There’s a pretty good chance you have already heard by now what took place earlier this month in a basketball game between two Mid Western high schools. If you did not you are about to learn about a true example of sportsmanship not the often forced kind which lacks sincerity and feeling.
Milwaukee Madison of Wisconsin and DeKalb of Illinois have built a nice out of state rivalry in which after the game the teams share a pizza dinner. On the day the teams were to play the mother of Madison senior co-captain Johntell Franklin died and at the hospital his coach suggested the team forfeit the game. Franklin said “no” he wanted the game to go on as scheduled so while his teammates left he remained at the hospital to say his final goodbyes to his 38-year old mother.
Early in the second quarter of a close game who should show up but Johntell Franklin. The gym erupted as fans and both teams cheered the sudden arrival and many left the court and stands to welcome the distraught teenager who was moved to tears. After order was restored Franklin told his coach he wanted to play and Aaron Womack put him in the game even though he knew it would result in a technical foul and two free throws for the other team. That’s because the lineup has to be entered in the book before the game and who thought Franklin would show up…never mind play. However DeKalb coach Dave Rohlman and his team did not want the free throws…they wanted the referees to let this one slide by but after a discussion they insisted the rule had to be enforced. Rohlman then gathered his team and clearly sent the message that you know what has to be done. So junior Darius McNeal volunteered to take the free throws and went to the line where he intentionally missed both….sort of just throwing them a few feet. Remember this was a 2-point game at the time and McNeal, the visiting player, received a standing ovation from the crowd. Turns out the two points would not have mattered because DeKalb ended up losing by 15. That was not the point and McNeal said afterwards “I did it for the guy who lost his mom; it was the right thing to do.” Franklin by the way scored 10 points in the victory.
Womack, his coach was so impressed by the act of sportsmanship that he wrote a letter to the editor in which he said that if he could not coach is own son in the future he would move to DeKalb and let him learn from Coach Rohlman. DeKalb is even collecting donations at their home game tonight to help Franklin and his family and they will be honored for their actions by the Milwaukee Bucks over the weekend.
Some people just talk sportsmanship but in this case athletes learned it and experienced it first hand. You can be sure they and everyone else at that game will never forget an act of kindness and compassion.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Compassion On The Court
There’s a pretty good chance you have already heard by now what took place earlier this month in a basketball game between two Mid Western high schools. If you did not you are about to learn about a true example of sportsmanship not the often forced kind which lacks sincerity and feeling.
Milwaukee Madison of Wisconsin and DeKalb of Illinois have built a nice out of state rivalry in which after the game the teams share a pizza dinner. On the day the teams were to play the mother of Madison senior co-captain Johntell Franklin died and at the hospital his coach suggested the team forfeit the game. Franklin said “no” he wanted the game to go on as scheduled so while his teammates left he remained at the hospital to say his final goodbyes to his 38-year old mother.
Early in the second quarter of a close game who should show up but Johntell Franklin. The gym erupted as fans and both teams cheered the sudden arrival and many left the court and stands to welcome the distraught teenager who was moved to tears. After order was restored Franklin told his coach he wanted to play and Aaron Womack put him in the game even though he knew it would result in a technical foul and two free throws for the other team. That’s because the lineup has to be entered in the book before the game and who thought Franklin would show up…never mind play. However DeKalb coach Dave Rohlman and his team did not want the free throws…they wanted the referees to let this one slide by but after a discussion they insisted the rule had to be enforced. Rohlman then gathered his team and clearly sent the message that you know what has to be done. So junior Darius McNeal volunteered to take the free throws and went to the line where he intentionally missed both….sort of just throwing them a few feet. Remember this was a 2-point game at the time and McNeal, the visiting player, received a standing ovation from the crowd. Turns out the two points would not have mattered because DeKalb ended up losing by 15. That was not the point and McNeal said afterwards “I did it for the guy who lost his mom; it was the right thing to do.” Franklin by the way scored 10 points in the victory.
Womack, his coach was so impressed by the act of sportsmanship that he wrote a letter to the editor in which he said that if he could not coach is own son in the future he would move to DeKalb and let him learn from Coach Rohlman. DeKalb is even collecting donations at their home game tonight to help Franklin and his family and they will be honored for their actions by the Milwaukee Bucks over the weekend.
Some people just talk sportsmanship but in this case athletes learned it and experienced it first hand. You can be sure they and everyone else at that game will never forget an act of kindness and compassion.
Milwaukee Madison of Wisconsin and DeKalb of Illinois have built a nice out of state rivalry in which after the game the teams share a pizza dinner. On the day the teams were to play the mother of Madison senior co-captain Johntell Franklin died and at the hospital his coach suggested the team forfeit the game. Franklin said “no” he wanted the game to go on as scheduled so while his teammates left he remained at the hospital to say his final goodbyes to his 38-year old mother.
Early in the second quarter of a close game who should show up but Johntell Franklin. The gym erupted as fans and both teams cheered the sudden arrival and many left the court and stands to welcome the distraught teenager who was moved to tears. After order was restored Franklin told his coach he wanted to play and Aaron Womack put him in the game even though he knew it would result in a technical foul and two free throws for the other team. That’s because the lineup has to be entered in the book before the game and who thought Franklin would show up…never mind play. However DeKalb coach Dave Rohlman and his team did not want the free throws…they wanted the referees to let this one slide by but after a discussion they insisted the rule had to be enforced. Rohlman then gathered his team and clearly sent the message that you know what has to be done. So junior Darius McNeal volunteered to take the free throws and went to the line where he intentionally missed both….sort of just throwing them a few feet. Remember this was a 2-point game at the time and McNeal, the visiting player, received a standing ovation from the crowd. Turns out the two points would not have mattered because DeKalb ended up losing by 15. That was not the point and McNeal said afterwards “I did it for the guy who lost his mom; it was the right thing to do.” Franklin by the way scored 10 points in the victory.
Womack, his coach was so impressed by the act of sportsmanship that he wrote a letter to the editor in which he said that if he could not coach is own son in the future he would move to DeKalb and let him learn from Coach Rohlman. DeKalb is even collecting donations at their home game tonight to help Franklin and his family and they will be honored for their actions by the Milwaukee Bucks over the weekend.
Some people just talk sportsmanship but in this case athletes learned it and experienced it first hand. You can be sure they and everyone else at that game will never forget an act of kindness and compassion.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Kevin Joins Facebook
Facebook is a social networking website that was launched five years ago by a then Harvard University student and quickly caught on with colleges around the country. It was a way for students and friends to stay in touch and it spread to high schools and eventually anyone over the age of 13. It’s believed that more than 175 million people use Facebook and I just discovered it within the last two weeks at the recommendation of a consultant for our radio group.
The website is free and you usually join networks based on where you went to high school and or college where you work and live and others. While I was certainly aware of Facebook because of my children I had no idea what I was getting into when I registered. I started by just putting up some brief information about myself and later added a picture and some more details and all of a sudden I heard from people I have not had contact with for more than 30 years. How far you want to go with this is up to each individual and frankly I don’t completely get this entire thing yet. I still haven’t figured out the need for people to tell others that they are going food shopping or taking a walk but to each his own. What I’ve been able to do is meet up with old friends and catch up on what you’ve missed for decades and it’s just a pretty neat way to network. There are restrictions you can put on your involvement and while there’s always security concerns it seems to be fairly harmless although I am very happy Facebook did not exist during my young and stupid days. I can only imagine the pictures that could have made their way onto the site for too many to see.
