The calendar says there’s still another three weeks of summer but for many if not most of us this upcoming weekend really is the swan song of the summer season. While not as noticeable as it used to be many years ago, it’s still amazing to see how things change after Labor Day when tourists and most summer residents return home. There was a time when that meant the end of traffic but of course in most of Ocean County you might not even realize that a change is taking effect. Beach areas are the exception to that
and no matter what the weather next week finding a parking spot will not be a problem.
Even the most ardent fans and alumni will admit shock and surprise at how the fortunes of Rutgers football have changed in the last year. The Scarlet Knights opened the season Thursday Night with a 38-3 rout of Buffalo and expectations are very high in Piscataway where a football ticket has become a hot commodity. It was not all that long ago you could walk up the box office minutes before kickoff and get a good seat…now there’s a waiting list for tickets as all 8 home games are sold out. I was one of those who said for years that Rutgers would never be a big time football school but like others I’ve had to eat crow as Greg Schiano has made Red & White popular colors in New Jersey.
Those are also the colors of the Philadelphia Phillies who plan on making the month of September a memorable one in a city usually thinking only about the Eagles by Labor Day. Last Saturday they Phillies were 7 games behind the division-leading Mets but after sweeping New York they head into this weekend only two games out of first place. Citizens Bank Park is also no longer a home away from home for Mets fans as I found you yesterday when we were a small minority as compared to just a couple of years ago.
Toms River’s Todd Frazier has been promoted to the Cincinnati Reds single-A team in Dayton, Ohio and is 1-7 in his first two games with the Dragons.
Frazier batted .319 with Billings in the rookie league before the promotion
and when the season ends this weekend will report to the Reds instructional league in Sarasota, Florida. Another Toms River resident, Jimmy Principe
is also headed to the instructional league in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization after completing his season in Missoula, Montana.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Saying Goodbye To Vic Kubu
Nine days from now fans will flock to Manasquan High School to watch the Warriors open their season against Holmdel. They’ll pack the stands, many having walked from the neighborhood, and cheer as the 2007 edition of the Big Blue run onto the field. Talk will center on the possibility of winning an 11th state sectional championship and how they can replace a slew of big time players from last year who led Squan to a perfect season
and ranking among the best teams in New Jersey. If you look quick you’ll think this is no different than any other season.
However it will be very different because Vic Kubu, the heart, soul and brains of Manasquan football won’t be on the field although I get a sense his presence will be felt next Saturday and every other Saturday. Yesterday nearly 2000 jammed the high school gym to say goodbye to the coach who brought success and respect to a school and entire community. Kubu fought the good fight before losing his year and-a-half battle with cancer Sunday at the age of 65.
The memorial service brought out friends, coaches, alumni and players past and present. A testament to Kubu’s impact was that current players from not only Manasquan but Wall, Raritan, Middletown North and Middletown South packed the gymnasium for a tribute which included touching and humorous words from his daughter Wendy Kubu Callahan, former school superintendent Carole Morris and interim head coach Pete Cahill, who shared the sidelines with Vic for more than 20 years.
After the 90-minute service many milled around Vic Kubu Field, where tents were set up with refreshments and videos playing magical Manasquan football moments. There was also a display of Kubu’s 11 state sectional titles, including one at Middletown North. Team photos and memorabilia, family pictures and his famous briefcase brought smiles and comfort to those who knew him best. It seemed like many didn’t want the day to end, using the time to share stories about a unique individual whose life was dominated by five F’s…..family, friendship, faith, football and fishing.
Today the Manasquan football team goes about its task of getting ready for a new season knowing that their old coach is very much still a part of them…that will never change.
Comment received via email:
Kevin,
This mornings update was tremendous. To wake up and hear you pay tribute to a great man was a great way to start the day. Tears came to my eyes thinking about Coach. As always you did a wonderful job in your brief memorial. As I never played for him, I had the pleasure of meeting him back in the 90’s as he and his coaches would come into my Bagel store several times a week. I became a Vic Kubu fan and admirer long before I knew about his accomplishments back then. To hear and read the tributes being paid to him, makes me feel proud to know that I crossed paths for a brief moment in my life with not only a great teacher/coach but a role model of a person. May God Bless Coach Kubu and his family.
Regards,
Mike Galeotafiore
and ranking among the best teams in New Jersey. If you look quick you’ll think this is no different than any other season.
However it will be very different because Vic Kubu, the heart, soul and brains of Manasquan football won’t be on the field although I get a sense his presence will be felt next Saturday and every other Saturday. Yesterday nearly 2000 jammed the high school gym to say goodbye to the coach who brought success and respect to a school and entire community. Kubu fought the good fight before losing his year and-a-half battle with cancer Sunday at the age of 65.
The memorial service brought out friends, coaches, alumni and players past and present. A testament to Kubu’s impact was that current players from not only Manasquan but Wall, Raritan, Middletown North and Middletown South packed the gymnasium for a tribute which included touching and humorous words from his daughter Wendy Kubu Callahan, former school superintendent Carole Morris and interim head coach Pete Cahill, who shared the sidelines with Vic for more than 20 years.
After the 90-minute service many milled around Vic Kubu Field, where tents were set up with refreshments and videos playing magical Manasquan football moments. There was also a display of Kubu’s 11 state sectional titles, including one at Middletown North. Team photos and memorabilia, family pictures and his famous briefcase brought smiles and comfort to those who knew him best. It seemed like many didn’t want the day to end, using the time to share stories about a unique individual whose life was dominated by five F’s…..family, friendship, faith, football and fishing.
Today the Manasquan football team goes about its task of getting ready for a new season knowing that their old coach is very much still a part of them…that will never change.
Comment received via email:
Kevin,
This mornings update was tremendous. To wake up and hear you pay tribute to a great man was a great way to start the day. Tears came to my eyes thinking about Coach. As always you did a wonderful job in your brief memorial. As I never played for him, I had the pleasure of meeting him back in the 90’s as he and his coaches would come into my Bagel store several times a week. I became a Vic Kubu fan and admirer long before I knew about his accomplishments back then. To hear and read the tributes being paid to him, makes me feel proud to know that I crossed paths for a brief moment in my life with not only a great teacher/coach but a role model of a person. May God Bless Coach Kubu and his family.
