
Well, regardless of what I think, the Mayor thinks or Councilmen Archibald and Nolan think, you should let these folks know what you think.
AHES Renovation
Wednesday night's open house at the newly renovated AHES was a nice event. The teachers and staff were very friendly and informative, leading small tours through different classrooms and wings of the building. I encourage anyone who couldn't make it to drop by the school and take a tour. Some things I noticed:
- Some classrooms still have the original built-in cabinets and closets. Pretty neat.
- Most classrooms have at least two computers and the new media center is high-high-tech.
- Teachers still use the same cassette players and old-school headphones that I remember from elementary school. Couldn't we have afforded an iPod for each class? (That's a joke - I can hear a few Republican council members cursing my name right now).
- The band room is really smelly. What's up with that?
- The cake in the cafeteria was tast-eee and nearly swallowed whole by my daughter. Good thing she's a messy eater and left some crumbs on her party dress for me.
Carnival of New Jersey Bloggers
I'm a little late on this but check out last Sunday's edition hosted by PDC Ryan of If This Is Paradise I Wish I Had a Lawn-mower. The latest installment of the Carnival will be hosted by Have You Had Your Dojo Mojo Today? Look for it on Sunday. If this carney talk don't make sense to you read about the party here.
Hurricane Relief
The Keansburg Fire Department in association with the Keansburg Office of Emergency Management and the Keansburg Police Department will be making an emergency supply collection for the victims of Hurricane Katrina which hit the South.
Here's a list of organizations that are also collecting money to help those affected by the hurricane.
You can read a first hand account how horrible the situation is in New Orleans on this blog.
Miscellany
- Just 7 days until TRT: The Book! Kick off your driving mocs, sit back and relax with a good book in whichever of your 30 rooms you decide.
- Long Trail...mmmm...Magic Hat....number 9, number 9, Otter Creek...Get to know your Vermont beers with our very own Beerman.
- I'm mad as hell and I'm not gonna take it anymore! Anderson Cooper of CNN let the Sen. Mary Landrieu (Democrat of Louisiana) have it big time.
- Area Man Training For Upcoming Sanford And Son Marathon.
- Check out Down the Shore, a blog covering our backyard.
....nah, nah, nah, nah...nah, nah, nah, nah....hey hey, goodbye. All together now.
Buh-bye Bennies!
Have a great Labor Day weekend!
Hovnanian proposal not right for town
The following letter was published in the Bayshore Courier on August 25, 2005. Thank you to Associate Editor Jackie Corley for providing a copy.
To The Editor:
The proposal by Hovnanian to build 42 condominium units on the Atlantic Highlands waterfront is an ill-conceived idea worthy of opposition by all officials and residents.
I am absolutely against this high-density housing proposal and will fight it in any way possible. It is my belief that under no circumstances should any developer be allowed to build any more homes on this sensitive land than the R-1 zone allows. Anything more would add considerably to area traffic and safety concerns, increase school enrollment and taxpayer costs and further burden the water and sewer systems.
As a matter of fact, I think it would be wise for the borough to look into the possibility and implications of acquiring the land for public use, taking advantage of Green Acres and other available funding. The McConnell tract is, after all, one of our last water front properties and its preservation would be a marvelous legacy to the people of our community.
But whatever use evolves, I believe Hovnanian has evidenced a lack of concern for the people of the borough by pursuing this proposal, now in the hands of the Planning Board, despite the clearly expressed views of both residents and borough officials.
More than that, they have challenged the borough's right to afford able housing certification under Mount Laurel II, an action that will cost the borough considerable taxpayers' money to contest. Therefore, let me make it clear that I oppose this proposed development and I have grave questions about whether Hovnanian has any other goal than making money, despite the impact on the shore and its residents.
Peter E. Donoghue
Mayor, Atlantic Highlands
To The Editor:
The proposal by Hovnanian to build 42 condominium units on the Atlantic Highlands waterfront is an ill-conceived idea worthy of opposition by all officials and residents.
I am absolutely against this high-density housing proposal and will fight it in any way possible. It is my belief that under no circumstances should any developer be allowed to build any more homes on this sensitive land than the R-1 zone allows. Anything more would add considerably to area traffic and safety concerns, increase school enrollment and taxpayer costs and further burden the water and sewer systems.
As a matter of fact, I think it would be wise for the borough to look into the possibility and implications of acquiring the land for public use, taking advantage of Green Acres and other available funding. The McConnell tract is, after all, one of our last water front properties and its preservation would be a marvelous legacy to the people of our community.
But whatever use evolves, I believe Hovnanian has evidenced a lack of concern for the people of the borough by pursuing this proposal, now in the hands of the Planning Board, despite the clearly expressed views of both residents and borough officials.
