Trenton -  New Jersey's municipalities will receive $13.1 million in state grants to help implement and enhance local recycling efforts, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.

The funds are being awarded through the Recycling Enhancement Act (REA), a law that has significantly increased recycling tonnage grants the DEP is able to distribute to almost all of the state's cities and towns.

Middletown Township, which transitioned to single stream recycling collection earlier this year, has received $114,465.91 under the program

"Recycling is a high priority of the Christie Administration because it improves our environment while also creating tangible economic benefits for municipalities,'' said Commissioner Martin. "As we observe the 25th anniversary of the state's Mandatory Recycling Act this year, a landmark law that made New Jersey the first state to require recycling, we are making a call to  action across the state for everyone to renew their commitment to recycle.''

The recycling grant program is funded by a $3 per ton surcharge on trash disposed at solid waste facilities. Distribution of grant funds this year is based on the recycling successes local governments demonstrated in 2010. In 2010, New Jersey reached a 40-percent municipal solid waste or MSW recycling rate for the first time since 1998.

Municipal governments, vital to the overall success of recycling, receive 60 percent of the money the fund generates to help them enhance recycling outreach and compliance efforts. The balance is awarded to county solid waste management and household hazardous waste collection programs, county and state promotional efforts, and recycling research.

For a list of 2010 grant payouts for municipalities statewide, visit: http://www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/stat_links/2010%20payout.pdf

New Jersey became the first state to require statewide recycling in 1987 with passage of the Statewide Mandatory Source Separation and Recycling Act. Municipal solid waste, collected from households and small commercial establishments, includes paper, corrugated paper, glass, metal containers and plastics.

"We are striving to achieve 50 percent recycling of municipal solid waste for environmental and economic reasons,'' said DEP Assistant Commissioner for Environmental Management Jane Kozinski. "Many municipalities are leaving money on the table by not maximizing recycling efforts because they can save dollars for every ton of material that is not tossed into the trash.''

"This grant program plays a key part in our effort to boost recycling throughout the state. The grants we are announcing today will help our municipalities purchase the best and biggest recycling containers, educate residents and businesses, and support a dedicated recycling staff.

In 2010, New Jersey generated 9.8 million tons of municipal solid waste, of which 3.9 million tons were recycled, for a 40 percent Municipal Solid Waste recycling rate, an increase from the 2009 rate of 37.1 percent.

In total, including all forms of waste, New Jersey recycled more than 13.3 million tons of the 22 million tons of solid waste generated in 2010. The overall recycling rate increased slightly from 56.9 in 2009 to 60.5 percent in 2010. This can partially be attributed to a nearly 1 million ton increase in recycling of various types of scrap metals as prices of those metals rose in 2010. Also, there was a marked increase in recycling of petroleum contaminated soils, plus concrete and asphalt, due to a more active construction sector.

For more information on recycling visit: http://www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/ or www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/stats.htm

Middletown Twp. Police report they are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash which occurred at State Highway 36 Southbound and Wilson Avenue at 8:06 PM., causing a portion of the highway to be closed for about two hours.

Police report a 31 year old female from the Port Monmouth section of Middletown was struck and killed while crossing the intersection with another pedestrian.  Police report the vehicle that struck her was operated by a 24 year old male from Long Branch.

The female victim was treated at the scene and transported to Riverview Medical Center where she was pronounced dead at 8:54 pm.

The crash is being investigated by Cpl. Cliff O’Hara and Ptl. Darren Simon of the Middletown Twp. Police Traffic Bureau. Police ask that anyone who witnessed the crash should contact the Traffic Bureau at 732-615-2045

Middletown Police were assisted at the scene by Middletown E.M.S., Monoc Paramedics, Middletown Fire Department, Middletown Fire Police, NJSP Incident Management Team and NJDOT Highway Response Team.

Further information will be released as details become available.

SANDY HOOK -- The Marine Academy at Sandy Hook (MAST) has suffered water damage from Hurricane Sandy, but has been able to find a new temporary location.

The MAST High School will relocate to St. Joseph’s grammar school in Keyport. The grammar school is no longer used as a full time school and therefore no students will be displaced while the site is used to hold classes for MAST students.

The school is located  at 376 Maple Place in Keyport, NJ. All parents and students have been notified of the location of the new site and classes are anticipated to begin on Tuesday, November 13.

MAST will return to Sandy Hook as soon as repairs can be made.

