Ocean Grove. January 21, 2016. Blogfinger.net photo ©
LEON REDBONE “Steal Away Blues.”
Archive for the ‘Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity’ Category
A walk on the wild side—a new path allows a way to bypass the boardwalk construction at the North End
Posted in Ocean Grove boardwalk, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, Photo news from Ocean Grove, Photograph by Paul Goldfinger, Photographic Gallery: Ocean Grove, Photography at The Jersey Shore, tagged Bypass surgery in Ocean Grove on January 21, 2016|
Who is Tony Campolo and will he fill more seats in the Great Auditorium than the Beach Boys?
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, Ocean Grove events, Ocean Grove issues, Ocean Grove news, Ocean Grove opinions, tagged Ocean Grove United, Tony Campolo in Ocean Grove on August 14, 2015| 3 Comments »
Inside the Great Auditorium, June, 2007. This image appears in Bell, Bell and Dufresne’s definitive history of the GA. By Paul Goldfinger © Blogfinger.net
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger:
It turns out that Tony Campolo is a well known Baptist Evangelical preacher. He has been to the GA many times in the past and has a reputation for being a very entertaining speaker.
In recent times, he has caused some controversy because of his opinions about gays and about gay marriage. According to OGU, he is an “activist” who has “publicly expressed his support for the inclusion of same-sex couples in the church. ”
According to OGU, he has said, “I am finally ready to call for the full acceptance of Christian gay couples into the church.”
Rev. Tony Campolo. Internet photo.
Ordinarily Blogfinger would take no interest in the GA Sunday sermons, except this time a local organization, Ocean Grove United, has called for its members and friends to “welcome” Rev. Dr. Tony Campolo when he comes here Sunday to be the guest speaker.
Is this the first time that an organization other than the CMA has formally planned to “welcome” a speaker at the Sunday sermons?
But what interests us the most at Blogfinger is that OGU, in a follow-up email, has not only repeated its notice to supporters to “make every effort to attend” on Sunday, but now they say that Rev. Campolo “has received a great deal of flack for supporting the lgbt community, and those who disagree with him will not turn out for his program. It is extremely important for the CMA to see that Ministers who preach love will pack the house. Please tell friends and neighbors as well.”
Is that true that only Campolo’s supporters plan to show up?
In addition OGU asks its supporters to “gather outside the auditorium at 9:30” The service begins at 10:30 am.
So, without making any judgments, I have to say that this sounds like a political demonstration/message and thus meets our criteria as news. Even if a group gathers one hour before the event, and even if there are no signs or chants, their very presence will carry a powerful message as described above,
This is not the first time that a situation like this has occurred in the Grove, and this conflict will affect the entire town in one way or another. No matter how Sunday morning unfolds, Blogfinger will report on it. Those of you who attend can email us with your views or you can comment under this post.
THE MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR WITH THE PHILADELPHIA BRASS ENSEMBLE: “Abide With Me; ‘Tis Eventide.”
The fundamental flaw in our conversations about the “Sermon Controversy.”
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, Ocean Grove lifestyles, Photograph by Paul Goldfinger, Photographic Gallery: Ocean Grove, tagged Ocean Grove controversy, Sermon controversy in Ocean Grove on August 4, 2015| 20 Comments »
Great Auditorium. Ocean Grove, NJ. Undated. By Paul Goldfinger © Blogfinger.net Click to enlarge.
The actual posts about the OGU letter to the CMA and the decision to drop out of the Sunday dedication ceremony are clear and specific in their content.
But the comments that have resulted are all over the place. As a result, for me as editor, it’s like herding cats. We have tried to stay focused, but it’s been difficult.
The fundamental flaw in all this talk is that a transcript or recording (audio or video) of Rabbi Jonathan Cahn’s sermon has not been made available so that we could find out for ourselves exactly what the Rabbi said, and we could judge for ourselves. ( addendum: Today we did find out where to locate an audio file of the sermon.* )
Too many commenters speak as if they were there, when actually they seem to be reacting to hear-say. Even the original OGU letter says, “Many people in town have brought it to our attention that today’s sermon in the Great Auditorium was filled with hateful commentary about marriage equality.”
Regarding the speaker’s views on homosexuality, we don’t even know if he was criticizing gay marriage only or if there were other related concerns. Without the actual content, how could anyone definitively decide that the speaker was “bigoted” and/or “hateful” unless they were actually there or had a transcript? But most of us were not there.
That is why some commenters are focusing on other aspects such as the speaker’s reputation, the process whereby speakers are chosen, attacks on the CMA, and even whether or not he is a real rabbi. They feel pressure to say something without actually knowing what the sermon contained.
Some commenters seem to be working from a list of talking points—resorting to name-calling (ie “bigot, bigoted speech, spewing hate, hateful,” are showing up repeatedly) Since we do not allow such language, we have had to reject those references. But even those who try to stick to the issues are handicapped by not having the exact sermon to read, view, or hear.
ADDENDUM: LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE SERMON WHICH IS NOW AVAILABLE:
* Try this link from the CMA:
I was able to listen to the entire 50 minute sermon by using the Firefox Browser. It the link doesn’t work on your computer, try it on your pad or iPhone.
For those of you who think you know what he said, but didn’t actually hear what he said, especially those who went on the record in Blogfinger, you should listen to him with an open mind and then ask yourself if this pastor is “spewing hate” and/or is “bigoted.” Or is your anger directed at him because he disagrees regarding the recent Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage? As a Christian pastor, should he be condemned for quoting the Bible? Let us know what you think after listening to the sermon. The parts about gay marriage kick in late in the presentation.
–Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
Looking at the North End Redevelopment Plan (NERP.) Part II
Posted in Neptune Township News, North End Redevelopment, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, Ocean Grove North End Redevelopment Plan, tagged Ocean Grove North End Development Plan, Redevelopers agreement for Ocean Grove North End, Redevelopers agreement in Ocean Grove on April 15, 2015| 8 Comments »
Northern lights. Ocean Grove seeks transparency. Paul Goldfinger photograph. April, 2015 ©
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
In our last article, we reported that the Redeveloper for the North End was chosen in 2008 by the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association and included not only the OGCMA itself, but a mysterious entity called WAVE. (Wesley Atlantic Village Enterprises.)
Ordinarily a redeveloper for a “zone in need of redevelopment” would be chosen by the Township, but somehow that was handled differently here. Usually the choice of redeveloper involves sealed bids, public notices, and hearings regarding who the bidders are and how the winner is chosen. We have no information as to how that process was accomplished in this instance and who the members of WAVE are.
A contract ( a “developer’s agreement”) must be signed between the Redeveloper and the Township that would spell out exactly what the Redeveloper’s obligations are. Evidently such a contract was never signed, because it appears that one is to be negotiated now. (see below)
Hill Wallack, a law firm that specializes in such projects said, “A developer’s agreement between the designated redeveloper and the municipality is required, and it must contain a time frame for commencement of development, as well as other statutorily mandated requirements. The agreement specifies the rights and responsibilities of the redeveloper. The terms and flexibility of that agreement can be the difference between a successful project for a developer and a financial disaster.”
It was at a Neptune Township meeting on June 9, 2008, that the choice of Redeveloper was on the agenda as Resolution #292. During the open part of the meeting, the Mayor requested public comments regarding resolutions on the agenda. The quotes below are from the typed minutes of that meeting:
“Former Mayor, the late Joseph Krimko said that he thought that Resolution #292 would be open and transparent and at some time a contract would be prepared detailing what the developer would be doing. He thought there would be several meetings prior to that final hearing.”
Then “Mayor Bishop stated quite frankly he did not remember that.
” Then “Mr. Anthony (the Township attorney) stated you have to negotiate the contract to come up with a plan.”
Then “Mr. Krimko stated he just wanted to make sure that meetings were held prior to the final hearing.”
Mrs. Argyros, a lawyer in the audience, “questioned what type of developer’s agreement would be used in Resolution #292.”
“Mayor Bishop stated it would be a standard agreement.”
Later in that meeting, the actual resolution was read. It said that the CMA “selected Wesley Atlantic Village Enterprises, LLC (WAVE) as the developer of the property, and WAVE is the contract purchaser of the site.” *
Later, the minutes say that the “Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association and WAVE have agreed to serve as the Co-Redevelopers of the property.”
Another provision says, “……The Township, the Camp Meeting Association, and WAVE believe that the redevelopment of the zone pursuant to the terms of the Redevelopment Agreement are in the best interests of the Township and will promote the health, safety and welfare of its residents……”
So, we see that the Neptune Township Committee approved the Co-Redevelopers in 2008, but the Camp Meeting Association conducted the actual process of selecting the redevelopers.
Finally, Mayor Bishop announced that a “Negotiating team for the Redevelopment Agreement will be himself, Ms. Jahn, Mr. Bascom and Mr. Huhn.” As it turns out, that Redevelopers Agreement was never consummated. It also appears that the WAVE group was not publically identified and *it seems that they have a contract to buy the property.
This meeting in 2008 marks the formal beginning of a public process which places special obligations on the participants including transparency.
Fast forward to the Neptune Township Committee meeting of Monday, April 13, 2015. The NERP was not on the agenda, but during the public portion, Mr. Jack Bredin asked about negotiating the Redevelopment Agreement. He wondered how the Township Committee could negotiate with people that they do not know. Ann Horan, President of the OGHOA, went to the mic and stated, “We have done a lot of research as to who the principals of WAVE are, and we still have no idea.”
The Township Attorney, Gene Anthony, said , “We know who they are.” But evidently he did not want to name names. Why the privacy on this point?
The negotiation process began today, Wednesday, April 15, 2015. A meeting was held with the Township Engineer, Township Attorney, Committeeman Bishop and W.A.V.E. representatives. The CMA did not attend nor did Committeewoman Mary Beth Jahn who is supposed to be on the negotiating team.
According to Rick Cuttrell, Township Clerk, once an agreement is reached, the finalization has to occur at a public meeting.
AARON COPLAND “Fanfare for the Common Man.”
How does the Camp Meeting Association view its roll as it interacts with the town of Ocean Grove writ large?
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove North End Redevelopment Plan, tagged North End Redevelopment in Ocean Grove, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association on February 11, 2015| 5 Comments »
Ocean Grove’s Wesley Lake will form part of the North End Redevelopment zone. Photo by Paul Goldfinger, 2012. © Click to enlarge.
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.
Steve Valk’s letter to the editor speaks about the idea of Ocean Grove as a community of multiple vertically integrated parts which he has analyzed for us in prior interviews. (Steve Valk on the OG community. LINK: BF conversation with social scientist Steve Valk)
He and I both agree that our town is unique and needs to be appreciated for its fascinating components, one of which is the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association (OGCMA).
