News Archive

Ocean County News Archive

Debt Showdown: What It Means For New Jersey

Police, Occupy Protesters Clash In Oakland (VIDEO)

Police and protesters supporting the
Occupy Wall Street movement have clashed downtown following a day
of peaceful protests throughout Oakland.

Christie: NJ DOT To Help Towns Clear Blocked Roads

Berkley Eagles Make It To Playoffs

For the first time in eight years the Berkley Eagles Junior Midgets Football Team is in the playoff race, looking for a chance to be crowned the champs. Going from a losing record last year to a winning 7-2 record this year, the team is ranked ninth in the country (the first time the program has received a national ranking).

Coach Joe Miserendino attributes the success to the hard

First Navy Airship Debuts at Joint Base Lakehurst

After two years of flying missions throughout the country, the Navy's first airship in fifty years get's it's officials decals and insignia in a ceremony at the Joint Base Lakehurst. The dirigible measure in at 180 feet long, can cruise up to 10,000 feet in the air, and gets to a top speed of 45 knots. Not exactly the speed demon of some of it's other flying cohorts in the Navy's air arsenal, the

Lacey Schools Name New Superintendent

The Lacey Township Board Of Education names the new schools superintendent.

Jean Michele Cousteau Visits Monmouth U

Jean Michele Cousteau, son of Legendary Aquatic Explorer Jacque Cousteau, delivers a message of hope and conservation at Monmouth Universes 7th Annual Future of the Ocean Symposium.

Speaking at a packed house at Wilson Hall on Friday morning, Cousteau gave a warning to the audience filled with marine biology students, activists, and fans. He spoke of the impact humans have on the planets

Ocean Count Undersheriff Rupert Dies

Ocean County Undersheriff Wayne Rupert has died.

2 Dead In Manchester Crash

A multi-car crash on Route 70 leaves 2 dead and others injured.

Toms River Mayoral Debate (VIDEO)

On Wednesday 10/19/11, incumbent Toms River Mayor Tom Kelaher (R) took on Democratic challenger Paul Brush and Independent candidate Donald Flett. Watch it in full below.

Voter Interest Sagging For Nov Elections

With elections only a scant three weeks away on November 8th, experts are predicting a very lackluster turnout. Historically, elections where there are no gubernatorial or presidential candidates see a smaller response from the public.

What makes the 2011 election noteworthy for voter however is that all of the states 120 legislative seats will be up for vote. Though that has important

Libyan Fighters Capture Gadhafi Hometown (INTERACTIVE)

Ocean County Freeholder Meeting Addresses Homelessness

Homeless advocates in Ocean County are bringing light to an issue getting worse as the economy continues to falter.
Larry Meegan of the Jackson Kiwanis held the floor at Wednesday's Ocean County Freeholder meeting, presenting the plight many of the homeless face in a county as affluent as Ocean.
Experts, advocates, clergy, and residents spoke to dais, asking them to take some kind of action to

Waretown Mayor Fights Against Consolidation Talk

An organization encouraging small towns to consolidate their government is drawing a rebuttal from the mayor of Waretown.

Courage to Connect NJ is an organization that visits small towns and provides them with information about the benefits of merging with other municipalities. According to Gina Genovese, founder of Courage to Connect, they only go where they are invited and they don’t

Lowe's Suddenly Closes Old Bridge Location

Lowe's Home Improvement is announcing the closure of twenty under performing stores throughout the country, including New Jersey.

The Old Bridge Township location in Middlesex County was one of the first to feel the cut, closing it's doors for good on Sunday. By the time Monday rolled around the Lowe's logo on the store was taken down, the building was empty, and customers were greeted by a

Monday Headlines From WOBM News (VIDEO)

Speed Limit is Lowered On A Portion of Route 530 in Manchester

Zipping along a two-mile stretch of County Route 530 at around 35 to 45 miles per hour is typically not a problem. However, a road-widening and drainage project has forced officials to temporarily lower the speed limit to 25 mph.

Fallen Stafford Firefighter To Be Honored At National Memorial Service (VIDEO)

A Stafford Township Fireman, who died in the line of duty in 2010, is one of two from New Jersey being honored during the 30th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Emmitsburg Maryland this Sunday.

Future For The Electric Car?

In anticipation of auto manufacturers releasing more electric cars, New Jersey is one of the states receiving part of a Federal Grant aimed at increasing the network of electric charging stations.

While electric cars are being billed as the future of how we travel, they still do not hold a large market share of the automotive world. Sal Risalvato, executive director of the New Jersey

Gaming Expo Focuses On Renovating Old Casinos

At the Global Gaming Expo being held this week in Las Vegas, Nevada, casino experts expressed concern that we are heading into a double-dip recession that could leave many gaming halls searching for news ways to get customers to spend money.

Utility Company Employee Or Con-Man In A Hardhat?

In the wake of a robbery in Toms River where two men posed at utility workers, the importance of making sure you know the safety precautions to know before letting a stranger with a hardhat into your home.
First and foremost if any person claiming to be from a utility company comes to your home, you should check their identification, uniform, and vehicle. Identification cards, as well as most

Reactions From the Shooting in Upper Freehold

Student in Plumstead and New Egypt return to classes after being in a lockdown Wednesday. School officials put the entire Plumstead District, as well as New Egypt Middle School and Christian Academy, in lockdown Wednesday as a precautionary measure after an early morning shooting occurred in Upper Freehold Township.
State Police are saying that only a piece of furniture is a casualty in the

Union Officer Charged With Bribery

NEWARK - The business agent for an Englishtown union local faces federal charges of taking bribes from two contractors. Paul Lomauro, 42, of Monroe appeared in a Newark courtroom Wendesday,

Upper Freehold Shooting Suspect In Custody

Precautionary lockdowns in New Egypt schools run their course as the suspect in an early-morning shooting incident in neighboring Upper Freehold is collared. New Jersey State Police say two men are in custody after an argument between them in an apartment near Armietown-Hornerstown Road. It ended with one of them shooting a piece of furniture. Police recovered several weapons. The lockdown

What To Do About Fall Colds

It's not quite flu season but call the beginning of autumn the "sniffle season". It seems everyone around you this time of year has a sore throat, cough, or runny nose, so how do you prevent yourself from falling victim to the Fall Cold?