• Help for Hurricane Sandy Victims The IRS is providing tax relief, other help to Sandy victims.
• Hurricane Sandy Relief  Tax relief is available to victims of Hurricane Sandy.
• Diesel Fuel Penalty Waived  The IRS is waiving the diesel fuel penalty due to Sandy.

FREEHOLD, NJ -- In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Monmouth County residents who have suffered flood damage have to take precautions against mold.

“Mold can damage your home, possessions and cause health problems,” said Freeholder John P. Curley, liaison to the Monmouth County Health Department. “The longer you allow mold to grow, the greater the risk and the more difficult the cleanup. As soon as it is safe to return home, you should begin cleaning and drying your home and possessions.”

“Under the right conditions, molds produce spores that spread easily through the air to form new mold growths, or colonies,” said Michael Meddis, Monmouth County’s public health coordinator. “These conditions are moisture, nutrients (nearly anything organic) and a place to grow.”

Usually you do not need to have the mold tested and tests are rarely useful to answer questions about health concerns. However, some insurance companies and legal services may require sampling for documentation if you are filing a claim.

The best way to avoid mold hazards is to hire a reputable firm that is licensed and trained in dealing with water damage and mold remediation. As that may be difficult after a disaster, you may have to do the cleanup yourself. If so, follow these steps:

• First take an inventory. Compile a room-by-room inventory of missing or damaged goods, and include prices, manufacturer’s names, and dates and places of purchases. Take photographs to document the damages for insurance purposes.

• Remove wet carpeting right away. It’s best to discard wet carpeting. If you do salvage it, clean, disinfect and dry it quickly. Never reuse flooded padding.

• Remove and discard: all items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as mattresses, carpet padding, upholstered furniture, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and paper products).
• Remove and discard: drywall and insulation that was contaminated with sewage or flood waters.
• Thoroughly clean: all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.

• Dry all wet materials as quickly as possible. If possible, use air conditioning or heat  with fans and dehumidifiers. If you have no power and can get access to a generator, use the generator to run a dehumidifier indoors to help remove moisture from the air.

For more information, click http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/ at www.ready.nj.gov/ webpage.

Freehold, NJ - The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office postponed all Sheriff’s Sales that were scheduled for Monday November 5, 2012, due to the state emergency declared by Governor Chris Christie regarding the recent hurricane and the prolonged closure of county offices.

If you are affected by a foreclosure, please contact their office at 732-431-7139.

FREEHOLD, NJ – Super storm Sandy has caused major heartache and headache for residents with water, roof and landscape damage. This kind of disaster repair work requires professional services to make your home or business inhabitable and safe again.

“You may feel pressured to hire the first contractor you speak with because your life has been turned upside down,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs. “But don’t. You should take a few simple steps to make sure you’re dealing with an honest person or business.”

Monmouth County officials are warning residents about phony building contractors and other scam artists who may attempt to take advantage of your vulnerability as a disaster survivor.

Here are some of the most common fraud situations and what you can do to protect yourself:

Phony housing inspectors: If your home’s damage is visible from the street, you may be especially vulnerable to the phony housing inspector who claims to represent FEMA or the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). You should: 

• Ask to see the inspector’s identification badge if he or she does not offer to show it. A FEMA or SBA shirt or jacket is not proof of someone’s affiliation with the government. All federal employees and contractors carry official, laminated photo identification.
• Do not give bank account numbers to an inspector claiming to be affiliated with the federal government. FEMA inspectors never require banking information.
• Understand that FEMA housing inspectors verify damage, but do not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs. They also do not determine cost estimates.

Fraudulent building contractors:  Damage visible from the street can also bring out sham contractors who visit your home offering to begin work immediately. They take your money and disappear, leaving behind unfinished work and unsafe homes. 

• Before hiring a contractor, check with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 800-242-5846 to make sure the contractor is registered.
• Ask for a copy of the contractor’s liability insurance and verify that the policy is valid.
• All contracts should be in writing, and reviewed before being signed.

Fake offers of state or federal aid: If someone claiming to be from FEMA or the state visits, calls

or emails you asking for your Social Security number, bank account number or other sensitive information, beware. That information could be sold to identity thieves or used to defraud you.

A twist on this scam is the phone or in-person solicitor who promises to speed up the insurance, disaster assistance or building-permit process. Then there are scam artists who promise you a disaster grant and ask for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.

“Your first and best defense is to know the most common post-disaster fraud practices,” Freeholder Serena DiMaso said. “Be sure you register with FEMA and only work with authorized FEMA inspectors.”