Regards,
Mike Galeotafiore
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Gutless Comments
As some of you probably know I wear many different hats at WOBM and the one which allows me to do this segment each weekday is one of my
favorites. Simply put I’m like a newspaper columnist but instead of writing my words for you to read I read them for you to hear. For the last couple of years though you can also read the Hometown View as it’s posted on a blog on our website each day…thank goodness for spell check.
That blog also allows you to comment on what it is I’m talking about and on occasion I will get feedback from listeners which I always welcome. When you do anything where you’re giving an opinion you will no doubt often tick off as many as you will satisfy. I have always looked forward to discussing issues with people and there have been occasions where my opinion was changed because of a healthy dialogue.
The nature of this business is to understand not everyone likes what you do and you certainly can’t get too upset by those who are clearly not fans. However what really ticks me off is those who take shots and refuse to give you a chance to respond and that’s what I have with a frequent critic who hides under the name “anonymous.” This gutless weasel often posts a comment on my blog and it’s almost always a criticism of the subject matter. If I do something which addresses sports in any manner he or she rips me for talking about sports. If it’s something personal then I get ripped for wasting time by talking about myself or family (I can only imagine what this is going to bring). My guess is this person knows me a little because one comment was about my lack of athletic prowess in high school which I guess means I should not have the forum to talk about sports.
Listen my ego can certainly handle this and I haven’t lost a minute’s sleep but all I want is a chance to address “anonymous” on the phone or even via an email. I’m probably not going to get that chance although certainly he or she is going to hear and or read this. So with that in mind let me make this perfectly clear…if you don’t like me or what I have to say than do what most intelligent people would…simply ignore me. Life will be better for both of us without each other.
(Webmaster's note: All comments are subject to review, however it has always been WOBM's policy not to publish unsigned comments).
favorites. Simply put I’m like a newspaper columnist but instead of writing my words for you to read I read them for you to hear. For the last couple of years though you can also read the Hometown View as it’s posted on a blog on our website each day…thank goodness for spell check.
That blog also allows you to comment on what it is I’m talking about and on occasion I will get feedback from listeners which I always welcome. When you do anything where you’re giving an opinion you will no doubt often tick off as many as you will satisfy. I have always looked forward to discussing issues with people and there have been occasions where my opinion was changed because of a healthy dialogue.
The nature of this business is to understand not everyone likes what you do and you certainly can’t get too upset by those who are clearly not fans. However what really ticks me off is those who take shots and refuse to give you a chance to respond and that’s what I have with a frequent critic who hides under the name “anonymous.” This gutless weasel often posts a comment on my blog and it’s almost always a criticism of the subject matter. If I do something which addresses sports in any manner he or she rips me for talking about sports. If it’s something personal then I get ripped for wasting time by talking about myself or family (I can only imagine what this is going to bring). My guess is this person knows me a little because one comment was about my lack of athletic prowess in high school which I guess means I should not have the forum to talk about sports.
Listen my ego can certainly handle this and I haven’t lost a minute’s sleep but all I want is a chance to address “anonymous” on the phone or even via an email. I’m probably not going to get that chance although certainly he or she is going to hear and or read this. So with that in mind let me make this perfectly clear…if you don’t like me or what I have to say than do what most intelligent people would…simply ignore me. Life will be better for both of us without each other.
(Webmaster's note: All comments are subject to review, however it has always been WOBM's policy not to publish unsigned comments).
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Think Snow
What kind of sick person would on such a perfect day at the end of the summer dare to direct your attention to the Millennium Shore Stormwatch program which for most only kicks in during the worst of winter?
The answer is the kind of person who was asked to do so because now is the time to gear up for Stormwatch….not on a morning when snow
and ice is falling.
As I have said in the past there is nothing like a snow day here at the radio station when our nerves and patience are tested…sometimes to the limit.
However we recognize the importance of providing important information to our listeners and over the years we have made many changes in an attempt to get accurate information to you in the quickest possible manner while also realizing that we can’t spend 50 minutes of every hour telling you what’s closed or delayed.
In the last few days we have begun emailing letters to all those enrolled in Stormwatch last year explaining how they can verify key information and make necessary changes. If you were in our website-based program last year and have not received anything from us in the last week or so I will tell you at the end what you can do. The same goes for those not part of our program in the past.
The key factor here is it’s a website-based program in which a contact person or persons from each school, government agency, civic organization, club, etc. can go on the Stormwatch website and enter the weather-related information and they can do this any time without waiting to call the radio station. This insures accuracy and also allows you to post the announcement ASAP as listeners can go on line and view the information without having to wait for it to be read on the air. We’ve also taken steps this year to improve the speed of our site which was a problem at times last year.
As the technology has improved I have told you the past couple of years it’s vital that ALL organizations have someone who can use a computer to handle this task because we are moving further and further away from taking announcements over the phone. The responsibility must be yours and you can’t use the excuse that nobody has a computer any longer. We are happy to be the vehicle that gets information to the public but you have to help us drive that vehicle.
Not only have we upgraded our service this year but there is NO CHARGE to participate and that includes businesses and for-profit daycares that meet certain criteria. If you want or need more information on our Stormwatch program then please email Dan Alexander at dan.alexander@mrgnj.com. You can also call our business office at (732) 269-0927 and we’ll try and assist you.
While snow season may be months away we’re still very much in Hurricane season so don’t wait until the last minute.
The answer is the kind of person who was asked to do so because now is the time to gear up for Stormwatch….not on a morning when snow
and ice is falling.
As I have said in the past there is nothing like a snow day here at the radio station when our nerves and patience are tested…sometimes to the limit.
However we recognize the importance of providing important information to our listeners and over the years we have made many changes in an attempt to get accurate information to you in the quickest possible manner while also realizing that we can’t spend 50 minutes of every hour telling you what’s closed or delayed.
In the last few days we have begun emailing letters to all those enrolled in Stormwatch last year explaining how they can verify key information and make necessary changes. If you were in our website-based program last year and have not received anything from us in the last week or so I will tell you at the end what you can do. The same goes for those not part of our program in the past.