The role of the OGCMA in this community is basically a positive influence, despite what some cynics say. We had a fire last week, and the welcome mat was immediately rolled out at the Youth Temple as well as providing other services such as fund raising for the Fire Relief fund. The CMA has a track record of emergency relief and charitable efforts. They reached out to the various town civic groups in a big way after Sandy, and that effort has been remarkable and has benefitted us all.
But, from a wider perspective, what do they view as their place in the overall community of Ocean Grove? What about now, with the North End Redevelopment looming in the future? We have heard little from them on this subject.
What does the CMA think about the effects their North End project will have on everyone who calls Ocean Grove home? The CMA did create the town in 1869, so do they really want the North End to become Asbury Park South? The indications suggest that they do, because they have stuck to their plan which was originated in 2008 and unchanged since then.
Sure, there is the history of the old North End amusement/hotel/recreation area, and that “old fashioned” North End may be a precedent, but is it historic? If history is their argument, then maybe they should look at the earliest park-like setting over there which contained tents and trees for perhaps 30 or 40 years after the founding.
The old North End Hotel was torn down in 1978, and this “area in need of redevelopment” has been essentially unchanged since then. The CMA had to turn over control of the North End Development to Neptune Township, but as land owner and co-developer, it certainly has influence over what happens in the future.
Some citizens believe that the CMA should worry about the effects that the 2008 North End design will have on Ocean Grove’s appearance, safety, parking, lifestyle, etc. Because the CMA tends not to go public with such concerns, we don’t know how they feel about it, and the final plans are incomplete. If there are Grovers who believe that the CMA should change its mind about the project, then they should write to them or meet with them.
Sometime, commenters on Blogfinger want the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association to get involved with more general issues in town such as historic preservation and derelict housing. The basis for that belief seems to mostly stem from the land ownership issue and historic relationships.
But the CMA is a private organization that already does a great deal for the town. Isn’t it unfair to expect more from them?
—–Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
AIR SUPPLY: “Lost in Love.”
A mis-step in the Coaster, and a contentious Ocean Grove issue bubbles to the surface.
Posted in Blogfinger News, Blogfinger opinion, Feature article, North End Redevelopment, Ocean Grove architecture, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, Ocean Grove North End Redevelopment Plan, Opinion on Blogfinger, tagged Anne Horan president of the Ocean Grove Homeowners Association, Coaster puts out inaccurate information about Ocean Grove redevelopment, NERP, Ocean Grove Homeowners Association, Ocean Grove North End Redevelopment Plan on February 3, 2015| 33 Comments »
The North End Redevelopment Zone is bordered by the boardwalk, Wesley Lake, Beach Ave, and Spray Avenue (foreground). West to east photo by Prosper Bellizia, Blogfinger staff. © This was first posted in 2015.
Northeast aspect of the Redevelopment zone. Prosper Bellizia ©
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
In the December 4, 2014 issue of the Coaster is a column called “Did You Know?” by reporter Bonnie Graham. The focus of the piece was to explain the functions of the Ocean Grove Home Owners Association. Ms. Graham interviewed HOA President Ann Horan and wasted no time in bringing up the controversial North End Redevelopment Plan (NERP).
In responding to Graham’s questions about the NERP, Horan made an unforced error and got the facts wrong,* resulting in a mild tempest at the subsequent Township Committee meeting on December 22, 2014. The NERP, after all, is a sensitive and critical subject in Ocean Grove.
Between Horan’s embarrassing factual mis-step in the Coaster and the reaction to it before the Neptune governing body, our interest in revisiting the story of the NERP was aroused. On top of that, Graham made a comment in the same article that “CMA COO JP Gradone had asserted last August, 2014, at the legislative breakfast meeting, that the North End redevelopment project, which had been on the back burner for some time, is now on the front burner.” Really ?
On January 23, 2015, Blogfinger asked Gradone about that quote, and he said, “We are currently in discussion with the Developer regarding the project.” So there is some life in the process after many years of mystery, and therefore it’s time for the public to pay attention once again. It should be noted that work cannot go ahead on the plan without a signed Redevelopment Agreement between the Township Committee negotiators (Committee-persons Jahn and Bishop) and the developers.
By way of background, in the year 2006, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, owners of the undeveloped 2.37 acre North End property, decided to bring the desolate area back to its previous life where it was a lively place with a hotel, a cinema, attractions and shopping. But one thing stood in the way—-zoning; it was zoned for 13 single family homes.
So the developers of the property, including the CMA and others involved, created an end-run and convinced the Township Planning Board to redefine the area as a zone “in need of redevelopment,” in accordance with the State Local Redevelopment and Housing Law. This meant that the property was so “blighted,” that local government had to take over its management. That new designation would allow a mixed use community to be built.
The design of a redevelopment was turned over to professional planners in Middletown to come up with a ” framework” for a mixed use community at the OG North End. Ultimately, a much more detailed plan would have to be done before any construction could begin. Two planners signed the NERP, but no engineers did.
The developers of the plan include the OGCMA and a partnership called WAVE (see below.)
In early 2008, the HPC, the CMA, and the OG Homeowners Association provided input which resulted in some changes in the NERP, and that was the last time that there were any changes made. The Planning Board approved the proposal, and in March, 2008, the Township Committee wrote the NERP into law. A lawsuit was filed in opposition, and that held things up for awhile, but in 2010, Neptune Township won the suit.
The Plan includes a hotel with 80 rooms, 85 residential units consisting mostly of condos, some single family homes, a “below grade” parking deck and about 20 surface parking spaces. Parking is supposed to comply with RSIS State standards. A 99 year renewable lease was part of the deal. The design was supposed to look Victorian.
