Late-breaking news:

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

InfoAge Meeting, Wednesday April 29

Hello All,

We will have our regular meeting, on Wednesday, April 29nd at 6:45PM.
I extend a warm welcome to you to join in the meeting tomorrow.
We are hosting a regional PTA meeting in the dinning room so expected
new faces.

During the weekend we hosted Scout Troop 71 of Oakhurst, NJ lead by Don
Brockel. They were at InfoAge the 24th - 26th.
Thank you to:
Steve G. who coordinated the visit,
Dan L and Neil N. of the NJHDA who gave the boys a late night tour of
their Shipwreck museum.
Aaron, Dave S. and other NJARC who gave the boys a tour of the Radio
Technology museum
Ron O. and OMARC who gave the boys basic morse code lessons at the
Project Diana / TIROS site.
Neil N. of the EPA who gave the boys a Hazardous Materials Response
demo. Complete with tyvek suits and rubber gloves.
***The boys had a great time and they learned more than they realize.
The troop leaders were very pleased too.


***Upcoming events****
April 29th - We will host a PTA presidents meeting in our hotel to
encourage them to help InfoAge to help their kids and schools.

May 2nd - Radio Auction
May 2nd - Ship Wreck Symposium
May 2nd - Weekend in Old Monmouth - Day One
May 3rd - NJ Hall of Fame Installs Marconi - Tickets are available on
their website.
May 3rd - Weekend in Old Monmouth - Day Two

May 9th - Sunday - 5:30PM InfoAge helps Wall Kiwanis at the Wall Stadium
50/50 raffle. Please let me know if you can help. This is fun
especially if you like auto racing.
The club has supported InfoAge for years. Until we received gifts
from large multi-national corporations the Wall Kiwanis was our best
support when few others had faith in us.

We are in Emergency Stabilization mode now. We are attacking worse first.
We are making progress. I believe we have eliminated the major safety
hazards
We face the challenges of keeping the momentum of our regular activities
increasing and meeting the challenges of the additional grounds and
buildings.

*During the week... and weekend...*

- OMARC celebrated International Marconi Day as an official event
station at the Project Diana / TIROS site.
- The Harley Davidson of Long Branch Shop students visited Camp Evans
for a tour.
- Ray C., and company were at work on Wednesday, this weekend and
Tuesday. They are were getting ready for the auction. The guys are
really working at getting ready. Ray used his charm and influence, so we
are fortunate to have Mr. Richard Estes of Estes Auction to lead the
bidding.
-Dan L. is working with the Breeze to create an InfoAge radio spot.
- Dan L. found a less expensive printer for the newsletter. Thank you
to Evan K. for proof reading.
- We discovered a hole in the boiler building (9033) roof. Now I know
why there was water on the floor. The hole was repaired and it was
re-roofed today.
- We completed the first coat of silver roof paint on 9092 and the tan
side walls have their first coat.
- We began painting 9029. We have a primer coat on two sides of this
60' by 60' WW2 structure. The pattern 105 shiplap wood siding has a 5
3/8 face. When the BRAC contractors removed the interiors to eliminate
the fungus infestation the bob-cat they used tore eight to ten holes in
the siding from the inside. They simply nailed plywood on the exterior
to cover the holes. The rain water leaking under the plywood warped and
rotted areas of the siding. As they were tearing out the electric wires
to scrap the copper they tore off the south east exterior corner
boards. We need to replace a 4 x 8 area. The BRAC contractors also
poured concrete down the toilet and sink sewer lines from the former
rest rooms. Given the building has a concrete slab floor getting the
plumbing working will be a challenge.
- We sorted salvaged drop ceiling parts to repair the ceilings in 9017.
The drop ceilings were heavily damaged as the BRAC contractors striped
the copper from the building. They will be moved from the 9032C hall to
9017 before the auction.
- The Steward School of Business donated seven white boards, 12
trapezoid shaped desks and cabinets. Thanks to Mike G. for getting most
of them.
- Bob Buus provided a complete electric layout of 9093. Our hope is to
have similar documents for each building.
-Bob Pilcher brought us a floor standing radiator for restoring the WW2
look to the foundry.
- The Green Monster 7-UP soda machine has returned. It used to live in
the Hotel lounge. In a reenactment of a scene from Disney's Gullivers
Travels it was removed from Camp Evans to the soda machine doctor.
The GSC - Bob J., Jules and company had it repaired and it is the
first machine in the 9093 vending room. Give it a dollar and you will
get the soda of your choice.

We were open Saturday and Sunday. Thanks to all who were on hand to
greet visitors. We have a constant stream of visitors. Thanks to Steve
G., Bernie R., Dave Sn., JoAnne B., Vince L., Dan L., Evan K., Neil N.,
Board of Trustee Member Larry T., and others

In a review of the National Historic Landmark theme studies our site
could qualify for NHL status under three studies.
*Anyone want to start an application? *
The 'WW2 and the Homefront' study recommends Camp Evans as a potential NHL.
The Marconi Belmar Station could fit under the 'Travel and
Communications' theme in the wireless area.
The test of the regenerative circuit, Weagant's static elimination
advances and the Navy WWI communications center make the site NHL
significant.
Under the 'Man in Space' theme the TIROS ground control center, the
TLM-18 antenna, the mini-track calibration center, satellite tracking
starting with Sputnik, Explorer, Pioneer V and all US and Soviet
launches should qualify under the 'satellite tracking facilities chapter.
****Frank O. is uniquely suited to write this application and he will
attack it...