The key factor here is it’s a website-based program in which a contact person or persons from each school, government agency, civic organization, club, etc. can go on the Stormwatch website and enter the weather-related information and they can do this any time without waiting to call the radio station. This insures accuracy and also allows you to post the announcement ASAP as listeners can go on line and view the information without having to wait for it to be read on the air. We’ve also taken steps this year to improve the speed of our site which was a problem at times last year.
As the technology has improved I have told you the past couple of years it’s vital that ALL organizations have someone who can use a computer to handle this task because we are moving further and further away from taking announcements over the phone. The responsibility must be yours and you can’t use the excuse that nobody has a computer any longer. We are happy to be the vehicle that gets information to the public but you have to help us drive that vehicle.
Not only have we upgraded our service this year but there is NO CHARGE to participate and that includes businesses and for-profit daycares that meet certain criteria. If you want or need more information on our Stormwatch program then please email Dan Alexander at dan.alexander@mrgnj.com. You can also call our business office at (732) 269-0927 and we’ll try and assist you.
While snow season may be months away we’re still very much in Hurricane season so don’t wait until the last minute.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Remembering Vic Kubu
When Manasquan beat West Deptford 28-0 last December 2nd it capped a
perfect season for the Warriors with many calling them among the best teams in Shore Conference history. Hundreds of people joined the celebration on the field which seemed like it would never end and many of them shared the same thought I had…if this is Vic Kubu’s final football memory than it’s a heck of a way to go out.
When I got the phone call early Sunday morning that Kubu had died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer and complications at age 65 I immediately went back to that December afternoon less than 9 months ago. Nobody wanted to say it but everyone thought it could be the final game of his legendary coaching career. Kubu never complained publicly but his close friends and assistant coaches knew how tough it was for him to handle the rigors of coaching while fighting the disease and treatments, which made him sick and weak.
His doctor wouldn’t let him on the field so the feisty Kubu coached from the press box and I remember him climbing down with a few minutes left in what would be the 263rd and final victory of his career. We were broadcasting the game on the radio and as he came down the stairs I gave him a smile and thumbs-up signal which he returned with a slight shake of his head. He then made his way across the field where he hugged players and coaches and as the game ended it seemed like the entire town of Manasquan made its way onto what was then Warrior Field and is now Vic Kubu Field. The name was changed in the spring and credit the Board of Education with making that appropriate change while Kubu was still alive.
The numbers tell you what a great coach he was. A record of 263-71-5 as a head coach, starting at Middletown North in 1975 before moving to his alma mater ten years later. 11 State Sectional titles, 10 of them with his beloved Big Blue Warriors, 18 Shore Conference Divisional titles, 7 undefeated seasons. As great as they are…those are just numbers. What you can’t always see is the impact Coach Kubu had on his players and the community he worked in and lived in. He made fall Saturdays a coming together which usually ended with another victory. Manasquan never had the best facilities and the field looks pretty much the same as when I was in high school. However what they had on the sidelines was a great coach who leaves a legacy and memories that will never be forgotten.
perfect season for the Warriors with many calling them among the best teams in Shore Conference history. Hundreds of people joined the celebration on the field which seemed like it would never end and many of them shared the same thought I had…if this is Vic Kubu’s final football memory than it’s a heck of a way to go out.
When I got the phone call early Sunday morning that Kubu had died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer and complications at age 65 I immediately went back to that December afternoon less than 9 months ago. Nobody wanted to say it but everyone thought it could be the final game of his legendary coaching career. Kubu never complained publicly but his close friends and assistant coaches knew how tough it was for him to handle the rigors of coaching while fighting the disease and treatments, which made him sick and weak.
His doctor wouldn’t let him on the field so the feisty Kubu coached from the press box and I remember him climbing down with a few minutes left in what would be the 263rd and final victory of his career. We were broadcasting the game on the radio and as he came down the stairs I gave him a smile and thumbs-up signal which he returned with a slight shake of his head. He then made his way across the field where he hugged players and coaches and as the game ended it seemed like the entire town of Manasquan made its way onto what was then Warrior Field and is now Vic Kubu Field. The name was changed in the spring and credit the Board of Education with making that appropriate change while Kubu was still alive.
The numbers tell you what a great coach he was. A record of 263-71-5 as a head coach, starting at Middletown North in 1975 before moving to his alma mater ten years later. 11 State Sectional titles, 10 of them with his beloved Big Blue Warriors, 18 Shore Conference Divisional titles, 7 undefeated seasons. As great as they are…those are just numbers. What you can’t always see is the impact Coach Kubu had on his players and the community he worked in and lived in. He made fall Saturdays a coming together which usually ended with another victory. Manasquan never had the best facilities and the field looks pretty much the same as when I was in high school. However what they had on the sidelines was a great coach who leaves a legacy and memories that will never be forgotten.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Last Vacation Of Summer
(Kevin is off until Monday, August 27)
I’m out of here after today and going on vacation although I’m not leaving the area and planning on enjoying the beach while my son leaves for his senior year at Penn State and my daughter gets ready for her sophomore year of high school. Some of my fellow co-workers have been busting me about taking what they perceive as a lot of vacation time but in truth I get the same 3 weeks as most of them do. However I need to use all mine before the start of the high school football season which kicks off in just a little more than three weeks.
I have to throw out a comment on the lawsuit filed by a member of the Rutgers women’s basketball team Tuesday against radio personality Don Imus and CBS. Kia Vaughn filed the suit in New York alleging slander and defamation of character and damage done to her reputation. This comes more than four months after Imus was fired for comments made about the Scarlet Knights in what was a poor attempt at humor. Rutgers officials say they are not connected to the lawsuit, which does not have a dollar amount tied to it. However the suit does claim that Vaughn was humiliated, embarrassed and publicly mocked and the full effect and damage remains to be seen.