More than that, they have challenged the borough's right to afford able housing certification under Mount Laurel II, an action that will cost the borough considerable taxpayers' money to contest. Therefore, let me make it clear that I oppose this proposed development and I have grave questions about whether Hovnanian has any other goal than making money, despite the impact on the shore and its residents.
Peter E. Donoghue
Mayor, Atlantic Highlands
Friday, August 26, 2005
Wanookie Friday
Welcome to Wanookie.
A long time ago when the New York Giants won the Superbowl, a reporter asked then New York City Mayor Koch if he was going to throw a parade for the team in downtown NYC. To which he said something to the effect of, "they can have their parade in Wanaque." Just a Jersey rookie when I read about the incident, I read the line as a parade in wä-nä-kē -- which sounded like a lot of fun to me. Wanakie eventually evolved into wä-nōō-kē so as to compliment Jay's line "schnookie nookie!" in Clerks . Hence, Fridays (fun) = Wanookie. Now you know. Someday perhaps I'll tell you all about the Extremely Raritan Bridge and Say You, Say Me, Sayreville... Naturally.
Hey somebody's gotta have some fun 'round here. Sure as hell ain't no fun at Borough Hall. We gots ourselves a battle royale. And it's only August. The November Council election is still 74 days away but somebody tell Mean Gene Okerlund to git his monkey suit on and git on down here to start the show. In addition to the Borough Attorney circus there's another carnival in town called the McConnell Property. And like always, it's a game of he said, she said, leaving residents like me scratching their heads.
Councilman Jack Archibald (who is gearing up for his November campaign) supports the redevelopment of the McConnell Property by K. Hovnanian. Archibald's latest Body Politic column in the Atlantic Highlands Herald is entitled McCONNELL PROPERTY SHOULD BE CLEANED UP BEFORE SALE TO HOVNANIAN (fait accompli, no?). Archibald believes if the borough forced New Jersey Natural Gas to clean up the site then Hovnanian would only need to build single-family homes and not multi-family units to subsidize the cost of the environmental clean-up. And who gets the blame for not forcing a cleanup of the property - the Donoghue Administration of course, who according to Archibald, have "neglected the issue for the past year."
However, Councilwoman Stephanie Ladiana writes, "for the last 9 years he [Archibald] seems to have intentionally ignored this property. Now that it’s convenient for him to take a position on it, he does. The only problem he’s constantly contradicting himself."
Looks to me like Archibald is on the developer's side on this one. He worked to designate the area for residential development, left the area off of the Borough's Open Space and Recreation Plan and as such does not agree with a majority of residents.
So, enquiring minds want to know - clean or dirty? Development or green space? Oh and there's this whole thing about a lawsuit about Atlantic Highlands not providing affordable housing units which could somehow provide a loophole for Hovnanian to get in. I hope the Democratic candidates spell out a clear point-of-view on this issue and I hope that view is that this property should become waterfront green space for all residents to enjoy.
Dynamobuzz pointed me to this article from the Wall Street Journal that takes another look at how the Supreme Court's decision in the case of Kelo vs. City of New London could affect homeowners in Long Branch who continue to fight to keep their homes from being dozed for luxury condos.
And since it's Wanookie let's have some fun:
- Evangelical Scientists Refute Gravity With New "Intelligent Falling" Theory
- Mary Had a Little Lamb. It Was Delicious: Klingon Fairy Tales
- Dictatorship's Secret: The Mall's Banana Republics for the New Millennium
- Stop smearing us!
Thursday, August 25, 2005
The Summer Wind
The summer wind, came blowin’ in - from across the sea
It lingered there, so warm and fair - to walk with me
All summer long, we sang a song - and strolled on golden sand
Three sweethearts, and the summer wind
Please pardon my absence. The Hill family has had one hell of a summer full of BBQ's, cold brews, beach trips, mountain retreats, cape fire marshmallows, limousine rides and rock n' roll shows, fireworks, sangria, Brazilian dance parties and a whole lot o' plain ol' downhome git down and boogie in the backyard. Can a brother get an Amen to that?!
Hummala bebhuhla zeebuhla boobuhla hummala bebhuhla zeebuhla bop!
Feels good to be back. Shasta!
'Tis fickle indeed that summer wind. Such a strange time when August winds down. Summer's end is September 22 accordingly to the calendar but as we all know folks, summer's cooked. It's back to school time (and back to bloggin' time). Not to say there isn't a lot more fun in the sun to be had before we start raking leaves (which are beginning to fall if you've got a keen eye that sort of thing) but the temperatures are dropping, the sunlight is different, the days are getting shorter and you can just feel it...ain't no cure for the summertime's over blues.
Unless you pop some Xanax and the cork off a 1990 Dom Perignon, relax with a good read by the pool and live the life that is....
Two River Times: The Book.