Autographs On SUV Signal Support For Autism Research

Toms River) - Handwriting scrawled all over an SUV in the township? Is it a new vandalism wave? Far from it - in fact, it's a sign of community solidarity in support of research into autism.

Tuesday Headlines From WOBM News

Web Tool Helps You Find A Medicare or Medicaid Program

Anyone looking for information relating to medicare or medicaid health or drug plans can now look up and compare options instantly...all from the comfort of their own computer. In preperation for the upcoming Medicare and Medicaid open enrollment, The Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services is launching it's online Plan Finder tool.
Try Out The Plan Finder:

By entering your

Veterans Hospital Task Force Will Have It's Meeting In Berkley Township

The first meeting of the newly created New Jersey Veterans' Hospital Task Force will take place in Ocean County on Thursday October 6th, at Berkley Town Hall at 10 am.

The Task Force is sponsored by the 9th District Delegation with studying, evaluating, and making recommendations related to the possible construction of a veterans health facility in southern New Jersey. The crux of the problem

Life Term For Toms River Man Who Fatally Shot Girlfriend

An Ocean County man who fatally shot his girlfriend and tried to make it look like a suicide has
been sentenced to life in prison.

Christie Offers Incentives For NJ Towns To Merge

Gov. Chris Christie wants to give New
Jersey towns more incentive to consider mergers.

Monmouth Latino Festival Entertainment Lineup Set

FREEHOLD - The music and spectacle surrounding Saturday's seventh annual Latino Festival of Monmouth County promises to reflect the full depth of a culture wth deep and widespread roots and branches.

The festival takes place in downtown Freehold, and also features a weekend-long film festival at the Center Playhouse, featuring movies from Mexico, Peru, Bolivia and Cuba.

Monmouth Latino Festival Entertainment Lineup Set

Event Teaches Children About Homelessness Firsthand

It’s hard to understand the challenges someone faces until you walk in their shoes, and a program in Monmouth County hopes to teach kids about homelessness by actually giving them a taste of the life.

For the second year now Family Promise of Monmouth County is Holding their annual “Cardboard Box City”. The event has kids of all ages sleep outside in decorated cardboard

Grant Hires 78 Cops State Wide

A new grant from the Department of Justice will allow many New Jersey towns and cities to hire more police officers.

The Community Oriented Policing Services-or COPS- grant, is hoping to be able to give some relief to communities that have suffered cutbacks and layoffs to their police departments in the past several years. The grant will provide roughly twenty million dollars to twelve

The Answer Is Still No (VIDEO)

Why Would Christie Want To Run?

There is speculation on whether Chris Christie will make the jump the Presidential Race, but is this something that makes sense for the governor to do?

If he actually gets elected, Christi would be inheriting a troubled economy, a political divide a mile long in Congress, and three wars. It’s not an ideal situation for any politician, especially one who takes a huge gamble running

October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Margie McDonald with the Wilentz Breast Center at Monmouth Medical Center says starting at age 40 women should get regular mammograms and women under the age of 40 should do regular self exams and everyone should make healthy lifestyle changes.

Remains Found In Cement-Filled Drum; Toms River Hubby Charged

A Toms River man has been charged with killing his wife after police discovered her remains in a 55-gallon cement-filled drum in the apartment building where they once lived.

Officials: Rescued Tortoises Improving At Popcorn Park Zoo

Jackson Woman In Custody Battle In Tunisia

Ocean County residents are once again at the center of an international custody scandal, this time in the small North African Country of Tunisia.
Suzzane Feimster lives in Jackson Township, and is a teacher at Asbury Park Middle School. Her former husband Walid Bensaye is Tunisian and still holds dual citizenship. The couple remained friendly even post divorce, so when Bensaye wanted to take

Atlantic Cities Safety Future

While law enforcement searches for those involved in the carjacking and shooting of Sunil Rattu and Radha Ghetia, what is the future of safety for Atlantic Cities touted “Tourism District”.
District Commander of the Tourism District Thomas Gilbert wants to use crime fighting technology to try and predict possible crime patterns in the area “kind of like a weather forecast.

Reactions To The Jersey Shore's Payday From NJ Taxpayers

They're tan, they're loud, and they're getting four hundred and twenty thousand thanks to New Jersey Tax Payers. MTVs mega hit reality show was approved by the state's Economic Development Authority on Wednesday as part of a now defunct program which gave tax credits to film makers in the Garden State.
The money will go towards the production costs of the show's debut season in 2009, and already

Fort Monmouth's Closure Bad For Small Biz

With the closure of Fort Monmouth as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) in 2005, one of those hit the hardest by the decision is the local small businesses who thrive around the base.

The pizzerias, deli's, and Laundromats all served the over five thousand people directly employed by Fort Monmouth (and over four thousand additional people indirectly employed by the base). With

Why Do We Engage In Risky Behavior?

With Labor Day just behind us Summer is just beginning to wind down but it seems that towns are facing a problem left over from the summer months: reckless swimmers.
Most towns contract for life guarding ends once Labor Day comes around so afterwards their beach front becomes “Swim at Your Own Risk.” This becomes especially dangerous when compounded with the fact that the early

Helmet Laws Unenforced By Parents

A lot of attention Is being given towards head injuries from contact sports like hockey and football, there could be something more innocuous causing harm to your child.