You can read the official NERP document at the Clerk’s office in the Neptune Township Municipal Building. It is no longer available on the Township web site, but we have located a link (below) where you can read the entire planning report. **
For a variety of undisclosed reasons, the project has been dormant. Among the theories are that a bad economy has been inhibitory and/or there have been difficulties getting all the approvals.
In 2011 the HOA passed a resolution asking that the NERP be scaled back. They offered some constructive ideas. There is a link below reporting on their recommendations. Unfortunately, nothing came of it.
In 2012 there were objections raised by the soon-to-be-elected Committeewoman Marybeth Jahn regarding the size, scope and other details of the project. Ms. Jahn spoke aggressively of changing the NERP in a totally retro direction, and everybody cheered. It should also be noted that two other Committeemen were sympathetic to downsizing the project—-Eric Houghtaling and Randy Bishop.
Evidently buyers’ remorse was echoing through the town of Ocean Grove. But not a single change was adopted despite these outcries. Our October 2012 piece on this subject is linked below and is critically important reading material for every Ocean Grover.
In Sept. 2012, the following was reported in Blogfinger, covering the year-end Labor Day CMA meeting: “CMA Trustee Douglas E. Arpert responded to a questioner who asked the status of the North End development of condos, homes and a hotel. The CMA and a company called WAVE (Wesley Atlantic Village Enterprises run by attorney William Gannon) are co-developers. Arpert told Blogfinger they hope to conclude a redevelopment agreement with Neptune Township by the end of the year and to break ground in 2013.”
But, of course, one month later, all of that changed with Sandy, and the developers planned to go back to the drawing board to “reassess” the plan. That made sense, because environmental regulations after the superstorm were going to change how things must be done in environmentally sensitive areas. That was the last time we heard anything about NERP—until now (2015).
So, getting back to the aforementioned HOA President Ann Horan’s December, 2014 Coaster interview, she said that the current “North End Committee (and she listed the current members’ names) have expressed the HOA’s concerns regarding the project to the Neptune Township Committee, and their efforts helped to persuade the Committee to revise the redevelopment plan by reducing the number of proposed hotel rooms/condominium units, limiting the size of the structures in the site, providing for single family homes, and including an off street parking facility”
The problem with Horan’s December public statement in the Coaster is that she gave the false impression that the current North End Committee has been “active” in eliciting recent changes in the Redevelopment Plan. But, as noted, there have been no changes in NERP since 2008—-7 years ago.
Horan’s statement was of sufficient concern that it was brought up at the Dec. 22, 2014 Township Committee meeting where her remarks were discussed publicly, and Committeeman Randy Bishop found it necessary to make a public statement about it (see below.) The Township Committee’s minutes are posted at Neptunetownship.org
The following is taken from the Committee minutes of Dec. 22, 2014:
“Jack Breden, 94 1⁄2 Heck Avenue, read a recent Coaster article regarding the Ocean Grove Homeowners Association concerns regarding the North End Redevelopment Plan. The President of the Association, Ann Horan, is quoted that the Redevelopment Plan was changed based on recommendations from the Association. The article goes on to state that the Association got numerous elements of the Plan changed. Mr. Bishop stated changes were made to the Plan based on Association input before the Plan was adopted in 2008. There have been no changes made to the Plan since it was adopted in 2008.”
Because of the importance of the Redevelopment Plan to the town of Ocean Grove, “Horangate” has given us a heads-up to bring the plan’s story out of mothballs and into the public eye once again. Concerned citizens need the background to assess whatever may be coming our way re: NERP.
Regarding starting work on the project, Committeeman Eric Houghtaling told Blogfinger three weeks ago, “I know that there are many, many things that need to be worked out before anything can be done on the Redevelopment project.”
Township Clerk Rick Cuttrell said earlier this month that he thought that the project had gotten all necessary approvals, including NJDEP, but he wasn’t certain and would find out. We have not heard back yet on that inquiry.
So, now that the cat is out of the bag once again, and the history of the HOA’s involvement is cleared up, we will consider a series of more detailed Blogfinger articles about the North End Redevelopment and what the future will bring.
It’s time to pay attention again, because anything new in this story, even just a dorsal fin in the water, must be made public. Currently the NERP is no different in size, scope or specifics than it was in 2008 when there were many misgivings in town about local congestion, environmental impact, parking, and other quality of life issues. The project will affect the future of Ocean Grove in a major way.
RELEVENT LINKS AND NOTES BELOW:
1. North end plan from 2008**
Click to access Redevelopment%20Plan_03-06-08_NorthEnd.pdf
2. Dec 13, 2010: BF “basic fact guide” about NERP Link to 2010 BF review
3. May, 2011: HOA passes a resolution which results in no changes to the NERP HOA NERP resolution 2011 BF post link
4. October 2012: Very important article which all Grovers should read. Blogfinger was the last OG entity to plead for a reduction in the project. Link: BF Oct 12, 2012 North End article
BF quote from the Oct. 2012 article linked above (a very important piece written shortly before Sandy:) “If this is built, it will be the most massive construction project in Ocean Grove’s modern history. Its impact on all of us will be substantial, and that impact will begin at the opening gun, with the start of construction. ”
If you use the BF search engine on the top of our home page, just type in “North end redevelopment plan” for more details.
WANTED: Experienced researchers to help BF in assessing and investigating this very important subject in great detail looking back and forward. You won’t get the details unless you, the people, get it yourselves.