It lingered there, so warm and fair - to walk with me
All summer long, we sang a song - and strolled on golden sand
Three sweethearts, and the summer wind
Please pardon my absence. The Hill family has had one hell of a summer full of BBQ's, cold brews, beach trips, mountain retreats, cape fire marshmallows, limousine rides and rock n' roll shows, fireworks, sangria, Brazilian dance parties and a whole lot o' plain ol' downhome git down and boogie in the backyard. Can a brother get an Amen to that?!
Hummala bebhuhla zeebuhla boobuhla hummala bebhuhla zeebuhla bop!
Feels good to be back. Shasta!
'Tis fickle indeed that summer wind. Such a strange time when August winds down. Summer's end is September 22 accordingly to the calendar but as we all know folks, summer's cooked. It's back to school time (and back to bloggin' time). Not to say there isn't a lot more fun in the sun to be had before we start raking leaves (which are beginning to fall if you've got a keen eye that sort of thing) but the temperatures are dropping, the sunlight is different, the days are getting shorter and you can just feel it...ain't no cure for the summertime's over blues.
Unless you pop some Xanax and the cork off a 1990 Dom Perignon, relax with a good read by the pool and live the life that is....
Two River Times: The Book.
Our readers know and enjoy the best of many worlds, moving easily between penthouse and playing field; Big Apple and horse farm. Whether sporty, flirty or fun, they're well-read and well-traveled. In the boardroom or on the back nine, two river people mean business: they believe in living life rich -- rich in laughter, rich in luxury, rich in adventure, and most of all, rich in spirit. They know that each of us has only one ticket on this carousel ride of life -- and they're grabbing for the gold ring.
Damn. I rather enjoyed my lunch and that carousel ride just made me lose it.
But the question is, is there enough room on this fancy carousel for both TRT: The Book and M.A.R. Magazine (Mid-Atlantic Riviera)? I for one can't wait to see who wins the leather corset belt (you heard it here first - fall's must have accessory) in the prize fight for the glassy-eyed attention Monmouth County's desperately nouveau riche housewives.
Some things haven't changed since summer started:
- Republican council members continue to battle the Borough Attorney.
- Democratic Mayor Peter Donoghue continues to battle the council republicans.
- No work has been done on the bike trail.
- Lawsuits continue in the battle for Sandy Hook.
Let me hear you say this $#!% is bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s*
And some things have changed:
- Bella's has opened on First Avenue. The reviews are in and are stellar so far.
- The Atlantic Highlands Elementary School hired Christopher Rooney as the new superintendent.
- The Front Porch Club has launched a new website. Check it out and get involved.
- Jackie Corley from the Bayshore Courier has launched Bayshore Journalista, a new blog covering
newsscandals around the area. [note: a link to the site has been added to the blogroll so you can keep up with the soaps]
I'm just getting warmed up and caught up with all the news that's been shakin' and bakin' round the Bayshore. Please tune in again regularly as I'll be spinning all the hits of the day.
* Best song of the summer. Ya gots to love the Gwen Stefani.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Interview with a Kharakh
Ben Kharakh of Middletown is a graduate of the Communications High School of the Monmouth County Vocational School District. His website, One Trick Pony, offers a collection of humor pieces written by Ben and assorted imaginary collaborators. Ben's list of "Sexual Euphemisms That Won't Catch On" was recently published in the book Created in Darkness By Troubled Americans: The Best of McSweeney's Humor Category. I recently corresponded with Ben via an interpreter using electronic mail; here's what we talked about.
Is it true you look like a mustached Jonathon Taylor Thomas? And if so are you single for our lady readers?
Keith [Whitener - PR flack] is the one with the 'stache. I look more like Rock Hudson than the middle child from Home Improvement. There will be plenty of time for women when I'm dead. Right now, I have to concentrate on saving the world from mediocre comedy.
Thoughts on mustaches?
I prefer the look of fake 'staches and am known to wander around public places with faux whiskers.
Do you have a permanent residence?
I do.
I read an article where you referred to yourself in the third person. Why would you do that?
To spice things up.
Let's play Madlibs:
I was so traumatized by the time I was 30 years old that my only solace was my poop badminton skills and stupid ability to poo. Thus the Mohwak, books, Tevas and toilet.
Are you funny because you really hurt inside?
I build a wall to keep people on the other side, but they keep waiting. And picking.
What is your caffeinated beverage of choice and have you ever stolen from someone you love to get a fix?
Caffeine keeps me up, so I avoid it. I once had a Pepsi at three P.M and couldn't fall asleep until one in the morning.
Describe The Catcher in the Rye in five words:
J.D. Salinger's only good book.
Are you one wild and crazy guy?
I give Dan Ackroyd and Steve Martin a run for their money.
Rt. 35 or Rt. 36 – which is one is da bomb?
Choosing between the two is like choosing between one's own children. I don't want to contribute to global over-population, so I don't have to worry about that.
