A Heartfelt Thank You

As we approach Election Day, we’re deeply grateful to everyone who’s been part of this journey with us. Running for council has been an honor of a lifetime, and sharing this journey with the residents of Point Pleasant Beach has truly been a privilege. This election feels like a defining moment for Point Pleasant Beach, and being on the ballot right now is a responsibility we don’t take lightly and the people we’ve met—neighbors, friends, and supporters—have reminded us every day why we’re here.

This campaign has felt different, and we’re proud of that. In a time when politics can be so divisive, we’ve focused on building a positive, respectful, and forward-looking race. At the recent candidate forum, all six of us stood together, shared ideas, and had honest discussions about our visions for this town. We agreed, we disagreed, but we listened to each other and treated each other with respect. It was a real reminder that, even when we see things differently, we all want what’s best for Point Pleasant Beach.

To everyone who’s been part of this campaign—our volunteers, friends, families, and everyone who believes in what we’re trying to achieve—thank you. Your energy, whether through knocking on doors, helping with events, or spreading the word, has made all the difference. We truly couldn’t have done it without you.

As we look toward the future, we’re ready to serve with the same dedication and respect we’ve tried to bring to this campaign. Thank you, Point Pleasant Beach, for trusting us, for supporting us, and for believing in a brighter future. Here’s to everything we can accomplish together.

— Team Beach

Twelve Years On: How Sandy Changed Us

Today, as I look back on photos of my flooded backyard, my dad wading through knee-deep water, I’m reminded of the force of Hurricane Sandy that swept through Point Pleasant Beach twelve years ago. The streets around Lake of the Lilies, usually a quiet neighborhood, looked more like rivers than roads, swallowed by murky water as far as the eye could see. For those who lived through it, Sandy isn’t just a distant memory. It’s a vivid reminder of how quickly everything familiar can be torn away and how we, as a community, can build back stronger.

One photo I have shows a small, half-submerged hot tub utility box with a cabbage leaf and bits of debris clinging to it. It’s a surreal, almost humorous detail amid the wreckage. It’s the kind of strange sight that you only notice in the aftermath of something big, something overwhelming. And yet, it was this strange combination of everyday items turned unfamiliar by disaster that so many of us remember. Sandy left nothing untouched and no piece of infrastructure too small to feel her impact.

Another photo shows the sand that filled our streets, piled up in what used to be our front yards, as if the beach had moved inland. Elizabeth Avenue, a street lined with family homes, looked like the aftermath of a desert storm, with sand and debris strewn across it. This wasn’t just flooding. It was a reshaping of our landscape, a visceral reminder of nature’s power to alter the familiar into something almost unrecognizable.

Resilience: Building on What We Have

One of the ways we’ve fortified our community since Sandy is by implementing a Geographic Information System, or GIS. This system is essentially a digital map that combines detailed geographic data with layers of critical information, allowing us to see where our town’s vulnerabilities lie. Point Pleasant Beach initially adopted the GIS system to track infrastructure like roads, storm drains, and flood zones, helping us identify high-risk areas and prioritize repairs. Think of it as a powerful tool that helps us keep an eye on the health of our town’s defenses and plan better for the future.

In the years since Sandy, we’ve made progress, but the memories of these images—the flooded streets, the wrecked backyards, the familiar turned foreign—have kept us moving forward with urgency. Resilience in Point Pleasant Beach is not just about constructing new barriers. It’s about using the resources we already have more effectively. Imagine if we harnessed our existing GIS database to model flood impacts based on incoming weather and tidal conditions. This would allow us to predict areas likely to flood and alert residents ahead of time. It’s not just about responding faster—it’s about being prepared, and that’s something we can achieve with smart, data-driven solutions.

By integrating predictive modeling with our GIS system, we could protect our town more effectively while keeping costs manageable. This is about using what we already have to keep our community safe.

Affordable, Transparent Solutions for Everyone

Technology doesn’t have to be expensive to make a difference. One low-cost improvement we could make is creating a publicly accessible GIS portal where residents can view flood zones, evacuation routes, and recent infrastructure upgrades. This transparency builds trust and helps everyone make informed decisions, particularly in flood-prone areas.

