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(908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, December 25, 2003 Published Every Thursday Since 1890 OUR 114th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 16-114 Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] FIFTY CENTS

Bill Sheppard for The Westfield Leader Lauren S. Pass for The Westfield Leader Ben Corbin for The Westfield Leader NO APRIL FOOL…Jason Carle of MINDOWASKIN ON ICE…Westfielders took their ice skates and ice hockey equipment to Mindowaskin Pond in CALL TO DUTY…In February, fire departments from around Union County Outragehiss Animals gives Westfield in January. Pictured, above, ice hockey players wait for the missing puck. This was the first time the pond was responded to a fire on Rivervale Court in Scotch Plains. The fire was started by workmen Mountainside residents a close look at opened for skating since 1984. in the apartment complex. Pictured above are Westfield firemen venting the roof. his Burmese python. WF Chooses Redevelopment Agency; SP Begins SID Process; Board of Ed. Budgets Pass in All Towns in First Half of 2003

By KIMBERLY A. BROADWELL, Saying that 2003 “will be the most The Scotch Plains council ap- year contract. Details of the jitney bus shuttle watch for 25 years of service to the ELIZABETH CORRELL, LAUREN S. difficult budget year facing Scotch proved a resolution authorizing the Westfield Republican Chairman service were discussed at a Fanwood borough at Mountainside’s monthly PASS and FRED ROSSI Specially Written for The Times Plains” in his 23 years on the job, signing of an agreement with Jon Bramnick won his bid for the council meeting, including person- meeting. Township Manager Thomas Atkins Fanwood to formalize the operation Assembly seat vacated by Tom Kean nel and advertising. An ordinance was passed banning Editor’s note: The following is a warned the council that, in order to of the long-awaited shuttle bus ser- Jr. Raymond Manfra, Fanwood Di- recap of the top news of the first half advertising on municipal vehicles in avoid significant property tax in- vice between the Fanwood train sta- The Scotch Plains Public Library rector of Public Works, celebrated Fanwood. of 2003 for Westfield, Scotch Plains, creases to finance this year’s munici- tion and various points in Scotch was slightly damaged by a February 40 years of employment with the Mountainside and Fanwood. The The Fanwood mayor and council pal budget, it might have to consider Plains and Fanwood. It was expected 26 fire that led to its closing for two borough. held a meeting with Comcast to dis- second half of 2003 will be featured possible reductions in services and that the service would be operational weeks and affected the building’s in next week’s edition. March cuss rate increases and programming potentially mandatory workforce re- within a few months, but at year’s heating system. changes. January In advance of the introduction of ductions. end, matters were still in limbo and The Fanwood council announced April Mayor Gregory McDermott dis- The Westfield Town Council de- further decisions will be carried over plans to lease borough property for the 2003 municipal budget, Scotch cussed the need for parking, pedes- cided to postpone a vote on the trans- into 2004. $27,000 per year to a communica- Plains Mayor Marks warned resi- The Westfield Leader and The trian safety and field improvements fer of a liquor license, which was The Scotch Plains council also tions company that would construct dents they were facing “one of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times re- during his annual State of the Town previously held by Sinclair’s Restau- gave brief consideration to a pro- and use a communications tower. largest, if not the largest, tax in- leased last edition from the Elm Street Address. He announced that eight rant, and was being sought for pur- posal that would charge local non- Mountainside Board of Education creases in Scotch Plains history,” office. firms had answered the Town’s RFQs, chase by Fujiama Mama. profit organizations a user fee for members Frank Geiger and Mary saying that the rise in the municipal The Scotch Plains council intro- and they would be interviewed this Town Attorney Robert Cockren their sewer use. But the initiative Beth Schaumberg announced their portion of local property taxes was duced its 2003 municipal budget, year. stated that there were issues with the stalled four months later, after fig- candidacy for reelection against likely to be a double-digit hike. which called for a 3.2 percent in- “I anticipate that there will be a license and Town Code. He said that ures provided to the township coun- Linda Esemplare, Patricia Knodel The Westfield Town Council ap- crease in spending and an 18-point shovel in the ground this year but it the code prohibits alcohol to be served cil showed that the costs to the town- and Pauline Genakos. Two open seats proved a tentative 2003 budget of hike in the municipal portion of local will not be for a parking deck – it will at a counter, and because the restau- ship and more specifically, the tax- were available. $27,990,304, which included a tax property taxes. Township officials be for a structure that incorporates rant has a sushi bar and service bar, payers were less than anticipated. Twenty inches of snow that fell on increase of 3.86 cents per $100 of said the steep tax rise was necessi- the varied economic and aesthetic this would not comply with the code. Robert Fairchild, a resident of the Presidents Day shut down the state. assessed home value. On the average tated by a state aid freeze, rising elements that best serve the needs of Mountainside resident and Presi- Borough of Mountainside, donated a The Fanwood Land Use Ordinance assessed home of $180,000, this in- fixed costs, declining revenue, low this community now and in the years dent of the Mountainside Board of defibrillator to the borough in was amended to restrict use of deco- crease came out to $69.50. returns on investments and the gen- to come,” the mayor said. Education, Richard Kress, had been memory of his wife, Josephine. rative lights by retailers. A resolution was passed allowing erally weak economy. At the annual Reorganization notified that he would be called to Fanwood’s Mayor Jung stated that Eight Westfield candidates com- Mountainside Borough employees Former Union County Prosecutor Meeting held on New Year’s Day at appear before the Supreme Court the downtown revitalization project peted for a chance at one of four seats to receive financial incentives by CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 Fanwood Borough Hall, Joel Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). would remain the administration’s on the Board of Education. waiving their employee health cov- Whitaker was reelected as Council The Westfield Board of Education top priority for the year. Also listed The three-year terms up for grabs erage. Panera Bread President, and Mayor Louis Jung heard from several residents, who as a priority were the borough’s two had belonged to Dr. Carol Molnar, John Morgan was hired as administered the Oath of Office for staunchly supported the reinstate- parks, with planned renovation and Kimberly Rhodes and Anne Riegel. Westfield’s second Parking Director. three members of the Fire Depart- ment of middle school sports. Others expansion of the Forest Road Park Vying for those three seats were: CBS MarketWatch, in a survey Is Robbed ment, including Fire Chief Richard spoke about finding room in the bud- building for senior and general pub- incumbents Mrs. Rhodes, Mrs. Riegel based on an analysis of census, hous- Regenthal, First Lieutenant Mark get for funding of the ice hockey and lic use, and possible realignment of and Beth Cassie, who was filling in ing, education and other data, named Ettore and Second Lieutenant Steve girls’ lacrosse teams. the ball field and improvement of for the un-expired term of Lisa Alter. Scotch Plains as the nation’s most At Gunpoint Szanto. After winning reelection in At this time, the board drew some operations of the skate park at Dr. Molnar decided not to run for undervalued town. November, Councilman Stuart Kline heat, as a few members of the public LaGrande Park. reelection, having served the com- Westfield Town Administrator By LAUREN S. PASS James Gildea announced that he re- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader began his seventh year on the council voiced concern that the board was February munity for 15 years as a member of while Councilman David Trumpp not paying attention to them. One the school board. ceived a letter from Westfield Me- Three men robbed Panera Bread continued in his position, after serv- Westfield resident pointed out that Former Scotch Plains Treasurer However, joining the incumbents morial Library Director Barbara on East Broad Street Monday night, ing six months after filling the posi- the board president and vice-presi- William Polidore, who embezzled for a chance at a three-year term Thiele announcing her retirement, after confronting an employee at tion made vacant by the passing of dent were talking during a resident’s $332,000 in township funds, was re- were candidates Kenneth Sumner and effective June 1. Mrs. Thiele had approximately 10:10 p.m. as he was Councilwoman Carol Wood, and time at the microphone. leased from a state prison on Febru- Bruce Regenstreich. been at the Westfield Library for 19 taking out the garbage. The employee Councilman Andrew Calamaras be- With the resignation of Third Ward ary 21 after serving a sentence of Candidates running to fill the one- years. was then ushered inside, where he gan his position, after winning his Democrat councilman Kevin Walsh, slightly more than 13 months. Mr. year un-expired term of Mrs. Alter The Scotch Plains Zoning Board and three other workers were tied up first term on the governing body. David Haas was appointed to fill the Polidore, who served in his township included newcomers Gerald of Adjustment approved plans to con- and duct taped. The Scotch Plains Township Coun- vacated seat. government post for about two years, Fahrenthold, Bruce Johnson and Julia vert the Park Place Diner at the cor- The three suspects took approxi- cil returned to full Republican con- Westfield Town Administrator was arrested in April 2001 and Burnett Walker. ner of Martine Avenue and Raritan mately $8,000 from the store safe, as trol on January 1 with the swearing- James Gildea announced that the charged with embezzlement. He Mayor Robert Viglianti stated that Road into a healthcare facility. The well as money from two of the vic- in of Frank Rossi, Nancy Malool and Redevelopment Project Review pleaded guilty that summer and in the Borough of Mountainside was Center for Hope Hospice and Pallia- tims and a gold chain belonging to Carolyn Sorge. They joined fellow Committee had narrowed the appli- January 2002 was sentenced to five able to use un-appropriated funds tive Care, which operates similar one of the victims, according to Cap- Republicans Paulette Coronato, who cants down to three teams, out of the years in prison. from the 2002 snow removal budget facilities elsewhere in Union County, tain Clifford Auchter of the Westfield was chosen as Deputy Mayor for seven that were interviewed. These The Westfield school board pro- for 2003, just in time for the major will build a 30-bed hospice care fa- Police Department. 2003, and Mayor Martin Marks. companies would receive the Re- posed a 6.5 percent tax increase and snowstorm that passed through the cility. The victims subsequently managed Shortly after the council’s reorgani- quest For Proposals (RFP) for the a $65,452,158 budget. area on Sunday, February 16, and Westfield celebrated its 100th an- to untie themselves and called 911 zation meeting, during which he de- redevelopment of the South Side A unanimous decision to reject a Monday, February 17. The mayor niversary as a town. from a cell phone. One victim sus- livered an address that focused on Train Station lot and Elm/Prospect subdivision application for 193 Cot- also noted that since New Jersey Unanimously, the Westfield Board tained a minor injury. the need for property tax reform, Street lot. tage Place was made by the Westfield Governor James McGreevy declared of Adjustment voted to deny the ap- One of the assailants was described Mayor Marks said he was interested The three lead companies, Planning Board. a state of emergency for that Monday plication of the Prospect Gardens as a Hispanic male, approximately 5 in becoming a candidate for either AmericanProperties of Woodbridge, The Fanwood council tentatively and Tuesday, there might be some project. The owner, Kenneth Goski, feet and 8 inches tall, wearing a the State Assembly or Senate in the Matrix Development Group, and approved a new contract with PBA state funds to offset the cost of snow had proposed to build 10 townhouses black jacket and a black ski mask. A November legislative elections. Nassau HKT Associates received the 123, the police union, for a new four- removal for that storm. at 247 to 259 Prospect Street, be- second was described as a black male, Councilmen Paul Mirabelli and RFP and were given one month to tween Cowperthwaite and Ferris approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a Keith Turner were both sworn in for complete them. Places, and sought 13 variances to be black ski mask, while the third was their new three-year terms in Residents of Mountainside were approved by the board. said to be a black male wearing a Mountainside. Councilman Mirabelli concerned because Valerie Saunders, Mountainside Police Captain Ri- black jacket. The perpetrators have has served the borough for six years, a 20-year employee, did not have her chard Osieja was presented a gold not been captured. and Councilman Turner has served contract as a zoning official renewed the borough for 12. for 2003.

Patrick Connor for The Westfield Leader Tola Baran for The Westfield Leader GOLDEN SHEARS…Westfield High School Principal Dr. Robert Petix and Photo Courtesy of Karen Clarkson WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS...The Westfield High School Blue Devils Boys Westfield Board of Education President Arlene Gardner, center, ceremoni- THE SOLEMNITY OF SNOW...On Presidents’ Day, blankets of snow covered Swimming Team captured the 19th State Championship, tying the team with an ously cut the ribbon to open Westfield High School’s new science wing. Looking the September 11 memorial in Westfield. The snowstorm, which has been all-time New Jersey State record with Trenton. The team stole the champion- on are Westfield Mayor Greg McDermott, State Assemblyman Eric Munoz and named the Blizzard of 2003, didn’t subside until late in the day. ship away from Cherry Hill East, 109-61. past and present members of the Board of Education. CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK Page 8 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION First Half of 2003 Recapped for WF, SP, MS and FW MerryMerry ChristmasChristmas CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Thomas Manahan was named to a velop a long-term, comprehensive Westfield Planning Board mem- Mayor Martin Marks and Demo- Judgeship. plan to alleviate the problem and ber Victor Trzesniowski, 47, passed cratic Chairman Ken Lipstein sparred With barely one-sixth of eligible pressures of student parking at the away. “mostly via the mail” about the mu- ToTo AllAll voters showing up at polling places, high school. A unanimous decision was nicipal budget that was approved in the $59.8 million Scotch Plains- The Fanwood Borough revealed granted by the Westfield Planning May. Prior to the May budget hear- From The Staff of Fanwood Board of Education budget plans to construct an addition to the Board to grant George Harbt a ing, the local Democratic Party had was approved by 197 votes. Incum- Forest Road Park recreation build- resident of Rahway Avenue, and sent a flyer to township residents the Westfield Leader bent board members Linda Nelson ing, to primarily serve as a senior the homeowner of 717 Hyslip Av- urging that they come to the hearing The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times and Thomas Russo were re-elected, citizen meeting place. enue, permission to demolish an to protest the property tax increase with Betty Ann Woerner winning The Mountainside Board of Edu- existing single-family home to being considered. After the mayor election to a first term. cation held an emergency meeting to create two conforming single-fam- sent out a letter to township residents Voters approve $68.8 million BOE discuss the transfer of funds within ily lots. This decision was made in early June explaining the reasons budget in Westfield. Voters also re- the budget, and the construction at with two conditions proposed to for the tax increase, the Democrats elected Anne Riegel, Beth Cassie Beechwood School. Paul Otto Con- the homeowner as well as the de- countered with another flyer spell- and Kimberly Rhodes. Also elected struction was hired to complete the veloper, Michael Mahoney of MM ing out their view of the municipal to a one-year term was Julia Burnett project. Real Estate Developers Incorpo- budget and tax picture and called on Walker. May rated. the Mayor to reimburse the township In an effort to inject some re- A more extensive clean-up of the for the costs of what Mr. Lipstein e newed energy into Scotch Plains The Westfield Town Council voted former Terry-Lou Zoo property be- termed a political mailing by the Horac downtown development, the coun- to approve Nassau HKT Associates gan as local officials looked forward Mayor. cil began serious discussions about of Princeton as the developer for the to the site being turned into a passive The Westfield Town Council ap- establishing a Special Improvement parking decks at South Avenue and park. The clean-up involved the re- proved an initial ordinance to pursue District (SID) in the central busi- Prospect and Elm Streets. moval of several dilapidated build- the construction of two parking decks ness district. The council received The Mountainside Council an- ings and some environmental work. during their June 17 open meeting. ave two proposals from consultants on nounced the 2003 budget for the Board of Education member, Pe- Although the ordinance doesn’t D establishing a SID and marketing Borough at $8,224,026.33. The 2003 ter Goggi was unanimously elected bind the council to build the decks, it the downtown area. budget represents a tax rate increase the new Board of Education Presi- does secure an allotment of money to d The first in a year longs worth of of 2.92 tax points. dent. Sally Revieccio was named developer HKT Nassau Associates Fre hearings begin on Temple Emanu- After a public hearing lasting Vice-President. to begin the process of assessing the El’s parking lot proposal. more than three hours, the Scotch The Westfield Town Council ap- deck proposals. Announcing their uncontested bid Plains council approved the $18.58 proved their $1.97 million capital First Ward Republican Council- elle for reelection in the November race million 2003 municipal budget that budget on second reading. The capi- man Sal Caruana was the only coun- Mich were Republican Mayor, Robert will be funded mostly by an 18- tal budget includes $120,000 for a cil member voting “no” to the Pros- Ben Viglianti and Council President, point increase in the local portion parking lot behind the National Guard pect and Elm Street location. All William Lane. Newcomer, Robert of property taxes. More than two Armory, $60,000 for carpet replace- council members approved the South tte Messler filled the seat being vacated dozen residents spoke publicly dur- ment at the Westfield Memorial Li- Avenue location. Suze by incumbent Thomas Perotta, who ing the hearing, which ended with brary, over $200,000 in equipment A second reading to purchase a chose not to run for a second term. the council’s 5-0 vote just before for the Police Department, $50,000 $600,000 multi-purpose Quint lad- aren The Westfield Town Council de- midnight and was held before the to update the currently shelved plans der truck for the Mountainside Fire K cided to change meter hours from 8 largest crowd to attend a council to revamp Memorial Park, and many Department was unanimously Rob a.m. to 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. meeting in many years. Well over other projects. passed. The truck has a 75- foot Traffic calming techniques were 100 residents crowded inside the The council also approved a capacity. ren recommended for the ShopRite grid council chambers and another 40 $25,000 expense for the design and Westfield parents, who have chil- Lau by Wilbur Smith Associates. Humps or 50 people were forced to stand improvements to their website dren in the school district, are wor- and speed tables were recommended and listen from the lobby of the through the DWC. ried about the class sizes at the el- Betsey at the T intersection at Benson Place Municipal Building. The Scotch Plains Township Plan- ementary level, specifically Franklin Mike and South Chestnut Street. Councilman Frank Rossi opened ning Board gave its approval for the School. To succinctly represent over The Westfield Town Council ap- the hearing by holding up a flyer construction of an age-restricted 30 parents, the board heard from two proved a $27,992,304 budget. On the mailed to all township residents by housing development on the so-called unofficial spokespeople. average assessed home of $180,000 the Scotch Plains Democratic Com- Broadway tract. A total of 52 homes Summarizing the concerns of par- Betsey Burgdorf, Michael Bartiromo, Robert Connelly, Horace Corbin, mittee urging them to attend the the tax increase will be $69.50. will be built on the site between ents at Franklin School, they sup- David Corbin, Ben Corbin, Karen Hinds, Fred Lecomte, Lauren Pass, Voter turnout was 32 percent for budget hearing to express their op- Jerusalem Road and the Westfield ported the reinstatement of the extra the Mountainside Board of Educa- position to what the flyer termed an border. teacher and section in the fourth Michelle Le Poidevin and Suzette Stalker tion elections, which named Pat 18 percent property tax increase. The Westfield Board of Education grade. Knodel and incumbent, Mary Beth When he asked the audience how revolved around the heated debate Though noting that Superinten- Correspondents and Photographers: Fred Rossi, Brad Tinfrow, Eliza- Schaumberg, winners of the two many were attending because they between parents and board members dent of Schools Dr. William Foley beth Correll, Ed Cooney, Michael Goldberger, Steve Krakauer, Patrick believed their property taxes were seats. about class size at the elementary was well within the guidelines in Connor, Kim Broadwell, Dale Neseman, Michelle Schackman, The 2003-2004 Mountainside going up by 18 percent, most people level. making this decision, the spokesmen school budget of $11,042,160 passed raised their hands. Mr. Rossi claimed Superintendent of Schools Will- questioned if his decision was ulti- Marylou Morano, K. Spellman Cort, Susan Dougherty, Carol Davis, with a margin of almost 200 votes. the mailing had been misleading iam Foley revealed the class size mately “optimal, or simply suffi- Andy Goldenberg, Matthew Robinson, Michael Shapiro, Matt Marino, The candidates for Westfield Town and that the actual increase will policy which states that the “range cient.” Elaine Vuono, Jim O’Connor, Michael Pollack, Jeff Siegel Council were announced. First Ward actually be significantly less. He should be between 18 and 25; lower An informational meeting was and Santa Claus. Republican Councilman Peter added that when the three entities range should be in the primary grades held to inform Scotch Plains busi- Echausse was opposed by Democrat funded by property taxes “local gov- (K-3) and the higher range in the ness owners about the potential ad- Maureen Kehoe-Rothfelder. New- ernment, county government and upper grades; account for learning vantages of forming a Special Im- comer Republican Jo Ann Neylan the board of education” are com- disabled students who are provement District (SID) in the faced off against Democrat David bined, the impact on the typical mainstreamed in academic areas; and downtown business area. The ses- Owens in the second ward. Third property owner will be 8½ to 9 provide space for art and music.” sion was part of a wider effort to Ward Democrat Councilman David percent. The Union County Police Depart- provide some momentum to a re- Haas was opposed by Republican A public meeting was held to dis- ment began constructing a new fo- newed effort to revitalize the cen- Mark Ciarrocca. Fourth Ward Demo- cuss Verizon’s bid to erect a cell rensics lab and headquarters on North tral business district. A steering crat Councilwoman Susan Jacobson tower at the Fanwood Nature Center. Avenue in Westfield. committee was formed to look into faced off against Republican James Emotions ran high at the two and a Ground was broken on the $11 the details of establishing a SID. Foerst. half hour forum, with residents voic- million, 51,209 square foot building The Westfield Town Council held The rodent problem continued, ing objections. A resolution was in October of 2002. The bad winter a short public meeting in order to with health officials offering advice passed at the monthly council meet- weather has the project approximately hold their first meeting with newly to residents on how to reduce attrac- ing rejecting the bid. three months behind schedule. selected parking developer Nassau tion in Fanwood. Mayor Louis Jung announced plans A discussion to rewrite the Town HKT Associates. The Board of Education and the to create a committee to review pro- of Westfield’s “anti-shoehorning” As the results for the 21st Legis- Town Council of Westfield have tection of the Nature Center, as well ordinance was raised, after Mayor lative District Assembly came pour- agreed to establish an Advisory Com- as increase awareness about the fa- Gregory McDermott noted the high ing in, it became more apparent the mittee on Parking to help them de- cility. number of demolitions the council incumbents would take the ballots was seeing for approval. “Shoehorn- for the Republican Party and that ing” is when two houses are built on Ellen Steinberg and Norman Albert what was once a single home lot. would emerge victorious for the Pat Knodel and Mary Beth Democrats. We’re halving... Schaumberg were both sworn in as In the Union County Freeholder members of the Mountainside Board Democrat Primary election, incum- Horace Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times of Education at the board’s re-orga- bents Deborah Scanlon, Chester CHRISTMAS JOY...The Christmas Nativity display was assembled last Satur- nizational meeting. Holmes and Alexander Mirabella day morning by the Knights of Columbus in Westfield at the train station. 50% Off Board of Education members also came out the winners. Despite the chilly morning, the group enthusiatically mastered the complex announced that they had reached an The Fanwood Historic Preserva- task. Holiday agreement with the Hartford Bond- tion Committee proceeded with its ing Company in the amount of efforts to obtain historic status for a Giftware $1,196,421 for completion of the residential section of Martine and Beechwood School Project. North Avenues. 12/24-12/31 Steve Sanislo, of the police de- Deerfield School graduation was partment, Robert Kruthers of the res- held on June 26. cue squad, and Dave Ziegler of the The mayor and council passed an fire department were honored by the ordinance authorizing the borough Borough of Fanwood as Veterans of to borrow $95,000 to repair its emer- Foreign Wars. gency services tower, which was lean- ...A Party Mountainside Board of Education ing and required structural repair. members also unanimously passed a The governing body continued a resolution to deed land at the end of discussion of the jitney shuttle bus We’re having a price halving party and Sawmill Drive to the borough for $1. service possibly beginning in the Fall you are invited! Beginning this The land will be used to build batting 2003. cages and restroom facilities. Fanwood’s summer program at Wednesday at 9 am all of our Holiday A new bed and breakfast inn, The Forest Road Park was closed due Walter Gilbert House, opened on to renovations to the recreation Giftware, Flags, Lights, Candles, North Avenue across from the building. Fanwood train station. An extremely rainy June, where Inflatables and many other items will be June rainfall totals were triple the norm, led to the cancellation and resched- 50% OffOff. (Sorry but this does not A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the uling of numerous outdoor activi- new science wing at Westfield High ties as playing fields turned to Horace Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times include Christopher Radko Ornaments). School (WHS) was held on June 11 mud, swimming pools were un- HAPPY HANUKKAH...Families from the Torah Center in Westfield led by in the recently completed student used and video stores did a boom- Rabbi Block celebrated the lighting of the Menorah Sunday evening at the train We are closed Christmas Day but will center at WHS. ing business. station in Westfield. be open again to continue the Sale on the 26th. (Denise tells me I better not cut her photo again or there’ll be Douglas M. Fasciale trouble) Certified Civil Trial Attorney Hey! Last Chance by the Supreme Court of New Jersey For Giftcards THE TIMES Buy a Concentrating in personal injury Scotch Plains - Fanwood $50 Gift Card and malpractice cases. The Westfield Leader And get a $10 Gift Card Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst & Doukas, LLP Contact our Sales Department to help you with your

FREE Attorneys At Law - A Full Service Firm advertising. By creating and sending your own PDFs and $2 OFF electronic files via e-mail, you can save on the production ILLIAMS URSERY Sn4 40 Paterson Street 116 S. Euclid Avenue & The Gift House Any Poinsettia New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Westfield, NJ 07090 cost of your ad. The ad you produce is then streamlined www.williams-nursery.com (over $10) (732) 545-4717 (908) 232-9944 into our publication with the greatest possible speed, 524 Springfield Ave accuracy and production values. Westfield • 908-232-4076 [email protected] Wed til 4 pm, Closed Christmas Day www.hoaglandlongo.com Thu-Sun 9am-5pm •Weather permitting T: 908 232 4407 • F: 908 232 0473 • [email protected] CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK MerryMerry ChristmasChristmas THE

Serving The Township and SCOTCH PLAINS - FANWOOD The Borough since 1959

timesnj.com TIMES USPS 485200 Thursday, December 25, 2003 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 FIFTY CENTS OUR 45TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 53-45 Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected]

David B. Corbin for The Times DISTRICT 11 MAT CHAMPS AGAIN…Members of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Ben Corbin for The Times CALL TO DUTY…In February, fire departments from around Union County Bill Sheppard for The Times High School wrestling team celebrate after capturing their second-straight RALLY OF SUPPORT…Members of the community gathered in Mindowaskin District 11 team championship in Westfield on March 1. Raider Steve Mineo, responded to a fire on Rivervale Court in Scotch Plains. The fire was started by Park in April in support of the troops currently fighting in Iraq. workmen in the apartment complex. Pictured above are Westfield firemen center, also won the Outstanding Wrestler Award. venting the roof. WF Chooses Redevelopment Agency; SP Begins SID Process; Board of Ed. Budgets Pass in All Towns in First Half of 2003