Most people ride horses or in cars – what's your ride?
I drive a class III Armored Vehicle - a 1990 Cutlass Sierra. Watch out on the road because I will not hesitate to crush you.
Name two people if given the chance you would whisper sweet nothings in their ear and what would you say?
Whispering makes me uneasy and I wouldn't want to infringe on someone's comfort zone, so I wouldn't partake in such an activity.
Is it true you look like a mustached Jonathon Taylor Thomas? And if so are you single for our lady readers?
Keith [Whitener - PR flack] is the one with the 'stache. I look more like Rock Hudson than the middle child from Home Improvement. There will be plenty of time for women when I'm dead. Right now, I have to concentrate on saving the world from mediocre comedy.
Thoughts on mustaches?
I prefer the look of fake 'staches and am known to wander around public places with faux whiskers.
Do you have a permanent residence?
I do.
I read an article where you referred to yourself in the third person. Why would you do that?
To spice things up.
Let's play Madlibs:
I was so traumatized by the time I was 30 years old that my only solace was my poop badminton skills and stupid ability to poo. Thus the Mohwak, books, Tevas and toilet.
Are you funny because you really hurt inside?
I build a wall to keep people on the other side, but they keep waiting. And picking.
What is your caffeinated beverage of choice and have you ever stolen from someone you love to get a fix?
Caffeine keeps me up, so I avoid it. I once had a Pepsi at three P.M and couldn't fall asleep until one in the morning.
Describe The Catcher in the Rye in five words:
J.D. Salinger's only good book.
Are you one wild and crazy guy?
I give Dan Ackroyd and Steve Martin a run for their money.
Rt. 35 or Rt. 36 – which is one is da bomb?
Choosing between the two is like choosing between one's own children. I don't want to contribute to global over-population, so I don't have to worry about that.
Most people ride horses or in cars – what's your ride?
I drive a class III Armored Vehicle - a 1990 Cutlass Sierra. Watch out on the road because I will not hesitate to crush you.
Name two people if given the chance you would whisper sweet nothings in their ear and what would you say?
Whispering makes me uneasy and I wouldn't want to infringe on someone's comfort zone, so I wouldn't partake in such an activity.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Hello, Hello Again
Yikes, it's been a long time. I hope there are some people out there still reading the AH Muse. I suppose if worse comes to worst I could manufacture a few controversies to get some attention. It works for some AH republicans...
Congrats to local humorist Ben Kharakh (of Middletown I think) on the publishing of a list he submitted to the McSweeney's website. Ben's list, "Sexual Euphemisms That Won't Catch On," was included in the book Created in Darkness by Troubled Americans: The Best of McSweeney's Humor Category. I've been slacking off on putting together an interview with Ben but hope to share some of our email exchanges soon. For those of you who don't know, McSweeney's is a big deal. At least to me.
The New Jersey Dept. of Transportation will be building asuicide lane bike path along the northbound and southbound sides of Route 36, extending the Henry Hudson Bike Trail from Atlantic Highlands to Sandy Hook. This better not be the completion of the decades-in-the- making Bayshore bike trail. Nuts! The idea of the bike path is for me and my family to be able to enjoy a leisurely ride to the beach, not get run off the road by cars speeding by at 60 mph and throwing cans of Mountain Dew out the window.
As the Bike Trail currently ends around Route 36 and Ave. D, I had to put my legs to work last Friday when I hooked up my daughter's trailer to my mountain bike and climbed the "highland" in Atlantic Highlands to get to the bay beach in Highlands. While the exhilaration of feeling like Lance Armstrong climbing the Pyrenees was fun my legs felt like they were made of chum chutney by the time I got home. If they don't finish the bike path by next summer mylittle not-so-little girl ain't gettin' any more free rides to the beach.
(PS - Gatorade is bunk - Long Trail Ale will replace any lost electrolytes and get you back on your feet in no time, especially if your BOF (Beer Only Fridge - thank you Mr. Beerman) is about 15 feet away from your lounge chair.
Please Mister Beerman/look and see/oh yeah
If there's a summer wheat beer in your fridge for me
Please, please Mister Beerman
Why's it takin' such a long time/oh yeah
For me to ride that bike trail of mine
Anyway. So apparently there's yet another "scandal" at Borough Hall (gasp gasp!). The Borough appointed a new Chief Financial Officer - Dawn L. Babcock - and, as always, our own Fox and Mulder (registration required) are on the case. This episode leads us down a trail of conspiracies and cover-ups and takes us to the spooky swamplands of Rutherford, NJ. You know weird stuff goes on there near dem Meadowlands - people with green faces, giants, devils, little men in silk. But it gets weirder. The new CFO was employed by Rutherford for only two-and-a-half months. THE HORROR!!