Imagine having that information at your fingertips—whether you’re a homeowner preparing for a storm, a business owner planning for the season, or a new resident getting to know the area. It’s an affordable step that empowers our whole community.

Why Sandy Still Matters Today

Sandy isn’t just a memory. It’s a lesson in resilience, a reminder that while we can’t control the storms, we can control how we prepare for them. By leveraging the tools we already have, we’re not just reacting to the past. We’re actively shaping our future.

Today, let’s honor Sandy by continuing the work she started. Here’s to Point Pleasant Beach—a town that has weathered storms, adapted, and always looks ahead. Together, we’re not just facing the future. We’re building it, one data point at a time.

Dear Larry:

So, Larry Schwartz has been at it again. Out there throwing shade at me and Team Beach in the Ocean Star. But honestly, I’m not here to play “who can write the longest letter to the editor.” I have actual work to do—like, you know, running for council.

Larry, we need to talk.

I’m going to cut to the chase: this whole back-and-forth you’ve got going? It’s not really about 5G, and it’s definitely not about me not knowing the details of some investigation. Nope, this feels more like a personal vendetta. You want to feel heard, right? Well, congrats—you’ve got my attention.

I’m all ears.

If you’ve got something you really need to say, we don’t have to do this dance through letters and social media posts. We’re adults, so how about we sit down and talk like it? Face-to-face. I’m not running from a conversation.

On Your Letter…

Let me be blunt: your letter paints me like I’m sitting around twiddling my thumbs, clueless. And that’s cute, but it’s also dead wrong. What you think is avoidance or ignorance is actually me doing the work. I don’t leap to conclusions or throw out half-baked ideas. I get the facts, I ask the questions, and then I make a decision. Wild concept, right?

And let’s be real here: Point Pleasant Beach is a small town. We’re neighbors, Larry. So why are you acting like we’re starring in some melodrama? I mean, I’d probably watch that show, but come on—this isn’t it.

Here’s the Deal.

You don’t need to keep score in the court of public opinion (though, let’s be honest, your council meeting tirades are wearing on everyones patience). What matters is that we’ve got real issues to handle, and I’m here to actually do something about it. Leaders who listen, understand, and take action? That’s what Point Pleasant Beach needs. And that’s exactly what I’m offering.

So, Larry, whenever you’re ready to stop throwing jabs from the sidelines, let me know. We’ll talk. Until then, I’ve got an election to focus on.

Maggie Doucette

Council Meetings 2.0: Solutions for a Smoother Experience

There’s something oddly fascinating about watching a council meeting unfold in real time—especially when you're sitting in the audience, pondering whether you will be in that fray yourself someday. After some gentle coaxing and more than a few hints from my Team Beach running mates EJ and Cathy, I was off to attend my first Council meeting at Borough Hall. Normally, I watch these meetings via the Town’s YouTube Channel, comfortably tucked away at home. But last night, as I stepped into the harsh fluorescent light of reality, I found myself thinking: 'Surely there is a way to make this experience better for everyone involved?’

I’d like to start by acknowledging how tough it is to put yourself out there in public service, whether on the Council, employed by the Borough, or even volunteering on a committee. For these folks it’s not just about making decisions, they must listen to a wide range of passionate, and sometimes opposing, viewpoints, all while staying calm and collected. Whether you’re already on the council or running for a seat like I am with EJ Geiger and Cathy Sogorka, it’s clear that balancing the needs of the community, the complexities of policy, and the pressure of making the right call is no easy task. That said, there are a few ways we could make these meetings more accessible, efficient, and productive for everyone—council members, employees, and residents alike.

Let’s Talk Tech

The first thing that I’ll mention, ironically was not rom last night's meeting, but from the YouTube live stream I would normally watch from home. It’s truly awesome that residents can tune in to the live streams, but the high-pitched feedback and technical glitches make it almost unwatchable. And after the meeting is over, good luck finding it again. The streams aren’t organized in a way that makes it easy to track down specific meetings or topics. A simple fix? We could organize the streams into playlists by date or topic, add clear titles that highlight key agenda items, and include timestamps for the major discussions. Even better, we could use YouTube’s chapters feature to let viewers jump right to the parts they care about most. Small changes, big differences.