A new study from the group Safe Kids USA funds that not only 64 percent of parents endure their child wears a helmet a least sometimes. Those numbers are even down ten points from four years ago. Furthermore the survey finds

A New Generation Remembers 9/11 In New Brunswick

Ten years since the September 11th tragedy occurred, a new generation prepares to carry memories forward. At the memorial service held in the New Brunswick High School auditorium on Sunday, a large majority of those in attendance not only don't have recollection of the events from a decade ago, but many were simply not even born in 2001.

In the seats and on stage, members of local boy scout

Obama's Goal: Getting Jobs, Putting GOP On Spot (INTERACTVE)

Latin Coalition Sues Freehold

The Latino Coalition is suing Freehold Borough over their refusal to release a report analyzing police policy and procedure. They claim that by not releasing the report in question---which was paid for with public funds—Freehold is violating New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act (OPRA).

The Borough however says the report is excluded from OPRA because it contains information about

Barnegat Celebrates Its History With Pirates Day This Weekend

by Rosetta Key

Not many people would want to be associated with sea-faring criminals known as Pirates but Barnegat Township not only exposes its connection but celebrates its dubious founding with a special annual Pirates' Day this Saturday September 10th.

Organizer Jerry Thompson says Pirates' Day recognizes that Barnegat is the home of the "Patriot Pirates" who raided British

Don't Neglect Black Mold In Your Insurance Claim

Between the flooding, the power outages, and the wind damage, Hurricane Irene delivered a slew of troubles onto homeowners in the Garden State. Those troubles can seem especially overwhelming when filing insurance claims. With so many things that need your agent’s attention, one that is often overlooked in the presence of Black Mold.
Anyone who lives in a frequently flooded area knows

Jackson Township Measures Meaning of 9/11 in Multi-Cultural, Multi-Generational

The tragedy of a decade ago caused Americans to re-evaluate their politics, religion, defense, security and communication. Orchestrators of Sunday's 9/11 observance in Jackson say it spans generations, faiths and social strata.

Dinner Dialogues Mend Fraying Family Ties In Ocean, Monmouth

I-Pods, i-Pads, texting, laptops...What is the technological revolution doing to family communication? Left unchecked, say experts in the Saint Barnabas Institute for Prevention, it can erode the concept to a point of dysfunction, and destroy families in the process. Their answer, for the past 20 years, has been the Strengthening Families program.

Shore Vacationers, Boardwalk Businesses Hope for Big Labor Day Weekend

Several straight damp weekends and a hurricane haven't lessened the enthusiasm on the shore for a Labor Day weekend that's fun for vacationers, and profitable for merchants.

Repairs to 19 Bridges Completed, Western Ocean County Roads Reopening

The last six of the 19 Ocean County-managed bridges and culverts that sustained heavy flood damage after last week's storm are scheduled to reopen Friday, say county officials.

Ocean County Offers Shredding Services For Residents

Ocean County will be offering a Residential Document Shredding program throughout the towns starting September 22nd. Each of the ten sessions will run from 9 am to 1 pm and is completely free for residents with no need to register.

Jackson Recovers After Being Hammered By Irene

Hurricane Irene’s damage to Jackson Township made it one of the worst hit municipality in Ocean County. With over twenty bridges closed right after the storm, now the town hopes to dry off and begin recovering.
While Hurricane Irene’s wrath was pretty hard on Jackson, Mayor Mike Reina says that it’s the prospect of any future rain that worries him more. “The

Jon Runyan Discusses Post Irene Cleanup On Ask The Congressman

Third Distict Congressman Jon Runyan stopped by the studios of WOBM for his montly "Ask the Congressman" segement. The Congressman is in the midst of helping with the his districts recovery from Hurricane Irene, and spoke about how proud he was of the evacuation efforts of residents. With the road ahead focused on cleanup and recovery, Runyan laid out his plans for getting Ocean

Free Water and Ice Avalable to JCP&L Customers Without Power

New Jersey Jersey Central Power and Light customers who are still without power from Hurricane Irene could be eligible to recieve free water and ice at a number of locations while restoration continues.

According to a press releasse from the company: "Customers should go to the courtesy desk at individual stores and report that they are a JCP&L customer out of

Fifty United Water Toms River Customers Under Boil Advisory

United Water Toms River is issuing a water bouil notice for fifty of it's customers while repair is being done to a 16-inch water main by Intermediate North School.

The Boil Water Advisory is for the following customers:
Hillgrass Court
Wavecrest Court
150 Intermediate West Way
36 Bey Lea Road
40 Bea Lea Road
Bea Lea Commons/medical offices
Intermediate North School
Goddard

Freeholder Director Invites Residents To Ocean County

Summer is not over yet, and Ocean County is hoping their cleaning efforts will be ready in time for Labor Day weekend.

After a string of rainy weekends in August scared visitors from the shore, Ocean County Freeholder director Joe Vicari isn't letting Sunday's tropical storm get in the way of attractive people for the summers last major holiday.

"What we want to do right now is

Irene Puts Thousands In The Dark

Wide spread power outages are reported in Ocean and Monmouth counties with JCP+L reporting 113,000 customers out.

Ocean County Gives Hurricane Preparedness Meeting

Ocean County Officials are urging everyone that most importantly during Hurricane Irene they remain calm and follow instructions.

At a Hurricane preparedness meeting held at Robert J Miller Airpark, officials from all branch's of the County government, human services, and emergency services spoke to the possible severity of the upcoming storm and the importance of making sure everyone

Supermarkets In A Frenzy In Preperation For Irene

With only a few days until Hurricane Irene is expected to make landfall in Sunday, supermarkets are bustling with people stocking up on supplies in case the storm has them homebound.