What is especially interesting is because I’m new subscriber each day brings new contacts who come into your life. Some are those you want to network with while others you may choose to ignore. Regardless I have to admit that I’m hooked and I’ll look forward to seeing some of you on Facebook.
The website is free and you usually join networks based on where you went to high school and or college where you work and live and others. While I was certainly aware of Facebook because of my children I had no idea what I was getting into when I registered. I started by just putting up some brief information about myself and later added a picture and some more details and all of a sudden I heard from people I have not had contact with for more than 30 years. How far you want to go with this is up to each individual and frankly I don’t completely get this entire thing yet. I still haven’t figured out the need for people to tell others that they are going food shopping or taking a walk but to each his own. What I’ve been able to do is meet up with old friends and catch up on what you’ve missed for decades and it’s just a pretty neat way to network. There are restrictions you can put on your involvement and while there’s always security concerns it seems to be fairly harmless although I am very happy Facebook did not exist during my young and stupid days. I can only imagine the pictures that could have made their way onto the site for too many to see.
What is especially interesting is because I’m new subscriber each day brings new contacts who come into your life. Some are those you want to network with while others you may choose to ignore. Regardless I have to admit that I’m hooked and I’ll look forward to seeing some of you on Facebook.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Ocean County Fundraising Events
(There was no Hometown View on Tuesday, 2/24/09)
The 4th Annual Phil Citta Memorial Fundraiser at the Office Lounge & Restaurant last week was the most successful one yet and resulted in a $21,000 donation for cancer research at Community Medical Center. The all-day event in the name of the former Office Lounge owner has become an annual fundraiser with money coming from restaurant profits, tee shirt sales, auctions and more. Citta died in 2004 from pancreatic cancer and his family’s commitment to fighting the war against the disease led to the establishment of the J. Phillip Citta Regional Cancer Center at Community Medical Center. The four Office Lounge events have raised over $70,000 and next year’s is scheduled for February 17th which just happens to be Phil’s birthday.
This Friday the Ocean County Sherriff’s Department, PBA Local #379 Civic Association will sponsor a fundraiser at the Beachcomber Restaurant in Seaside Heights to help the family of 14-year old Connor Ryan whose father is a Lieutenant with the Department. Connor was diagnosed at birth with a genetic disorder that causes tubers and tumors to grown in his brain, heart and other major organs and results in him suffering some 5-15 seizures each day. He has undergone several surgeries and while there is no cure for the disease the family continues to seek the best possible treatment and they have incurred a large amount of debt. Friday’s event from 5-10pm will feature fun, food, drinks, raffles, auctions and more. Those interested in supporting Friday’s fundraiser or wanting to make a donation to the Ryan Family can contact Detective Scott Frey at (732) 600-8102.
The freshman class at Toms River High School South will sponsor a benefit basketball game tonight at Toms River Intermediate South featuring the zany antics of the Harlem Superstars. Their opponents will be what’s called a “South Dream Team” and the game tips off tonight at 7pm. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00.
Also tonight is the semifinals of the Shore Conference Boys Basketball Tournament at the Ritacco Center. CBA faces Freehold in the 6pm opening followed by Neptune and Monmouth Regional. Both games will be broadcast on our Shore Sports Network, including 1160 WOBM AM.
The 4th Annual Phil Citta Memorial Fundraiser at the Office Lounge & Restaurant last week was the most successful one yet and resulted in a $21,000 donation for cancer research at Community Medical Center. The all-day event in the name of the former Office Lounge owner has become an annual fundraiser with money coming from restaurant profits, tee shirt sales, auctions and more. Citta died in 2004 from pancreatic cancer and his family’s commitment to fighting the war against the disease led to the establishment of the J. Phillip Citta Regional Cancer Center at Community Medical Center. The four Office Lounge events have raised over $70,000 and next year’s is scheduled for February 17th which just happens to be Phil’s birthday.
This Friday the Ocean County Sherriff’s Department, PBA Local #379 Civic Association will sponsor a fundraiser at the Beachcomber Restaurant in Seaside Heights to help the family of 14-year old Connor Ryan whose father is a Lieutenant with the Department. Connor was diagnosed at birth with a genetic disorder that causes tubers and tumors to grown in his brain, heart and other major organs and results in him suffering some 5-15 seizures each day. He has undergone several surgeries and while there is no cure for the disease the family continues to seek the best possible treatment and they have incurred a large amount of debt. Friday’s event from 5-10pm will feature fun, food, drinks, raffles, auctions and more. Those interested in supporting Friday’s fundraiser or wanting to make a donation to the Ryan Family can contact Detective Scott Frey at (732) 600-8102.
The freshman class at Toms River High School South will sponsor a benefit basketball game tonight at Toms River Intermediate South featuring the zany antics of the Harlem Superstars. Their opponents will be what’s called a “South Dream Team” and the game tips off tonight at 7pm. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00.
Also tonight is the semifinals of the Shore Conference Boys Basketball Tournament at the Ritacco Center. CBA faces Freehold in the 6pm opening followed by Neptune and Monmouth Regional. Both games will be broadcast on our Shore Sports Network, including 1160 WOBM AM.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Slumdog Millionaire Wins 8 Oscars
I will pay the price today for staying up until midnight and watching the Academy Awards Sunday night and I honestly can’t explain why I find myself glued to this show each year. I’m certainly not into the celebrity thing, could care less about the fashion angle and find the motion picture industry filled with more than their share of self-righteous egomaniacs who have been put on too big a pedestal. With that said I like many of you have my favorites and like to see if those movies and actors are rewarded for their efforts. It’s obviously important to win and I really don’t buy into that “I’m just happy to be nominated” garbage because winning an Oscar stays with you for the rest of your life and beyond. In death those that have won a statue or two are always identified as Academy Award winners as they don’t write in an obituary that you were nominated once. It’s kind of like being elected to the Hall of Fame in baseball or football as you are forever known as Hall of Famer which carries with it a certain stature that goes far beyond being al All-Star or the like.
Movie stars often seem larger than life but when they are on that stage clutching that first-ever Oscar they are as close to everyday people as they might ever be again. They may make their living from acting but when their name is announced as a winner their emotions sometimes get the best of them as they realize a dream they’ve had for years has been fulfilled. At that moment you can almost relate to what they are feeling and frankly it doesn’t matter if they make millions for a film or live in a mansion overlooking the beach.
To me last night’s highlight was the success of the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” which my wife and I both loved. The film sort of came out of nowhere to be one of the feel good stories of the year and there must have been about 50 members of the cast and crew in attendance enjoying every single moment of the evening as they kept raking in Oscars, including the big one for Best Picture. The movie itself was about overcoming odds and believing in your dreams and Hollywood, for all its faults, does deliver us some great stories which we need now more than ever.
Movie stars often seem larger than life but when they are on that stage clutching that first-ever Oscar they are as close to everyday people as they might ever be again. They may make their living from acting but when their name is announced as a winner their emotions sometimes get the best of them as they realize a dream they’ve had for years has been fulfilled. At that moment you can almost relate to what they are feeling and frankly it doesn’t matter if they make millions for a film or live in a mansion overlooking the beach.