To be honest the Rutgers players and program gained much more then they lost over this incident. Claims that the comments took away from their accomplishments are simply not true…as a matter of fact Rutgers got more notoriety for losing the NCAA championship game than Tennessee did for winning it. What’s more the nation got to see first-hand the quality of the women who comprise the team and my guess is that when all is said and done the players and program will emerge the big winners. Ironically the lawsuit was filed on the same day that Imus reached agreement with CBS on his contract and subsequent lawsuit against the network for firing him.
Comment on the passing of Yankee great Phil Rizzuto. As a lifelong Mets fan and Yankee basher I loved the scooter. There was nothing like listening to him broadcast a game, especially when he worked with Bill White & Frank Messer.
How to you humble a 9-time sportscaster of the year? My assignment tonight is to help announce the Hermit Crab races at Salty’s on Route 35 North in Lavallette. I’ll be there from 6-8pm and I’ll be the guy hiding in my shell.
I’m out of here after today and going on vacation although I’m not leaving the area and planning on enjoying the beach while my son leaves for his senior year at Penn State and my daughter gets ready for her sophomore year of high school. Some of my fellow co-workers have been busting me about taking what they perceive as a lot of vacation time but in truth I get the same 3 weeks as most of them do. However I need to use all mine before the start of the high school football season which kicks off in just a little more than three weeks.
I have to throw out a comment on the lawsuit filed by a member of the Rutgers women’s basketball team Tuesday against radio personality Don Imus and CBS. Kia Vaughn filed the suit in New York alleging slander and defamation of character and damage done to her reputation. This comes more than four months after Imus was fired for comments made about the Scarlet Knights in what was a poor attempt at humor. Rutgers officials say they are not connected to the lawsuit, which does not have a dollar amount tied to it. However the suit does claim that Vaughn was humiliated, embarrassed and publicly mocked and the full effect and damage remains to be seen.
To be honest the Rutgers players and program gained much more then they lost over this incident. Claims that the comments took away from their accomplishments are simply not true…as a matter of fact Rutgers got more notoriety for losing the NCAA championship game than Tennessee did for winning it. What’s more the nation got to see first-hand the quality of the women who comprise the team and my guess is that when all is said and done the players and program will emerge the big winners. Ironically the lawsuit was filed on the same day that Imus reached agreement with CBS on his contract and subsequent lawsuit against the network for firing him.
Comment on the passing of Yankee great Phil Rizzuto. As a lifelong Mets fan and Yankee basher I loved the scooter. There was nothing like listening to him broadcast a game, especially when he worked with Bill White & Frank Messer.
How to you humble a 9-time sportscaster of the year? My assignment tonight is to help announce the Hermit Crab races at Salty’s on Route 35 North in Lavallette. I’ll be there from 6-8pm and I’ll be the guy hiding in my shell.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
It's A Hard Knock Life
I’ve done several pieces in the past about things that remind you that you’re getting older…I should say we’re getting older. Part of the theme always centers on how older adults talk about how hard things were when they were growing up, which in truth they were…in some cases. Here’s one I received in which a 30-year old goes on and on about how today’s kids have it so good compared to his childhood.
· When I was a kid we didn’t have the Internet and if we wanted to
know something we had to go to the library and look it up in the
card catalog.
· There was no email! We had to actually write somebody a letter,
with a pen. Then you had to walk across the street and put it in
the mailbox where the person would not get it for a few days.
· There were no MP3’s or Napsters! If you wanted to steal music
you had to go to the record store and shoplift it yourself.
· There was nothing like Call Waiting…if you were on the phone
and somebody else called you they got a busy signal. Plus with
no caller ID when the phone rang you had no idea who was
calling….if could be your school, your mom, boss or ex-girlfriend.
You had to pick up and take your chances.
· There were no SONY Playstation video games with high
Resolution and 3-D graphics. There was Atari 2600 with games like “Space Invaders” and “Asteroids.” Your guy was a little square and you had to use your imagination.
· When you went to the movie theater there was no stadium seating
and if a tall guy or some woman with a hat sat in front of you,
you were screwed.
· Okay there was Cable TV but no 100-plus channels and no on-
screen menu and no remote control. You had to look in TV Guide
to see what was on and forget channel surfing. You actually had to get up to change the channel. There was no Cartoon Network
and you had to wait until Saturday morning for cartoons.
· Plus there were no microwaves and if wanted to heat something
you had to use the oven. And when you wanted popcorn, there
was that stupid Jiffy Pop thing which you had to keep shaking and
half the kernels never got cooked anyway.
You kids today really have it easy…you wouldn’t have lasted 5 minutes back in 1980.
· When I was a kid we didn’t have the Internet and if we wanted to
know something we had to go to the library and look it up in the
card catalog.
· There was no email! We had to actually write somebody a letter,
with a pen. Then you had to walk across the street and put it in
the mailbox where the person would not get it for a few days.
· There were no MP3’s or Napsters! If you wanted to steal music
you had to go to the record store and shoplift it yourself.
· There was nothing like Call Waiting…if you were on the phone
and somebody else called you they got a busy signal. Plus with
no caller ID when the phone rang you had no idea who was
calling….if could be your school, your mom, boss or ex-girlfriend.
You had to pick up and take your chances.
· There were no SONY Playstation video games with high
Resolution and 3-D graphics. There was Atari 2600 with games like “Space Invaders” and “Asteroids.” Your guy was a little square and you had to use your imagination.
· When you went to the movie theater there was no stadium seating
and if a tall guy or some woman with a hat sat in front of you,
you were screwed.
· Okay there was Cable TV but no 100-plus channels and no on-
screen menu and no remote control. You had to look in TV Guide
to see what was on and forget channel surfing. You actually had to get up to change the channel. There was no Cartoon Network
and you had to wait until Saturday morning for cartoons.
· Plus there were no microwaves and if wanted to heat something
you had to use the oven. And when you wanted popcorn, there
was that stupid Jiffy Pop thing which you had to keep shaking and
half the kernels never got cooked anyway.
You kids today really have it easy…you wouldn’t have lasted 5 minutes back in 1980.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Countdown To Labor Day
A little of this and a little of that as the summer really begins to wind down….just three weeks until Labor Day:
Last month a young boy drowned in Monmouth County while swimming in the ocean after lifeguards had left for the day. As that often does it sparked debate about whether beaches should be protected until later in the day. I can’t see where that is the answer and the more I watch people the truth is they will never understand just how dangerous the ocean can be. Visitors and even locals see the water on a hot summer day as the perfect way to cool off…they don’t see rip tides and runs that can move them from waist high to over their heads in a matter of seconds.