Governor Christie is already recommending those who live by the shore volunteer to evacuate ahead of time and is warning people to be prepared. At a busy Foodtown in Ocean County people are buying their

What To Do If Irene Forces An Evacuation

With Irene expected to have some kind of appearance in New Jersey this weekend, it's important to know what to do if rain and wind force you to evacuate your home or seek shelter elsewhere.

County Offices of Emergency Management are set up throughout the state in order to assist and inform residents about any questions they may have regarding the need for safe shelter or evacuation.

Ed

Do Hurricane's Come To New Jersey?

As Hurricane Irene prepares to make her way up the east coast, should New Jerseyans worry about hurricanes hitting their coast?

While it seems that the threat of a hurricane is in the news every year come fall, in actuality a "hurricane" is rather rare. By the time most Hurricane's make it up the east coast from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean region, they end up losing steam and

Tremors From Earthquake in Virginia Felt in Ocean County

Tremors are were felt in the area from a 5.9 earthquake that originated in virginia. maps show the epicenter of the quake was between richmond and charlottesville. tremors have been reported as far north as New York.

See the location of the Quake : http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Maps/10/280_40.php

UPDATE! Tuesday Headlines From WOBM News

Dealing With Grief After The Death Of Four Students

After the tragic death of four teenagers from Mainland Regional High School, the neighboring towns of Linwood, Northville, and Somers Point all now face the arduous task of dealing with the grief.

As soon as the death of the four football players became known throughout the tight knight towns, Linwood superintendent Dr. Thomas Baruffi knew that it was going to be important to provide

Car Parts Thieves Sought by Toms River Police

TOMS RIVER - The theft of catalytic converters from a pair of parked cars on Sunday in the township spurs a police investigation.

Berkeley Introduces Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map Amendment Along Route 9

Work continues behind the scenes to make the Route 9 corridor in Berkeley Township the destination people want to visit, live and shop. Township officials are now focused on getting its local zoning ordinances and zoning map in line with that vision.

Firefighter Raise Awareness By Paddling Up Coast

If you see a pair of Aussies paddling down the shore, don't be surprised. It's the wor

k of two men Shane Austin and Ben Chalmers from Sydney Australia, who are raising awareness for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

The pair started out in Maryland at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial and are making their way to New York City for the start of the World Police and Firefighter

NRC Releases Short Term Japan Study

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission recently released the results from it's near-term Japan Task Force. The goal of the study was to see what could be learned from the disaster at the Fukushima Diachi plant immediately after the tsunami.

After a 90 day analysis, the Japan Task Force's report introduced a dozen recommendations which they hope will lead to increased safety at plants nationwide.

Lightning Triggers Manchester House Fire

MANCHESTER - Lightning is blamed for an overnight fire that sent residents in four adjoining dwellings scurrying for safety.

Manchester Man Faces Charges After Late Night Chase

MANCHESTER - A township 21-year-old faces 14 separate charges after police say he led them on a car and foot chase just after midnight today.

Wake is Held For Manchester Marine

American Flags as well as a slew of paper signs reading "We Miss You" and "You're Our Hero" line the roadway en route to St. John's Catholic Church in Lakehurst for the viewing services of Marine Corporal Nicholas Ott.

The veiwing started at three in the afternoon with a line stretching all of the way down the street of people who want to say their goodbyes to the 23

Shore Ferries Get $3M in Federal Grants

MIDDLETOWN - Enhancements for the Bayshore Ferry Terminal here and construction of the nearby Long Branch Ferry Terminal project move closer to start dates with nearly $3,000,000 in Federal Highway Administration grants announced today by shore-based Congressman Frank Pallone (D-6)

Ocean County Mourns A Fallen Marine

American Flags still line the entrance of the funeral home in Manchester Township in honor of Marine Corporal Nicholas Ott.

A precession of military and police transported the 23 year old's body from the Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to his Manchester in Ocean County. When the casket arrived it was greeted by a slew of people waving American flags and awaiting to pay their respects.

Is the Homeless Solution For Ocean County In Middlesex?

Amidst the debate between Ocean County and the Lakewood Tent City, Middlesex County's "Ten Year Plan To End Homelessness" hopes to be an example of how the problem can be resolved in the best possible manner.

The long term plan looks at the causes of homelessness and tries to address them beforehand. With a heavy focus being placed on preventing a situation where a person has to

Rainy Weekend Drying Up Profits For Shore Businesses

After a weekend of torrential downpour (and more rain on the way) owners along the Jersey Shore are singing "Rain Rain Go Away".

The most recent bout of rains dumped as much as ten inches in parts of the Garden State, causing roads to flood but more importantly people to stay home. Domenic Maruca, owner of Seaside Heights stalwart Maruca's Pizza knows a thing or two about finer

Investigators Are Making Sure Boardwalk Games are Fair

Investigators from the Division of Consumer Affairs are back on the boardwalk with their scales, levels, and measures, making sure Seaside's Boardwalk is up to snuff. As the third part of the DCA's "Safe Summer 2011" initiative, investigators were on the boardwalk Friday checking the games to make sure they are fair to the player.

The "Safe Summer" team was already in

Dozens Displaced, 2 Hurt In Massive Newark Fire

Newark fire officials say two people were
hurt and dozens displaced by a massive blaze that damaged several
homes and buildings early Saturday.

Manchester Crash Leaves Three Hurt

MANCHESTER - Police here are probing a morning rush car crash that left three people hospitalized and blocked traffic for two hours today.

Authorities say 53-year-old NIcholas Mazza of Toms River and his seven-year-old daughther were in their SUV on Route 37 at Commonwealth Boulevard just before 8 AM, when they collided with a car driven by 27-year-old Tonya Henneman of Bayville.