Infoage is an official Save America's Treasure's Project and we are a
Preserve America Steward organization. Wall Township is a Preserve
America Community
****

President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of
2009 on March 30, which included authorization for Preserve America and
Save America's Treasures grants.

***** I will be asking someone to research these grants. I did one
grant for Save America in 2002 and one for Preserve America in 2005
(lots of paper) - but when they called about the status of the transfer
- all I could tell them way sorry the transfer has been delayed. As of
March 24th 4PM that all changed....and the bill was signed on the 30th...

*Reasons to tell persons why to donate to our effort NOW: *
1) Saves an incredibly historic site
2) Honors WWII Signal Corps and Honor Front veterans
3) Helps education by inspiring kids to learn science
4) Furthers the development of a NJ Shore tourist destination.
5) Will create full and part-time employment
6) Improves property values in the North Wall and Shark River area.
7) We are the White House recognized stewards of the Camp Evans Historic
District and now it is under our protection for future generations

*No Passion = No Progress. We have passion and we are progressing.*
If we do not tell kids what great things others have done to improve our
nation how can we expect them to know what they are capable of.

Please remind me of things of have overlooked in this email. Please
excuse they items I have missed. No slight intended.
I get annoyed with myself as I ride up the Parkway to work and recall
many a good thing persons have done and I lost in my rush to get the
email out.
Another aspect of this is so many of you are doing so many things, I can
not keep up. In a way this is good.

This weekend we will really finish the scratch coat on 9006. I
purchased new concrete tools, so no need to find the old ones. Steve
has bags of sand mix somewhere... We should earn the balance of the
MCHC grant payment before Randy G. retires.

Thank you,
Fred

Friday, April 24, 2009

InfoAge's Guglielmo Marconi to be inducted into NJ Hall of Fame

New Jersey Hall of Fame 2009 Induction Ceremony
May 3, 2009 5:30 pm
at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.

Yes, "our man" Marconi won and will be inducted into the Hall of Fame!

More info.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

InfoAge Meeting, Wednesday April 22

Hello All,

We will have our regular meeting, on Wednesday, April 22nd at 6:45PM.

At our last meeting John K. from the Monmouth Council of Boy Scouts outlined their Camporee at InfoAge the 24th - 27th of April. Sadly, we will have just one troop staying the weekend. Too, many other activities scheduled

***Upcoming events****
April 29th - We will host a PTA presidents meeting in our hotel to encourage them to help InfoAge to help their kids and schools.

May 2nd - Radio Auction
May 2nd - Ship Wreck Symposium
May 2nd - Weekend in Old Monmouth - Day One
May 3rd - NJ Hall of Fame Installs Marconi - Tickets are available on their website.
May 3rd - Weekend in Old Monmouth - Day Two

We are in Emergency Stabilization mode now. We are attacking worse first. The utter shock of the conditions of the buildings and grounds is beginning to wear off.

We are making progress. I believe we have eliminated the major safety hazards

This Saturday and Sunday from 1:00PM to 3:00PM we will have our first general work sessions in the additional area. It will be racking - cleanup, removing boards from windows and noting things that need improvement.
Group Presidents - please encourage members to join in. As President Kennedy sort of said..."Ask not what InfoAge can do for you, ask what you can do for InfoAge".

We face the challenges of keeping the momentum of our regular activities increasing and meeting the challenges of the additional grounds and buildings.

*Status of tactical goals we set last meeting:*
1) This week 9017 was re-roofed. This is the two story WW2 Special Antenna Shelter build to house the mobile SCR-268 radar. It was reworked in the 1980s to house the Fire Finder Project.

2) To Secure the site and buildings as much as possible. Steve G. and
Nels have secured as many doors as possible. We are now looking for replacement doors for those the BRAC contractors disposed of. We had a some kinds break in this week. They did some minor damage. We need help securing the broken doors and replacing missing doors.

3) To Photo document the buildings to record their condition at transfer and for future reference. -We have this started and are making progress. Thank you to Dan L. and Neil N. and others for photo documenting and noting condition of more buildings.

4) To Begin emergency stabilization.
- Our next challenge is storm water drainage around the WW2 wooden buildings. Nels has continued removing debris on the grounds that can put our volunteers in danger from flying metal objects hit by mower blades. We will ask the scouts to help here.

5) Inspect the electrical system and work with JCP&L to improve our
costs.
We need to save electricity. Richard B., submitted the load requirements to JCP&L for the Diana/TIROS site to remove it from our main power grid. We are asking JCP&L to supply that area from their lines on the street. This will remove 6 transformers (600 KVA) from the site and eliminate a potential safety hazard.

*During the week...*

- Ray C., and company were at work on Wednesday.
- Dan L. and Evan K. visited the Harvard University Archives to access files relating to Camp Evans and the Harvard Radio Labs. The two labs worked together during the war. They are waiting for copies of over 30 documents from Harvard Copy Services.
As Dan, Evan and I were in Boston we met with Robert Johnson for dinner. Robert created the No Short Climb DVD.

- I visited the Chatham Marconi Station on Cape Cod to bring them the reproduction J. G. White Engineering Corporation Plaque Bob Judge made. They loved it. The story Dan Z. wrote for the Coast Star was excellent. I returned home with three photos of our station under construction from the personal photos of C. H. Taylor. Mr. Taylor was a
Marconi Co employee who helped in the construction of wireless station around the globe. The photos answered the question as to which direction the Henderson photo was taken.