To me last night’s highlight was the success of the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” which my wife and I both loved. The film sort of came out of nowhere to be one of the feel good stories of the year and there must have been about 50 members of the cast and crew in attendance enjoying every single moment of the evening as they kept raking in Oscars, including the big one for Best Picture. The movie itself was about overcoming odds and believing in your dreams and Hollywood, for all its faults, does deliver us some great stories which we need now more than ever.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Big Sports Weekend On The Shore
It’s a big weekend for basketball and wrestling around the shore:
The District Wrestling Championships begin tonight with most of the Ocean County schools gathering at Toms River East, the site of District 24.
Southern Regional is aiming for it’s 8th consecutive team title and among the top individuals on display will be the Rams Glenn Carson and defending state champions Vinnie DelleFave of Toms River East and Jimmy Lawson of Manchester.
Long Branch and Brick Memorial both won NJSIAA Group Championships last weekend and now they will compete for the District 23 team title at the home of the Green Wave. The Mustangs are the three-time defending District champions but rate the role of the underdog this time around.
Jackson Memorial looks to continue its dominance in District 21 at Manalapan High School. The Jaguars have won the team championship 11 straight years. This is the first step on the road to Atlantic City for the best wrestlers in New Jersey.
The Shore Conference Basketball Tournament will be down to just four teams after this weekend. The Boys Round of 16 is tonight and among the pairings, Brick Memorial will host Keyport, Point Boro is at Asbury Park, Toms River East visits Neptune and Lakewood travels to Monmouth Regional. Top-seeded CBA hosts Colts Neck. Tonight’s winners move into the quarterfinals on Sunday at Brookdale Community College.
The Girls have reached the quarterfinal round where Manchester will now face top-seeded St. John Vianney tomorrow at Brookdale. Other matchups have Southern facing Rumson, Colts Neck meeting St. Rose and Middletown South playing Neptune.
The semifinals and finals for both the Boys & Girls will be next week at the Ritacco Center and all those games will be broadcast on the Shore Sports Network, including 1160 WOBM AM.
The District Wrestling Championships begin tonight with most of the Ocean County schools gathering at Toms River East, the site of District 24.
Southern Regional is aiming for it’s 8th consecutive team title and among the top individuals on display will be the Rams Glenn Carson and defending state champions Vinnie DelleFave of Toms River East and Jimmy Lawson of Manchester.
Long Branch and Brick Memorial both won NJSIAA Group Championships last weekend and now they will compete for the District 23 team title at the home of the Green Wave. The Mustangs are the three-time defending District champions but rate the role of the underdog this time around.
Jackson Memorial looks to continue its dominance in District 21 at Manalapan High School. The Jaguars have won the team championship 11 straight years. This is the first step on the road to Atlantic City for the best wrestlers in New Jersey.
The Shore Conference Basketball Tournament will be down to just four teams after this weekend. The Boys Round of 16 is tonight and among the pairings, Brick Memorial will host Keyport, Point Boro is at Asbury Park, Toms River East visits Neptune and Lakewood travels to Monmouth Regional. Top-seeded CBA hosts Colts Neck. Tonight’s winners move into the quarterfinals on Sunday at Brookdale Community College.
The Girls have reached the quarterfinal round where Manchester will now face top-seeded St. John Vianney tomorrow at Brookdale. Other matchups have Southern facing Rumson, Colts Neck meeting St. Rose and Middletown South playing Neptune.
The semifinals and finals for both the Boys & Girls will be next week at the Ritacco Center and all those games will be broadcast on the Shore Sports Network, including 1160 WOBM AM.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Home Runs For Heroes
There is nothing like the excitement of going to a baseball game and watching your team hit a home run and this season there will be an added reason to root for the long ball at FirstEnergy Park, home of the Lakewood BlueClaws. That’s because the BlueClaws and the OceanFirst Foundation
have announced plans to team up on a program called “Home Runs for Heroes” which will help military-based charities.
Throughout the 2009 season each time a BlueClaws player hits a home run during a home game at FirstEnergy Park the OceanFirst Foundation will donate $1000 to a charity that provides emergency financial help to local soldiers, active and retired and their dependents. Charities that are interested in being consider for this program must agree to use all the donations to provide support to veterans and members of the military and their families that live within the service area of OceanFirst, which is Ocean and Monmouth counties. The grants must be used for basic emergency needs.
The plan is to select 9 charities and match them with a particular position in the BlueClaws lineup. Each time a player hits a home run at FirstEnergy Park, the charity tied in with that position gets a $1000 donation from the OceanFirst Foundation. Charities that want to apply for consideration must do so by Saturday, February 28th. You can call the BlueClaws at (732) 901-7000 and they will direct you to the website for this program application.
The OceanFirst Foundation was established in 1996 and has contributed approximately $20 million to over 600 local charities in their service area.
The priorities of the foundation are Housing, Health and Wellness, Improving the Quality of Life and Youth Development. Last year alone they donated more than $1.6 million to community projects.
Executive Director Kathy Durante said they are “proud to partner with the BlueClaws and provide much needed support to organizations that help local soldiers and their families overcome financial and other unique challenges due to their service or deployment.”
“Home Runs for Heroes” sounds like a grand slam and it will make attending a game this season even more exciting.
have announced plans to team up on a program called “Home Runs for Heroes” which will help military-based charities.
Throughout the 2009 season each time a BlueClaws player hits a home run during a home game at FirstEnergy Park the OceanFirst Foundation will donate $1000 to a charity that provides emergency financial help to local soldiers, active and retired and their dependents. Charities that are interested in being consider for this program must agree to use all the donations to provide support to veterans and members of the military and their families that live within the service area of OceanFirst, which is Ocean and Monmouth counties. The grants must be used for basic emergency needs.
The plan is to select 9 charities and match them with a particular position in the BlueClaws lineup. Each time a player hits a home run at FirstEnergy Park, the charity tied in with that position gets a $1000 donation from the OceanFirst Foundation. Charities that want to apply for consideration must do so by Saturday, February 28th. You can call the BlueClaws at (732) 901-7000 and they will direct you to the website for this program application.
The OceanFirst Foundation was established in 1996 and has contributed approximately $20 million to over 600 local charities in their service area.
The priorities of the foundation are Housing, Health and Wellness, Improving the Quality of Life and Youth Development. Last year alone they donated more than $1.6 million to community projects.
Executive Director Kathy Durante said they are “proud to partner with the BlueClaws and provide much needed support to organizations that help local soldiers and their families overcome financial and other unique challenges due to their service or deployment.”
“Home Runs for Heroes” sounds like a grand slam and it will make attending a game this season even more exciting.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Rememberin J. Phillip Citta
Since he died in 2004 there has never been a time when I walked into the Office Restaurant & Lounge in Toms River that I did not think of Phil Citta. He was not just the owner of the popular bar and restaurant but the heart and soul of the place and you would usually find Phil greeting you upon arrival. Even on a cold day in the middle of January he usually had on one of those bright Hawaiian print shirts that reminded you of summer not winter at the shore…plus who can forget those wacky costumes he used to wear at Halloween? Phil Citta loved the Office Lounge and you just never expected there would be a time when he would not be there.