Here’s what to do:

Register with FEMA – then and only then should you provide your Social Security number and banking information. Register by calling FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 1-800-462-7585, or going online at www.disasterassistance.gov or via a web-enabled phone at m.fema.gov. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services, call 1-800-621-3362. FEMA will not call you to register; you must call FEMA.

Know that federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money.  FEMA and SBA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.  If in doubt, do not give out information, and report people claiming to be government workers to local police.

Price Gouging: Excessive price increases are illegal. Check with the Monmouth County Division of Consumer Affairs at 732-431-7900 if you suspect prices are too high.

Charity Scams: Before donating, be sure to investigate to make sure the organization asking for donations is registered to solicit in New Jersey.  Ask how the money will be used. For other questions, residents can contact the Monmouth County Division of Consumer Affairs at 732-431-7900 or the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs office at www.NJConsumerAffairs.gov or by calling 800-242-5846.

As always, the Monmouth County Consumer Affairs staff has some great information and reminders for you to take into consideration before you move forward with your repairs.

The Consumer Affairs department is a law enforcement agency, created and funded by the Monmouth County Board of ChosenFreeholders. It protects against consumer fraud and dishonest and unscrupulous business practices by enforcing the state Consumer Fraud Act and other regulations.

Additional information about fraud and other Consumer Affairs programs can be found on the countyWeb siteat www.visitmonmouth.com or by calling 732-431-7900. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to4:30 p.m.

MIDDLETOWN, NJ– Poricy Park Conservancy announces that Santa will be visiting the Poricy Park Nature Center on Saturday, November 24th & Sunday, November 25th; and Saturday, December 1st & Sunday, December 2nd; 1:00pm to 3:00pm each day. Poricy Park is located at 345 Oak Hill Road in Middletown.

Children can have their photo taken with Santa and make a craft in our classroom. The Nature Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday music, candy canes and refreshments. Fee is $5 per photo for members and $10 per photo for non-members.

While visiting, guests are invited to stop in to the 25th Annual Holiday & Craft Shop held at the Annex. The Shop will run daily Friday, November 23 through Sunday, December 2, 2012; and on Friday, December 7 through Sunday, December 9, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Tickets are also available for the annual quilt raffle which will be drawn on the last day of the Holiday & Craft Shop. The queen-size quilt is handcrafted and donated by members of Rebecca's Reel Quilters of Poricy Park.

Poricy Park Conservancy is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) organization located in Middletown Township. All community and summer camp programs are run by Poricy Park Conservancy. Poricy Park is located at 345 Oak Hill Road in Middletown Township. With exceptional ecological resources, the 250 acre historical and nature site makes it one of the largest parks in Monmouth County. The Park offers recreational activities such as magnificent wooded hiking trails, bird watching, pristine pond settings, fishing, and a one-of-a-kind 70 million year-old Cretaceous fossil bed. Poricy Park is home to the 1770 NJ Historic Murray Farmhouse and Barn. The Nature Center is open Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm. For additional information, call the Nature Center at 732-842-5966 or visit www.poricypark.org

After hundreds of residents came forward to help their neighbors in the wake of Superstorm Sandy, the Township Committee has established a new advisory body, the Middletown Volunteer Corps, to manage the township’s wealth of kind-hearted volunteers.

The Middletown Volunteer Corps will manage volunteer services during recovery phase of Superstorm Sandy. The Volunteer Corps will also be available to supplement the services of emergency responders in times of need during future disasters and serve as a resource for future community-based activities and initiatives, explained Mayor Anthony P. Fiore.

Volunteers are currently needed to serve on the corps’ nine-member advisory committee. The advisory committee is charged with assisting the township in establishing a permanent registry of residents available to volunteer in times of emergency. The advisory committee will develop a strategic plan regarding the organization, structure and mission of the Middletown Volunteer Corp including strategies for recruitment, training and community-based activities in which volunteers can register to participate, he said.

“Middletown is well-known as a vibrant community with a very strong volunteer spirit,” Fiore said. “However, the volume of volunteers we encountered in the wake of Superstorm Sandy was intense. The experience highlighted the need to create a more permanent mechanism to register and dispatch volunteers where they are needed most at any given time.”

Residents interested in volunteering their time to assist in the creation and management of the Middletown Volunteer Corps are encouraged to submit an application on the Middletown Citizen Leadership Form. Applications should be sent to Middletown Citizen Leadership Act, c/o Township Clerk, Town Hall, 1 Kings Highway, Middletown, NJ 07748. Call 732-615-2015 for more information. The application can be downloaded from www.middletownnj.org. Look under the Boards and Commission section of the website.

