- DUI Arrest – On Tuesday, January 17, 2017, Officers Julie Barcalow and Jason Lee responded to JR’s Liquors, located at 1000 Lacey Road in Forked River for an unrelated alarm. While at the scene, a seperate DUI investigation began. The investigation led to the arrest of 45-year-old James Frey of Green View Way in Toms River, NJ, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. James Frey was released after receiving traffic summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Open Container of Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle and Consuming Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law
- Warrant Arrest – On Monday, January 16, 2017, at 11:05 p.m., Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of Caffrey’s, located at 440 Route 9 South in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, identified as 27-year-old Keith W. Hestermann, Jr., of North Penn Avenue in Forked River, on an outstanding Lacey Township Municipal Court warrant in the bail amount of $750. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Keith Hestermann, Jr., was unable to post bail and was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
- Drug Arrest – On Monday, January 16, 2017, at 12:02 a.m., Officer Michael Baldasari conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of Applebees, located at 404 Route 9 South in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, 25-year-old Joseph R. Greco of Bittern Lane in Bayville, NJ, for Possession of CDS. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Joseph Greco was released after receiving a criminal summons for Possession of Marijuana 50 Grams or Less and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. In addition he received traffic summonses for Speeding and CDS in a Motor Vehicle.
- Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, January 15, 2017, at 7:54 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno responded to Second Street in Forked River to serve two outstanding warrants. Upon arrival, officers arrested 25-year-old Jerry L. Anderson, 3rd, of Lexington Boulevard in Barnegat, NJ on the two outstanding warrants. Warrant number one (1) was issued by the Berkeley Township Municipal Court in the bail amount of $1,500 and warrant number two (2) was issued by the Ocean Township Municipal Court in the bail amount of $120. Jerry Anderson was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was unable to post bail and was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
- Warrant Arrest – On Sunday, January 15, 2017, at 12:25 a.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Middle Branch and Bahama Drives in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, identified as 30-year-old Stephen P. Pajewski of Route 37 West in Toms River, NJ, on two outstanding warrants. Warrant number one (1) was issued by the Manchester Township Municipal Court in the bail amount of $500 and warrant number two (2) was issued by the Robbinsville Township Municipal Court in the bail amount of $1,500. Stephen Pajewski was transported to police headquarters and processed. He posted bail on the Manchester Township Municipal Court warrant. Robbinsville Township was contacted regarding their warrant and they released him on his own recognizance pending a future court date. In addition, Stephen Pajewski received a motor vehicle summons for Driving with a Suspended Driver’s License before being released from custody.
- Warrant Arrest – On Saturday, January 14, 2017, at 10:21 p.m., Officer Anthony Sarno conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Beverly Road and Joffre Road in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the front seat passenger, identified as 46-year-old Steven J. Bassford, of Lancaster Court in Forked River, on an outstanding Ocean County Sheriff’s Department warrant in the bail amount of $22,073.87. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Stephen Bassford was unable to post bail and was lodged in the Ocean County Correctional Facility.
- Drug Arrest – On Saturday, January 14, 2017, at 9:25 p.m., Officer Michael Verwey responded to the Wawa, located at 701 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a report of a male slumped over the steering wheel in his vehicle. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, identified as 24-year-old Robert M. Donahue of Crestwood Drive in Forked River, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. Robert Donahue was released after receiving traffic summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Failure to Exhibit Registration and Failure to Exhibit Proof of Insurance. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
- Drug Arrest – On Saturday, January 14, 2017, at 2:49 p.m., Special Officer Adam Bylsma conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Route 9 South and Station Drive in Forked River. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of the driver, identified as 21-year-old Brianna L. Vega of Oregon Avenue in Waretown, NJ, for Possession of CDS. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Brianna Vega was released after receiving a criminal summons for Possession of Marijuana 50 Grams or Less. In addition, she received traffic summonses for CDS in a Motor Vehicle and Cell Phone Use.
- Warrant Arrest – On Friday, January 13, 2017, at 8:48 p.m., Officers Martin Julian and Jesse Dalziel responded to Constitution Drive in Forked River, to serve an outstanding warrant. Upon arrival officers arrested 24-year-old Shawn P. Kelly of Constitution Drive in Forked River, on an outstanding Hammonton Township Municipal Court warrant in the bail amount of $1500. Shawn Kelly was transported to police headquarters and processed. He was turned over to the custody the Hammonton Township Police Department.
- Shoplifting Arrest – On Friday, January 13, 2017, at 6:37 p.m., Officers Patrick Watkins and Andrew Slota responded to the Walmart, located at 580 Route 9 North in Lanoka Harbor, for a female shoplifter. Investigation at the scene led to the arrest of 18-year-old Taquanah I. Boone of Maple Street in Waretown, NJ, for shoplifting merchandise valued at $34.96. In addition, she initially provided a false name. She was transported to police headquarters and processed. Taquanah Boone was released after receiving a criminal summons for Shoplifting and for Hindering her own Apprehension by providing the false name.
All News
Lacey Police Impound Vehicle in DUI Arrest
On Tuesday, January 17, 2017, Officers Julie Barcalow and Jason Lee responded to JR’s Liquors, located at 1000 Lacey Road in Forked River for an unrelated alarm. While at the scene, a seperate DUI investigation began. The investigation led to the arrest of 45-year-old James Frey of Green View Way in Toms River, NJ, for DUI. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. James Frey was released after receiving traffic summonses for DUI, Reckless Driving, Open Container of Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle and Consuming Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle. The vehicle he was operating was impounded pursuant to John’s Law.
Lacey Police and Fire Department Honored for Saving Woman’s Life
by Chief Michael DiBella, LaceyPD
LACEY-On Tuesday evening, January 17, 2017, the Lacey Township Board of Education honored Police Officers Anthony Sarno and Christopher Meyler, along with Forked River Firefighter Edward Barker, Jr., for saving an elderly woman from her burning home November 25, 2016. During the Lacey School Board meeting, High School Principal Greg Brandis spoke about the incident and honored all three alumni for their actions, providing each with a certificate. Several officers from the Lacey Township Police Department, along with members of the Forked River Fire Department, Mayor Peter Curatolo and Committeeman Gary Quinn were present. Officer Sarno graduated in 2003, Officer Meyler in 2007, and Edward Barker, Jr in 2010.