But that time came much too soon when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He tried just about everything before losing the battle five years ago
but in his death the fight continues to win the war. The Citta Family donated $1 million in his name to Community Medical Center which led to the dedication of the J. Phillip Citta Regional Cancer Center in 2005. Affiliated with the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, the 20,000 square-foot facility offers state-of-the-art radiation oncology, infusion services and educational and support services to patients and their families.
I mention all of this because today the Office Lounge will hold their 4th annual fundraiser for the benefit of cancer research at Community Medical Center. During the all-day, all-night benefit 50% of profits will be donated plus all the proceeds from special tee-shirt sales as wells auctions that will go on throughout the day. The first three Phil Citta Memorial Fundraisers raised about $50,000 and officials are hoping that today’s event adds significantly to that.
If you would like to help and you cannot make it to the Office Lounge today at the intersection of Route 37 and Main Street you can call in a personal donation to the Community Medical Center Foundation at (732)
557-8131,
But that time came much too soon when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He tried just about everything before losing the battle five years ago
but in his death the fight continues to win the war. The Citta Family donated $1 million in his name to Community Medical Center which led to the dedication of the J. Phillip Citta Regional Cancer Center in 2005. Affiliated with the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, the 20,000 square-foot facility offers state-of-the-art radiation oncology, infusion services and educational and support services to patients and their families.
I mention all of this because today the Office Lounge will hold their 4th annual fundraiser for the benefit of cancer research at Community Medical Center. During the all-day, all-night benefit 50% of profits will be donated plus all the proceeds from special tee-shirt sales as wells auctions that will go on throughout the day. The first three Phil Citta Memorial Fundraisers raised about $50,000 and officials are hoping that today’s event adds significantly to that.
If you would like to help and you cannot make it to the Office Lounge today at the intersection of Route 37 and Main Street you can call in a personal donation to the Community Medical Center Foundation at (732)
557-8131,
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
NJSIAA Wrestling Champs
For Brick Memorial it was mostly unexpected and thorough joy while for Long Branch it was expected and in some ways a thorough relief. Both schools won NJSIAA Group Wrestling Championships Sunday on a day when thousands of fans came through the doors of the Ritacco Center to watch the best teams in the state which included the Mustangs and Green Wave along with Southern and Brick.
Memorial’s 7th state title and second straight Group 4 crown came via wins over North Hunterdon in the semifinals and then rival Southern in the final.
It was a bitter defeat for the Rams who had beaten Memorial just three weeks earlier and most expected a repeat on Sunday. However Southern has now lost in the Group 4 Finals the last four years including back-to-back defeats at the hands of Brick Memorial and coach Dan O’Cone.
Long Branch had never won a state group title before last February and when this season started the Green Wave found the bar had been raised. Not only were they expected to repeat as Group 2 champions but many predicted they would finish as the #1 team in the state. That’s quite a bit of pressure on a team and especially its head coach Danny George but they did not disappoint. Long Branch beat Parsippany and then a very good David Brearley team to put in its claim as the best team in all of New Jersey and around the shore they certainly won’t find many arguments.
What Sunday did show once again is that wrestling is alive and very much kicking especially in Ocean and Monmouth counties.
Speaking of shore dominance how about the job done at Monday’s NJSIAA Girls Bowling Championships in North Brunswick. Toms River East, Brick, Manchester and Keyport claimed the four group titles making it a clean sweep for teams from the Shore Conference. It was an even bigger story though for Manchester as they went on to claim the Tournament of Champions by later defeating first Brick and then Keyport. Sophomore Amanda DeMauro sparked the Hawks championship effort.
Memorial’s 7th state title and second straight Group 4 crown came via wins over North Hunterdon in the semifinals and then rival Southern in the final.
It was a bitter defeat for the Rams who had beaten Memorial just three weeks earlier and most expected a repeat on Sunday. However Southern has now lost in the Group 4 Finals the last four years including back-to-back defeats at the hands of Brick Memorial and coach Dan O’Cone.
Long Branch had never won a state group title before last February and when this season started the Green Wave found the bar had been raised. Not only were they expected to repeat as Group 2 champions but many predicted they would finish as the #1 team in the state. That’s quite a bit of pressure on a team and especially its head coach Danny George but they did not disappoint. Long Branch beat Parsippany and then a very good David Brearley team to put in its claim as the best team in all of New Jersey and around the shore they certainly won’t find many arguments.
What Sunday did show once again is that wrestling is alive and very much kicking especially in Ocean and Monmouth counties.
Speaking of shore dominance how about the job done at Monday’s NJSIAA Girls Bowling Championships in North Brunswick. Toms River East, Brick, Manchester and Keyport claimed the four group titles making it a clean sweep for teams from the Shore Conference. It was an even bigger story though for Manchester as they went on to claim the Tournament of Champions by later defeating first Brick and then Keyport. Sophomore Amanda DeMauro sparked the Hawks championship effort.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Valentine's Day
Not that you need reminding but tomorrow is Valentine’s Day which in my opinion is just a terrible day for too many reasons. It’s a day often filled with too much pressure to come up with the right gift and what about those who are alone when it comes to love…what a horrible reminder of what they don’t have. It seemed like there was a time when it was somewhat of a cute holiday that has now taken on a life of its own.,…I mean the hype for it started the day after Christmas.
If you really think about it Valentine’s Day is one that’s been promoted endlessly by those who figure to gain the most… from Hallmark cards to florists, jewelers, restaurants and others. Even in a bad economy we are expected to spend $14.7 billion this year…that’s an average of $102.50 from each US consumer. Leading the way are married people with children who will spend about $67 on their spouse. The remainder goes to gifts for kids, friends, co-workers and even pets.
58% of us will send at least one greeting card and it’s the biggest holiday for that industry outside of Christmas with 190 million cards being sent and that does not include all the ones schoolchildren will exchange.
Nearly 46% of us will give candy with most of that being sales of chocolate, which has been associated with romance since the 15th century. Of course don’t forget those little, chalky hearts with messages like “Kiss Me” and “Be Mine.” 8 million of those suckers will be made this year.
Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day are the biggest holidays of the year for giving flowers and about 110 million roses, mostly red, will be sold and delivered within a 3-day time period this weekend. 73% of those buying flowers are men.
By the way, a common misconception is that THE Valentine’s Day massacre took place in Chicago in 1929. That might be the most celebrated but it actually takes place every year featuring men who forget to observe the holiday.
If you really think about it Valentine’s Day is one that’s been promoted endlessly by those who figure to gain the most… from Hallmark cards to florists, jewelers, restaurants and others. Even in a bad economy we are expected to spend $14.7 billion this year…that’s an average of $102.50 from each US consumer. Leading the way are married people with children who will spend about $67 on their spouse. The remainder goes to gifts for kids, friends, co-workers and even pets.
58% of us will send at least one greeting card and it’s the biggest holiday for that industry outside of Christmas with 190 million cards being sent and that does not include all the ones schoolchildren will exchange.