Volunteer Application

Deadlines extended to request reimbursement for infrastructure repair and other disaster costs

 TRENTON, N.J. – Nonprofits that suffered damage from Hurricane Sandy are encouraged to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance (PA) funding to help them get back to the business of helping others.  The deadline to apply for FEMA Public Assistance has been extended to Dec. 30, 2012 in all 21 counties.  Michael Hall, FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer, granted the extension following a request from the New Jersey State Office of Emergency Management.  In the extension request, the state cited the unprecedented impact of Hurricane Sandy and the large number of organizations submitting Requests for Public Assistance, many of which have never before been involved in the PA process.

 In order to qualify for PA funding, the agency must be a private nonprofit organization or institution that owns or operates a facility that serves the general public and provides essential governmental services.  The basic categories of essential governmental services are: education, utility, emergency, medical, custodial care, irrigation and other services including museums, shelters and libraries.  See http://www.fema.gov/public-assitance-eligible-applicants for a listing of eligible private nonprofits.

Public Assistance is a program administered by the state of New Jersey and funded by FEMA. FEMA reimburses no less than 75 percent of the eligible costs for emergency protective measures and permanent restoration costs, including debris removal and infrastructure repair or replacement. FEMA specialists are available to help nonprofits through the application process.

The most important thing is to turn in an application. Applications are available on the front page of the NJ Office of Emergency Management website: http://www.state.nj.us/njoem/.

The Request for Public Assistance Form should be sent to:

Lt. Col. Jerome Hatfield
Alternate governor’s authorized representative
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management
P.O. Box 7068
West Trenton, N.J. 08628-0068
Attention: Lt. Jeffrey Mottley
Telephone: 609-882-2000, ext. 2700 or 2500
Fax number: 609-882-1694

As of December 11, FEMA has conducted 653 applicant kick-off meetings, logged 1,154 Requests for Public Assistance and approved 54 large projects totaling $103,295,781.

TRENTON, N.J. – Nearly six weeks after Hurricane Sandy ravaged New Jersey, survivors have a chance to reconsider a decision they made in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.

Thousands of New Jersey survivors answered “will not relocate” when FEMA housing inspectors asked what they planned to do while repairs are being made on their homes or apartments. That response made them ineligible for FEMA temporary housing assistance.

Some who would like FEMA help today may find the window still open.

Here’s what to do:

If it has been less than 30 days since you received a FEMA determination letter, call 800-621-3362 and tell FEMA that your housing situation has changed and that you’d like temporary housing assistance.

However, if it has been more than 30 days since you received a FEMA determination letter, you will need to reply in a letter to FEMA stating that you want to change your earlier    response, explain how your circumstances have changed and that you’d like FEMA temporary housing  assistance.

Survivors can follow up on previous applicationsonline at DisasterAssistance.gov, or by web-enabled mobile device at m.FEMA.gov. By phone or 711/VRS, call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585. Help is also available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers, which can be found at  www.fema.gov/DRCloc.

# # #

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

MIDDLETOWN POLICE ARRESTED MAN AFTER BURGLARY TO HOME

On December 18, 2012 at approximately 11:20 am police responded to a residence on Baldwin Avenue in Middletown in reference to a burglary in progress. Police received a call from a witness who observed a subject breaking into the residence. Patrolman Richard Raike and Corporal Thomas Meckier responded and observed the subject, identified as Julio Ponce, age 31, from Delawanna Avenue in Clifton, NJ, running from the house.

The officers pursued Ponce on foot and were able to apprehend him in the backyard of a residence located on Joycee Court with the assistance of Corporal Bernie Chenoweth. Police were also able to recover the stolen items from the residence. Ponce was charged with Burglary, Theft, Criminal Mischief, Resisting Arrest and Attempted Theft. He was held on $50,000.00 bail with no 10% option set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Middletown Police were assisted by Patrolman Kevin Geoghan and his K-9 partner Diablo of the Hazlet Township Police Department.

MIDDLETOWN POLICE REPORT RECENT ACTIVITY

Angel Vallone, age 36, from Carter Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 8, 2012 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein for Simple Assault. She was released pending a court date.

Roger Smith, age 53, from Ninth Street in Belford, NJ, arrested on December 8, 2012 by Patrolman Anthony Bumbico for Driving While Intoxicated. He was released pending a court date.

