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Post by admin on Jan 5, 2009 7:42:52 GMT -5
Yesterday's meeting was mostly the typical re-org meeting. People were appointed to committees, professional service contracts awarded, and all the usual.
Congratulations are in order for Councilmen George Shnurr and Michael DiBenedetto. They earned their seats and will try serve our town well.
Congratulations also go to Marc Le Vine who was elected by of council vote to the position of council president.
There were no public comments during this meeting, but all of the council addressed those in attendance. The theme of all of their comments came down to community. That was appropriate because those in the room are some of the many people who are active in town and care about seeing our town thrive. The governing body did express what can be considered a cautious optimism. Cautious because we all recognize that the economy and other concerns still exist and may present many difficulties.
When Marc spoke, he spoke of the small town values and the close knit community which we all strive for. Marc actually sounded very conservative. I wonder what the chance is that he will come hack from the dark side and join the GOP? Just kidding, he would never get elected in this town again.
Jaye Sims mentioned that this coming year he wishes to get more people involved and volunteering in this town. I know we will be seeing more of this in the future, including a volunteer fair. I am happy to say that I hope to be working with him on this. Jaye has a lot of very good ideas.
IMO, the best talk came from Councilman Kane. He really drove home the community theme and he did it well. It was from him that we heard the announcement of Old Freehold Day coming back. He also mentioned our Memorial Day Parade and the rightful pride our town has in it. Our parade is one of the largest and oldest in the state. Kane mentioned how every year he walks in it, there seams to be more and more people watching.
Kane mentioned the SPOOKTACULAR events. With all the work of several volunteers in town, we have seen this grow to going beyond a community event. It draws people from all over the county who can enjoy the free events.
Other things mentioned were the revival of the American Hotel, street projects, and upgrades going from the court house into down town.
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Post by admin on Jan 5, 2009 8:12:08 GMT -5
One other point that was mentioned several times yesterday was the need for fiscal responsibility and resraint due to declining revenues. Here is the APP article. I thnk the head line is misleading, there was far more emphasis on positive things than not. www.app.com/article/20090105/NEWS01/901050318/1285/LOCAL09Freehold council faces challenges in '09 Plans noted at organization session FREEHOLD — Borough Council members said they anticipate challenges and changes for the town in 2009 but retained a sense of optimism as they organized for the new year Sunday. Democratic Councilmen Michael DiBenedetto and George Schnurr were sworn in for three-year terms at the beginning of the crowded meeting, keeping the governing body all-Democratic. Incumbents DiBenedetto and Schnurr defeated Republican challengers Michael Louis Lichardi and Ted Miller in the November election. Councilman Marc Le Vine was unanimously voted council president, replacing DiBenedetto in that role. The council elected four members to public safety posts: Kevin Kane, police commissioner; Jaye Simsto, assistant police commissioner; Sharon Shutzer, fire commissioner; and DiBenedetto, assistant fire commissioner. Mayor Michael Wilson said the council anticipates working in a new political climate, with changes throughout the federal, state and local levels. He praised the re-election of Schnurr and DiBenedetto. "These two share my passion and love for this town," he said. Wilson discussed upcoming changes to the borough, including the repaving and resurfacing of Ward Avenue, Conover Street and Sheriff Street during the summer, brick sidewalk installation, safer intersection crossings and tree plantings. Public bids for the work will go out soon, and the cost of the sidewalks will be offset by a Community Block Development Grant for which the borough has qualified, he said. The historic American Hotel on Main Street is slated to reopen around June under new owner Steve Goldberg, Wilson said. Outfitted with a steak house restaurant, a catering facility and 22 hotel rooms, the establishment once again will make the area the "social center of western Monmouth County," the mayor said. Council members gave short speeches about their hopes for the new year and praised community members and volunteers who assist the borough. Schnurr said his goal in the election was not just to retain his seat, but to continue to "implement policies that would solve problems in Freehold and improve people's lives." He said he was "humbled" by the response of borough voters to keep DiBenedetto and himself on the council. Schnurr said that the council already has several initiatives in the works for 2009, including more frequent budget reviews to ensure better fiscal responsibility, exploring the use of volunteer and charitable groups to rehabilitate housing stock and assist the borough's needy and elderly citizens, a continued effort with the Police Department and chief to solve traffic-safety issues and a reworked taxicab ordinance, and possible revision of the borough's landlord-registration ordinance. DiBenedetto, a longtime council member, said he respects the candidates who ran against him. Though the council is a single-party body, it still will be able to act on behalf of all borough residents, he said. "We all may be one party, but we are a diverse group," DiBenedetto said. Jennifer Bradshaw: (732) 888-2621 or jbradshaw@app.com |
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Post by novillero on Jan 5, 2009 9:29:41 GMT -5
One other point that was mentioned several times yesterday was the need for fiscal responsibility and resraint due to declining revenues. Here is the APP article. I think the head line is misleading, there was far more emphasis on positive things than not. In fact, you can barely make out what the challenges are from reading this article. Brian, you reported better what those challenges were than this entire article. |
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Post by Bermuda98 on Jan 5, 2009 13:09:53 GMT -5
Brian...with regard to the Court House upgrades, was it mentioned whether that would include plantings in and around Monument Park?
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Post by admin on Jan 5, 2009 19:51:51 GMT -5
One other point that was mentioned several times yesterday was the need for fiscal responsibility and resraint due to declining revenues. Here is the APP article. I think the head line is misleading, there was far more emphasis on positive things than not. In fact, you can barely make out what the challenges are from reading this article. Brian, you reported better what those challenges were than this entire article. While our town certainly does have many challenges ahead, the meeting really didn't focus on that. While the governing body touched upon a few things, the theme was very upbeat, community minded and still with an optimism for the future here. I think the APP was looking for an attention getting headline. God forbid they say something like " Freehold Rocks and looks ahead to better days." The weird part, I could swear I saw Kim Predham there, but her name isn't even on the article. In fact, you can barely make out what the challenges are from reading this article. Brian, you reported better what those challenges were than this entire article |
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Post by admin on Jan 5, 2009 19:54:50 GMT -5
Brian...with regard to the Court House upgrades, was it mentioned whether that would include plantings in and around Monument Park? That is a very good question! I did not hear the answer the other day. The county did do a lot of work there and it is looking better. With the town enhancing the walks to the court house, your suggestion would make sense. this could be a good project for the NPC. Also, this suggestion would bode well for the Jazz/Blues concert the Rec committee is planning there. |
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Post by novillero on Jan 5, 2009 23:08:50 GMT -5
Brian...with regard to the Court House upgrades, was it mentioned whether that would include plantings in and around Monument Park? That is a very good question! I did not hear the answer the other day. The county did do a lot of work there and it is looking better. With the town enhancing the walks to the court house, your suggestion would make sense. this could be a good project for the NPC. Also, this suggestion would bode well for the Jazz/Blues concert the Rec committee is planning there. Brian, the concert is at Monument Park at the courthouse, or at Veteran's Park down the road? |
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Post by admin on Jan 6, 2009 7:44:33 GMT -5
That is a very good question! I did not hear the answer the other day. The county did do a lot of work there and it is looking better. With the town enhancing the walks to the court house, your suggestion would make sense. this could be a good project for the NPC. Also, this suggestion would bode well for the Jazz/Blues concert the Rec committee is planning there. Brian, the concert is at Monument Park at the courthouse, or at Veteran's Park down the road? I could be wrong, but I believe it is slated for the court house. |
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Post by admin on Jan 6, 2009 9:13:49 GMT -5
Here is a word for word exerpt from Council President Marc Le Vine's speech at the re-org. I really liked this part and it shows a great direction for our town.....