Other towns, like Princeton, have implemented smooth, accessible live streams where residents can participate from home by submitting questions ahead of time or in real-time. We could explore using similar software or platforms to make our meetings more engaging and efficient. A small investment in better audio-visual equipment—clear mics, organized streaming, and maybe even an option for live interaction—would go a long way. Let’s make it easy for people to follow along without having to put their hearing at risk.

More Voices, Not Fewer

Some might worry that making it easier to participate remotely would mean fewer people showing up in person. But in reality, this would likely give even more people a chance to be heard, especially those who can’t always make it to the meetings— caregivers, people with demanding jobs, seniors who don’t like driving at night. By allowing residents to participate from home, we ensure everyone has a voice. For those who do attend in person, this system could actually free up more time. If more questions are submitted from home, then there will be less people waiting for the microphone to ask one in person.

Structured Public Participation

This isn’t about blaming anyone. The reality is, council meetings are complex, and making things run smoothly is no small task. But it’s also not impossible. A more structured format—where detailed questions that may require pulling files or records are submitted in advance and the more straightforward, easy-to-answer questions are handled live—would make things more efficient for council members and residents alike.

And while we’re talking solutions, let’s give a shout-out to the unsung heroes behind the scenes: Borough Administrator Christine Riehl, Borough Attorney Michael Collins and Borough Clerk Eileen Farrell. These three have their hands full keeping things running, from fielding questions and explaining the details to ensuring every decision is legally sound. If there’s anyone in the room making sure the council can focus on the important stuff, it’s one of them.

Bringing in the Next Generation

I’d like to end this post by sharing some exciting news. The next generation is stepping up, and I had the honor of meeting two new interns, Celia and Matilda, from Point Pleasant Beach High School, who are eager to learn about local government. These students are our future, and it’s incredible to see them getting involved at such a young age. In fact, if anyone’s going to fix that YouTube feedback issue, it’s probably going to be them!

Five Poles, $300K: Is This What ‘Fiscal Responsibility’ Looks Like?

Here we are again, facing yet another situation where the current council—controlled by the party of “fiscal responsibility”—is asking us to spend $300,000 of taxpayer money to fix a preventable mistake. This time, over five 5G poles hastily installed back in June, and now—surprise, surprise—they have to come down. At $60,000 per pole, you have to ask: Is this what "fiscal responsibility" looks like these days?

For years, we’ve been told by the republican-dominated council that they’re the ones who can manage our budget, that they’re the responsible ones, that we can trust them with the town’s finances. And yet, here we are, about to fork over hundreds of thousands of dollars to undo a problem they created.

Mistakes happen—we all understand that. But when rushed decisions become a pattern, it's the taxpayers who end up paying the price. First, the poles were installed without enough consideration, and now we're footing the bill to remove them. And this isn't a small bill—$100,000 this year and $200,000 next year, just to make this go away.

Imagine what $300,000 could have done for Point Pleasant Beach—improving parks, supporting local businesses, or strengthening our infrastructure—projects that directly benefit residents. That money could have funded a grant for the town’s new Business Improvement District (BID), helping local shops and restaurants with facade improvements, digital marketing, or even interest-free loans. Or improving the “Shop Local" program’s point-of-sale issues and encouraging residents and visitors to spend locally and support our downtown?

We’ve been patient, hoping that the current leadership knows what they’re doing. But this is the same story, time and again. Decisions are rushed, the community’s voice is overlooked, and when things go wrong, it’s the taxpayers who are left to pick up the tab.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about one decision—it’s a pattern of mismanagement that Point Pleasant Beach can no longer afford. The stakes are too high, and we need leadership that can get it right the first time. Let’s ensure our town's future is in the hands of those who truly understand the meaning of responsibility.

In Defense of Pickleball: A People-Centered Perspective (Yes, I'm Talking About Pickleball Again!)

By Cathy Sogorka

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Ah, pickleball. The sport that’s taken over retirees’ lives, filled up local courts, and, let’s be honest, given tennis players a real run for their money. It’s a game with the spunk of ping-pong, the agility of badminton, and the audacity to claim the same courts as tennis. But if you think pickleball is just a quaint pastime for the over-60 crowd, let me set the record straight.