Thus our latest controversy. When the Council came out of an executive session in which the offer to Ms. Babcock was debated the people demanded to know who she was, where she worked, what she would be making, what her favorite pizza topping is and what dirt they could use to further the relentless assault on the dreaded Democratic Donoghue Regime. When Councilwoman Ladiana refused to answer these questions all hell broke loose - though I did hear the Councilwoman said that the new CFO likes pineapple on her pizza, which is weirder still (and unconfirmed). And why didn't our elected official cave into the demands of the angry mob? Because she's a tyrant on a power binge? A mad scientist that likes to tie residents up (preferably midgets) and throw food bits at them? No, she didn't make any announcements or answer questions because the prospective job candidate had not officially accepted the Council's offer. Thus, nothing to talk to about. Ah, but plenty to write about on the Atlantic Highlands Herald Forums, beginning in the wee hours and ending with phone calls to Ms. Babcok's former (then current) employer (which is how her former employer learned that Ms. Babcock would be resigning). Nice work folks! What if Ms. Babcock decided not to accept AH's offer? Now her employer knows she's interviewing. And not because she was working on her resume on company time or saying she was taking a long lunch to go on an interview or two or being just plain sloppy. No, a rabid pack of dogs had to chase down and manufacture a controversy.
Because that's how you get attention. Remind me to never apply for a job at Borough Hall.
Hey folks - buried in today's post is an allusion to an influential scientist who did strange things to midgets. Your neighborhood blogger will purchase you a cold brewski if you can name that scientist.
Congrats to local humorist Ben Kharakh (of Middletown I think) on the publishing of a list he submitted to the McSweeney's website. Ben's list, "Sexual Euphemisms That Won't Catch On," was included in the book Created in Darkness by Troubled Americans: The Best of McSweeney's Humor Category. I've been slacking off on putting together an interview with Ben but hope to share some of our email exchanges soon. For those of you who don't know, McSweeney's is a big deal. At least to me.
The New Jersey Dept. of Transportation will be building a
As the Bike Trail currently ends around Route 36 and Ave. D, I had to put my legs to work last Friday when I hooked up my daughter's trailer to my mountain bike and climbed the "highland" in Atlantic Highlands to get to the bay beach in Highlands. While the exhilaration of feeling like Lance Armstrong climbing the Pyrenees was fun my legs felt like they were made of chum chutney by the time I got home. If they don't finish the bike path by next summer my
(PS - Gatorade is bunk - Long Trail Ale will replace any lost electrolytes and get you back on your feet in no time, especially if your BOF (Beer Only Fridge - thank you Mr. Beerman) is about 15 feet away from your lounge chair.
Please Mister Beerman/look and see/oh yeah
If there's a summer wheat beer in your fridge for me
Please, please Mister Beerman
Why's it takin' such a long time/oh yeah
For me to ride that bike trail of mine
Anyway. So apparently there's yet another "scandal" at Borough Hall (gasp gasp!). The Borough appointed a new Chief Financial Officer - Dawn L. Babcock - and, as always, our own Fox and Mulder (registration required) are on the case. This episode leads us down a trail of conspiracies and cover-ups and takes us to the spooky swamplands of Rutherford, NJ. You know weird stuff goes on there near dem Meadowlands - people with green faces, giants, devils, little men in silk. But it gets weirder. The new CFO was employed by Rutherford for only two-and-a-half months. THE HORROR!!
Thus our latest controversy. When the Council came out of an executive session in which the offer to Ms. Babcock was debated the people demanded to know who she was, where she worked, what she would be making, what her favorite pizza topping is and what dirt they could use to further the relentless assault on the dreaded Democratic Donoghue Regime. When Councilwoman Ladiana refused to answer these questions all hell broke loose - though I did hear the Councilwoman said that the new CFO likes pineapple on her pizza, which is weirder still (and unconfirmed). And why didn't our elected official cave into the demands of the angry mob? Because she's a tyrant on a power binge? A mad scientist that likes to tie residents up (preferably midgets) and throw food bits at them? No, she didn't make any announcements or answer questions because the prospective job candidate had not officially accepted the Council's offer. Thus, nothing to talk to about. Ah, but plenty to write about on the Atlantic Highlands Herald Forums, beginning in the wee hours and ending with phone calls to Ms. Babcok's former (then current) employer (which is how her former employer learned that Ms. Babcock would be resigning). Nice work folks! What if Ms. Babcock decided not to accept AH's offer? Now her employer knows she's interviewing. And not because she was working on her resume on company time or saying she was taking a long lunch to go on an interview or two or being just plain sloppy. No, a rabid pack of dogs had to chase down and manufacture a controversy.
Because that's how you get attention. Remind me to never apply for a job at Borough Hall.
Hey folks - buried in today's post is an allusion to an influential scientist who did strange things to midgets. Your neighborhood blogger will purchase you a cold brewski if you can name that scientist.