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association clarifies the “fuel tank remediation” situation on Main Avenue
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove in the news, tagged gas tank remediation on Main Avenue in Ocean Grove on November 14, 2014| 1 Comment »
On November 12, we posted an item regarding testing to be done by the DEP on Main Avenue by the toy store. We had no details at that point, however, today we heard from J.P. Gradone, the COO/Executive Director of the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association. His comments are below, and we thank him for helping us get the story straight.
Here is the background link: Link to DEP story
—PG
Email from JP Gradone dated Nov. 14, 2014:
“Let me update you and give some clarification as to the matter of the fuel tank remediation at the hardware store. As you may be aware, over 20 years ago several fuel tanks were removed from an area in front of the hardware store. At that time, some soil contamination was detected and a remediation plan initiated by our Environmental Consultant.
“The additional temporary monitoring wells that will be installed on Monday, will be the next step in our process towards the closing of this case. Oversight of this project is being done by our Environmental Consultant who specializes in groundwater/soil remediation, and works in cooperation with the NJDEP. Although this is a long and expensive process, the Camp Meeting is committed to bringing this to a successful end.“
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Will Not Appeal the FEMA Decision to Deny Funding for the Fishing Pier
Posted in Blogfinger News, Hurricane Sandy funding in Ocean Grove, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, tagged CMA will not appeal for FEMA funding for the fishing pier on July 9, 2014| 3 Comments »
Ocean Grove Fishing Pier. November, 2013. © Paul Goldfinger photo. Click on photos enlarge them.
OG pier far end. By Paul Goldfinger. © July 9, 2014
OG Fishing Pier near end. Blogfinger photo © July 9, 2014
We have learned about this decision in an email from JP Gradone, COO of the Camp Meeting Association. Here is the press release:
“As you know, we received written notification from FEMA in May that the OGCMA was ineligible for FEMA public assistance for the pier because the facility is a recreational facility owned by a private non-profit. At that time, we expressed our disappointment in the decision and indicated that we would proceed with an appeal within the required 60 days.
After a significant review of documentation and policies with our consultants and the State of New Jersey Public Assistance Office, the Executive Committee met on July 6 in light of the FEMA appeal deadline on July 12 and determined that we do not have the required justification and documentation to support a viable appeal to FEMA.
Therefore, we will not be filing an appeal to FEMA for a re-determination of eligibility for the Ocean Grove Pier.
We are currently focusing our attention on completing the North End Boardwalk in the off-season, as well as completion of the Great Auditorium roof and Thornley Chapel.
The Executive Committee will, in the future, be considering a variety of options for the pier and be in discussion with the Fishing Club. No final decision will be made regarding the Fishing Pier without the full Board’s discussion and approval.
Editor’s Note: After Sandy hit, it was determined early on that rebuilding the pier was not a high priority. It was considered to be Phase 3. In the interim, volunteers built it out past 250 feet—the original length was 500 feet, and we currently have a place where the public can walk out, sit on benches and enjoy that special view. But it is not out far enough for any fishing to occur.
There was considerable discussion after Sandy about the ultimate future of the pier. The OG Fishing Club, a historic group, lost its private end section with the little building that we all recall. The OGCMA promised with no uncertainty that the pier would eventually be rebuilt, but they would not say what the future of the Fishing Club would be. The members of the Fishing Club were quite anxious about the situation because their lease is due to expire in a few years. They even offered to pay for the rebuilding, but the CMA would not consider that offer. So the CMA has remained noncommittal on the Fishing Club issue.
However, on May 16, when FEMA denied payment to rebuild the pier, the landscape changed. FEMA has committed over $2 million for our Middle Beach Boardwalk, the South End is done, the beach replenishment is done, and FEMA will pay to complete the North End. So now we learn the latest CMA policies re: the fishing pier.
In May, Mr. Gradone said that the CMA would pursue other sources of financial help for rebuilding the pier, including federal, state and charities.
Blogfinger will speak to Mr. Gradone to see if we can clear up some of these murkier questions.
Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.net
Below is a link to an article about the pier which was quite good from NJ.com below.
Happy July 5th! Independence Day parade, delayed one day, is a sparkling success.
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove events, Photographic Gallery: Ocean Grove, Photography by Paul Goldfinger, tagged e, Ocean Grove Independence Day Parade, OCEAN GROVE JULY 4 2014 PARADE on July 5, 2014| 1 Comment »
Whitefield Avenue, Ocean Grove. Independence Day parade. All photos by Paul Goldfinger @Blogfinger.net © Click on photos to enlarge.
Even though some participants who were supposed to march on July 4 could not make it for the rain-delayed parade on July 5, a large and festive crowd was on its feet to applaud this famous annual event. There were all the usual suspects including almost every major Ocean Grove group. Among the participants were bag pipers, the Summer band (marching instead of sitting), the Neptune High School Scarlet Fliers which included two marching guitar players (–reminds us of Woody Allen playing cello in the marching band in Take the Money and Run), the Days Kazoo Band which provided Sousa music that the march king would have enjoyed, politicians waving from open vehicles, and even Uncle Sam on stilts.
Ocean Grove. July 5, 2014 © Blogfinger photo
There were so many young families with kids diving for candy. I got hit in the head with a few Tootsie rolls, and even OG historian Ted Bell took a shot at me from his car. We came across Frank Panepento from Batavia, New York who was visiting his sister Rosalind. Frank, who can’t read a note, was marching up and down Whitefield Avenue, providing his own solo parade, playing patriotic music on his trumpet while waiting for the parade to start.