By KIMBERLY A. BROADWELL, Councilwoman Carol Wood, and Town Attorney Robert Cockren borough. cility. ELIZABETH CORRELL, LAUREN S. Former Scotch Plains Treasurer Councilman Andrew Calamaras be- stated that there were issues with the William Polidore, who embezzled March Westfield celebrated its 100th an- PASS and FRED ROSSI gan his position, after winning his license and Town Code. He said that niversary as a town. Specially Written for The Times $332,000 in township funds, was re- In advance of the introduction of first term on the governing body. the code prohibits alcohol to be served leased from a state prison on Febru- Unanimously, the Westfield Board Editor’s note: The following is a The Scotch Plains Township Coun- at a counter, and because the restau- the 2003 municipal budget, Scotch recap of the top news of the first half ary 21 after serving a sentence of of Adjustment voted to deny the ap- cil returned to full Republican con- rant has a sushi bar and service bar, Plains Mayor Marks warned resi- plication of the Prospect Gardens of 2003 for Westfield, Scotch Plains, slightly more than 13 months. Mr. dents they were facing “one of the trol on January 1 with the swearing- this would not comply with the code. Polidore, who served in his township project. The owner, Kenneth Goski, Mountainside and Fanwood. The in of Frank Rossi, Nancy Malool and Mountainside resident and Presi- largest, if not the largest, tax in- second half of 2003 will be featured government post for about two years, had proposed to build 10 townhouses Carolyn Sorge. They joined fellow dent of the Mountainside Board of creases in Scotch Plains history,” at 247 to 259 Prospect Street, be- in next week’s edition. was arrested in April 2001 and saying that the rise in the municipal Republicans Paulette Coronato, who Education, Richard Kress, had been charged with embezzlement. He tween Cowperthwaite and Ferris January was chosen as Deputy Mayor for notified that he would be called to portion of local property taxes was Places, and sought 13 variances to be pleaded guilty that summer and in likely to be a double-digit hike. Mayor Gregory McDermott dis- 2003, and Mayor Martin Marks. appear before the Supreme Court January 2002 was sentenced to five approved by the board. cussed the need for parking, pedes- Shortly after the council’s reorgani- Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). The Westfield Town Council ap- Mountainside Police Captain Ri- years in prison. proved a tentative 2003 budget of trian safety and field improvements zation meeting, during which he de- The Westfield Board of Education The Westfield school board pro- chard Osieja was presented a gold during his annual State of the Town livered an address that focused on heard from several residents, who $27,990,304, which included a tax watch for 25 years of service to the posed a 6.5 percent tax increase and increase of 3.86 cents per $100 of Address. He announced that eight the need for property tax reform, staunchly supported the reinstate- a $65,452,158 budget. borough at Mountainside’s monthly firms had answered the Town’s RFQs, Mayor Marks said he was interested ment of middle school sports. Others assessed home value. On the average meeting. A unanimous decision to reject a assessed home of $180,000, this in- and they would be interviewed this in becoming a candidate for either spoke about finding room in the bud- subdivision application for 193 Cot- An ordinance was passed banning year. the State Assembly or Senate in the get for funding of the ice hockey and crease came out to $69.50. advertising on municipal vehicles in tage Place was made by the Westfield A resolution was passed allowing “I anticipate that there will be a November legislative elections. girls’ lacrosse teams. Planning Board. Fanwood. shovel in the ground this year but it Councilmen Paul Mirabelli and At this time, the board drew some Mountainside Borough employees The Fanwood mayor and council The Fanwood council tentatively to receive financial incentives by will not be for a parking deck – it will Keith Turner were both sworn in for heat, as a few members of the public approved a new contract with PBA held a meeting with Comcast to dis- be for a structure that incorporates their new three-year terms in voiced concern that the board was waiving their employee health cov- cuss rate increases and programming 123, the police union, for a new four- erage. the varied economic and aesthetic Mountainside. Councilman Mirabelli not paying attention to them. One year contract. changes. elements that best serve the needs of has served the borough for six years, Westfield resident pointed out that John Morgan was hired as Westfield Republican Chairman Westfield’s second Parking Director. April this community now and in the years and Councilman Turner has served the board president and vice-presi- Jon Bramnick won his bid for the to come,” the mayor said. the borough for 12. dent were talking during a resident’s CBS MarketWatch, in a survey The Westfield Leader and The Assembly seat vacated by Tom Kean based on an analysis of census, hous- Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times re- At the annual Reorganization Saying that 2003 “will be the most time at the microphone. Jr. Meeting held on New Year’s Day at difficult budget year facing Scotch With the resignation of Third Ward ing, education and other data, named leased last edition from the Elm Street The Scotch Plains Public Library Scotch Plains as the nation’s most office. Fanwood Borough Hall, Joel Plains” in his 23 years on the job, Democrat councilman Kevin Walsh, was slightly damaged by a February Whitaker was reelected as Council Township Manager Thomas Atkins David Haas was appointed to fill the undervalued town. The Scotch Plains council intro- 26 fire that led to its closing for two Westfield Town Administrator duced its 2003 municipal budget, President, and Mayor Louis Jung warned the council that, in order to vacated seat. weeks and affected the building’s administered the Oath of Office for avoid significant property tax in- Westfield Town Administrator James Gildea announced that he re- which called for a 3.2 percent in- heating system. ceived a letter from Westfield Me- crease in spending and an 18-point three members of the Fire Depart- creases to finance this year’s munici- James Gildea announced that the The Fanwood council announced ment, including Fire Chief Richard pal budget, it might have to consider Redevelopment Project Review morial Library Director Barbara hike in the municipal portion of local plans to lease borough property for Thiele announcing her retirement, property taxes. Township officials Regenthal, First Lieutenant Mark possible reductions in services and Committee had narrowed the appli- $27,000 per year to a communica- Ettore and Second Lieutenant Steve potentially mandatory workforce re- cants down to three teams, out of the effective June 1. Mrs. Thiele had said the steep tax rise was necessi- tions company that would construct been at the Westfield Library for 19 tated by a state aid freeze, rising Szanto. After winning reelection in ductions. seven that were interviewed. These and use a communications tower. November, Councilman Stuart Kline The Westfield Town Council de- companies would receive the Re- years. fixed costs, declining revenue, low Mountainside Board of Education The Scotch Plains Zoning Board returns on investments and the gen- began his seventh year on the council cided to postpone a vote on the trans- quest For Proposals (RFP) for the members Frank Geiger and Mary while Councilman David Trumpp fer of a liquor license, which was redevelopment of the South Side of Adjustment approved plans to con- erally weak economy. Beth Schaumberg announced their vert the Park Place Diner at the cor- Former Union County Prosecutor continued in his position, after serv- previously held by Sinclair’s Restau- Train Station lot and Elm/Prospect candidacy for reelection against ing six months after filling the posi- rant, and was being sought for pur- Street lot. ner of Martine Avenue and Raritan Thomas Manahan was named to a Linda Esemplare, Patricia Knodel Road into a healthcare facility. The Judgeship. tion made vacant by the passing of chase by Fujiama Mama. The three lead companies, and Pauline Genakos. Two open seats AmericanProperties of Woodbridge, Center for Hope Hospice and Pallia- With barely one-sixth of eligible were available. tive Care, which operates similar voters showing up at polling places, Matrix Development Group, and Twenty inches of snow that fell on Nassau HKT Associates received the facilities elsewhere in Union County, the $59.8 million Scotch Plains- Presidents Day shut down the state. will build a 30-bed hospice care fa- RFP and were given one month to The Fanwood Land Use Ordinance CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 complete them. was amended to restrict use of deco- Residents of Mountainside were rative lights by retailers. concerned because Valerie Saunders, Eight Westfield candidates com- a 20-year employee, did not have her peted for a chance at one of four seats contract as a zoning official renewed on the Board of Education. for 2003. The three-year terms up for grabs The Scotch Plains council ap- had belonged to Dr. Carol Molnar, proved a resolution authorizing the Kimberly Rhodes and Anne Riegel. signing of an agreement with Vying for those three seats were: Fanwood to formalize the operation incumbents Mrs. Rhodes, Mrs. Riegel of the long-awaited shuttle bus ser- and Beth Cassie, who was filling in vice between the Fanwood train sta- for the un-expired term of Lisa Alter. tion and various points in Scotch Dr. Molnar decided not to run for Plains and Fanwood. It was expected reelection, having served the com- that the service would be operational munity for 15 years as a member of within a few months, but at year’s the school board. end, matters were still in limbo and However, joining the incumbents further decisions will be carried over for a chance at a three-year term into 2004. were candidates Kenneth Sumner and The Scotch Plains council also Bruce Regenstreich. gave brief consideration to a pro- Candidates running to fill the one- posal that would charge local non- year un-expired term of Mrs. Alter profit organizations a user fee for included newcomers Gerald their sewer use. But the initiative Fahrenthold, Bruce Johnson and Julia stalled four months later, after fig- Burnett Walker. ures provided to the township coun- Mayor Robert Viglianti stated that cil showed that the costs to the town- the Borough of Mountainside was ship and more specifically, the tax- able to use un-appropriated funds payers were less than anticipated. from the 2002 snow removal budget Robert Fairchild, a resident of the for 2003, just in time for the major Borough of Mountainside, donated a snowstorm that passed through the defibrillator to the borough in area on Sunday, February 16, and memory of his wife, Josephine. Monday, February 17. The mayor Fanwood’s Mayor Jung stated that also noted that since New Jersey the downtown revitalization project Governor James McGreevy declared would remain the administration’s a state of emergency for that Monday top priority for the year. Also listed and Tuesday, there might be some as a priority were the borough’s two state funds to offset the cost of snow parks, with planned renovation and removal for that storm. expansion of the Forest Road Park Details of the jitney bus shuttle building for senior and general pub- service were discussed at a Fanwood lic use, and possible realignment of council meeting, including person- the ball field and improvement of Patrick Connor for The Times nel and advertising. CLASS OF 2003 CELEBRATES...There were many wonderful moments for operations of the skate park at Raymond Manfra, Fanwood Di- Patrick Connor for The Times the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School graduates and families at the gradua- LaGrande Park. rector of Public Works, celebrated HANGING AROUND…Among the many activities at June’s Scotch Plains tion ceremony last June. Family Festival, children donned Velcro suits and stuck to the walls in an effort February 40 years of employment with the to develop their spider skills. CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK Page 8 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION First Half of 2003 Recapped for WF, SP, MS and FW MerryMerry ChristmasChristmas CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Fanwood Board of Education budget The Fanwood Borough revealed A unanimous decision was cratic Chairman Ken Lipstein sparred was approved by 197 votes. Incum- plans to construct an addition to the granted by the Westfield Planning “mostly via the mail” about the mu- ToTo AllAll bent board members Linda Nelson Forest Road Park recreation build- Board to grant George Harbt a nicipal budget that was approved in and Thomas Russo were re-elected, ing, to primarily serve as a senior resident of Rahway Avenue, and May. Prior to the May budget hear- From The Staff of with Betty Ann Woerner winning citizen meeting place. the homeowner of 717 Hyslip Av- ing, the local Democratic Party had election to a first term. The Mountainside Board of Edu- enue, permission to demolish an sent a flyer to township residents The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Voters approve $68.8 million BOE cation held an emergency meeting to existing single-family home to urging that they come to the hearing the Westfield Leader budget in Westfield. Voters also re- discuss the transfer of funds within create two conforming single-fam- to protest the property tax increase elected Anne Riegel, Beth Cassie the budget, and the construction at ily lots. This decision was made being considered. After the mayor and Kimberly Rhodes. Also elected Beechwood School. Paul Otto Con- with two conditions proposed to sent out a letter to township residents to a one-year term was Julia Burnett struction was hired to complete the the homeowner as well as the de- in early June explaining the reasons Walker. project. veloper, Michael Mahoney of MM for the tax increase, the Democrats In an effort to inject some re- May Real Estate Developers Incorpo- countered with another flyer spell- newed energy into Scotch Plains rated. ing out their view of the municipal downtown development, the coun- The Westfield Town Council voted A more extensive clean-up of the budget and tax picture and called on cil began serious discussions about to approve Nassau HKT Associates former Terry-Lou Zoo property be- the Mayor to reimburse the township establishing a Special Improvement of Princeton as the developer for the gan as local officials looked forward for the costs of what Mr. Lipstein e District (SID) in the central busi- parking decks at South Avenue and to the site being turned into a passive termed a political mailing by the Horac ness district. The council received Prospect and Elm Streets. park. The clean-up involved the re- Mayor. two proposals from consultants on The Mountainside Council an- moval of several dilapidated build- The Westfield Town Council ap- establishing a SID and marketing nounced the 2003 budget for the ings and some environmental work. proved an initial ordinance to pursue the downtown area. Borough at $8,224,026.33. The 2003 Board of Education member, Pe- the construction of two parking decks The first in a year longs worth of budget represents a tax rate increase ter Goggi was unanimously elected during their June 17 open meeting. ave hearings begin on Temple Emanu- of 2.92 tax points. the new Board of Education Presi- Although the ordinance doesn’t D El’s parking lot proposal. After a public hearing lasting dent. Sally Revieccio was named bind the council to build the decks, it Announcing their uncontested bid more than three hours, the Scotch Vice-President. does secure an allotment of money to d for reelection in the November race Plains council approved the $18.58 The Westfield Town Council ap- developer HKT Nassau Associates Fre were Republican Mayor, Robert million 2003 municipal budget that proved their $1.97 million capital to begin the process of assessing the Viglianti and Council President, will be funded mostly by an 18- budget on second reading. The capi- deck proposals. William Lane. Newcomer, Robert point increase in the local portion tal budget includes $120,000 for a First Ward Republican Council- elle Messler filled the seat being vacated of property taxes. More than two parking lot behind the National Guard man Sal Caruana was the only coun- Mich by incumbent Thomas Perotta, who dozen residents spoke publicly dur- Armory, $60,000 for carpet replace- cil member voting “no” to the Pros- Ben chose not to run for a second term. ing the hearing, which ended with ment at the Westfield Memorial Li- pect and Elm Street location. All The Westfield Town Council de- the council’s 5-0 vote just before brary, over $200,000 in equipment council members approved the South tte cided to change meter hours from 8 midnight and was held before the for the Police Department, $50,000 Avenue location. Suze a.m. to 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. largest crowd to attend a council to update the currently shelved plans A second reading to purchase a Traffic calming techniques were meeting in many years. Well over to revamp Memorial Park, and many $600,000 multi-purpose Quint lad- aren recommended for the ShopRite grid 100 residents crowded inside the other projects. der truck for the Mountainside Fire K by Wilbur Smith Associates. Humps council chambers and another 40 The council also approved a Department was unanimously Rob and speed tables were recommended or 50 people were forced to stand $25,000 expense for the design and passed. The truck has a 75- foot at the T intersection at Benson Place and listen from the lobby of the improvements to their website capacity. ren and South Chestnut Street. Municipal Building. through the DWC. Westfield parents, who have chil- Lau The Westfield Town Council ap- Councilman Frank Rossi opened The Scotch Plains Township Plan- dren in the school district, are wor- proved a $27,992,304 budget. On the the hearing by holding up a flyer ning Board gave its approval for the ried about the class sizes at the el- Betsey average assessed home of $180,000 mailed to all township residents by construction of an age-restricted ementary level, specifically Franklin Mike the tax increase will be $69.50. the Scotch Plains Democratic Com- housing development on the so-called School. To succinctly represent over Voter turnout was 32 percent for mittee urging them to attend the Broadway tract. A total of 52 homes 30 parents, the board heard from two the Mountainside Board of Educa- budget hearing to express their op- will be built on the site between unofficial spokespeople. position to what the flyer termed tion elections, which named Pat Jerusalem Road and the Westfield Summarizing the concerns of par- Betsey Burgdorf, Michael Bartiromo, Robert Connelly, Horace Corbin, an 18 percent property tax increase. ents at Franklin School, they sup- Knodel and incumbent, Mary Beth border. David Corbin, Ben Corbin, Karen Hinds, Fred Lecomte, Lauren Pass, Schaumberg, winners of the two When he asked the audience how The Westfield Board of Education ported the reinstatement of the extra seats. many were attending because they revolved around the heated debate teacher and section in the fourth Michelle Le Poidevin and Suzette Stalker The 2003-2004 Mountainside believed their property taxes were between parents and board members grade. school budget of $11,042,160 passed going up by 18 percent, most people about class size at the elementary Though noting that Superinten- Correspondents and Photographers: Fred Rossi, Brad Tinfrow, Eliza- raised their hands. Mr. Rossi claimed with a margin of almost 200 votes. level. dent of Schools Dr. William Foley beth Correll, Ed Cooney, Michael Goldberger, Steve Krakauer, Patrick the mailing had been misleading was well within the guidelines in The candidates for Westfield Town Superintendent of Schools Will- Connor, Kim Broadwell, Dale Neseman, Michelle Schackman, Council were announced. First Ward and that the actual increase will iam Foley revealed the class size making this decision, the spokesmen Republican Councilman Peter actually be significantly less. He policy which states that the “range questioned if his decision was ulti- Marylou Morano, K. Spellman Cort, Susan Dougherty, Carol Davis, Echausse was opposed by Democrat added that when the three entities should be between 18 and 25; lower mately “optimal, or simply suffi- Andy Goldenberg, Matthew Robinson, Michael Shapiro, Matt Marino, Maureen Kehoe-Rothfelder. New- funded by property taxes “local gov- range should be in the primary grades cient.” Elaine Vuono, Jim O’Connor, Michael Pollack, Jeff Siegel ernment, county government and comer Republican Jo Ann Neylan (K-3) and the higher range in the An informational meeting was and Santa Claus. faced off against Democrat David the board of education” are com- upper grades; account for learning held to inform Scotch Plains busi- Owens in the second ward. Third bined, the impact on the typical disabled students who are ness owners about the potential ad- Ward Democrat Councilman David property owner will be 8½ to 9 mainstreamed in academic areas; and vantages of forming a Special Im- Haas was opposed by Republican percent. provide space for art and music.” provement District (SID) in the Mark Ciarrocca. Fourth Ward Demo- A public meeting was held to dis- The Union County Police Depart- downtown business area. The ses- crat Councilwoman Susan Jacobson cuss Verizon’s bid to erect a cell ment began constructing a new fo- sion was part of a wider effort to faced off against Republican James tower at the Fanwood Nature Center. rensics lab and headquarters on North provide some momentum to a re- Foerst. Emotions ran high at the two and a Avenue in Westfield. newed effort to revitalize the cen- The rodent problem continued, half hour forum, with residents voic- Ground was broken on the $11 tral business district. A steering with health officials offering advice ing objections. A resolution was million, 51,209 square foot building committee was formed to look into to residents on how to reduce attrac- passed at the monthly council meet- in October of 2002. The bad winter the details of establishing a SID. tion in Fanwood. ing rejecting the bid. weather has the project approxi- The Westfield Town Council held The Board of Education and the Mayor Louis Jung announced plans mately three months behind sched- a short public meeting in order to Town Council of Westfield have to create a committee to review pro- ule. hold their first meeting with newly agreed to establish an Advisory Com- tection of the Nature Center, as well A discussion to rewrite the Town selected parking developer Nassau mittee on Parking to help them de- as increase awareness about the fa- of Westfield’s “anti-shoehorning” HKT Associates. velop a long-term, comprehensive cility. ordinance was raised, after Mayor As the results for the 21st Legis- plan to alleviate the problem and Westfield Planning Board mem- Gregory McDermott noted the high lative District Assembly came pour- pressures of student parking at the ber Victor Trzesniowski, 47, passed number of demolitions the council ing in, it became more apparent the high school. away. was seeing for approval. “Shoehorn- incumbents would take the ballots ing” is when two houses are built on for the Republican Party and that what was once a single home lot. Ellen Steinberg and Norman Albert Pat Knodel and Mary Beth would emerge victorious for the Schaumberg were both sworn in as Democrats. We’re halving... members of the Mountainside Board In the Union County Freeholder HOLIDAY JOY...Brunner students in Scotch Plains, Haley Nakonechny, Justin of Education at the board’s re-orga- Democrat Primary election, incum- Cunningham and Caiti Hesson display a tray of the gingerbread cookies that the nizational meeting. bents Deborah Scanlon, Chester Pre-K class helped to make. The cookies were donated to the Interfaith Council Board of Education members also Holmes and Alexander Mirabella for the Homeless in Plainfield. The young bakers are hoping that their cookies 50% Off announced that they had reached an came out the winners. will make the families “smile” and “feel happy” during the holiday season. agreement with the Hartford Bond- The Fanwood Historic Preserva- Holiday ing Company in the amount of tion Committee proceeded with its $1,196,421 for completion of the efforts to obtain historic status for a Giftware Beechwood School Project. residential section of Martine and Steve Sanislo, of the police de- North Avenues. 12/24-12/31 partment, Robert Kruthers of the res- Deerfield School graduation was cue squad, and Dave Ziegler of the held on June 26. fire department were honored by the The mayor and council passed an Borough of Fanwood as Veterans of ordinance authorizing the borough Foreign Wars. to borrow $95,000 to repair its emer- Mountainside Board of Education gency services tower, which was lean- ...A Party members also unanimously passed a ing and required structural repair. resolution to deed land at the end of The governing body continued a We’re having a price halving party and Sawmill Drive to the borough for $1. discussion of the jitney shuttle bus The land will be used to build batting service possibly beginning in the Fall you are invited! Beginning this cages and restroom facilities. 2003. A new bed and breakfast inn, The Fanwood’s summer program at Wednesday at 9 am all of our Holiday Walter Gilbert House, opened on Forest Road Park was closed due North Avenue across from the to renovations to the recreation Giftware, Flags, Lights, Candles, Fanwood train station. building. June An extremely rainy June, where Inflatables and many other items will be rainfall totals were triple the norm, A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the led to the cancellation and resched- 50% OffOff. (Sorry but this does not new science wing at Westfield High uling of numerous outdoor activi- School (WHS) was held on June 11 ties as playing fields turned to SANTA’S HELPER...Senior DECA member Ryan Weber, dressed as Santa, include Christopher Radko Ornaments). in the recently completed student mud, swimming pools were un- delivered holiday joy to 20 children. All of the gifts were donated from the center at WHS. used and video stores did a boom- community through the annual toy drive. We are closed Christmas Day but will Mayor Martin Marks and Demo- ing business. be open again to continue the Sale on the 26th. (Denise tells me I better not cut her photo again or there’ll be Douglas M. Fasciale trouble) Certified Civil Trial Attorney Hey! Last Chance by the Supreme Court of New Jersey For Giftcards THE TIMES Buy a Concentrating in personal injury Scotch Plains - Fanwood $50 Gift Card and malpractice cases. The Westfield Leader And get a Contact our Sales Department to help you with your $10 Gift Card Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst & Doukas, LLP