Friday, June 03, 2005
Hee-haw?........Holy Sh%&!
Have you heard about the black bear popping up all over Monmouth County this week?
The Beerman done got me drooling again. His column this week reminded me of one of the best poems I've ever read. Who's better than G. Love to get your cocktail hour bumpin' and grindin'? Nobody, that's who.
With all this talk about harbor redevelopment in town one would be smart to get to know its history.
How cute! Bishop Gordon has a crush on the American Idol!
Next year I'll be attending the PBA Ball at the Shore Casino and will do some live blogging. For now you can read all about it here.
Why this car is automatic/It's systematic/It's hydromatic/Why it's the Atlantic Highlands Antique and Classic Car Show. Git yer grease on and look at old cars this Saturday Saturday Saturday.
If there's something you don't want to win it's The Effin Eejit Award.
I find this fascinating, you may not.
And now that it's officially summertime here are some BBQ tips from The Onion:
Well I'm really happy that Ms. Eldridge can keep her sense of humor about all of this but let's get back to the part about no one knowing how the bear got onto the base and how it's like restricted and all. I don't think they're exactly transporting donuts out of Earle. Maybe I'm a bit paranoid but perhaps the security measures at Earle need to be reviewed.The latest sighting happened sometime around 5 a.m. Thursday, when workers at Earle reported seeing the bear on the pier that extends into Sandy Hook Bay, said Nancy Eldridge, a spokeswoman for the military base.
No one is sure how the bear found its way onto the base and out to the pier, which is off limits to the public.
"It's restricted to military personnel, so I guess we could give him a $500 fine for trespassing," Eldridge joked Thursday afternoon. "We do have wildlife on the base, but this is the first time I can remember hearing about a bear on the base."
The Beerman done got me drooling again. His column this week reminded me of one of the best poems I've ever read. Who's better than G. Love to get your cocktail hour bumpin' and grindin'? Nobody, that's who.
With all this talk about harbor redevelopment in town one would be smart to get to know its history.
How cute! Bishop Gordon has a crush on the American Idol!
Next year I'll be attending the PBA Ball at the Shore Casino and will do some live blogging. For now you can read all about it here.
Why this car is automatic/It's systematic/It's hydromatic/Why it's the Atlantic Highlands Antique and Classic Car Show. Git yer grease on and look at old cars this Saturday Saturday Saturday.
If there's something you don't want to win it's The Effin Eejit Award.
I find this fascinating, you may not.
And now that it's officially summertime here are some BBQ tips from The Onion:
- Marinate your ribs in bourbon before barbecuing. The best way to do this is by pouring the whiskey down your throat.
- The endangered Cebu cinnamon tree of the Philippines is the best firewood for grilling. Use anything less, and you might as well be cooking your food on top of smoldering raccoon shit.
- When barbecuing veggie burgers, be sure to tie your long hair back. That will keep it away from the flames, you stupid hippie.
- Read the entire list here
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Viva La Revolution!
The SeaStreak boycott and email campaign worked. Thanks to all who participated and stuck it to the man. And for all those people who laughed at us and didn't want to stand up to be heard - you can buy me drinks all June with the $77 you're going to save monthly now.
From : Contact,Seastreak
Sent : Thursday, May 26, 2005 10:44 AM
To : "Contact, Seastreak"
Subject : Letter to Monmouth County Passengers
Dear Passengers:
First, let me say thank you to those of you that took the time to e-mail me. Your comments have helped me to understand your concerns and we will be making some changes during the next week or so to improve our service to you.
We appreciate the loyalty of our regular riders and effective June 1st SeaStreak will reinstate the 120 trip book at $1,517. This effectively is a $77 per month savings over our current 40-trip ticket book price.
The top deck will be open for your enjoyment on afternoon departures beginning this Friday afternoon, May 27th.
The 11:00pm E. 34 St. and 11:15pm Pier 11 departures will be returning daily on Tuesday, May 31st. This service will operate Monday – Friday initially throughout the summer.
We will be working on a number of other on-board improvements and additional concession offerings and will advise you as they are introduced.
We are in business to provide you a safe, fast and comfortable daily commute and hope that you continue utilizing the SeaStreak ferry service.
Regards,
Geoffrey Ede
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Ciao Bella
It's been a while. Let's see what's shakin'...
Team Holland began it's rowing adventure in AH last week and is hoping to make it to Europe in under 55 days. How does one prepare for a trip rowing across the Atlantic? By grabbing some late night Chinese food. On my way home after stepping off a late ferry last Thursday I saw four tall, blond guys in track suits having dinner at Cheng's Garden and popped in to wish them good luck and a fond farewell. Wheaties may be the breakfast of champions but General Tso's Chicken is apparently the dinner of champions.