Nearly 46% of us will give candy with most of that being sales of chocolate, which has been associated with romance since the 15th century. Of course don’t forget those little, chalky hearts with messages like “Kiss Me” and “Be Mine.” 8 million of those suckers will be made this year.
Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day are the biggest holidays of the year for giving flowers and about 110 million roses, mostly red, will be sold and delivered within a 3-day time period this weekend. 73% of those buying flowers are men.
By the way, a common misconception is that THE Valentine’s Day massacre took place in Chicago in 1929. That might be the most celebrated but it actually takes place every year featuring men who forget to observe the holiday.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Joba Wanna Be
Most of us have probably imagined what it must be like to be famous…well let me re-phrase that. Most of you have given this a thought because obviously with 30 years on the radio I know first hand what it’s like to be famous. Come on…have a sense of humor here as I say this with tongue-in-cheek. But really whether it was imagining you were a sports star as a kid
or a well known singer later we have probably all fantasized about what it must be like to be recognized everywhere you go. It’s pretty harmless unless that is you take it to the extreme of say Ryan A. Ward.
The 30-year old Toms River resident just happens to look very much like New York Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain and he took advantage of that last summer. It’s one thing to have people tell you that you resemble someone famous but in Ward’s case he told others that he was Chamberlain.
He signed autographs, accepted a couple of free meals and drinks at local places and even got a date or two out of it. But all good things must come to an end and they did last August when on two occasions he was hit with warrants…the second of which landed Ward in jail for a day and a half.
That came after someone who thought they had an autograph of the Yankees pitcher took it to a sports memorabilia store and learned it was a fake.
The gig is now officially up as Wednesday in Belmar Municipal Court the not-so-famous Ward pled guilty to three counts of disorderly conduct. The judge fined him $2500 and sentenced him to two years probation where he will continue with an alcohol treatment program he has already started. He also has to stay out of the bars and restaurants where he duped people for two years and maybe the toughest part is he has to live and act 24/7 like Ryan A. Ward and not Joba Chamberlain. In the end nobody got hurt all that bad but can you imagine what it would have been like if Ward was the spitting image of Alex Rodriguez?
or a well known singer later we have probably all fantasized about what it must be like to be recognized everywhere you go. It’s pretty harmless unless that is you take it to the extreme of say Ryan A. Ward.
The 30-year old Toms River resident just happens to look very much like New York Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain and he took advantage of that last summer. It’s one thing to have people tell you that you resemble someone famous but in Ward’s case he told others that he was Chamberlain.
He signed autographs, accepted a couple of free meals and drinks at local places and even got a date or two out of it. But all good things must come to an end and they did last August when on two occasions he was hit with warrants…the second of which landed Ward in jail for a day and a half.
That came after someone who thought they had an autograph of the Yankees pitcher took it to a sports memorabilia store and learned it was a fake.
The gig is now officially up as Wednesday in Belmar Municipal Court the not-so-famous Ward pled guilty to three counts of disorderly conduct. The judge fined him $2500 and sentenced him to two years probation where he will continue with an alcohol treatment program he has already started. He also has to stay out of the bars and restaurants where he duped people for two years and maybe the toughest part is he has to live and act 24/7 like Ryan A. Ward and not Joba Chamberlain. In the end nobody got hurt all that bad but can you imagine what it would have been like if Ward was the spitting image of Alex Rodriguez?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
American Cancer Society Casino Night
The Jersey Shore Region of the American Cancer Society will host a Casino Night on Friday, March 27th as part of their Tides of Change gala at Eagle Ridge Golf Club in Lakewood. The event will honor three individuals and a local company for the impact they have had in the fight against cancer in our area and someone who certainly fits that description is Tim Ryan of Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals. He will be saluted as “Humanitarian of the Year” which is an appropriate honor for a businessman who has supported many organizations and causes and truly understands what its like to give back. Lacey Township Mayor Dave Most and Tom Hayes of New Jersey Natural Gas are being honored as “Volunteers of the Year” and the accounting and consulting firm of Cowan Gunteski & Company have been named “Corporate Visionary.”
The evening will celebrate their contributions to the community and commitment to the cause and mission of the American Cancer Society and proceeds from the evening will help local programs as well as research on a national basis. For information on the Casino Night, including tickets and advertising you can call (732) 818-3517.
Belated congratulations to the girl’s basketball teams from Jackson Memorial and Southern Regional as they will share the Class A South Divisional Championship. The Rams Kathy Snyder is the dean of shore conference coaches as this is her 30th season behind the Southern bench. Rachel Goodale is in her 8th season with the Jaguars and with a young team look for Jackson to be a real force again next winter. Both teams hope to make their mark in the Shore Conference and NJSIAA Tournaments.
The evening will celebrate their contributions to the community and commitment to the cause and mission of the American Cancer Society and proceeds from the evening will help local programs as well as research on a national basis. For information on the Casino Night, including tickets and advertising you can call (732) 818-3517.
Belated congratulations to the girl’s basketball teams from Jackson Memorial and Southern Regional as they will share the Class A South Divisional Championship. The Rams Kathy Snyder is the dean of shore conference coaches as this is her 30th season behind the Southern bench. Rachel Goodale is in her 8th season with the Jaguars and with a young team look for Jackson to be a real force again next winter. Both teams hope to make their mark in the Shore Conference and NJSIAA Tournaments.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Unemployment & The Recession
It seems like just about everyone knows of someone who has lost their job over the last few months as our economic woes continue and show no sign of getting better anytime soon. It’s a problem that has impacted nearly all
professions, companies and ages leaving many out of work and wondering what they can and should do. Seniority at times is no longer and asset but a curse as many companies have cut those at or near the top in terms of service and salary. Sometimes being the low man on the totem pole is not so bad after all.
This is also a scary time for young people, especially recent and soon-to-be
college graduates. Careers they have studied and sacrificed for have undergone drastic changes and doors that were once open are closing. How many young people have or will find themselves saddled with tens of thousands of dollars in student loans and no job? You can’t even guess as to the number of people in the early and mid 20’s who are victims of the current crisis. Many just left home and now might have to return…that is if their parents still have a home as foreclosure rates hit numbers that could not have been imagined a short time ago.
Many businesses and companies are trying to find ways to keep people employed from the elimination of perks to shortened work weeks and mandatory vacations without pay. Benefits are being reduced and even cut and who knows what else will have to be done to get through what could be a long and dreadful year.
It is at times like this that we need outlets from the 24/7 onslaught of negative news…even if those outlets are as simple as a movie, favorite TV program or even better…a radio show that brings a smile to your face. While we can’t forget what’s happening all around us we also can’t dwell on it all the time. Family and friends have never been more important and if we are lucky there will be a day we can look back and say….”I survived the financial crisis of 2009.” Unfortunately there will be many who don’t.
professions, companies and ages leaving many out of work and wondering what they can and should do. Seniority at times is no longer and asset but a curse as many companies have cut those at or near the top in terms of service and salary. Sometimes being the low man on the totem pole is not so bad after all.
This is also a scary time for young people, especially recent and soon-to-be
college graduates. Careers they have studied and sacrificed for have undergone drastic changes and doors that were once open are closing. How many young people have or will find themselves saddled with tens of thousands of dollars in student loans and no job? You can’t even guess as to the number of people in the early and mid 20’s who are victims of the current crisis. Many just left home and now might have to return…that is if their parents still have a home as foreclosure rates hit numbers that could not have been imagined a short time ago.