- Architect Rich Grasso of the Glendola Lions Club is working on the 9032 restrooms plans to add additional facilities for our wheelchair visitors in keeping with the WW2 look.

-Dan L. is working with the Breeze to create an InfoAge radio spot.

- Verizon notified us we are listed on their employee website as an approved charity for their employees to consider volunteering with us.

- Dan L. has our next newsletter in review.
- There were two great articles in the Asbury Park Press and the Coaster on the NJHDA Shipwreck Museum progress and the upcoming symposium.- We submitted the one-day auction license form to Wall & I believe we are properly registered with the state to collect and submit sales tax during this auction.
-NJNG connected a gas line to 9059. The next step is to install the new heat/air unit.

-Rich Connor visited our site to let us know the film in which scenes were shot in the 9002 cottage will be opening in Viet Nam on their national holiday. Steve G. escorted Rich around the new area so Rich could take photos to interest other film companies to consider our site as a film location.

- Thanks to Mike G. networking - A week ago M. Gannon of Gannon Plumbing visited our hotel to determine if the heat zones could be fixed. He is doing this as a gift to InfoAge. Our BRAC 'friends' disabled them beyond repair. So they are researching if replacement unit are available.

*During the weekend...*

- Saturday Ray Chase and the NJARC hosted a great "Radar History" tutorial in 9059. An attendee, Paul M. donated a box of radar history books

We were open Sunday. Thanks to all who were on hand to greet visitors. We began the painting of 9092. This metal building can be seen from Monmouth Bl. Painting it shows all who drive by that improvements are being made. This structure appears to be a SCR-271 equipment shelter similar to the one at Fort Sherman that guarded the entrance to the
Panama Canal. We have been told it was used during WW2 to test fighter plane instrument panels for explosion resistance. It had a special explosion chamber. When a failure occurred the exploding air-plane fuel would be safely contained, but the noise would cause many of the draftsman working in 9010D ruin their ink drawings. Later a new design chamber was placed in a new building near Watson road. 9092 then housed
a dust infiltration test chamber.

We cleaned years of pine needle debris out of the 9011D gutters and we removed more vines from the Monmouth Bl fence.

In a review of the National Historic Landmark theme studies our site could qualify for NHL status under three studies. *Anyone want to start an application? *
The 'WW2 and the Homefront' study recommends Camp Evans as a potential NHL.
The Marconi Belmar Station could fit under the 'Travel and Communications' theme in the wireless area.
The test of the regenerative circuit, Weagant's static elimination advances and the Navy WWI communications center make the site NHL significant.
Under the 'Man in Space' theme the TIROS ground control center, the TLM-18 antenna, the mini-track calibration center, satellite tracking starting with Sputnik, Explorer, Pioneer V and all US and Soviet launches should qualify under the 'satellite tracking facilities chapter. Frank O. is uniquely suited to write this application and he will attack it...

This weekend we were in shock and did not even think to finish the scratch coat on 9006. Soon we will knock this off to earn the balance of the MCHC grant payment.

****Something with very positive potential: ****
Please note: Infoage is an official Save America's Treasure's Project and we are a Preserve America Steward organization. Wall Township is a Preserve America
Community

President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 on March 30, which included authorization for Preserve America and Save America's Treasures grants.

In addition to the grants, the law codifies the designation of Preserve America Communities as one of the entities eligible to apply for grants. It gives the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) the responsibility to establish any necessary guidelines for the designation process in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior. The ACHP is also specifically directed to establish an expedited process for Preserve America Community designation for Certified Local Governments that are established under the National Historic Preservation Act.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) urges Preserve America Communities, Preserve America Presidential Award winners or aspirants, Preserve America Stewards and local heritage preservation organizations to create local service learning and/or community service opportunities for students and school systems across the United States.

The concept is simple: use local heritage resources that can benefit from meaningful volunteer efforts to create community service opportunities for students in ways that are integral to their educational progress and fill real community needs.

The ACHP, its members and partners--Learn and Serve America (part of the Corporation for National and Community Service) and Heritage Education Services of the National Park Service--are leading the effort to use local heritage resources to widen public appreciation for history and preservation and involve youth in meaningful community service.

To learn how service learning can benefit preservation organizations and local communities and understand how to create such opportunities with local schools, click here .

To learn more about the overall effort and the ACHP's participation click here . The ACHP would like to hear from you. If you already have a service learning project underway and would consider sharing your experiences, please e-mail the ACHP with brief information on the project and contact information for learning more here .


***** I will be asking someone to research these grants. I did one grant for Save America in 2002 and one for Preserve America in 2005 (lots of paper) - but when they called about the status of the transfer - all I could tell them way sorry the transfer has been delayed. As of March 24th 4PM that all changed....and the bill was signed on the 30th...

*Reasons to tell persons why to donate to our effort NOW: *
1) Saves an incredibly historic site
2) Honors WWII Signal Corps and Honor Front veterans
3) Helps education by inspiring kids to learn science
4) Furthers the development of a NJ Shore tourist destination.
5) Will create full and part-time employment
6) Improves property values in the North Wall and Shark River area.
7) We are the White House recognized stewards of the Camp Evans Historic District and now it is under our protection for future generations

*No Passion = No Progress. We have passion and we are progressing.*

I extend a warm welcome to you to join in the meeting tomorrow.