I’m Cathy Sogorka, and I’m not your run-of-the-mill political candidate. I’m a proud champion of the underdogs, and yes, I’m a relentless advocate for pickleball—and for the community I love. Raised in a bipartisan family where political debate was more common than breakfast cereal, I learned early on the value of listening to all sides before planting my own flag. It’s probably why I’m so passionate about defending pickleball—a sport that, like me, knows how to hold its own in a world of bigger, louder games.

And let's not forget, as someone who spent over three decades teaching physical education, I’ve seen firsthand how recreational activities like pickleball can transform lives. It’s not just about the activity it’s about the connections we make, the camaraderie that builds when we come together for a little friendly competition.

When I spoke out about the need for more pickleball courts at recent council meetings, some people rolled their eyes. "Pickleball?" they teased. "Is this really the most pressing issue facing our town?" But here’s where they’re missing the point. For me, pickleball isn’t just a game—it’s a symbol of everything I stand for: community, the outdoors, and rooting for the underdogs.

Pickleball courts are where neighbors become friends, where generations collide in the best way possible, and where everyone—regardless of age or athletic ability—gets a fair shot. It’s a sport that’s as much about strategy as it is about heart, and it’s bringing people together in ways that few other activities can. In a world that’s increasingly divided, I see these courts as tiny battlegrounds for unity, places where the walls between us come down, one swing at a time.

And while pickleball is a passion of mine, my dedication to this community goes well beyond the courts. I’ve devoted years to serving as a Commissioner on the Environmental Commission and leading the Sustainable Jersey Green Team. Whether it’s advocating for more green spaces or walking the streets to gather signatures for a referendum to establish the Open Space Committee, I’ve always believed in protecting our town’s natural beauty and ensuring we have spaces where everyone can play, breathe, and feel proud to call Point Pleasant Beach home.

That’s why my advocacy for pickleball isn’t just about the game itself—it’s about something much bigger. It’s a declaration that every resident in Point Pleasant Beach matters, whether they’re swinging a paddle or casting a vote. It’s about making sure even the seemingly small issues get the attention they deserve, because, as I’ve learned over the years, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.

So, the next time someone dismisses pickleball as just a fad, remember this: The courts might be small, the paddles might be light, but the impact? It’s anything but insignificant. And if you’re still not convinced, just think of me—stepping onto the political court with the same determination I bring to every game, ready to serve up some serious change.

In the end, it’s not just about pickleball. It’s about what pickleball represents: the belief that every voice deserves to be heard, every game deserves to be played, and every underdog deserves a chance to win. And with me, you’ve got a champion who’s not just fighting for the court, but for every one of us who’s ever needed a teammate.

So, grab a paddle, Point Pleasant Beach. With me on your side, we’re all in the game—and the best is yet to come.

Ethics: A Teachable Moment

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As candidates for Borough Council, we wanted to share some thoughts on a topic that has recently sparked much conversation in our community—the introduction of the ethics ordinance at the last council meeting. This is a pivotal issue, and we believe it's one worth exploring together. We see this moment not just as a challenge but as an opportunity—a teachable moment.

Before diving into the merits of the ordinance, it’s essential that we are all on the same page as far as state vs. local ethics code. A bit of background can help frame why this conversation is so important.

In 1991, the state of New Jersey established the Local Government Ethics Law (LGEL), which sets standards for public officials to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure transparent decision-making. However, these guidelines are broad and implementing them at a local level requires more nuanced, community-specific oversight.

What are Municipal Ethics Boards and What Role Does State Law Play?

To fully appreciate the importance of an ethics board, it's helpful to understand what it is and how it works alongside the existing law (LGEL) in New Jersey.

A municipal ethics board is a local body dedicated to overseeing the ethical conduct of government officials and employees. The state law provides the foundational framework which aims to ensure that public officials act with integrity, avoid conflicts of interest, and maintain public trust. This law applies to almost everyone, from elected officials to appointed members of commissions to senior employees. It prohibits using public office for personal gain, mandates transparency through financial disclosures, and sets clear standards for ethical behavior in government.