We also strive to create a model community, respected for our small town charm, our diversity and the manner in which we all live together as neighbors and as friends. Freehold Borough is a fun place to live, because our residents want to know their neighbors better and enjoy their company. The town and its committees are working hard to create more opportunities for this to take place. While many towns pride themselves in “moving ahead” with 21st century living, Freehold Borough has made its own brand of success by going back to much simpler times, when neighbors borrowed a cup of sugar, which lead to a 40 year friendship; when Mrs. Smith offered holiday carolers some hot chocolate on a cold night in late December and when Mr. Jones checked in on the elderly folks next door, before going to bed. This is what our RetroTown seeks to bring back and cherish. After a stressful day at work, isn’t it great coming home to Freehold Borough, where good and wholesome is making a comeback.
Yes, 2009 will be an especially challenging year for everyone in America. But, I hope we, up here, can promise you this…as tough as it may eventually get for some of us and as painful it may become for many local families, we will all pull together and make it through these hard times. Mayor and Council will work very hard for our town and do our parts helping everyone transition to the better economic times that surely lie ahead. We even plan a community job fair in April to help those of us that are unemployed. Whatever it takes, we will try our best and be there for you. We must all be positive and be open to working together to solve our problems. In the end, everything will be OK and Freehold Borough will have become a great place to celebrate an entire community of residents being there for one another. Happy New Year and thank you all for coming out!
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Post by richardkelsey on Jan 6, 2009 13:06:19 GMT -5
Here is a word for word excerpt from Council President Marc Le Vine's speech at the re-org. I really liked this part and it shows a great direction for our town..... We also strive to create a model community, respected for our small town charm, our diversity and the manner in which we all live together as neighbors and as friends. Freehold Borough is a fun place to live, because our residents want to know their neighbors better and enjoy their company. The town and its committees are working hard to create more opportunities for this to take place. While many towns pride themselves in “moving ahead” with 21st century living, Freehold Borough has made its own brand of success by going back to much simpler times, when neighbors borrowed a cup of sugar, which lead to a 40 year friendship; when Mrs. Smith offered holiday carolers some hot chocolate on a cold night in late December and when Mr. Jones checked in on the elderly folks next door, before going to bed. This is what our RetroTown seeks to bring back and cherish. After a stressful day at work, isn’t it great coming home to Freehold Borough, where good and wholesome is making a comeback.
Yes, 2009 will be an especially challenging year for everyone in America. But, I hope we, up here, can promise you this…as tough as it may eventually get for some of us and as painful it may become for many local families, we will all pull together and make it through these hard times. Mayor and Council will work very hard for our town and do our parts helping everyone transition to the better economic times that surely lie ahead. We even plan a community job fair in April to help those of us that are unemployed. Whatever it takes, we will try our best and be there for you. We must all be positive and be open to working together to solve our problems. In the end, everything will be OK and Freehold Borough will have become a great place to celebrate an entire community of residents being there for one another. Happy New Year and thank you all for coming out!
Well -- who doesn't want that. Look, Marc bleeds colonial blue. The man loves Freehold, and he wants it to be the town he describes above. I have never doubted that for one minute -- even if I think he has been wrong on his approaches from time to time in making that happen. Marc is in it for Freehold first, which is more credit than I will give some. The question, however, is how do we get there? How do we become that town where Mr. Jones, Mr. Smith, Mr. Hernandez, Mr. Worsely, or any other Mr. can feel like they are living in one diverse, yet unified and open hometown -- a 21st century Bedford falls, if you will. I think everyone in this town, save a handful, are for that mission. It's the how that is critical. Fair or unfair -- it is accurate to say that this council, save a new member or two, presided over significant policy decisions and changes that exacerbated a significant change in the Town's make-up and culture. Not too long ago, this town was not just a place where neighbors could borrow sugar from one another, it was a place where foreign nationals created card-board cities on both public and private property. It was a place where renegade tax dodgers traveled from New York and PA just to pick up illegal laborers in an open air market of illegal labor. Now -- no one can possibly say that the invasion of the US by illegal aliens was the sole fault of Mayor and council. But, make no mistake, the environment created by Mayor and Council in opening the muster zone sent word literally across the country and to South America that Freehold was an illegal labor camp and sanctuary city. Once Mike actually figured that out, he made a small effort to correct course, before essentially adopting the policy of cooperation and interaction. Thus, he has cemented the changes in Freehold. Now, federal authorities will make those changes permanent -- and Freehold will need to have a plan for integration that permits its history and culture to survive and grow, rather than to be changed permanently. These pages have discussed the "vision" plan with an eye toward the business, buildings, roads, and landscape of Freehold. Now it is time to have an action plan for her people. It is time to figure out how to integrate the soon to be new legal residents into Freehold, without creating a working, rental, slum-town where commerce centers around county government by day, and the town empties at night. (see e.g. Trenton) So -- sign me up not for yesterday -- but for tomorrow. Sign me up for a thoughtful, intelligent, bold, cogent, comprehensive plan that will transform the Borough's new residents, accept the great and vibrant parts of their culture, and keep the Town's sacred identity. I'd sure like to read that plan. |
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cloris
Novice
Power to the peeps!
Posts: 61
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Post by cloris on Jan 6, 2009 19:59:38 GMT -5
I like Councilman Levines words. He describes the people in this town very well. My neighbors fit his description perfectly. We do have problems and it will be good to hear more about what will be done to alleviate those problems.
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Post by patriciamoore47 on Jan 7, 2009 11:47:31 GMT -5
Richard I have been following your posts for quite awhile now and because of you I decided to become an authorized member. You should feel very proud of that.