Please remind me of things of have overlooked in this email. Please excuse they items I have missed. No slight intended. I get annoyed with myself as I ride up the Parkway to work and recall many a good thing persons have done and I lost in my rust to get the
email out.Another aspect of this is so many of you are doing so many things, I can not keep up. In a way this is good.

Thank you,
Fred

InfoAge Meeting, Wednesday April 15

Hello All,

We will have our regular meeting, on Wednesday, April 15th at 6:45PM.

At our last meeting John K. from the Monmouth Council of Boy Scouts outlined their Camporee at InfoAge the 24th - 27th of April. During this meeting we will go over the tours or other activities we can provide during the event.

With the transfer we have been very busy. Lots going on. This report will be missing some detail. We face the challenges of keeping the momentum of our regular activities

increasing and meeting the challenges of the additional grounds and buildings.

We are in Emergency Stabilization mode now. We are attacking worse first. Thank you to those who are helping to find the roof leaks, and other challenges we have with the building.

*Status of tactical goals we set last meeting:*

1) Our safety walk around to find, fix or label any safety hazards.

-The status of the electrocution hazard in 9035. On Thursday a contractor repaired the damaged roof structure, and replaced the tar-paper and shingles.

The contractor also re-roofed 9400. This historic structure is the site of the Special technical unit that used seismic wave detection equipment to monitor Soviet nuclear tests. It is also the building the Army refused Sen. Joe McCarthy's demands to allow his staff entry into a top secret project.

The contractor also re-roofed 9057, the two bay garage will also be re-roofed to help the town quiet a continuing complaint on its condition.

This week 9017 will be re-roofed. This is the two story WW2 Special Antenna Shelter build to house the mobile SCR-268 radar. It was reworked in the 1980s to house the Fire Finder Project.

2) To Secure the site and buildings as much as possible.

Steve G. and Nels have secured as many doors as possible. We are now looking for replacement doors for those the BRAC contractors disposed of.

3) To Photo document the buildings to record their condition at transfer and for future reference.

-We have this started, but safety issues were more important. Thank you to Dan L. and Neil N. and others for photo documenting more buildings.

4) To Begin emergency stabilization.

- We had roofs replaced this week. We also did some patches in two section of the 'H' buildings. With this weekends rain we found many more leaks in the 'H' building roofs. Pete R., Nels, Dan L., and Neil N. when throughout the buildings with a 16' 1x2 with a paint brush marking the roof leaks with yellow paint. There are over twenty known

leaks. Wind and rain from another direction will show more leaks. We may have to replace the 'H' buildings roofs sooner than later.

- Our next challenge is storm water drainage around the WW2 wooden buildings. Nels has continued removing debris on the grounds that can put our volunteers in danger from flying metal objects hit by mower blades. We will ask the scouts to help here.

5) Inspect the electrical system and work with JCP&L to improve our costs. We need to save electricity.

-Dave Sn., Richard B., and I will met with a JCP&L layout tech on Wednesday to survey the Diana/TIROS site to remove it from our main power grid. We are asking JCP&L to supply that area from their lines on the street. The tech agreed with Richard B. that a set of transformers can be placed across the street. This will remove 6 transformers (600 KVA) from the site and eliminate a potential safety hazard.

*During the week...*

Ray C., and company were at work on Wednesday.

Bob P. and staff made electrical repairs in 9059. A GFI outlet was

added to 9059.

Architect Rich Grasso of the Glendola Lions Club was given the measurements of the 9032 restrooms to add additional facilities for our wheelchair visitors in keeping with the WW2 look.

Dave Sica is adding this past weeks email and future ones to the InfoAge blog.

Dave also organized video equipment in the former gift shop room.

*During the weekend...*

The NJARC had a well attended meeting. Thank you to President Richard Lee for allowing me to address the group to ask for help

On Sunday we were closed for Easter.

This week Dan L. is working on our Newsletter.

Dan L. and Evan K. will be visiting Boston to research Marconi and WW2 countermeasures history at the Harvard archives. They will be driving together to save $$. What dedication. Six hours one way!!!
We will deliver the reproduction of the "J.G. White Engineering Corporation" Builders plaque to our friends at the Chatham Marconi Station. Thanks to Bob Judge for another great work. Bob also made the model of the Marconi Hotel that was displayed in the White House during the year the SAVE AMERICA'S TREASURES projects were invited to send models of their buildings to raise awareness of the excellent preservation efforts around the country.

We saved 12 WW2 interior doors from the buildings which Brookdale will demolish. We will use these to replace the modern doors in 9032C to return the WW2 look and feel. This building will be our WW2 home-front exhibit in the future.

Thank you to Terry L. for earning her second Junior Fire Marshal badge.

*Upcoming events to plan for...

April 18th - Tutorial #3 - Dr. Ray Chase tells the history of radar

The Monmouth Boy scouts want to hold their *Camporee at InfoAge on April 24th - 26th*. Lots of scouts. Lot of opportunity to educate and Inspire. We need to plan this BIG ONE.

The May Shipwreck Symposium and Auction. Guys please send materials to create a webpage on our website.

***I must run*** More items in next weeks mail.

In a review of the National Historic Landmark theme studies our site could qualify for NHL status under three studies. *Anyone want to start an application? *

The 'WW2 and the Homefront' study recommends Camp Evans as a potential NHL.