Understanding the Purpose of the Point Beach Ethics Ordinance

Let’s start with the basics. The ethics ordinance introduced aims to establish one of these ethics boards for Point Pleasant Beach. This board would oversee the creation of a code of ethics and ensure our local government operates transparently, fairly, and with integrity. At its core, it would be established to rebuild trust between the government and its citizens—trust that every decision made is in the best interest of our community.

This ethics board would act as a localized extension of the principles established by LGEL. In practice, this means the board would handle complaints, investigate potential ethical violations, provide advisory opinions, and conduct ethics training to help everyone understand their responsibilities.

We want to take a moment to commend Councilman Michael Ramos for his commitment to ethical governance. His initiative to propose an ethics board shows a sincere dedication to transparency and accountability, values we can all support, regardless of our political affiliations.

The Importance of Preparation and Engagement

The recent council meeting demonstrated something important—something that can serve as a teachable moment for us all. While the introduction of the ethics ordinance was well-intentioned, the process left much to be desired. The proposal seemed rushed, and there wasn't enough time for thorough review and public input. This led to confusion and concern among council members and residents alike. However disconcerting the confusion, it was at least a familiar theme for the residents.

Here’s where we see an opportunity for growth. Instead of viewing this as a setback, let’s see it as a chance to improve how we introduce and discuss important initiatives in our town. Good governance isn’t just about passing ordinances, it’s about how we pass them. It’s about building consensus and ensuring transparency every step of the way.

Navigating Challenges with Strategic Planning

While the idea of establishing an ethics board is promising, it's important to approach this step with caution and care. Creating such a board involves careful planning and clear guidelines to ensure it operates fairly and effectively for our town. We must also be aware of the potential challenges, such as the risk of politicization or misuse, where the board could be perceived as a tool for political gain rather than a means to promote ethical behavior.

Additionally, we need to ensure that the board has adequate resources and independence to function without undue influence, and that its members are selected based on their integrity and commitment to the community, not political affiliations. By being aware of these cautions and addressing them proactively, we can build a robust ethics program that truly serves the best interests of Point Pleasant Beach.

This is a chance for us to reflect and grow as a community. Let’s take this opportunity to build a more connected and transparent Point Pleasant Beach. We believe it is possible to create a local government that truly represents and serves all of us.

With dedication to our community,


Maggie Doucette,
EJ Geiger, &
Cathy Sogorka
Team Beach For Point Beach Council

Team Beach Statement on Channel Drive Proposal

Team Beach appreciates the Borough's effort to keep residents informed about the proposed public park on Channel Drive. As the Borough seems to agree, transparency is key to helping our community make well-informed decisions. And part of being transparent means sharing all the important details. We feel these mailed flyers missed the mark.

The Borough's efforts fell short in effectively communicating this project to the community. The last-minute distribution of flyers lacks crucial details, such as expected Green Acres grant amounts, potential funding through the NJ Blue Acres Program, specific space requirements, design plans, and an economic impact assessment. These details are vital for residents to understand the scope and impact of the project fully.

Team Beach believes in spending taxpayer money wisely. To avoid wasteful spending and ensure smart investments that benefit our community, residents must be given all the information. This balance is crucial for maintaining public trust and demonstrating responsible financial management.

Therefore, we call on the Borough for more detailed information on the project. The flyer lacks critical details, including:

1. Grant Funding Amounts: While the flyer mentions the intention to apply for funding through the New Jersey Green Acres Program, it does not provide information on the expected grant amounts or the likelihood of receiving these funds. In addition, there is no mention of potential funding through the NJ Blue Acres Program. Has the Borough considered this option? NJ Blue Acres funding could provide additional financial support, especially for properties that are prone to flooding.

2. Tax Levy Changes: The projected annual tax impact of $91 for the next 25 years on an average home is noted, but the flyer does not explain potential changes to that figure if we are awarded funding.

3. Space Requirements: There is no mention of the specific space requirements or design plans for the proposed park, which are crucial for residents to understand the scope and impact of the project. Do we need all the space proposed? Would it be more economical to use only portions of it?

4. Additional Costs: Beyond the initial $17 million cost, residents should be informed of any additional costs related to maintenance, development, or potential unforeseen expenses associated with the park, like contamination issues.