I would like to know what your solution is? You have shown us over and over again what the problem is but you never given us any realistic solutions.
Bless his heart. Councilman Levine shared with us an optimistic viewpoint of where he would like to see the town go. Whether or not they are able to be accomplished is not the important part. It is that he is thinking and offering ideas. While he is showing where he would like the town to go, you continue to share with us where you see the town in the past. How is that helping any of us who live in town?
If you think I am not one of your fans, that is not true. I voted for you when you ran. But I will tell you this, darling, without any proposed viable solutions coming from your end and just a whole lot of acerbic criticism being posted on this board, I can now see why you did not get elected and wish to rescind my vote. You need to tell us what we can hope for, not simply shut everyone's ideas down if they do not come from you.
I was also quite disappointed by your letter a couple years ago you sent in to the opinions section of the transcript. It was a travesty. As a teacher, I have always taught my students the "sandwich method," which is to state something good about the situation, then state the problem, and then end it with something good. The reason for this is that you want to always come across as a good sport and want to leave someone feeling good. It seems like you have learned the "bologna method." You don't offer any bread.
Frankly, I think you need to please take heed of my advice. Incidentally, I have lived in this beautiful town for 57 years now. I originally moved from Matawan. Freehold Borough is my home and I cherish it. I am going to tell you now what I tell my good friend Barbara all of the time, lighten up. You only live once.
Patricia
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Post by richardkelsey on Jan 7, 2009 14:43:46 GMT -5
Richard I have been following your posts for quite awhile now and because of you I decided to become an authorized member. You should feel very proud of that. I would like to know what your solution is? You have shown us over and over again what the problem is but you never given us any realistic solutions. Bless his heart. Councilman Levine shared with us an optimistic viewpoint of where he would like to see the town go. Whether or not they are able to be accomplished is not the important part. It is that he is thinking and offering ideas. While he is showing where he would like the town to go, you continue to share with us where you see the town in the past. How is that helping any of us who live in town? If you think I am not one of your fans, that is not true. I voted for you when you ran. But I will tell you this, darling, without any proposed viable solutions coming from your end and just a whole lot of acerbic criticism being posted on this board, I can now see why you did not get elected and wish to rescind my vote. You need to tell us what we can hope for, not simply shut everyone's ideas down if they do not come from you. I was also quite disappointed by your letter a couple years ago you sent in to the opinions section of the transcript. It was a travesty. As a teacher, I have always taught my students the "sandwich method," which is to state something good about the situation, then state the problem, and then end it with something good. The reason for this is that you want to always come across as a good sport and want to leave someone feeling good. It seems like you have learned the "bologna method." You don't offer any bread. Frankly, I think you need to please take heed of my advice. Incidentally, I have lived in this beautiful town for 57 years now. I originally moved from Matawan. Freehold Borough is my home and I cherish it. I am going to tell you now what I tell my good friend Barbara all of the time, lighten up. You only live once. Patricia Patricia -- thanks for the response. I am a bit perplexed by it really. My above post seems to follow your "sandwich" method very nicely. I start by saying a great number of really nice things about Mr. LeVine -- bless his heart. :-) I then point out something that you accuse me of -- which is that his statements of longing for yesteryear require more than just longing -- they require a plan and ideas. (I believe your post above takes me to task for not having ideas. That is what I say of Mr. LeVine -- though not nearly as strongly as you have accused me.) Indeed, my post above states very clearly that we need to develop a vision study for integration in this town given the practical reality of what will soon happen with amnesty. Now, it is true that I did not take the time to write that plan out, but I strongly suggest that it is critical to achieve the goals I discuss, which presumably you share. As you point out, I am not an elected member of the Council. Thank you, however, for your vote in 1986. I am not sure how to return it to you -- but I nonetheless thank you for it at the time. History makes abundantly clear that the results of the election were, in fact, a travesty. I do appreciate you taking the time to join the voice. Since you have been following my posts, you know that I have been pushing very hard for people to get involved. Indeed, I have been involved trying to help the quality of life in my hometown ever since my departure. I've not done it for profit, political appointment, or future government benefits. I have done it because I share the same deep affection you express for Freehold. Indeed, just this past year I was delighted to submit a few ideas and suggestions for the positive campaign about Freehold. The slogan "Borough Pride is Revolutionary" is my positive contribution to that effort. I am sorry that I have let you down in some way. You seem to harbor some wounds from my final frustration with Mayor Wilson. I won't rehash the long history here, but suffice to say that you can read all about it in the numerous posts set out herein. Re-reading your post, I have to disagree with the conclusions you reach about me and my latest post. I start with a very strong endorsement of Marc and his passion. I clearly set out the pressing need for this council to have a strong plan to integrate, welcome, restore, and keep sacred the Borough's culture as it integrates new and likely prospective new residents. I see nothing wrong with teaching people to say nice things about others. However, critical, analytical, adult writing need not always use those vehicles, particularly when the author is trying to energize thought. Happy is not necessarily a substitute for substance and analysis. I love doing happy, but that doesn't mean I teach it to my law students as a primary vehicle for communication and persuasive writing. When I was in the Borough, I was very active -- right up until my departure in June of 1996. At that time, I served on a committee studying the need for school expansion. I was very straightforward about the causes of the overcrowding, and I was unashamed at my analysis and discussion. In the end, however, I was also very fair -- fair enough to be elected one of the spokespersons of that 30 person committee. Do not confuse analysis of facts with ad hominem criticism. As for coming across as a good sport -- that's just not always possible. If I wanted to be liked or even elected, I would tell people what they want to hear -- not what I think they need to hear. We have, in my opinion, built an entire apparatus of government based upon dumbing down our discourse, and telling the people what they want to hear to get elected. Sorry -- that's not me. What has transpired in Freehold since the late 80's is a travesty. It is a disgrace to the Federal government, but it is an even greater disgrace to our local government. They took too long to act. The acted very badly by encouraging the activity. Then, they violated the law by taking bad actions to try to correct their mistakes. Then they gave up and decided to throw in with the illegal aliens behind closed doors, while telling the people on their side of town what they wanted to hear. The result has been an unmitigated disaster. I am no arm chair quarterback either, I have been talking about this issue since I coined the phrase illegal invader in the early 1990s. As for offering help and real solutions -- I did that. I offered help with outside groups and agencies. I offered help to connect with other successful municipalities, and as well-documented, I brought myself and other outside counsel from one of the largest law firms in the world to offer help. I have offered tons of advice, suggestions, and yes, criticism in newspapers and in this forum for more than a decade. I have implored others to help, and