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Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890 (908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, March 24, 2011 OUR 121st YEAR – ISSUE NO. 12-2011 Periodical – Postage Paid at Rahway, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] SEVENTY FIVE CENTS Westfield BOE Severs Ties With Disko Assoc.; MS Retains Firm By LAUREN S. BARR Mr. Disko was charged by the At- on file with the Scotch Plains- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader torney General’s office for allegedly Fanwood BOE, M. Disko Associates WESTFIELD — Following submitting fraudulent quotes and es- is owned by Michael D. Disko and charges levied against Westfield timates to school districts including the business certificate is valid, ac- Board of Education (BOE) Business Westfield and Scotch Plains- cording to the state website. The Administrator Robert Berman and Fanwood, and recommending ap- Leader was unable to find proof of an engineer/Architect of Record Ken proval of the fraudulently bid con- engineering license for Ken Disko. Disko related to bid rigging, the tracts in exchange for more than According to the state Department of Westfield BOE has served M. Disko $80,000 in kickbacks from contrac- Community Affairs online registry, Associates with legal notice to sever tors. engineering and professional plan- all contracts with the firm. When contacted by The Westfield ner licenses are valid for the senior The Westfield district has also sev- Leader last week, a person who an- Michael D. Disko and his son, ered ties with Metropolitan Metal swered the phone at M. Disko and Michael D. Disko, Jr. Window Company of Fanwood, Associates stated Ken Disko, “no According to Scotch Plains- whose co-owner, John Sangiuliano, longer works here.” Fanwood Business Administrator An- also faces charges in the scheme that According to the State of New Jer- thony Del Sordi, the BOE does not allegedly dates back 10 years. sey Business Registration Certificate currently have any contracts with M. Disko Associates and has no current plans to hire a forensic accountant to examine any previous contracts. He also told The Leader that, “I would think that they [SPF BOE] would wait until the outcome of the trial to deter- mine what, if any, future work will be Photo courtesy of Nick and Lisa Karter given to M. Disko Associates.” SUPER MOON…Taken from the cliff in Summit on Sunday, the moon hovers over Port Newark. From NASA: On March The firm was retained by the Scotch 19, the full moon was of rare size and beauty when it rose in the east at sunset. It was a super “perigee moon”— the biggest Plains-Fanwood BOE on three occa- in almost 20 years. “The last full moon so big and close to earth occurred in March of 1993,” says Geoff Chester of the US sions since 2006 for athletic field Naval Observatory in Washington, DC. Full moons vary in size because of the oval shape of the moon’s orbit. It is an ellipse work. According to Mr. Del Sordi, with one side (perigee) about 30,000 miles closer to Earth than the other (apogee). Nearby perigee moons are about 14 percent the first project was for field renova- bigger and 30 percent brighter than lesser moons that occur on the apogee side of the moon’s orbit. tions with a fee of approximately $18,000; the second project was the installation of two turf fields and reno- WF Council Expected to Debut vation to the running track with a fee of $166,855; and the final project was for additional drainage work on the baseball field with no charge for $39.5 Mil Budget Next Week the design or oversight of the project. By LAUREN S. BARR The Westfield Board of Education was Specially Written for The Westfield Leader through retirements, 10 full-time po- and labor matters. Horace R. Corbin for The Westfield Leader unable to provide information regarding sitions and one part-time position; Despite all of the savings on oper- WESTFIELD – At Tuesday night’s additionally, one full-time position is ating costs and salaries, the town’s TOP HONORS...Richard Bagger of Westfield, chief of staff for Governor Chris how much has been paid to M. Disko Westfield Town Council conference Christie, was awarded the “GOP Man of theYear Award” at a Republican Party Associates over the past 10 years without being converted to two part-time po- revenue is down $859,880 from 2010, fundraiser held March 21 at Echo Lake Country Club in Westfield. Pictured, an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) meeting, the Finance Policy Com- sitions. which is causing the total budget in- from left to right, are: Mr. Bagger, Assemblyman Jon Bramnick( R-21, Westfield) request, one has been filed by The Leader. mittee unveiled the proposed All of the town department bud- crease. and Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean, Jr. (R-21, Westfield). M. Disko Associates is currently $39,513,027 2011 municipal budget. gets are less than 2010, with the ex- The towns were restricted this year employed by Union County for engi- The budget will be formally intro- ception of the fire department, which to a 2-percent cap on tax levies. How- County Unveils Budget; Tax neering services pertaining to the duced at next week’s public meeting is seeing a nearly $4,000 increase for ever, officials said several “statutory” Westbrook flood control project, a and will likely see final adoption at uniform costs, and the town’s legal items fall outside the cap and have project totaling over $400,000 in the Tuesday, April 26, meeting. If department, which is seeing a $10,300 increased 5.25 percent over last year. Levy to Jump 6 Percent county funds dating back to 2001. passed in its current form, the budget increase due to property-tax appeals CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 The firm of M. Disko Associates; and will mean an increase of $128 on the By PAUL J. PEYTON letter. average assessed home valued at Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Although tax amounts per towns before that the firm Disko-Lehr As- sociates; have been used by many $184,000. ELIZABETH — Union County have not yet been released, accord- With Finance Committee Chair- WF BOE Outlines Budget, Manager George Devanney released ing to figures available on the state towns, including Westfield, Cranford and Mountainside over the past 40 man Mark Ciarrocca away, the bud- his proposed executive budget total- Department of Community Affairs get was introduced by Councilman ing $484 million last week, an in- website, in 2010, $28.2 million in years for engineering services, drain- Enrollment Projections age and flood issues. Michael D. Sam Della Fera, who said it was crease of $4.3 million over what was county taxes were collected in By KIMBERLY A. BROADWELL In the presentation made Tuesday Disko, Jr. is currently the borough “another challenging year” as the Specially Written for The Westfield Leader spent in 2010. A total of $293.8 Westfield, $15.3 million in Scotch committee had to meet the state’s 2- evening, as well as last week, it was million would be raised in taxes, an Plains, $4.5 million in Fanwood, $2.6 engineer for Mountainside. The Mountainside Borough dis- percent cap requirement. He ex- WESTFIELD – Members of the noted that the total budget would in- increase of $16.4 million or 6 