The Marconi Belmar Station could fit under the 'Travel and Communications' theme in the wireless area.

The test of the regenerative circuit, Weagant's static elimination advances and the Navy WWI communications center make the site NHL significant.

Under the 'Man in Space' theme the TIROS ground control center, the TLM-18 antenna, the mini-track calibration center, satellite tracking starting with Sputnik, Explorer, Pioneer V and all US and Soviet launches should qualify under the 'satellite tracking facilities chapter.

This weekend we were in shock and did not even think to finish the scratch coat on 9006. Soon we will knock this off to earn the balance of the MCHC grant payment.

****Something with very positive potential: ****

Please note: Infoage is an official Save America's Treasure's Project and we are a Preserve America Steward organization. Wall Township is a Preserve America Community


President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 on March 30, which included authorization for Preserve America and Save America's Treasures grants.

In addition to the grants, the law codifies the designation of Preserve America Communities as one of the entities eligible to apply for grants. It gives the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) the responsibility to establish any necessary guidelines for the designation process in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior. The ACHP is also specifically directed to establish an expedited process for Preserve America Community designation for Certified Local Governments that are established under the National Historic Preservation Act.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) urges Preserve America Communities, Preserve America Presidential Award winners or aspirants, Preserve America Stewards and local heritage preservation organizations to create local service learning and/or community service opportunities for students and school systems across the United States.

The concept is simple: use local heritage resources that can benefit from meaningful volunteer efforts to create community service opportunities for students in ways that are integral to their educational progress and fill real community needs.

The ACHP, its members and partners--Learn and Serve America (part of the Corporation for National and Community Service) and Heritage Education Services of the National Park Service--are leading the effort to use local heritage resources to widen public appreciation for history and preservation and involve youth in meaningful community service.

To learn how service learning can benefit preservation organizations and local communities and understand how to create such opportunities with local schools, click here .

To learn more about the overall effort and the ACHP's participation click here . The ACHP would like to hear from you. If you already have a service learning project underway and would consider sharing your experiences, please e-mail the ACHP with brief information on the project and contact information for learning more here .

***** I will be asking someone to research these grants. I did one grant for Save America in 2002 and one for Preserve America in 2005 (lots of paper) - but when they called about the status of the transfer - all I could tell them way sorry the transfer has been delayed. As of March 24th 4PM that all changed....and the bill was signed on the 30th...

*Reasons to tell persons why to donate to our effort NOW: *

1) Saves an incredibly historic site

2) Honors WWII Signal Corps and Honor Front veterans

3) Helps education by inspiring kids to learn science

4) Furthers the development of a NJ Shore tourist destination.

5) Will create full and part-time employment

6) Improves property values in the North Wall and Shark River area.

7) We are the White House recognized stewards of the Camp Evans Historic District and now it is under our protection for future generations

*No Passion = No Progress. We have passion and we are progressing.*

I extend a warm welcome to you to join in the meeting tomorrow.

As President Kennedy sort of said..."Ask not want InfoAge can do for you, ask what you can do for InfoAge".

Please remind me of things of have overlooked in this email. Please excuse they items I have missed. No slight intended.Thank you,

Fred

732 299-0894

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

InfoAge Meeting, Wednesday April 8

We will have our regular meeting, on Wednesday, April 8th at 6:45PM. We had 20 persons attend our last meeting. It was a very productive meeting.

This meeting we expect to welcome John K. from the Monmouth Council of Boy Scouts who will help us plan for their Camporee at InfoAge the 24th - 27th of April.

With the transfer we have been very busy. There is lots going on; this report will no doubt be missing some details. We face the challenges of keeping the momentum of our regular activities while meeting the challenges of dealing with the additional grounds and buildings.

We are in Emergency Stabilization Mode now. We are attacking the worst things first. Tomorrows meeting will be a call to action. I will be asking groups and persons to step up and handle our most pressing problems, research the costs of our challenges. In short to do what we need to do to stabilize our buildings.

Status of tactical goals we set last meeting:

1. Our safety walk around to find, fix or label any safety hazards.

The status of the electrocution hazard in 9035. Dave Sn., Evan K., Marv B. and I placed a 20' by 30' tarp over the roof. It kept the weather out during the first rain. Then the winds gusts tore it off on Friday. We replaced it on Sunday to keep out the second rain storm. We labeled the panel with Danger signs: “Electrocution Hazard- Live High Voltage.” We put multiple labels on the entrance doors and put red “DANGER” tape around the entrance stairs. Steve G. repaired the door damage and replaced the lock core, so the door is now secure. On Thursday a roofing contractor will repair the water-damaged roof structure, tear-off and replace the tar paper and shingles.

The contractor will also re-roof 9400. This historic structure is the site of the Special Technical Unit that used seismic wave detection equipment to monitor Soviet nuclear tests. It is also the building the Army refused Sen. Joe McCarthy's demands to allow his staff entry into a top secret project. Published reports and oral histories we have record that Roy Cohen, McCarthy's attorney swore he would “get the Army” for this insult. This is one of the events that lead to the famous Army vs. McCarthy hearings. "If you only knew what is going on in our secret radar laboratory..." McCarthy would attempt to get across in the hearing broadcast on TV.

9057, the two-bay garage will also be re-roofed to help the town quiet a continuing complaint on its condition.