I even went so far as to lay out exactly what I would have done -- you must have missed that specificity, as you say I have never offered solutions. In all the years I have been working to help the town in which you live -- I have never come across you until your post today. I do not doubt one bit your love of Freehold. Thank you for joining. Thank you for caring -- even if you only care enough to think me the problem, and not part of the solution. Thank you for joining, and please stay active. Let your voice be heard, even in dissent. The absence of dissent is the death of democracy. I stand by what I wrote above in my post. The battle against illegal immigration in Freehold is lost. I predicted it would be lost absent extraordinary efforts -- and I have proven correct. For the last 10 years, most people have been calling me crazy for one reason or another as I have fought the illegal invasion. Facts are facts, and it turns out I was correct. I wish I had been as wrong as so many claimed I was. Anyway -- this is your town. You have to make of it what you want. Being a voice that is heard in any debate-- is always positive. If you have joined just to criticize me -- even that represents a positive step. You can join a growing line of people who want to target a person who never invaded your town illegally, never forgot his home town, never stopped fighting for it, was never afraid to take criticism, and never tried to profit from the town economically, politically, or for future considerations. I did not ask the illegals to come. I did not set up a place for them conspire with unscrupulous contractors. I never hired them. I never tied to remove them through illegal means. I never appointed them or their advocates. I never bowed to their advocates. I never brought down national publicity and packed rooms of protesters for my actions. Instead, I have always been an advocate for law abiding, tax-paying, legal residents and legal immigrants. I have done so not for fame or fortune -- and not to protect myself or my property. I live quite comfortably elsewhere. I could have done like so many others, moved out and given up. Or worse, stayed there and given up. I may not write happy, feel-good letters praising people for things they have not done, but I also was never quiet while Rome burned. As for solutions -- don't assume that the failure of others to act with courage results from my failure to provide a definitive, comprehensive, legal and political solution. The record of just my publicly offered solutions is quite clear -- you have a great deal of back reading to do. Since you are an old fan -- it should be fun. BTW -- If making you made though my postings is what it takes to get you involved in the site, and hopefully the town -- I consider that a great success. Just think, if I had given you just another happy sandwich, you might not have joined. Welcome -- and stay after me. PS -- I exalted you for joining and being heard. |
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Post by patriciamoore47 on Jan 7, 2009 15:42:28 GMT -5
Well I certainly thank you for writing such a long response to me. I feel like I may have unfortunately hit a nerve there and I am sorry if I did. The last thing I would want to do is target an emotionally wounded individual. Trust me, having dealt with youngsters for most of my career, I have become pretty astute at perceiving someone's emotional undertones. Have you ever read Hamlet? One of the most important quotes I teach my students is when Queen Gertrude states, "Methinks the lady doth protest too much." Sometimes the longer the response is, the more giving it is of the person's protestation. I am very sorry if I upset you.
You do bring up a worthwhile point, which is that one does not always need to speak positively. In truth, I would like to believe you make your case. But once again it does come back to credibility. If you are to always speak negatively about a subject, your readers are lead to assume you are not evenly balanced in your criticism. Reading between the lines we can all assume that means you are, as my Aunt Margaret used to say, "lopsided in your opinion." Ever hear someone complain too much? It not only tells a lot about the person indirectly but it also makes people run away. Remember Gladys Kravitz?
Illegal immigration is not news to me or anyone in my town. At the same time, it is not the be all and end all of it as you would like us to believe. When you twist everyone's words back into the topic of illegal immigration you show us all that you are a one-trick pony. When you do not offer any or many solutions, you also don't add any value to the discourse.
Mr. Kelsey, please tell us why we should all take heed of your advice, when you were the first one to run from the town 13 years ago? Haven't you ever heard of people complaining about America being told to move to Canada? You have obviously moved to "Canada," so would you not be the last person we would want to hear criticism about Freehold from?
You are only as good as your last efforts. While you may have volunteered or offered your time before you moved, you still have not done anything since you moved. It is clear as a bell, having known your father Eugene for many years and having read his one-topic diatribes to the transcript, that the worm-infested apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.
Patricia
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Post by richardkelsey on Jan 7, 2009 16:44:26 GMT -5
Well I certainly thank you for writing such a long response to me. I feel like I may have unfortunately hit a nerve there and I am sorry if I did. The last thing I would want to do is target an emotionally wounded individual. Trust me, having dealt with youngsters for most of my career, I have become pretty astute at perceiving someone's emotional undertones. Have you ever read Hamlet? One of the most important quotes I teach my students is when Queen Gertrude states, "Methinks the lady doth protest too much." Sometimes the longer the response is, the more giving it is of the person's protestation. I am very sorry if I upset you. You do bring up a worthwhile point, which is that one does not always need to speak positively. In truth, I would like to believe you make your case. But once again it does come back to credibility. If you are to always speak negatively about a subject, your readers are lead to assume you are not evenly balanced in your criticism. Reading between the lines we can all assume that means you are, as my Aunt Margaret used to say, "lopsided in your opinion." Ever hear someone complain too much? It not only tells a lot about the person indirectly but it also makes people run away. Remember Gladys Kravitz? Illegal immigration is not news to me or anyone in my town. At the same time, it is not the be all and end all of it as you would like us to believe. When you twist everyone's words back into the topic of illegal immigration you show us all that you are a one-trick pony. When you do not offer any or many solutions, you also don't add any value to the discourse. Mr. Kelsey, please tell us why we should all take heed of your advice, when you were the first one to run from the town 13 years ago? Haven't you ever heard of people complaining about America being told to move to Canada? You have obviously moved to "Canada," so would you not be the last person we would want to hear criticism about Freehold from? You are only as good as your last efforts. While you may have volunteered or offered your time before you moved, you still have not done anything since you moved. It is clear as a bell, having known your father Eugene for many years and having read his one-topic diatribes to the transcript, that the worm-infested apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Patricia Well -- see now we have exposed a bit of the truth. You are not now, nor have you ever been a fan. Indeed, you have not even read my last post, let alone all my other posts as you claimed. That goes directly to your credibility -- not mine. As for the personal attacks on my dad -- that pretty much exposes what this is all about. You have no interest in solving problems, seeking solutions, or entering debates. You are trying to settle some old political score. That's fine by me -- just don't pretend to be someone you are decided not. I have no idea why in your exceedingly narrow view you think me somehow emotionally wounded. Did you retire from teaching and become a psychologist? I am not going to trade insults with you and pretend that it is a substitute for incisive and intelligent debate. I will, however, take a brief moment to correct your misstatement of facts and misrepresentation of reality. As set out