We urge the Borough to provide comprehensive details on these points to ensure that all residents can make well-informed decisions and provide meaningful feedback by the August 9th deadline.

We remain committed to advocating for clear and thorough communication on all community projects.

Sincerely,

Maggie Doucette
Cathy Sogorka
EJ Geiger

TEAM BEACH FOR COUNCIL

Embracing Purpose: My Journey with Best Day

People often ask me what I do in my spare time, and it's a question that always brings a smile to my face. For the past several years, I have had the privilege of working with special needs children through an incredible organization called Best Day. This experience has profoundly shaped my outlook on life and has given me a renewed sense of purpose.

Best Day’s mission is simple yet powerful: to provide special needs children with the best day ever at the beach. The New Jersey Chapter, where I volunteer, plans six beach days every summer, mobilizing hundreds of volunteer hours to ensure these kids have an unforgettable experience. From modified wheelchairs to specialized surfboards and boogie boards, every detail is meticulously planned to create a safe and joyous environment.

On these beach days, teams of experienced surfers take the children out into the waves, helping them catch a wave in a safe and friendly atmosphere. The beach buddies, who spend their time playing in the sand and just being kids, create an atmosphere of pure joy. The smiles, high fives, and laughter from the children make even the cold water and cloudy days worthwhile.

Safety is paramount at Best Day. The organization provides wetsuits, helmets, and life vests to ensure the children are safe while having fun. Local organizations generously donate food, and every participant receives a medal at the end of the day. Sometimes, superheroes even make an appearance, adding an extra layer of magic to the day.

Volunteering with Best Day has shown me the true essence of community and purpose. It’s about coming together to support one another, creating moments of joy, and dedicating ourselves to something greater than ourselves. The gratitude I feel from being part of this initiative is immense, and it fuels my purpose as a town council candidate. I believe that fostering a community where everyone can thrive and experience their own “best day” is paramount.

If you have the time, I encourage you to join us as a volunteer. The impact you can make in a child’s life is immeasurable, and the fulfillment you’ll feel is beyond words. Together, we can create a community that truly embodies the spirit of purpose.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

Sincerely,

EJ Geiger

Team Beach: Statement on Political Violence at Trump Rally

Team Beach is deeply saddened and alarmed by the news of gunshots fired at former President Trump's rally in Butler, PA today. Political violence is a grave threat to our democracy. No candidate, regardless of their party, should ever face danger while speaking to the public.

We strongly condemn this violent act and urge our community to come together to support peaceful, democratic engagement. Running for office takes immense courage. Candidates step into the public eye and take on significant personal risks. This incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring the safety of all candidates and their supporters.

This tragic event should serve as a wake-up call. We need to do more than hope for a better future, we must take concrete steps to achieve it. We must learn from this incident and work diligently to create a safe and respectful political environment. Let’s engage in open dialogue, foster understanding, and build a community where everyone feels secure and valued.

In these challenging times, let’s unite and commit to making our town a place where democracy can thrive without fear. By working together, we can ensure that every voice is heard, and that political participation is safe for all.

-Team Beach

Building Bridges: How Team Beach Connects with Community

At Team Beach, we believe that the heart of our campaign is our community. Last night, we hosted our first Meet and Greet, and it was a resounding success. The turnout was incredible, surpassing our expectations. We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and engagement we received.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful hosts, Kathe and Greg Galinskie, for opening their beautiful home to us. Their generosity and hospitality created the perfect atmosphere for our gathering, showcasing the warmth and community spirit that make Point Pleasant Beach so special.

Last night’s Meet and Greet was more than just an event, it was the beginning of a meaningful dialogue. This open exchange is vital for building a stronger, more connected community. The insights and feedback we gathered will guide our efforts and shape our policies. Your voices matter, and we are here to ensure they are heard.

This event was just the first step. Team Beach will continue to host events and informal gatherings, additionally you may catch us in the coming months as we knock on doors. Our goal is to build bridges, not only between us and the community but also among residents, creating a united and vibrant Point Pleasant Beach.

Thank you for joining us and for your continued support. Together, we can achieve great things. Stay connected, stay engaged, and let’s keep building a better future for Point Pleasant Beach, one conversation at a time.