FREE Attorneys At Law - A Full Service Firm advertising. By creating and sending your own PDFs and electronic files via e-mail, you can save on the production ILLIAMS URSERY $2 OFF Sn4 40 Paterson Street 116 S. Euclid Avenue cost of your ad. The ad you produce is then streamlined & The Gift House Any Poinsettia New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Westfield, NJ 07090 www.williams-nursery.com (over $10) (732) 545-4717 (908) 232-9944 into our publication with the greatest possible speed, 524 Springfield Ave accuracy and production values. Westfield • 908-232-4076 [email protected] Wed til 4 pm, Closed Christmas Day www.hoaglandlongo.com Thu-Sun 9am-5pm •Weather permitting T: 908 232 4407 • F: 908 232 0473 • [email protected] CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK Page 2 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION SPF BOE Acts on Affirmative Action By MICHELLE SCHACKMAN because a state mandate is accompa- Specially Written for The Times nied by money from the state given On Thursday night, the Scotch to the school district to help execute Plains Board of Education (BOE) wel- the order. comed Mr. Robert Raiford into retire- The state requested that the Scotch ment, had active debate in adopting Plains-Fanwood Board of Education an affirmative action team and pass- vote on the affirmative action pro- ing new standardized testing of the gram. It is not a mandate nor accom- second grade. Since the December 11 panied with financing. The board BOE meeting was cancelled due to was concerned that, if they did not the football team playoff game at approve it, the district would be pe- Giant Stadium, the meeting was nalized financially in other manners packed with important matters. by the state. The BOE released Personnel Spe- Another issue that stirred discus- RED CROSS GOLF...Committee members prepare for the Inaugural Ultimate cialist Robert Raiford from his re- sion was a motion to approve new CHANCE MEETING...N.J. Senator Frank Lautenberg visits the newly com- Par 3 Shootout to benefit the Westfield/Mountainside Chapter of the American sponsibilities and welcomed him into standardized testing for the second pleted Secaucus train station and poses with commuter Phil Falcone of Westfield. Red Cross, held in October at the Hamilton Farms Hickory Course in Gladstone. retirement. Mr. Raiford was involved Pictured above, from the left, are: Senator Lautenberg and Mr. Falcone. Pictured, from the left, are: Dennis Kinsella, Executive Director, Westfield/ grade students — scheduled for the Mountainside Chapter of the American Red Cross, Dr. John Tobachnick, board in the Human Resources and Person- spring. Assistant Superintendent of member and Golf Chairman and Leigh Schmalz, S&A Event Services. nel departments since 1983. He was Instruction, Dr. Margaret Hayes, was spoken highly of by board members confident that the new tests would Freeholders Honor Scanlon; and by some of his office staff. benefit the students. It would iden- American Red Cross Sets 2004 Several spoke on his behalf during tify problem areas of studies for indi- the public comment period of the vidual students. Magnet Awarded Resolution meeting. Mr. Raiford was described “The tests are closely aligned with Charity Golf Course Locations as “gentlemanly and kind.” Board the curriculum content standards, and By MATT MARINO chair, we have had a woman to chair President Lance Porter called him they will predict which students need Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times it, and we look forward to the first WESTFIELD — the Westfield/ for this event ranged in distance from “an angel of love and dedication who attention for the state exam the stu- The final Freeholder meeting for Latino (Freeholder Estrada) to chair. Mountainside Chapter of the Ameri- 135 yards to 182 yards. worked hard and thoughtfully to re- dents take in the third grade,” Dr. 2003 was held on December 18. It says a lot about the kind of board can Red Cross has established the Area automobile dealerships pro- solve human resource issues that arose Hayes said. Much of the meeting was dedicated this really is,” commented Freeholder golf course locations for their 2004 vided the golfers with an opportu- during his time serving the Scotch She relayed that the new tests, to honoring Freeholder Chairwoman Mingo. charity benefits. All individuals and nity to win a luxury automobile with Plains-Fanwood school district.” which are age appropriate and take Deborah Scanlon for her year of ser- All of the freeholders wished the businesses are invited to partici- a hole-in-one on each of the 18 par 3 Mr. Randall Kanter will replace less time to administer than the pre- vice as the chairperson of the board, public a happy holiday season, with pate. holes. The course out in 2003, with Mr. Raiford in a newly established vious testing system, will be sent out and reflecting on 2003 in Union Freeholder Mingo adding that dur- The “Par 3 Shootout” will be held the closest tee shot coming up 28 position — the district’s Affirmative to the private publisher of the tests to County. ing the holidays, “You really have to at Hamilton Farm in September. The inches shy of a new set of car keys for Action Officer. be scored. Therefore, teachers will Before the meeting officially be- be safe. They say it takes a village to “Classic Golf Tour” will be com- the golfers. Stirred discussion ensued during a not be additionally burdened. gan, the Freeholders recognized the raise a child, but it also takes a vil- prised of the five golf clubs: Moun- The “Ultimate Par 3 Shootout” is debate involving the formation of an In the business portion of the meet- Union County Magnet High School lage to protect a community.” tain Ridge Country Club, Somerset an offshoot of its older brother, the affirmative action team. Superinten- ing, a bid was awarded to R.D. Ar- for an award the school received “The residents can (protect a com- Hills Country Club, Plainfield Coun- annual “American Red Cross Classic dent Carol Choye moved that the chitectural Products for $1,004,800 from Governor Jim McGreevey. The munity). Be vigilant during this try Club, Baltusrol Golf Club and Golf Tour” which features play at BOE approve the formation of an for the installation of new windows award – which was bestowed to only holiday…making sure you have a Hamilton Farm Golf Club. five of New Jersey’s premier golf affirmative action team, which would at Park Middle School. The work is five high schools in the state – was safe holiday, and if you do, there’s a To join in these events, to be a courses over a six-month period. The be authorized to conduct an assess- expected to begin during the winter for excellence in education, and it very good chance you’ll have a sponsor and/or to obtain more infor- single-day shootout event affords all ment of the district. months and continue through the came in the amount of $25,000. healthy holiday, and a very happy mation, please call Dennis Kinsella golfers the chance to participate – in The team is to develop a Compre- summer. Freeholder Rick Proctor presented holiday.” of the Red Cross in Westfield at (908) that they otherwise may not be able hensive Equity Plan for 2004-2005 The BOE also accepted the Cor- the resolution to Dr. Thomas County Manager George Devanney 232-7090 or Leigh Schmalz of S&A to commit to the five-event tour. and 2006-2007 as part of an “unoffi- rective Action Plan presented by Bistocchi, the superintendent of the thanked Chairwoman Scanlon for her Event Services at (973) 379-3239. “We could not be more pleased cial mandate” from the state. This Barre and Company as part of the Magnet School. He lauded the dis- leadership this past year, particu- In 2003 this past fall, the inaugural with the response to our first Par 3 motion carried, but not without sev- Auditor’s Management Report. At tinction given to the school and noted larly when it came to dealing with “Ultimate Par 3 Shootout” was held Shootout,” said Dennis Kinsella, eral board members voicing their the November 20 BOE meeting, that the people associated with the tough situations in Union County. to benefit the Westfield/Mountainside American Red Cross Director for the opinions that the district has an over- Barre and Company suggested five school are proud of how important it “Of all the times and all the chal- Chapter of the American Red Cross. Westfield/Mountainside Chapter. “I whelming amount of reports that are minor alterations in order to com- has become in Union County. lenges we had, being able to pick up This unique charity golf event was fully expect this event to grow and “mandated” or “unofficially man- plete the audit of the school district. “Anyone who has been to the gradu- the phone and call you, the positive held at the world-renowned Hamilton mature like the Classic Golf Tour has dated” by the state. They feel that The Corrective Action Plan, under ations for the Magnet School are attitude that you brought...was in- Farms Hickory Course in Gladstone over its six-year history. With the these reports require excessive the supervision of Business Admin- aware of the enthusiasm that the valuable,” said Mr. Devanney. – the only United States Golf Asso- support of our event sponsor, amounts of time outside the normal istrator Anthony Del Sordi, will fol- faculty and the students have,” noted Finally, it was time for Chair- ciation rated par 3 course in the U.S. LabCorp, the automobile dealers and working day. low through on the recommended Freeholder Proctor. woman Scanlon to give her final Golfers played a par 3 venue that our players, the Red Cross can con- Board member Edward Saridaki adjustments. Following the presentation, the address to the public as chair. She rivals many traditional courses in tinue to serve the needs of area fami- described the “unofficial mandate” The BOE will reconvene on Janu- Freeholder board made a surprise discussed the various achievements beauty and difficulty. The 18 holes lies and individuals.” as different from a state mandate, ary 8 for the Open Agenda Meeting. resolution presentation to Freeholder of 2003, starting with the fact that Scanlon for her year of service head- Union County had reached its goal

E WATCH ing the board. Freeholder Mirabella of preserving 100 acres of open space. G TH UNG IN FOR M explained the difficulty that comes She added that preservation of open W WEDDING DREAMS TS IE . V with serving as chair of the board. space will continue to be a priority Two inseparable pens attached at the hinge. “I know sitting in that seat, how for the freeholders. difficult it can be. You’ve worked She also referenced the September O 6 2 On one end a black gel ink rollerball and F 7 F 7 hard and provided leadership to this 11th Memorial at Echo Lake Park, 2 - 2 22 on the other a yellow document marker. S 3 county,” said Freeholder Mirabella. which was completed in time for the CO INS TCH PLA Slips conveniently into your pocket. Freeholder Vice-Chair Angel two-year anniversary of the terrorist Estrada, who will take over as chair attacks on America. Going along with in 2004, also recognized the achieve- that theme, Chairwoman Scanlon told ments of Chairwoman Scanlon. of the assistance provided to men “It’s important to reflect on a year and women in the military. that had its ups and downs. You al- “We paid the difference between ways kept your cool. You commanded county and military pay for soldiers, $ 25.00 the ship in the right direction. There with full health benefits,” she said. is a level of dedication that the chair- Other notable developments in 2003 person has to provide to this board, addressed included the contribution and you have been exemplary,” said of first responder equipment to the Freeholder Estrada. county municipalities; the “Preserve Chairwoman Scanlon acknowl- Union County” grant program for edged that all of the freeholders and historic places; and the construction various departments have worked at Trailside Museum to triple the size together as a team, and that her expe- of the facility, along with plans for the riences as chair have been solid. children’s museum in Union Town- Christmas Day Buffet “It’s such an honor to serve…the ship. people of Union County. Serving as Chairwoman Scanlon also an- chairwoman has certainly given me nounced the purchased of a “literacy Includes Chef carved Prime Rib, Lamb, Ham, Turkey. a new perspective on government, and technology” vehicle for use by and a good one.” the County. According to the infor- All you can eat Shrimp & Clams, Viennese Table. Following the standard portion of mation provided, the vehicle will the meeting – the routine passage of travel to different areas in Union $ 95 Unfold, push, twist, and write or highlight! resolutions - the Freeholders reflected County to supplement the children’s 24 per person on the past year, particularly as it literacy and technology learning pro- IDENT related to leadership of the board. grams. She deemed it a “classroom OfficialS IA PRESIDENTIAL PE N E Freeholder Lewis Mingo pointed out on wheels.” R L P112 Central Avenue, Westfield NJ P NorthP Pole 908-317-9600 the similarities between the Free- In ending her comments, Chair- holder board and Union County’s woman Scanlon once again thanked Letter Please call on us: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday population. the freeholders for their services. New Years Eve 2004 “We have a very diverse OutpostP E N 10:00 am to 5:30 pm “I couldn’t be prouder of this board Thursday- 10:00 am to 8:00 pm County…over half a million people, for all of their hard work and dedica- Sundays thru 12/31/03 -12 pm to 5 pm and all types of representation. We tion to all the people of Union County,” Open Bar: 8:30 - 2:30, Full Course Prime Rib Dinner including have had an African-American as commented Chairwoman Scanlon. Shrimp Cocktail, Salad, Dessert. Live D.J.’s In Rooms. Includes  Donate Your Car Champagne Toast, Hats & Novelties ´$0$DSSURYHGLQµ Please Call On Us During Tickets must be purchased and paid for in advance. No phone reservations accepted.  Our Extended Holiday Hours: Westfield / Mountainside Chapter FF $ 00 SNU 'YS Help Can’t Wait 61 per person &/,1,&$/10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Call: 1-888-999-HELP (4357) (plus tax, service & gratuities) One Call Does It All

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Sunday: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Visit our website at: www.weddingsatpantagis.com  Network not available in all areas. Calls placed while off the America’s Choice network $.69/min. Mobile to mobile not available throughout the America’s Choice network. Requires CDMA tri-mode phone with updated software. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, December 25, 2003 Page 3 FW Planning Bd. Approves AT&T Cellular Antennae by ELAINE VUONO application, stated he did not believe Specially Written for The Times that their expert demonstrated that a By a 5-2 margin, the Fanwood coverage gap does exist, nor did they Planning Board approved an appli- adequately establish that alternate cation at their regular meeting last sites discussed were not appropriate. Wednesday evening to allow AT&T Also opposing the application, to install cellular antennas on a board member Richard Hopkins stated PSE&G tower near La Grande Av- that the equipment compound would enue, adjacent to Brohm Place. be an intrusion and noted that as there The application, which received are already three carriers with anten- virtually no public opposition, is the nas in the small borough, he felt second cellular antenna installation AT&T’s antennas should be located to be approved by the board this in a nearby municipality instead. year. An application by Verizon to At the suggestion of board mem- TONS OF TURKEYS…Union County Sheriff Ralph Froehlich shows some of the install antennas on a tower near North ber Nancy Koederitz, AT&T will seek 200 turkeys and more than 100 cases of canned food from a surprise donation to Avenue - which was strongly op- permission from PSE&G to locate his “Operation Breadbasket” program December 18 in Elizabeth. “Operation posed by neighbors - was approved the equipment compound directly Breadbasket” feeds hundreds of needy families and senior citizens every holiday Ben Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times by the board. The borough council under the tower to make it less intru- season. Sheriff Froehlich started the program with a few colleagues when he was CREATING QUIET ZONES…Congressman Mike Ferguson announced Tues- then overturned it after the neigh- a sergeant in the Elizabeth Police Department more than 30 years ago. day morning, at the train tracks on Rahway Avenue at Lamberts Mill Road in sive. However, relocation of the com- bors appealed the decision to the pound is not a condition of approval Westfield, a new ruling by the Federal Railroad Administration. In low-risk- governing body. collision areas or with specific upgrades to lessen the risk, the new rule looks to of the application. Stender’s World Trade Center provide flexibility in creating quiet zones while insuring the safety of the AT&T’s application requested In other business, the board heard community. Congressman Ferguson spoke to area residents along with Westfield permission to install twelve cellular the continued application of Mayor Gregory McDermott, Councilman-Elect Jim Foerst, Councilman An- antennas at a height of 118 feet on Woodcliff Inc., for approval of a Bill Passes the NJ Legislature drew Skibitsky and Councilman-Elect Mark Ciarrocca. the 126-foot tower. Additionally, a five-lot subdivision at 33 Ginder fenced in equipment compound Place, to allow the building of five SCOTCH PLAINS – On Decem- advocacy group wish to see the re- would be built at the base of the new homes. ber 15 legislation sponsored by As- mains placed in containers to be Designated Drivers Are tower. The compound’s dimensions Residents who live near the pro- semblywoman Linda Stender and shipped back to the World Trade were originally to measure 10 by 25 posed development, which is adja- Assemblyman Neil Cohen, which Center site for permanent burial. feet, but were reduced to 10 by 20 cent to the Cedar Brook and near the requires the Port Authority of New “Passing this legislation was a huge Recommended For Holidays feet, after Vice Chairman John Deitch Fanwood-Scotch Plains border, have York and New Jersey to use the trans- grass roots movement made up of objected to the excessive size of the voiced concerns at prior meetings ported remains of September 11, 2001 organizations, individuals and reli- CLARK – This time of year, many or for volunteer opportunities, call compound. that the development will worsen victims from the World Trade Center gious groups. Our legislators listened people attend parties where alcohol (732) 381-4100 or check out the The applicant had requested three flooding in their neighborhood. in a memorial, passed both houses of and drugs may be readily available. and responded to us. They were brave website at www.preventionlinks.org. variances — the primary one, a use During hearings on the applica- the New Jersey legislature and is and moral in passing this legisla- According to the 2002 National Sur- variance — as the antennas are not tion - which began back in July - the currently awaiting the Governor’s tion,” said the Hornings. vey on Drug Use and Health, ap- Post Office to Accept permitted in a residential zone. applicant has presented several al- approval. proximately 1 in 7 (or 33.5 million) Passport Applications Throughout the course of the hear- ternate site plans, including varia- “The events of September 11, 2001 WHS TV Announces Americans drove after using alcohol ings, which began at the board’s tions of a proposed underground de- must never be forgotten. We must or illicit drugs at least once in the WESTFIELD – On Monday, Janu- August meeting, AT&T presented tention/retention system to alleviate honor the victims of that terrible day Holiday Schedule previous 12 months. Even one drink ary 5, 2004, the Westfield Post Of- expert testimony to demonstrate that the flooding in the area. with a fitting memorial,” said As- WESTFIELD – Westfield High can slow reflexes and jeopardize your fice will begin to accept passport installation of the antennas is neces- Although counsel for the applicant semblywoman Stender. “Any struc- School (WHS) TV-36 has announced safety and those with you. applications during its regular win- sary due to a significant gap in cov- was able to complete the presentation ture built to commemorate their its holiday week schedule that will According to Bill Hilinksy, Coun- dow business hours. erage, which exists for their cellular of their witnesses, due to the lateness deaths would lack any real signifi- feature holiday concerts, a tour of selor at Prevention Links, “It may The Westfield Post Office, located customers. of the hour, time for public questions cance if the ashen remains were not the high school science wing, a panel surprise you to know that you don’t at 153 Central Avenue, will process A radio frequency expert hired by and comments elapsed. returned.” discussion on drug abuse, and Board need to drink much alcohol before both first time applications and re- the board, James Gross, presented an As the composition of the board Assemblywoman Stender was in- of Education meetings. your driving ability is affected. Cer- newals. independent report to the board, which will change in 2004, there was much spired to sponsor A-2753 after being The panel discussion on drug and tain driving skills can be impaired by With enhanced travel security, concurred with AT&T’s assertion that discussion whether additional time contacted by Kurt and Diane Horning alcohol abuse, led by WHS Student blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) passports are the prime accepted iden- there was a coverage gap that causes should be allotted at the meeting to of Scotch Plains. The Hornings lost Assistance Counselor Maureen as low as 0.02 percent. A 160 pound tification for travelers. The Westfield customers to have blocked and allow for full presentation of public their only son Matthew in the attack Mazzarese, will be broadcast Satur- male will have BAC of about 0.04 Post Office is offering its customers dropped calls — and that the pro- comment. At issues was if the cur- on the World Trade Center. day, December 27, at 12 noon and 9 percent one hour after drinking two this additional service in conjunc- posed site would fill the gap. rent board should vote on the appli- “We are so grateful to the state of p.m., and on Sunday, December 28 12-ounce beers or two other standard tion with the Department of State. Under the Telecommunications cation or if the matter should be New Jersey. We have felt from the at 2 p.m. drinks on an empty stomach.” “Our customers are the reason Act of 1996, a municipality cannot carried until next year for consider- beginning that New Jersey has lis- A walking tour of the new science Don’t become a statistic this holi- we’re in business, and providing them refuse a carrier’s request to install ation by the new board. tened to us and that they cared,” said wing at WHS will be shown Tuesday, day season. Designate a driver who with an extra service like passports is cellular antennas without a reason- Ultimately, counsel for the appli- Kurt and Diane Horning. “New Jer- December 23, at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; will abstain from consuming alco- an opportunity for the Postal Service able basis. cant, Robert Kraus, of Leib, Kraus, sey showed its true moral fiber today. Thursday, December 25, at 2 p.m. holic beverages or take the lead and to serve the needs of our commu- Those board members who voted Grispin & Roth, indicated that his It’s everything we thought of our and 10 p.m.; Saturday, December refrain from drinking yourself. De- nity,” said Westfield Postmaster Ken- for the application stated that they client would withdraw the applica- state.” 27, at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sun- cember has been designated National neth Brown. believed the applicant demonstrated tion and re-file next year for full The Hornings and their group, day, December 28, at 4 p.m. Drunk and Drugged Prevention Postmaster Brown offered these that a coverage gap exists and also consideration before the new board. World Trade Center Families for a The December 16 Board of Edu- Month (3D) in the hopes of raising tips when applying for a passport: that the installation would not require The board also approved an appli- Proper Burial, began advocating for cation meeting was taped and will be awareness of the risks associated with Fill out the passport application the building of any additional towers. cation for a minor subdivision at protection of the ashen remains after shown in its entirety on Thursday, driving after drinking or using drugs. (DS11) before coming to the post Additionally, board member John North Martine Avenue and 214 Pater- learning about the possibility of per- December 25, at 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. To learn more about the consequences office. Individuals can download it Celardo noted that the application son Road and an application for a manent placement at the Fresh Kills and on Tuesday, December 30, at 11 of driving while under the influence, from http://travel.state.gov/ did not receive any public opposition, deck at 193 LaGrande Avenue. Landfill in Staten Island, NY. All a.m. and 7 p.m. or for more information about the download_applications.html. unlike the Verizon application. The next meeting of the planning remains were shipped to the landfill Westfield High School’s winter effects of combining medicine and Bring proof of United States citi- Mr. Deitch, who voted against the board will be held on January 28, shortly after the attacks and have not concerts will be shown at various alcohol or to get a referral for some- zenship and present proof of iden- 2004 at 8:00 p.m. in the borough been incorporated into any 9-11 times during the holiday week be- one who has a drinking problem and tity. council chambers. memorial. The Hornings and their fore or after the above programs. needs professional support, contact Provide two passport photos (also WF Parking Office Prevention Links at (732) 381-4100. available at the Westfield Post Of- Prevention Links is a private not fice). Individuals should have all To Extend Hours for profit agency which takes a lead- documents with them. The Parking Services Office will ership role throughout Union County All information on passport appli- be open the following Saturdays: in the prevention of alcohol, tobacco, cations, procedures and fees may be December 27, January 3 and Janu- drug abuse and other related issues obtained by contacting the Post Of- ary 10 for permit renewals. The and serves as a provider for the Union fice, or on the Internet at office will also have extended County IDRC (Intoxicated Driver www.usps.com by clicking on the hours on Thursday, January 8 un- Recovery Centers) program. For “government link” page and then til 8:00 p.m. more information about the agency clicking on “get a passport.” Page 4 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

The ABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ Scotch Plains – Fanwood The Westfield Leader TIMES Letters to the Editor — Established 1890 — — Established 1959— DD The Official Newspaper of the Town of Westfield Official Newspaper of the Borough of Fanwood Senior Thanks All And Hopes to Get DDTM and the Township of Scotch Plains Diction Deception Member of: Member of: New Jersey Press Association New Jersey Press Association • National Newspaper Association Christmas Tree Back Sometime Below are four arcane words, each National Newspaper Association Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce Your publication of my letter in your Every other senior citizen complex in with four definitions – only one is cor- Fanwood Business & Professional Association newspaper on December 11, entitled our area that is overseen by the Fair rect. The others are made up. Are you Periodicals – Postage Paid at Westfield, New Jersey Periodicals – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, New Jersey “Who Stole Christmas,” resulted in an Housing and Urban Development Corp. sharp enough to discern this deception P.O. Box 250 • 251 North Avenue, West P. O. Box 368 • 1906 Bartle Avenue outpouring of responses — verbally and is celebrating its holiday without inter- of diction? Westfield, N.J. 07091 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 in the form of letters from both senior ruption — including displaying the If you can guess one correctly – good guess. If you get two – well-read indi- Tele: (908) 232-4407 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.goleader.com • Fax: (908) 232-0473 citizens buildings at the Westfield com- Christmas tree and the menorah. plex and from your readers, as well. I am thankful to everyone for his or vidual. If you get three – word expert. If POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at As you know, each celebration - Christ- her support. I am also very grateful to you get all four – You must have a lot of P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091 mas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa - has its you for your assistance. free time! PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY BY WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. own special meaning and message. Hope- Merry Christmas! All words and correct definitions fully, we will get our Christmas tree and come from the board game Diction Sasha Schwarz Deception. Michelle H. Le Poidevin Horace R. Corbin Fred K. Lecomte menorah back — If not in 2003, then in Westfield A&E and EDUCATION PUBLISHER MARKETING DIRECTOR the following years. Answers to last week’s arcane words. Suzette F. Stalker David B. Corbin Michael L. Bartiromo 1. Garrote – To strangle 2. Riparious – Growing or living along COMMUNITY ASSISTANT PUBLISHER & SPORTS MARKETING & PRODUCTION North Avenue Resident Calls For the banks of a stream Lauren S. Pass Karen M. Hinds Robert P. Connelly 3. Cymophanous – Having a wavy, ASSIGNMENT EDITOR OFFICE MANAGER MANAGER, BUSINESS SYSTEMS Pedestrian Safety Action floating light Ben Corbin While I am saddened by the deaths of arteries to town. Lawrence Avenue was 4. Rhapontic – Rhubarb SUBSCRIPTION PRICE SERVICES the two pedestrians that perished on near the top of the list. North Avenue recently, I’m far from Some of this may be blamed on the ZAX One-year – $28 • Two-year – $52 • Three-year – $76 • One-year college (September to May) – $20 shocked. As an eight year resident on fact that North Avenue is a county road 1. A blister beetle this street — one of the town’s busiest in spots. This was also the excuse I was 2. An instrument for trimming roof- roads — I have long felt that the 35 mile given for the town’s disinterest in repair- ing slates per hour speed limit was far too high. ing sorely needed curbs on the residen- 3. Resilient; flexible Our Community Spirit Is Something Many drivers I regularly ride behind tial sections on the west end of North 4. Marked with crossbars in my comings and goings easily surpass Avenue. RHEXIS speeds of 50 on the road, with little fear Future tragedies can be avoided with 1. In medicine, the rupture of an or- To Celebrate Throughout the Year of ticketing. Reducing the limit might an appropriate plan of action. I urge the gan or vessel quell such temptations to lean on the gas powers at be to address the matter with- 2. An early stage or beginning This is the week we celebrate Christmas and young children, our senior citizens, our merchants pedal. At the same time — according to out hesitation. 3. A swift deerlike animal of south- Hanukkah – two holidays representing two different and professionals, our spiritual leaders. We see it in recent reports in The Westfield Leader eastern Africa John Luerssen 4. A mild form of smallpox religions, yet sharing several common threads. Both the many volunteers who enable organizations like — North Avenue was, until the accident, Westfield easily the least policed of all the major TENEBROUS are rooted in history and faith; both unite families CONTACT We Care and Mobile Meals, to name just 1. Shameful; corrupt and friends in celebration, and both commemorate a two, to reach out to those who seek comfort and 2. Tired, mean, or worn out Former Accident Victim Expresses 3. Dark; gloomy miracle appearing bright within the darkness. assistance. We see it in our police, fire and rescue 4. Tenative; timid It is the spirit of this season that draws people squad personnel, all of whom stand ready to answer Thoughts of Pedestrian Safety CUMSHAW together like no other time of the year. We witness it the call. We see it in our town employees, our 1. Apathetic; disinterested My heart goes out to the families of of others or ourselves. 2. An undue burden or unfair demand in our houses of worship and our homes, where time- teachers, and among neighbors helping neighbors. those who have been struck and killed by As pedestrians, we also are taking our 3. An ample amount or quantity honored traditions are observed anew; in the many This year-round “holiday spirit” has helped shape a car while crossing the street. Reading lives into our own hands. If we choose to 4. A tip or gratuity about pedestrians being struck and killed cross in a pedestrian crosswalk, we need food, clothing and toy drives held on behalf of those the character of our communities for generations. It is particularly painful for me. to have more than eye contact with the in need; through individual acts of kindness and is something we take pride in, something we seek to Two years and four months ago, I was drivers of approaching vehicles. We need Commuter/Town generosity amid the hustle and bustle of holiday pass on to our children as part of their heritage. It is hit by a car while in the pedestrian to see them wave us across as confirma- crosswalk. It was on the corner of East tion that they have seen us. If we choose Correspondence preparations. one of the things that makes each of our towns a Broad Street and North Avenue (on the to step out into the street from between While most apparent during Christmas and Ha- special place to live, work and visit. corner opposite the Methodist Church parked cars, then heaven help us in our Editor’s Note: The following is e-mail nukkah, as well as Kwanzaa, the holiday spirit is As we welcome the holidays once again, and pre- and near the 9/11 Memorial). The young absence of good judgment. correspondence between Mr. Siegle and driver was attempting to make a right As one who has been very fortunate in the Town of Westfield on commuter park- highly evident throughout the year in Westfield, pare to ring in a new year, let us all pledge to nurture hand turn on red. my own recovery from being hit by a car, ing fee increases. Scotch Plains, Fanwood and Mountainside, where and maintain that spirit that has made our towns what We live in a world where we rush from my advice is simple: slow down, be I encourage The Westfield Leader to residents have long been known for their generosity, they are. Let us work together to overcome the one thing to another, not concentrating cautious, concentrate on what you are publish an article comparing the yearly on what we are doing. When we slide doing, and have consideration for oth- parking fees to that in other NJ commu- helpfulness and caring — particularly when it comes challenges we face, and our differences, to find solu- behind the steering wheel of our car and ers. nities. For your information, the fee in to those less fortunate than themselves, or making tions that will benefit us all. Let us reach out to one start the ignition, we are operating a Janna Sage Peterson Fanwood is $240 per year. days a little brighter for those whose circumstances another, listen to one another, and help one another in dangerous vehicle. Our inattention while Westfield driving could bring injury or end the life Mitch Siegel have left little room for cheer. whatever way we can. Let us resolve to “celebrate the Dear Ms. Gray: We see that spirit in people of all ages – in our season” throughout the year in all that we do. I very much appreciate the fact that you Website Offered to Give Feedback On have responded to my e-mail. However, I must say that the nature of the response is School Athletics Should Property Taxes to Gov. McGreevey quite troubling. It appears the town coun- Letters to the Editor As most of you are painfully aware, with and resolve the property tax prob- cil believes that the per hour cost of hourly New Jersey residents pay more per per- lem! parking for a relatively short period of time Be Inclusive and Open is the amount that should be utilized as a As a Westfield resident, I would like son in property taxes than residents of The following is a web site where you Teen’s Efforts Bring Santa and Toys any other state in the entire country. can participate in an on-line forum to comparison to commuters who must park to echo the sentiments of Mr. in the train station lot all year long — every Scheininger. (See letters to the editor 12/ There are many reasons for this – and learn more about the property tax issues many complex issues to resolve in order in New Jersey, respond to an eight ques- day in order to earn a living. 18) I was under the impression that one To Kids In Need of Holiday Cheer In all due respects, please compare of the purposes of school athletics was to High school senior Joelle Roseman dren are able to share their experiences to bring about real property tax relief – tion survey from Governor McGreevey‘s but rather than just pointing fingers or office and provide any suggestions or the amount charged to commuters in foster athletic growth via participation was greatly saddened when a child at the in small, age-appropriate groups. The Westfield to the amount charged in other for as many of our town’s children as Westfield “Y” where she works part- next series of workshops begins the week complaining about high property taxes, comments directly to the Governor: I urge you stay informed and become www.buildabetternj.org/. New Jersey towns for yearly parking wanted to participate. time told her that her mommy said that of January 26. To register your child or fees. In some cases, our fees are five Preventing six of our Westfield boys there is no money for Christmas this get more information about the pro- actively engaged in public forums to Please take a few minutes and provide address this critical issue. your feedback to Governor McGreevey. times higher that charged in other com- from participating in the W.H.S. basket- year. Joelle thought that every child gram, please call The Center for Women munities. ball program when there are budgeted should be able to look forward to receiv- and Families in Scotch Plains at (908) Whether your party affiliation is If any of you are aware of other websites Democrat, Republican or Independent is or forums that would be of interest in this This amounts to price gouging of com- slots for them is appalling, shameful and ing gifts at Christmas, whether or not 322-6007. muters who have no other choice, but to just plain unfair. By arbitrarily not fill- their parents were divorcing or undergo- of no consequence, but as citizens and matter please share with us! Executive Director Jane Verloop taxpayers we all have a right and obliga- Thank you, and best wishes for Happy park in the train station lot. The mayor and ing budgeted spots would seem to be an ing other financial crises. Center for Women and Families town counsel are taking advantage of us. antithesis of what the school sport/ath- She gave it some thought and decided tion to raise questions, propose solutions Holidays! letic department should stand for. that she would raise money. Joelle cre- and become actively engaged in munici- John Marquardt Dear Mr. Siegel, I disagree with Mr. Scheininger that ated flyers that she circulated amongst Fanwood Mayor, pal, county and state efforts to grapple Fanwood Your email to Mayor McDermott has the coaches, salaries should be reduced parents at the “Y,” asking them for dona- been received by this office. Because of by 25 percent. The WHS coaches who tions, and children’s gifts. She looked in Councilmembers Foley Addresses WHS Opening the large amount of emails received, Mayor decided this and those higher ups in the the telephone book for an agency that McDermott cannot respond personally to athletic department, as well as the mem- specializes in helping children. There Extend Thanks emails. I will attempt to answer your ques- bers of the board of education that ap- she discovered Children Helping Chil- We would like to thank all the people On Martin Luther King Jr. Day tion to the best of my knowledge. proved this travesty, should be fired since dren (CHC), a peer support program for who worked so energetically in so many On Tuesday evening, December 16, I Church at 1 p.m. The town council reviewed the rates for they are clearly not looking out for the children whose parents are in the pro- different ways in support of our recent recommended to the Westfield Board of Intermediate and elementary schools parking permits a couple of years ago after best interests of our Westfield athletes. cess of separation and divorce. campaign for reelection. A special thank Education that we schedule a four-hour will remain closed that day. several years of no increases. The rates After all, whose athletic opportunity CHC group leader Susan Koslowsky you to all those who voted for us in day at Westfield High School on Mon- Thank you for your understanding and were well below the market value. The and experience is this? It is certainly not organized a Christmas party for Decem- recognition of our service and contribu- day, January 19, 2004, the day we ob- cooperation. rates were raised incrementally over the last two years and this year was the final that of the coaches and athletic staff, but ber 22. Joelle and her friend, dressed as tions to the betterment of Fanwood. serve Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthdate William Foley our children. Part of my taxes pays these Santa, came and distributed the gifts. It was an honor and a privilege to observance. Classes will be in session increase under the ordinance. The town Superintendent council does not feel the rates are exces- people’s salary. If they cannot do the job The Center for Women and Families serve Fanwood as mayor, council presi- from 7:30 a.m. to 12:24 p.m. for all WF Public Schools they’ve been hired to do, and abuse the in Scotch Plains offers Children Helping dent, and councilman. We wish all Westfield High School students. sive. According to our Parking Director, trust we have given them to insure the Children, a unique support program for Fanwoodians a happy holiday season To make up for the three days in the rate per day to park is around $3 a day. best is done for our children, then let’s children from five through 17. Children and the best possible New Year. September when the high school re- The rate at a meter is about $6 a day. let them go. If we allow them to cater to Helping Children provides a safe place mained closed due to construction de- President of NJ Farm The income earned from the parking Lou Jung, Fanwood Mayor fees goes into the town’s general fund. the few, what message does that send to for children who are unavoidably im- Joel Whitaker, Council President lays, the board revised the calendar to open school on Tuesday, February 17 Bureau Impressed With The past two years, money has been set our children? pacted by the breakup of their parents. David Trumpp, Councilman (the second day of Presidents’ Week- aside from that fund for the parking decks. Steven Roberts Under the direction of Susan Outcome of Bear Hunt Koslowsky, Family Life Educator, chil- end) and Monday, June 21 (the day of Westfield I would like to take this opportunity to Claire Gray Weldon Family Gives graduation). These changes were pub- WF Executive Assistant lished as a contingency in the original say how impressed I was with the out- Thanks For Support calendar approved by the board. come of the recent bear hunt in New To: The Town Council On December 4, Diane Callahan, Su- On September 19, I was forced to Jersey. The success of the hunt can be I’ve been a Westfield resident and san Lorenzten and Eliane Panza hosted a close schools again when Hurricane attributed to the professionalism, prepa- commuter for 10 years. It is unconscio- “Wonder Day Of Shopping” at the Isabel hit New Jersey. I now face the ration and the scientific approach taken nable to me that the council has again Lorenzten home to benefit Fibrodysplasia prospect of entering January and Febru- by the organizers at the State Division of decided to raise parking fees at the train Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) for our ary with only one snow day for the high Fish and Wildlife, as well as the prepa- station. My bill of over $700 per year is daughter Whitney Weldon. school and few options short of cancel- ration and training of the hunters in- excessive by any standards. Neighboring During this busy time of year, neigh- ing the spring break if we face a signifi- volved. towns do not have fees even close to what bors, friends, and friends who brought cant snow storm. I felt the prudent thing The State of New Jersey is well served we are charging. In fact, some of my friends, all came out to do their holiday to do was to add another day to the high by active wildlife management programs. colleagues who live in New Jersey pay as shopping to support this cause. We again, school calendar so we will have less The bear hunt was also a useful way to little at $100 a year to park in their towns. want to take this opportunity to thank the difficulty meeting the 180 school day determine more about the bear popula- Please let me know what the town has girls for hosting this event, the vendors requirement. This will give the high tion in the State, which may be larger been doing with the income they earn who worked so hard; the volunteers and school students two snow days in the than earlier estimated. from parking fees. It’s time for the town the community for coming out to sup- calendar, the same as our elementary A controlled hunt is the best way to to be honest how these funds are being port Whitney and FOP. and intermediate students. reduce nuisance costs, accidents, crop used. If the funds are being used to We continue to be touched by gener- There will be opportunities to recog- damage and intrusion into residential provide a fund to construct a parking osity of others. We want to wish you the nize Dr. King’s legacy while high school areas from excess wildlife populations. deck, it is unfair for the deck to be built joy of family and the happiness of friends students are in class the morning of Without natural predators, these hunts on the backs of commuters. through out the New Year. January 19. Since classes will end at are needed for a healthy outdoors in New The businesses in town will benefit from Thank you all for keeping Whitney in 12:24 p.m., students and faculty will be Jersey. the deck, not the commuters of Westfield. your prayers. Happy holidays. able to participate in the march from Richard Nieuwehuis If the council feels that the deck(s) will President, benefit the entire town; fund the deck from The Weldon Family Bethel Baptist Church and to attend the ceremonies at the United Methodist NJ Farm Bureau real estate taxes incurred by all residents. Westfield Singling out commuters is inequitable. Mitch Siegel Memories From the First Half of 2003 Westfield

CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, December 25, 2003 Page 5 Letters to the Editor WF Resident Is Disturbed And Concerned About Pedestrian Safety The December 18th issue of The impact. But we will not know this unless Westfield Leader had a headline, “Pe- an analysis is performed. destrians Killed on North Avenue” which The town went through the expense, really disturbed me, and should raise effort and time to analyze the parking concern in the minds of all Westfield shortage situation, but no time was de- residents, business owners and politi- voted to the potential impacts of the cians. There have been 1,000 accidents redevelopment projects. I am confused in Westfield this year, 12 have involved and dismayed that such an important pedestrians. component of any project can be ig- I raise this issue in light of the pro- nored. posed redevelopment parking decks. As We need to refocus our efforts on the debate continues, I see evidence of public safety first, and then we can exam- the geotechnical borings and mark outs ine such luxuries as additional parking. Benjamin B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times that were placed in the respective future If not for anything else, but public BIG WINNERS…The N.J. Fire Prevention Protection Agency held a poster deck locations. Yet, I still do not see safety, please conduct this study before contest in which three union county winners received an award. The awards evidence of any planning studies. These furthering the projects. Jim Rossiter for The Westfield Leader and The Times where given to Danny Markowsky of Westfield, Nicholas Zecchino of Union, studies are critical in identifying the CARTOON GOOD SPORT...Leader/Times cartoonist Dale Neseman presented Fernando Martinez a framed cartoon reprint last Thursday at The Jolley Trolley in Westfield to and Johanna Contreras Linden. The award ceremony was held at the Westfield impacts of these new decks to the town. Westfield Fire Department in early December. Let’s take for example, pedestrian Westfield Parking Captain John Morgan, a frequent subject of the cartoonist’s safety. As we will recall from our col- humor. Mr. Neseman has been creating cartoons for the newspaper for several lege statistics and probability classes, Resident Congratulates years, although this is his first trip to Westfield. He hails from Hamburg, N.Y. the theory of random events and the Cara and Jim Foerst of Westfield arranged the meeting between Mr. Neseman process of obtaining information from a WF Bd. of Adjustment and Mr. Morgan out of interest in that Mrs. Foerst also was from Hamburg, smaller group to statistically infer the Congratulations to the four members N.Y. Pictured, from the left, are: Cara Foerst, Jim Foerst, Dale Neseman and possibilities to a larger group, in es- of the Westfield Board of Adjustment John Morgan. sence, the more vehicles you have, the for denying the Temple Parking Lot greater the number of accidents and in- application. I have been here since 1975 crease in risk to pedestrians. and have never seen such a concerted A planning study will examine how lobbying campaign. many more vehicles will pass through I hope the board continues to be stead- and park in our town because of these fast as the Temple is sure to be back. redevelopment projects. Maybe the study Scott Lynn Fagin will reveal that there is no significant Westfield Community News Major Charles Cozensa Automobile Campaign Addresses Veterans Day YOUTHS HELP SENIORS...Members of Westfield High School Jr. Optimist To Benefit MADD Club, with the support of King’s in Garwood, delivered potted plants to At Edison Junior High AREA – Mothers Against Drunk residents at Sunrise Assisted Living in Westfield for Thanksgiving. Pictured WESTFIELD – Special Forces Driving (MADD) in New Jersey is above, from the left, are: members Lauren Finestein, Leah DiMatteo and Adrienne O’Rourke with two of the residents. Major Charles Cosenza was one of conducting a car campaign to help the guest speakers at Edison Jr. High support its program. Anyone inter- School Westfield, during the cer- ested in donating an automobile may Westfield ‘Y’ Announces emony honoring our servicemen on call MADD at (800) 720-6233. Some Veterans Day, November 11. restrictions apply. A graduate of Westfield High Read the newspaper Horace R. Corbin for The Westfield Leader New Classes For January School and Iowa University, Major TIGERS AT CHRISTMASTIME…Tiger Cubs from Pack 177 in Mountainside Cosenza served in Bosnia and in on the Internet visited the office of The Westfield Leader newspaper on Thursday, December 18, WESTFIELD — The Westfield Clyne & Murphy Culinary classes. ********** Iraq. Major Cosenza is stationed in 2003 to learn about communication and to earn their badge. “Y,” located at 220 Clark Street, has They will include detailed, step by Norfolk, Virginia where he resides goleader.com announced two new classes for adults step instructions and discussion of with his wife, Renee and his three in January. multiple applications of each recipe. sons. One Stroke Painting classes will Students will share cooking expe- be held on Sunday, January 11, from riences, actively participate and 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Wednes- sample their cooking. The classes day, January 14, from 7 to 10 p.m. will be taught by Carol Murphy Clyne The classes, to take place at the “Y,” at Clyne & Murphy, located at 439 will focus on a decorative style of South Avenue in Westfield. TRATTO' RIA painting made popular by the artist Participants may attend a Hors Dawn Dewberry. d’oeuvres Sampler class on Tuesday, During each workshop, partici- January 27, or Wednesday, January pants will receive instruction for the 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. Additionally, a first 90 minutes and then paint an class on Valentine’s Day sweets will item for the remaining 90 minutes. be offered on Tuesday, February 3, All supplies will be provided and or Wednesday, February 4, from 7 to attendees will take the painted item 9 p.m. home. Classes are open to the public and A “Y” membership is not neces- the fee is $50 per person per class. Holiday Events sary to participate, but individuals “Y” membership is not required. must be age 15 or older. The fee is For information or to register for $45 per person per workshop. either of these programs, please call December 24th Christmas Eve Additionally, the “Y” will present the “Y” at (908) 233-2700. Major Charles Cozensa The Feast of the Seven Fishes Experience a Traditional Italian 5 Course Christmas Eve Dinner $35.00 Per Person :HVWILHOG ´<µ Reservations Strongly Recommended December 31st New Year’s Eve Our Jazz Sessions Continue Ring in the New Year with elegant food and the smooth sounds of Bosa Nova. The Solution to your New Paolo Pinho celebrates the release of his first album and entertains you while you enjoy Hor’s D’overves and a five course meal you won’t forget. Black tie optional. Year’s Resolution! $75.00 Per Person tax/tip incl. 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM By Reservation Only January 14th Start the New Year Our Monthly Jazz Dinner Off Right! 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM &RQYHQLHQW1HZ&RQWLQXRXV 'HELWRU&UHGLW'UDIW3D\PHQW Open New Year’s Day 3ODQIRUDVOLWWOHDV 10:00am-4:00pm PRQWKIRUDWHHQ PRQWKIRUDQDGXOW  x 6SHFLDOW\)LWQHVV&ODVV PRQWKIRUDIDPLO\  Susan Petrick, MEd, LDTC, CET  x )LWQHVV$VVHVVPHQWV SOXVD-RLQHUV)HH x *LYHDZD\V Board Certified Educational Therapist x $QGPRUH Dyslexia Specialist Specialist in the Disorder of Written Expression Creator of “Picture to Write” - a uniquely effective writing technique Membership includes the use of: two pools * over 100 pieces of strength training & cardio equipment * For the Bright Child air conditioned gym * free participation in most fitness classes * free weight room * racquetball courts with a Surprising Academic Weakness babysitting * child care * whirlpool, sauna & steam for additional fee 908-654-9380 in Westfield

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CYAN YELLOW MAGENTA BLACK Page 6 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Presbyterian Church Names Christian Education Director WESTFIELD – The Presbyterian Christian Education Director. Church in Westfield recently named Raised as a Presbyterian, she has Kathy Genus, a Certified Associate served as a Deacon, Elder, Sunday Christian Educator, to guide the school Superintendent and Chair- Children’s Education Program as woman for the Monmouth Presbytery and is a member of the Educational Ministries Department. She studied Matthew Howard for three years at Princeton Semi- nary. Born to Dembiecs The Children’s Education Program Jeff and Vicki Dembiec of Scotch includes youngsters ages two through Plains have announced the birth of 10, and the Youth Program continues their son, Matthew Howard Dembiec, the process for young adults. Volun- on Tuesday, July 29, at 3:34 p.m. at teer parents serve as teachers. Ms. Overlook Hospital in Summit. Genus, a resident of Piscataway, Matthew weighed 8 pounds and 1 trains new parent teachers in ways to ounce and measured 21 inches in deliver knowledge and faith-based MR. AND MRS. BRANDON D. UHLIG learning to children at various levels (She is the former Ms. Audra M. Ciccione) length at birth. He joins his brothers, Patrick, age of development. SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING DAY…A “Day of Shopping” was held recently at 3, and Michael, age 1½. the home of Susan Lorentzen to benefit Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva The baby’s maternal grandparents cure research, and in support of Whitney Weldon, a Westfield youngster who are Jerry and Marcia Abbott of Port has the condition. More than 160 people turned out for the event, which raised Ms. Audra M. Ciccione $15,000. Pictured, left to right, are: Chairwomen Eliane Panza, Dianne Callahan St. Lucie, Fla. and Mrs. Lorentzen. All three are from Westfield. Karen and Walt Dembiec of Hilton Head Island, S.C. are his paternal Marries Brandon D. Uhlig grandparents. Shopping Day Held to Support Ann Dembiec of Somerville is Ms. Audra M. Ciccione, the daugh- was the best man for his brother. Matthew’s paternal great-grand- ter of Ms. Fran Ciccione of Basking Serving as ushers were Joseph mother. FOP Cure and Whitney Weldon Ridge and Joseph Ciccione of Ciccione of Downingtown, Pa. and Franklin Park, was married on Satur- Alexander Ciccione of Franklin Park, Singles Group Posts WESTFIELD – More than 160 Eliane Panza and Mrs. Lorentzen, all day, October 18, to Brandon D. Uhlig. the brothers of the bride; Kevin Wain- area residents attended a fundraiser of Westfield. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Larry wright of Bordentown, Jason January Meetings on December 4 to benefit The “Day of Shopping” raised Uhlig of Mount Holly. Leszczynski of Philadelphia, WESTFIELD — Widowed, di- Fibrodysplasia Ossificans $15,000 for FOP cure research. The afternoon ceremony took place Michael Sullivan of Florence, Chris- vorced or never-married individuals Progressiva (FOP) cure research. Members of the Day of Shopping at the Faith Lutheran Church in New topher Manzari of Mount Holly, T.J. over age 45 are invited to come to the Kathy Genus The “Day of Shopping” was held committee extended their apprecia- Providence, with Pastor Murdoch Sadar of Florence and Gregory First Baptist Church of Westfield on in support of Whitney Weldon, tion to The Gift Monkey, Tara MacPherson officiating. A reception Jadlocki of Chadds Ford, Pa., all Sundays for coffee, cake and lively WF Day Care Honors daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Flanigan, Susan Sletteland, Colleen followed at Pantagis Renaissance in friends of the bridegroom. discussions on single living. Weldon of Westfield, who has the Harlan and Wendy Hansen for their Scotch Plains. William Marazzito of Staten Is- Next month’s meeting dates are Retiring Director condition. participation in this event. Mrs. Given in marriage by her father, land, a cousin of the bride, was the January 4, 11, 18 and 25, beginning WESTFIELD – The staff, chil- FOP is a rare bone disease for Hansen additionally helped with the the bride wore a satin and silk or- ring bearer. at 9 a.m. A $2 donation is requested dren and families of the Westfield which there is currently no treatment invitations. For more information ganza gown with cap sleeves and a The bride graduated from Westfield and all are welcome. Meetings take Day Care Center gathered for their or cure. The benefit was held at the about FOP, please visit train, complemented by a cathedral- High School in 1994 and from place in the lower level meeting room. 36th annual holiday party on De- home of Susan Lorentzen and fea- www.weldonfop.com. length veil. She carried a bouquet of Rutgers University in 1999. She The group also holds winter movie cember 11 and dedicated the tured five local vendors. The day was white roses and red berries. works for an engineering firm in nights, summer picnics and holiday evening’s festivities to Vera Calhoun. organized by Dianne Callahan, County Torah Center Ms. Jaime DeChellis of Aberdeen New Jersey. get-togethers, among other activities. Ms. Calhoun has been a dedicated To Form Chess Team and Mrs. Stacey Jones of Tinton Falls, A 1995 graduate of Rancocoas The First Baptist Church is lo- staff member for 16 years and will Cub Scout Pack No. 34 both friends of the bride, served as Valley Regional High School, the cated at 170 Elm Street. For more retire from her position as the Direc- WESTFIELD – The Union the maid of honor and matron of bridegroom is also a 1999 graduate information, please call (908) 889- tor of the Westfield Infant/Toddler Helps Needy Families County Torah Center has announced honor, respectively. of Pennsylvania State University. He 5265 or (908) 889-4751. Center this month. SCOTCH PLAINS — Cub Scout the formation of a chess team to The bridal attendants included Mrs. is a Senior Editor for CUNY-TV in “Vera has been an inspirational leader Pack No. 34 of Scotch Plains held its compete in the 2004 United States Wendy Uhlig of Mount Holly, the New York City. Westfield Service League of staff, families and children and will annual holiday party on December Chess Federation Amateur Team sister-in-law of the bridegroom; Mrs. The rehearsal dinner was hosted be greatly missed by everyone here at 12, at Evergreen Elementary School. Championship Tournament. All par- Sandi Ciccione of Downingtown, Pa., by the parents of the bridegroom at Seeks Applications the center,” said Rachel Arasin, Ex- In the spirit of the season, the cubs ticipants will receive a US Chess the sister-in-law of the bride; Ms. Chris- the Somerset Hills Hotel in Warren. ecutive Director of the center. had collected food items and packed Federation National ranking. tina Ciccione of Massapequa, N.Y., a Following a wedding trip to For 2004 Grants She was honored with a plaque over 20 boxes of food to be delivered The classes will take place on cousin of the bride; Ms. Kimberly Coronado Beach, Calif., San Diego, WESTFIELD – The Westfield describing everyday heroes and Vera to local families in need by Heart For Sundays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Paley of Clinton and Ms. Allison Clancy Calif. and Las Vegas, Nev., the couple Service League (WSL) is currently Calhoun is applauded as one of them. Humanity. Torah Center and will be taught by of Westfield, friends of the bride. resides in Scotch Plains. accepting requests for applications The children gathered to sing holi- It has become a pack tradition to Dr. Richard Lewis of Westfield. Miss Gianna Marazzito of Staten for grants for 2004. day songs followed by classroom help others during the holiday sea- The classes will be on five con- Island, N.Y., a cousin of the bride, Unitarian Church Sets This past year, the WSL donated parties and a visit from Santa. son. Each box provides the basics for secutive Sundays, from January 11 was a junior bridesmaid. $65,000 to local agencies and orga- a family holiday meal. through February 8. All partici- The maid of honor and matron of Coffee House Concert nizations. The grant funds result from Library Board Reveals The scouts hand decorated the pants must commit to attend the honor, along with the bridal atten- SUMMIT – The Summit Unitarian the profits of the WSL Thrift and boxes and wrote messages wishing tournament on February 14, 15 and dants, wore claret colored, tank style Church, located at 4 Waldron Avenue, Consignment Shops, located at 114 Special Meeting Dec. 29 each family happy holidays. 16 at the Parsippany Hilton Hotel. gowns. They carried bouquets of will present its Second Saturdays Elmer Street. WESTFIELD — A special meeting Each cub also received his Pin- The program is open to all ages. mixed flowers in fall colors. Coffee House on January 10, featur- The WSL has provided service to of the Board of Trustees of the Westfield ewood Derby car kit to begin trans- Space is limited; participation is Miss Karli Marazzito of Staten ing Danzig & Wooley in concert. the Westfield area for over 70 years. Memorial Library will be held on forming the block of wood into a on a first-come, first-served basis. Island, also a cousin of the bride, was Doors will open at 7:30 p.m., with the During this time, the WSL has do- Monday, December 29, at 7:30 p.m. racing car for the Pinewood Derby, There is a $50 fee which covers the flower girl. She wore a white, concert to begin at 8 p.m. There will be nated over $1.9 million to various The only item on the agenda is the to be held Friday, February 6. entry for team members into the princess style dress and carried a no “open mic” in January. Admission is agencies. review and approval of end of the The next pack meeting will be tournament, individual US Chess basket with flowers in fall colors. $12. Net proceeds will benefit the Keith To be considered for funding, each year bills and claims. The board will held at Evergreen Elementary School Federation membership (good for Cameron Uhlig of Mount Holly Knost Special Needs Trust. agency or organization must submit meet in the meeting room of the on Friday, January 9, at which time all USCF tournaments for 1 year), a written request to Sally Wilt, Do- library, located at 550 East Broad the next overnight trip will be an- and registration for five-session nations Chairperson, 825 Boulevard, Street in Westfield. nounced. chess course. OWEN BRAND Westfield 07090. For more information, please call Dr. Lewis has been teaching chess All completed applications must be (908) 789-4090 or visit the library’s Church Plans Zoo Trip in Union County schools for over returned no later than February 1, 2004. website at www.wmlnj.org. 25 years. His students have won To See Lights Show several national and local tourna- Your Home Town WESTFIELD — Members of the ments and have gone on to achieve First Baptist Church of Westfield and Master ranking. MORTGAGE BANKER their friends will take a bus trip to the For more information, please call Bronx Zoo on Friday, January 2, for the center at (908) 789-5252. IVY MORTGAGE the Holiday Lights Show. I The bus will depart from the church, Thrift Shop to Reopen VY located at 170 Elm Street, at 4 p.m. and return about 10:30 p.m. For Business on Jan. 6 The zoo is open from 5 to 9 p.m. SCOTCH PLAINS – The Thrift Shop Residential - Construction and features lights and animal exhib- of the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Service its, plus the Polar Express Theatre and League will reopen its doors on Tues- Commercial - Bridge Loans Train Ride. day, January 6, 2004 at 10 a.m. Visitors are welcome to participate After two weeks’ vacation, the store Local (908) 789-2730 and may register in advance by calling will be restocked with “all-new” (908) 233-2278 or sending an email to winter merchandise. Volunteers will Toll Free (888) 489-9680 be on hand to assist all customers. RTIFIE [email protected]. E D E COU Pager (908) 552-5007 C EM RT Store hours are Tuesday through R The church will provide transpor- P O U F S N E E H W T T

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and J

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I S E trance fee of $8 for adults and $5.60 Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 A L N p.m. The shop is located at 1730 East AT TO R for children ages two through 12 Licensed Mortgage Bankers - NJ Dept. of Banking and senior citizens over 65. There is Second Street in Scotch Plains. For Equal Housing Lender Jim Hely an extra charge for Polar Express more information, please call (908) WEISEMANHELY activities. 322-5420. DIGIOIA See us in the Verizon Yellow Pages. A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION OF Only 1 of 40 lawyers is a CERTIFIED TRIAL LAWYERS* Supreme Court Certified Trial Lawyer. INJURY CASES (908) 789-9000 GRANDCeleb OPENINGration!