The incident occurred on Friday, November 25, 2016, at 12:09 a.m. Officers Christopher Meyler, Anthony Sarno, and Julie Barcalow responded to the 1800 block of Serpentine Drive in Forked River, in regard to a fire alarm. The fire alarm notification was followed by a second call, from a neighbor reporting heavy smoke coming from the residence. Upon Officer Meyler’s arrival, he observed a large concentration of flames coming from the rear of the ranch-style home. Officer Meyler located two adult female occupants (visitors from Massachusetts), who advised that they were able to exit from the fire, however, the 81-year-old female homeowner was still inside. Officer Meyler soon discovered the woman was trapped inside the attached garage. Officer Meyler broke an exterior garage window and entered inside in an attempt to reach the homeowner. Officers Julie Barcalow, Anthony Sarno, and Scott Keefe arrived on scene to assist. Officer Sarno entered the garage, along with two Forked River Volunteer Firemen, Rob Anderson and Edward Barker, Jr. The four of them were able to successfully transfer the woman homeowner outside through the garage window. The homeowner, and the two female visitors from Massachusetts, ages 64 and 35, were transported to Community Medical Center for smoke inhalation. Officers Meyler and Sarno were also taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries.
In addition to Officers Anthony Sarno and Christopher Meyler, both Officers Julie Barcalow and Scott Keefe were recognized on December 9, 2016, by Chief Michael C. DiBella for their actions involving the November 25, 2016 fire. In addition, I would like to acknowledge that Forked River Firefighter Rob Anderson was as instrumental as all in saving the woman’s life. Furthermore, I need to acknowledge Forked River Fire Chief Raymond Brandmahl for his actions November 25, 2016.
I would like to thank the Lacey Township Board of Education for taking the time to honor the involved police officers and firefighters. Additionally, I would like to once again honor all of the involved police officers and firefighters who helped save this woman’s life back on November 25, 2016. In addition to our officers, our Emergency Services Personnel are truly an asset to Lacey Township and I thank them.
The below photos depict the certificates provided by the Lacey Township High School to Officers Anthony Sarno and Christopher Meyler.
Lacey Township Police Department/Ocean County Sheriff’s Police Explorer Program Monthly Update
by Chief Michael DiBella, Lacey PD
LACEY-On December 7th, 2016, I announced Lacey Township Police Department’s partnership with the Ocean County Sheriff to bring our young adults the most advanced police explorer program available. The recent partnership has led to several new police explorers from Lacey Township. The new Police Explorers have all been measured for their respective police explorer uniforms in anticipation for working events throughout Lacey Township and Ocean County in 2017. In addition, the new Police Explorers have already received training on preparing and conducting search warrants, which included a mock search warrant execution for illegal drugs and firearms at a building located at the Robert J. Miller Air Park , Law Enforcement Use of Force Training and Military Etiquette and Drill. The next Police Explorer Meeting is scheduled for this Thursday, January 19th, 2017, at 6:00 p.m. at the Robert J. Miller Air Park, located at 901 Route 530, Bayville, NJ (Berkeley Township). The topic of discussion will be illegal narcotics. Lacey Township Police Chief Michael C. DiBella and Lieutenant Paul Sullivan, Jr., will be representing Lacey Township Police Department. The Lacey Township/Ocean County Sheriff’s Police Explorer Post is still accepting a limited amount of applications for Police Explorers.
The Police Explorer program is run through the Boy Scouts of America Learning for Life program and is designed to provide exciting and challenging training, along with “on-the-job” experience for young adults who may be interested in a career in law enforcement. Police Explorers participate in many phases of Law enforcement work, but are NOT placed in dangerous situations. The Police Explorer program is an excellent way to become involved with the community while learning about a possible career in law enforcement! Several Law Enforcement Officers began their careers as police explorers.
REQUIREMENTS
Be 14 to 20 years of age (must enter the program prior to 18th birthday)
Maintain at least a ‘C’ average in all school work through 12th grade
Pass a background investigation (criminal/motor vehicle record)
Complete an oral interview
Maintain outstanding moral and ethical character at all times
Demonstrate willingness to serve and participate in Police Explorer activities and community events
An applicant CANNOT have any arrests, convictions, or serious motor vehicle violations (for example a DUI). Police Explorers will have to display professionalism and good behavior at all times. The Police Explorer must be able to work independently and with other Explorers, Explorer Peer Supervisors, and Law Enforcement Officers. The public will hold Police Explorers to the same high standards as Police Officers.
Police Explorers must attend training three times a month once appointed. The training is conducted by Ocean County Sheriff’s Officers, Lacey Township Police Officers, and additional law enforcement officers, who serve as Police Explorer Advisors.
Applications are currently available at the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, 120 Hooper Avenue, 3rd Floor, in Toms River, and the Lacey Township Police Department, located at 808 W. Lacey Road in Forked River. Applications are also available at the Lacey Township High School Guidance Office, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor. Completed applications can either be submitted to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department or the Lacey Township Police Department. There are no fees involved for the police explorer program. For additional information or questions, please contact Lieutenant Paul Sullivan, Jr., at the Lacey Township Police Department (609) 693-6636, ext. 2577, or Ocean County Sheriff’s Officer Christine Farrell at (732) 288-7843.
Lacey Township Receives "Town of Excellence Award" from DART Prevention Coalition
LACEY-RWJBarnabas Health Institute for Prevention (IFP)’s DART Prevention Coalition recently honored local individuals for their significant contributions in substance abuse prevention throughout Ocean County. Awards/Honorees include:
- “Terrence P. Farley Recognition of Excellence Award” for exemplifying passion for substance abuse prevention and leadership in Ocean County. Recipient: Lieutenant Jeffrey Ryan, Barnegat Police Department.
- “Recognition of Service Award” to Retired Chief Robert Lawson, Lakewood Police Department.
- “Training in Intervention Procedures (TIPs) Policy Awards” designed to prevent underage drinking and drunk driving. Recipients: Tuscan Bistro Bar, Toms River; and Tio Juan’s Margaritas, Toms River.
- “Town of Excellence Award” for implementation of comprehensive prevention strategies in partnership with government, school, law enforcement and faith-based groups. Recipient: Lacey Township.
Township officials lauded the efforts of the Lacey Township Municipal Alliance, the department of recreation, the Lacey Township Police Department and the Lacey Township School District.
The IFP named Lacey Township a “Town of Excellence” in its efforts to curtail underage drinking and the use of illegal marijuana, drugs and tobacco, during the DART Prevention Coalition’s Year-End Celebration. Lacey Township was the only Municipality in New Jersey to receive this award in 2016.
The Lacey Township Police Department’s efforts have included but are not limited to the 5x Sticker-Shock program that was presented in all three of our local liquor stores on September 1st, 2016, including Spirits Unlimited, Lacey Liquors, and Jr’s Liquors.
The 5x campaign is premised on the research that kids are 5x more likely to develop an alcohol problem if they start drinking before the age of 15.
“Sticker Shock”, a component of the 5x campaign, is designed to reach adults who might purchase alcohol legally and provide it to minors.
During the Sticker Shock program, bright red stickers warning about the penalties for furnishing alcohol to minors were placed by school students on alcohol products, including beer and wine coolers, which might appeal to underage drinkers.