above -- I have been very helpful to this town since I left. I did not run away. I left to pursue higher education -- an endeavor I implore you to consider. Since my departure, I have helped the town -- and I answered the personal call of the Mayor -- who called me at my Virginia home to thank me for my positive letter on an issue. I offered I disagreeistance, and he invited me back to Freehold to help. I used the considerable political and professional resources at my disposal to do just that -- free of charge. Indeed, the only time expended was by me and other lawyers -- pro bono. I also traveled to Freehold to meet with the People group and discuss constructive grass-roots activism and ideas. I worked with other groups and individuals to put them in touch with organizations that might be able to help Freehold. Oh -- by the way -- what were you doing all this time? And, yes, I wrote letters. Not just to papers about the council, but to the Council. I made public offers of additional help over these years --including all the ideas I made on here -- none of which you have read. You call me a one trick pony -- yet I have discussed dozens of issues, and I been published on scores of other issues not related to illegal immigration. Perhaps it is your lopsided view of the subject, or blind adoration of a party or politician that shapes your underdeveloped and distorted views. Either way, your misrepresentations and ignorance of my record speak of you, not me. I don't know who you are -- but I hope that all these kids you speak of teaching are not subjected to your wide-eyed political invective and personal anger issues you have exhibited here. The public record is crystal clear Patricia, for the past 13 years I have been fighting for your town and the law abiding citizens in it. For the past 2 hours, you have been trying to settle a political score for an old friend. With your head buried in the sand, and without ever doing anything to help your own town, you ride to the rescue of party and pals by lying about who you are, by misrepresenting the facts of my contributions, and by throwing in some sad personal attacks on me and my father. At 61, I hope you still have the decency to take stock of your actions and reflect, if only in private, with some sense of shame for your inactions and deliberate misrepresentations. Borough Pride is Revolutionary -- for most. For some, its all about party and personal friendships. |
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Post by patriciamoore47 on Jan 7, 2009 19:37:03 GMT -5
Boy oh boy, I think you have overreacted just a bit, and may have unfortunately even embarrassed yourself, so I apologize if you believe I have personally attacked you. Although I don’t think I deserved such an insulting attack on my character. I do apologize for the apple comment. Truthfully, my experiences with your father have shaped my view of him. My sister Lois and I had an unfortunate incident years ago dealing with your father when we dined at his luncheonette. He was quite ill-mannered with us.
So as to not go too far off-topic, let us get back to what originally started this discussion though. Brian simply posted a two-paragraph excerpt from Mr. Levine's speech. He explained that he really liked it. It was not asking to have your critical analysis or your blessing, or anyone else’s for that matter. It just was.
In fact, I did happen to attend the inauguration meeting and heard the whole speech in its entirety and context, which I assume you did not have at your disposal. Fair enough. So, it leaves me a bit befuddled to realize that you, someone who practices law for a living, jumped to conclusions to what else was said in the speech. Furthermore, the event saw many volunteers and people from both parties, as it is meant to be a celebratory event. Again, there was no need for your critical analysis; especially one that was shortsighted and lacking in details. I simply question your motivation of this most recent post, which is so similar to others when people have posted accolades to the mayor and various councilmembers on this site.
There were some other beautiful speeches, aside from Mr. Levine's, including Councilwoman Shutzer's traditional Apache quote and I agree with Brian, Mr. Kane’s speech about the optimism and spirit brought forth by community events and Mr. Simms’ humorous admission of feeling relieved in not having to be re-elected this year.
I would advise you in the future not to speak down to your elders, Mr. Kelsey. They contain the largest wealth of information that you would be wise to simply listen to. You should always show respect to everyone, but always to your elders, as they are old enough and have experienced a lot more to have had the time to foster a greater sense of wisdom than you. It comes from not jumping the gun, in situations such as these.
I have to go on record by saying that I found it a bit presumptuous for you to assign me a political party, when I have never stated it myself in my former two posts. In fact, I have been a lifelong Republican.
Over the years I have cast my votes primarily for the Republican party, but have also voted for Democrats from time to time, at least in local races. I have had the pleasure of voting in elected leaders like the late John Rosseel, Rich Daesener, Lou O’Brien and even Councilman Levine when he was on that ticket. Going back even before them, I have had an even greater pleasure voting for exemplary men such as Bill Boyle and quality man John Dawes.
I happen to know John Dawes. I voted for John Dawes. I was quite impressed with the way John Dawes served the town. But, Mr. Kelsey, I am afraid you are no John Dawes. No one is. He was one of the best public officials we have seen in a long time.
The new brand of Republicans in Freehold and in the local races have left a lot to be desired. After they put that horrible woman on the ticket recently, I questioned what the party has become. With the most recent two races, seeing so many unqualified and unsuitable candidates being added to the Republican ticket, I have been hesitant in my support. I’ve seen too much negativity coming from the party in recent years and not enough fresh, new ideas that actually make sense.
Mr. Kelsey, I admire your drive and your passion. In fact, drive is a virtue I have always tried to instill in my student body. But always remember that misguided drive is worse than having no drive at all.
Patricia
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Post by admin on Jan 8, 2009 8:58:45 GMT -5
Patricia, Welcome to the FV. It is clear that you are well aware of what was going on at the re-org. It was a very nice meeting. I hope one of these days you and I can catch up. I always enjoy meeting the good people of our town. If Rich is in town, the three of us can go out for coffee. You are a Republican? That means the number of us Republicans in the boro is up to four now! ;D We will take over yet!  |
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ka19
Junior Member
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Post by ka19 on Jan 8, 2009 11:07:00 GMT -5
I'm gonna take this conversation on a little bit of a tangent:
Just based on my own avid study of etymology and Shakespeare, the word protest as he meant it was not to describe objection or disagreement.
Over hundreds of years, the word protest has changed in meaning. Back when Shakespeare was around, "protest" meant to vow or to solemnly declare.
For example, the word Protestant describes a person who took a vow...Pro-test. The "test" being from the latin word testis, which means witness. This is the same root word as from "testament" (i.e. witnesses' accounts of the profits' actions on Earth). In other words, pro, meaning "forward", test, alluding to the Testament. The word Protestant, then, literally describes an adherence to the New Testament, and not to some reference to dissension with the King or the Pope, as many mistakenly believe.
So when the Queen in Hamlet is asked by Hamlet what she thinks of the play she is watching, she said "The Lady doth protest too much, methinks."
Her reference was to the character queen in the play, who made such absolute vows of devotion (promising her husband that she would never re-marry if she were to become a widow, in fact, she promises that she will be utterly miserable for the rest of her solitary life), so much so that the Queen, being in the same situation herself, revealed her own mindset by commenting that the lady is basically coming on a little strong...the lady couldn't possibly be that faithful. The Lady doth protest too much. But often overlooked is Hamlet's response to the Queen: "O, but she'll keep her word!" Clearly rubbing it in the Queen's face.