Friday Headlines From WOBM News

Governor Christie Visits The Shore Again

Governor Chris Christie is donning the sunscreen once again for his tour of the Jersey Shore. The Governor visited the beach at Manasquan and spoke about the shore's importance as well as his commitment to "make the hard decisions."
He spoke about the importance of balancing economic and environmental policies, and knowing when something is not right for New Jersey. Specifically off

Liquor Importer Pleads Guilty to Smuggling, Tax Evasion, Money Laundering

A 42-year-old liquor importer who once called Medford home awaits sentencing for smuggling spirits into the US, avoiding import taxes, and using his business to launder the profits. More at wobm.com.

Toms River Crash Leaves Driver Seriously Injured

TOMS RIVER - A morning rush car-and-truck crash in Toms River leaves a driver hospitalized. Police say the unidentified driver needed extrication by firefighters from two nearby companies after the collision with a truck headed eastbound on Route 571 near Old Freehold Road around 8 AM.

Missing Sandbars A Danger for the Shore?

A longtime Lifeguard Captain in Seaside Park, Joe Gomulka is a little puzzled over something he sees..or doesn't see in the water this year.

"Mostly every single summer you have sandbars that are in the ocean and for some reason this particular summer, and it's probably over a month and a half that we have had no sandbars at all."

It's a disconcerting thought for Gomulka, who has

Sierra Club Warns Of Ã¢ÂÂGiant Fish BlendersÃ¢ÂÂ In Power Plants

Ominously releasing a study titled "Giant Fish Blender", the Sierra Club is predicting dire consequences for waterways located near power plants without self-contained cooling systems.

The groups study backs research conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency which claims that self contained cooling systems, namely cooling towers, are the best technology

Farmer's Market Week Kicks Off In Ocean County

New Jersey's moniker as the "Garden State" is not one that is given arbitrarily, and that's never clearer than stepping into a farmers market. New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas Fisher was at the Seaside Park Farmer's Market in Ocean County to kick off this years Farmer's Market Week.

One hundred and forty seven community markets operate throughout the state, twelve of

Asbury Park Adding An Additional Shared Service

Asbury Park is hoping that by having Monmouth County do all of the maintenance and repair to the their emergency vehicles, they will save taxpayers some money without losing services. On Friday, Monmouth Freeholders and city officials announced the addition to the shared services program that has already seen some success by having the county take on duties for emergency dispatch services.

Governor Christie Makes Millions Available For Water Infrastructure

Governor Chris Christie is putting even more weight behind his Ten Point Plan to Restore the Barnegat Bay. Today in Barnegat Township he signed three bills, which give towns access to 650 million dollars in "no cost" or "low cost" loans meant to tackle water quality projects.

The money will be financed by the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Financing Program and

Multi-State Drug, Weapons Ring Cracked in Monmouth County

A multi-state heroin and weapons network is broken open in Monmouth County. More than 30 suspects were rounded up between July 1 and August 3 in a probe that began in the fall of 2010.

Anthony Stevenson, 43, of Long Branch, was identified as the leader early in the investigation that was spurred by information reaching the office of Monmouth County Prosecutor Pete Warshaw. More at wobm.com.

Foreign Insect Threaten NJ Trees

Call it an invasion of the creepy crawly kind. Insects from overseas are finding their way into New Jersey and destroying trees by the tens of thousands. The Department of Environmental Protection teamed with the Department of Agriculture Wednesday to unveil a new interactive exhibit profiling five of these pests.

Located in the State's Forest Resource Education Center in Jackson Township,

Watchgroups Should Exercise Caution

For towns that are having their police forces cut as a way of saving money, neighborhood citizen's watch is more valuable tool than ever. However with things like drugs, gangs, and violence all being established problems in suburban areas, it's important that those looking to help don't bite off more than they can chew.
While it's only natural to want to interfere in a crime you see it happening

Beachwood Councilman Refute's Former Mayor's Claim

Even though Beachwood Councilman Gerry Lacrosse won the defamation suit lodged against former Mayor Ron Jones, it doesn't mean the conflict is anywhere close to dying down.

Lacrosse says Jones' claims of misconduct against him and Judge Craig Wellerson hold no water. The former Beachwood Mayor alleges that Wellerson had a past business relationship

Saturday Headlines From WOBM News

Bush To Be In NYC To Mark 10th Anniversary Of 9/11

The ceremony at the World Trade Center site
marking the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks will be a
solemn but stately event that will include former President George
W. Bush and a chance for victims' families to view the names of
loved ones etched into the memorial, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said.

Electrical Failure Triggers Fish Kill at Oyster Creek

New Jersey environmental regulators are assessing damage to marine life in the discharge canal at the Oyster Creek Nuclear Power Plant in Lacey Township, where a Thursday night loss of power to a dilution pump resulted in the death of at least 300 fish.

Exelon spokesperson Suzanne D'Ambrosio says that an offsite breaker belonging to Jersey Central Power and LIght failed around 8 PM Thursday,

Summer Still Prime Season For Asthma

Now that Governor Christie is pronounced healthy, he is learning the hard way to not take the summer heat lightly as an asthmatic.
Even though spring is often considered the worst time of year for asthma, summer is not something that should be taken lightly. Breathing not only becomes more difficult due to the high heat and humidity, but also because of something called "temperature

Some Residents Aren't Ready To See The Post Office Go

The United States Postal Service is looking to trim the fat by cutting 3,600 retail branch locations nationwide, including fifty possible in the Garden State.
The USPS made the announcement Tuesday after reporting a loss of eight billion dollars last year, which they attribute to an increase use of internet and email, as well as a slow economy which led to a decline in advertising mail.

Admitted Fast-Food Holdup Artist Awaits Sentencing

TRENTON - A North Carolina man admits pulling off a string of fast-food, convenience store and bank holdups that terrorized the shore at the beginning of 2011.