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During this holiday week, people * * * * * Kean, Jr., Assemblyman Eric Muñoz, “We should be redirecting these of both the Jewish tradition and Reverend Ney is Associate Pastor M.D. and Assemblyman Jon funds to pay existing Transportation the Christian faith remember and for Parish Life at The Presbyterian Bramnick have recommended that Trust Fund debt or more pressing celebrate God’s love and care for Church in Westfield. Her ministry Department of Transportation Com- transportation projects,” Senator human beings. focuses on pastoral care, evange- missioner Jack Lettiere pull the pro- Kean noted. Chanukah commemorates the lism, fellowship, the Stephen Min- posed reactivation of the Staten Is- “To date, none of the environmen- victory of the Maccabees securing istry and as staff liaison with the land and Rahway Valley rail lines tal, economic or traffic studies we the Temple and the miracle of the Deacons. project to help preserve the state’s have requested on this project have small amount of oil in the Temple Transportation Trust Fund for more been considered,” said Assembly- lamp that lasted for eight days. critical projects. man Muñoz, a member of the As- For them, the miracle represented Reps. of Presidential “We appreciate Governor sembly Commerce and Economic God’s presence, love and power. McGreevey’s decision not to move Development Committee. The Old Testament, the Hebrew Candidates to Debate forward with the proposed 12.5 cent He also pointed out that $3 million Bible, is filled with accounts of CHATHAM – On Thursday, Janu- increase in the gasoline tax in New of the $7.5 million awarded by the God’s love for human beings. Over ary 15, representatives for four of Jersey. He has asked DOT Commis- DOT for proposed reactivation of the SPREADING GOOD CHEER…As a Community Service Project this holiday and over, God proved God’s faith- the top Democrat presidential can- sioner Lettiere to reduce cost and rail line has already been spent. season, Junior Girl Scout Troop No. 442 from Tamaques Elementary School in fulness to God’s people. didates will debate. prioritize the state’s most pressing “The DOT and Union County are Westfield participated in a food drive for the Westfield Food Bank. The girls For Christians, the miracle of Presented by the Chatham Demo- transportation projects. still looking for $5 million more organized, collected, delivered and sorted all of the donated food items. Jesus represents the epitome of crats, this in-depth forum will fea- Pulling the Morristown & Erie rail- from the taxpayers. We should be Pictured, from left to right, are: Back row, Cecelia Mosco, Rafi Jakubovic, Allie God’s love. Jesus’ name, ture spokespersons for Dr. Howard Merkelson, Willi Rediker and Danielle Wirtshafter, and front row, Danielle Emmanuel, literally means, “God Dean, General Wesley Clark and road project will immediately save focusing on improving the state’s Lipschutz, Ella D’Amico, Kim Hoffman and Megan Luppino. the DOT $4.0 million,” said Senator economy, creating jobs and reducing with us.” God, in Jesus, is with us Senators John Kerry and John Kean, a member of the Senate’s Bud- the property tax burden,” Assembly- in human flesh. God, in Jesus, Edwards. It will be held at the man Muñoz concluded. became one of us, experienced our Chatham Public Library, 214 Main Blueberry Bill Approved Five of the municipalities affected Westfield UNICO Posts reality, even death, so that we Street, at 7 p.m. by the reactivation of the freight rail might know that God understands “A day does not go by without By New Jersey Senate line, including Kenilworth, Roselle, Sale of 50/50 Tickets and can help us. someone asking me about the presi- TRENTON – Senate bill S2678/ Roselle Park, Springfield and Sum- Because of God’s overwhelm- dential race,” said Ellen Steinberg, A3344 is slated to take the next step mit, have all passed resolutions op- WESTFIELD – Westfield UNICO contributed over $400,000 to those ing love for us, Jesus was willing Chatham Municipal Chairwoman. “It in its two-year journey to name the posing reactivation the rail line. has announced the sale of 50/50 raffle in need. UNICO identifies individu- to leave the glories of heaven to is unfortunate that by the time the Highbush Blueberry as the state fruit, “The state, county and M&E Rail- tickets to support the organization’s als and organizations within the com- take on the form of a poor baby New Jersey Primary is held in June, following the New Jersey Senate’s way have yet to prove how this project charitable work. Raffle tickets cost munity with programs or projects born in squalid conditions — just the Democratic presidential candi- passage of the bill on December 11. will benefit Union County. These $10 each and the winner could claim worthy of support. so that we would have a Savior. date will probably already be chosen. The bill was researched and pro- freight trains will snarl traffic on as much as $5000. The drawing will When the need has been identi- Christian faith sees nothing less However, our voices and opinions do moted by the students at Veterans heavily traveled highways such as take place on Wednesday, April 14. fied, the organization works to fill than God and God’s love in Jesus’ not have to remain silent.” Memorial Elementary School in Route 22 in Union, the Boulevard in “This raffle could bring us much- the need through financial support, birth, ministry, death and resur- Ms. Steinberg noted that many Brick Township. Kenilworth, Route 28 (Westfield needed funds to support our local chari- goods or services, or coordinating rection. New Jersey residents have already The Senate Economic Growth, Avenue) in Roselle Park, Mountain table efforts, including scholarship grants community resources. The power of God to achieve all become actively involved with dif- Agriculture and Tourism Committee and Meisel Avenues in Springfield, and assistance to needy persons in this Individuals interested in joining or of that speaks of a faithful God ferent candidates. approved the measure for a vote. It and South Avenue in Cranford,” said area,” said Randy Pisane, Westfield supporting Westfield UNICO, includ- who keeps promises. It speaks of a “This debate will provide an op- already passed in the Assembly. Assemblyman Bramnick. UNICO Executive Vice President. ing purchasing raffle tickets, may God who is still in charge. portunity to compare the positions The next stop for the bill is the “The residents of these towns have Since 1976, Westfield UNICO has call Charles Grillo at (908) 654-3717. As the days of the holiday sea- and understand the differences be- Governor’s desk. the right to know how their tax dol- son pass by this year, may these tween the major candidates,” Ms. The blueberry would then join the lars will impact the quality of life in statements inform our days in the Steinberg added. American goldfinch, red oak, violet, their communities.” coming year. God loves us. God is The January 15 forum is open to honeybee, horse, brook trout, with us. God is in charge. We can the public. A caucus vote, Iowa style, knobbed whelk, Hadrosaurus foulkii, – Obituaries – let the truth of those statements will follow the debate. For more square dance, and A.J. Meerwald as www.goleader.com still our fears and anxious feel- information, please contact Ellen an official New Jersey icon. ings. We can let the truth of those Steinberg at (908) 686-0500 or via DEATH NOTICE statements fill us with peace and e-mail at [email protected]. Timothy Briant, 48, Army Veteran; Robert L. Sutman, 83, Executive Beatrice I. McNamara, 88, Worked Worked For Waterproofing Systems With Phelps Dodge Corporation As Office Clerk For Two Businesses Timothy Briant, 48, of Plainfield Kimberlie Briant; three brothers, Robert Lindsey Sutman, 83, of Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth; his died on Saturday, December 13, from Robert Briant, Raymond Phillip Basking Ridge died on Wednesday, daughter and son-in-law, Lindsey and Beatrice Irene Britton McNamara, She was predeceased by her hus- injuries he sustained in an automo- Briant and Peter Briant, and two December 17, at Fellowship Village. Bob Colombo of Ridgewood; his son 88, of Shallotte, N.C. died on Satur- band, Robert McNamara, and by her bile accident in South Plainfield. sisters, Laura Venturo and Mary A memorial service was held on and daughter-in-law, William and day, December 13, at the Autumn parents, James and Ellen Britton. Born in Plainfield, he returned there Briant-Meyner. Saturday, December 20, at St. Paul’s Jennifer Sutman of Westlake Vil- Care Nursing Home in Shallotte. Surviving are a son, Robert two years ago after having lived in A memorial service was held on Episcopal Church in Westfield. In- lage, Calif., and son, the Reverend Born in Jersey City, she had been McNamara, Jr.; three daughters, Westfield. Saturday, December 20, at the Holy terment was at the Garth of St. Paul’s. Frank Sutman of Dover, Mass. Also a resident of Jackson Township and Patricia A. Hampton, Pamela Lund A waterproofer for Waterproofing Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Arrangements were by the Gray Fu- his stepdaughter and her husband, Westfield prior to moving to Shallotte and Nancy Vervan; nine grandchil- Systems of New Jersey Inc. in Leba- Westfield. neral Home, 318 East Broad Street in Robin and Francis Peterson of Min- a year ago. dren and six great-grandchildren. non for 21 years, Mr. Briant was a Funeral arrangements were under Westfield. neapolis, Minn., and his stepson and Mrs. McNamara had been an of- A service was held on Wednesday, member of the United Union of Roof- the direction of the Funeral Service Born in Monongahela, Pa., Mr. his wife, John and Pamela Ackerson fice clerk with American Motors in December 17, at the George S. ers, Waterproofers, and Allied Work- of New Jersey Inc. in Hillside. Sutman lived in Pittsburgh, Pa., Fort of Burlington, Vt.; three grandchil- Mountainside before retiring in 1970. Hassler Funeral Home in Jackson ers Local No. 4 of Newark. December 25, 2003 Wayne, Ind. and for 36 years in dren, Andrew, Kevin and Daniel Before that, she had worked in the Township. Interment took place at He served in the United States Westfield. Sutman; four step-grandchildren, same capacity for Motorola Televi- St. Gertrude Cemetery in Colonia. Army from 1972 to 1975 and be- Grace McNamara Educated at Robert Morris Col- Kristin and Michael Ackerson, Derek sion in Rahway. December 25, 2003 longed to American Legion Post No. Grace McNamara of Westfield died lege and the University of Pittsburgh, Peterson and Dana Young, and one 3 in Westfield. he was Eastern Regional Sales Man- great-grandchild. Surviving are a daughter, on Friday, December 12, at the Prayer to Prayer to Cornell Hall Convalescent Center in ager for Phelps Dodge Corporation. In lieu of flowers, memorial con- Union. He was a member of St. Paul’s Epis- tributions may be made to St. Paul’s The Blessed Virgin The Blessed Virgin Frances Urbanski, 86 Born in Newark, she had been a copal Church and the Echo Lake Episcopal Church, 414 East Broad PRAYER TO THE BLESSED PRAYER TO THE BLESSED Frances Schmidt Urbanski, 86, of resident of Irvington for 30 years and Country Club. Mr. Sutman also was Street, Westfield, N.J. 07090 or to VIRGIN: (Never known to fail) VIRGIN: (Never known to fail) Westfield died on Monday, Decem- had also lived in Elizabeth for many former Treasurer of the Fellowship the Fellowship Village Benevolent Oh most beautiful flower of Mount Oh most beautiful flower of Mount ber 8, at her home. years. Village Residents’ Board. He served Fund or the Fellowship Library, 8000 Carmel, fruitful vine splendor of Carmel, fruitful vine splendor of Born in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., she Mrs. McNamara was a member of with the United States Army in Fellowship Road, Basking Ridge, heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son had been a Linden resident for 20 the Rosary Confraternity and the 60- Trinidad during World War II. N.J. 07920 in memory of Robert L. of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist years before moving to Westfield in Plus Club at St. Mary’s Roman Catho- His previous wife, Dorothy Sutman. me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the 1967. lic Church in Elizabeth. Dismukes Sutman, died in 1992. December 25, 2003 Sea, help me show me herein, you Sea, help me show me herein, you Prior to retiring, Mrs. Urbanski She was predeceased by her hus- are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, had been a school aide for the band, John McNamara. Ann Hayes Wigton, 88, Was Active Mother of God, Queen of Heaven Mother of God, Queen of Heaven Westfield school system for seven Surviving are two sons, Robert and Earth! I humbly beseech you and Earth! I humbly beseech you years. Earlier, she had been a sales- McNamara of Robbinsville and John from the bottom of my heart to from the bottom of my heart to person for Grant’s in Clark for 10 McNamara of Elizabeth; a daughter, In Church and Various Area Groups succor me in this necessity. There succor me in this necessity. There years. Mary Broderick of Westfield, and Ann Hayes Wigton, 88, of cent Avenue Presbyterian Church. are none that can withstand your are none that can withstand your She was predeceased by her hus- five grandchildren. Plainfield died on Friday, December Arrangements were under the di- power. Oh, show me herein you power. Oh, show me herein you band, Edward Urbanski, and by a The funeral was held on Monday, 19, at Muhlenberg Regional Medical rection of the Memorial Funeral are my mother. Oh Mary, con- are my mother. Oh Mary, con- son, Edward Urbanski. December 15, at the Leonard Home Center in Plainfield. Home, 155 South Avenue in ceived without sin, pray for us who ceived without sin, pray for us who Surviving are a daughter, Mary For Funerals in Elizabeth. A Mass Born in Washington, D.C., she had Fanwood. have recourse to thee. Holy Mother, have recourse to thee. Holy Mother, Ann Urbanski; four grandchildren followed at St. Mary’s Church. Inter- lived in Lewistown, Pa. before mov- Memorial donations may be made I place this cause in your hands I place this cause in your hands and five great-grandchildren. ment took place at the Clinton Cem- ing to Plainfield in 1950. She also to the Memorial Fund of Crescent (3X). Holy Spirit, you who solve (3X). Holy Spirit, you who solve The funeral service was held on etery in Irvington. maintained a residence on Avenue Presbyterian Church, 716 all problems, light all roads so that all problems, light all roads so that Friday, December 12, at the Werson Memorial donations may be made Kennebago Lake in Oquossoc, Me. Watchung Avenue, Plainfield 07060. I can attain my goal. You who gave I can attain my goal. You who gave Funeral Home in Linden. Interment to the American Heart Association, Mrs. Wigton was a member of the December 25, 2003 me the divine gift to forgive and me the divine gift to forgive and took place at St. Gertrude Cemetery 2550 U.S. Highway 1, North Plainfield Garden Club; The Colonial forget all evil against me and that forget all evil against me and that in Colonia. Brunswick 08902. Dames of America; the Union League Alice H. Neals, 72 in all instances in my life you are in all instances in my life you are December 25, 2003 December 25, 2003 Club of New York; the Crescent Av- Alice H. Neals, 72, of Scotch Plains with me. I want in this short prayer with me. I want in this short prayer Arthur Crane, 90, F. & A.M. Member; enue Presbyterian Church in Plainfield died on Monday, December 15, at to thank you for the things as you to thank you for the things as you and the Plainfield Country Club. her home. confirm once again that I never confirm once again that I never Was Insurance Salesman For 20 Years She was predeceased by her hus- Surviving are her husband, Jan want to be separated from you in want to be separated from you in band, William Garrigues Wigton, on Neals, and a sister, Arlene Fried- eternal glory. Thank you for your eternal glory. Thank you for your Arthur C. Crane, 90, of Plainfield He was predeceased by his wife, December 23, 2000. lander of Longwood, Fla. mercy towards me and mine. The mercy towards me and mine. The died on Monday, December 15, at Bertha Crane, in 1996. Surviving are a son, William Services took place on Thursday, person must say this prayer three person must say this prayer three the Baptist Home in Newark. Surviving are a son, Donald Crane Benson Wigton of Scotch Plains, and December 18, at the Gosselin Fu- consecutive days. After three days, consecutive days. After three days, Born in Elizabeth, he had lived in of Scotch Plains, and two grandchil- two grandchildren. neral Home in Edison. A graveside the request will be granted. This the request will be granted. This Plainfield for over 50 years. He dren. A memorial service was held on blessing followed at St. Gertrude prayer must be published after the prayer must be published after the moved to the Baptist Home in May Funeral services were held on Fri- Tuesday, December 23, at the Cres- Cemetery in Colonia. favor is granted. P.G. favor is granted. B.R. 2000. day, December 19, at the Memorial December 25, 2003 Mr. Crane had been employed as a Funeral Home, 155 South Avenue in salesman with Washington National Fanwood. Interment followed at Hill- Insurance for 20 years before retir- side Cemetery in Scotch Plains. ing in 1975. He was formerly em- Memorial contributions may be ployed as a manager with A&P. made to the Memorial Fund of the Dooley Funeral Service, Inc. He was a member of the United United Presbyterian Church, 525 East Caught in the Presbyterian Church in Plainfield; Front Street, Plainfield 07060 or to Caring & Courteous Service to the the Old Guard of Westfield, and the the Baptist Home, 285 Roseville Corner Stone Tyrian Lodge, Free Avenue, Newark 07107. Medicaid confusion? Cranford / Westfield Area Since 1913 and Accepted Masons in Linden. December 25, 2003 Dolores Robinson, Taught in Westfield; Forethought® funeral planning Westfield President of Garden Club and Trustees 556 Westfield Avenue can help. 233-0255 Dolores “Dee” Brant Robinson of served on the Altar Guild of Saint Carolina Meadows in Chapel Hill, Paul’s Episcopal Church in John L. Dooley N.C. died there on Saturday, Decem- Westfield. Find out how Manager ber 20. Surviving are her husband of 60 NJ License # 4100 Born in Somerville on February 5, years, Malcolm Graham “Mac” by calling... 1919, she lived most of her life in Robinson; three daughters, Virginia Westfield. Brown of Chapel Hill, Sally Brown- Mrs. Robinson taught in the el- ing of Allentown, Pa. and Cindi ementary schools of Westfield for Shaffer of Denver, Colo.; four grand- many years before retiring in 1964. children and three great-grandchil- FUNERAL Cranford She continued as a substitute teacher dren. DIRECTORS until 1983. A graveside service was held on 218 North Avenue She graduated from Wheelock Col- Tuesday, December 23, at Fairview – Since 1897 – 276-0255 lege in Boston with a teaching degree. Cemetery in Westfield. She was a Past President of the Arrangements were by Walker’s Charles V. Dooley Garden Club of Westfield and of the Funeral Home in Chapel Hill and in • WILLIAM A. DOYLE • PAULETTE CRABIEL WAHLER • DALE SCHOUSTRA • LISA LO RICCO SHARP • SCOTT D. HARRINGTON, SR. Manager Board of Trustees for the Westfield Westfield with Gray’s Funeral Home, NJ License # 3703 Day Care Center. Additionally, Mrs. 318 East Broad Street. Executive Administrator – William A. Doyle Robinson was a member of the Memorial contributions may be WESTFIELD: 318 East Broad St., William A. Doyle, Mgr. • 233-0143 - NJ Lic.#2325 Westfield Service League and the made to a favorite charity. Westfield Women’s Club and had December 25, 2003 CRANFORD: 12 Springfield Ave., Dale R. Schoustra, Mgr. • 276-0092 - NJ Lic.#3707 A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, December 25, 2003 Page 9 See it all in color at! Sports Section www.goleader.com THE WEEK IN SPORTS Pages 9-14

Andrew Silber (171) SP-F Steve Carbone (215) Cranford Rob Mench (103) Westfield Lee Tomasso (152) Westfield Derek Francavilla (125) SP-F Steve Mineo (130) SP-F Districts 11 and 12 Poised to Produce Bulk of Union County Mat Champions