There's talk of merging the Highlands and Atlantic Highlands school districts. The topic has been raised at Board of Education meetings in both towns but it doesn't seem like there are any concrete plans as of yet. The idea was also explored 15 years ago according to the Asbury Park Press but never gained momentum.
Forget Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, watch out for Episode II: Attack of theClones Hawk.
SeaStreak commuters received an email from Geoffrey Ede, Managing Director of Hoverspeed, a division of SeaStreak's parent company Sea Container based in the UK. Mr. Ede attempted to make nice with SeaStreak passengers after the second fare increase in 5 months by offering a free round-trip peak ticket for every 40-trip book bought in June. The free-ticket offer was to make up for not giving commuters ample notice to purchase a monthly book before the new fares went into effect. Whoop-dee-doo. Mr. Ede wrote:
I invite Mr. Ede to take a trip across the pond to chat with passengers about SeaStreak's customer service. Sea Containers may pride themselves on their "superior level of customer service" but they certainly can't pride themselves on internal corporate communications - riders have been complaining about SeaStreak management for years. Perhaps Mr. Ede will take me up on my invitation. I've seen a few UK-based ISPs visiting the AH Muse for a couple of weeks now - whoever you are maybe you can talk to Mr. Ede and tell him to hop on a plane one of these days to chat with his valued customers.
Ede goes on in his letter to inform us that "SeaStreak is working on a number of on-board improvements that will enhance your trip and you will see these launched this summer." I can’t wait!
If you didn’t detect the sarcasm of that last line you may have injured the prefrontal lobes of your brain.
Check out what's going on in the Jersey blogosphere at The Carnival of The New Jersey Bloggers. I've always wanted to be carney folk! Woo-hoo!
Don't forget that this Thursday all your friends and neighbors will be at the Fireman's Fieldhouse for a Q&A session with the engineers hired by the NJ DOT to present plans to redevelop the harbor. I hear that either Jerry Springer or Vince McMahon will be emceeing.
Shaggy, Scooby and I solved the mystery of Bel Vesuvio. All it took was some Scooby snacks and a phone call. Look for Bella's to open this June. As described to me, Bella's will be a bistro style restaurant with a raw bar. Mmmmm...raw bar. Ciao Bella's!
Now if we could only get a decent pub in town.
Mmmmm...pub.
Team Holland began it's rowing adventure in AH last week and is hoping to make it to Europe in under 55 days. How does one prepare for a trip rowing across the Atlantic? By grabbing some late night Chinese food. On my way home after stepping off a late ferry last Thursday I saw four tall, blond guys in track suits having dinner at Cheng's Garden and popped in to wish them good luck and a fond farewell. Wheaties may be the breakfast of champions but General Tso's Chicken is apparently the dinner of champions.
There's talk of merging the Highlands and Atlantic Highlands school districts. The topic has been raised at Board of Education meetings in both towns but it doesn't seem like there are any concrete plans as of yet. The idea was also explored 15 years ago according to the Asbury Park Press but never gained momentum.
Forget Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, watch out for Episode II: Attack of the
SeaStreak commuters received an email from Geoffrey Ede, Managing Director of Hoverspeed, a division of SeaStreak's parent company Sea Container based in the UK. Mr. Ede attempted to make nice with SeaStreak passengers after the second fare increase in 5 months by offering a free round-trip peak ticket for every 40-trip book bought in June. The free-ticket offer was to make up for not giving commuters ample notice to purchase a monthly book before the new fares went into effect. Whoop-dee-doo. Mr. Ede wrote:
I am aware that many of you are unhappy with the fact that the recent price increase was communicated to you with no more than a two-day notice to purchase your ticket books at current prices.
Sea Containers pride themselves on a superior level of customer service and this short notice did not live up to the company's expectations of how our valued passengers should be treated.In order to make amends for our shortcomings, I would like to offer all our passengers who purchase a 40-trip ticket book during the month of June a complimentary peak round trip ticket. This should make up the difference of the increased monthly book price for the month of June.
I invite Mr. Ede to take a trip across the pond to chat with passengers about SeaStreak's customer service. Sea Containers may pride themselves on their "superior level of customer service" but they certainly can't pride themselves on internal corporate communications - riders have been complaining about SeaStreak management for years. Perhaps Mr. Ede will take me up on my invitation. I've seen a few UK-based ISPs visiting the AH Muse for a couple of weeks now - whoever you are maybe you can talk to Mr. Ede and tell him to hop on a plane one of these days to chat with his valued customers.
Ede goes on in his letter to inform us that "SeaStreak is working on a number of on-board improvements that will enhance your trip and you will see these launched this summer." I can’t wait!
If you didn’t detect the sarcasm of that last line you may have injured the prefrontal lobes of your brain.
Check out what's going on in the Jersey blogosphere at The Carnival of The New Jersey Bloggers. I've always wanted to be carney folk! Woo-hoo!