With Gratitude,
Team Beach

Building community, one conversation at a time!

Celebrating Resilience and Unity: A Fourth of July Reflection

As we gather to celebrate Independence Day in Point Pleasant Beach, it's a perfect moment to reflect on our community's history and the lessons we can draw from the American Revolution.

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Did you know that what is now Ocean County saw about 70 conflicts during the Revolutionary War? The chaos of war allowed the people here to challenge their places in society, often shifting allegiances between patriots, loyalists, and Quakers based on personal grudges, opportunities, and moral convictions.

Despite these divisions, the community found ways to coexist and ultimately thrive. During the American Revolution, community dialogue was essential in bridging the gaps between all allowing them to navigate their differences and find common ground. Similarly, today, Point Beach remains a diverse and vibrant community. By embracing our differences and working towards common goals, we can begin to heal divisions and strengthen our town.

Establishing community dialogue forums, as our predecessors did, where residents come together to discuss special or pressing issues could be a powerful way to foster understanding and build trust. The people of Ocean County faced tremendous adversity during the Revolution but showed remarkable resilience. This resilience is still a hallmark of our community.

One of Team Beach’s favorite lessons from the Revolutionary War has to do with Jersey Shore Privateers. Privateers were local sailors, skilled in navigating the tricky sandbars and backchannels of the Jersey Shore. They conducted raids and ambushed enemy encampments. They demonstrated incredible courage and ingenuity.

Similarly, Point Beach is full of innovative thinkers and brave individuals ready to tackle the trickiest community issues. As we face modern challenges, from environmental issues to economic shifts, we can draw strength from their example.

As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let's remember our rich history and the enduring spirit of its people. By reflecting on the past, we can find inspiration to build a stronger, more united, and resilient community. Let's embrace these values as we look forward to a bright future for Point Beach.

Happy Fourth of July from Team Beach!

A Transparent Response: Addressing Larry Schwartz’s Concerns

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

We hope this message finds you well. As your Team Beach candidates—EJ Geiger, Cathy Sogorka, and Maggie Doucette—we feel it’s important to address recent concerns raised by Larry Schwartz in his letter to the editor in the June 28th issue of the Ocean Star. We believe in transparency, accountability, and the power of open dialogue, so we want to share our perspective on these issues directly with you.

Transparency and 5G Deployment

One of the key points in Larry's letter was questioning why EJ Geiger didn’t campaign on the 5G deployment issue during his previous run for council. The answer is straightforward: ordinance 2021-22 was approved regarding the 5G deployment and was discussed in a council session. Ordinance 2021-22 was written by the borough attorney which residents were told would allow the town to have input into the location of aesthetics of the proposed 5G deployment. This ordinance contained 33 proposed site locations. In April of 2021 the governing body executed a right-of-way agreement with Munisite for an additional 27 locations throughout the town. The public, including EJ, was not privy to this information at the time. This lack of transparency is exactly what we addressed in our letter to the editor.

Condemning Discrimination

Larry also mentioned the antisemitic incident involving a council member. We take this matter very seriously and want to reiterate our position. On March 6th, shortly after the incident came to light, Team Beach collaborated with the Regular Democratic Club of Point Pleasant Beach and released a statement condemning the antisemitic remarks. Here is what we said:

"We are aware of a video circulating on social media that allegedly shows a member of the Point Pleasant Beach Town Council making anti-Semitic remarks. It is essential to state that anti-Semitism, along with all forms of discrimination, is entirely unacceptable, especially from those in leadership positions. We advocate for a thorough investigation by the New Jersey State Attorney General's office to ascertain the authenticity of the video. Should the investigation confirm the allegations, we believe it would be appropriate for the individual in question to resign from their position. Our commitment to fostering a community free from hate and discrimination remains steadfast."

We hope this clarifies our stance and demonstrates our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community.

Addressing Misogyny and Disrespect

We must also address Larry's reference to candidates Cathy Sogorka and Maggie Doucette as “cohorts and friends” of EJ Geiger. Such language is not only disrespectful but also carries an underlying tone of misogyny that has no place in our community discourse. Cathy and Maggie are accomplished, independent leaders dedicated to serving Point Pleasant Beach with integrity and passion. To diminish their contributions and roles by labeling them as mere “cohorts and friends” is both unfair and unacceptable.