By DAVID B. CORBIN Darrion Caldwell of Rahway who Chris Johnson (Senior – 189) He As a sophomore, he placed 7th/8th in Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times placed fourth in the states. placed fourth at 189-lbs last year. “I the states and amassed a 32-2 record Districts 11 and 12 should, once “I expect Robbie to be a state quali- think Chris is going to have a breakout at 103. Last year, he placed fourth at again, produce the vast majority of fier and I expect him to win some year. He hits the weight room on a 125, finishing with a 33-5 record. Union County Tournament (UCT), matches in the states,” stated Blue regular basis, he’s strong, confident “He’s stronger. He’s taller. He is top-three place winners in high school Devil Head Coach Glen Kurz. “He and is showing great leadership,” ready to go,” said Head Coach John wrestling this year and should also should dominate the weight class. claimed Kurz. Scholz. Shane Mallory (189) N. Providence Darrion Caldwell (119) Rahway produce most of the Region 3 cham- Sam Kramer (Junior – 112) He Others: Freshman Mark Boyd Steve Mineo (Junior – 130) He pions from Union County. Last year, placed second in the districts and (130/135), junior Craig Hewit (130/ won the UCT, District 11 and Region the two districts produced 11 of the finished with a 20-12 record at 112. 135), senior Dave Israelow (140) and 3 titles at 125 to carry a 29-0 record JUDD NETS 5 IN FOURTH QUARTER 14 UCT champs, had nine take sec- Tom DelDuca (Junior – 145) He sophomore Steve Cruickshank (215). to AC. Mineo is ranked eighth in the ond place and eight take third. Five placed third in the UCT and won the Scotch Plains-Fanwood (Dist. 11): nation. “He’s a killer in the room. of the six county matmen, who cap- districts at 140-lbs, finishing with a The Raiders gave the Roselle Park Everyone out there knows it. He’s a Devils Lose Hoop Opener tured first in Region 3 were from 24-5 record. Panthers a run for their money for the top contender,” claimed Scholz. district 11 and 12. Scotch Plains- Lee Tomasso (Senior – 152) He UCT crown last year and seek to grab Eric Connelly (Senior – 140/145) Fanwood and Roselle Park should won the UCT and District 11 crowns the brass ring this year. They will be He placed second in the Goles, UCT battle for top UCT honors with at 145-lbs, entered the regions unde- able to present a full varsity and JV and District 11 tournaments at 135 To MOC Champ Shabazz Westfield, Union, New Providence feated and finished 17-2. Both losses team and have very few weak classes. and finished with a 24-5 record. and Rahway battling for third. were to state qualifiers. Derek Francavilla (Senior – 125) CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 By DAVID B. CORBIN Sophomores Sinnenberg, District 11 and 12 Contenders – Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times Samantha Zucker, Christina Union County Teams only: Opening the season with last year’s Fietkiewicz, Katie Reed, Anne Westfield (District 11): Meet of Champions winner Malcolm McGrath and Chip Simmons and The Blue Devils finished 10-4 last X. Shabazz proved to be no easy freshman Casey Elkoury will also Now Open! year but graduated several fine wres- chore for the rebuilding Westfield circulate in the lineup. tlers. Several, however, remain. Ad- High School girls basketball team. Prior to the game against Shabazz, ditionally, the Blue Devils have added “The 30 Minute Circuit Training Workout” The Lady Bulldogs, who have re- understanding what he was up experience in the upper weight classes A QUICK,April EASY, AFFORDABLE 12, WORKOUT 2003 EXCLUSIVELY FOR MEN turned all of their superstars, not against, Marino said, “Our goals are with the support of senior heavy- only demonstrated their athletic abil- to be very competitive, work to the weight Nick Gismondi. ity offensively but also proved to be best of our ability and use our speed Rob Mench (Senior – 103) Mench very sound defensively by quieting to our advantage. That happens to be finished 26-4 (22 pins, two tech falls), the Blue Devils, 40-7, in Westfield one of our strong points. We are placed second in the UCT and Dis- on December 19. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 trict 11 losing both title bouts to Bulldogs Iashia Hemmingway, Shahida Williams and Kellindra Zackery each netted nine points with Westfield Baseball League “The 30 Minute Circuit Training Workout” Hemmingway hitting all of her points in the first half. Matee Ajavan and A QUICK, EASY, AFFORDABLE WORKOUT EXCLUSIVELY FOR MEN Aliyah Rainey each finished with four Registration Day for • Body Cuts™ System Promotes Body Fat Loss, points. Junior Katie Judd nailed a three- Spring 2004 Season • BuildsBody Cuts Lean™ SystemMuscle Promotes& Reduces Body Stress Fat Loss, pointer and a layup to lead the Blue • ReducesBuilds Lean Stress Muscle & Reduces Stress Devils with five points and sophomore Kindergarten thru 9th Grade Lauren Sinnenberg had two points. • Cuts Uses Smooth Hydraulic Equipment This season, the Blue Devils have • Safe For Men Of All Ages returned two starting seniors, Jackie January 10, 2004 • 9 am to 12 noon Pena and Melissa Rosen, and junior YMCA in Westfield Judd who experienced plenty of var- sity time but also picked up another FOR CONVENIENCE AND TO FACILITATE THE REGISTRATION 50% OFF senior, Prudence Alexander, who PROCESS - BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2004 WESTFIELD BASEBALL HAS Initiation Fees with this ad would add some support. “She will MADE ON-LINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE!! 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PUBLICATION Area High School Blue Devil Coach Giordano Wrestling Results: DECEMBER 20: New Providence 48, Middlesex 21 Says It’s Time To Go! New Providence 64, Colonia 9 Ross Baldwin at 125, Jon Reedy at By FRED LECOMTE cluded seven Union County (UC) that prepared the Blue Devils to play 130, Marc Neuwirth at 135, Dan Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times championships and nine Watchung the game to the best of their ability. Fellinger at 152 and Shane Mallory Serving as Westfield High School Conference titles. The Blue Devils “He consistently pushes hard and at 189 won both of their bouts. (WHS) girls’ assistant soccer coach also won seven state sectional titles works us to reach to our full poten- Union 51, Brearley 18 in 1985 through 1990 and taking and were state Group 4 runners-up tial,” said Palatucci. “Personally, he Farmers Tom Duffy (119), Pete over the reins as head coach in 1991, three times. He was named 1991 always pointed out what I needed to Jacangelo (135), Chuck Mueller Peter Giordano formally announced Area Coach of the Year and, in 1992 improve on and told me the things (145), Dan Moss (152) and Jesse Von it was time to let go and retired this and 1994, was named Union County that I did right. That is something Linden picked up victories. Bear Jon year. coach of the Year. In 1994 and 2002, other coaches never did. Everyone on Rego won at 160-lbs. “I thoroughly enjoyed working Giordano became New Jersey Girls’ the team is very sad to see coach Soccer Coaches Association and large Giordano go and I speak for everyone Kearny Invitational: with Giordano,” said Westfield Ath- 1. Lodi 133.5, 2. Kearny 116, 6. letic Director Ed Tranchia. “He was school Coach of the Year. In 2002, when I say that. The drive that pushed Westfield 92.5. a very dependable, consciences and the Blue Devils shared the UC title us so hard and the motivation he hard working coach who was an ex- with Oak Knoll and finished second brought us, he will be missed. He was Blue Devils Rob Mench (103), Lauren S. Pass for The Westfield Leader and The Times pert in his field. He handled the in the Group 4 state championship. not only a great coach, he was a really Sam Kramer (112) and Tom Del DESCRIBING A GREAT COACH, A GREAT MAN…Blue Devil senior soccer Duca (145) placed first. Lee Tomasso co-captain Lauren Shelman, left, and junior Gio Palatucci, center, describe the program extremely well and put his Giordano accumulated a 210-50- great friend and we are going to miss many accomplishments of Westfield Head Soccer coach, Peter Giordano, in heart and soul into every kid he ever 17 record and notched his 200th vic- him. He will always be with us.” (152) placed second. background, to Leader/Times Sports writer Fred Lecomte coached. We talked a lot, but I never tory with a 2-1 victory over Linden Westfield High School and the Hopatcong Invitational: told him what to do. I just tried to on September 17, 2003 in Westfield community salutes and thanks a good Cranford’s Steve Carbone (215) steer him into what I thought was the and led the Watchung Conference person, a good coach – Peter placed first. Chris Taglia (135) and right direction, but he was extremely defensively for the second-straight Giordano. Pat Hogan (152) placed second. Killer B’s, Karis, ‘Coc’ Named capable and I learned a lot from him year. The Blue Devils allowed only “I had no reason to think it would at the same time. I’m not only losing eight goals this season, posting 0.44 be so, but to me it was all overdue,” Hanover Park Tourney: a great coach, but I’m losing a very goals against average. said Giordano. “I was offered an- Rahway placed third with 60 points All-UC, 1st Team in Football great friend and a fine gentleman.” “There are not many coaches like other opportunity and I had to take behind winner Hanover Park at 117 Scotch Plains-Fanwood High tackles and, as a tight end, excelled One must realize and try to under- Mr. Giordano,” said senior Co-Cap- care of my health. Although I still put and Pequannock at 62. Ryan Wilson School seniors Travis Boff, Kyle in throwing key blocks. Bachi was stand what Giordano experienced in tain Lauren Shelman. “I was really in many hours as athletic director at (112), Darrion Caldwell (119) and Baker, Charlie Bachi and Tim Karis named All-UC First Team Defense. his 13 years at the helm. Kids came scared to death when I met him at my other school and my wife always Ed McCray (125) captured first and along with Westfield High School Cocozziello, as a quarterback, rushed to the high school soccer scene after first in my freshman year. Now, after has a list of things for me to do, she Carlos Nicasio (145) placed second. senior Jan Cocozziello have been for 444 yards and passed for 633 experiencing tremendous successes having played for him four years, is happy that I now return home with named to the All-Union County (UC), yards, and defensively, set a Westfield in the Westfield Soccer Association. I’m so sad, because it was the best a little less stress. She will always Blue Devil Mat Invt’l First Team by The Star Ledger. In High School record with eight inter- Thus, the WHS coaching position experience of my life. He really cares tell everyone, ‘It was Pete’s deci- total, six Raiders, four Blue Devils ceptions. He also was selected Sec- called for an individual who was able about the players and the team on sion.’” Set at Roselle Park and four Governor Livingston High- ond Team All-State Defense. to step into a very high-pressure, and off the field. On the field, he The annual Westfield High landers received All-UC honors. Raider center Mark Giannaci made high-powered situation that de- makes 26 different players become Raider Matmen Crush School Blue Devil Invitational Boff, an inside linebacker and full- All-UC Second Team Offense and manded unbelievable expectations. one team and, off the field, you can Wrestling Tournament will be held back, was given the distinct honor of Raider lineman Marc Fabiano made Anything short of a state champion- talk to him like a friend. I know a Kearny, Plainfield at Roselle Park High School on being named All-UC Defensive Player the All-UC Second Team Defense. ship is considered an unsuccessful long time ago, Westfield was a team Despite having four of its best Tuesday, December 30. The pre- of the Year. Additionally, he was se- Blue Devil lineman Montel Glasco year. that was unbeatable and that the past wrestlers competing in the Beast of liminary bouts are set to begin at lected Second Team All-State De- and Mark Dowling were named All- Giordano asserted his role as the few years it was different, but things the East Tournament at the Univer- 9:30 a.m., quarterfinals at 11 a.m., fense. Baker, a halfback who rushed UC Second Team Defense and Tyshon man in charge. Although he pro- always change. Teams around us got sity of Delaware, the Scotch Plains- semifinals at 12:30 p.m. and the for more than 1,200 yards, made All- Blackmon was selected All-UC Third duced championship teams many a lot better, so there is better compe- Fanwood High School wrestling team medal round for third and fifth UC Offense and also was named Sec- Team Defense. Raider Rob Maroney times, it did not happen every year tition and that is a good thing. Last defeated Kearny, 40-27, on Decem- places at 2:30 with the champion- ond Team All-Group 3. Karis, a line- was named All-UC Third Team. although everyone expected it from year we proved that the spirit is alive ber 19 and Plainfield, 74-4, on De- ship immediately following. man, was named All-UC Offense and Highlander safety Brian Beal was him. and well and we proved what we cember 20. Derek Francavilla (125- Eight teams will be competing Second Team All-Group 3. named to the All-UC First Team “He always got the most out of his could do in Westfield and it carried lbs), Steve Mineo (130-lbs), Eric for the title: West Milford, Howell, Bachi, as a linebacker, excelled in Defense and All-Group 2 Third Team. players that he had,” said Tranchina. over into this year. Even though the Connelly (140-lbs) and Andrew Roselle Park, Hanover Park, Vinny Carangelo, Andrew Egan and “His teams were always well record was not as good, it does not Silber (171-lbs) took the trip south to Piscataway, Westfield, Colonia and High School Girls Chris Bergeski made the All-UC coached, always well prepared, al- matter. I believe that we really have compete in the “Beast”. Madison. Last year, West Milford Third Team. ways fundamentally sound and al- a strong team and the leadership that Bouncing most of their wrestlers took top honors in team scoring Basketball Results: ways classy, and that typifies the will teach future leaders to be strong. up a weight class, the Raiders won with Howell finishing second and type of teams we want at Westfield.” The community has responded just eight of the 14 bouts against Kearny Roselle Park placing third. DECEMBER 20: See it all on the Web! and all but one against Plainfield. Paterson Eastside 40, Scotch Giordano’s accomplishments in- the way it always has. They are a part Charlie Bachi at 215-lbs, Ricky Olsen Plains-Fanwood 36 of the team and that is good.” www.goleader.com Junior Co-Captain and forward Gio at 119-lbs, Ronnie Ferrara at 125- High School Boys Hillary Klimowicz scored 16 Raider Hoopmen Top lbs, A. J. Watson at 145-lbs and Pedro points, Maura Gillooly put in 13 and Palatucci outlined Giordano as a to- Coyt at 152-lbs, won both of their Basketball Results: Elizabeth DeCataldo netted five for tally fair coach who constantly ob- Blue Devil Boys Muffle Cougar Boys, 64-47 bouts. DECEMBER 20: the 1-1 Raiders. Essence Carson served, corrected and instilled drills scored 15 for Paterson. Bulldog Cagers, 63-57 Millburn 58, Union Catholic 38 The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High Shannon Brown sank eight points The Westfield High School boys Paterson 7 8 7 18 40 School boys basketball team defeated for the Vikings and Brandon Baffard basketball team won its season Sc. Pl.-Fanwood 14 8 6 8 36 the Cranford Cougars, 64-47, in the FSPY Piranha Swim Boys nailed 13 for the Millers. Immaculata 54, Union Catholic 40 opener, 63-57, against host Malcolm Hoop Group Tip-Off Classic at Seton X. Shabazz on December 19. Senior Union Catholic 10 15 4 9 38 Lauren Huber scored 22 points for Hall Gym in South Orange on De- Millburn 13 16 12 17 58 the Vikings and Lauren DeFalco guard Jan Cocozziello led the Blue cember 21. Sophomore Derrick Top Ridgewood Y Boys Devils with 18 points and senior Cranford 54, Metuchen 30 poured in 25 for Immaculata. Caracter laid in 20 points and pulled 14) Jon Feeley (1:08.79) and (15-18) forward Tyshon Blackmon netted 16. down 20 rebounds for the 1-0 Raiders. The Fanwood-Scotch Plains Terrance Grier netted 19 points and Union Catholic 8 11 12 9 40 Cocozziello put in 11 of his points YMCA Piranhas boys swim team J. Livolsi took second, while (9-10) Chris Brown put in 16 for Cranford. Immaculata 9 11 12 22 54 Michael Johnson and Lance Tho- Greg Favreau (44.36), (11-12) P. in the first half and Blackmon came mas netted 16 and 14 points, respec- beat Ridgewood YMCA on Decem- Cranford 9 10 16 20 54 Cranford 55, Metuchen 31 on strong with 12 second-half points. ber 20, bringing its record to 2-1. Livolsi (34.91) and (13-14) Matt Metuchen 5 6 8 12 30 tively, for the Raiders and Sean Fuller Green (1:09.85) touched third. Amanda Mitchell scored 16 points Terrence Bryant nailed 13 points and hit seven. Cougar Terence Grier led In individual medley, (9-10) Greg for the 1-1 Cougars. Joe Korfmacher scored nine. Baliko took first in 1:20.40 and Kevin In butterfly, (8&U) Tim Walsh’s all scoring with 27 points, including 20.29 took third. (9-10s) Dunn Nets Cagers Defeat Cranford 9 10 16 20 55 Westfield 12 12 17 22 63 two three-pointers. Jan, third in 1:28.34. (11-12) Zach Metuchen 5 6 8 12 31 Peart (2:27.67) and Peter Livolsi (36.70), Mike Daly (41.33) and Jan Shabazz 10 17 12 18 57 Cranford 12 16 8 11 47 (41.70) swept. (11-12) Walker and JCC Lakers 36-27 Sc. Pl.-Fanwood 18 14 15 17 64 (2:42.16) also placed 1-3, respec- tively. (13-14) Scott Marino placed M. Henkels took 1-3 in 30.14 and Led by Michael Riesenberg with Lady Raiders Cage first in 2:11.11, and (15-18) Ryan 34.07, respectively. (13-14) D. 15 points, the Nets stormed back CLASSIFIEDS Hauptman (2:10.71) and Pat Daurio Livolsi (1:04.35) and Feeley from a seven-point deficit at the be- (2:08.29) touched 1-2. (1:07.47) and (15-18) Jon Sheffield ginning of the final quarter, to defeat Cougar Cagers, 63-30 Touching 1-2 in freestyle were: (2:08.78) and Mike Sheffield the Lakers, 36-27, in the fifth/sixth APARTMENT FOR RENT FOREIGN LANGUAGE COACH The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High (8&U) Ryan Gajdzisz (34:20) and (2:12.91) touched 2-3. grade Basketball League of Central Westfield Apartment on the School girls basketball team did Matt DeBiasse (34:68); (9-10) Joe The Piranhas dominated medley New Jersey, at the JCC in Scotch German and French relays. (9-10) R. Henkels, Baliko, Boulevard, one block from Language Coaching the most roaring in its season opener Dunn (1:14.08) and Ryan Henkels Plains on December 21. trainstation, fully furnished, 3rd floor, by caging the Cranford Cougars, (1:14.81); and (15-18) James Livolsi Dunn and Daly (2:35.53); (11-12) Z. The Lakers took an early lead Authenticate your Peart, Ben Smith, Walker and M. no pets, couple or one person, pronounciation, conversation 63-30, in Cranford on December (1:52.94) and David Hauptman thanks to Zach Flanzman who con- $1,500.00. Call (908) 233-5741 19. Junior Maura Gillooly hit four (1:53.51). (11-12) Eric Walker (59.08) Henkels (2:13.73); (13-14) D. Livolsi, tributed 15 points, but only two of and oral presentation skills. Marino, Feeley and Brian O’Donnell Call (908) 755-6083 three-pointers and led the Raiders and Mike Henkels (1:07.44) finished those came in the fourth quarter when FOR RENT with 18 points. 1-3, respectively, while (13-14) Daniel (1:54.15); and (15-18) R. Hauptman, the Nets caught fire, outscoring the Daurio, J. Sheffield and D. Hauptman WESTFIELD MATH TUTOR The 1-0 Raiders, who held a 35-18 Livolsi (2:04.77) netted second. Lakers 19-3. Greg Stein dominated lead at the half, got production from In breaststroke, (8&U) Jeff Peart (1:46.92) all took first. the boards and scored six points, OVERSIZED 2 CAR GARAGE Ivy-level mathematics degree, IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY, their entire bench. In addition, start- and DeBiasse had strong swims. (9- Jonah Offitzer scored four, Jessie proven results. Calculus, ers Hillary Klimowicz scored nine 10) Baliko (45.68) took second and Westfield G8 Girls Top Ozamar netted three and Kyle SAFE, SECURE LOCATION, statistics, trigonometry, math IDEAL FOR STORAGE points, Jen Burke and Jen Russell John Murphy (48:08) was third. (11- Douglass, Adam Offitzer, Alex SATs. Joe (908) 781-0888. each netted seven points and Liz 12) Pat Keenan (41.28) took third. IHM, St. Theresa’s Ozamar and Evan Schlissel had a $250.00/M The WBA travel eighth grade girls Call Lori (973) 397-3541 PIANO LESSONS DeCataldo sank six. Mareika Friess (13-14) Marino won easily in 1:04.69, basket apiece. Ben Goland contrib- scored eight points and Allie Zazzali as did (15-18) Pat Daurio in 1:06.41. basketball team won its first two- uted on the boards and Zach Jacobs OFFICE FOR RENT TEACHING SINCE 1970 had three. Backstrokers (8&U) Gajdzisz regular season games, beating IHM, was strong on defense. (19.50), (9-10) R. Henkels (38.95), 49-32, and St Theresa’s of Summit, The Lakers scoring included six OFFICE, 12 FT X 12 FT (908) 889-4095 Sc. Pl.-Fanwood 16 19 16 12 63 IN PSYCHOTHERAPY SUITE Cranford 10 8 5 7 30 (11-12) Z. Peart (31.70) and (15-18) 56-20. The team’s record, including from Dylan Simon, five from Todd $500 PER MONTH. R. Hauptman all touched first. (13- the fall league, improved to 10-1. Morling and a point from Matt SERVICE TECHNICIAN PUBLIC NOTICE Against IHM of Scotch Plains, Erin Weintraub. (908) 232-6432 PUBLIC NOTICE For new home construction for the FAIRVIEW CEMETERY Miller sank 21 points, Stephanie AUTO FOR SALE Warranty Dept. Some carpentry. ANNUAL MEETING TOWN OF WESTFIELD Slodyzcka put in 12 and Alli St. Helen’s Girls Roll General maintenance experience The Annual Meeting of the Lot Owners of MacDonald had eight points. 95 Pontiac Grand Prix, This is to certify that the within resolution Gabrielle O’Leary and Danielle Metuchen in Opener 4-Door, Green, Low Mileage, needed. Tools and a truck a must. Fairview Cemetery will be held at the is a true and exact copy of the resolution Cemetary office, 1100 East Broad Street, adopted on December16, 2003 by the Town Infantino chipped in four points Excellent Condition. References. Pay commensurate The St Helen’s girls eighth grade Westfield, New Jersey, Monday, January Council of the Town of Westfield. apiece. Rose Driscoll led team with basketball team rolled in its Metuchen Asking $4,750 with experience. Fax (732) 404-1842 26, 2004 at 8:00 P.M., for the election of four Bernard A Heeney seven assists. CYO opener, beating St. Ann’s of Call (908) 665-2527 Trustees each for a term of three years, to Town Clerk P/T BABYSITTER WANTED succeed Frank J. Abella, Jr., Steven J. RESOLUTION Against St. Theresa’s, Miller buck- Raritan, 76-26, to improve to 5-1. Burke, Franklyn Sullebarger, and Donald LAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE eted 18 first-half points, finishing POOL TABLE 1-2 mornings a week and/or every St. Helen’s jumped ahead, 27-2, in W. MacDonald, whose terms will then ex- DECEMBER 16, 2003 the game with 24 points. Allison the first quarter. Gab O’Leary scored Like New! Complete with all other Satuday night. Perfect for pire and for the transaction of such other RESOLVED, that the Organization meet- business as may be presented at the meet- Oberlander scored 10 points while 10 of her 15 points in that quarter and accessories, Pool sticks, etc. college student. Experience ing of the Town Council of the Town of Infantino had five points and six Asking $650 perferred. Call after 4:00 PM. ing. Westfield for the year 2004 will be held on Erin Miller scored nine of her game- Richard M. Ralph, Secretary/Treasurer Tuesday, January 6, 2004 at 7:00 pm. rebounds. Driscoll, Claire Bennett (908) 665-2527 high 21. Stephanie Slodyzcka had 12 (908) 317-5089 2T-12/25/03&1/1/04,The LeaderFee: $29.58 1 T - 12/15/03, The Leader Fee: $14.28 and Slodyzcka (12 rebounds) had points and 14 rebounds and Diana four points each. Diana Venizia added Venizia had 10 points while Danielle two points and six rebounds. Infantino had eight points. Claire Bennett finished with six points and PUBLIC NOTICE 12 rebounds. Ally Oberlander chipped DEEGAN TOWN OF WESTFIELD in two points and Rose Driscoll had BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT two points and nine assists. Notice is hereby given that Westfield Board In the game, St. Helen’s estab- of Adjustment adopted Resolutions at its lished a new single-game point total December 8, 2003 meeting for the following record for the girls basketball pro- applications heard at its November 10, 2003 gram. The team made 19 of 29 from ROOFING meeting: 1. Philip and Alicia Weaver, 509 Dorian the foul line. Place seeking permission to erect a garage-grant. PUBLIC NOTICE 2. John and Cherie Fritz, 619 Maye Street NOTICE OF ACTION TAKEN BY COMPANY seeking permission to rebuild wrap FANWOOD BOROUGH COUNCIL around front porch-grant. 3. Tom and Shannon Brennan, 12 TAKE NOTICE that on the 11th day of Stoneleigh Park, seeking permission November, 2003, the Borough Council of to erect a two-story addition-grant. the Borough of Fanwood adopted the follow- 908-322-6405 4. John and Gayle Praitano, 325 Massa- ing Resolution: chusetts Street seeking permission to 1. Resolution No. 03-11-176 memorial- erect a three (3) season sunroom- ized the decision of the Borough Council, at grant with conditions. a duly noticed public hearing held on Octo- 5. Matt Nilsen, 311 Roanoke Road seek- ber 29, 2003, pursuant to N.J.S.A 40:55D- ing permission to erect a deck-grant. 17, in connection with an appeal brought by Tear-Offs • Re-Roofs Subscribe or Renew Online! 6. Rodger and Elizabeth Herndon, 815 resident objectors, to reverse the Fanwood Highland Avenue seeking permission Borough Planning Board’s July 23, 2003, www.goleader.com/subscribe to erect a second floor addition-grant. grant of use variance and other approvals to 7. Albert and Karen Rimondi, 533 Clark Verizon Wireless to erect a telecommunica- Repairs • Gutters Street seeking permission to erect a tions facility at Block 50, Lot 30, on the The Westfield Leader cantilevered bay window-denied. Borough Tax Map. The Times of Scotch Plains - Fanwood Colleen Mayer, Secretary Eleanor McGovern Free Estimates • Fully Insured Board of Adjustment Borough Clerk 1 T - 12/25/03, The Leader Fee: $27.03 1 T - 12/25/03, The Times Fee: $18.36 A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, December 25, 2003 Page 11

Districts 11 and 12 Poised to Produce Bulk of Union County Mat Champions

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Charlie Bachi (Senior – 189) Ed McCray (Sophomore – 125) He Bachi won the UCT and District 11 won the district title and placed third in crowns at 160 and finished 20-5. the region at 112, finishing 26-3. Andrew Silber (Senior – 171) He captured the Region 3 title at 171 and finished with a 28-6 record. Tom DelDuca (145) Westfield According to Coach Scholz, “He’s attacking you with all parts of the body. He’s going to repeat in the states and he’s going to go a lot further.” Marc Fabiano (Junior – 215) He grabbed first in the districts and fin- ished 21-7 at 189. David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times “In our area, I don’t see anyone APPLYING DEFENSIVE PRESSURE…Christina Fietkiewicz, No. 5, and stopping him,” stated Scholz. Lauren Sinnenberg, No. 20, apply defensive pressure on Lady Bulldog Shahida Others: Seniors Pedro Coyt (152/ Williams, No. 11. 160), Andrew Loomis (Hwt), Yoav Ross Baldwin (119) 2002 Photo N. Pr. Nudell (160) and Tom Gorin (152); juniors Anthony Ferrante (140/145) and A. J. Watson (140/145); sopho- Jon Reedy (Senior – 125) He Devils Lose Hoop Opener more Matt Fleissner (103/112) and placed third in Region 3 at 119 and freshmen Sal Gano, Dave DeNichilo Ed McCray (125) Rahway finished 26-6. and Rick Olsen – all (103/112) and To MOC Champ Shabazz Pat Mineo (135). Ryan Wilson “The Ace in the CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 Marc Fabiano (215) SP-F Cranford Cougars (District 11): Hole” (Freshman – 103/112) Ranked The Cougars under head coach as one of the top wrestlers at 103. “Ryan is the ‘Brain’. He is prob- basically going to keep mixing people ing some problems shooting the ball, Darren Torsone, formerly a West up inside.” but our goal today was to move the ball Essex High School standout, look to ably one of the most technical wres- tlers we ever got here,” said Reinoso. True to his word, Marino worked around and take a quality shot.” be balanced across the board but all of his players into the action and Shabazz 7 13 7 13 40 have special strength in the 215-lb “He goes to the magnet school and was number 1 in his class last year. attempted an offensive strategy of Westfield 0 0 0 7 7 and heavyweight classes and are able slowing the pace of the game against to fill every weight class. He is not just athletically talented but he is a very smart individual.” the Bulldogs. The Blue Devil defense “We are going to be a solid team yielded just seven points to Shabazz UC Softball Umpire throughout the lineup and our se- in the first and third quarters, but Training Course Set niors (Steve Carbone and Chris Westfield’s offense just could not pen- Venditti) are going to lead us,” men- etrate the Bulldog defense and trailed The Greater Union County Soft- tioned Torsone. 32-0 before Judd hit her two-pointer. ball Umpires Association will con- Steve Carbone (Senior – 215) He After the game, Marino com- duct its annual softball umpires placed second in the UCT, first in Jon Reedy (125) New Providence mented, “I was pleased that we played training program beginning Tues- District 11 and third in Region 3 to very good defense. We made things day, February 24. The classes will qualify for AC. a little difficult for them, but when take place from 7 to 9 p.m. on Charlie Bachi (189) SP-F Shane Mallory (Junior – 189) He Tuesdays at the Union County Ad- “I want to pick up where I left off. was the UCT and Region 3 champ at we got into man (man-to-man de- The kid I lost to in the region semifi- fense) they kind of did what they ministration Building in Elizabeth. 189 and finished 29-4. The course is open to men and nals last year – Bill Beiermeister of Others: Marc Neuwirth (135), Dan wanted to. We knew that was one of Boonton – is back and I think I can their strong points, so we sat in a women, 18 years old or older. For Fellinger (145/152), Adel Afzal (103), more information, please call the beat him this year,” said Carbone who Chris Pennisi (130) and freshmen Mike zone and made them work a little.” added, “I think we are going to be a lot Offensively, “In the beginning, we association at (908) 232-7042, or Boccellari (112), Larry Peotter (119/ Bill Smith at (908) 259-0154, or better than last year. We had a lot of 125) and Trevor Martin (215/Hwt) managed to slow them down a little bit. young guys who now have a year of We got some passes in. We were hav- visit www.ASAsoftballucnj.org varsity experience under their belt.” Defending Union County Chris Venditti (Senior – Hwt) He Ryan Wilson (103) Rahway Champions – Roselle Park: could be in the mix for high honors in (Head Coach John Ranieri) the UCT. Darnell Butler (Junior – Hwt) The Panthers have several returning Region qualifier last year. veterans: Juniors Kevin Blatt (103/ Others: Seniors Justin Racelis 112), Joe Blackford (125), Troy (135), Marlon Zuniga (145/152) and MacDermant (125/30) and Brian Swick Jon Ott (103/112); junior Jeff Page (119/125); seniors Jim Garrison (152/ (140); sophomores Carlos Nicasio 160), Chris Bouthoutsos (215/Hwt) (145) and Andre Neblett (215). Sam Kramer (112) Westfield and Jose Aravena (215/Hwt) Assisting with New Providence information was Fred Lecomte. Lady Vikings Topple Mt. St. Mary, 30-13 The Union Catholic High School girls basketball team started its sea- son on the right foot with a 30-13 Chris Venditti (Hwt) Cranford toppling of Mount St. Mary in Scotch Plains on December 19. Senior center Lauren Huber led the FLIGHT CHAMPIONS…The Scotch Plains-Fanwood U13 Blue Thunder boys Others: Juniors Chris Taglia (135), Vikings with 11 points and Ali soccer team became flight champions. Pictured, left to right, are: front row; Steve Daubert (171) and Anthony Farawell put in nine and added six Greg Bencivengo, Billy Johnston, Denzel Amankwah, Colin Grimm and Michael Crecca (125), and sophomore Pat rebounds. Roth; second row, Marc Eric Fusillo, Dan Rodriquez, Pat Clancy, Danny Gore Hogan (145/152). and Andrew Smith; top row, Conditioning and Defense Coach Marc Fusillo, Carlos Nicasio (145) Rahway Mt. St. Mary 2 5 4 2 13 Mark Koransky, Tyler Della Badia, Daniel Meurer, Juan Castillo, Chris Chris Johnson (189) Westfield Rahway (District 11): Union Catholic 12 6 4 8 30 McManus and Head Coach Mike Walsh. The Indians always roar onto the New Providence (District 12): scene with a wealth of physical wres- The Pioneers under head coach tlers and always seem to be able to Gary Bremer always have a streak of add an ace in the hole. The Indians, competitiveness and return nearly Elizabeth Bataille, a consistent top achiever under Head Coach Anthony Reinoso, the same lineup, including three out- are very young, but talented, and in the Burgdorff ERA Westfield office, has standing wrestlers who qualified for been honored as Sales Agent of the month for every weight class will be filled. The AC and three fine freshmen. only classes weak in experience will “We have a lot of varsity experi- November, 2003. Elizabeth is a member of be 160, 171 and 189, but sophomore ence returning to the mat,” noted the New Jersey Association of Realtors Andre Neblett will be a tough addi- Bremer. “Last year our record was (NJAR) Circle of Excellence Sales Club from tion at 215. 10-8 but we did lose a number of “We are very young. We lost eight 1989 through 2002 and has achieved Bronze close matches. We expect big things Level in 1997-2002. Bataille was also named kids to graduation but we have a this year.” very, very talented sophomore class,” Ross Baldwin (Junior – 119) He to the prestigious 2003 President’s Council at said Reinoso. placed third in the UCT but avenged Burgdorff’s annual Awards luncheon held in Darrion Caldwell (Sophomore – his loss to become the Region 3 March, 2003. She has also attained Burgdorff 119) He placed fourth in the states at champ at 112 and finished 27-4. Eric Connelly (140) SP-F 103 and finished 35-3. awards for Leaders Circle 1999-2003, Presidents Elite 2003 and the Distinguished Sales Club 1999-2003.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE CROSSROADS TO FEATURE ‘BROTHER JOHN BROWN’ Elizabeth Bataille Sales Agent for Garwood, NJ – December 17, 2003 – On Wednesday, December 31, 2003, The November, 2003 Crossroads in Garwood, NJ will present the ‘New Year’s Eve 2004’ featuring the classic rock sounds of local artists ‘Brother John Brown’. Pat Connolly, Sales Associate with Burgdorff For over seven years, The Crossroads has featured seven nights of live music, including ERA, Westfield office, has been named Listing playing host to the ‘Monday Open – Mic Night,’ ‘Tuesday Night Jazz Jam’ sessions, and Agent of the Month for November 2003 with the dance oriented ‘Hi – Fi Wednesdays.’ Every week, musicians and fans alike travel 2 listings and a dollar volume of over $1 from all over the Tri-State Area to be a part of what has become a hotbed of area music. Million. Pat is a member of the Garden State Likewise, ‘Brother John Brown’ has been entertaining audiences for more than six years MLS and the Greater Union County with their unique sets of live classic rock. By merging all “the music you grew up with” Association of Realtors. Pat has continually together with warm and welcoming stage presence, ‘The Brothers’ create an engaging attained Million Dollar Sales Club status since environment that is timeless – like the music they play. 1988, achieving Silver Level status in 1992, 98, 99 and 2001 with over seven million in sales. Hosting the event will be Westfield native, Don Dazzo, fresh off of hosting the annual Consistently a Top Producer in the Westfield ‘Asbury Park Music Awards’ last month. Mr. Dazzo is also known as the founding office, Pat has been named to the Distinguished member of local lounge act ‘Everlounge’ and as front man of popular club band ‘The Sales Club, Leaders Circle in 2002 and the Whirling Dervishes.’ His energetic and comedic style is sure to add a great dynamic to President’s Elite in 1999 and 2000. this all-out celebration.