We met Mark and Flo Meier who were on their Main Avenue porch celebrating Flo’s birthday.
Flo and Mark Meier. Main Avenue. Blogfinger photo ©
Like Uncle Sam, she was born on the 4th of July. I was running around with Carl Hoffman of Mt. Tabor Way trying to get some good photos, along with so many others who were taking pictures. Almost instantly many of those photos were posted on Facebook. The crowd on Main Avenue, as usual, was huge, and one had to be impressed by the shear joy of it all—the music, the cheers, the colors and the excitement.
What a great holiday this year starting with the opening of our new boardwalk and now this parade. The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting must be congratulated for its huge effort in helping to bring the town together after Sandy, with fighting for Federal help in rebuilding the people’s boardwalk and finally for sponsoring this wonderfully happy July 5th parade—the epitome of life in an American small town.
Whitfield and Main. Blogfinger photo ©
Sweets were flying all around, and this trio was ready. Blogfinger photo ©
OGU. Blogfinger photo ©
A pretty girl is like a melody. The Shoreline Dance Academy. Blogfinger photo ©
Neptune HS band’s guitar section. Did Sousa ever have a guitar in his band? Who knows? Blogfinger photo ©
SOUSA “The Gladiator March”
Excitement on Main Avenue. Blogfinger photo ©
Ocean Grove Great Auditorium choir looking for an echo. ©
—Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.net
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting considers taking control of the former Neptune High School, currently operating under the name of Jersey Shore Arts Center.
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove controversies, tagged Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association wants to re-acquire the old Neptune High School site and premises on July 3, 2014| 1 Comment »
Image from the Jersey Shore Arts Center web site. No date given.
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
We learned last week that a letter had been sent from a CMA lawyer to Herb Herbst who runs the Arts Center under the auspices of the Ocean Grove Historical Preservation Society, a non profit group which was established in1997. (It should not be confused with the Ocean Grove Historical Preservation Commission which is a watchdog committee that is part of the Neptune Township efforts to maintain our historic designation in the town of Ocean Grove.)
Evidently the original 19th century deal between the CMA and the Neptune Board of Education had a revert clause that would allow the property to be returned to the CMA if the usage was not for public education. The CMA supposedly is now asserting that the Arts Center is not fulfilling that purpose and they are interested in obtaining the land and premises back under their control.
However, we have not seen the wording of the agreement, and it appears that the definition of “education” is at the heart of the dispute.
Herb Herbst refused to talk to Blogfinger on the grounds that the situation was “too delicate,” but he did give a quote to the Coaster that the CMA has “overstepped their bounds.”
According to the Arts Center lawyer, who did speak to Blogfinger, this situation now consists merely of an exchange of letters, and no lawsuits have been filed. We have seen none of the letters.
The CMA trustees have asked for the opportunity to tour the Arts Center, and Mr. Weber told us that Mr. Herbst was fine with that.
We contacted the CMA, but no information has been forthcoming.
Here is a timeline:
1. 1897: The CMA offers a leasehold agreement to the Neptune Twp. Board of Ed. to make use of the property for education.
2. 1898 : Neptune High School is built on the property at Main and Main.
3. 1980: Neptune High School closes its doors. Building progressively decays into the 1990’s.
4. 1994: The idea of turning the building into an arts center was developed by Herb Herbst with the help of State Sen. Joe Palaia. The Ocean Grove Historical Preservation Commission was formed to implement the arts project and they knew that the building had to be used for education. Herbst told Blogfinger in 2009 that he was aware of the revert clause. The Board of Ed. turned the property over to the Arts Center founders.
According to Herbst, the group received its non-profit tax exempt status by partnering for one month with the OG Fishing Club. He said that certain Ocean Grove organizations refused to help him. He credits the Chamber of Commerce and the Camp Meeting Association with being supportive.
Herbst is the President and CEO of the arts center. There is a board of trustees and a lady’s auxiliary.
5. Over the years a great deal of money was raised along with the sweat equity provided by many volunteer workers. The building was in terrible condition in 1994, but it has now been restored, adding millions of dollars to its value.
The JSAC is busy offering crafts, art classes, dance lessons, shows, concerts and a soon to be opened culinary school.
Meanwhile, there are a number of fascinating and unique aspects to this story, not the least of which is the question of why the Camp Meeting Association is now reaching for this property. Speculation has already begun, but let’s see what emerges.
Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Celebrates its Fundraising Success
Posted in Blogfinger Presents, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, Ocean Grove events, tagged Eric Houghtaling, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting thanks Together campaign, Ocean Grove thank you celebration, Sen. Jennifer Beck on November 4, 2013| 2 Comments »
Youth Temple. Ocean Grove, NJ. Nov. 3, 2013. Paul Goldfinger photo ©
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
The Together Campaign was celebrating today at the Youth Temple in Ocean Grove, New Jersey. The Campaign, sponsored by the OGCMA, had reached a goal of $1.5 million, and a large crowd assembled for cake, coffee and congratulations all around.
Everyone who played a key roll in the effort was thanked by top officials of the CMA. Once again Ralph delCampo and Bill Bailey reported on the current state of the Sandy recovery. Ralph told the audience that the $1.5 million would only cover 25% of the costs of rebuilding the boardwalk. He repeated the promise that the Middle Beach boardwalk would be completed by Memorial Day, “one way or another.” He explained that there were a number of funding options available if FEMA doesn’t work out, but the CMA team is still hopeful that FEMA will come through. However, whether the current appeal to FEMA is accepted or rejected, Ralph wants “clarity” so that we can move in ernest down another road if needed.