Additional efforts include Lieutenant Paul Sullivan, Jr., presenting the “Parents who Host Lose the Most” alcohol prevention campaign program during both the Lacey Township High School Freshman Orientation and the Lacey Township Middle School Back to School Night in 2016. The “Parents who Host Lose the Most” program is a public awareness program educating communities and parents about health and safety risks of serving alcohol at teenage parties. The program concentrates on celebratory times for youth, including, but not limited to, homecoming, prom and graduation and other times when underage drinking is prevalent. The program encourages parents and the community to send a unified message that teen alcohol consumption is unhealthy, unsafe and not acceptable.
Furthermore, Lacey Township Police was one of the first police department’s to supply a medicine drop-box in the lobby of police headquarters. The drop-box is used for the proper disposal of unwanted medications, however, does not include liquids or syringes. To date the Lacey Township Police Department has received and disposed of thousands of pounds of unwanted medications and will continue to do so into the future. The program is anonymous and no record will be made of individual identities related to the discarded medications. Residents simply need to respond to the Lacey Township Police Department, enter the main lobby, and drop the medications in the designated drop-box and leave. At no time do you need to check in with the Police Dispatch Center or speak with any officers. The Medicine drop-box is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
In 2017, Lacey Township will continue to focus on the above initiatives. In addition, the Lacey Township Police Department is in the initial stages of providing the “LEADS” program, also known as “Law Enforcement Against Drugs” to the school children of Lacey Township.
“I will continue to bring drug and alcohol prevention and education programs to our community,” said Lacey Township Police Chief Michael DiBella. “In addition, I would like to personally thank the DART Coalition, the Lacey Township Committee, the Lacey Township Board of Education, the Municipal Alliance, the members of the Lacey Township Police Department, and all other assisting agencies, for their support and dedication leading to this award.”
Watch: Regina Discenza Calls it Quits; Blames Everyone Else
Letter to the Editor
Lacey school board member Regina Discenza, to pretty much everyone’s enjoyment and pleasure announced she’s done taking up space on the Lacey School Board and will not run for reelection when her term expires after 9 or 10 or 11 or whatever failed campaigns.
Now that the public has seen her antics, she knows she would never win another election anyway.
She’s been worthless on the board since she got on it and has been nothing but a political nuisance in a position that is non-partisan and non-political.
And yes, Ms. Dicsenza, as a school board member you are not welcome to any other perks or benefits that any non-elected citizen has.
Regina Discenza feels she has special powers as a school board member that ordinary residents don’t have.
Not the case.
She must have missed that class.
The township and the children will be better without her.
Her response was beautifully highlighted by her fellow board members who completely ignored her entire speech, but remember…it’s “for the children”!
Signed,
A happy Lacey parent with children in the district.
UPSET WITH THE LACEY SCHOOL BOARD? Send your letters to the editor to news@shorenewsnetwork.com
NJ 2-1-1 Participating in NJCounts 2017
NJ 2-1-1 Participating in NJCounts 2017 (East Hanover, NJ) –
Toms River Officials: 75% of beach dunes lost in Nor'easter
A news release has been published by the Township of Toms River. It reads:
The Township Department of Public Works and Engineering have been monitoring conditions at our beaches following last night’s nor’easter. Unfortunately, we estimate about 75 percent of our dunes were lost in this storm. Several walkovers were also damaged. Our Parks, Buildings and Grounds department has closed access points to the beaches in these locations. Fortunately, there were no breaches of ocean breaking through to the streets.
The Township has an emergency contract in place with Cardinal Construction to import sand as soon as possible. We hope to be moving sand in the next day or so, working first in Ortley Beach then moving to Normandy Beach. Mayor Kelaher has been in contact with the state Department of Environmental Protection to request some assistance from the state for this nor’easter.
Until the federal dune replenishment project begins this spring, the Township remains committed to protecting private property and businesses from storms and flooding.
photos provided by Toms River Township.
Teen Struck by Car While Crossing Street for School Bus
Submitted by Jackson Police Dept.
JACKSON-On Tuesday January 24, 2017 at approximately 6:52 am, patrol officers and emergency personnel responded to Brewers Bridge Road in the area of Buckingham Drive on the report of a juvenile who had been struck by a vehicle.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers determined that a teenaged male suffered minor injuries after being struck by a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix while crossing Brewers Bridge Road to board a township school bus. The driver of the involved vehicle was identified as a 57 year old female resident of Lakehurst. She stopped her vehicle immediately and was fully cooperative with the investigating officers.
The teenaged male was transported by ground to a local hospital as a precaution.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the juvenile had entered the roadway prior to the bus coming to a stop and activating its red flashing lights. The incident is still currently under investigation by Police Officers Trevor Crowley and Brad Reider of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
Ocean County Democrats Offer Sessions on Activism in Toms River, Barnegat
The Ocean County Democrats will be hosting two events in February, activist training and a Trump “How and Why” session.
On February 8th, from 6-8 pm, Democrats will be discussing, “Making a difference-how, why and when in the Trump era.” The event will be held at the Ocean County Library in Downtown Toms River.
On February 23rd, from 6-8pm, they will be providing Democratic Activist Training at the Barnegat branch of the Ocean County Library.
“Making a difference in your town and country- running for office- how, why and when to run,” read the event notice. “If you’ve ever thought about running for office, or would like to get involved in a campaign- this training is for you. This is the first session in a series, and will go over how to get on the ballot and what it takes to get started.”
Clean drinking water to be made available for residents with contaminated wells
JACKSON-Joint Base MDL officials said today that they have not yet received test results back from wells tested in Jackson Township, but if those tests come back with PFOS and PFOA levels that exceed EPA limits, clean water will be provided to those residents.
“Where our activities contaminated drinking water above the Environmental Protection Agency health advisory, we immediately provide safe drinking water and implement long-term steps to ensure safe drinking water, including transitioning to a more environmentally responsible AFFF alternative,” said Air Force spokesperson Chris Powell.
He added that the Air Force will continue sampling wells in Jackson Township that are near the contamination zone on the the base. Earlier it was estimated that 40 to 50 homes could be impacted. Base officials went to those homes to ask residents to allow them to test their well water.
“The Air Force is committed to protecting human health and ensuring safe drinking water for our Airmen and impacted communities,” Powell said. “We are systematically sampling groundwater and soil where Aqueous Film Forming Foam was released, prioritizing release sites with a higher probability of groundwater contamination.”
Local elected officials have yet to issue a response on the possible well water contamination.
“To date, we have not yet received validated results from the ground water testing that has been conducted,” he concluded.
Residents with well water who are concerned about their water quality can visit Jackson Township’s website, www.jacksontwpnj.net and request a water testing kit.