“No Reservations” is considered a chick-flick but count me as one guy who thoroughly enjoyed the movie which contains no sex, violence or bad language. It does contain Catherine-Zeta Jones who men can ogle at while women do the same with co-star Aaron Eckhart. Just a good enjoyable film, regardless of what the so-called experts say.
After starting a bit slow former Toms River South and Rutgers University baseball standout Todd Frazier is finding his groove for the Billings (Montana) Mustangs of the Pioneer Rookie League. Frazier has been on a tear of late and has his batting average up to .330 with 4 homers and 15 RBI’s in 27 games with the Cincinnati Reds affiliate. He also had a nice rooting section Sunday with his parents, Charlie & Joan in Billings for a few days. Not only that my sister-in-law and brother-in-law have a ranch in the area and have been going to the games and rooting for Todd, who will head to Instructional League in Florida next month after the Mustangs season concludes on September 7th.
Ex-Toms River East and Brookdale standout Jimmy Principe is playing in the same league and hitting .254 for the Missoula Osprey, an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
I know summer is almost over because kids are getting ready to leave for college….a sure sign that September is just around the corner.
Last month a young boy drowned in Monmouth County while swimming in the ocean after lifeguards had left for the day. As that often does it sparked debate about whether beaches should be protected until later in the day. I can’t see where that is the answer and the more I watch people the truth is they will never understand just how dangerous the ocean can be. Visitors and even locals see the water on a hot summer day as the perfect way to cool off…they don’t see rip tides and runs that can move them from waist high to over their heads in a matter of seconds.
“No Reservations” is considered a chick-flick but count me as one guy who thoroughly enjoyed the movie which contains no sex, violence or bad language. It does contain Catherine-Zeta Jones who men can ogle at while women do the same with co-star Aaron Eckhart. Just a good enjoyable film, regardless of what the so-called experts say.
After starting a bit slow former Toms River South and Rutgers University baseball standout Todd Frazier is finding his groove for the Billings (Montana) Mustangs of the Pioneer Rookie League. Frazier has been on a tear of late and has his batting average up to .330 with 4 homers and 15 RBI’s in 27 games with the Cincinnati Reds affiliate. He also had a nice rooting section Sunday with his parents, Charlie & Joan in Billings for a few days. Not only that my sister-in-law and brother-in-law have a ranch in the area and have been going to the games and rooting for Todd, who will head to Instructional League in Florida next month after the Mustangs season concludes on September 7th.
Ex-Toms River East and Brookdale standout Jimmy Principe is playing in the same league and hitting .254 for the Missoula Osprey, an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
I know summer is almost over because kids are getting ready to leave for college….a sure sign that September is just around the corner.
Friday, August 10, 2007
"The Laramie Project"
I sometimes have to laugh at the bad-luck I often have. Very rarely do I write the Hometown View before coming to work each morning and usually I’m scrambling to finish it in time before its first airing. However Thursday I felt compelled to take time and carefully chose my words for a segment that would have run today on the controversy at Ocean Township High School in Monmouth County where the school principal had cancelled this fall’s production of “The Laramie Project” by the drama club.
I was going to share with you my strong opinions that the show should go on despite the feelings of the principal and superintendent that the subject matter was too controversial, objectionable to some and had the potential to divide the community. For those that don’t know the play is a documentary about the reaction to the 1998 murder of 21-year old Matthew Shepard, who was killed in Laramie, Wyoming by two men simply because he was gay.
I was going to tell you that the play is being used to teach students about prejudice and tolerance in schools across the country and more than ever we need to educate young people about respecting and tolerating our differences. I was also going to mention that those who find the subject matter objectionable don’t have to purchase a ticket and see the play…just like students don’t have to be part of what is an extracurricular activity.
I keep saying how I was going to say these things because at about the same time I was writing this Superintendent of Schools Thomas Pagano made a sudden and dramatic reversal. Not only is “The Laramie Project” back on for three nights in early November, it will be shown to the entire student body and may also be taken on the road to other towns and schools.
Pagano admitted that the reaction to the cancellation of the play was overwhelmingly against the original decision of the high school principal which he supported. Outside pressure was mounting and a school board meeting scheduled for later in the month could have turned into a circus.
Three cheers for Theatre Director Bob Angelini, who fought the decision because “The Laramie Project” is a story that should be told and shared….not censored. I bet you getting a ticket won’t be easy.
I was going to share with you my strong opinions that the show should go on despite the feelings of the principal and superintendent that the subject matter was too controversial, objectionable to some and had the potential to divide the community. For those that don’t know the play is a documentary about the reaction to the 1998 murder of 21-year old Matthew Shepard, who was killed in Laramie, Wyoming by two men simply because he was gay.
I was going to tell you that the play is being used to teach students about prejudice and tolerance in schools across the country and more than ever we need to educate young people about respecting and tolerating our differences. I was also going to mention that those who find the subject matter objectionable don’t have to purchase a ticket and see the play…just like students don’t have to be part of what is an extracurricular activity.
I keep saying how I was going to say these things because at about the same time I was writing this Superintendent of Schools Thomas Pagano made a sudden and dramatic reversal. Not only is “The Laramie Project” back on for three nights in early November, it will be shown to the entire student body and may also be taken on the road to other towns and schools.
Pagano admitted that the reaction to the cancellation of the play was overwhelmingly against the original decision of the high school principal which he supported. Outside pressure was mounting and a school board meeting scheduled for later in the month could have turned into a circus.
Three cheers for Theatre Director Bob Angelini, who fought the decision because “The Laramie Project” is a story that should be told and shared….not censored. I bet you getting a ticket won’t be easy.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Man On A Mission
Brian Dowd is a man on a mission with his goal to educate people about cancer while at the same time helping raise money needed to continue research into a disease that kills our neighbors just about every day. Dowd is one of the lucky ones, a cancer survivor, and after meeting him you come away convinced that the Beachwood resident is truly someone who plans on making a difference.