The Crossroads will complete the gala first night with a multi-course buffet dinner, a six- hour top-shelf open bar, and all the necessary accoutrements to ring in the New Year. Pat Connolly The party will not end early, however, as The Crossroads closes on this special evening at Listing Agent for 5am. November, 2003

New Year’s Eve 2004 at The Crossroads will commence at 7pm at 78 North Avenue in Garwood, NJ. Limited tickets are still available for this all-inclusive event at $90 in advance by visiting www.xxroads.com or by calling the club-line on 908.232.5666. You must be 21 years of age to enter. For more information please visit www.xxroads.com or www.brotherjohnbrown.com; call The Crossroads club-line, or e-mail [email protected]. Paid Bulletin Board WESTFIELD OFFICE • 600 NORTH AVE., W. • (908) 233-0065 Each office is independently owned and operated. Page 12 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION WF Day Care Center Bids THE STUDENT VIEW Concepts & Thought Farewell to Vera Calhoun The weekly column written by local high school students WESTFIELD – During their 36th one here at the center,” said Rachel annual holiday party, members of Arasin, Executive Director of the the Westfield Day Care Center hon- center. Student Offers Salient Points ored retiring Director of the Westfield Mrs. Calhoun was honored with a Infant/Toddler Center, Vera Calhoun. plaque, which described the quali- A member of the staff for 16 years, ties of everyday heroes. Regarding Parking Around WHS Mrs. Calhoun will retire this month. During the festivities, the children Mary Ann Williams “Vera has been an inspirational sang holiday songs. Classroom par- By MICHELLE KUPPERSMITH The issue of Open Lunch is also a leader of staff, family and children ties and a visit with Santa Claus were Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times vital part of this problem. I thought and will be greatly missed by every- also held. Parking is a big issue in Westfield that we had that resolved last year. Sixth Grade Mathematics Teacher, right now. Okay, it’s actually a huge Juniors and seniors are allowed to Park Middle School, Scotch Plains issue that encompasses several dif- leave during their lunch periods. Now, By MICHELLE Le POIDEVIN What I Love About the School ferent smaller problems around town. we are subject to draconian laws Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times For me, the most imminent matter about wearing our quickly snapped District: “There is a great diversity is the parking situation around photos from last year around our Age: 53 of population and a lot of parental Westfield High School (WHS). So necks, and ONLY on a lanyard. Hometown: Before moving to support and interest in the children,” much has been going on in the past Driving is part of the problem be- Clark, Ms. Williams she stated. year or so about this, but no one has cause that’s how we get to Quizno’s was a Plainfield resi- Favorite Topic to really found a solid solution. and Burger King. If we have Open dent. Teach: Ms. Will- Recently, the Town Council took Lunch, then juniors should also be Education: Ms. iams loves to teach the current proposal off the table, able to park close to the school in Williams obtained her pre-algebra because and next year’s council will have to order to have easy access to their car Bachelor of Arts de- students get to decide what to do about the fiasco. during lunchtime. We only have a gree in Elementary “leave the land of The reason why no compromise has measly 40 minutes, you know. Education, Grades K plain arithmetic and been reached is because there will From there arises the problem of through 8 from New- learn a new lan- never be one that satisfies all parties kids loitering on streets adjacent to ark State College, cur- guage, so to speak.” involved as long as the situation is the school like Edgar Road. From rently known as Kean At that time, she the same. Changes must be made. personal experience, I can say that University. At noted, the pupils On one side are the students, who there are kids hanging out there no Marygrove College in can apply all of the think they deserve the right to park on matter what. There is a row of trees Detroit, Mich., she re- basic math prin- whatever streets they want. On the that block the view from the school, ceived her Master of ciples in a new, ex- other side are the residents, who also and therefore it will always be a Arts degree in Teach- citing way. deserve the right to have a quiet street popular area to stand around. ing. Currently, she is Mary Ann Williams The Future of devoid of loitering, littering teenagers. Yet only a very small percentage pursuing a supervi- Education in Yet, there are factors that are for- of students can be included in this sory certificate. America: “We need to become more gotten or not considered when people Previous Experience: From 1972 competitive and I think there is a lot group. A good number of us are law- HAPPY RETIREMENT…The staff, children and families of the Westfield Day start complaining about students’ park- abiding citizens, just like most of the to 1978, Ms. Williams taught sixth of overlapping in the curriculum that grade at Brunner Elementary School needs to be addressed,” said Ms. Care Center gathered for their 36th annual holiday party on December 11 and ing. The issues are usually ones which people who read this paper. Stereo- dedicated the evening’s festivities to Vera Calhoun. only impact students, but do not enter typing is never a good thing. Don’t in Scotch Plains. After this posi- Williams. “The countries ahead of the minds of adults, especially those let a select few ruin it for the whole. tion, she taught nursery school stu- us have done away with re-teaching who do not have children. Those residing near the school have dents and parochial school pupils. basic concepts and have moved stu- Educator Turturiello Named First of all, when somebody tells me a right to complain, because the stu- In 1987, she returned to the Scotch dents along and ahead.” Based on I should be walking to school I want dents I described above do some- Plains-Fanwood public school dis- workshops she has attended and read- them to try and carry my backpack. times become disruptive. However, trict as a sixth grade mathematics ing she has done, Ms. Williams be- Master Music Teacher of Year The thought of someone over the age teacher. She has held this post ever lieves that, if this can be accom- where there are schools, there are SCOTCH PLAINS – The New Jer- ceremony. of 25 trying to lug my 50-pound back- kids. When they purchased their since. plished, students would be ahead of pack a mile to school twice a day I Knew I Reached My Students the learning curve. sey Music Educators Association “I care for my students like they homes they knew that a school was (NJMEA) has named Vincent are my own children,” said Mr. makes me laugh. I know plenty of kids nearby. They could expect to have When: While doing her post-graduate My Goal As An Educator: “When who have back problems from trying work, Ms. Williams became familiar I retire or even before I retire, I Turturiello as the recipient of the Turturiello. “I hope my teaching goes cars from students, and the students 2004 Master Music Teacher Award. beyond the trophies and awards. I try to carry around overloaded backpacks themselves, near their homes. with a variety of teaching strategies would like to help new teachers com- day after day during school. My mom which appealed to visual learners, au- ing into the profession. That is why The award will be presented at the to teach my students to respect the I understand that there are cars NJMEA convention in February. hard work of their peers, to care for can tell you, older folks are especially parked bumper to bumper on some ditory learners and kinesthetic learn- I’m going for the supervisory cer- prone to this particular ailment. ers. When applying this knowledge to tificate,” she reported. Mr. Turturiello has been teaching each member of their band, to work streets, and in some cases block drive- in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood public hard and to be dedicated so that they The same principle can be applied ways. The police could ticket those mathematics instruction, she watched Home Life: Ms. Williams is the to riding a bike. I am sure nobody students’ faces light up when, unbe- mother of two sons, Stephen, 25, school district for 25 years. will not only become good who do not follow the law regarding During his tenure, he has musicians but good people wants me to lose my balance, and parking and help to avoid the prob- knownst to them, they grasped a higher and Peter, 23. Both children are pur- have my backpack pull me down into level of a mathematics concept. suing careers in education. served as the Fine Arts as well.” lems that could arise. A code should Supervisor, High School Several of Mr. some oncoming traffic. not be imposed upon students who In addition, I live near North Av- Wind Ensemble Director Turturiello’s students have could potentially hold permits; the and Jazz Band Director. entered the music profes- enue, where, recently, cars have hit laws are already in the books, they Magnet School Team Wins two people. It is becoming more and A New Jersey native, he sion in education and per- just need to be enforced. graduated Belleville High formance. more dangerous to be a pedestrian or Money generated from this could rider in the streets. Bridge-Building Contest School and received a David Heilman, a per- negate the need for permits. Addi- Bachelor of Arts degree cussionist who graduated Furthermore, driving to school has tionally, since the police seem pretty SCOTCH PLAINS—A team of competed successfully in the an- become somewhat of a necessity. We and Master of Arts degree in 1995, has played in the liberal about handing out tickets in bridge builders from Union County nual competition for the Magnet from New Jersey City Uni- orchestra for the Broad- all know how busy kids are today – town, why should they be so stingy Magnet High School in Scotch High the past three years. that is a topic for another time. But versity (NJCU) in Music Vincent Turturiello way musical, Swing. He is near the school? Plains captured the top prize in the “We’re very particular about how Education. He studied clarinet under currently a featured performer on the truth of the matter is mom doesn’t I am the first to say that I am biased, Advanced Division of the Annual we put it together,” noted Alex. “I want to bring us to all of our activi- David Dworkin of the Metropolitan Broadway in the musical, Stomp. I will admit it, I am a student and Bridge Building Competition this wouldn’t say we’ve patented it, but Opera Orchestra and saxophone un- Other students, Whitney Slaten and ties and after-school jobs for the rest therefore on the side of my brethren. year hosted by Union County Col- no one’s been able to copy the of her life. Plus, there are more and der Charlie “Leeds” Liebowitz. He Troy Simms, have been featured alto Plus, I want to be able to drive to school lege. design successfully yet!” credits much of his teaching success saxophonists with Clark Terry and more families where two parents when I get my license and become part The four Magnet High School The Magnet High School team work. Those kids need a car, if only to Nick Cerratto, the Wind Sym- Roland Henna. And, Ethan Nash, of the proud ranks of students who can students built a bridge from tongue has won First Place in the popular phony Director and Percussion Pro- Charlie Jackson, Brad Gillett, David to drag their little siblings between drive themselves to school. depressors and dowels that held a competition for the past four years Gumbert Field and Houlihan. fessor at NJCU. Hilton, Charles Dettmar, John But, I think all should consider the record 132.5 pounds, earning them — in the novice category three Known as “Mr. T” by his students, Brzozowski and Annmarie Calabrese Having a car means independence aforementioned points. I don’t have a the First Place finish in a competi- years ago, and in the advanced cat- and mobility, which is important to a he began his teaching career at Scotch are currently music educators. final solution to the problem; right tion that brings together more than egory for the past three years. Plains-Fanwood High School in Mr. Turturiello and his wife, Joyce, person when they live in an area now there isn’t one. Basically, there two dozens teams from 11 area Three of the team members, Alex, devoid of public transportation. 1978. At that time, the music have three daughters, Felicia, Gina needs to be some changes made in the high schools. Eric Whitman of Westfield, and program’s enrollment tallied 145 stu- and Kristen, who were all state ath- Please do not tell us to carpool. behavior of students, but also in how The team credits their continued JonKristoffer Bisda of Rahway, Not only are there are no HOV lanes dents. By 1987, the program grew to letes who played tennis at the college the town reacts to those who break the success to a special “I-beam” de- have been competing together since 530 pupils with a 280-member level. on the circle, but there is also a state laws. Instead of remaining static, there sign employed in each bridge build- they were freshmen; a new team law that says 17 year olds cannot marching band. As a band director, Mr. Turturiello needs to be some creative work done ing project. member, senior Adam Englemeier Currently, Mr. Turturiello directs believes that it is very easy to spend drive more than one person un-re- that will find a permanent solution to “It’s a special I-beam design of Berkeley Heights, joined the lated to them at one time. Therefore, the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High more time at school than with his the problem of the century — parking. we’ve come up with that strength- group this year. School (SPFHS) Wind Ensemble and family. He made it a priority, how- that generates more cars, but that ens the bridge and allows it to hold “We needed a pair of competent was not exactly within our control. Jazz Band; both groups have received ever, to be involved in all of his Georgetown University the weight,” explained Alex Clark, hands and an able mind,” Alex said numerous awards in national compe- daughters’ school activities. Last year, WHS students received a a senior from Fanwood who has of Adam, their new recruit. survey in homeroom asking about Welcomes MS Resident titions and state festivals. “My family is the reason I was The Seventh Annual Bridge The Wind Ensemble has received successful as a teacher and part of possible solutions to the parking prob- MOUNTAINSIDE – The Office of Building competition took place lem. I thought that any kids living Public Affairs at Georgetown Uni- gold ratings in the state concert band why I am receiving this prestigious Rui Lu Named Fellow November 20 in The Commons at festival and has represented the dis- award,” he noted. within a half mile of the school should versity in Washington, D.C. has re- Union County College’s Cranford not be eligible to drive, because that’s ported that Mountainside resident trict at the New Jersey State Gala Throughout his career, Mr. At John Hopkins Univ. campus. Teams from 11 high Concerts. At the Festival of Music, a Turturiello has integrated athletics only reasonable. Parking in their drive- Stephanie DeVos has been welcomed FANWOOD – Rui Lu, a Johns schools in Union County partici- way is probably closer than any park- into the Class of 2007. Stephanie, a national competition, the Wind En- and music to benefit SPFHS stu- Hopkins University sophomore pated at both the novice and ad- semble consistently earned superior dents. Many athletes have partici- ing spot they could possibly procure. 2003 graduate of The American from Fanwood, has been selected vanced level. I did not choose the option that School, Switzerland, has already ratings and won the Dr. William pated in his ensembles and continue as one of the university’s All teams are to build a Truss Revelli Award for “Most Outstand- to join the music program. He has would give driving privileges only to begun matriculating as a freshman in Woodrow Wilson Fellows, a bridge using only wooden tongue seniors. Juniors have the same re- the Walsh School of Foreign Ser- ing Concert Band” numerous times. coached tournament softball teams group of students who focus on depressors, wooden dowels, plas- The school’s jazz band, “The for 14 years and has taken his teams sponsibilities and obligations that vice. original research and scholarship tic wire ties, string and glue. The seniors do, except we have not yet Moonglowers,” has been competing to national tournaments in Florida while still in their undergraduate teams are given six weeks to design at the state and national level for 20 and Virginia. been accepted into college. So then www.goleader.com years. and build the structures, which vary again we probably do more stuff. years, is directed by Mr. Turturiello. As a music director, Mr. Rui will work with a faculty in length from 36 ¾-inches long in The group has qualified for the Turturiello’s groups have distin- mentor and receive research fund- the novice division to 57 ¾-inches NJIAJE state finals and has placed in guished themselves on a variety of ing to cover travel, equipment or long in the advanced category. the top five bands in the state for the levels. During his career, the march- Wardlaw-Hartridge Donates other related costs for four years. At the competition, the bridges past 10 years. In 2001, they were the ing band performed for the New York She will participate in a senior are supported between two tables NJIAJE state champions. At the Fes- Giants, New Jersey Generals, and the Gifts for Children in Need year seminar in which their origi- and weighed down with 1 ¼ pound tival of Music, the group has consis- New York Jets. The band was selected nal work will be analyzed as part free weights until they collapse. tently been selected as the “Out- as the “Best Marching Band” in the of a discussion of the major intel- EDISON — Members of Ellen Alex said the Magnet High team’s standing Jazz Band” at the award Annual New York Columbus Day Union County areas. lectual questions in her field. bridge held 132.5 pounds to win Colandrea and Debbie Kendall’s fifth Since September, the independent Parade and the ensemble performed Rui intends to focus her re- the competition … and the team of in the “Real People” variety show. grade classes at The Wardlaw- school’s three divisions of Lower search on “The Commercializa- Coppa Sworn in as Hartridge School in Edison collected seniors with a knack for engineer- Through his efforts, SPFHS was School, Middle School and Upper tion of China’s Education.” ing and design walked about with a Member of NJ Bar new toys and games donated for the School have run food drives, a used named a Grammy Signature School She is the daughter of Shuming First Place plaque and something WESTFIELD – Frank Coppa, a of the Arts. Recently, the Paper Mill Starfish Foundation in Plainfield. coat drive, a blood drive, and various Lu and attended Westfield High The gifts will be distributed to even more rewarding: “Bragging 1996 graduate of Westfield High Playhouse nominated the SPFHS Pit fundraisers for charities on the local, School. rights,” said Alex. children in need in the Middlesex/ state, and national level. School, was recently sworn in as a Orchestra for a Rising Star Award for member of the New Jersey Bar in a their rendition of Anything Goes. private ceremony officiated by the Additionally, The Moonglowers Honorable Robert Passero, won MacDonald’s Tri-State Jazz Assigment Judge of Passaic County. Championship. The group has also More Community News Mr. Coppa is a 2000 graduate of performed with the Brecker Broth- Rutgers College, where he majored ers at the Village Gate in Manhattan, in anthropology. While an under- the Showboat Casino in Atlantic City, Trip to Casinos Is Planned graduate at Rutgers College, Mr. and was a featured ensemble at the Coppa was a four-year competitor on Atlantic City Convention Hall. the Rutgers University Men’s Var- To Help Homeless Animals sity Swim Team and a Big East Acedemic All Star. Mr. Coppa gradu- Power Wheelchairs COUNTY — People for Animals serving New Jersey. Funds will be ated from Rutgers School of Law – Are Made Available will offer a two-day motor coach used to shelter, feed and provide Camden in 2003. tour to the Mohegan Sun and veterinary care for homeless cats and As a law student, Mr. Coppa was a To Seniors, Disabled Foxwoods casinos on Sunday and dogs. reciepient of the Reed Rotary Schol- COUNTY – The Senior Mobility Monday, February 15 and 16. Reser- To reserve a place on the tour, arship and the Law School Dean’s Program makes available to senior vations must be made by Monday, please call Progressive Travel at (908) Scholarship. He was the lead article citizens and the permanently dis- January 5. 688-8787. The cost is $159 per per- editor for the Journal of Law and abled power (electric) wheelchairs The tour will include escorted son for double hotel room occupancy Religion at the University. While in at no cost to the recipient, if they motor coach transportation from and $225 per person for single hotel law school, Mr. Coppa worked for qualify. Union, an overnight stay at the room occupancy. the Disciplinary Review Board in The power wheelchairs are pro- Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino, a In addition to motor coach trans- Trenton, the Union County vided to those who cannot walk and five-hour visit to the Foxwoods Ca- portation, the overnight hotel stay, Prosecuter’s Office and completed cannot self-propel a manual wheel- BRINGING JOY FOR OTHERS…Pamela Yulo of Piscataway, left, Rachel sino, two buffet meals and $30 in two buffet meals and the gaming an externship with the Philadelphia chair in their home, and who meet Cleaver of Cranford, Peter Minnium of Scotch Plains, and Tommy Haborak of gaming coupons. coupons, the price includes free park- Board of Education Office of Gen- additional guidelines of the program. Edison, right, check out the donations given by their classmates and the middle All proceeds from this trip will ing in Union, baggage handling at eral Council. Mr. Coppa is currently No deposit is required. To find out school students for the charity which the school supports in various ways benefit People for Animals, a non- the hotel, along with hotel tax plus serving as a clerk to the Honorable about eligibility criteria, please call throughout the year. profit animal welfare organization bellman and bus driver tips. Robert Passero. (800) 451-0971. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, December 25, 2003 Page 13 My Take on It With Kerrianne Spellman Cort A Stocking Full of Blessings On the Beat CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 To All This Christmas Day Spector at the time. While I am gener- ally not too thrilled with albums being Get Outta By KERRIANNE SPELLMAN CORT the smell of mom’s cooking and doctored after the fact, this version does Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times bursting into the living room to happen to flow nicely even with the ’Twas the night before Christ- find a gloriously decorated tree alterations and would have to be recom- The House mas and all through Iraq not a that is surrounded by more pre- mended as an addition to, not a replace- By CAROL F. DAVIS creature was stirring Not even sents that anyone could ever need. ment of a classic record. Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times a…Yak? It is hard to be a grownup. The The Audiophile label, Mobile Fi- FIRST NIGHT CELEBRATIONS: What else rhymes with Iraq? difficulty of just getting through delity, has just released a brilliant- Summit is fairly local, with two Snack, pack, shack, wack! Track, each day has a strange little way of sounding version of John Lennon’s separate venues: for the kids, the flack, back, smack! Forgive me. I just channeled Dr. Suess. It seems “Imagine” album. Besides the ter- Summit Middle School has events rific title track, other standout tracks scheduled from 3 to 6:30 p.m.; and fitting though, with the current include “Jealous Guy” “Oh Yoko” for the adults, there’s plenty going success of The Cat in the Hat. But back to Iraq. The military and the noted jab at McCartney on on from 7 p.m. through midnight. “How Do You Sleep.” There will be Garden State Fire- finally caught Saddam Hussein and Also just released from MOFI is works displays at 7 p.m. and again that is a very good thing. Obvi- ously, anyone with an ounce of “Good Morning Aztlan” from Los at midnight. (908) 522-1722. brains in their head must know Lobos. The sparkling remastering on STAR-STUDDED AFFAIR…Westfield resident and Maidenform Senior Vice this hybrid CD/SACD is amazing * * * * * that this situation is far from over. President of Design, Merchandising and Marketing, Manette Scheininger, had My heart still goes out to all our especially on headphones and like Admission to Morristown’s First the opportunity to rub elbows with celebrities during the opening night of Night is $12 a button, or $40 for a people who continue to fight for other Los Lobos albums, should be Wonderful Town on Broadway, which was sponsored by Maidenform. The freedom and justice overseas. listened to late at night to capture the premiere of the play was followed by a gala at the Mandarian Oriental Hotel in four-pack. There will be over 25 indoor shows to see, and fireworks Celebrating Christmas at a time whole atmosphere of this great the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle. Pictured, left to right, are: actor at midnight. The events range from like this seems rude, somehow. record. Gerald McRaney, actress Delta Burke, Maidenform President Maurice Reznik, Some of the simplest and sweetest Mrs. Scheininger, Joannie Reznik, Maidenform CEO Tom Ward, and Jeffrey puppets, dance, visual arts, and a However, celebrating is exactly relationships are blessings in dis- BBC Video America just released Scheininger, Manette’s husband. huge variety of musical perfor- what we all have to do. Focusing guise. the splendid British comedy, “The mances, to participatory craft mak- on the negative is never a good Office, the Complete First Season,” POPCORN™ ing and special shows for the young idea. This is a joyous time of year sucking the joy out of things. But on DVD. This brilliant series is a audience. (973) 538-2555. when we should all take a look at for whatever reason, we must per- must for fans of Monty Python or the good in our lives and thank severe. British humor in general. The disc The Last Samurai: * * * * * God, or whoever it is that you For our children, we must pre- also contains a great documentary. All events for First Night choose to believe in, for all of our tend that there is a Santa Claus. For Also from BBC Video comes “The Maplewood-South Orange will many blessings. our fellow Americans, we must Old Grey Whistle Test,” a terrific com- Barely Makes the Cut take place inside Columbia High I still have both my parents. say a prayer. For our friends and pilation of musical performances from One Popcorn, Poor • Two Popcorns, Fair • Three Popcorns, Good • Four Popcorns, Excellent School, 17 Parker Avenue, That is a gift. I have a wonderful family, we must put aside our petty such diverse performers as Bob Marley, Maplewood, beginning with a fire- sister and brilliant nephew. I have differences and acknowledge that Bonnie Raitt, U2 and The Police, By MICHAEL S. GOLDBERGER worn. The Civil War veteran and In- works display at 7 p.m. in Memo- cousins, aunts and uncles who we couldn’t live without them. 2 ½ popcorns rial Park. Highlights include Chi- among others. This DVD is a must- dian fighter extraordinaire, tormented laugh at my stupid jokes and beg Christmas is a time to embrace the In Post-Sushi America, we have been by his warring past, is here typically nese folk dancers, a comedian, me to do my horrible imperson- good. And there is a lot of good. have for any serious music fan. inundated by and duly immersed in representative of the Western soul out Jewish folksongs, a dance troupe From Grateful Dead Productions/ ation of Patsy Cline at the Christ- As I said earlier, I was feeling a things Japanese from cuisine to of touch with its inner self. and a storyteller. They, too, will mas dinner table. I have a quirky, bit blue this holiday season. But Monterey Video comes “New Year’s karaoke. We all but consider Hondas Therefore, the film’s unspoken ad- offer special shows for kids ear- stinky beagle who licks away my Eve, Gratfeul Dead, the closing of right now, there are three starlings assembled in Ohio as American built. vice to him, if he is to realize his true lier in the day. (973) 76-FIRST. tears. Honestly, I can’t think of outside my window eating the seed Winterland, December 31, 1978” Having tasted of the pomegranate, we karma, is “Go East Young Man.” * * * * * anything else that I need. Except that I left for them. My famous This excellent DVD captures the band are jaded, worldly. But he doesn’t know any of that at maybe a million dollars, but I don’t This is probably good for us. But it the outset. When first we meet the Montclair was the site of New spinach pies have been requested in peak form playing the venerable think Santa is that generous. for a holiday cocktail party later old Winterland Arena in San Fran- doesn’t bode so well for director Ed- decorated soldier, he is a hard-drink- Jersey’s original First Night cel- ward Zwick’s The Last Samurai, the ing, disconsolate sort who, in the em- For various reasons, I am not this week, and this morning, my cisco. The entire concert is included, ebration on December 31, 1988, feeling very passionate about this colorful, pocket-sized epic about a Civil ploy of Winchester, ekes out a tawdry and remains one of the best today. dog Jack made a new friend on his as well as band interviews and a War hero (Tom Cruise) enlisted by the living by regaling sideshow crowds current holiday season. And that’s walk. She was a Labrador mix that documentary of the history of This year’s opening ceremonies okay. Christmas brings up all sorts Emperor of Japan to train his troops. with his Wild West exploits and dem- begin at 7 p.m., and all events will was all black except for her feet. Winterland. You see, the dramatic culture clash onstrating his marksmanship. Then op- of emotions in people. They say Her feet were completely white Other great DVD releases to check be held at Montclair High School that suicide rates are at their high- expected when East meets