Bill Bailey was ecstatic in reporting that, after one year, every single bit of the old boardwalk was now gone. All that remains is to build a new beachfront.
Mayor Eric Houghtaling of Neptune Township celebrates with coffee and cake a moment before a Together lady nearly knocks him over. Blogfinger action photos. ©
A number of prominent politicians were present including Neptune Committeemen Dr. Michael Brantley, Mayor Eric Houghtaling, and Randy Bishop. State Senator Jennifer Beck was back with her winning smile. None of the politicians got to speak, but they did hear Ralph praise them for their exceptional help in our quest for funding. He also mentioned Assemblywomen Caroline Casagrande and Mary Pat Angelini, Congressman Chris Smith and Governor Chris Christie.
State Senator Jennifer Beck takes a break from Trenton to show her support in the Grove. The guy behind her is stealing her cake. Blogfinger action photos ©
Rev. David Cotton, the Co-Chair of the Together Campaign and a member of the CMA Board of Trustees, indicated that they would appreciate more contributions to keep the cash momentum going.
As for the cake, it was very good–chocolate or vanilla, a symbol that the OGCMA was keeping its options open.
There were no alcohol, dancing or smoking, but there were hymns and prayers including a reading from the Old Testament by OGU Co-Chair Luisa Paster. A few members of the audience got to tell the group about how special the town of Ocean Grove is.
Clearly, the CMA of 2013 is looking for love in all the right places.
“THANKS A MILLION” by Louis Armstrong and his orchestra. Album: “There Goes My Attraction—-original recordings 1935-1939
“You made a million dreams come true
and so I’m saying thanks a million to you”
Annual Camp Meeting Association public meeting attracts SRO crowd, and here are the highlights :
Posted in Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, tagged OGCMA Labor Day meeting on September 2, 2013|
Labor Day meeting of the OGCMA. Paul Goldfinger photo © Sept. 2, 2013. Left click to make the group larger.
By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
Monday, September 2, 2013. Youth Temple. Ocean Grove.
The meeting took two hours, and the OGCMA managed to cram a ton of information into that time. If you check the links to our interview with interim COO Ralph delCampo from last week, you will find some of the same information already provided and not repeated below concerning FEMA and Mr. delCampo’s resignation. However, there is some slight overlap, because overlap is better than underlap.
8/28/13 CMA interview on Blogfinger
Interim COO to leave in November
21 speakers came to the podium to discuss a wide ranging list of topics covering everything from money in the bank to rosa rugosa in the dunes. There was something for everybody, and Dr. Dale Whilden and Mr. Ralph delCampo made sure that nothing in between was left out.
1. Search for a COO. The CMA has hired a search firm, The Dingman Company, that specializes in non-profits and Christian organizations. Final interviews will be in October, and they hope to have a decision by end 2013.
2. Music programming: The Choir Festival has been experiencing declining attendance, but all the beach towns have had reduced revenues and visitors this past summer. Saturday night programs have had a declining attendance (28,780 in 2008, 20,076 in 2012, and 19, 068 in 2013.) Better luck next year. The Raise the Roof concert raised more than the roof—they made $45,000 for the Together Fund (go Shelley!)
3. Jason Tramm, Music Director,. This is his 7th season, and he remains committed to “top level” choir and instrumental programs. He asked the choir members to stand, but not sing. They got a round of applause anyhow. Jason would like more singing members for the choir. He is very optimistic about our amazing music programming in the Grove. He said, “Music soothes the heart and brings us together.”
4. Jack: If you say “Jack” in Neptune, they think of Nicholson, but if you say “Jack” in OG, they think Green. So Jack Green, the head of operations, offered the understatement of the century when he said, “We’ve had a little excitement this year.” He reported on the Auditorium roof and said that they are 8 weeks away from getting the materials to finish the job.
5. Lighting at the beachfront: This subject proved to be the most underestimated topic on the agenda. Mr. Bailey explained that extensive new work has begun, and we will soon see significant progress in that department. This includes new infrastructure work on wiring and installation of new poles with special lighting at McClintock, Olin, Heck and the North End. Old lights will be removed.
6. Army Corps of Engineers: They will be landing on our beaches around November. They will return the beach to pre-Sandy sandy levels and will bring more sand in order to rebuild the dunes. We will be part of a continuous protective dune array along our Jersey coastline. Funding is 100% from the Feds and NJ DEP. Meanwhile the CMA will construct winter berms on the beach.
7. Pier. An anonymous donor has offered a donation to extend the pier another 30 feet by using existing pilings, but the job will be more complicated that just installing the walking surface. I guess we’ll be bringing back those guys from American Fence Co again. It’s groundhog day for them.
8. FEMA . See our links above. The second appeal was submitted on July 31 (To be exact, this is the third time we “make our case” to FEMA. There was the original application and then two appeals.)
Ralph delCampo and an OG delegation will go to Washington, DC soon for a “face to face” with FEMA before their decision is made. Mr. delCampo says that our appeal is “multi-faceted” as it introduces the OG boardwalk not as a recreational venue but a necessary place for “safety, security and emergency management services.” He says that he and his consultants and colleagues are feeling “confident and optimistic” but they will need “persistence, patience, and perseverance” A decision from FEMA is expected around Thanksgiving.