Video: Large waves pound Seaside Heights on Both Sides
Videos posted today to Facebook show the power and force of waves hitting Seaside Heights on the ocean and bay fronts.
https://www.facebook.com/jlcoccaro/videos/10202603243358013/
https://www.facebook.com/jlcoccaro/videos/10202603286679096/
Nor'Easter Photos: Ortley Beach
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Photos from Ortley Beach during the January 23rd Nor’easter by the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Click photo to view gallery.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_images_carousel images=”93746,93747,93748,93749″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Lakewood Police: Avoid Route 9 & Hurley Avenue for Next Two Hours
AVOID Rt 9 & Hurley Ave for the next 2 hrs due to emergency utility work. Across the Jersey Shore traffic lights have gone out, telephone poles topped and trees fallen. Roads have been closed in Ocean Twp, Jackson Twp and many others. Use caution while driving today during the storm.
Photo: Ocean Twp PD.
Accident Under Investigation in Manahawkin
On January 20th, 2017 at approximately 4:20pm, the Stafford Township Police Department responded to a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles at the intersection of Neptune Drive and Breakers Drive. This is located in Ocean Acres.
Investigation revealed that a 2009 Honda Civic being operated by Julie Ruch, 31 years old of Manahawkin, N.J. was travelling east on Breakers Drive. At this time, he failed to stop for a stop sign, and struck a 2012 Cadillac SRX operated by Kristen Musolf, 35 years old of Manahawkin, N.J. She was travelling north on Neptune Drive.
Ruch sustained a minor head injury, and was transported to Southern Ocean Medical Center via Quality Medical Transport.
Musolf had to be extricated from her vehicle by members of the Stafford Township Volunteer Fire Company. She was later transported to Southern Ocean Medical Center via Stafford Township Volunteer EMS for a complaint of back and leg pain.
The roadway at this location was temporarily closed for approximately 45 minutes, and later reopened.
This accident is still under investigation by Officer Vincent.
Video: Long Branch Fire Department Pulls Man from Ocean
A man was pulled from the Ocean by police and firefighters in Long Branch on Saturday. Video by Jose Agnelo.
https://www.facebook.com/ShoreNewsNJ/videos/963022257130826/
Roof ripped off building in Long Branch
Long Branch Fire Depart reported: Tour 4 clearing up from the scene of storm damage to a beachfront building. The buildings roof membrane separated from the structure. No injuries were reported. Photo: James Quinn.
Military to go Door to Door to Ask Residents for Well Samples; Contaminated Wells Found In Manchester
JACKSON-The Department of Defense ramped up its efforts to get water samples from residents in Jackson near Joint Base MDL whose well water may have been contaminated with fire suppression chemicals over three decades of use at the base.
Read full report: Joint Base operations may have contaminated Jackson well water.
The Air Force is now going door to door to some 40 or 50 properties asking owners for permission to draw water samples after last week’s effort to voluntarily collect those samples.
According to a report, base officials say two private wells in Manchester have already been closed due to contamination.
The Air Force released a statement:
The Department of the Air Force is currently conducting sampling of private drinking water wells for perfluoroctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as part of a sampling program related to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB MDL) because some on-base groundwater locations on base were found to exceed EPA Health Advisory Levels (HALs) for these two compounds. JB MDL is hand delivering informational packages to approximately 40-50 properties in the southeastern portion of Jackson Township near the JB MDL boundary where they are seeking permission from property owners to sample their drinking water well.
After Officer Nearly Struck, Department Reiterates Commitment to Enforce "Move Over" law
JACKSON-The Jackson Police Department says it will be taking violations of New Jersey’s “Move Over” law very seriously. Ocean County has recently installed warning signs along County Line Road in the township and the department says motorists should heed those warnings.
“The Law states that motorists approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or other highway safety vehicles such as maintenance trucks, that are displaying red, blue, or amber flashing lights, must move over one lane if safe to do so,” the department said in a statement. “If not safe to move over, drivers should slow down to below the posted speed limit.”
The purpose of the law is to reduce the number of roadway fatalities and injuries to emergency workers, tow operators, and maintenance personnel operating statewide along our roadways. Several other states have similar versions of this law.
In 2016 alone, approximately 9 police officers nationwide were killed when third party vehicles struck them or their patrol vehicle from behind. That 9 includes NJSP Trooper Sean Cullen who was killed while investigating a separate motor vehicle crash in South Jersey in March of 2016.
The department takes the law seriously. It was former Jackson Memorial High School Student and State Trooper Marc Castellano’s unfortunate death on Route 195 that brought light to the issue which led to the law’s creation.
“Jackson officers have been, and will continue to take enforcement action with respect to this critical law,” the department said. “The Jackson Police Department would like to extend our appreciation to Donna Setaro, the mother of late State Trooper Marc Castellano, for her guidance in this process, and for her unrelenting commitment to this cause. Trooper Castellano, a graduate of Jackson Memorial High School, died after an incident along Interstate 195 in neighboring Howell Township on June 6th, 2010. Trooper Castellano had been assisting with the search for a suspect in an unrelated matter when a motorist accidentally left their lane of travel, and struck and killed him along the side of the highway.”
Jackson police said an inattentive driver last week crashed into one of the department’s patrol vehicles, nearly striking an officer.
On January 16, 2017 at 11:15 pm, Police Officer Greenberger was involved in a road closure on Cedar Swamp Road at Diamond Road due to a previous motor vehicle crash. The officer had his patrol unit, with emergency lights activated, stationed at the intersection near an illuminated street light to block the lane which was also blocked with road flares.
The driver of a 2010 Ford Fusion approached the intersection, drove around the flares in the road and then disregarded the officer who was wearing a reflective vest and utilizing a flashlight to attempt to get the driver’s attention before jumping out of the way, and then crashed into the marked patrol unit. Fortunately there were no injuries in this incident and the driver was issued the appropriate summons.
Police Seek to ID Man Who Stole 82 Year Old Woman's Wallet in ShopRite
https://www.facebook.com/tomsriverpolice/videos/1380054315339614/
TOMS RIVER-On January 17th Officer Scott Fallano responded to the Shoprite located at #2 Route 37 West. Upon arrival he met an 82 year old Manchester woman who was reporting that her wallet was stolen from her shopping cart. The wallet appears to have been removed from her cart around 2pm. The investigation developed a person of interest that our detectives would like to speak to. He is a white man in his 40’s and wears glasses. On the date of the incident he was wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers with white laces. Anyone who can identify the man should contact Detective Tom Grosse at 732-349-0150 extension 1263 or tgrosse@trpolice.org. The man in the attached video can be seen walking from the top of the screen towards the store exit without a shopping cart.