West at the portunity knocks. on Park Street. Events include and she looked like someone out include “Paul Weller, Live at Bijou just ain’t what it used to be. The young emperor of Japan, deter- est during a holiday season and that dipped her paws in paint. Her name film, steel drums, jazz, ballet, in- is actually easy to understand. It’s Braehead,” featuring an electric set Granted, filmmaker Zwick does a rather mined to modernize his land, needs teractive family comedy, world was Maggie, and I think Jack fell from the former Jam lead singer, journeyman job of telling author John someone with a Western gift for war- terribly sad, but comprehendible. in love. Logan’s rousing tale. In fact, faint praise fare to train his army and lead them music, bluegrass, and, of course, The ghost of Christmas’s past King Crimson, Eyes Wide Open, fea- fireworks. (973) 509-4910. I have no room to complain. turing two separate concerts from though it may be, The Last Samurai has against those insurgents who would haunts all of us. Gone are the days I wish everyone on the planet a deny his people a progressive place in the Progressive Rock legends, one in fewer clichés than you’d expect from a * * * * * of waking up to a house filled with blessed and peaceful Christmas. yarn of this sort. the late 19th century. Celebrating the Arts is the theme Tokyo, 2003, and one from July 2000 Oh, they’re there all right ... just less Cynical, Algren loathes himself for in London. Both sets vary in song for Ridgewood’s First Night this of them. More surprising, the movie is taking on the lucrative assignment. He year. The celebration kicks off at 4 selection and the picture and sound chock full of non-mainstream, Yin and sees it as a continuation of the whole- quality is stellar. Yang-like meditations. Yet, there are sale slaying that has comprised his p.m. with a Children’s Program at Heaven’s Throne Hoists Audience Some other great DVD concert re- still times during the getting-to-know- misbegotten life. But, he’s about to get Benjamin Franklin Middle School, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 leases from Sanctuary include “Brian you sequences of this adventure film, a history lesson that just might alter his and concludes with a fireworks dis- with a magic mask, the lighting worked “Trust His Heart” was a moving piece. Wilson Presents Pet Sounds, Live in after Tom Cruise’s Captain Nathan outlook, as well as shape his raison play just after 7 p.m. The Evening more illusion, the clouds came alive, and She has an instrument reminiscent of a Algren is kidnapped by renegade leader d’etre. Program starts at 7:30 p.m. and it seemed like the very faith of the singers young Amy Grant, the Christian and London,” whereupon our Beach Boy features a variety of activities held hero revisits his classic album with a Katsumoto (Ken Watanabe) and hustled Here’s where the big paradox is in- starts to waft into the audience. It en- Pop artist, but with more clarity and up to his mountain hold for closer ob- troduced. On the one hand, Katsumoto, at various venues around town. gulfed us in its energy, force and enthusi- precision of tone. nine-piece band at London’s Royal servation, when you feel a more apt the Samurai leader, champions a war- Teens are invited to drop by the asm. Some might She blended well Festival Hall. Fans of Jam-based mu- title may have been The Samurai and I. rior system. The code of the Bushido United Methodist Church from 9 to liken the music in with the voice of Jo- sic should definitely check out Blues Thematically, the allusion to Deborah has supported the emperor for nearly a 11 p.m. to enjoy a special program. places to New Age. seph, Marc Perella, in Traveler, Live, Thinnest of Air, cap- Kerr and Yul Brynner’s illustrious dance thousand years. Thus he opposes the Buttons are $10. (201) 447-1739. The taped instrumen- their duet. When the turing the band live at Red Rocks across the stage in the Rodgers and young ruler’s desire to Westernize. tal music utilized a full celestial chorus Amphitheater in Colorado and 270 Hammerstein musical isn’t that much However, after capturing our Captain * * * * * spectrum from rhyth- backed them up, the Miles from Graceland, as well as of a stretch. Just add lots of swordplay. Algren, whom he views as a secret Additional celebrations will be held mic beat of timpani to goose bumps come out Bonnaroo 2003, featuring Ben Harper, Because here also, Oriental potentate weapon to be studied (as in know thine in Newark (973) 643-7502, the glissando of a harp. in flocks. Six hanging Sonic Youth, Nickel Creek and the wants to glean knowledge of West from enemy), Katsumoto confides that if the Manasquan (732) 223-3858, Red While the angels microphones were there to pick up the Flaming Lips, among others. educated representative of Occident, emperor wishes his death, he need only Bank (732) 741-0380, and Teaneck related the “Greatest etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. ask for it; the Samurai will gladly obey. Story Ever Told,” delicate balance of the Lastly, Eagle Vision Home Video (201) 287-9730. If you are willing to They bicker, they quibble, they each Adding to the conundrum, the “liv- travel farther, and perhaps stay over- Mary, Joseph and the choir that has only had has been cranking out something for learn a lesson in tolerance. Only, in this ing god” that rules Japan sees night, these other towns offer First stock figures of the eight rehearsals yet everyone this holiday season. What case, instead of falling in love with his Katsumoto as his teacher and friend. Night celebrations as well: Christmas scene en- manages to sound as better way to celebrate peace on Samurai beneficiary, Captain Algren And if this weren’t enough to cloud the Haddonfield (856) 429-4700, exten- tered, sometimes to precise as the Mormon earth by viewing War in the Desert, soon takes to exchanging meaningful issue, matters are further complicated sion no. 300; Ocean City (609) 525- sing or interact. There Tabernacle Choir. which features documentaries of The gazes with his new pal’s sister, Taka, by Mr. Omura, the Emperor’s minister. 9300; and Mount Holly (609) 267- was very little staged Herod, played by Gulf War, Six-Day War, and The played by Koyuki. It’s always the minister, isn’t it? drama, but the use of the stately Harold Also the resident opportunist, 9660. Some offer dinner packages moveable platforms Boyde, was a magnifi- Battle of El Alamein in 1942? Of course there’s more to it than that. and discounted accommodations. The American Civil War and The If you want to know the true nature of Omura, acted with instigative relish by worked nicely in cent force who looks Masato Harada, stirs the fires of con- Remember, you will need to transporting charac- like an Ethiopian ruler. Great Commanders of the Civil War a people, then you must understand Susan M. Dougherty for The Leader/The Times their contradictions...the differences be- tention. The middleman stands to make purchase a button in order to par- ters on and off stage. VIRGIN MOTHER...Dena Body language and feature excellent strategic break- tween their ideals and their realities. a fortune if Katsumoto and all those ticipate. They do sell out, and if Mary, played by DePasquale’s portrayal of the Vir- stage presence sug- downs for students of the Civil War. How they reconcile that discrepancy is who oppose a less spiritual and more you wait until night of, they may Dena DePasquale, gin Mary, pictured, above, was gest his royalty. And For the music fans be sure to check generally a window to their character. mercantile Japan are defeated. cost a few dollars more. was well cast in age said be as flawless as one that when he opened his out The Dark Side of the Moon, a It this upon this premise that Zwick Keeping a log, in his captivity Have a very happy New Year! and voice. Her soul- would be given by Christian/Pop mouth to sing, other terrific new documentary detailing builds his story. Hence, we are made Cruise’s combatant at first describes ful interpretation of singer Amy Grant. mouths in the audi- the evolution of the 1973 Pink Floyd privy to the paradoxes inherent to the his hosts as politely indifferent. But it ence opened in amaze- classic album, and Johnny Cash, A Samurai. isn’t long before he’s walking the walk ment at the power and majesty of his Concert Behind Prison Walls, a con- Unfortunately, while Cruise does a and talking the talk. This includes, in Mindowaskin Overlook Restoration vocal talent. Add all this to the professional sound cert film featuring cameos from Linda fairly nice job of etching Captain addition to becoming quite the swords- Algren, the persona itself is a bit shop- man himself, taking a seminar in Samu- system, and one might think he were Ronstadt and Roy Clark as well as rai philosophy. To be Discussed at Historical Lunch in a Broadway theater. That is except the recently departed Cash. Katsumoto is proud of his warrior WESTFIELD -- “Mindowaskin Directors of the Westfield Historical for the price of admission, which is heritage and attempts to instill the same Park and the Renovation of Its His- Society where she heads their com- free. in his worthy adversary. They have toric Overlook” will be the topic of mittee on Historic Preservation. She No one in this impressive produc- small, pungent conversations. And Nancy Priest and David Rogers at the has also served on the Architectural tion is paid. In today’s society that, in when the spring thaw arrives, the war- First Wednesday Luncheon at noon Review Board of Westfield. itself, is remarkable. It only attests to lord, in a bold move again underscor- on Wednesday, January 7 at B.G. Regular attendees of the luncheon the fact that this is a gift to the commu- ing the paradox of it all, rides to the big nity. city, right into the veritable den of his Fields Restaurant, 560 Springfield will be contacted by telephone to The next time it is advertised to opposition, and personally restores Avenue, Westfield. verify their reservations. Space per- appear in Scotch Plains or at the Cal- Captain Algren to his military employ- Ms Priest and Mr. Rogers will talk mitting, others may attendy by call- vary Tabernacle Church in Cranford, ers. of the history of the restoration of ing (908) 233-2930 by noon, Mon- open up the gift and enjoy the Christ- Upon his return, the protagonist re- Mindowaskin Park and the recent day, January 5. mas story of the love. alizes he has formed an opinion. He is completion of the renovation of the no longer ambivalent. Suddenly he has historic overlook to its original 1930’s a cause. You get to guess the rest. design. Action aficionados, who couldn’t As the engineer for the overlook care less about a character’s troubled restoration, David Rogers, working conscience, as well as out and out with the Spring Valley Monument violence lovers, who couldn’t give a Company, will tell of the many things, Yin about anyone’s Yang, will in any along with a few surprises, that helped case be gratified by the quantity of guide him in the five year restoration bloodshed purveyed by director Zwick. of the overlook. The excitement is continual if not Ms Priest is president of The always rip-roaring. This includes doz- Friends of Mindowaskin Park, a non- ens of impalements by spear, produc- profit organization dedicated to revi- tion line loss of life, and at least two talizing and preserving the park and honorable loppings-off of heads. Granted, it’s a mere pittance when com- sees that the historical significance pared to the decapitations depicted in of the park is maintained and pro- Sleepy Hollow (1999), but then one tected. The Friends are an indepen- must take their beheadings where one dent organization but work in coop- finds them, n’est pas? eration with the Town of Westfield, Viewers with, er, headier tastes, on the which is responsible for the infra- other hand, while likely to enjoy the structure of the park. travelogue beauty of the place in time Over the years, the Friends have depicted, as well as the attendant pag- raised over $500,000 for lighting, eantry, will doubtfully have their intel- benches, landscaping, memorial gar- lects stimulated to satisfaction. Then dens as well as the overlook project ROCKIN’ BALLET…Jefferson Elementary School students enjoyed a perfor- again, there is at least enough here to Nancy Priest believes strongly in the mance by the American Repertory Ballet entitled, “Dance Alive-Ballet Rocks.” pique their interest. It could spur them to preservation of Westfield history. She Benjamin Corbin for The Westfield Leader/Times Some traditional moves and dances were shown, while students also learned the JUST IN TIME...Westfield Fire Department FMBA Local 30 donated 131 boxes seek out John Logan’s novel. Which, is the Chairwoman of the Westfield of food to families in need for the holidays. Firemen from the Local 30 donated history of the movements. The dancers, who performed to a medley of Elvis paradoxically enough, would suggest that Presley songs, told the pupils about the importance of athleticism needed to Historic Preservation Commission as over $3,000 to purchase groceries, non-perishable goods and turkeys for the they should have read The Last Samurai well as a Trustee on the Board of boxes. The food drive was organized by Captain Rodger Sawicki. become a fine artist. in the first place and skipped the movie. Page 14 Thursday, December 25, 2003 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION HHeaveavenen’’ss ThrThroneone AAttendeesttendees HHoistedoisted AAtoptop AngelsAngels’’ WWingsings Cover of Chamber’s Directory Will By SUSAN M. DOUGHERTY Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times SCOTCH PLAINS — “Tonight…take a big, deep breath, Be Graced by Cho’s Graphite Sketch relax and enjoy the season that God By MARYLOU MORANO ored pencils and watercolors. She is a wonderful group of people,” has given you,” suggested Bobbie Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times has exhibited at Galeria Gallery she shared. “It is a joy to be around Olsen, musical director of “From WESTFIELD — Mixed media other people who have an interest Heaven’s Throne” as he spoke to artist Mary Cho has always loved in art.” the audience on opening night at to paint, and a recent, self-directed Another thing that gives Cho a the Evangel Church in Scotch career move now allows her to lot of joy is sharing her talent with Plains. The deep breath sure did devote more time to her art. the community. As a volunteer with feel good, and what followed was “I have been painting since I the WAA Senior Outreach pro- even better. was a child,” said Cho, who lives gram, she visits senior centers and Presented by congregants from in Westfield, in a recent interview community centers where she con- seven or eight churches in the area, with The Westfield Leader and The ducts classes once a week in water “The church without walls” is what Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times. “I colors, collage, sculpture and other it is named, but it is a little slice of was fortunate to have teachers who media. heaven. Well, actually, the show is encouraged and developed my ar- She is also a parent volunteer supposed to be set in heaven with tistic abilities.” for the Habitat Club at Franklin the cottontail fluffs of material, “Recently I stopped working full Elementary School, and a member ethereal lighting, and a fog ma- time so that I can spend more time of the Rake and Hoe Garden Club. chine that emits just enough mys- ticism for effect. working on my art,” she contin- Cho was recently commissioned Susan M. Dougherty for The Westfield Leader and The Times ued. by the Westfield Area Chamber of White-socked angels processed VOICES FROM HEAVEN…Mary, played by a talented Dena DePasquale, The mother of two moved with “Woman in a Floppy Hat,” pencil onto the multi-tiered stage; they duets with Marc Perella, while lead angel storyteller and creative director drawing, by Mary Cho, 11 x 14 Commerce to create a cover for her family, which includes hus- their member directory. It is Cho’s kept coming and coming —almost Dave Shirk, center, provides choral back up in “Trust His Heart.” band, Arthur, to Westfield from 100 of them in all. and the Westfield Art Association graphite pencil drawing of the Two Jumbotron screens on either else would one expect from a Clio West Windsor, 4 1/2 years ago. “There are comforters, angels, (WAA) Members Exhibit. Rialto Theatre which graces the side of the auditorium came alive Award-winning animator from a “The Westfield Art Association cover of the directory. all around us…through faith we will see the angels,” the director with scudding clouds, then scenes company called Quiet Man in New told us. And he is right. from old Bethlehem, and Jesus as a York City. When Kathi Olsen, a striking child on the hillside. Throughout the Emund Nalzaro, who portrayed Times Reporter Doles Out The Angel Gabriel, is a block- buster talent in voice and stage presence. His background is im- Trophies For Issues, Folks pressive, but no one’s bio is listed in the program. That is because Who Made This Year Unique this is a night that is not billed as a performance, but instead a gift to the community from the believers By FRED ROSSI the county parks. on the stage and behind the scenes Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times Most Unfairly Ignored Combat that have put together an amended December is typically the time Veteran of the Iraq War: cantata with additional songs, lyr- to sum up the events of the year. Shoshanna Johnson, the African- ics and narration to make it their We’ll leave the naming of the “Man American Army Specialist held as own. “Garden Path,” oil, by Mary Cho, of the Year” to Time magazine and a Prisoner of War after being cap- With a little digging, however, 16 x 20 the raking of the year’s top news tured in the same ambush as Army this reporter was able to interview stories to the Associated Press. Private Jessica Lynch. The latter the lead angel Gabriel, only to find Cho grew up in Nebraska, and Instead, here are a few other went on to gain celebrity, a televi- out that this singer had come to received a bachelor’s degree in trophies we’d like to hand out for sion movie and her own book, America 13 years ago from the painting and art history from 2003: while Johnson got none of those Philippines. He was in the travel- Barnard College, a Master of Arts Best Image of the Year: The rewards. ing Broadway production of Miss degree in English from Columbia toppling of the Saddam Hussein Best Free Advertising for the Saigon 10 years ago, and then took University, and a Master of Busi- statue in downtown Baghdad in Republican Party: Talk radio. Susan M. Dougherty for The Westfield Leader and The Times over the lead on Broadway in the ness Administration in Marketing April. Most Entertaining Presidential same show for three years at the from the University of Chicago. AMONG ANGELS…A crowd of angels surrounds Jesus as he is being sent to Second-Best Image of the Year: Candidate: The Reverend Al change the world in Torn Curtain Productions’ Heaven’s Throne. end of the 1990s. For 15 years she worked as an The Florida Marlins celebrating Sharpton. Nalzaro told The Westfield economist and in business devel- their World Championship at Yan- Presidential Candidate Who’s blonde angel sang, you thought night, the screens echoed the narra- Leader and The Scotch Plains- opment. About a year ago, Cho kee Stadium. Star Shined the Brightest and you were in heaven. She admon- tion and songs. Fanwood Times that he is now just downsized herself from her most Photo Op of the Year: President Briefest: General Wesley Clark. ished a dark-skinned, handsome Creative director Dave Shirk is not happy “singing for the Lord” in recent position as a business de- George W. Bush’s secret visit to Pulitzer Prize/Tabloid Cat- Jesus, “Go Change the World.” only the featured angel storyteller, this production. Such is the caliber veloper for a publisher, so as to be the troops in Iraq on Thanksgiving egory: The National Enquirer, The haunting refrain repeats in the but also the one who has put together of talent in the show. able to work from home. She now Day. whose exposé on Rush Limbaugh finale, and when it does, we know the outstanding video work. The ed- As the fog machine misted the stage works on business development Fashion Statement of the Year: reminded the talk radio king that we are the ones charged to do so. iting alone is masterful, but what Continued on Page 13 projects on a consulting basis. The light-colored combat boots he had a drug problem. Cho’s artistic media range from worn with business suits by Paul Double-Crossers of the Year: oils and graphite pencils to col- Bremer, Presidential Envoy to Iraq. The French government. Inexplicable Hollywood Rela- Parents of the Year: Kathy and In 2004, A&E will focus tionship That Has Lasted Longer Tom Hilton, the proud parents of Tour of Historic Homes Benefits heavily on the musically Than Anyone Expected: Demi Paris and Nicky. inclined in our area. Moore, 42, and Ashton Kutcher, Siblings of the Year: Qusay and Your input is welcome. 26. Uday Hussein. Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit E-mail [email protected] Unluckiest Creatures in Union Train Wreck Marriage of the County: The geese that inhabited Year: Liza Minnelli and David Gest. By MARYLOU MORANO over the tri-state area,” commented through the professional care and Issue of the Year (Westfield): Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times Katharine Hadow, the Arboretum’s preservation of a historic country SP-F High “Les Miserables,” Parking, be it downtown, the decks, Neither torrential downpours nor gale Director of Public Information. estate. Temple Emanu-El and Westfield force winds could dampen the spirits of Proceeds of the tour will support Reeves Reed Arboretum is located High School. those attending Thursday’s Fifteenth Reeves-Reed Arboretum, a subur- at 165 Hobart Avenue, Summit. For Reaches Homeless and Needy Issue of the Year (Scotch Annual House Tour to benefit Reeves- ban conservancy dedicated to envi- more information, log on to their Plains): The battle of the cam- Reed Arboretum in Summit. ronmental and horticultural educa- website at www.reeves- WESTFIELD – On December 16 In keeping with the theme of ‘Les paign brochures between the This year, five notable Summit tion, and to the enjoyment of nature reedarboretum.org at St. Helen’s Roman Catholic Church, Miserables,’ the students are not only Democrats and Republicans over homes in Tudor and Georgian de- the cast of this year’s Scotch Plains entertaining at St. Helen’s this holi- the true size of the municipal prop- signs were part of the tour. The homes Fanwood High School show, “Les day season but seeking opportuni- erty tax hike. presented the house “tourists” with a Miserables,” entertained area home- ties throughout the community to Issue of the Year (Fanwood): selection of English country living less and needy at a Christmas party. show support for the needy. Just how large the Chelsea As- charm, eclectic contemporary Euro- On New CD and DVD The event marked a commitment by Student performers Ryan Aspell sisted Living Facility will get. pean style and contemporary el- the cast to live up to the values com- and Corey Fineman have organized Best Public Relations for a egance. Most of the homes were the Releases Jingle Jangle mended in the great novel about “the the cast to support the “Yes, We Newly Released Movie: Having decorated for the upcoming holidays downtrodden” by engaging with the Care” soup kitchen. The soup kitchen the film’s star run for and then get in lights, Christmas trees, and gar- Beat By ANDY bums (RCA/BMG Heritage) featur- area’s needy and homeless. is housed in the Zion Lutheran elected as Governor of California lands. Many collections of personal GOLDENBERG ing informative liner notes as well as Christmas memorabilia and treasures Specially Written for The “Les Miserables”, to debut March Church in Clark, where a commu- (Arnold Schwarzenegger). Westfield Leader and The Times brilliant new remastered sound. 19, 2004, at the Scotch Plains- nity organization including Dr. Inheritor of the Donald Nixon- added to the uniqueness of each Universal Music has just released Fanwood High School, entertained Sanford Fineman of Scotch Plains Billy Carter-Roger Clinton Em- home. From Epic Records comes “Lost SACD surround-sound versions of millions in countries around the gathers donated food, prepares meals barrassing Presidential Brother One of the Tudor style homes in Dogs,” a double-disc set of rarities The Who’s “Tommy” as well as Elton world for more than a decade — and makes weekly distributions at Baton: Neil Bush. Summit boasted a miniature doll and unreleased tracks John’s “Goodbye Yel- closing in New York this past spring. the St. Joseph Social Service Center Best Coincidental Rhyming: house that had recently been re-pa- from Pearl Jam with low Brick Road.” Only a school version of the show in Elizabeth. The Chairmen of the Westfield pered and renovated in honor of the nary a bad track in the On DVD from Uni- with casting restricted to amateurs is On behalf of the Interfaith Coun- and Scotch Plains Planning Boards house tour. bunch, as well as a versal/Hip-O Records available now for performance. cil for the Homeless of Union County, – Jay Boyle and Joe Doyle. In addition to the private homes, concert DVD and CD comes a fantastic- At the St. Helen’s Church Christ- the cast will also conduct a canister Nicest Pat on the Back: Scotch tourists could also stop at Wisner from Rage Against the looking version of mas party, the “Les Miserables” cast drive. Cast members are individu- Plains being named as the most House, the Reeves Reed headquar- Machine. Pink Floyd’s “Live At featured songs from the show itself ally active in outreach programs. undervalued town in the country ters building. The 1889 Colonial “Live At the Olym- Pompeii, the as well as a carol sing-along with the “This is the first season that ‘Les by CBS MarketWatch. Revival mansion was decked out pic Auditorium” cap- Director’s Cut,” fea- St. Helen’s youth group and their Miserables’ has been available in in Victorian finery for the holi- tures the final concert turing gorgeous re- guests, 30 residents at Ozanum, a northern New Jersey,” said Ms. days. by this seminal L.A. mixed sound and bril- 90-bed homeless shelter in Edison. Wellman. “Our exceptional cast in- For your New Year’s Carter House, the 1740’s home of hard rock act and liant color. This semi St. Helen’s youth director, Patti cludes eight singers who are 2003 Eve entertainment, the Summit Historical Society was serves as a fitting tes- documentary/concert film captures Gardner, organized the event along all-state chorus members selected also a stop on the tour, its holiday tament to their ferocious live shows, the Floyd playing in an amphithe- with the show’s director Mr. Tom by the New Jersey State Music Edu- make your reserva- boutique selling handmade crafts, not to be missed for fans of the ater as well as recording “Dark Side Pedas of the Cranford schools; and cators Association, and nine are in tions now at the collectibles and holiday treats. guitar rock genre. of the Moon” in Ab- producer Laurie Wellman, choral the prestigious All-Eastern Honor Northside Trattoria. Those who wished to lunch could Sony Music brings bey Road Studios. director of the Scotch Plains Fanwood Choir to perform in Boston on Feb- do so at the Beacon Hill Club in us some holiday cheer Also just out from Uni- school music department. ruary 14.” Call Chris or Tim at Summit. from Bruce versal/Geffen Home St. Helen’s has a tradition of send- “Les Miserables” will open at 8 (908) 232-7320. “It’s so exciting to see how the Springsteen as “The Video is a double DVD ing students from their youth group p.m. on Friday, March 19, at the House Tour draws people from all Essential Bruce disc set of Guns & Roses to Ozanum for weekly sessions to Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Springsteen” contains “Use Your Illusion Live entertain and play with children there. on Westfield Road in Scotch Plains. almost all of his radio in Japan,” capturing this This enables mothers to run errands, The play will run for five perfor- hits such as “Born to great heavy metal outfit attend job interviews or otherwise mances. The subsequent dates are Run” “Thunder Road” at the peak of their pow- seek to achieve a settled life. Saturday, March 20 (evening), Sun- and “Darkness On the ers live in the Tokyo “French Author Victor Hugo in his day, March 21 (matinee) and the Edge of Town,” as well Dome. monumental novel 150 years ago following Friday and Saturday, as third disc of rarities Finally from Univer- dramatized needs that haven’t gone March 26-27 (evenings). including, “Trapped,” the live ver- sal comes the classic Jimi Hendrix away,” said show director Tom Pedas. The box office opens for ticket sion of the Jimmy Cliff classic, as film, Jimi Plays Berkeley. Recorded “Our students are recognizing this orders on February 1, 2004. Please well as (I kid you not) Bruce’s take in May of 1970, this not only on stage but in real-life call (908) 889 7755 for tickets and on “Viva Las Vegas.” feature captures fiery engagements with the less fortunate.” information. Also from Sony versions of the clas- comes another live sic, “Machine Gun” DVD, “Bruce and “Hey Joe.” Springsteen & The E From Apple Music/ Calderone School of Music Street Band, Live in Capitol Records Barcelona,” featuring comes the badly- a nice mix of classic THE PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL titled, controversial tunes as well as some yet enjoyable none- Established 1975 Certified Teachers of the better songs theless, “Beatles, Let from “The Rising” al- It Be… Naked.” This Private Instruction on bum. The DVD also is the version that All Instruments, Voice and Ensembles features a terrific tour Paul McCartney always wanted the documentary. public to hear, devoid of the sappy Kindermusik classes for ages 2 to 7 ON STAGE…The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School March 19 production of Other notable CD releases include Riverwalk Plaza “Les Miserables” will feature a street urchin to be played alternately by local string sections layered on by Phil 34 Ridgedale Avenue • East Hanover 256 Morris Avenue • Springfield elementary schoolers including Daniel Pesin and Vangelis Dimopoulos. Pic- the first four Jefferson Airplane al- (973) 428-0405 281 Main Street(973) 467-4688• Millburn Continued on Page 13 (973) 467 4688 tured above, from the left, are: Daniel Pesin and other cast members of the play.