Will Cheaper Prescriptions Mean Even Less Healthy Living?

It seems everyone has a prescription for something these days and the amount of people popping a pill to feel better could only be going up.

Will Cheaper Prescriptions Mean Even Less Healthy Living?

It seems everyone has a prescription for something these days and the amount of people popping a pill to feel better could only be going up. Starting this September and going through the next fourteen months, seven of the of the worlds top twenty best selling drugs will be coming out with generic versions, including the top two : Cholesterol fighter Lipitor and Blood thinner Plavix.
While the

Amendement To Hague Treaty To Bring Back Abducted Kids

An amendment adopted by the House Foreign Affairs Committee is seeking to do even more for children being held in Japan because of abductions by a parent. New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith (District 4) is the architect behind the amendment which is looking to return the approximately 157 minors who are being held in Japan by Japanese parent against the wishes of an American Parent and often in

Time Is of The Essence When It Comes To Spending Aid Money

Of the five hundred and eighty school districts that receiving their share of the 600 million in school aid, only 20 are opting to use that money for taxpayer relief this year. While many school districts are choosing to hold onto that money as a safeguard in case state funding is scarce next year, for some schools timing played a bigger factor in their decision of what to do.

Patricia

ADAOCAN Celebrates 21 years of American's with Disabilities Act

To celebrate the twenty-first birthday of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADAOCAN (Americans with Disabilities Act Ocean County Action Network) is throwing a celebration and inviting some very brave residents.

The event will be held at the American Legion Post 129 in Toms River located on 2025 Church Road, and in addition to celebrating ADAOCAN and the Americans with

Water Quality Testing For Barnegat Bay

A new water-monitoring group is gathering important data about Barnegat Bay as part of Governor Christie's ten point plan to restore the watershed. Volunteers, appointed members, and elected officials are all joining forces to be part of a water quality monitoring program aimed at finally fully addressing the restoration of Barnegat Bay.

Department of Environmental Protection commissioner

Veterans Are Victims Of Possible Default

The possibility of a national default looms overhead and that is especially scary for the bravest men and women who stand to lose the monetary entitlements and services that they have earned through their service.

Congress announced that if it is not able to come to a resolution for the debt ceiling, over half of outstanding bills owed by the nation would not be able to be paid, That includes

Environmental Regulators Step Up Beetle Battle

Ocean County Seniors Could Lose Check's If Government Defaults

Ocean County has one of the largest populations of senior citizens in the state, and many of those in residence rely on their social security checks as their primary means of income. However, if the Congress cannot come to an agreement regarding the nation's debt ceiling those who come to depend on their checks will find themselves in a particularly difficult situation.

With the

New Flood Maps For Ocean County

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is working on a new set of flood maps for Ocean County. At a public information meeting held Wednesday at the Robert J. Miller airpark, representatives from FEMA explained the details for the plan ahead in releasing the FEMA maps by this time next year.

The maps are the result of sophisticated data collection being applied to figure out exactly

Two Vehicle Crash in Manchester Leaves One Driver Seriously Injured

A motor vehicle collision in the Park Lake section of Manchester this morning leaves one driver with major injuries.

Bears Become A Nuisance In The Garden State

Resident's of Jackson Township were greeted with a surprise visit from a black bear Wednesday afternoon.

While many don't assume the highway packed state to be a haven for bears, in the past thirty years there have been bear sightings in every one of New Jersey's twenty one counties. Even Patrick Carr, biologist for the state's Department of Fishing and Wildlife is amazed by how far

Our Lady OF Gudadalupe Welcomed By American Catholid.

Long Branch's Our Lady of Guadalupe is gaining attention in the area as one of the first churches to break away from the Roman Catholic Church and become a member of the American National Catholic Church.

The members ers of the now defunct John the Baptist Church in Long Branch first encountered problems with the Trenton diocese when an order was brought down to combine John the Baptist

Man Found Guilty Of Pretending To Be A Doctor

An Ocean County man who posed as a physician and treated hundreds of elderly and home-bound patients in the Ocean and Monmouth counties, pleads guilty to fraud and identity theft charges in a Trenton federal courtroom Monday.

State Closes Lakewood Library Summer Program Over Rules

Lakewood township officials are angry over a state decision to shut down a summer program at the local library that provided a free daily lunch and activities to children.

Saturday Headlines From WOBM News

Movers Charged with License Violations, Face Fines

The operator of an Asbury Park moving company is among 25 around the state facing charges of running unlicensed and uninsured businesses. Victor Csik, advertising as "James." was snared in a New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs probe called Operation Mother's Attic.

Menendez Secures Money For Beach Replenishment

Two New Jersey Democrats Senator Bob Menendez and Congressman Frank Pallone started off the Fourth of July weekend by announcing some major news for Jersey Beaches.

Drop-Side Crib Ban not A Big Deal In Ocean County

by Rosetta Key

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) new stringent crib safety standards don't appear to be a big hardship on local Mothers, Hotels, Daycare Centers or even the operators of one of New Jersey's largest second-hand stores.

Mary Reck, The Owner and Director of Red Apple Country Day School of Bayville says they no longer care for infants but they belong to a

Fox News Political Twitter Account Appears Hacked

Fox News' political Twitter account appears to
have been hacked.

Triple Fatal Crash Closes Parkway In Monmouth County

A bad accident on the parkway in Monmouth County this morning has shut traffic down northbound in the vicinity of exit 114.

WOBM's Ocean County Traffic Watch reports traffic being diverted off the roadway at exit 105.

Unconfirmed reports indicate there may have been three fatalities. No word on the vehicles involved.