Shakespeare included this exchange to provide some some irony or perhaps a subtle enlightenment into the mindset of the Queen, who herself was in a similar situation as the character queen in the play (who's husband is about to be murdered, just like the Queen's husband was), remarried after the murder of Hamlet's father. It also provided the audience with an example of Hamlet's disgust for the Queen.
The point is that "The Lady doth protest too much, methinks." was most certainly not meant by Shakespeare to be a comment on the credibility of a person who complains a lot.
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Post by novillero on Jan 8, 2009 11:40:17 GMT -5
ka19,
interesting analysis.
I like your new tag line - regarding Rudolph and Chuck Norris.
p.s. APP Datauniverse shows 2 Patricia Moores as public school teachers in the state. Neither teach a class that would involve Shakespeare.
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ka19
Junior Member
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Post by ka19 on Jan 8, 2009 11:44:35 GMT -5
Thank you, but now that Christmas is behind us, I need to change it again. Chuck Norris facts always crack me up.
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Post by novillero on Jan 8, 2009 12:00:43 GMT -5
ha ha ha! The site filter! But quite a few people do have that last name. as long as it isn't me. now, you are going to have to tell us what that "friendly" name was - before the filter got you. hyphenate it. As to Ms. Moore, I'll people decide on their own if she is on the up-and-up. |
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Post by richardkelsey on Jan 8, 2009 12:11:32 GMT -5
Boy oh boy, I think you have overreacted just a bit, and may have unfortunately even embarrassed yourself, so I apologize if you believe I have personally attacked you. Although I don’t think I deserved such an insulting attack on my character. I do apologize for the apple comment. Truthfully, my experiences with your father have shaped my view of him. My sister Lois and I had an unfortunate incident years ago dealing with your father when we dined at his luncheonette. He was quite ill-mannered with us. Well, thank you for the apology. I cannot comment on the incident as I am not familiar with it. Dad was a WWII Marine, who quit school to serve his country. He came back, graduated near the top of his class, raised 7 kids, opened a business, served this town on council, and in innumerable volunteer activities. He does not pull punches -- and he has earned the right to speak his mind. Even moving in on 84, he does not need my defense. Most recently, he received a hate-filled, foul language riddled, anonymous letter attacking him for his letter writing -- addressed to the name "Eugene" -- which you used and no one ever calls him. I hope that this long grudge you hold, which has clearly resulted in the anger and lashing out you have made here, did not compel you to send that letter. So as to not go too far off-topic, let us get back to what originally started this discussion though. Brian simply posted a two-paragraph excerpt from Mr. Levine's speech. He explained that he really liked it. It was not asking to have your critical analysis or your blessing, or anyone else’s for that matter. It just was. This is a discussion board. Brian started the topic, and that traditionally leads to discussion on discussion boards. Getting back to the original post of mine -- I actually said some very nice things about Marc. Why wouldn't I? In fact, unlike your line of personal attack in contravention of facts, my comments were decidedly not personal about Marc -- other than to be laudatory. I merely stated my view on the need for this town to set out a road map for finding a way to reach the goals. It's a bit like one saying one wants us all to be millionaires. That's great, but how does one propose to do it? I suspect that is a very fair question, particularly in this case when the comments discuss goals for the town and are made by a town leader. Frankly, I didn't think my comments all that controversial at all. In fact, I did happen to attend the inauguration meeting and heard the whole speech in its entirety and context, which I assume you did not have at your disposal. Fair enough. So, it leaves me a bit befuddled to realize that you, someone who practices law for a living, jumped to conclusions to what else was said in the speech. I don't think I was jumping to conclusions at all -- I was merely asking for the beef in that happy sandwich. If I missed a substantive plan on how to get there -- which was later detailed in the speech -- please post it. I would love to read it. Furthermore, the event saw many volunteers and people from both parties, as it is meant to be a celebratory event. Again, there was no need for your critical analysis; especially one that was shortsighted and lacking in details. You continue to reference your teaching and your background as if somehow that imbues your arguments with the substance they lack in words. It does not. Don't make conclusory statements without foundation. As demonstrated above, that has proven to backfire on you badly. If you have a problem with my analysis -- which is that the town needs an action plan for integration -- tell me what is wrong with the analysis. Again, you fault me for not giving you the plan. I faulted Marc for not giving me the plan. Whose job is it to have a plan -- mine or his? Am I wrong in my "short-sighted analysis?" Do we not need a plan? Should everyone in Freehold click there heels together and hope that everyone starts passing sugar over the fence again to each other? There is a difference between making a critical comment and providing critical analysis. You have mastered the former, but have yet to exhibit the latter. I simply question your motivation of this most recent post, which is so similar to others when people have posted accolades to the mayor and various councilmembers on this site. Why? Why do you question my motivations? What is it you think I stand to profit from pointing out that Freehold needs a plan to deal with the problem it helped to create and now is stuck with? Am I going to profit politically? No, I am not running for office in Freehold -- or anywhere. Am I going to profit economically? How would that be? Am I going to profit by getting an appointment to some NJ committee that gives me a few bucks on the side? I don't think so. I am, by definition, a party without anything other than a rooting interest. Unlike those who give speeches there, have political ties there, have valuable appointments there, do business there, I have no motivation other than trying to help Freehold. What is your motivation for the personal attacks except for some long held, secret grudge related to a bad dinning experience? I would advise you in the future not to speak down to your elders, Mr. Kelsey. I don't need your advice, and you have not demonstrated in any way why it is that I should take your advice. They contain the largest wealth of information that you would be wise to simply listen to. You should always show respect to everyone, but always to your elders, as they are old enough and have experienced a lot more to have had the time to foster a greater sense of wisdom than you. It comes from not jumping the gun, in situations such as these. Please don't confuse age with wisdom. Wisdom, I recently wrote, is a simple equation. Wisdom is the sum of experience, plus failure, divided by lessons learned. Sadly, many people don’t grow wise by getting old – they just get older, and not a bit more wise. Respect, likewise, is not granted but earned. I show respect and civility to strangers, unless they have done something in particular that tells me no such respect is deserving. For example, attacks, lies, misrepresentations, and attacks on my family members might give me pause to giving respect to a stranger. They very much give me pause to recognizing any "wisdom." I have to go on record by saying that I found it a bit presumptuous for you to assign me a political party, when I have never stated it myself in my former two posts. In fact, I have been a lifelong Republican. Let the record reflect that the witness claims to be a "lifelong republican." Ms. Moore -- I have advised Republican Presidential Candidates. I have advised Governors and gubernatorial candidates. I have advised Republican Attorney General Candidates, statewide, and county chairman. I have ran campaigns, raised money, and written