Luke Jacobs, age 18, from Mountain Street in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 8, 2012 by Patrolman Andrew Micalizzi on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Oceanport Municipal Court. He was held on $2,500.00 bail.

William Welch, age 34, from Chapman Terrace in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 7, 2012 by Patrolman Anthony Bumbico for Possession of Marijuana, Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. He was held on $22,500.00 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Jeron Redway, age 25, from Willow Drive in Ocean, NJ, arrested on December 10, 2012 by Patrolman James Beirne for Obstructing an Investigation and on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Middletown and Red Bank Municipal Courts and the Monmouth County Superior Court. He was held on $27,150.00 bail.

Erika Leonardi, age 35, from Tarpon Drive in Wall, NJ, arrested on December 10, 2012 by Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Violetta Borovaya, age 22, from Scenic Drive in Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 10, 2012 by Patrolman Brian McGrogan on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was released after posting $2,500.00 bail.

JD Rockafellow, age 23, from 34 ½ South Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 10, 2012 by Patrolman Christian Clark for Disorderly Conduct. He was released pending a court date.

Levys Sotomayor, age 30, from Monmouth Parkway in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 11, 2012 by Patrolman Charles Higgins for Simple Assault, Obstructing the Administration of Law and on Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg and Tinton Falls Municipal Court and the Ocean County Superior Court. He was held on $6,651.00 bail.

Kiernan Kelly, age 24, from Poricy Lane in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 12, 2012 by Patrolman Donald Coates on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Sea Bright and Rumson Municipal Court. He was released after posting $364.00 bail.

Christina Marraccini, age 24, from Bowne Road in Locust, NJ, arrested on December 12, 2012 by Patrolman Richard Belmonte on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Freehold Municipal Court. She was released after posting $350.00 bail.

Jennifer Smith, age 34, from Hudson Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 12, 2012 by Patrolman Albert Scott on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was released after posting $1,000.00 bail.

Thomas Emerson, age 34, from Hudson Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 12, 2012 by Patrolman Albert Scott on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court. He was released after posting $435.00 bail.

Patrick Davis, age 46, from 6^th Avenue in Asbury Park, NJ, arrested on December 13, 2012 by Patrolman John Mele on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Asbury Municipal Court. He was held on $101.00 bail.

Tara Murphy, age 38, from Cherry Street in Iselin, NJ, arrested on December 12, 2012 by Corporal George Freibott on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was held on $500.00 bail.

Kenneth White, age 21, from Richard Terrace in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 17, 2012 by Patrolman Nicholas Fenezia for Simple Assault. He was released on his own recognizance.

Tariq Wright, age 34, from Grand Avenue in East Orange, NJ, arrested on December 18, 2012 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood on Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $2,500.00 bail.

On December 17, 21012 Detective Best arrested a 13 year old male juvenile from Middletown, NJ, for Unannounced Videotaping. He was released pending a court date.

Karl Dorau, age 51, from Linden Avenue in Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 17, 2012 by Sergeant John Werner for Violation of a Court Order. He was released after posting $5,000.00 set by Judge Richard Thompson.

Brandon Ozelas, age 18, from Campbell Avenue in Belford, NJ, arrested on December 16, 2012 by Patrolman Robert Shannon for Simple Assault. He was released pending a court date.

Kathleen McAlister, age 31, from Garden Drive in Ocean, NJ, arrested on December 15, 2012 by Patrolman Charles Higgins on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Ocean Municipal Court. She was released after posting $190.00 bail.

April Bokay, age 21, from Walnut Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Patrolman Brady Carr for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Methamphetamine and on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Eatontown Municipal Court. She was released after posting $600.00 bail.

Melvin Clarida, age 25, from 123^rd Street in Queens, NY, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Corporal Gerald Weimer for Theft, Conspiracy, Criminal Attempt and Identity Theft. He was held on $230,000.00 bail set by Judge Francis Vernoia of the Monmouth County Superior Court.

Christopher Rosado, age 24, from Standish Drive in Howell, NJ, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Patrolman Charles Higgins on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the South Brunswick, Seaside Heights, Marlboro and Wall Municipal Courts. He was held on $2,850.00 bail.

Edward Conte, age 18, from Cherry Tree Farm Road in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Patrolman Christian Clark on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Red Bank Municipal Court. He was released after posting $120.00 bail.

Patrick Davis, age 46, from 6^th Avenue in Asbury Park, NJ, arrested on December 13, 2012 by Patrolman John Mele on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Asbury Park Municipal Court. He was released on his own recognizance.

Kevin Allen, age 29, from Powell Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Patrolman Christian Clark on Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $1,000.00.