Jackson Student to Perform at Carnegie Hall
JACKSON-Katrina Zangrillo, a student at Jackson Memorial High School has been selected for the 2017 High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. She will perform as a Soprano one in February with the Concert Choir Honors Ensemble. Participation in one of the five Honors Ensembles is limited to the highest-rated high school performers from across the world.
Earlier this year, Katrina Zangrillo auditioned for the Honors Performance Series and was accepted after a review by the Honors Selection Board. Acceptance to the elite group is a direct result of the talent, dedication, and achievements demonstrated in her application and audition recording. Katrina will join other performers from all 49 United States, Guam, two Canadian provinces, and a number of foreign countries for a special performance at world-famous Carnegie Hall, a venue that marks the pinnacle of musical achievement.
According to Morgan Smith, Program Director, “Being selected to the Honors Performance Series is something each Finalist should be extremely proud of accomplishing. We processed more than 18,000 nominations this year and have selected nearly 750 of the most talented student performers from around the world. Working with these conductors and performing at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that these musicians never forget”.
Katrina has studied music for six years and is a member of Concert Choir, A Capella, and Tri-M, at JMHS and is also part of the Saint Aloysius choir. She has participated in the spring musicals at JMHS for the past three years. She has decided to pursue musical theater as a career. She also is active in the study of piano, acting and dance classes. She loves taking workshops at Sweet Music Academy and Count Basie Theater. In response to her selection as a Finalist, Katrina said, “Never in my wildest dreams would I have envisioned myself to be considered for a momentous and impacting honor such as this. Words cannot express how jubilated I feel. To all my fellow contenders, I cannot wait to be united with you to not only create beautiful music, but hopefully form great friendships”.
Finalists will come together in New York City for five days in February 2017. They will have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned conductors, work with other Finalists, and get a taste of New York City. Two performances, an Honors Choral Performance and an Honors Instrumental Performance, will take place Sunday, February 5, and are open to the public. Tickets can be purchased beginning 60 days prior to the performance through the Carnegie Hall box office.
The Honors Performance Series was created to showcase accomplished individual high school performers on an international level by allowing them to study under master conductors and perform in the celebrated venue, Carnegie Hall. The Honors Performance Series is proudly presented by WorldStrides, the nation’s leading educational travel organization. Learn more by visiting www.honorsperformance.org and www.worldstrides.com.
Stafford Police Officers Workout to Help Family in Need
STAFFORD TWP- Stafford Police Officers Anthony Vincent and Jacob Conner participated in a CrossFit competition that benefited a local family in need.
“The Rudd family are coping with a sick child and the benefit raised money to offset some of their financial burdens,” the department said.
Vincent and Conner finished the event in first place.
Fire Chief Kicks in Door; Alerts Occupant
Deputy Fire Chief Letts of the Beach Haven Volunteer Fire Department was driving on Long Beach Boulevard when a call came in over his radio about a fire reported at a nearby commercial building. According to a news release on the department’s Facebook page, Letts, knew the building and knew that there was occupied rental space within the building.
It was shortly after 2am Sunday morning and Letts drove to the building, kicked the door in and notified the person inside the building that it was on fire.
“Deputy Chief Letts noticed smoke in the area and turned around to investigate. Smoke was found to be coming from a commercial property with a residential living unit on the 2nd floor,” the department said. “After calling the fire in to Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Radio Room, knowing this living unit was occupied, Chief Letts kicked the door in and made entry to alert the occupant. At this time a 2nd alarm was requested.”
The fire was located in the attic. With the assistance of Long Beach Township Police officers, the occupant was helped out of the building.
Surf City Volunteer Fire Company arrived on scene and battled the fire with assistance from the Beach Haven, Ship Bottom and High Point Fire Companies. A FAST team from the Stafford Fire Department also was on scene.
The cause is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Route 88 Work Between Railroad and Ocean County Park to Begin
From the Lakewood Police Department:
On or about January 23, 2017 the New Jersey American Water Company will be installing a new water main on Route #88 to replace the current one to provide better service to the community. The project will start at the railroad tracks just east of Monmouth / Railroad Avenues and continue east towards the Ocean County Park. The project is expected to be completed in May of 2017 and will be installed during the evening hours of 8:00 pm to 6:00am to lessen the impact and inconvenience to the community. During the project only the immediate area of construction will close Rt. 88, but a detour has been set up for all wide loads, tractor trailers, transit buses and non local traffic to avoid the area via a bypass of South Clifton Avenue to Cedarbridge Avenue to New Hampshire Avenue back onto Route #88. Any questions or concerns can be directed to Traffic Safety Officer Alex Guzman @ at 732.363.0200 ext. 5321
N.J. Women's March organizers: 'Turn this into a movement'
TRENTON — After a Saturday that drew thousands of people across the state to rally for women’s rights in the face of a political administration they deem hostile, leaders of these marches said they hoped the resistance was just beginning. “This isn’t going to be an isolated moment in time,” said Elizabeth Meyer, the founder and…
Nasty nor'easter bearing down on N.J. with heavy rain, damaging winds, snow, ice
If you thought Monday was going to be an ordinary start to the work week, think again. A nasty nor’easter is heading in our direction and is expected to strengthen during the late morning and afternoon, unleashing batches of heavy rain that could flood streets across New Jersey, and wind gusts as strong as 50 to…
Royals RHP Ventura killed in car crash
Kanas City Royals right-handed pitcher Yordano Ventura was killed in a car crash in his native Dominican Republic on Sunday. He was 25. “It is with a heavy and broken heart that we confirm the passing of Yordano Ventura,” Royals vice president of communications and broadcasting Mike Swanson wrote on Twitter. The hard-throwing Ventura came up…
NJ State Police Chief Condemns Obama's Cuban Law Enforcement Pact
New Jersey State Police Superintendent, Colonel Rick Fuentes’ issued a response to the signing of the US-Cuban Law Enforcement Pact by then President Barack Obama. The measure was one of many 11th hour actions by the former President before the transition of power to President Donald Trump.
Fuentes said:
On Monday, January 16, 2017, the White House signed a law enforcement pact with the government of Cuba that included the sharing of national security information on matters related to fighting terrorism and the scourge of the international narcotics trade. I have read this pact with great interest, as any aspect of the continued negotiations to normalize relations with Cuba impacts our continued advocacy to seek the return of Joanne Chesimard. Chesimard executed New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973 and fled to Cuba after escaping a New Jersey prison in 1979. She is most prominent among a rogue’s gallery of cop killers and domestic terrorists that have been given sanctuary by the Castro regime these past thirty years.
With a continued sense of bewilderment and confusion not uncommon to the course of these negotiations, the pact does not address the return of: Joanne Chesimard; Victor Manuel Gerena, a member of Los Macheteros who was removed from the FBI Top Ten list one month ago; Charlie Hill, a member of the Republic of New Afrika, alleged to have killed a New Mexico state trooper in 1971; or, William Guillermo Morales, the murderous bomb-maker for the Puerto Rican separatist group, FALN.