It was just over 14 months ago that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer
which in itself is an interesting story. His daughter accidentally kicked him in the groin and later that day he noticed a lump which led him to pay a visit to the doctor. A first and second opinion confirmed that the young father indeed had testicular cancer and after surgery and radiation treatments he’s made a complete recovery. He’s also become a father again with his wife Kristy giving birth to another daughter six months ago.
The experience Brian has gone through in the last year or so brought him to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, an organization that inspires and empowers people affected by cancer and is led by the cycling champion and testicular cancer survivor. Dowd attended the inaugural LIVESTRONG Summit last fall in Austin, Texas as a delegate from New Jersey and he came away from that trip with a goal to help inform and educate people in his community about cancer, especially young people.
Brian is captain of Team Down One and will be participating in the LIVESTRONG Challenge in Philadelphia later this month. This fundraiser brings together hundreds of people from the northeast and features run/walk and bicycle events and Brian’s group has set a goal of raising $30,000. To that end they will hold a Dinner and Silent Auction this Saturday from 6-10PM at the Bayville Elks Lodge on Route 9. There will be some great items available, door prizes a DJ, food, fun and also valuable information as well as the Hometown Crew from 92.7 WOBM. Tickets are $30.00 and are available by calling (732) 773-8272 or you can purchase them at the door Saturday. You can also get information by visiting www.teamdownone.com. If you can’t make it Saturday I urge you to consider contacting Brian and making a donation. He will also be happy to share advice and information….like I said he’s a man on a mission with a goal to succeed.
It was just over 14 months ago that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer
which in itself is an interesting story. His daughter accidentally kicked him in the groin and later that day he noticed a lump which led him to pay a visit to the doctor. A first and second opinion confirmed that the young father indeed had testicular cancer and after surgery and radiation treatments he’s made a complete recovery. He’s also become a father again with his wife Kristy giving birth to another daughter six months ago.
The experience Brian has gone through in the last year or so brought him to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, an organization that inspires and empowers people affected by cancer and is led by the cycling champion and testicular cancer survivor. Dowd attended the inaugural LIVESTRONG Summit last fall in Austin, Texas as a delegate from New Jersey and he came away from that trip with a goal to help inform and educate people in his community about cancer, especially young people.
Brian is captain of Team Down One and will be participating in the LIVESTRONG Challenge in Philadelphia later this month. This fundraiser brings together hundreds of people from the northeast and features run/walk and bicycle events and Brian’s group has set a goal of raising $30,000. To that end they will hold a Dinner and Silent Auction this Saturday from 6-10PM at the Bayville Elks Lodge on Route 9. There will be some great items available, door prizes a DJ, food, fun and also valuable information as well as the Hometown Crew from 92.7 WOBM. Tickets are $30.00 and are available by calling (732) 773-8272 or you can purchase them at the door Saturday. You can also get information by visiting www.teamdownone.com. If you can’t make it Saturday I urge you to consider contacting Brian and making a donation. He will also be happy to share advice and information….like I said he’s a man on a mission with a goal to succeed.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Bonds Hits 756
Everyone seems to have an opinion on Barry Bonds, who Tuesday night took ownership of what might be the most significant career record in all of professional sports. Bonds slugged his 756th home run to move past Hank Aaron, who had jumped over Babe Ruth before hitting his final homer 31 summers ago.
While Hammerin’ Hank’s accomplishments were celebrated and applauded Bonds has achieved baseball immortality in a cloud of controversy over his alleged use of performance-enhancing substances. The 43-year old 7-time MVP has put up incredible numbers, most of them coming at a point when skills begin to decline. As his body grew so did speculation that Bonds was being helped by steroids and while there won’t be an asterisk next to his records, they are tainted by the court of public opinion.
Well the Yanks are coming and show no signs of letting up. Now 20-7 since the All-Star break they’ve have moved to within 5 games of first-place Boston in the American League East. It was not all that long ago that the Red Sox owned a 15-game lead in the division.
The Lakewood BlueClaws may be on the road but Saturday FirstEnergy Park will be home to an event with far greater impact than a baseball game. The BlueClaws will partner with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive on Saturday from 7am-2pm. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh over 110 pounds and be in general good health. Blood supplies are low during the summer months in the shore area so people are encouraged to donate. There will be refreshments and giveaways throughout the day and you can make an appointment by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or going to the web site…www.pleasegiveblood.org.
Congratulations to the Lacey Lightning Travel Baseball Team, who recently took part in an “Around the Horn” competition in Cooperstown, New York and took 2nd place among 97 teams from around the country.
Jackson Liberty High School begins football practice today and there is certainly excitement as the program gets ready for its first season of varsity
games. More than 100 golfers took part in a fundraising event for the program Tuesday at Woodlake Country Club and I served as Master of Ceremonies for the dinner. Coach Tim Osborne’s Lions open the season on September 7th at home against Bridgeton and while they won’t have any seniors don’t be surprised if Liberty wins its share of games playing an independent schedule.
While Hammerin’ Hank’s accomplishments were celebrated and applauded Bonds has achieved baseball immortality in a cloud of controversy over his alleged use of performance-enhancing substances. The 43-year old 7-time MVP has put up incredible numbers, most of them coming at a point when skills begin to decline. As his body grew so did speculation that Bonds was being helped by steroids and while there won’t be an asterisk next to his records, they are tainted by the court of public opinion.
Well the Yanks are coming and show no signs of letting up. Now 20-7 since the All-Star break they’ve have moved to within 5 games of first-place Boston in the American League East. It was not all that long ago that the Red Sox owned a 15-game lead in the division.
The Lakewood BlueClaws may be on the road but Saturday FirstEnergy Park will be home to an event with far greater impact than a baseball game. The BlueClaws will partner with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive on Saturday from 7am-2pm. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh over 110 pounds and be in general good health. Blood supplies are low during the summer months in the shore area so people are encouraged to donate. There will be refreshments and giveaways throughout the day and you can make an appointment by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or going to the web site…www.pleasegiveblood.org.