Many businesses and companies are trying to find ways to keep people employed from the elimination of perks to shortened work weeks and mandatory vacations without pay. Benefits are being reduced and even cut and who knows what else will have to be done to get through what could be a long and dreadful year.
It is at times like this that we need outlets from the 24/7 onslaught of negative news…even if those outlets are as simple as a movie, favorite TV program or even better…a radio show that brings a smile to your face. While we can’t forget what’s happening all around us we also can’t dwell on it all the time. Family and friends have never been more important and if we are lucky there will be a day we can look back and say….”I survived the financial crisis of 2009.” Unfortunately there will be many who don’t.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Honoring Coach Wolf
What better way to say goodbye to New Jersey’s most successful high school football coach than during a gathering of his peers. Brick Township’s Warren Wolf was honored during a special dinner during the Nike Coach of the Year Clinic at the Tropicana in Atlantic City Friday night.
More than 200 people attended the dinner, many of them former players
and those who coached with and against him during his 51 years roaming the sidelines for the Green Dragons. I had the honor and pleasure to serve as Master of Ceremonies.
Wolf was presented with a Penn State football from Nittany Lions assistant Dick Anderson which was signed by legendary coach Joe Paterno as well as Florida State’s Bobby Bowden and former Pittsburgh and Tennessee coach Johnny Majors. Bowden, who delivered the Benediction and Majors the President of the Nike Clinics sat at the Wolf table during the evening. Brick Principal Dennis Filillpone and Athletic Director Rick Handchen presented Wolf with his own letterman’s jacket courtesy of the Parent’s Club and he also received the Shore Football Coaches Foundation Legacy Award from Dan Duddy, a former Brick player and assistant coach who is now the head coach at Monsignor Donovan. Without question one of the highlights of the evening was an emotional speech delivered on behalf of Wolf’s former players from Steven Filippone, a four-time Connecticut Coach of the Year which summed up the pride that made Brick football so special. Rutgers assistant coach Joe Susan also spoke and offered his congratulations from everyone associated with the Scarlet Knights football team.
The program also included a video presentation put together by Travis Johnson of All Shore Media and the singing of Rudy Leustek. It was a wonderful tribute to a man who put Brick Township on the map by winning=2 025 Shore Conference Divisional Titles and six state championships. Special thanks must go to Lacey coach Lou Vircillo for all the work he did putting the dinner and program together.
On an unrelated note, congratulations to the Manchester Township High School Girls Bowling team. They rolled the highest score in all of South Jersey while winning the Group 2 Championship and three Hawk bowlers, Amanda DeMauro, Taylor Olsen and Kathryne Clark qualified for the individual championships. Brick Memorial and Toms River East also won sectional titles
More than 200 people attended the dinner, many of them former players
and those who coached with and against him during his 51 years roaming the sidelines for the Green Dragons. I had the honor and pleasure to serve as Master of Ceremonies.
Wolf was presented with a Penn State football from Nittany Lions assistant Dick Anderson which was signed by legendary coach Joe Paterno as well as Florida State’s Bobby Bowden and former Pittsburgh and Tennessee coach Johnny Majors. Bowden, who delivered the Benediction and Majors the President of the Nike Clinics sat at the Wolf table during the evening. Brick Principal Dennis Filillpone and Athletic Director Rick Handchen presented Wolf with his own letterman’s jacket courtesy of the Parent’s Club and he also received the Shore Football Coaches Foundation Legacy Award from Dan Duddy, a former Brick player and assistant coach who is now the head coach at Monsignor Donovan. Without question one of the highlights of the evening was an emotional speech delivered on behalf of Wolf’s former players from Steven Filippone, a four-time Connecticut Coach of the Year which summed up the pride that made Brick football so special. Rutgers assistant coach Joe Susan also spoke and offered his congratulations from everyone associated with the Scarlet Knights football team.
The program also included a video presentation put together by Travis Johnson of All Shore Media and the singing of Rudy Leustek. It was a wonderful tribute to a man who put Brick Township on the map by winning=2 025 Shore Conference Divisional Titles and six state championships. Special thanks must go to Lacey coach Lou Vircillo for all the work he did putting the dinner and program together.
On an unrelated note, congratulations to the Manchester Township High School Girls Bowling team. They rolled the highest score in all of South Jersey while winning the Group 2 Championship and three Hawk bowlers, Amanda DeMauro, Taylor Olsen and Kathryne Clark qualified for the individual championships. Brick Memorial and Toms River East also won sectional titles
Friday, February 6, 2009
Sports Friday
A few sports notes heading into the first weekend without Pro Football, unless you count the Pro Bowl which nobody does.
Congratulations to Brick Memorial for clinching the Class A South boys basketball championship with a 72-68 win over Southern last night behind Matt O’Brien’s 25 points. The division title is the first for third year coach Ed Sarluca Jr, whose Mustangs are 15-4 overall. A big win last night as well for Monsignor Donovan as the Griffins edged Point Boro 43-41 in a game we broadcast on the Shore Sports Network. Sophomore Sean Grennan scored 19 points and was named our Ocean Trophies Player-of-the-Game. Donovan can claim the Class B South title with wins at home next week over Lakewood and Pinelands.
On the girls side Manchester is within one victory of finishing a perfect Class B South schedule. The Lady Hawks got 22 points from Camille Valmon last night in a win over Central and are 13-0 in division play and
16-2 overall.
Recently retired Brick Township High School football coach Warren Wolf will be honored tonight at a dinner at the Tropicana in Atlantic City hosted by the Shore Coaches Foundation. The event will take place during the Nike Coaches Clinic run by Lacey coach Lou Vircillo and I will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Among those expected to attend are Florida State coach Bobby Bowden, former Tennessee and Pittsburgh coach Johnny Majors and Arizona’s Mike Stoops. Assistant coaches Dick Anderson of Penn State and Joe Susan of Rutgers are scheduled speakers at the dinner honoring Wolf, who won more games than any other coach in New Jersey history. A replacement has not yet been named.
On the subject of success there has never been anyone like Tennessee’s Pat Summit who last night became the first Division 1 coach, man or woman, to win 1,000 games when the Lady Vols crushed Georgia in Knoxville. Summit has coached at Tennessee since 1974 and her overall record is 1000-187, including 8 National Championships.
Congratulations to Brick Memorial for clinching the Class A South boys basketball championship with a 72-68 win over Southern last night behind Matt O’Brien’s 25 points. The division title is the first for third year coach Ed Sarluca Jr, whose Mustangs are 15-4 overall. A big win last night as well for Monsignor Donovan as the Griffins edged Point Boro 43-41 in a game we broadcast on the Shore Sports Network. Sophomore Sean Grennan scored 19 points and was named our Ocean Trophies Player-of-the-Game. Donovan can claim the Class B South title with wins at home next week over Lakewood and Pinelands.
On the girls side Manchester is within one victory of finishing a perfect Class B South schedule. The Lady Hawks got 22 points from Camille Valmon last night in a win over Central and are 13-0 in division play and
16-2 overall.