Their omission from this agreement and from the negotiations-at-large is so glaring as to signal a clear intent by the Obama Administration to ignore these fugitives. By burning the last bridge to this Administration’s opportunity to gain their negotiated return, families who have long suffered the consequences of their terrorist acts and law enforcement everywhere in this country have been shown the back of the hand. An ignominious torch has been passed to the next president.
We are not deterred. I can say, unequivocally, that Governor Chris Christie, State Attorney General Chris Porrino and I remain resolute in our efforts to follow every political course leading to the return of Joanne Chesimard and the other remaining terrorist fugitives. We approach the next presidential administration with a renewed sense of optimism and moral superiority that justice will prevail.
8 arrested on drug charges in Jackson
On Thursday January 19, 2017 two separate incidents resulted in arrests and charges for multiple persons.
At 12:09 am, Police Officer Keith French was on patrol on Sixty Acre Boulevard when he conducted a motor vehicle stop with a 1999 Chevy after making observations of motor vehicle violations. As he approached the vehicle to speak with the driver of the vehicle, he detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside. It was determined that there was an outstanding arrest warrant for the female driver out of Wall Township and she was placed under arrest. A search of the vehicle then resulted in the seizure of marijuana packaged for sale in baggies, a scale, other items consistent with narcotics distribution and cash. The investigation determined that these items were the belongings of the male passenger of the vehicle.
Arrested:
Jahvonte Alexander, age 23 of Ocean Grove. She was processed on the outstanding arrest warrant out of Wall Township and later turned over to the Wall Township Police Department.
Hakeem Smith, age 27 of Freehold. He was processed and charged with possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute. He was later lodged in the Ocean County Jail after being processed.
Police Officers Wes Thomason and Mitch Kafton assisted with the investigation.
The second incident resulted in multiple arrests which were a result of an ongoing investigation of illegal narcotic distribution by the members of the Jackson Police Detective Bureau. The results of the investigation led to the service of a search warrant.
At approximately 5:00 am, detectives and officers, along with members of the Ocean County Special Response Team detained several persons and conducted a search of a residence located on West Commodore Boulevard. That search resulted in the seizure of marijuana, heroin, cash, drug paraphernalia related to narcotics use and distribution and a Taurus Judge 45/410 handgun. Six people were placed under arrest at the scene.
Arrested:
Ramel Andujar, age 23 of Jackson. He was charged with: possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of a controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful possession of a handgun and possession of a weapon while committing certain controlled dangerous substance offenses (possession with intent). He was processed and later lodged in the Ocean County Jail.
Larry Crippen, age 18 of Jackson. He was charged with: possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of CDS with the intent to distribute and receiving stolen property (for a stolen credit card which was recovered). He also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest out of Howell. He was processed and later lodged in the Ocean County Jail.
Jeremiah Hinze, age 19 of Jackson. He was charged with: possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of CDS with the intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.
Faysal Forbes, age 23 of Jackson. He was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance. He was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.
Rebecca Dynov, age 22 of Jackson. She was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance. She was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.
Danielle Helms, age 19 of Jackson. She was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance. She was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.
Berkeley "Meet the Mayor" Scheduled for Monday, January 23rd
BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr., is pleased to announce that he will continue his evening office hours. Mayor Amato’s evening office hours are in addition to his “Meet the Mayor” and “Town Hall” programs, which will also continue in 2017.
“My next two scheduled public evening office hours will be held Monday, January 23rd and Monday, February 13th at Berkeley Town Hall from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Elected officials have an obligation to be as accessible as possible to our constituents. During my time in office, I have held countless “Meet the Mayor” and “Town Hall” meetings, regularly meet with constituents outside of regular business hours, and have created additional avenues for residents to contact local government.” Mayor Amato said.
“Our Hot Line gives residents one-stop access to Township government, enabling the township to more effectively and efficiently respond to resident’s suggestions, concerns or complaints. The Hot Line number is 732-244-7400 Extension 203, and is available 24 hours a day.” Mayor Amato said.
Residents can also email the Mayor directly at: mayor@twp.berkeley.nj.us .
“In addition to the “Hot Line” and my email, residents are encouraged to visit www.berkeleytownship.org and click next to the Mayor’s message to provide suggestions or feedback online, with most residents receiving follow-up the next business day.” Mayor Amato said.
Our Township of Berkeley Facebook Page is new, and is constantly updated with information, and news on the Township.
If you haven’t signed up for our Nixle system, please visit our web site to register to receive important emails and text messages.
“I look forward to continuing my dialog and outreach to residents in 2017.” Mayor Amato said.
Campbell's Makes Soup from 100 Year Old Recipe Using New Jersey Beefsteak Tomatoes
https://www.facebook.com/campbells/videos/10154357490829506/
Campbell’s soup is taking customers back 100 years and deep into their archives. In the back of the vault we discovered they discovered their founder’s original New Jersey based beefsteak tomato soup recipe and decided to not only make the original recipe once again, but package and share a limited batch with consumers.
“We made a limited supply of 10,000 jars using seasonal New Jersey beefsteak tomatoes from southern New Jersey farms,” the company said. “The original Beefsteak Tomato Soup features a perfect balance of texture and sweet and tart flavors — making it just as good as it was 100 years ago.”
Brick High School: Wrestling match a lost opportunity to teach courage, acceptance
Brick Township High School defended itself against parents and adults who criticized the school and it’s wrestlers over the handling of an opportunity to showcase a wrestler with disabilities.
“During this year’s Brick vs Brick Memorial Wrestling match, there was a wonderful opportunity to showcase a very special young man, David Richards,” the district said. “Unfortunately, this opportunity was missed, due to the poor planning, communication and decision making on the part of adults from both schools and administration.”
What could have been a conversation about courage and acceptance turned into something negative, the district said.
“The students on both wrestling teams respect and admire the courage that David exhibits every day,” they added. “It is sad that misinformed adults on social media have questioned our wrestlers’ character and motives, for which they are completely wrong.”
Brick Township High School and its students have a long history of embracing exceptional students.
The Challenger league and many other fine organizations serving students with disabilities began at this school.
“Today, the entire Brick Township High School community celebrates David’s achievements and congratulates him on his Wrestler of the Week Honors,” the district said.
David got his shot to wrestle three days later against Middletown North.
Police: Megan's Law Registrant Offered Console for Sex to Minor
Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Little Egg Harbor Township Police Chief Richard Buzby today announced the arrest of Christopher Wilson, 20, of Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ, for 2nd degree Attempted Sexual Assault and 3rd degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
The arrest stems from an investigation by Ocean County Prosecutor’s Special Victims Unit Detective Stephanie Bayha and Little Egg Harbor Township Police Detective Joel Mahr. The partnering agencies’ investigation, which began in December of 2016, alleges that Wilson offered the victim a gaming system in return for sexual favors.