Thanks to Nels and Steve G. we secured low-cost replacements for the ten sets of broken windows in 9017. Two windows still need repair and one complete window frame, which had been torn out of the exterior wall, needs to be replaced. We removed the debris, which was laden with pigeon excrement. .

2. Security

Secure the site and buildings as much as possible. Steve G. has replaced as many lock cores as possible. The BRAC contractors installed mismatched door lock hardware. The striker plates do not match the locks. Steve continues to work on this.

3. Photo documentation

Photo document the buildings to record their condition at transfer and for future reference. We have started this project, but dealing with safety issues was more urgent. Over the past weekend we made more progress and we hope to make more this coming weekend. Ina V. and Marisa documented 9017, 9013, 9087 and the Marconi mast antenna on Monmouth Blvd.

4) Emergency stabilization of buildings

We should have three roofs replaced this week. We have bids for three more building roofs and patches for the 'H' buildings. I have asked another company for a bid but have not received a reply yet. We have gotten good prices from this contractor, but others bids for the work would help keep the costs competitive.

Our next most pressing challenge is storm water drainage around the WW2 wooden buildings. Nels and helpers have continued removing vines growing on the buildings. Nels has continued removing debris on the grounds that can put our volunteers in danger from flying metal objects hit by mower blades.

5. Electrical System

Inspect the electrical system and work with JCP&L to improve our costs. We need to save electricity.

Dave Sn., Richard B., and I will meet with a JCP&L layout tech at 2:30PM Wednesday 4/8 to survey the Diana/TIROS site regarding removing it from our main power grid. We are asking JCP&L to supply that area from their lines on the street.

During the week:

Ray C., and company were at work on Wednesday.

Bob P. and staff made electrical repairs in 9059. We added a ceiling motion detector for lights in the gate one guard house hall for safety. As a security entrance there were no light switches in the hall. The detector was the best way to keep the historic detail and improve our safety.

Architect Rich Grasso of the Glendola Lions Club was giving the measurements of the 9032 restrooms to add additional facilities for our wheelchair visitors in keeping with the WW2 look.

Dave Sica is adding this email and future ones to the InfoAge blog.

Pete R. had the Toro mower serviced.

During the weekend:

On Sunday Bernie R., Bob B., Joanne B., Cicely F., Dan L., Terry L., Dan J., Evan K., Phil V., Steve G., Mike G., Nels W., Pete R., Neil L. and other were at InfoAge to greet visitors.

Marissa P, Ina V., and Lena V. were photo documenting buildings.

Dan L. is working on our Newsletter.

Dan L. and Evan K. will be visiting Boston to research Marconi and WW2 countermeasures history at the Harvard archives. They will be driving together to save $$. What dedication. Six hours one way!!!

Bob B. created a circuit layout of 9093. It shows which breaker controls which outlets and which lights in graphic format. The hope is to create an operations manual for each building. Henry S. did the hotel last year. Which was a great help.Bob are you game for 9017?

The TIROS 50th anniversary is April 1st 2010 - next year. We expect the painting estimate for the TLM-18 dish to arrive this week. We need to get back to work on 9162. Does anyone know of another structure painting company to get a second bid?

In a review of the National Historic Landmark theme studies we found that our site could qualify for NHL status under three studies.Anyone want to start an application?

The "WW2 and the Homefront" study recommends Camp Evans as a potential NHL. The Marconi Belmar Station could fit under the “Travel and Communications” theme in the wireless area.

The test of the regenerative circuit, Weagant's static elimination advances and the Navy WWI communications center make the site NHL significant.

Under the 'Man in Space' theme the TIROS ground control center, the TLM-18 antenna, the mini-track calibration center, satellite tracking starting with Sputnik, Explorer, Pioneer V and all US and Soviet launches should qualify under the 'satellite tracking facilities chapter.

This weekend we were in shock and did not even think to finish the scratch coat on 9006. Soon we will knock this off to earn the balance of the MCHC grant payment.

Something with very positive potential:

Please note: Infoage is an official Save America's Treasure's Project and we are a Preserve America Steward organization. Wall Township is a Preserve America Community

President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 on March 30, which included authorization for Preserve America and Save America's Treasures grants.

In addition to the grants, the law codifies the designation of Preserve America Communities as one of the entities eligible to apply for grants. It gives the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) the responsibility to establish any necessary guidelines for the designation process in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior. The ACHP is also specifically directed to establish an expedited process for Preserve America Community designation for Certified Local Governments that are established under the National Historic Preservation Act.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) urges Preserve America Communities, Preserve America Presidential Award winners or aspirants, Preserve America Stewards and local heritage preservation organizations to create local service learning and/or community service opportunities for students and school systems across the United States.

The concept is simple: use local heritage resources that can benefit from meaningful volunteer efforts to create community service opportunities for students in ways that are integral to their educational progress and fill real community needs.

The ACHP, its members and partners--Learn and Serve America (part of the Corporation for National and Community Service) and Heritage Education Services of the National Park Service--are leading the effort to use local heritage resources to widen public appreciation for history and preservation and involve youth in meaningful community service.

To learn how service learning can benefit preservation organizations and local communities and understand how to create such opportunities with local schools, click here .

To learn more about the overall effort and the ACHP's participation click here.

The ACHP would like to hear from you. If you already have a service learning project underway and would consider sharing your experiences, please e-mail the ACHP with brief information on the project and contact information for learning more here.