Don't forget that this Thursday all your friends and neighbors will be at the Fireman's Fieldhouse for a Q&A session with the engineers hired by the NJ DOT to present plans to redevelop the harbor. I hear that either Jerry Springer or Vince McMahon will be emceeing.
Shaggy, Scooby and I solved the mystery of Bel Vesuvio. All it took was some Scooby snacks and a phone call. Look for Bella's to open this June. As described to me, Bella's will be a bistro style restaurant with a raw bar. Mmmmm...raw bar. Ciao Bella's!
Now if we could only get a decent pub in town.
Mmmmm...pub.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
I'm About To Find What I'm Looking For
The countdown is on! U2 at the Brendan Byrne Continental Arena! May 18th! It's Guinness time!
Speaking of U2, Jersey blogger ShoreThing ran into Bono in an elevator today. How effing cool is that! And speaking of running into Bono, Mrs. Muse and I like to play a version of lottery fantasy called "Let's have Bono over for dinner." It's a game where we pretend how exactly we happen to run into Bono and just how cool he thinks we are. Well one thing leads to another and we say, hey Bono, how about coming over for dinner? Nothing fancy. And he says sure and we have some steamers, beer and burgers and we proceed to hang out and become lifelong friends. Usually my wife throws in a part about him strumming a few acoustic tunes and serenading her and I have a part where we go shoot pool a dive bar.
We're not too excited for the show tomorrow.
As I'm boycotting Seastreak this week I can't tell if the "rideout" has been successful so far or not. I do know that there are a lot people searching the Internets for "seastreak boycott" and "boycott seastreak" and "seastreak protest" and they are landing at the AH Muse. So, if anything a statement has been made, even if only by me and a few others (hopefully about 100). Seastreak won't get my $1.50 for the liquefied product which has been injected with caffeine (aka "coffee"), or my $6 for a plastic container of beer, or my $6 for what amounts to an ever so small and teasing tiny swig of scotch. At least this week damnit.
While I'm not happy with the fare increase, it's Seastreak's complete lack of customer service that I'm boycotting the most, as are most people. (Hmmm...can you boycott something that's lacking or doesn't exist?) The idea (obviously) is not to run Seastreak out of business but to make them actually write a business plan, think strategically and long term and to stop screwing Monmouth County riders. Anyway, steady I say.
Did I mention how the coffee sucks, and how a good number of boats are consistently late and how they'll hold a boat if a woman running in heels yells "wait" but when I'm running and yelling "oh for the love of God please wait and I shall present you with riches and rare treasures more wild than you could ever imagine" the crew pretty much waves to me, smiles, and says bon voyage? Steady. Indeed, you #$%&*@ stupid #$%&!#.
Comedy, conspiracy theories, love, learning and even campfire songs...it's all on the Atlantic Highlands Herald Forums.
Speaking of U2, Jersey blogger ShoreThing ran into Bono in an elevator today. How effing cool is that! And speaking of running into Bono, Mrs. Muse and I like to play a version of lottery fantasy called "Let's have Bono over for dinner." It's a game where we pretend how exactly we happen to run into Bono and just how cool he thinks we are. Well one thing leads to another and we say, hey Bono, how about coming over for dinner? Nothing fancy. And he says sure and we have some steamers, beer and burgers and we proceed to hang out and become lifelong friends. Usually my wife throws in a part about him strumming a few acoustic tunes and serenading her and I have a part where we go shoot pool a dive bar.
We're not too excited for the show tomorrow.
As I'm boycotting Seastreak this week I can't tell if the "rideout" has been successful so far or not. I do know that there are a lot people searching the Internets for "seastreak boycott" and "boycott seastreak" and "seastreak protest" and they are landing at the AH Muse. So, if anything a statement has been made, even if only by me and a few others (hopefully about 100). Seastreak won't get my $1.50 for the liquefied product which has been injected with caffeine (aka "coffee"), or my $6 for a plastic container of beer, or my $6 for what amounts to an ever so small and teasing tiny swig of scotch. At least this week damnit.
While I'm not happy with the fare increase, it's Seastreak's complete lack of customer service that I'm boycotting the most, as are most people. (Hmmm...can you boycott something that's lacking or doesn't exist?) The idea (obviously) is not to run Seastreak out of business but to make them actually write a business plan, think strategically and long term and to stop screwing Monmouth County riders. Anyway, steady I say.
Did I mention how the coffee sucks, and how a good number of boats are consistently late and how they'll hold a boat if a woman running in heels yells "wait" but when I'm running and yelling "oh for the love of God please wait and I shall present you with riches and rare treasures more wild than you could ever imagine" the crew pretty much waves to me, smiles, and says bon voyage? Steady. Indeed, you #$%&*@ stupid #$%&!#.
Comedy, conspiracy theories, love, learning and even campfire songs...it's all on the Atlantic Highlands Herald Forums.
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