Avery Jackson, age 25, from Firth Street in Jamaica, NY, arrested on December 14, 2012 by Corporal Cliff O’Hara for Possession of under 50 Grams of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Identity Theft and Theft. He was held on $230,000.00 bail set by Judge Francis Vernoia of the Monmouth County Superior Court.

Rachel Sawyer, age 24, from Kimberly Court in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on December 18, 2012 by Patrolman Richard Belmonte for Shoplifting from the Kohls Store. She was released pending a court date.

Dominick Bongiorno, age 62, from GreentreeTerreace in Lincroft, NJ, arrested on December 18, 2012 by Patrolman Anthony Gigante for Violation of a Court Order. He was released on his own recognizance.

Ashley Quellman, age 22 from Ocean Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on December 19, 2012 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood for Driving While Intoxicated. She was released pending a court date.

Middletown’s overall crime rate has decreased about six percent, according to the latest New Jersey State Police Uniform Crime Report.

“The Middletown Police Department, its Quality of Life Unit and a very supportive community deserve a large measure of credit for the decreased crime rate,” said Mayor Anthony P. Fiore.

The township’s overall crime rate for 2011 is 13.2 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants compared to a rate of 14.0 incidents in 2010. The township’s total crime index dropped to 881 in 2011, from 930 in 2010. Violent crimes decreased to 36 in 2011, from 46 the year before. Non-violent crimes also went down to 845 in 2011, from 884 in 2010, according to the report.

The Police Department’s Quality of Life Unit is utilized to aggressively identify and arrest those for community offenses that affect the community’s quality of life. The unit was responsible for the arrest of over 200 subjects through the end of 2011 for offenses such as narcotics, burglaries, receiving stolen property, warrants and other criminal activity, Police Chief Robert Oches said.

The Police Department also works closely with the township’s two Neighborhood Watch groups – one in Ideal Beach and another in the Fairview section of town. “We are beginning to see the positive impact that such groups, working in conjunction with the Police Department, can have on our community,” the Mayor said. “I encourage other neighborhoods to follow in their footsteps in the coming year.”

The overall crime rate in Monmouth County dropped about 2 percent to 23.7 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants from 24.2 incidents. Statewide the crime rate increased about 3 percent to 24.7 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants, according to the report.

The 45th annual New Jersey State Police Crime Report is based on statistics submitted to the New Jersey Uniform Crime Reporting System by every New Jersey law enforcement agency for the year 2011.  Information about 2012 will be released in December 2013. Visit www.njsp.org/info/ucr2011  to view the full report.

The holiday season can create its own stress. This stress can be especially trying for those recovering from Hurricane Sandy.

Free help is available just a phone call away for New Jersey survivors who feel overwhelmed during the holidays.

The New Jersey Disaster Mental Health Helpline at 877-294-4357 or TTY 877-294-4356 is open from 8 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. Hours for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All calls are free and confidential.  

The Federal Emergency Management Agency also supports a Disaster Mental Health Helpline run by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration where counselors are available 24 hours a day including New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The number is 800-985-5990.

Rest, exercise and healthy eating help the body deal with stress. But disaster-induced mental distress may include:

• Sleeping too much or too little.
• Stomach aches or headaches.
• Worrying a lot of the time; feeling guilty but not sure why.
• Lack of energy or always feeling tired.
• Severe disorientation or confusion.
• Overwhelming sense of guilt.
• Depression, sadness and feelings of hopelessness.
• Increased use of substances like drugs or alcohol.

Disaster survivors may doubt that happiness will ever be possible again. Talking about those feelings with friends or counselors can help.

Talking to someone can help survivors keep perspective. Eventually, these out-of-balance times  will improve. In the meantime, it is important to connect with others.

Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin today reminded residents that televisions, computers, electronic tablets, e-book readers, and monitors that have been replaced by new electronic holiday gifts cannot be thrown out with the trash but must be taken to designated recycling collection points as required by state law.

“Recycling of e-waste is taking hold across the state, and is steadily becoming routine,” Commissioner Martin said. “These devices can no longer be placed out on the curb. They must be taken to specially designated e-waste recycling drop-off points conveniently located throughout our municipalities and counties or to retailers that accept these materials.”

In Middletown, elctronics are Accepted at the Recycling Center Only. This includes Computer CPUs, VCRs, Printers, computer monitors, stereos, fax machines, televisions, copiers and laptops

Since taking effect on Jan. 1, 2011, the state’s Electronic Waste Management Act has dramatically increased the amount of e-waste that is recycled in the state, keeping potentially hazardous materials out of landfills and incinerators. Through the third quarter of 2012, more than 62 million pounds of e-waste have been diverted from the regular waste stream.