I will be asking someone to research these grants. I did one grant for Save America in 2002 and one for Preserve America in 2005 (lots of paper), but when they called about the status of the transfer all I could tell them way sorry the transfer has been delayed. As of March 24th 4PM that all changed....and the bill was signed on the 30th.

Upcoming events:

April 18th - Tutorial #3. Dr. Ray Chase presentation on the history of radar.
April 24th - 26th The Monmouth Boy scouts plan to hold their Camporee at InfoAge. Lots of scouts. Lot of opportunity to educate and inspire.

Reasons to tell persons why to donate to our effort NOW:

  1. Saves an incredibly historic site
  2. Honors WWII Signal Corps and Honor Front veterans
  3. Helps education by inspiring kids to learn science
  4. Furthers the development of a NJ Shore tourist destination.
  5. Will create full and part-time employment
  6. Improves property values in the North Wall and Shark River area.
  7. We are the White House recognized stewards of the Camp Evans Historic District and now it is under our protection for future generations

No Passion = No Progress. We have passion and we are progressing.

I extend a warm welcome to you to join in the Wednesday meeting.


As President Kennedy sort of said..."Ask not want InfoAge can do for you, ask what you can do for InfoAge".

Please remind me of things of have overlooked in this email. Please excuse any items I have missed. No slight intended.

Thank you,

Fred

732 299-0894


Tuesday, April 7, 2009

InfoAge Meeting, Wednesday April 1

Hello All,

With the transfer we have been busy. There is more activity than usual going on. Thanks to all who are doing something to keep the progress going at InfoAge. If you are doing something, be sure to let me know so I can record it here. This is a record of our achievements. We have done so much work it is almost unbelievable. As we continue to grow, we face the new challenge of keeping the momentum of our regular activities while also tending to the responsibilities of the additional grounds and buildings.

Status of tactical goals we set last meeting:

1. Safety walk

Our safety walk around the new portion of the property to identify and fix any safety hazards.

We found an electrocution hazard in 9035: An open electrical 3-phase 220V panel with exposed wires and water on the floor. Multiple holes in the roof were allowing rainwater onto the panel. We labeled the panel with warning signs “Electrocution Hazard - Live High Voltage.” We put multiple labels on the entrance doors and put red 'DANGER' tape around the entrance stairs.

This panel feeds the controls of the 4,500 V switch building. So its loss would have unpredictable results. We have tarps ready to cover the roof before the next rain. We have a roofer scheduled to come by to give us an estimate to replace the water-damaged roof structure and to tear-off and replace the tar paper and shingles.

This was a very dangerous situation. Our power system is still exposed to failure. This is another example of how the DOA BRAC does not seem to care about human heath and safety. I called and informed them of this situation. All they could say was they were not aware of it and did not know it was dangerous.

For the past six months we have repeatedly requested permission from BRAC to enter the property prior to transfer to repair the holes in the roof of 9400. Rainwater was leaking on the electric panel. They refused, but they put a piece of sheet metal over the panel to deflect the rain. The exterior of the panel is a little rusty, but we hope there is no rust inside. The finger size holes in the roof have grown to fist size. The bid from the roofing contractor was only valid for 60 days. We are in the process of getting a new bid.

Thanks to Nels we have removed several dozen broken windows so no one gets cut on the glass. The windows will be repaired. We still have more safety survey work to do.

2. Security

We’ve begun to secure the new portion of the site and the new buildings. Thanks to Nels and Steve G. many of the door locks now work properly. The BRAC contractors installed mismatched lock hardware. The striker plates did not all match the locks. Steve G. is continuing to work on this.

3. Photo documentation

We are documenting the condition of the buildings at the time of transfer with photographs and video footage for future reference. We’ve started this process, but dealing with the safety issues discovered has been our priority. We will continue work on the photo documentation over the coming days.

4. Emergency stabilization of buildings


We have lots of roofs to replace. The work that needs to be done in that area is not glamorous and we will have to spend time and money on it that could be used elsewhere. But the first place to start to save a building is to repair the roof and deal with any water problems.
Thanks to Nels and helpers for dealing with the overgrown vegetation that could cause damage. We have begun removing vines growing on the buildings. We currently have three buildings done. We have begun cutting vines and bush off the Monmouth Blvd. security fence.

5. Electrical System

We now must inspect the electrical system and work with JCP&L to lower our electricity costs. We need to save electricity.

Rich B., Rich L. and Rich O. inspected the equipment in the switch room and select secondary transformer buildings. A note on a 220V panel stating that the panel was fed from 9035 lead us to the discovery of the hazardous situation previously noted. BRAC tells us no document exists documenting which secondary transformer feeds which building. This is incredible and I find it hard to believe their story. We have a work order request filed with JCP&L for a Layout Technician to survey the Diana/TIROS site as a first step in removing it from our main power grid. We are asking JCP&L to supply that area from their lines on the street.

During the week:

I attended two recent Wall Kiwanis meetings. I met the Wall Key Club president and the incoming Key Club Lieutenant Governor. The Wall Key club indicated that they would like to volunteer at InfoAge. In fact, the president of the Wall Key club along with a friend has already volunteered this past Sunday. Once the Kiwanis club has a copy of the Wall Stadium’s schedule for this year they will contact us to help with the 50/50 they have run at Wall Stadium

On Tuesday we had a second meeting with the Neptune HS principal, Mr. Allen. He sees that InfoAge can help his programs and wants to help us get his ROTC and other groups involved.