Yesterday (1/19), Sr. Assistant Prosecutor Christine Lento approved the above charges and Christopher Wilson was arrested. Nicole’s Order (No contact with victim) was implemented by Judge Patricia B. Roe J.S.C. and Wilson was housed in the Ocean County Jail. As of 01-01-2017, under the new bail reform law there is no monetary bail. The defendant is being detained at Ocean County Jail pending further court action.
The media and public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Social Services Information Day at Ocean County College
TOMS RIVER, NJ – Ocean County College’s Career, Employment, &
Man Arrested for Neptune Machete Attack
NEPTUNE-The Neptune Township Police Department responded to the 1100 Block of Heck Ave. at 8:28 pm on 1/19/17 for a reported large fight involving approximately 20 people. Police arrived on scene and were unable to locate any actors. At the same time, two adult males arrived at Jersey Shore University Medical Center with serious but non-life threatening wounds. It was discovered by police that the wounds were a result of the fight at the aforementioned location by a subject who wielded a machete. The first victim was stabbed in the leg and back, while the second subject suffered a large avulsion to the upper arm. Both victims remained at the JSUMC in stable condition.
Through further investigation, Neptune Township Police identified the accused as Nico Durant, 18 years old of Neptune.
At approximately 2:00 am, Neptune Township Police Officer Lay located Durant operating a vehicle on W. Lake Ave. Durant was taken into custody at that time.
Did Joint Base Fire Operations Contaminate Jackson Drinking Water? Base Officials Seeking Private Well Samples
JACKSON-Fire suppression chemicals used for decades in fire training exercises and emergencies at the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst has been found in quantities far exceeding EPA health advisory levels and base officials are asking Jackson residents to send in water samples for testing to determine how much those chemicals spread into the local water supplies.
The Air Force is currently sampling drinking water on base and in other surrounding towns for the presence of perfluoroctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) after base Health Advisory Levels (HAL) were exceeded.
A May 2016 report by The Intelligencer said the foam has been used to put out fuel fires on the base during training exercises and emergencies for decades and has now been detected in base drinking water. An investigation found those chemicals may have reached Jackson water sources.
The EPA said PFOA and PFOS are fluorinated organic chemicals that are part of a larger group of chemicals referred to as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). PFOA and PFOS have been the most extensively produced and studied of these chemicals. They have been used to make carpets, clothing, fabrics for furniture, paper packaging for food and other materials (e.g., cookware) that are resistant to water, grease or stains. They are also used for firefighting at airfields and in a number of industrial processes.
The chemicals were phased out by their primary manufacturer in the United States between 2000 and 2002. Eight major companies have also voluntarily agreed to stop using the chemicals in their products.
“While consumer products and food are a large source of exposure to these chemicals for most people, drinking water can be an additional source in the small percentage of communities where these chemicals have contaminated water supplies,” the EPA said of the chemicals. “Such contamination is typically localized and associated with a specific facility, for example, an industrial facility where these chemicals were produced or used to manufacture other products or an airfield at which they were used for firefighting.”
The EPA suggests levels over 70 parts per trillion (.2 per billion) are acceptable. Testing at the base found PFOA and PFOS levels in the drinking water as high as 580 parts per billion according to tests performed in 2015 by SES Construction and Fuel Services, of Tennessee.
That level is 2,900 times higher than the EPA guidance level, according to the 2016 Independent report.
According to The Intelligencer, the military, in 2015, found 30 possible sites around the base including streams and aquifers that could be transporting the chemicals to water sources outside of the base. A test of those supplies was performed in August of 2016, which led to the notice published by the base this week, calling for voluntary sampling in Jackson and other towns surrounding the base.
“The preliminary assessment did not identify any immediate threats that would warrant sampling off base,” Staff Sgt. Caitlin Jones, a public affairs officer with the joint base, said in an email to The Intelligencer last spring.
Now, those samples are being requested by base officials.
How does PFOA, PFOS affect humans? Studies indicate that exposure to them over certain levels may result in adverse health effects, including developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy or to breastfed infants (e.g., low birth weight, accelerated puberty, skeletal variations), cancer (e.g., testicular, kidney), liver effects (e.g., tissue damage), immune effects (e.g., antibody production and immunity), thyroid effects and other effects (e.g., cholesterol changes).
You can read the full 2016 report at the Intelligencer.
The township this week sent out an “Important message for residents with private drinking wells”, offering free sample testing by the Joint Base. You can find out more on the Jackson Township website at www.jacksontwpnj.net.
Is Jackson’s MUA water safe? According to Jackson MUA Executive Director David Harpell, the water is safe and was recently tested.
“The Joint Bases’ groundwater issues have not and will not affect the public water supply in Jackson,” Harpell said. “Fortunately, due to location and depth of impact, there is no risk to the Jackson Township MUA’s public water supply wells from this problem.”
The Jackson Township MUA was required to test for PFOA and PFOS as part of the USEPA’s Third Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR3) and all 28 samples (14 for PFOA and 14 for PFOS) were below detection limits, according to Harpell.
“With that being said, JTMUA is concerned with the impact to private wells in the area and we have recommended to the Joint Base that they consider extending our water infrastructure to this area if a problem is found during the testing,” He added.
“We are very proud of the water system in Jackson,” Harpell said. “We have spent $30 million in capital improvements in the past 10 years and have major improvements being bid in 2017 (primarily a new water treatment plant and water main extension near Six Flags). These efforts have made our system very robust and resilient even though we have been able to keep rates stable.”
New Jersey Tries to Collect 25 Year Old $106 Debt from Ex-Resident
The long arm of New Jersey’s tax collectors can extend across time and state boundaries.
A former Howell Township resident this week received a notice from the New Jersey Department of Labor seeking to collect a $106 unemployment benefits overpayment. In 1991, the man, who wishes to remain anonymous was a 19 year old working in New Jersey, collecting unemployment after being laid off from his job.
Today, he lives in sunny Florida and thought he had left all of New Jersey’s dysfunctions behind. He left New Jersey in 1994 and doesn’t even remember which job he was laid off from, as so much time has passed.
He didn’t know at the time, but the state paid him a few dollars too much in unemployment that year.
Twenty-five years later, now 44, he received a notice from the state demanding that he returned the $106 paid to him during his teen years to the state. If he did not pay, the state threatened to turn the matter over to the Internal Revenue Service under the Treasury Offset Program, the debt collection arm of the federal government.
Although debtors of private entities in New Jersey are protected by a six year statute of limitations, there is no statute of limitations in the state when it comes to overpayment of unemployment benefits.