per- million in Garwood, $6.9 million in Westfield Board of Education, as well crease 1.3 percent over last year, which cussed the issue last week in execu- plained to the council that revenues cent over last year. Mountainside, $15.5 million in are down due to property-tax appeals as candidates running in the upcom- would equate to a hike of $1,169,091. The state instituted a 2-percent Cranford, and $26.7 million in Sum- tive session to decide if any action was necessary. and that the total ratables in the town ing board of education election, made Officials said that the tax levy falls cap last year on tax levies, although mit. Other Union County towns were many comments regarding the 2011- within the state’s new 2-percent cap “Mike Disko, Sr. and Disko Asso- are, “now less than they were in 2009.” some areas are exempt. The county as follows: Berkeley Heights, $12.8 The town’s operating budget is 2012 budget at Tuesday evening’s on tax levies. According to the report, included increases in health care million; Clark, $9.8 million; Eliza- ciates provided distinguished service as Mountainside’s borough engineer down $240,298 over last year and school board meeting. homeowners would see a $171 tax costs, $5,062,130; pensions, beth, $31.6 million; Hillside, $8.2 Vincent Yaniro, interim business increase on an average assessed home for many years. When Mike, Sr. re- salaries have decreased by $284,377. $4,944,677; debt service and capital million; Kenilworth, $6.8 million; The town has eliminated, largely administrator for the board, and Mar- of $184,000 as part of the proposed lease increases, $2,654,529 as being Linden, $22.6 million; New Provi- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 garet Dolan, superintendent of schools, $85.9-million school tax levy. outside the cap. The 2 percent in- dence, $9.6 million; Plainfield, $12.6 gave an overview of the budget, as As previously reported, residents crease, per the cap, added $5,544,623 million; Rahway, $13.6 million; MS BOE Details Bussing well as next year’s enrollment projec- would vote on a tax levy of $83.4 to the tax levy over 2010. The county, Roselle, $6.7 million; Roselle Park, tions. Mr. Yaniro is being paid a per million for the 2011-2012 operating which has over a half-million dol- $4.7 million; Springfield, $11.2 mil- diem rate of $650 per day as ap- budget, an increase of $3.2 million lars in outstanding debt, is projected lion; Union, $27.7 million; and And ‘Pay to Play’ Option proved by the acting Union County over last year. to have a debt service payment in Winfield, $61,154. By DOMINIC A. LAGANO fundamental of economics, supply and executive superintendent. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 2011 of $44.9 million. County open space tax collections Specially Written for The Westfield Leader demand. If transportation’s free, de- “The county’s tax bill [for 2011] were also collected. In 2010 local MOUNTAINSIDE — The Board mand is infinite. Anyone who wants a is about $1,700, which represents an collections totaled: Westfield, $1.2 of Education (BOE) provided specific ride will take a ride for free; when increase of $108 this year,” Mr. million; Summit, $1.1 million; figures for proposed bussing and ac- there’s price attached to it, people Devanney said in his budget cover CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 tivity charges at its third budget pre- have to make some different deci- sentation Tuesday evening, with pre- sions,” Mr. Saragnese said. sentations from Acting Business Ad- Mr. Saragnese also provided spe- ministrator Daniel Saragnese and cific figures for the cost of the so- Chief School Administrator Jeanette called “pay to play” option for co- Baubles. curricular activities, namely clubs and The option for a subscription bus sports. service for children living less than In the performing arts category, in- two miles from their school was an- cluding band, jazz band, chorus, swing nounced. Mr. Saragnese said the esti- players and the school play, the pro- mated cost of the service is $540 per posed fee imposed would be $85 per student. He provided figures for other student per activity. towns in the area for comparison. The In the clubs category, including Art Union school district will be charging Enrichment, and the Chess, Ecology, $2,200 per student, Cranford, $884; and Technology Clubs, the proposed Springfield, $750; Westfield, $426, fee imposed would be $40 per student and Scotch Plains-Fanwood, $360 per per activity. Horace R. Corbin for The Westfield Leader student. Students who participate in the REELECTION BID...Westfield Mayor Andy Skibitsky introduces town council Mr. Saragnese stated that the bus school yearbook next year are facing a members who are posing for reelection at a Republican Party fundraiser held at subscription service was only an esti- fee of $200 per student. Echo Lake Country Club in Westfield on March 21. Pictured, left to right, are: mate and would fluctuate, as he could For those students participating in Councilman Jim Foerst, Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (R-21, Westfield), Council- man Mark Ciarrocca, Councilwoman Jo Ann Neylan, Councilman Frank Arena not predict how many students would sports, including baseball, basketball, and Mayor Skibitsky. participate in the program next year. soccer and softball, the proposed fee The number of participants would af- would be $425 per student, per sport. PAGE INDEX Police Blotter...6 Greg Ryan for The Westfield Leader ENDLESS WINTER...Residents were greeted by an early morning storm that fect the number of bus routes and the Several members of the public Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 12-17 covered the area with a dusting of snow on March 21, the first full day of spring. “When you move from courtesy bus- voiced their concerns regarding the Editorial ...... 4-5, 17 Education ...... 9, 18 Classifieds .... 16 sing to subscription bussing — it’s a CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Community ... 6-8 Sports ...... 11-16 A&E ...... 19-20
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Horace R. Corbin for The Westfield Leader EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY…On March 14, gentlemen gathered at the Kenilworth VFW for a sampling of fine wines, French gourmet cuisine and merriment at the Cranford Chapter of Les Marmitons’ monthly soirée, where a “bon moment” was had by all. See story on page 20. GW BOE Key Topics: County Unveils Budget Westfield Council CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Athletic Field and Budget CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Scotch Plains, $624,722; ficers, the same number as last year. By MANDY L. RUSSELL “By this time next month, I hope to The increases include: the town’s debt fence line at the department of public Mountainside, $282,427; Fanwood, Mr. Devanney said state-funding Specially Written for The Westfield Leader have some final answers to be able to service payment, which is up $67,235; works building on North Avenue. He $183,965; Garwood, $106,349; cuts at Runnells has “created a $7.5- GARWOOD – Pleas for the new ath- move forward on this, but I need a tight public employee pension payment, also said that the paver stones along the Cranford, $637,881; Clark, million revenue gap.” In