Ray C. and company were hard at work on Wednesday. Bob P. and staff made electrical repairs in 9093, the gate one guardhouse. A short circuit was repaired. The thirty amp fuses placed in 15 amp circuits were removed and replaced with the correct ones. We replaced the old water-stained light fixtures. We have also run wires to put motion detection in the hallway to control the lights as an energy saving measure.

Bob and his crew also attempted to provide Dan J's new computer shop with additional electrical outlets for the computer lab setup. Unfortunately, the old WW2-era circuits do not contain a ground wire, so we will have to leave the two prong outlets in place for now. The new breaker panel meets current codes and has lots of spare breakers. Bob and staff will run new circuits for Dan from that panel. I have directed Bob to check all three-prong outlets as he works on buildings to make sure the outlets are property grounded. If they are not he will replace them with two prong outlets to eliminate the use of the outlets by equipment that requires proper grounding.

Mike G. found us some used kitchen cabinets. There are more than we need to help the Boy Scout with his eagle project, but we will eventually need cabinets for more coffee and break rooms as we expand into new buildings.

We have submitted our National Register of Historic Places boundary Increase paperwork. I drove it to Trenton the other day to deal with this. If approved this will add buildings 9017, 9087 and the Marconi mast anchor now under our stewardship to our historic district. We are working with Brookdale College to help remove an area from the register to help reduce some of their potential site development costs. The package of narrative, historic photos, current photos, maps and diagrams grew to 50 pages. Thanks to Bob Craig we were able to get it all completed and submitted.

Dave Sica is adding my email posts to the InfoAge blog.

Pete R. had the woods zero-turn mower engine rebuilt.

During the weekend:

On Saturday, March 21st, The New Jersey Antique Radio Club held a radio repair clinic in the Telephone Exchange Building. It was open to the public and attendance was great. By all reports everyone left happy. This recurring event will be another great way to bring the community to InfoAge.

An order mix-up resulted in lots of pizza for everyone on Saturday and Sunday. Thanks!!

Rich O. had his scouts back here again for a hands-on sheet-rock repair clinic

Dan L. Evan K., and I measured the 9032 restrooms to provide architect, Rich Grasso, with the information he will need to specify improvements to add two more wheelchair-friendly restrooms to the WW2 administration complex.

On Sunday Bernie R., Bob B., Ray C., Edith C., Dan L., Terry L., Dan J., Evan K., Phil V., Steve G., Mike G., Nels W., Pete R., Neil L. and other were at InfoAge to greet visitors.

Marissa P, Ina V., and Lena V. were back again up in our archive cataloging the hundreds of drawings Larry saved of Camp Evans.

We had a scout pack visit on Sunday.

Jack Kick of the Vanguard II, SCORE and TIROS satellite teams visited again this Sunday with a stack of vintage satellite era photos and one of the satellite data recorders.
They are on loan to us to scan the photos and photograph the data unit.

Our last Wednesday meeting was a long one. We had many topics to cover. In attendance were Mike G., Dan J., Kyle B., Ray C., Steve G., Terry L, Dan L. Ron O., Neil N. and others.

Dan L. asks you remember the articles for the Newsletter are always due end-of-month.

The TIROS 50th anniversary is April 1st 2010 - next year. We need to get back to work on 9162. Bob P. and Steve G. checked out the power in 9162 for needed improvements.

Alpine Painting visited to create a bid to paint the TLM-18 Dish. The bid will be in the mail this week. Thanks to Harris Corp. we have $15,000 to help cover this expensive work. Does anyone know of another structure painting company to get a second bid?

The floor drain in the utility room may finally be unclogged. We used our shop vacuum and Steve G. tried with our power snake with the root cutter.

In a review of the National Historic Landmark theme studies our site could qualify for NHL status under three studies. Anyone want to start an application?

The “WW2 and the Homefront” study recommends Camp Evans as a potential National Historic Landmark.

The Marconi Belmar Station could fit under the “Travel and Communications” theme in the wireless area. The test of the regenerative circuit, Weagant's static elimination advances and the Navy WWI communications center make the site NHL significant.

Under the 'Man in Space' theme the TIROS ground control center, the TLM-18 antenna, the mini-track calibration center, satellite tracking starting with Sputnik, Explorer, Pioneer V and all US and Soviet launches should qualify under the 'satellite tracking facilities chapter.

This weekend we were too busy with guests and it was too wet to finish the scratch coat on 9006. Soon we will finish this task to earn the balance of the MCHC grant payment.

Upcoming events:

April 18th - Tutorial #3. Dr. Ray Chase presentation on the history of radar.
April 24th - 26th The Monmouth Boy scouts plan to hold their Camporee at InfoAge. Lots of scouts. Lot of opportunity to educate and inspire.

Reasons to tell persons why to donate to our effort NOW:

  1. Help preserve an incredibly historic site
  2. Honor WWII Signal Corps and Honor Front veterans
  3. Help education by inspiring kids to learn science
  4. Further the development of a NJ Shore tourist destination
  5. Create full and part-time employment
  6. Improve property values in the North Wall and Shark River area
  7. We are the White House recognized stewards of the Camp Evans Historic District and now it is under our protection for future generations
No Passion = No Progress. We have passion and we are progressing!

Please remind me of things of have overlooked in this email.

Thank you,
Fred
732 299-0894
My photo
2201 Marconi Road, Wall Township, New Jersey, United States