Consumer Affairs Tests To Keep Boardwalk Safe

The boardwalk at Point Pleasant beach is an iconic piece of the New Jersey Shoreline. Miles of stretched vendors offering delicious fried food, souvenirs galore, and carnival games offering to win fabulous prizes. While all of these things are indicative of a summer spent at the shore, a few unscrupulous vendors selling lead tainted items, unsafe food, or rigged games can become a blemish on

Midday Bank Robbery In Lakewood; Suspect At Large

LAKEWOOD - The second bank robbery in as many days on Ocean County's Route 9 triggers a search by Lakewood Police. Authorities say the suspect who entered the Harmony Bank in the township around noon showed no weapon and took off with cash in a four-door Acura with temporary plates. Witnesses described a black man, 30 to 40 years of age, heavy-set, with facial stubble, a white

Independence Weekend in Ocean County Filled With Fireworks Displays

Nearly a week's worth of fireworks displays bathe the night skies of Ocean County in brilliant reds, whites, blues and every other color in the spectrum during Independence Day 2011 celebrations.

New State Law Mandates Study of Alzheimer's Impact

For the first time, all of New Jersey's resources to help Alzheimer's patients and their families will be scrutinized and organized. A measure shepherded through the legislature by shore legislators aims to assess the impact of the disease on New Jersey patients and caregivers, on public safety, and on quality of life, as well as the resources for treatment and support.
The Alzheimer's Disease

Friday Headlines From WOBM News

Antinuclear Activists Sound Grave Warning for Post-Fukushima Future

In the same week that New Jersey's US Senators call for a review of safety standards applied to America's nuclear power plants by federal regulators, Ocean County antinuclear advocates predict dire global consequences in the aftermath of Japan's battered Fukushima-Daichi reactors.

NJ Senators Think The NRC Isn't Doing It's Job

New Jersey Democratic Senators Bob Menendez and Frank Lautenberg issued a statement saying that they would like to see a the Government Accountability Organization investigate the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
This comes as a reaction to the Senators reading a yearlong investigative piece written by the Associated Press which detailed tritium leaks at 48 of 65 sites across the country.

New Study Shows The Sea Level Is Rising Faster Than We Thought

According to a study just published by scientists from Yale and University of Pennsylvania, sea level has risen faster in the past 130 years than at any time in the past two thousand years, and at even a faster rate in the past decade.

HealthSouth of Toms River Wins Top National Ranking for Fifth Consecutive Year

A Toms River rehabilitation center reaches a rare milestone this week. HealthSouth of Toms River marks its fifth straight year of top 10 percent ranking by the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation. It's a distinction matched by only 12 other centers of its kind nationwide, and no other in New Jersey.

Pride and Humility Define Ocean County's Columbus Day 2011 Grand Marshal

This year's Grand Marshal for the 20th Annual Ocean County Columbus Day Parade in October admits he never expected the honor. But Luigi Marciante Sr. accepts the designation with the pride of a man of means, and the dignity of a man of achievement. And there are equal measures of each in the Jackson resident.

UPDATE! Tuesday Headlines From WOBM News

Obama To Announce Afghan Troop Drawdown Wednesday

President Barack Obama on Wednesday will move
the United States a step closer to ending the war in Afghanistan
when he announces plans to bring thousands of American troops home,
beginning next month.

Phone Workers Protest in Lakewood

Saying they've had it to here with oppressive management tactics and abusive behavior, hundreds of unionized telephone workers take their case to the streets of Lakewood Monday.

Verizon workers affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers punched out at five at their James Street operations center, then walked outside to meet busloads of their brethren for a protest.

AP: US Nuke Regulators Weaken Safety Rules (INTERACTIVE)

An Associated Press investigation finds that regulators have repeatedly weakened rules or not
enforced them to keep the nation's aging nuclear reactors within safety limits.

Teens Beat Brick Bicyclist

Three Brick Township teens face charges of aggravated assault after a bicyclist is found beaten before dawn Thursday.

Fukushima Fallout For America Under Discussion in Toms River

More than three months after the natural disasters that inundated Japan and triggered meltdowns in nuclear reactors, what are the potential problems yet to be faced in America and around the world? Jersey Shore Nuclear Watch says the worst is yet to come in the United States, and the group is bringing issues to light Monday night in Toms River.

Freeholder Candidate Creates Sparks, Draws Fire With Debate Ultimatum

The Democrat seeking an Ocean County Freeholder seat this November creates a mini-storm by issuing a debate challenge to her opponent during the public session of the Board's regularly-scheduled public meeting.

Ciba-Geigy Settlement Doesn't Change Resident Concerns

Christie Says He Doesn't Regret Helicopter Use (VIDEO)

Union Disputes Sweeney's Health Care Numbers

UPDATE! Monday Headlines From WOBM News

Christie To Lawmakers: Show Me What You Got (VIDEO)

Ocean County's Main Power Provider Beefs Up System To Meet Summer Demand

The Barrier Island blackout of 2003 may be eight years in the past, but it's just like yesterday to homeowners and shopkeepers who endured it. It's also still fresh in the minds of executives and staffers at Jersey Central Power and Light, who are in the final phases of a new round of embellishments to prevent a reoccurrence.

1 Dead, 4 Wounded In Shooting At NYC Boardwalk

Authorities say two gunmen opened fire on five
people sitting on a bench on a crowded New York City boardwalk,
killing a teenage girl and wounding four men in a possible
gang-related shooting.

Early School Releases Scheduled Again For Thursday

The scorching heat has forced school districts across the Jersey Shore to again schedule early release on Thursday.

Governor's Energy Strategy Gets Runyan's Endorsement

The long-range energy plan that Governor Chris Christie envisions for New Jersey is taking quite a lacing from environmentalists, but Congressman Jon Runyan (R-3) says that there's a lot to commend in the strategy.