addition, he letic field project’s completion continued packaged plan first,” said Mayor up $209,139; firefighter pension pay- side of the World War I monument are $398,756; and Berkeley Heights, said, the “national decline in the real at Tuesday night’s Garwood Borough Quattrocchi. ment, up $334,778; health insurance falling apart and have become a “pub- $522,495. estate market” caused the county’s Council meeting, with reoccurring faces The mayor wants all the components is up $273,000 and the Rahway Valley lic safety” issue for pedestrians. representing their cause. of the project broken down into price Sewerage Authority payment has in- Francis Terrace resident Peter To offset taxes, the county is pro- revenues to drop from $12 million in Garwood resident Richard King opened categories to see what each piece will posing to use $18 million in surplus 2005 to the current $6 million; while the athletic field discussion with a state- cost. She hopes to have these costs bro- creased by $130,151. Funding for the Laskaris said that he is gathering infor- funds, $6.3 million less than was the county ratable base dropped from ment he composed to Mayor Patricia ken down coming out of the April 11 library, which is set on a calculated mation regarding the pedestrian acti- utilized last year. Other revenue $78 to $71 billion. Quattrocchi and members of the council. meeting. state statute, is down $90,277, and the vated light on Central Avenue near sources include: $3.7 million in rev- In addition, he said mandated “In the early 70’s, I got into the Mayor Quattrocchi explained that the town’s joint insurance fund cost is down Clover Street, and that 13 of the 14 enues from the county clerk’s office, costs, such as salaries, pensions and Garwood baseball program. I remember meeting would be limited to the architect, $22,915 over last year. people he has spoken to have “issues” a jump of $440,000 over last year; health insurance, have increased $18 back then the Yankees offering to pur- the council and herself, but that she hopes Last year, the town saw a dramatic with the light. He said that, “right now, $25 million in state and federal million. chase new lights for our town baseball the numbers can eventually be brought to decrease in state aid and offset the its not perfect.” grants, down $12.5 million; $5.5 According to a breakdown of de- field, and our mayor at the time declined,” the public in some form. She also said budget by use of saved money from Mayor Skibitsky said that the light is Mr. King said. that a meeting open to the public would the sale of the town property account. for the “greater good of the commu- million from parks and recreation, partment operating budgets, the He further stated that Garwood was eventually happen if plans continue to up $200,000; $1.6 million for rental county will spend $3.1 million in sitting on a grant for $1.7 million to invest move forward. The town also negotiated zero per- nity.” He said that according to the of beds to other counties at the golf operations, $16.9 million in the in the revamp of the athletic fields. Mr. In other news, Councilman James cent increases on both the firefighters’ report produced by the county’s engi- county’s juvenile detention center, sheriff’s office, $7.7 million for the King explained that he had family in the Mathieu reported that the budget was and public works employees’ con- neering firm, The Louis Berger Group, approximately $400,000 over what county police department, and $20.5 baseball program and was pulling for decreased to below $7 million and that tracts, which increase 2.5 percent and it is safer for children to cross away was collected in 2010; and $3 mil- million in the county prosecutor’s them and all the other children who would spending was decreased from $208,000 2 percent this year, respectively. All from the intersection so that there are lion in realty transfer fees from the office. The county also projects to benefit from this project, including per- to $151,000. Officials were able to keep non-union employees currently are less points of conflict. county clerk’s office. Revenue from spend $14.4 million to manage its haps family members of the governing the tax increase on the low end at 2.9 in a salary freeze, and the town also When asked by Mr. Laskaris why a Runnells Specialized Hospital is facilities. body. percent. instituted a hiring freeze last June. regular traffic light was not installed at The mayor informed the public that a “I challenged my colleagues to find a Town Administrator James Gildea the intersection of Clover and Central, expected at $37.6 million, similar to During the first of four budget meeting with the council and the archi- decrease of $45,000,” Councilman the amount collected last year. hearings with department heads con- tect was set for Monday, April 11. Mathieu said. said that, “things we did last year Mr. Gildea responded that a warrant The county also lists $2 million in ducted by the freeholder’s fiscal af- made a big difference this year.” He analysis was conducted in 2002 that revenue in 2011 as part of a 22-year fairs committee, County Clerk added that the budget process “never indicated a light was not needed. The lease extension with Covanta En- Joanne Rajoppi said elimination of a really ends.” light that currently is installed is only ergy, operator of the county incin- separate Presidential Primary Elec- Westfield BOE Mayor Andy Skibitsky said that the activated by a pedestrian and is located erator in Rahway. tion, currently scheduled for Febru- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 “employees have really stepped up and mid-block. “Despite the continuing debate in ary, in addition to the regular June helped us.” Third Ward Councilman Dave Haas Trenton, a complete ‘toolkit’ has yet Primary would save the county Officials also was noted that health would not be reimbursed for tuition or The proposed budget is available at raised questions regarding whether a to be realized. Unfortunately, while $360,000. care costs were reduced $1 million for conferences that were required of westfieldnj.gov and the town is asking different type of warrant analysis would the state’s fiscal year proposed 2012 Her election division budget is from last year through negotiations on them like it had been done in the past. for residents to e-mail have led to a traffic light at the corner. budget was able to keep municipal proposed at $1.1 million in addition existing employee contracts, as well as Also, teachers were now required to [email protected] with any ques- When Councilman Haas said that he aid stable, and provides a modest to the $2 million clerk’s office bud- a $65,000 savings from energy conser- perform additional duties as part of tions or suggestions. was not sure that the current location is increase for school funding, Union get. The state added the additional vation. Additionally, there was a re- their normal workday, thus eliminating During the public comment portion the “safest,” Mayor Skibitsky said that County suffered unforeseen state election date in 2008 in an effort to ported savings of $100,000 in transpor- some stipends and/or additional staff. of the meeting, West Dudley Avenue while he believed Councilman Haas cuts, which have negatively impacted give New Jersey more of a say in the tation costs because of some special- Many members of the board, as well resident Ross Katz complained to the has read the reports, “you don’t like Runnells Specialized Hospital and selection of the major political par- education students coming back into as candidates for the board, asked Mrs. council regarding garbage along the what it says.” our corrections department,” Mr. ties’ nominees for president. Legis- the district and another $100,000 sav- Walker if the teachers had been asked Devanney said in his letter. lation is currently under consider- ings from a less costly computerized to give back from their contractual Runnells’ projected revenue for ation to move the election to the communication system. increase in salary, to which Mrs. Walker 2011 is $37,650,000. The hospital’s June Primary date to avoid addi- There was much discussion concern- replied “no.” The Westfield Education Mountainside BOE ing a report made last week regarding a Association (WEA) received a 12.2 operating budget this year is tional costs of a separate election. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 $38,376,141. $210,000 giveback from teachers re- percent (3.9 percent per year) over three cost of participating in these activi- ported by Board President Julia Walker. years as per a new contract ratified by superintendent of schools, Joseph The county manager said revenues ties. An example proposed consist- Passiment, for approval. The budget for state prisoners at the county jail Last week, she had noted that the the board and WEA in March of 2010. ing of three students in one family givebacks would enable the district to In the enrollment report given pri- vote will be held on Wednesday, April have declined from $4 million in Disko requiring bussing, playing several 27, at which time residents can also CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 bring back some teachers in the pri- marily by Superintendent Dolan, it was 2009 to $3 million this year. Last sports, and participating in several cast their vote for their choice of five Thursday, the county approved a tired, we were pleased to appoint mary grades and counseling at the noted that potential “hot spots,” or clubs would cost the family thou- middle-school level. She had noted classes with the potential to have close BOE candidates vying for two open contract with a Florida company to Mike, Jr., who has continued his sands of dollars. seats. conduct an analysis of the county father’s distinguished service. We that the positions would most likely to 25 students, included ninth, fifth, Mrs. Baubles said, “When you look bring the district two teachers in the fourth, sixth and second grades. She Polls will be open from 2 until 9 jail population, encompassing the have been assured that neither Mike, at enrollment projections for next year, p.m. at Deerfield School, the Com- courts, parole and probation divi- Sr. nor Mike, Jr. were involved in the primary grades and one counseling further noted that the projected kinder- perhaps if we were to rework this, position in the middle schools. garten rate was lower, which she added munity Presbyterian Church and Bor- sions, in an effort to reduce the popu- actions that resulted in Ken Disko’s which I’m not suggesting we do at this ough Hall. lation by 10 percent to save money. indictment, and so Mountainside’s Mrs. Walker explained that the “was not surprising when you look at late date, if you put all that back in (the $210,000 had been negotiated with the birth rate for this particular year, as The next BOE meeting is sched- The proposed corrections budget is relationship with Mike, Sr. and Mike, funds for co-curricular activities) we’d uled for Wednesday, April 6, at 6:30 $44.3 million, $2.5 million over last Jr. will not be affected by that indict- teachers last fall and noted that this well as the next year’s incoming kin- have class sizes of 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 — came from an understanding that as dergarten.” p.m. at Beechwood School. The pub- year. The budget includes $6.1 mil- ment,” Mountainside Mayor Al it gets very difficult and when you lic will have the opportunity to meet lion in overtime for corrections of- Mirabelli said. part of the teachers’ contract teachers There also was a lot of dialogue spread it around, you spread it around concerning a capital improvement por- the BOE candidates at this meeting. in a way where you’re no longer meet- For more information on the pro- tion to the budget and the need to put ing expenditures.” funding into it. posed budget, including a video pre- The BOE will present its final bud- sentation of the figures, go to Board of Education candidate Jenni- get to the Union County executive fer Silva stated, “I am concerned that mountainsideschools.org. there is no money in the capital reserve account when we have roofs leaking and boilers in the schools that are past their prime. I have a major concern for the children’s safety and for our fi- nances.” Board member Ann Cary, who is running for re-election, stated, “I don’t want the public to confuse a capital reserve fund for big renovation projects with funding for maintenance repairs in our schools.” She noted that leaky roofs and general repairs were all in- cluded in the budget under mainte- nance. Board candidate Keith Hertell stated, “The $210,000 that the teachers gave back…some would agree that this is not really a giveback. This might take care of this year, but what about the following year? I have a concern about one-time givebacks.” Board member Ginny Leiz re- sponded, “We don’t generally do one- time funding, but it seems appropriate for now. Seeing that the birth rate dropped for kindergarten and first grade, maybe we will pick up new positions there. The point is well taken.” The next board of education meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 29, at 8 p.m. in the Westfield High School caf- eteria, where the board will adopt a final budget. A board of education candidate fo- rum, sponsored by the Parent-Teacher
Council, will be held on Wednesday, Photo courtesy of Bob Cozzolina April 13, at 7:30 p.m. in the Westfield WORLD TRAVELER...Robert Cozzolina caught up with the local news by High School cafeteria. reading The Westfield Leader while in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Serving the community since 1959