The law covers televisions and all personal or portable computers - including desktop, notebook and laptop computers, as well as computer monitors. Manufacturers of these devices now fund the collection of e-waste so that it is free for consumers.

The law does not require recycling of cell phones, DVD players, VCRs, game consoles, or other electronic devices, although retailers and service organizations provide drop-off opportunities for recycling of these items.

Discarded TVs, computers and computer monitors contain lead, mercury, cadmium, nickel, zinc, brominated flame retardants, and other potentially hazardous materials, while Cathode Ray Tubes, or CRTs, contain large amounts of lead that is used to shield consumers from radiation.

Electronic waste makes up 2 percent of the solid waste disposed in New Jersey. But as a result of consumer demand for new technologies, and subsequent disposal of old devices, e-waste is growing faster than any other component of the solid waste stream.

Devices covered by the law must be taken to a drop-off point, such as a county or municipal collection center or a participating electronics retail store. Most municipal and county drop-off points require proof of residency.

Many electronics retailers, including Best Buy and Staples, and community-based service programs, most notably Goodwill Industries and the Salvation Army, also accept these materials.

“The DEP is constantly working to improve the public’s understanding of proper disposal of e-waste,” said DEP Assistant Commissioner for Environmental Management Jane Kozinksi. “Whether you’ve received a new television, iPad, or desktop computer or gave one as a gift, be sure to spread the word on proper disposal of old electronics to family and friends.’’

Residents should contact their county solid waste agency or municipal recycling coordinator for e-waste recycling options currently available in their cities and towns.

For more information on New Jersey’s E-Cycle program, including a list of e-waste recycling locations statewide, a connection to all 21 county recycling web sites, and  information for consumers on “front door’’ pickup service to deal with extra heavy televisions or for people with special needs, visit: http://www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/ewaste/index.html

Some Hurricane Sandy survivors who ask for disaster assistance wonder why they receive applications for loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Receiving an SBA loan application is part of the process that begins when survivors register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for help after a disaster.

Applications of those registering with FEMA are evaluated, based on the information they supply, for available disaster assistance. This includes money for essential repairs or replacement of homes and personal property, such as automobiles, lost as a result of the disaster.

Those found to be eligible for SBA’s low-interest, long-term loans are sent applications. The applications for SBA loans must be returned by Jan. 30, 2013.

Filling out and returning the SBA documents does not obligate the survivor to accept a loan, if offered. But completing the application is a necessary step for those needing money for more than housing assistance.

FEMA’s Individual Assistance program can provide grants to repair or replace personal property items such as clothing, furniture, cars or appliances damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

Follow FEMA online at www.fema.gov/blog, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema,           and www.youtube.com/fema.  Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate's activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. 

As recovery efforts continue in New Jersey through the holiday season, it is important that residents keep in touch with their elderly relatives, friends and neighbors, or anyone they may know with a disability or access and functional need.

Seniors or individuals with special needs previously living on their own may be dependent on others    for food, shelter or the basic necessities of daily living. Those used to assisted living may face disruptions in their normal routines or a change in their usual caregivers.

Here are some simple ways to help:

• Arrange weekly or bi-weekly visits.
• Schedule a regular day when you can call to check in.
• Assist them in recovering their physical possessions.
• Help them return to familiar surroundings with friends and acquaintances as soon as possible.
• Make sure they have needed medical and financial assistance.
• Help them re-establish social networks.
• Monitor their nutritional and medicinal needs.
• If you do not live close, ask a neighbor of theirs to look in on them; make sure they have your up-to-date contact information.

Individuals with access or functional needs may include those who are non-English speakers or have limited English proficiency, those with special dietary needs or medical conditions, those who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who are visually or mobility impaired.

Seniors and other survivors can register with FEMA at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by smartphone at m.fema.gov. Survivors may also call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585. For 711 Relay or Video Relay Services, call 800-621-3362.

To contact the Area Agency on Aging in your county, visit www.state.nj.us/health/senior/sa_aaa.shtml or call the nationwide toll-free number at 877-222-3737. Anyone seeking mental health services can call the toll-free disaster mental health helpline at 877-294-HELP (4357) or TTY 877-294-4356.

Garden State residents can also call the New Jersey 2-1-1 hotline for more information on state, local and voluntary organizations in the area that may help with specific unmet needs.