speeches for republicans. I have worked with and helped the most conservative of Republicans, and openly helped and advocated for log Cabin Republicans. You Ms. Moore, in my opinion, are not a Republican. Over the years I have cast my votes primarily for the Republican party, but have also voted for Democrats from time to time, at least in local races. I have had the pleasure of voting in elected leaders like the late John Rosseel, Rich Daesener, Lou O’Brien and even Councilman Levine when he was on that ticket. Going back even before them, I have had an even greater pleasure voting for exemplary men such as Bill Boyle and quality man John Dawes. Don't forget me. I happen to know John Dawes. I voted for John Dawes. I was quite impressed with the way John Dawes served the town. But, Mr. Kelsey, I am afraid you are no John Dawes. No one is. He was one of the best public officials we have seen in a long time. The name dropping here is exhausting me. I am not now, nor have I ever pretended to be someone I am not. My favorite Republican of all time was Ronald Reagan. I am not him either, nor would I want to be. I am happy with who I am. The new brand of Republicans in Freehold and in the local races have left a lot to be desired. After they put that horrible woman on the ticket recently, I questioned what the party has become. And what have you done as a lifelong republican to help the party or change it? Just wondering. Oh -- and getting back to a point I made earlier about harsh, personal attacks and critical comments lacking substance. What horrible woman? And, more importantly, why was she horrible? Oh, and speaking of short-sighted and lacking details, what did you do about it? With the most recent two races, seeing so many unqualified and unsuitable candidates being added to the Republican ticket, I have been hesitant in my support. Could the witness please explain how the candidates were "unqualified" and "unsuitable." Who are we talking about here. Since you are busy dropping names -- why not drop a few here next to your personal attacks. Then, tell us why they are "unqualified" and "unsuitable." Please define "unsuitable." Did you say you were a teacher? I’ve seen too much negativity coming from the party in recent years and not enough fresh, new ideas that actually make sense. Now -- read your attacks just above in this very post -- forget the personal attacks and negativity of your prior posts, and square those attacks on a "horrible woman", "unqualified and unsuitable" candidates, with you now self-righteous use of the term "negativity." Can you see why your credibility might be waning here? Mr. Kelsey, I admire your drive and your passion. In fact, drive is a virtue I have always tried to instill in my student body. But always remember that misguided drive is worse than having no drive at all. This must be part of the sandwich theory you discussed earlier where it is always nice to say something positive about a person. Thanks. I appreciate your teaching anecdotes, and hope that in these posts here there might be some lessons learned for you too. |
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Post by novillero on Jan 8, 2009 13:12:53 GMT -5
One of my favorite statements made during the reorg was when the reverend said during his lovely invocation about God granting us unity in diversity. Something to that effect. I thought it was beautiful and profound. one "exalt" for you. |
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Post by patriciamoore47 on Jan 8, 2009 13:19:43 GMT -5
Well, I certainly did not deserve such a mean-spirited and insensitive attack on my character. Do you have something against people who work in the education field? You have attacked me more than once about my long profession as a teacher. Unfortunately, too many people tend to diminish the importance of teachers, leaving many of us underpaid, overworked and unappreciated, when all we are looking to do is have a positive impact on the lives of our children. Fortunately, it is my passion and I am tenured, but your denunciation certainly does not help.
I wake up every morning with a passion to inspire and educate young men and women. Incidentally, I have had the wonderful opportunity to watch many of my students grow up to lead successful and exemplary lives; many have gone on to leading Ivy League universities and have used their knowledge and experience to become doctors, scientists, reporters and even lawyers, yes, like you Mr. Kelsey.
Let me ask you, what legacy are you leaving behind that allows you to diminish the importance of others, especially those working in education? You have told us that you have been published, but have not said where; you have told us that you have advised candidates and have written speeches, but have not said for whom; and you have stated that you have discussed dozens of issues, yet you only ever seem to focus on one. And with all of that said, why feel the importance to announce and flaunt everything you have ever done, right down to taking the dog out and watering your neighbor's grass? Is it simply to try and win our praise or is it to give you a license to speak in a pedantic fashion to everyone? I have not been able to figure that out yet. Either way, there is an insecurity hidden underneath. Once again, as I have said, I have taught children my entire career and the behavior rings of an odd similarity. By extolling your resume sounds like you feel the deep need to impress people; I dare say you have an immature self-esteem. And you don't need to do this because your intelligence is so strong it speaks volumes. Listen to me on that.
For your information, Mr. Kelsey, my last name is not Moore. You have once again shown that you jump to conclusions. And, I will not give out my real last name, due to a longstanding situation with my ex-husband's family. It's what I have been advised to do based on my attorney's legal counsel. You can address me by Patricia.
Unfortunately, I must head back to the classroom now. My lunch period is over and I have wasted too much time becoming the punching bag for your insolent behavior. But before I go, let me leave you with another piece of information, which I again advise you to heed.
When my mother was growing up in the Irish countryside near Kildare, she used to pass an elderly man on her way to church. His name was Boris and he was a Russian immigrant who had moved to Ireland during the Russian Civil War. He had lost all of his family and fled to Ireland. My mother and my grandparents did not get along too well when my mother was just a teenager and she ran away from home one day. Boris would say "Maire, do you realize that after your parents die, you will be in their shoes? You represent the new blood. Nothing comes before you then." My mother did not understand. "Maire, you will be your parents soon and then you will understand." My mother was very stubborn and did not understand. She now tells me that she finally understood and wishes that she understood this when he told her, because she said it was the most important lesson she has ever learned.
Take care. I know you will understand that lesson as well one day. I hope it is sooner rather than later for your benefit.
Love,
Patricia
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ka19
Junior Member
Posts: 356
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Post by ka19 on Jan 8, 2009 15:05:16 GMT -5
For anyone who is wondering, my real last name is not "19".
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Post by admin on Jan 8, 2009 19:45:00 GMT -5
For anyone who is wondering, my real last name is not "19". Just for that, from now on I will call you Mr. 19. ;D |
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Post by admin on Jan 8, 2009 20:53:16 GMT -5
Patricia,
Before I go further, it is great to have you on the site. You are thought provoking and passionate. Something tells me that you have an awful lot of Democrats cheering you on right about now.
I am going to take issue with something you wrote.
The new brand of Republicans in Freehold and in the local races have left a lot to be desired. After they put that horrible woman on the ticket recently, I questioned what the party has become. With the most recent two races, seeing so many unqualified and unsuitable candidates being added to the Republican ticket, I have been hesitant in my support. I’ve seen too much negativity coming from the party in recent years and not enough fresh, new ideas that actually make sense.