USPS 485200 Thursday, March 24, 2011 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 OUR 52nd YEAR – ISSUE NO. 12-2011 Periodical – Postage Paid at Rahway, N.J. www.timesnj.com [email protected] SEVENTY FIVE CENTS Del Sordi Says SPF District Has No Dealings Currently With Disko By KIMBERLY A. BROADWELL administrator by the Westfield Board “We do follow the laws for the Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times of Education, was charged with ac- bidding process and we select the SCOTCH PLAINS – During the cepting $13,000 worth of free win- lowest one. If people are acting in Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of dows installed at his home in return collusion, it makes it much harder to Education meeting held last Thurs- for awarding a local bid to the Met- prevent,” Mr. Whitehouse stated. day evening, board of education can- ropolitan Metal Windows Company, After the meeting, Scotch Plains- didate Michael Lewis of Fanwood a Fanwood-based company whose Fanwood Business Administrator asked board members about their co-owner, John Sangiuliano, of Anthony Del Sordi told The Scotch views on the alleged local bid-rig- Scotch Plains, was among those Plains-Fanwood Times that at this ging scandal unveiled by the attorney charged in the scheme. time, the Scotch Plains-Fanwood general’s office involving Ken Disko In response, board member Betty school district has no current busi- of the Mountainside engineering firm Anne Woerner said the auditors for ness with Mr. Disko, his firm, or the M. Disko Associates, the engineer of the district were outside auditors Metropolitan Metal Window Com- record for the school district. who had professional service con- pany. Mr. Lewis asked what the Scotch tracts and did “report directly to the In other business, Scotch Plains- Plains-Fanwood school district could board.” She also noted, along with Fanwood Social Studies Supervisor do to avoid the problems Westfield is Board President Trip Whitehouse, Brad Siegel gave a presentation on facing. He noted that Robert Berman, that it was a good idea to change the district’s new global education who has been suspended as business auditors on a regular basis. curriculum. In his presentation, it was noted that this new education approach was made to “give every student, regardless of age, ability and background, a global experi- ence.” The new curriculum will in- Susan M. Dougherty for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times corporate world languages, global PERSONALITY PLUS…TV show host Corny Collins (Matt Zawodniak) proudly presents his “Nicest Kids in Town” during an energetic performance of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Repertory Theatre’s Hairspray, which ran literature and technology. It was re- through last weekend. See the full story on page 20. ported that the new program would bring “global media” to the students and allow them to communicate with other students in other parts of the County Unveils $484 Mil. Budget; world. Mr. Siegel, along with his com- mittee of students, parents, teach- ers, board of education members and Property Tax Levy Up 6 Percent administration personnel, have al- By PAUL J. PEYTON “The county’s tax bill [for 2011] is $440,000 over last year; $25 million ready put in place some of their Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times about $1,700, which represents an in state and federal grants, down $12.5 goals from their 2011-2014 Global ELIZABETH — Union County increase of $108 this year,” Mr. million; $5.5 million from parks and Action Plan. Among these are mock Manager George Devanney released Devanney said in his budget cover recreation, up $200,000; $1.6 mil- summits, model United Nations, stu- his proposed executive budget total- letter. lion for rental of beds to other coun- dent investigations of education sys- ing $484 million last week, an in- Although tax amounts per towns ties at the county’s juvenile detention Thomas S. Fortunato for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times crease of $4.3 million over what was have not yet been released, according center, approximately $400,000 over LUCK OF THE IRISH...Residents lucked out at Fanwood’s First Annual St. tems in other countries and planning Patrick’s Day Music Festival, held March 19 in the Fanwood Train Station and hosting an international film spent in 2010. A total of $293.8 mil- to figures available on the state De- what was collected in 2010, and $3 parking lot, by getting a sunny, yet cool day. Irish fare and cold beer was on tap festival. lion would be raised in taxes, an partment of Community Affairs million in realty transfer fees from for the event. The plan also encourages visits by increase of $16.4 million, or 6 per- website, in 2010, $28.2 million in the county clerk’s office. Revenue families and community members cent, over last year. county taxes were collected in from Runnells Specialized Hospital to provide personal cultural experi- The state instituted a 2-percent cap Westfield, $15.3 million in Scotch is expected at $37.6 million, similar WF BOE Severs Ties With ences. last year on tax levies, although some Plains, $4.5 million in Fanwood, $2.6 to the amount collected last year. Board member Amy Winkler, who areas are exempt. The county included million in Garwood, $6.9 million in The county also lists $2 million in also sat on the Global Action Plan increases in health care costs, Mountainside, $15.5 million in revenue in 2011 as part of a 22-year Disko; MS Retains Firm Committee, commented, “It was a $5,062,130; pensions, $4,944,677, Cranford and $26.7 million in Sum- lease extension with Covanta Energy, By LAUREN S. BARR $80,000 in kickbacks from contrac- very enriching experience being a and debt service and capital lease mit. Other Union County towns were operator of the county incinerator in Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times tors. part of this group.” increases, $2,654,529, as being out- as follows: Berkeley Heights, $12.8 Rahway. WESTFIELD — Following When contacted by The Scotch Board member David Gorbunoff side the cap. The 2-percent increase, million; Clark, $9.8 million; Eliza- “Despite the continuing debate in charges levied against Westfield Plains-Fanwood Times last week, a said he “applauded all the staff, ad- per the cap, added $5,544,623 to the beth, $31.6 million; Hillside, $8.2 Trenton, a complete ‘toolkit’ has yet Board of Education (BOE) Business person who answered the phone at ministration, parents and students tax levy over 2010. The county, which million; Kenilworth, $6.8 million; to be realized. Unfortunately, while Administrator Robert Berman and M. Disko and Associates said Ken on the committee.” has over a half-million dollars in out- Linden, $22.6 million; New Provi- the state’s fiscal year proposed 2012 engineer/Architect of Record Ken Disko “no longer works here.” Superintendent of Schools Mar- standing debt, is projected to have a dence, $9.6 million; Plainfield, $12.6 budget was able to keep municipal Disko related to bid rigging, the According to the State of New Jer- garet Hayes said she “was awestruck debt service payment in 2011 of $44.9 million; Rahway, $13.6 million; aid stable and provides a modest in- Westfield BOE has served M. Disko sey Business Registration Certificate CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 million. Roselle, $6.7 million; Roselle Park, crease for school funding, Union Associates with legal notice to sever on file with the Scotch Plains- $4.7 million; Springfield, $11.2 mil- County suffered unforeseen state cuts, all contracts with the firm. Fanwood BOE, M. Disko Associates lion; Union, $27.7 million, and which have negatively impacted The Westfield district also has sev- is owned by Michael D. Disko and MS BOE Details Bussing; Winfield, $61,154. Runnells Specialized Hospital and ered ties with Metropolitan Metal the business certificate is valid, ac- County open space tax collections our corrections department,” Mr. Window Company of Fanwood, cording to the state website. The Times were also collected. In 2010 local Devanney said in his letter. whose co-owner, John Sangiuliano, was unable to find proof of an engi- ‘Pay to Play’ Budget Items collections