Recently retired Brick Township High School football coach Warren Wolf will be honored tonight at a dinner at the Tropicana in Atlantic City hosted by the Shore Coaches Foundation. The event will take place during the Nike Coaches Clinic run by Lacey coach Lou Vircillo and I will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Among those expected to attend are Florida State coach Bobby Bowden, former Tennessee and Pittsburgh coach Johnny Majors and Arizona’s Mike Stoops. Assistant coaches Dick Anderson of Penn State and Joe Susan of Rutgers are scheduled speakers at the dinner honoring Wolf, who won more games than any other coach in New Jersey history. A replacement has not yet been named.
On the subject of success there has never been anyone like Tennessee’s Pat Summit who last night became the first Division 1 coach, man or woman, to win 1,000 games when the Lady Vols crushed Georgia in Knoxville. Summit has coached at Tennessee since 1974 and her overall record is 1000-187, including 8 National Championships.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Ticking Off The Boss
It’s been an interesting couple of weeks for music icon and shore resident Bruce Springsteen. “The Boss” drew rave reviews for his Super Bowl halftime show but sandwiched in between are a couple of controversies he
and his E Street Band could have done without. First was the Wal-Mart exclusive release last month of a Greatest Hits record which resulted in much criticism. Springsteen has always been known as the working man’s
star while the retailer has often come under fire for the way they treat the so-called working man. In truth Wal-Mart has been the top retailer for Springsteen music in recent years and it was Sony who negotiated the exclusive deal. However the 59-year old rocker did later admit it was probably not the right thing to do and he should have gotten involved.
But now he’s in the news again although this latest fiasco is one that he’s very unhappy with….just like many of his fans. Many of those who wanted to buy tickets on line for Springsteen concerts at the Meadowlands this spring got duped pretty good by Ticketmaster. They first got an error message on their computer screen and were linked to another site where concert tickets were being sold for as much as 300% more then the face value. What’s worse was that site….TicketsNow is also owned by Ticketmaster which falls under the category of “something smells fishy.”
This is not the first time things like this have happened. It seems when there are high-demand concerts it’s not unusual for tickets to be sold out in minutes to the general public only to find that many of them are available through these so-called resellers for hundreds of dollars more. New Jersey officials have an obligation to get involved on behalf of all residents as this goes way beyond accepted business practices. Meanwhile if you have extra tickets to see Springsteen and want to sell them at face value…give me a call.
On an unrelated note, Monsignor Donovan hosts Point Boro in a key divisional basketball game tonight which we’ll broadcast on the Shore Sports Network, including 1160AM. Tipoff is at 6:30 from Gepp Gym.
and his E Street Band could have done without. First was the Wal-Mart exclusive release last month of a Greatest Hits record which resulted in much criticism. Springsteen has always been known as the working man’s
star while the retailer has often come under fire for the way they treat the so-called working man. In truth Wal-Mart has been the top retailer for Springsteen music in recent years and it was Sony who negotiated the exclusive deal. However the 59-year old rocker did later admit it was probably not the right thing to do and he should have gotten involved.
But now he’s in the news again although this latest fiasco is one that he’s very unhappy with….just like many of his fans. Many of those who wanted to buy tickets on line for Springsteen concerts at the Meadowlands this spring got duped pretty good by Ticketmaster. They first got an error message on their computer screen and were linked to another site where concert tickets were being sold for as much as 300% more then the face value. What’s worse was that site….TicketsNow is also owned by Ticketmaster which falls under the category of “something smells fishy.”
This is not the first time things like this have happened. It seems when there are high-demand concerts it’s not unusual for tickets to be sold out in minutes to the general public only to find that many of them are available through these so-called resellers for hundreds of dollars more. New Jersey officials have an obligation to get involved on behalf of all residents as this goes way beyond accepted business practices. Meanwhile if you have extra tickets to see Springsteen and want to sell them at face value…give me a call.
On an unrelated note, Monsignor Donovan hosts Point Boro in a key divisional basketball game tonight which we’ll broadcast on the Shore Sports Network, including 1160AM. Tipoff is at 6:30 from Gepp Gym.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
A Snowy Letter Of Intent Day
Many things change with time but one that does not is kids wanting snow days from school, even if it means adding days at the end of the year. My daughter kept looking outside last night and tried to convince me that today should be a snow day even when I said the roads were fine. There is something special about being able to go back to sleep and if it’s on a day when you have a major test it’s even better.
Congratulations to Rumson-Fair Haven girls basketball coach George Sourlis on winning his 500th career game last night as the Bulldogs beat Manasquan. Sourlis is 500-141 in his 23rd season at Rumson and his teams have won 12 state sectional titles as well as five WOBM Christmas Classic championships in the last eight years. The father of three is not only an outstanding coach but a real gentleman and personifies the word “class.” Sourlis has had many outstanding players at Rumson and the latest is Princeton bound Kate Miller, who also reached a milestone last night by becoming the fourth girl in school history to score 1500 career points.
Today is a big day for high school senior football players. It’s National Letter of Intent Day which is when student-athletes can accept and sign scholarship offers. There will be a handful of those from Ocean County who will do so with Division-1 schools and heading up that group is Glenn Carson of Southern Regional, who will sign with Penn State and teammate Anthony Stroffolino, who is headed to the University of Pennsylvania. Toms River North’s Evan Regas is bound for Temple University and Brick Memorial’s Anthony D’Elia is expected to sign with Monmouth University.
The end of an era has come with the passing of Joe Citta, who died last weekend in Florida at the age of 100. A lawyer, businessman and philanthropist there might be no other individual in the history of Toms River who has left a greater legacy. Mr. Citta and his family have generously supported organizations and causes which have benefited so many and long before there was the expression “pay it forward” he did so
on an almost daily basis. While he will be missed greatly, his family and friends are comforted by the fact that he can now join his wife Regina and son Phil in eternal rest.
Congratulations to Rumson-Fair Haven girls basketball coach George Sourlis on winning his 500th career game last night as the Bulldogs beat Manasquan. Sourlis is 500-141 in his 23rd season at Rumson and his teams have won 12 state sectional titles as well as five WOBM Christmas Classic championships in the last eight years. The father of three is not only an outstanding coach but a real gentleman and personifies the word “class.” Sourlis has had many outstanding players at Rumson and the latest is Princeton bound Kate Miller, who also reached a milestone last night by becoming the fourth girl in school history to score 1500 career points.
Today is a big day for high school senior football players. It’s National Letter of Intent Day which is when student-athletes can accept and sign scholarship offers. There will be a handful of those from Ocean County who will do so with Division-1 schools and heading up that group is Glenn Carson of Southern Regional, who will sign with Penn State and teammate Anthony Stroffolino, who is headed to the University of Pennsylvania. Toms River North’s Evan Regas is bound for Temple University and Brick Memorial’s Anthony D’Elia is expected to sign with Monmouth University.
The end of an era has come with the passing of Joe Citta, who died last weekend in Florida at the age of 100. A lawyer, businessman and philanthropist there might be no other individual in the history of Toms River who has left a greater legacy. Mr. Citta and his family have generously supported organizations and causes which have benefited so many and long before there was the expression “pay it forward” he did so
on an almost daily basis. While he will be missed greatly, his family and friends are comforted by the fact that he can now join his wife Regina and son Phil in eternal rest.