Our Commitment to Practical Solutions

Larry’s letter also criticized us for offering generalities and political bromides. This could not be further from the truth. Our approach is rooted in practical and actionable steps. We are advocating for thorough planning and open communication regarding the 5G deployments. This includes providing detailed descriptions of installations and their impacts on our community. Our goal is to ensure that you, the residents, are always informed and involved in these decisions.

Pickleball Priorities: Larry's Swipe Misses the Mark

Larry also took a swipe at Cathy for speaking out about pickleball courts at a council meeting. While some might trivialize this as a minor issue, we see it differently. Advocating for community spaces where residents can come together, enjoy recreational activities, and build stronger social bonds is a vital part of maintaining the charm and livability of our town. If caring about the quality of life in our community is seen as a negative, then we are proud to stand accused. Pickleball courts today, a vibrant and engaged community tomorrow.

A Kind and Hopeful Future

While we are disappointed in Larry’s approach, we understand that he is still processing his disappointment from his own council race loss. Our vision for Point Pleasant Beach is one where leaders act with foresight, integrity, and transparency. We are dedicated to serving you and ensuring that our beautiful town remains a wonderful place to live.

Thank you for your time and continued support. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can build a brighter future for Point Pleasant Beach.

Warm regards,

Cathy Sogorka,
EJ Geiger, and
Maggie Doucette

Team Beach Council Candidates
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Team Beach Voices Concerns Over 5G Deployment

Team Beach was excited to share our thoughts about the handling of the 5G technology deployment in Point Pleasant Beach to the Ocean Star in this week’s Letter to the Editor. Check out below to read the full letter.

June 21, 2024 Ocean Star Letter to the Editor

As candidates for Borough Council in Point Pleasant Beach, we are deeply concerned about the handling of the 5G technology deployment in our town. In May of 2021, the Point Pleasant Beach Council passed Ordinance 2021-22, which aimed to regulate the installation of 5G mobile technology in our town. However, this ordinance has only illuminated a critical issue: a glaring lack of due diligence and transparency.

While the ordinance was intended to provide the Borough with control over the location and appearance of 5G equipment, it appears more like a hasty, reactive measure rather than a well-thought-out, proactive strategy. This approach starkly underscores the failure by those in charge to foresee and address such significant developments in a timely manner. By waiting until the issue was imminent, they have placed our community in a precarious position where we must scramble to catch up, instead of leading with foresight and preparation.

Moreover, there are considerable concerns about the transparency of this process. The ordinance mandates detailed descriptions of proposed installations, including all subservice utilities that might be affected. However, these crucial details have not been adequately communicated to the public, nor has there been any meaningful dialogue with residents about the potential health and safety impacts of 5G technology. This lack of openness fosters distrust and leaves many critical questions unanswered.

The handling of this matter also raises serious questions about our elected officials’ commitment to maintaining the aesthetic integrity of our town. While they now emphasize the importance of controlling the visual impact of 5G equipment, this concern seems to have only surfaced after considerable public pressure. Effective leadership should proactively preserve our community’s charm, not merely react to criticism.

This issue is not isolated to Point Pleasant Beach. Neighboring towns like Belmar have faced significant challenges with 5G deployment, including legal battles and public outcry over health and aesthetic concerns. At the federal level, legislation such as H.R. 3557, the American Broadband Act of 2023, threatens to strip local municipalities of their authority to manage the placement of cell towers and small cell equipment, further complicating efforts to maintain local control. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has imposed regulations that often favor telecom companies over community interests, underscoring the need for vigilant and proactive local leadership.

As candidates, we firmly believe that due diligence and transparency are not optional—they are essential. Our approach would involve anticipating such developments and engaging the community in open, honest conversations from the outset. We would prioritize thorough planning and clear communication to ensure that all residents understand and are comfortable with the steps being taken.

It is imperative that our council understands these issues and follows up with decisive and transparent actions. The time has come for leaders who prioritize these values and truly represent the best interests of Point Pleasant Beach.

Sincerely,

EJ Geiger
Cathy Sogorka
Maggie Doucette

Team Beach Council Candidates
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