totaled: Westfield, $1.2 Runnells’ projected revenue for also faces charges in the scheme that neering license for Ken Disko. Ac- By DOMINIC A. LAGANO Mr. Saragnese also provided spe- million; Summit, $1.1 million; Scotch 2011 is $37,650,000. The hospital’s allegedly dates back 10 years. cording to the state Department of Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times cific figures for the cost of the so- Plains, $624,722; Mountainside, operating budget this year is Mr. Disko was charged by the At- Community Affairs online registry, MOUNTAINSIDE — The Board called “pay to play” option for co- $282,427; Fanwood, $183,965; $38,376,141. torney General’s office for allegedly engineering and professional plan- of Education (BOE) provided spe- curricular activities, namely clubs and Garwood, $106,349; Cranford, The county manager said revenues submitting fraudulent quotes and es- ner licenses are valid for the senior cific figures for proposed bussing sports. $637,881; Clark, $398,756, and Ber- for state prisoners at the county jail timates to school districts including Michael D. Disko and his son, and activity charges at its third bud- In the performing arts category, keley Heights, $522,495. have declined from $4 million in 2009 Westfield and Scotch Plains- Michael D. Disko, Jr. get presentation Tuesday evening, including band, jazz band, chorus, To offset taxes, the county is pro- to $3 million this year. Last Thurs- Fanwood, and recommending ap- According to Scotch Plains- with presentations from Acting Busi- swing players and the school play, posing to use $18 million in surplus day, the county approved a contract proval of the fraudulently bid con- Fanwood Business Administrator An- ness Administrator Daniel Saragnese the proposed fee imposed would be funds, $6.3 million less than was uti- with a Florida company to conduct tracts in exchange for more than CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 and Chief School Administrator $85 per student per activity. lized last year. Other revenue sources an analysis of the county jail popula- Jeanette Baubles. In the clubs category, including Art include: $3.7 million in revenues from tion, encompassing the courts, pa- The option for a subscription bus Enrichment, and the Chess, Ecology, the county clerk’s office, a jump of CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 service for children living less than and Technology Clubs, the proposed two miles from their school was an- fee imposed would be $40 per stu- nounced. Mr. Saragnese said the esti- dent per activity. mated cost of the service is $540 per Students who participate in the student. He provided figures for other school yearbook next year are facing towns in the area for comparison. a fee of $200 per student. The Union school district will be For those students participating in charging $2,200 per student, sports, including baseball, basketball, Cranford, $884; Springfield, $750; soccer and softball, the proposed fee Westfield, $426, and Scotch Plains- would be $425 per student per sport. Fanwood, $360 per student. Several members of the public Mr. Saragnese stated that the bus voiced their concerns regarding the subscription service was only an es- cost of participating in these activi- timate and would fluctuate, as he ties. An example proposed consist- could not predict how many students ing of three students in one family would participate in the program next requiring bussing, playing several year. The number of participants sports, and participating in several would affect the number of bus routes clubs would cost the family thou- and the “When you move from cour- sands of dollars. Photo courtesy of Nick and Lisa Karter tesy bussing to subscription bussing Mrs. Baubles said, “When you look SUPER MOON…Taken from the cliff in Summit on Sunday, the moon hovers — it’s a fundamental of economics, at enrollment projections for next over Port Newark. From NASA: On March 19, the full moon was of rare size and supply and demand. If year, perhaps if we were to rework Greg Ryan for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times beauty when it rose in the east at sunset. It was a super “perigee moon”— the ENDLESS WINTER...Residents were greeted by an early morning storm that biggest in almost 20 years. “The last full moon so big and close to earth occurred transportation’s free, demand is infi- this, which I’m not suggesting we do covered the area with a dusting of snow on March 21, the first full day of spring. in March of 1993,” says Geoff Chester of the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washing- nite. Anyone who wants a ride will at this late date, if you put all that ton, D.C. Full moons vary in size because of the oval shape of the moon’s orbit. It take a ride for free; when there’s price back in (the funds for co-curricular PAGE INDEX Police Blotter...6 is an ellipse with one side (perigee) about 30,000 miles closer to Earth than the attached to it, people have to make activities) we’d have class sizes of Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 12-17 other (apogee). Nearby perigee moons are about 14 percent bigger and 30 percent some different decisions,” Mr. 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 — it gets very Editorial ...... 4-5, 16 Education ...... 9, 18 Classifieds .... 16 brighter than lesser moons that occur on the apogee side of the moon’s orbit. Saragnese said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Community ... 6-8 Sports ...... 11-16 A&E ...... 19-20
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Horace R. Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY…On March 14, gentlemen gathered at the Kenilworth VFW for a sampling of fine wines, French gourmet cuisine and merriment at the Cranford Chapter of Les Marmitons’ monthly soirée, where a “bon moment” was had by all. See story on page 20. County Unveils Budget Westfield Expected to Debut Del Sordi - SPF BOE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 role and probation divisions, in an county police department and $20.5 $39.5 Mil Budget Next Week effort to reduce the population by 10 million in the county prosecutor’s By LAUREN S. BARR library, which is set on a calculated at all the progress the committee has four candidates have filed for two percent to save money. The proposed office. The county also projects to Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times state statute, is down $90,277, and made.” She also thanked Mr. Siegel open Scotch Plains seats on the corrections budget is $44.3 million, spend $14.4 million to manage its WESTFIELD – At Tuesday night’s the town’s joint insurance fund cost for his time and said, “Thanks to school board. They are Douglas $2.5 million over last year. The bud- facilities. Westfield Town Council conference is down $22,915 over last year. your leadership, Brad, this curricu- Layne, Melanie Root, Victor get includes $6.1 million in overtime During the first of four budget hear- meeting, the Finance Policy Com- Last year, the town saw a dramatic lum will reach the classroom because DeVizio and incumbent Warren for corrections officers, the same num- ings with department heads conducted mittee unveiled the proposed decrease in state aid and offset the our teachers are really involved.” McFall. Margaret