This form of debt collection is very common in New Jersey. A simple Google search turned up dozens of others who received the same letter.
It turns out New Jersey can be relentless in collecting these debts, chasing debtors across state lines in a vigorous attempt to return the money back to the state.
What most people don’t realize is that you don’t necessarily have to pay that debt and the state sometimes settles for less. Residents also can file an appeal with the Department of Labor if they can prove the overpayment was entitled to them.
In this case, the debt was settled for just $31.08, the cost a few nails to help pay for the $300 million state house renovation project, perhaps.
Brick truck driver involved in fatal crash
HAMILTON TWP-On 1/17/2016 at 12:22 pm the Township of Hamilton Police Department responded to Route 40 and Cantillion Blvd for a motor vehicle crash.
Investigation revealed that a 2015 International tractor trailer operated by Frank Alibrando, age 56, of Brick, NJ was traveling eastbound on Route 40 approaching Cantillion Blvd. A Toyota sedan traveling westbound on Route 40 crossed the center line and struck the tractor trailer.
The driver of the sedan was killed, Alibrando was not injured. Identification of the deceased is pending notification of family members.
Assisting at the scene were the Township of Hamilton Rescue Squad, Mays Landing and Laureldale Fire Departments, NJ State Medical Examiner’s Officer and the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. The investigation into the crash is continuing.
Lacey first responders recognized for saving woman from burning home
by Chief Michael DiBella, Lacey PD
LACEY-On Tuesday evening, January 17, 2017, the Lacey Township Board of Education honored Police Officers Anthony Sarno and Christopher Meyler, along with Forked River Firefighter Edward Barker, Jr., for saving an elderly woman from her burning home November 25, 2016. During the Lacey School Board meeting, High School Principal Greg Brandis spoke about the incident and honored all three alumni for their actions, providing each with a certificate. Several officers from the Lacey Township Police Department, along with members of the Forked River Fire Department, Mayor Peter Curatolo and Committeeman Gary Quinn were present. Officer Sarno graduated in 2003, Officer Meyler in 2007, and Edward Barker, Jr in 2010.
The incident occurred on Friday, November 25, 2016, at 12:09 a.m. Officers Christopher Meyler, Anthony Sarno, and Julie Barcalow responded to the 1800 block of Serpentine Drive in Forked River, in regard to a fire alarm. The fire alarm notification was followed by a second call, from a neighbor reporting heavy smoke coming from the residence. Upon Officer Meyler’s arrival, he observed a large concentration of flames coming from the rear of the ranch-style home. Officer Meyler located two adult female occupants (visitors from Massachusetts), who advised that they were able to exit from the fire, however, the 81-year-old female homeowner was still inside. Officer Meyler soon discovered the woman was trapped inside the attached garage. Officer Meyler broke an exterior garage window and entered inside in an attempt to reach the homeowner. Officers Julie Barcalow, Anthony Sarno, and Scott Keefe arrived on scene to assist. Officer Sarno entered the garage, along with two Forked River Volunteer Firemen, Rob Anderson and Edward Barker, Jr. The four of them were able to successfully transfer the woman homeowner outside through the garage window. The homeowner, and the two female visitors from Massachusetts, ages 64 and 35, were transported to Community Medical Center for smoke inhalation. Officers Meyler and Sarno were also taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries.
In addition to Officers Anthony Sarno and Christopher Meyler, both Officers Julie Barcalow and Scott Keefe were recognized on December 9, 2016, by Chief Michael C. DiBella for their actions involving the November 25, 2016 fire. In addition, I would like to acknowledge that Forked River Firefighter Rob Anderson was as instrumental as all in saving the woman’s life. Furthermore, I need to acknowledge Forked River Fire Chief Raymond Brandmahl for his actions November 25, 2016.
I would like to thank the Lacey Township Board of Education for taking the time to honor the involved police officers and firefighters. Additionally, I would like to once again honor all of the involved police officers and firefighters who helped save this woman’s life back on November 25, 2017. In addition to our officers, our Emergency Services Personnel are truly an asset to Lacey Township and I thank them.
On the way out: Obama pardons last round of criminals, including Chelsea Manning
President Barack Obama issued what will likely be his final commutations and pardons as commander in chief on Tuesday afternoon. The commutations were for 200 people, including Chelsea Manning, the army private and analyst sent to prison for revealing secret U.S. military and government information that effectively gave birth to WikiLeaks, the whistleblowing website. Most of…
Food gone digital…University students inching us closer to replicators?
Could food be about to go digital? A team of engineers at Columbia University think so. They’re working with chefs to create a 3D home food printing machine. Digital cooking could be coming to your kitchen. And it could have major implications for nutrition and health care in a future of highly customized food production. “In…
Scholarship yanked from NJ football player weeks before signing day
Ryan Dickens beamed for the crowd Sunday night, his mind racing over all he had accomplished and the future he was ready to tackle. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound senior linebacker from Raritan High School had just been honored with a 2016 Mini Max Award for his football excellence, strong academics and devotion to community service, which includes…
George W. Bush Paints Portraits of American Warriors Wounded in Combat During His Presidency
The Crown Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, announced today that it will publish a new book by George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States. Titled PORTRAITS OF COURAGE: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors, the book features 66 full-color portraits and a four-panel mural personally painted by President Bush of service members and veterans who have served our nation with honor, and whom the President has come to know personally since leaving office.
“Over the past several months, I’ve painted the portraits of 98 wounded warriors I’ve gotten to know – remarkable men and women who were injured carrying out my orders,” the former President said.
The book will be released by Crown in print and digital formats in the United States and Canada on February 28, 2017. The book will be simultaneously issued in unabridged audio formats by Penguin Random House Audio, with the text of the stories read by President Bush. President Bush was represented in negotiations by Robert Barnett of Williams & Connolly, with Crown acquiring world, electronic, and serial rights to the work.
Since leaving Washington, President Bush has made it a priority to support and honor America’s veterans as they re-enter civilian life, and PORTRAITS OF COURAGE is an integral part of that mission. It is President Bush’s hope that these stories of courage and resilience will honor our men and women in uniform, highlight their family and caregivers who bear the burden of their sacrifice, and help Americans understand how we can support our transitioning veterans and empower them to succeed.
President Bush will donate his net author proceeds from the book to the George W. Bush Presidential Center, a non-profit organization whose Military Service Initiative works to ensure that post-9/11 veterans and their families make successful transitions to civilian life with a focus on gaining meaningful employment and overcoming the invisible wounds of war.
Orlando Cop Killer Captured
Markeith Loyd, who murdered Sade Dixon and her unborn child in December, and shot and killed OPD Lt. Debra Clayton last week, in in OPD custody.
https://www.facebook.com/wftv/videos/10154645258328145/