The horrible woman part is a puzzle to me. I never met Venessa Minetta so I cannot comment on her as a person. . What I do recall is that she campainged against the disbanding of a successful crime prevention team that we needed. That was several years ago. Fast forward to 2008 and Freehold Borough earned the rank of number three in crime within Monmouth County. That is nothing for us to be proud of and in hindsight, it appears Venessa was on to something.
Unsuitable candidates? That is harsh! We should be glad that we had a race! The worst thing that happened is that the Dems stepped it up on their end and did better with issues. We might not have had that without a race. At the meeting even the Dems admitted that they were surprised at the results.
This past year, both sides offered all of our town a lot of issues. That is great and to their credit. We should respect and honor all who step up and serve or try to serve. It is not easy to jump in the fire like that. It takes a thick skin, which so many do not have, and a lot of time and energy.
That point about too much negativity from the GOP is much more a bogus Dem claim than anything else. The GOP did run on issues. The Dems always try to paint them as downers. That is a false claim. People who have concerns or other ideas are healthy and normal. That is all the GOP offered. In the end they lost, and all have to make peace with that, move on and work together.
anyway, Pat, it is good to have you.
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Post by patriciamoore47 on Jan 9, 2009 13:41:45 GMT -5
Well thank you Brian, for your cordial and thought-provoking post. Some others on here could certainly learn from your balanced and unbiased presentation of the facts. I welcome you to debate what I have said; it is a healthy sign of maturity. Aside from mainly teaching English for close to 20 years, I also teach a public debating skills course. I can spot a well-rounded debater from miles away.
While Ms. Minenna may have campaigned against that disbanding, I do not believe that makes her a viable and qualified candidate. I would assume many would agree with her view, albeit a bit simplistic in nature and light in research. I am sure other factors were at play, such as budgetary concerns possibly. The downfall of Ms. Minenna was in her lack of details, her lack of presence (she hardly went door-to-door; I didn't see her once at my doorstep); and her unpolished speech. She also was the start of the divisive politics that have become a cornerstone in the new brand of our Monmouth County Republican party. Her affiliation with P.E.O.P.L.E. in the end turned me off from ever considering her a true representation of our town. She should have never run, and because she did, I feel she has started a new trend of aggressive and polarizing Republican politics; very disappointing to me.
I do not believe the Democrats in our town were surprised at the results. After all, in all recent races, the Republican numbers were disappointingly low. However, if you look at Lichardi, whom I personally did vote for because he is closer to the "old blood" of our party, he had a narrower margin. Unfortunately, he was still not qualified enough to pull through. If you take a look at the rest of our party's candidates, you certainly have to ask yourself what that was all about. Was it simply a case of desperation to put such people on the ticket when there are so many other suitable local Republicans out there? I certainly do not believe some of the other candidates were a true representation of our party's ideals.
What do you think, Brian?
Patricia
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Post by admin on Jan 9, 2009 20:03:05 GMT -5
Patricia, Very interesting post. I will get back to you on this. I just got home from work and my brain is frozen from being outside all day.  Not a good time to think. I am in that frame of mind where I would likely get myself in trouble. ;D Have a good weekend. |
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Post by admin on Jan 14, 2009 5:52:49 GMT -5
Great recap of the meeting... newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2009/0114/front_page/015.htmlMayor sees promise & challenges ahead BY CLARE MARIE CELANO Staff Writer FREEHOLD — The new year saw Freehold Borough Mayor Michael Wilson tell those who attended the borough's reorganization meeting on Jan. 4 that it is his "wish and prayer that the inspiration of this time of year can one day soon lead to peace and tranquility among our neighbors, our country and even our adversaries." Wilson's annual message also focused on change in the United States and touched on the upcoming inauguration of Presidentelect Barack Obama. "We stand on the verge of the promise of change throughout our great land," the mayor said. "New leadership in Washington will bring with it a renewed sense of purpose to all of us who have undertaken the noble cause to serve, whether it is on the federal, state, or local level." The mayor added that this "new year of promise" is also marked with the administering of the oaths of office to Councilman Michael DiBenedetto and Councilman George Schnurr. The mayor said both men have a clear vision of the borough's future. He said DiBenedetto and Schnurr, along with the other members of the Borough Council, share his passion and love for the town. The mayor reviewed the events and improvements that have taken place in the past year, beginning with the resurfacing of Center Street. "On the heels of this major improvement, the newly created Neighborhood Pride Committee has embarked on a program to help make minor repairs to some of the homes along the street," Wilson said. "The proudest achievement of this endeavor is that it is all being done with many volunteers whose simple passion is to make our town shine." This year has every opportunity to be just as busy, according to the mayor. Wilson said the town will resurface Sheriff Street, Conover Street and Ward Avenue this summer. He said officials will be making application for grant funds from the state Department of Transportation Trust Fund for the improvements to Sheriff Street. Wilson said that as is customary with all road projects in Freehold Borough, he has instructed the town's professionals to meet with residents at the appropriate time so that the residents have a chance to provide input in the design stages of the project. "This input is most valuable," Wilson said. The mayor also referred to the fact that the town has been notified that it has been awarded a Community Development Block Grant. "With these funds, the borough will continue the revitalization of its downtown by installing brick sidewalks on Court Street. This project will also include tree planting and safer crossings at intersections," Wilson said. "These improvements are the logical next step in our downtown resurgence." The mayor also referred to the reconstruction of the American Hotel on East Main Street. He said there will be "no more of a profound punctuation mark on our downtown than the reopening of the hotel." The new American Hotel is expected to house a catering facility, a restaurant and 22 hotel rooms, according to Wilson. He said the building will be "the social hub for western Monmouth County." The mayor also addressed the economic difficulties facing the nation. Wilson said the "deplorable economic conditions" have affected all regions of the country. "Most of what we see has happened on Wall Street. However, we don't have to go too far to see that Main Street is affected as well," he said. "As we begin our preparations for our annual budget, we have a daunting task to balance declining revenues from all sources and expenditures for the services that are demanded from our citizenry. In the end, I am sure that we will strike a financial plan that will achieve this balance." Wilson said is hopeful that New Jersey's leaders will seek input from local officials before making any decisions concerning financial aid. State officials in Trenton last week indicated that as they seek to deal with budget issues on the state level, municipal aid and school aid to Garden State communities and school districts could be reduced. "Nothing can be done well unless we work together as a team. We owe this to you. Fractious governing often leads to inefficient government," Wilson said. The mayor ended his annual speech with a quote from Benjamin Franklin: "We must indeed all hang together, or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately." |
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Not a good time to think. I am in that frame of mind where I would likely get myself in trouble. ;D