Savoca, Michael ber as last year. by the freeholders’ fiscal affairs com- $39,513,027 2011 municipal budget. budget by use of saved money from At the end of the meeting, Mr. Lewis and Jeanne Cleary have filed Mr. Devanney said state-funding mittee, County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi The budget will be formally intro- the sale of town property account. Whitehouse noted that on Saturday, nominating petitions for Fanwood’s cuts at Runnells has “created a $7.5- said elimination of a separate Presi- duced at next week’s public meeting The town also negotiated 0 percent April 16, the “United for a Cause” one available seat. Incumbents million revenue gap.” In addition, he dential Primary Election, currently and will likely see final adoption at increases on both the firefighters’ and 5K run will take place in conjunc- Donald Parisi from Scotch Plains said, the “national decline in the real scheduled for February, in addition to the Tuesday, April 26 meeting. If public works employees’ contracts, tion with the Fanwood-Scotch Plains and Robert O’Connor of Fanwood estate market” caused the county’s the regular June Primary would save passed in its current form, the budget which increase 2.5 percent and 2 per- YMCA for the Diane McGovern are not seeking re-election. revenues to drop from $12 million in the county $360,000. will mean an increase of $128 on the cent this year, respectively. All non- Fund. He said money would be given The school election, including a 2005 to the current $6 million; while Her election division budget is pro- average assessed home valued at union employees currently are in a to the McGovern family to assist vote on the 2011-2012 school tax the county ratable base dropped from posed at $1.1 million in addition to $184,000. salary freeze, and the town also insti- with their medical costs, as Ms. levy, will take place Wednesday, $78 to $71 billion. the $2 million clerk’s office budget. With Finance Committee Chair- tuted a hiring freeze last June. Town McGovern, a teacher at Scotch April 27, from 2 to 9 p.m. A public In addition, he said mandated The state added the additional elec- man Mark Ciarrocca away, the bud- Administrator James Gildea said that, Plains-Fanwood High School since hearing on the school budget will costs, such as salaries, pensions and tion date in 2008 in an effort to give get was introduced by Councilman “things we did last year made a big 1993, has had an ongoing battle with take place tonight, March 24, at 8 health insurance, have increased $18 New Jersey more of a say in the Sam Della Fera, who said it was difference this year.” He added that inflammatory breast cancer. p.m. in the board meeting room at million. selection of the major political par- “another challenging year” as the the budget process “never really School officials also noted that the Evergreen School. According to a breakdown of de- ties’ nominees for president. committee had to meet the state’s 2- ends.” partment operating budgets, the Legislation is currently under con- percent cap requirement. He ex- Mayor Andy Skibitsky said that Garwood Tackles Athletic Field and county will spend $3.1 million in sideration to move the election to the plained to the council that revenues the “employees have really stepped golf operations, $16.9 million in the June Primary date to avoid additional are down due to property-tax appeals up and helped us.” Budget Continues to be Key Topic sheriff’s office, $7.7 million for the costs of a separate election. and that the total ratables in the town The proposed budget is available are, “now less than they were in 2009.” at westfieldnj.gov and the town is By MANDY L. RUSSELL of the project broken down into price Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times categories to see what each piece will The town’s operating budget is asking for residents to e-mail GARWOOD – Pleas for the new ath- cost. She hopes to have these costs bro- Westfield Ends Disko Ties down $240,298 over last year and [email protected] with any letic field project’s completion continued ken down coming out of the April 11 salaries have decreased by $284,377. questions or suggestions. at Tuesday night’s Garwood Borough meeting. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 The town has eliminated, largely During the public comment por- Council meeting, with reoccurring faces Garwood resident Jeff Sylvester asked thony Del Sordi, the BOE does not employed by Union County for engi- through retirements, 10 full-time po- tion of the meeting, West Dudley representing their cause. the Mayor if the numbers would be avail- currently have any contracts with M. neering services pertaining to the sitions and one part-time position; Avenue resident Ross Katz com- Garwood resident Richard King opened able for the public to see after the meet- Disko Associates and has no current Westbrook flood control project, a additionally, one full-time position is plained to the council regarding gar- the athletic field discussion with a state- ing. Mr. Sylvester hoped they would be plans to hire a forensic accountant to project totaling over $400,000 in county being converted to two part-time po- bage along the fence line at the de- ment he composed to Mayor Patricia posted for the public to see how the examine any previous contracts. He funds dating back to 2001. The firm of sitions. partment of public works building on Quattrocchi and members of the council. money will be broken down into what The Times M. Disko Associates, and before that “In the early 70’s, I got into the materials and aspects of the project. also told that, “I would think All of the town department bud- North Avenue. He also said that the Garwood baseball program. I remember Garwood resident Bruce Paterson that they [SP-F BOE] would wait until the firm Disko-Lehr Associates, have gets are less than 2010, with the ex- paver stones along the side of the back then the Yankees offering to pur- asked if the public would be welcome to the outcome of the trial to determine been used by many towns, including ception of the fire department, which World War I monument are falling chase new lights for our town baseball sit in on the April 11 meeting. what, if any, future work will be given Westfield, Cranford and Mountainside, is seeing a nearly $4,000 increase for apart and have become a “public field, and our mayor at the time declined,” Mayor Quattrocchi explained that the to M. Disko Associates.” over the past 40 years for engineering uniform costs, and the town’s legal safety” issue for pedestrians. Mr. King said. meeting would be limited to the architect, The firm was retained by the Scotch services, drainage and flood issues. department, which is seeing a $10,300 Francis Terrace resident Peter He furthered by saying that Garwood the council and herself, but that she hopes Plains-Fanwood BOE on three occa- Michael D. Disko, Jr. is currently the increase due to property-tax appeals Laskaris said that he is gathering was sitting on a grant for $1.7 million to the numbers can eventually be brought to sions since 2006 for athletic field work. borough engineer for Mountainside. and labor matters. information regarding the pedestrian invest in the revamp of the athletic fields. the public in some form. She also said According