Ralph reiterated that the CMA will apply for all grants that are available including some that they will apply for in September from the NJDOT that could be worth $200,000 to $400,000.00. They are also investigating funding from the NJ Economic Development Authority.
9. What to call Mr. delCampo. He publicly announced that he likes informality, because “Ralph” is how he is known in the hood. If you go on the fishing pier and say “Ralph” people will think of the fisherman. But if you are around Auditorium Square and say “Ralph” people will think of a two hour meeting and they will feel sleepy.
9. Beach Report: Beach badge sales are down somewhat, as expected. For example season badges are down 6.5% while dailies are down 13.3%, however, revenues are up “a bit”( along with short shorts) due to increased badge fees and discounts for small bikinis.
10. CMA finances: A complicated presentation was delivered by Peter Herr who said that the practical yearly revenue was $4.2 million, but that the expenses were $ 4.9 million–a “big loss” in 2012. They will be working on that issue during the rest of 2013 to come up with creative solutions to “these challenges.” During the meeting, the biggest challenge was staying alert for this part.
11. Contributions other than for the Together fund. Judy Soltis of the CMA Board said that they are still depending on offerings and contributions for their every-day operations, and she hoped that the CMA contributors will continue that giving. So far, that is going well, but most of the giving occurs near year end.
12. Together Fund: They are almost at their goal of $1.5 million, but they still need $187,973.00. Go buy a blue T-shirt (and also write a check). Rev. David Cotton said that the Fund kept all its promises about transparency and honoring designated contributions. Remember that the money from this fundraising effort will go for the boardwalk, Thornley Chapel and the GA roof.
He hoped that those who might be focusing on “past history” would “take a look at things a little differently” and support the Together Fund for the benefit of rebuilding Ocean Grove. There will be a telephone campaign on Friday.
The plan is to receive $2.25 million from the Feds for the beachfront, which would be the 75% that the CMA was originally hoping for. The total cost for the boardwalk is still estimated at $3 million. The part that the Fund will provide would be $750,000.00 Some towns have received up to 90% from FEMA.
13. Ushers: 10,000 man hours of service at 180 events by the 210 ushers. That’s a lot of work, plus they need to keep their white pants clean.
14. Refreshment crew: According to Karen Adams, they “work and work and work.” They also made $60,000 for the benefit of OG.
15. Beautification: Joan Knust described the “terrifying and destructive force of nature” that tore up the beds, urns and planters around town. Her team of workers came back strong with hard work, dedication, and beautiful floral displays around town.
16. Ladies Auxiliary: This dedicated group gave $20,000 to the Together Fund, along with other contributions around the Grove
17. Neptune Township: In response to a question , Mr. delCampo said, “We have an exceptionally good relationship with Neptune Township.”
18. North End development: In response to a question, Dr. Whilden said, “That project is on temporary hold. The developers are looking at the effects of the storm on the infrastructure in that area.”
19. Loose ends:
One speaker said that the CMA was striving to become a “year round ministry.”
The sequence of construction will start with the Middle Beach (Embury to McClintock); then Seaview to the white (dollar store) building at the north end; next the pier; and last the North End from the white building north. The construction will look like the work already done at the South End. Old pilings will be removed.
Political help. Ralph mentioned quite a few elected officials who are helping (see the link above) but he singled out Mayor Houghtaling of Neptune Township who was at the meeting and Rep. Chris Smith who has been “absolutely incredible in his support.”
Financing the GA roof: $1 million will be paid by insurance . $100,000 by the CMA.
Q & A: Just a few plain vanilla questions. No rocky road.
And this is for our Music Man—Maestro Jason Tramm:
Award winner by Paul Goldfinger. Appeared in an internationally published calendar. © Orlando, Florida.
ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST OF THE MUSIC MAN STARRING ROBERT PRESTON:
Letter to the Editor: Camp Meeting Association participation in township discussions.
Posted in Blogfinger Presents, Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association Activity, tagged Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association comments on Blogfinger on April 26, 2014| 11 Comments »
To the Editor:
(This comment relates to a quote on Blogfinger from J.P. Gradone, COO of the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, regarding the route to be taken through Ocean Grove by the NJ Marathon tomorrow.)
“It is certainly good to see Mr. Gradone participating in the blog. One hopes he continues on critical issues facing Ocean Grove. And wouldn’t it be advantageous to all if the OG Homeowners Association offered a spot on the agenda at its monthly meetings–and he accepted ?”
I.M. RADAR
Ocean Grove, NJ, April 26, 2014
The writer is a resident of Ocean Grove who comments on Blogfinger using the pseudonym I.M. Radar.
Editor’s Note: Blogfinger has an excellent relationship with the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association regarding news and information in the Grove. Ever since Sandy, the OGCMA has been doing everything in its power to make sure that everyone in town knows what’s going on regarding Sandy issues and other matters. They sponsor regular group meetings with all the important organizations in Ocean Grove in order to let us know the latest news, especially regarding the financing and rebuilding of the beachfront.
When Blogfinger needs to know something that the OGCMA knows about, they are always willing to help us spread the word. Last year, they provided invaluable resources and financing in bringing the Blogfinger Film Festival to the Grove, thus affording film students from six area universities a chance to show their work.
So I want to thank Ralph delCampo, Dale Whilden, Bill Bailey, Shelly Belusar and JP Gradone for their input to Blogfinger. I would point out that these CMA officials do not actually comment directly to BF. Their method is usually to contact us by phone, in person or by email, and then we might translate those conversations into posts or actual comments, as we did with the marathon information.
Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger
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