A Snowy Letter Of Intent Day
Many things change with time but one that does not is kids wanting snow days from school, even if it means adding days at the end of the year. My daughter kept looking outside last night and tried to convince me that today should be a snow day even when I said the roads were fine. There is something special about being able to go back to sleep and if it’s on a day when you have a major test it’s even better.
Congratulations to Rumson-Fair Haven girls basketball coach George Sourlis on winning his 500th career game last night as the Bulldogs beat Manasquan. Sourlis is 500-141 in his 23rd season at Rumson and his teams have won 12 state sectional titles as well as five WOBM Christmas Classic championships in the last eight years. The father of three is not only an outstanding coach but a real gentleman and personifies the word “class.” Sourlis has had many outstanding players at Rumson and the latest is Princeton bound Kate Miller, who also reached a milestone last night by becoming the fourth girl in school history to score 1500 career points.
Today is a big day for high school senior football players. It’s National Letter of Intent Day which is when student-athletes can accept and sign scholarship offers. There will be a handful of those from Ocean County who will do so with Division-1 schools and heading up that group is Glenn Carson of Southern Regional, who will sign with Penn State and teammate Anthony Stroffolino, who is headed to the University of Pennsylvania. Toms River North’s Evan Regas is bound for Temple University and Brick Memorial’s Anthony D’Elia is expected to sign with Monmouth University.
The end of an era has come with the passing of Joe Citta, who died last weekend in Florida at the age of 100. A lawyer, businessman and philanthropist there might be no other individual in the history of Toms River who has left a greater legacy. Mr. Citta and his family have generously supported organizations and causes which have benefited so many and long before there was the expression “pay it forward” he did so
on an almost daily basis. While he will be missed greatly, his family and friends are comforted by the fact that he can now join his wife Regina and son Phil in eternal rest.
Congratulations to Rumson-Fair Haven girls basketball coach George Sourlis on winning his 500th career game last night as the Bulldogs beat Manasquan. Sourlis is 500-141 in his 23rd season at Rumson and his teams have won 12 state sectional titles as well as five WOBM Christmas Classic championships in the last eight years. The father of three is not only an outstanding coach but a real gentleman and personifies the word “class.” Sourlis has had many outstanding players at Rumson and the latest is Princeton bound Kate Miller, who also reached a milestone last night by becoming the fourth girl in school history to score 1500 career points.
Today is a big day for high school senior football players. It’s National Letter of Intent Day which is when student-athletes can accept and sign scholarship offers. There will be a handful of those from Ocean County who will do so with Division-1 schools and heading up that group is Glenn Carson of Southern Regional, who will sign with Penn State and teammate Anthony Stroffolino, who is headed to the University of Pennsylvania. Toms River North’s Evan Regas is bound for Temple University and Brick Memorial’s Anthony D’Elia is expected to sign with Monmouth University.
The end of an era has come with the passing of Joe Citta, who died last weekend in Florida at the age of 100. A lawyer, businessman and philanthropist there might be no other individual in the history of Toms River who has left a greater legacy. Mr. Citta and his family have generously supported organizations and causes which have benefited so many and long before there was the expression “pay it forward” he did so
on an almost daily basis. While he will be missed greatly, his family and friends are comforted by the fact that he can now join his wife Regina and son Phil in eternal rest.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Valentine's Day Suggestions For Men
As we are less than two weeks from Valentine’s Day I thought today would be a good time to offer as a public service to men some things you should probably never say to a woman. Of course we know that it’s never a good thing to ask a woman her age but there are another dozen or so statements and questions that would be better off kept to yourself. They may not seem malicious on the surface but there is nothing really good that can come out of saying the following:
• What did you do to your hair?
• What aren’t you married?
• You are really being irrational.
• Your best friend is really hot.
• Can I kiss you? (you should not have to ask)
• You aren’t one of those feminists, are you?
• You’re cute when you are mad.
• That’s not the way my Ex did it.
• So how old are you (I know I said this is automatic but some guys
continue to make the mistake).
• You sound just like your mother.
• Smile!
• Do you really think you should be eating that?
• Relax!
• When are you due? (this is in reference to a pregnant woman but
make sure you know she’s pregnant first).
• Do you really need another pair of shoes?
• What’s the big deal; you have another birthday next year.
• I don’t care, whatever you want. It doesn’t matter to me.
• Is it that time of month (should need no explanation).
In the near future we will follow up with some of the things women should never say to men but topping that list is, “it’s only a game.”
• What did you do to your hair?
• What aren’t you married?
• You are really being irrational.
• Your best friend is really hot.
• Can I kiss you? (you should not have to ask)
• You aren’t one of those feminists, are you?
• You’re cute when you are mad.
• That’s not the way my Ex did it.
• So how old are you (I know I said this is automatic but some guys
continue to make the mistake).
• You sound just like your mother.
• Smile!
• Do you really think you should be eating that?
• Relax!
• When are you due? (this is in reference to a pregnant woman but
make sure you know she’s pregnant first).
• Do you really need another pair of shoes?
• What’s the big deal; you have another birthday next year.
• I don’t care, whatever you want. It doesn’t matter to me.
• Is it that time of month (should need no explanation).
In the near future we will follow up with some of the things women should never say to men but topping that list is, “it’s only a game.”
Monday, February 2, 2009
Super Sunday
For the second straight year Super Bowl Sunday produced a memorable game that went right down to the very end with the Pittsburgh Steelers pulling out a heart-wrenching 27-23 victory over the upstart Arizona Cardinals in Tampa, Florida. For those who thought nothing could top the Giants last-minute victory over New England last year, Super Bowl 43 saw the teams combine for 23 fourth-quarter points and Pittsburgh win a record sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy.
With the exception of one play the game was not very memorable going into the final quarter as the Steelers led a penalty-filled contest 20-7. That one play was a 100-yard interception return by Pittsburgh’s James Harrison on the final play of the first half which gave the black and gold a 17-7 lead just when it appeared Arizona would go ahead.
However the fourth quarter was a classic with the Cardinals scoring 16 unanswered points, capped by Larry Fitzgerald’s 64-yard catch and run which put Arizona ahead 23-20 with just 2:37 left to play. It turned out that was enough time for Ben Roethlisberger, who drove the Steelers downfield and connected with MVP Santonio Holmes on a perfectly-executed pass play with 35 seconds left for the winning score to set off a wild celebration
as fans waved their “terrible towels” in joy.
It seemed many did not have high hopes for the game but the teams put on quite a show and to be honest I think the better team lost. The Cardinals overcame 11 penalties and a 100-yard defensive touchdown to torch the vaunted Steelers defense for 407 yards. But in the end Pittsburgh emerged with the victory on a night which saw Bruce Springteen and the E Street Band rock the house for 12 high energy minutes at halftime. The show and the game made for a very good Super Sunday. As for the commercials…well Doritos stole the show with the snow globe ad. Budweiser’s use of their famous Clydesdales produced a couple of cute spots, I liked the Pepsi commercial featuring Bob Dylan and Will.I.Am and what was more tragic then Ed McMahon and MC Hammer pitching the selling of all their gold? Actually the Cardinals losing in the final minute was pretty sad if you like rooting for the underdog.
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