Congratulations to the Lacey Lightning Travel Baseball Team, who recently took part in an “Around the Horn” competition in Cooperstown, New York and took 2nd place among 97 teams from around the country.
Jackson Liberty High School begins football practice today and there is certainly excitement as the program gets ready for its first season of varsity
games. More than 100 golfers took part in a fundraising event for the program Tuesday at Woodlake Country Club and I served as Master of Ceremonies for the dinner. Coach Tim Osborne’s Lions open the season on September 7th at home against Bridgeton and while they won’t have any seniors don’t be surprised if Liberty wins its share of games playing an independent schedule.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Another World Series Championship For Toms River?
Nine years after Toms River East won the Little League World Series another Toms River team might be on the verge of bringing a World Series title back to the area. The Toms River Lightening went a perfect 4-0 in pool play at the Babe Ruth Softball 16-and-under World Series in Eagle Pass, Texas after winning twice on Monday.
The Lightning beat Lodi, California 2-0 in the morning as Keri-Lynn Tricinelli pitched a one-hitter and also drove in a run. Last night Rachel Purporo flirted with a perfect game before settling for a one-hitter in a
7-0 victory over Southern Plains, Colorado. Purporo helped her own cause with a two-run double and Holly Luciano added a two-run triple.
Made up of some of the top young high school players from the area, the Lightning now move into the double elimination phase of the tournament, which will be reduced from ten to six teams. As the top-seed in the National Division they don’t play again until Wednesday night when in all likelihood they will play a team they’ve already beaten. Toms River is the only undefeated team and with a day off they appear to be in great position to win the Babe Ruth title, a year after they also made it to the World Series.
We are certainly in the dog days of summer with plenty of heat and humidity. Many athletes and teams have begun fall sports practice and everyone involved needs to take a common sense approach in conditions like this. Parents need to make sure their children are drinking plenty of water well in advance of heading to the practice field and use good judgment if they think the heat is too much. Coaches, especially those working with young athletes, also need to realize that missing a practice session or two is not going to spoil the upcoming season. If you have doubts whether it’s safe to be on the field it’s certainly better to err on the side of caution.
The Lightning beat Lodi, California 2-0 in the morning as Keri-Lynn Tricinelli pitched a one-hitter and also drove in a run. Last night Rachel Purporo flirted with a perfect game before settling for a one-hitter in a
7-0 victory over Southern Plains, Colorado. Purporo helped her own cause with a two-run double and Holly Luciano added a two-run triple.
Made up of some of the top young high school players from the area, the Lightning now move into the double elimination phase of the tournament, which will be reduced from ten to six teams. As the top-seed in the National Division they don’t play again until Wednesday night when in all likelihood they will play a team they’ve already beaten. Toms River is the only undefeated team and with a day off they appear to be in great position to win the Babe Ruth title, a year after they also made it to the World Series.
We are certainly in the dog days of summer with plenty of heat and humidity. Many athletes and teams have begun fall sports practice and everyone involved needs to take a common sense approach in conditions like this. Parents need to make sure their children are drinking plenty of water well in advance of heading to the practice field and use good judgment if they think the heat is too much. Coaches, especially those working with young athletes, also need to realize that missing a practice session or two is not going to spoil the upcoming season. If you have doubts whether it’s safe to be on the field it’s certainly better to err on the side of caution.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Headin' South
We spent this weekend visiting friends in Chesterfield, Virginia which is about 30 miles from Richmond and a good example of what’s happening in many southern states. They moved into a relatively new development around five years ago and purchased a home for about half of what you would pay in most of Ocean County. While there wasn’t much around them there were big plans for the area and those plans have become a reality.
As people from the northeast kept moving the area continued to grow and they now have shopping malls and centers filled with just about every retail outlet and restaurant you’ve ever heard of. Of course it’s meant changes to the infrastructure of that area and roadways are being expanded to keep up while new schools are opening as well. Just like what happened here in the 70’s and 80’s longtime local residents are not all thrilled with the invaders from the north as they now have to deal with issues like traffic which is quite new to them.
So why are people moving in droves to communities that may not have even been on the map a decade ago? Real estate prices are certainly a big reason
although they are on the rise. Generally the cost of living is less…our friends pay under $2000 in property taxes and auto insurance is less than half of what they were paying in New Jersey. Weather is obviously a factor
with shorter winters and longer summers…although where we were this weekend was 2 ½ hours away from the ocean which my daughter said is way too far.
There is no doubt a southern migration taking place and it’s similar to what’s led to our growth in Ocean County for the last 30-40 years. However instead of people moving from New York and North Jersey to our area they are heading to Virginia, the Carolinas and Florida and they are doing so in large numbers. That’s fine for now but it’s just a matter of time until people in those states seek out areas which are less costly and congested….how does Alaska sound?
As people from the northeast kept moving the area continued to grow and they now have shopping malls and centers filled with just about every retail outlet and restaurant you’ve ever heard of. Of course it’s meant changes to the infrastructure of that area and roadways are being expanded to keep up while new schools are opening as well. Just like what happened here in the 70’s and 80’s longtime local residents are not all thrilled with the invaders from the north as they now have to deal with issues like traffic which is quite new to them.
So why are people moving in droves to communities that may not have even been on the map a decade ago? Real estate prices are certainly a big reason
although they are on the rise. Generally the cost of living is less…our friends pay under $2000 in property taxes and auto insurance is less than half of what they were paying in New Jersey. Weather is obviously a factor
with shorter winters and longer summers…although where we were this weekend was 2 ½ hours away from the ocean which my daughter said is way too far.
There is no doubt a southern migration taking place and it’s similar to what’s led to our growth in Ocean County for the last 30-40 years. However instead of people moving from New York and North Jersey to our area they are heading to Virginia, the Carolinas and Florida and they are doing so in large numbers. That’s fine for now but it’s just a matter of time until people in those states seek out areas which are less costly and congested….how does Alaska sound?
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Thursday This 'n That
Random notes and thoughts to pass along today:
I have to admit to being infatuated with “Shark Week” on the Discovery Channel. It’s pretty much 24/7 stuff on sharks all week long and some of the shows and features are fascinating. What gets me the most are the biologists, scientists and others who are working to not only preserve sharks but also change the public’s image they intentionally attack humans.