Mayor Ron Jones Calls It Quits Five Months Early

Beachwood Mayor Ron Jones (pictured) sends shockwaves through the small community he's led since 2008 by announcing that Friday will be his last day. He's not going away though.

Ocean County Police, Firefighters, First-Responders Recognized for Uncommon Valo

On June 9th in Toms River, nearly two dozen of Ocean County's finest and bravest receive honors for placing their lives on the line. The 200 Club of Ocean County holds its annual awards ceremony to recognize uniformed officers, firefighters and first-aiders who looked death in the face - and two who lost the stare-down.

Early Dismissals Due To Heat On Wednesday

Parents in several shore area school districts may have to make contingency plans for the kids.

Hot weather will force early dismissals in the Toms River, Lakewood, Howell, Marlboro & Tinton Falls school districts on Wednesday and Thursday.

Check the Ocean County Stormwatch page at wobm.com for more information.

Jackson And All Of New Jersey: Business Friendly (PHOTO)

Beachwood Mayor To Step Down

Beachwood Mayor Ron Jones (pictured) says he'll resign his position Friday and become a lobbyist for Green Technology And Urban Revitalization.

Travolta, Latifah Set For Induction Into NJ Hall

Town Meetings Come To Toms River

Governor Christie visits Toms River this coming Tuesday for his 19th town hall meeting.

The meeting will be held at the Toms River National Guard Armory on Whitesville Road starting at 3 p.m. Admission is free but seating is first come, first serve. Doors open at 2 o'clock.

Saturday Speeches: Talking About Labor

Public's Help Needed To ID Person Connected To Beach Assault (PHOTO)

Ocean County YMCA Drive Aims To Turn Needy Kids Into Tomorrow's Leaders

Health and fitness. Nutrition. Swimming. Citizenship. Summer camps. Just a sampling of the plethora of programs available through the Ocean County YMCA - but for many Ocean County families of limited means, an extravagance that they can't deliver to their children. A drive that starts June 6 serves as the catalyst to open up the Y's programs to the broadest possible number of needy families in

Expo Aims to Give Veterans Clear Access to Services, Programs

There is a multitude of government-funded programs aimed at helping American military veterans maintain their health, find employment, receive pensions and be compensated for service-related disabilities. But many veterans are daunted by the often-labyrinthine process of obtaining them. An expo on June 6 at Ocean County College in Toms River aims to remedy the syndrome.

The Ocean County

Public Help Need To ID Person Connected To Beach Assault (PHOTO)

Ocean County Prosecutor Marlene Lynch Ford is asking for the public’s help to identify an individual in connection with the sexual assault of a female adult on a beach over the Memorial Day weekend.

The attack occurred in the early morning hours of Monday, May 30, 2011.

Anyone who has information and/or can identify this person

Elks Leaders Round Up The Herd, Map Out The Future

Wildwood gets about 13,000 visitors this weekend, all on working vacations. The New Jersey Elks' Association holds its annual convention, with members gauging their progress on dozens of initiatives while recharging in the summer sun at the Jersey Shore. At the same time, they're concerned about the graying of the ranks and the organization's future.

NJ Court: Drunk Driver Can Sue Toms River Bar That Served Him

New Jersey's Supreme Court has ruled a
convicted drunken driver has the right to sue the bar that served
him.

Thursday Headlines From WOBM News

Toms River Township's Historian Among Experts Contributing to Civil War Sesquice

Abraham Lincoln never visited the Jersey Shore. His total number of stops in the Garden State could be counted on two hands. He had a couple of sure-fire Jersey jokes in his repertoire. But his great-great grandmother and his great-grandfather were born in Freehold. And even though he never won the popular vote in New Jersey, he had its support as the still young Union began to fragment.

Toms River Township's Historian Among Experts Contributing to Civil War Sesquice

Car Designers Hear Global Cultures In Auto Horns

Are you a honker, a leaner or a blaster? Auto design engineers say that how we use our autmobile horns - and decisions over which are placed in our cars - are greatly influenced by sociology around the world. And as America's population continues to shift, it may have a bearing on what you're hearing on the roads - especially as summer travel time begins.

UPDATE! Tuesday Headlines From WOBM News

Final Beach Access Hearing Thursday In LBI

New Jerseyans will get their last chance to sound off on the state's hotly contested new beach access rules Thursday night on Long Beach Island.

Officials Expect Strong Summer Tourism Season

New Jersey officials are set to cash in on
what they believe will be a strong summer tourism season, one which
could provide a much-needed economic boost to the financially
struggling state.

Their optimistic outlook is based in part on the assumption that
the troubled state and national economies will continue to slowly
improve, while sky-high gasoline prices continue inch downward --

Rutgers President To Step Down In June

Rutgers President Richard McCormick
says he will step down as head of the state's largest university at
the end of the school year to return to teaching.

Republican Presidential Contest Suddenly Heats Up (INTERACTIVE)

Veterans' Advocate Keeps Memorial Day Spirit Intact

It began as Decoration Day - a solemn national ritual undertaken by widows of soldiers in the War Between The States to decorate their graves each year. Memorial Day, in the years that ensued, have transformed for many of us into an extended weekend of barbecues, pool parties, beachgoing, and relaxation. But the Ocean County Freeholder who serves veterans urges you to remember the sacrifices

Authority Ends E-ZPass Break For Non-NJ Customers

Drivers who have E-ZPass accounts in other states soon won't get off-peak discounts when they pass
through New Jersey.

Monmouth Universty Poll Shows Majority In Favor Of Off Shore Drilling

Off shore oil drilling has long been one of the most contentious issues, with nearly the entire New Jersey congressional delegation comin out against any proposed idea to drill near the waters of the Jersey Shore. Yet in a new survey on gas prices released by Monmouth University, 52 percent of New Jersey residents polled were in favor of drilling.