Hurricane Sandy survivors know how important it is to be prepared for disasters. 

This year, as you make your New Year’s resolutions, the Federal Emergency Management Agency urges you to have a disaster plan and integrate smartphones into it.

Here are some preparedness tips:

• Know the hazards and risks in your area.
• Create an emergency information document by going to www.ready.gov  and downloading FEMA’sFamily Emergency Plan.
• Know how to communicate with and find your loved ones when a disaster strikes.
• Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen and pick a meeting place in case you can’t return home.
• Ask an out-of-state friend to be your family contact.
• Discuss what to do in an evacuation and make plans for your pets.
• Teach children how and when to call 911.
• Build two emergency supply kits – one for the home and one for the car – that include water, food, blankets and first aid supplies in the event you lose power or are stranded in your car.
• Survivors can also make a smartphone part of the family disaster kit.  Learn how to send updates via text and email from your mobile phone to your contacts in case voice communication is not available. (www.ready.gov/get-tech-ready)

For more information, visit Ready.gov and CitizenCorps.gov or download FEMA, American Red Cross and NOAA weather apps.  You can also follow FEMA’s readiness campaign on Twitter using the hashtag #R2BR2013.

As part of Middletown’s annual Organization Day, Committeeman Gerard P. Scharfenberger was selected to serve as Mayor and Committeewoman Stephanie C. Murray as Deputy Mayor for 2013.

Mayor Scharfenberger noted during his organization day comments that priorities and goals this year include continued recovery from Superstorm Sandy, aggressively pursuing the township’s mission to replace property taxes with other sources of revenue to pay for township services and establishing the Buy Middletown Property Tax Relief Benefit card program. This program, which is under legal review, would reward residents for patronizing local businesses by reducing property taxes by a percentage of the amount spent at participating Middletown businesses.

In addition, Mayor Scharfenberger noted he is looking forward to the official groundbreaking for the new Sloan Kettering Cancer facility this spring, the opening of the Junior Titans ice rink at the site of the former Middletown Swim and Tennis Club, and the opening of Trinity Hall School at Croydon Hall. The township sold the Swim Club to the New Jersey Junior Titans last year. The township has leased Croydon Hall to the new all-girls school.

The selection of the 2013 Mayor and Deputy Mayor came after Committeeman Stephen G. Massell accepted the oath of office to serve his second consecutive 3-year term on the Township Committee. Massell served as Deputy Mayor in 2012. Oaths of office were issued by Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno.

The members of the 2013 Township Committee are: Mayor Gerard P. Scharfenberger, Deputy Mayor Stephanie C. Murray, Committeeman Anthony P. Fiore, Committeeman Stephen G. Massell, and Committeeman Kevin M. Settembrino.

Two police officers marked their promotions with oaths of office this year. Sergeant First Class William Straniero has been promoted to Lieutenant. Corporal Douglas Wiatrak has been promoted to Sergeant.

Middletown’s Fire Chiefs marked their appointments with oaths of office as well. They are: Fire Chief John D'Atilio, Sr., Deputy Chief Peter Laimann, First Assistant Chief Rick W. Hibell and Second Assistant John Gorsenger, Jr. and Third Assistant Anthony Citarella.

Many volunteers turned out to accept oaths of office to serve on the Township's boards, committees and commissions. There are more than 20 township boards, committees and commissions. Each group focuses on different aspects of the community and works to enhance Middletown’s quality of life. Residents are appointed to these positions by the Township Committee

A new board established this year is the Middletown Volunteer Corps. The corps will manage volunteer services during the recovery phase of Superstorm Sandy. The Volunteer Corps will also be available to supplement the services of emergency responders in times of need during future disasters and serve as a resource for future community-based activities and initiatives.

Middletown holds an Organization Day annually at Town Hall. Organization Day was held on 6, 2013.  The invocation was offered by Reverend Joseph E. Hein from Westminster Presbyterian Church of Middletown.

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Organization Day Comments - Scharfenberger Murray, Fiore

MIDDLETOWN, NJ – The bridge on Bray Avenue over Pews Creek in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown is closed in the interest of public safety.

While only the bridge is closed, traffic between Main Street and Thompson Avenue is being detoured. Bray Avenue will be open to local traffic only. The bridge is closed to vehicle traffic until further notice. Pedestrian access will continue. Detour signs have been posted.

Prior to the closure, Monmouth County had been in the process of preparing plans and specification for the replacement of the 60-year old bridge.

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