Many of them have been bitten and even seriously injured but have returned to the ocean in their study of them.
If you can make sure and try and catch the show on the 1916 shark attacks at the Jersey Shore which started in Beach Haven and moved north to Matawan.
This is truly a good time to be a Rutgers football fan…that is unless you need tickets. The school announced Wednesday there will be no single-game tickets available for public sale to any of the Scarlet Knights eight home games this season. Coming off an 11-2 season and bowl game victory there is now a waiting list of close to 6,000 for season tickets and only those on that list will get to purchase single-game tickets. The Red and White open the season at home on August 30th against Buffalo and tomorrow they begin practice. Rutgers fans are invited to the annual Kickoff Celebration on Sunday from 5-7pm in front of Rutgers Stadium. The free event is open to the public and there will be games and amusements and players will be available to meet fans and sign autographs.
Monmouth University not only won the Northeast Conference Football championship last season but they led the league with a 2.92 grade point average among their football players. 44 Monmouth student-athletes had a 3.0 or better GPA and 16 were named to the Dean’s List. Those numbers are a credit to coach Kevin Callahan, his staff and the entire Hawks program.
Lakewood BlueClaws fans are invited to dress up as their favorite superhero for Saturday night’s game against Kannapolis. The BlueClaws front office staff will dress as their favorites and fans are invited and encouraged to wear capes, masks and costumes and there will even be a contest for the best dressed fan. I would expect General Manager Geoff Brown to come dressed as Superman although some have suggested Mighty Mouse.
I have to admit to being infatuated with “Shark Week” on the Discovery Channel. It’s pretty much 24/7 stuff on sharks all week long and some of the shows and features are fascinating. What gets me the most are the biologists, scientists and others who are working to not only preserve sharks but also change the public’s image they intentionally attack humans.
Many of them have been bitten and even seriously injured but have returned to the ocean in their study of them.
If you can make sure and try and catch the show on the 1916 shark attacks at the Jersey Shore which started in Beach Haven and moved north to Matawan.
This is truly a good time to be a Rutgers football fan…that is unless you need tickets. The school announced Wednesday there will be no single-game tickets available for public sale to any of the Scarlet Knights eight home games this season. Coming off an 11-2 season and bowl game victory there is now a waiting list of close to 6,000 for season tickets and only those on that list will get to purchase single-game tickets. The Red and White open the season at home on August 30th against Buffalo and tomorrow they begin practice. Rutgers fans are invited to the annual Kickoff Celebration on Sunday from 5-7pm in front of Rutgers Stadium. The free event is open to the public and there will be games and amusements and players will be available to meet fans and sign autographs.
Monmouth University not only won the Northeast Conference Football championship last season but they led the league with a 2.92 grade point average among their football players. 44 Monmouth student-athletes had a 3.0 or better GPA and 16 were named to the Dean’s List. Those numbers are a credit to coach Kevin Callahan, his staff and the entire Hawks program.
Lakewood BlueClaws fans are invited to dress up as their favorite superhero for Saturday night’s game against Kannapolis. The BlueClaws front office staff will dress as their favorites and fans are invited and encouraged to wear capes, masks and costumes and there will even be a contest for the best dressed fan. I would expect General Manager Geoff Brown to come dressed as Superman although some have suggested Mighty Mouse.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Traveling Tips
With the school year only about a month away many of us will be taking vacations in August, which is one of the biggest travel months of the year. A lot of people will be taking to the road via car, SUV, van and even RV. With that in mind I’m passing along some advice from professional truck drivers on how to best travel the highways, deal with traffic and even cut down on your gas costs.
· Always inspect your vehicle before leaving on a trip. Check your
tires, wipers and fluids and have your radiator and cooling system
serviced and your oil changed if needed.
· Leave early so you won’t be in a panic about arriving late and
expect delays for a variety of reasons. Know your limitations
and don’t drive when you’re tired or not feeling well.
· When sharing the road with large trucks be aware of their blind
spots. If you can’t see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then
they can’t see you.
· Expect the unexpected and look about a quarter-mile ahead for a
safe path. Always leave yourself an “out.”
· Pull off the road to use your cell phone in a designated parking area.
· Signal ahead of time when you’re looking to change lanes. If a
truck is changing lanes give it the space to do so as it is often trying
to avoid another vehicle.
· Remember that trucks are larger and heavier and take longer to
come to a complete stop so don’t cut quickly in front of them.
· On entrance ramps remember that highway traffic has the right of
way. Maintain proper speed and smoothly merge into traffic.
· Understand that big trucks can’t always stop to assist you but will
likely use their radios to contact police if they see you’re in trouble.
· To save fuel, take direct routes, minimize side trips and keep a
steady speed. Of course if your car is tuned up and the tires are
properly inflated that will also help.
Happy Traveling!
· Always inspect your vehicle before leaving on a trip. Check your
tires, wipers and fluids and have your radiator and cooling system
serviced and your oil changed if needed.
· Leave early so you won’t be in a panic about arriving late and
expect delays for a variety of reasons. Know your limitations
and don’t drive when you’re tired or not feeling well.
· When sharing the road with large trucks be aware of their blind
spots. If you can’t see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then
they can’t see you.
· Expect the unexpected and look about a quarter-mile ahead for a
safe path. Always leave yourself an “out.”
· Pull off the road to use your cell phone in a designated parking area.
· Signal ahead of time when you’re looking to change lanes. If a
truck is changing lanes give it the space to do so as it is often trying
to avoid another vehicle.
· Remember that trucks are larger and heavier and take longer to
come to a complete stop so don’t cut quickly in front of them.
· On entrance ramps remember that highway traffic has the right of
way. Maintain proper speed and smoothly merge into traffic.
· Understand that big trucks can’t always stop to assist you but will
likely use their radios to contact police if they see you’re in trouble.
· To save fuel, take direct routes, minimize side trips and keep a
steady speed. Of course if your car is tuned up and the tires are
properly inflated that will also help.
Happy Traveling!
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