to Mr. Del Sordi, the first The Borough Council of Despite all of the savings on oper- activated light on Central Avenue near “This money is ours, given to us spe- that a meeting open to the public would Mountainside discussed the issue last cifically for this very project, and my eventually happen if plans continue to project was for field renovations, with ating costs and salaries, the town’s Clover Street, and that 13 of the 14 question to you, mayor, is when are we move forward. a fee of approximately $18,000; the week in executive session to decide if revenue is down $859,880 from 2010, people he has spoken to have “is- going to invest in the children in this Baseball President and Garwood resi- second project was the installation of any action was necessary. which is causing the total budget in- sues” with the light. He said that, town?” he asked. dent Scott Kessler told the mayor that he two turf fields and renovation to the “Mike Disko, Sr. and Disko Associ- crease. “right now, it’s not perfect.” Mr. King explained that he had family planned to address the children and their running track, with a fee of $166,855, ates provided distinguished service as The towns were restricted this year Mayor Skibitsky said that the light in the baseball program and was pulling families on baseball opening day on Sat- and the final project was for additional Mountainside’s Borough engineer for to a 2-percent cap on tax levies. How- is for the “greater good of the com- for them and all the other children who urday, April 9. drainage work on the baseball field, many years. When Mike, Sr. retired, ever, officials said several “statutory” munity.” He said that according to the would benefit from this project, includ- “I plan to say that I hope this will be the with no charge for the design or over- we were pleased to appoint Mike, Jr., items fall outside the cap and have report produced by the county’s en- ing perhaps family members of the gov- last time I will be standing on this field on sight of the project. who has continued his father’s distin- increased 5.25 percent over last year. gineering firm, The Louis Berger erning body. opening day and that plans were moving guished service. We have been assured The mayor informed the public that a forward on the athletic field revamp,” The Westfield Board of Education The increases include: the town’s debt Group, it is safer for children to cross meeting with the council and the archi- Mr. Kessler said. was unable to provide information re- that neither Mike, Sr. nor Mike, Jr. were service payment, which is up $67,235; away from the intersection so that tect was set for Monday, April 11. Councilman James Mathieu reported garding how much has been paid to M. involved in the actions that resulted in public employee pension payment, there are less points of conflict. “By this time next month, I hope to that the budget was decreased to below Disko Associates over the past 10 years Ken Disko’s indictment, and so up $209,139; firefighter pension pay- When asked by Mr. Laskaris why a have some final answers to be able to $7 million and that officials were able to without an OPRA (Open Public Mountainside’s relationship with Mike, ment, up $334,778; health insurance regular traffic light was not installed move forward on this, but I need a tight keep the tax increase on the low end at 2.9 Records Act) request. One has been Sr. and Mike, Jr. will not be affected by is up $273,000 and the Rahway Val- at the intersection of Clover and Cen- packaged plan first,” said Mayor percent. “I challenged my colleagues to filed by The Times. that indictment,” Mountainside Mayor ley Sewerage Authority payment has tral, Mr. Gildea responded that a war- Quattrocchi. find a decrease of $45,000,” Councilman M. Disko Associates is currently Al Mirabelli said. increased $130,151. Funding for the rant analysis was conducted in 2002 The mayor wants all the components Mathieu said. that indicated a light was not needed. The light that currently is installed is only activated by a pedestrian and is located mid-block. Third Ward Councilman Dave Haas raised questions regarding whether a different type of warrant analysis would have led to a traffic light at the corner. When Councilman Haas said that he was not sure that the current location is the “safest,” Mayor Skibitsky said that while he believed Councilman Haas has read the re- ports, “you don’t like what it says.” MS BOE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 difficult and when you spread it around, you spread it around in a way where you’re no longer meeting ex- penditures.” The BOE will present its final bud- get to the Union County executive superintendent of schools, Joseph Passiment, for approval. The public vote on the budget will be held on Wednesday, April 27, at which time residents will also cast their vote for their choice of five BOE candidates vying for two open seats. Polls will be open from 2 until 9 p.m. at Deerfield School, the Com- munity Presbyterian Church and Bor- ough Hall. The next BOE meeting is sched- uled for Wednesday, April 6, at 6:30 p.m. at Beechwood School. The pub- lic will have the opportunity to meet the BOE candidates at this meeting. For more information on the pro- Photo courtesy of Bob Cozzolina posed budget, including a video, go WORLD TRAVELER...Robert Cozzolina caught up with the local news while to mountainsideschools.org. reading The Westfield Leader in Buenos Aires, Argentina. goleader.com online exclusive A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, March 24, 2011 Page E-5 The publishers of the LEADER/TIMES strive to bring you, our readers, the best weekly newspaper in the state. But to help us keep doing this … WE WANT YOU … AS A SUBSCRIBER !
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If paying by check mail to: P.O. Box 250 Westfield, New Jersey 07091. It’s Always Open 24 Hours! Or call 908.232.4407 for further assistance. Page 2 Thursday, March 24, 2011 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION County: Reimbursement On Peyton's Democrats Name Wright to Medicaid Impacts Runnells Peek at the Week Run With Estrada, Hudak By MICHAEL J. POLLACK has tried to “get their attention.” What In Politics UNION COUNTY — The Union palities) through (county) programs Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times happens, he said, is that a few rally, “but By Paul Peyton of The Leader/Times County Democratic Committee has such as road repair, 911 dispatch ser- BERKELEY HEIGHTS – The Union the rest do nothing...it’s very frustrat- announced that it has selected Vernell vices, Hazmat services, immuniza- County Freeholders held a hearing, ing for us. Union County has fought Judge: Christie Cuts Didn’t Allow should give it a serious review and Wright of Union, a former teacher, to tion programs, K-9 police dog pro- Tuesday, to discuss three departments these battles for years.” Schools to Offer ‘Efficient’ Edu. then return to the table with a willing- fill the third spot on the committee’s grams and dozens of other special- that make up the $485-million pro- Runnells’ total appropriations are State Superior Court Judge Peter ness to use it as the basis to begin slate for the county’s Board of Chosen ized services.” posed budget. Meeting at Runnells Spe- scheduled to rise from $37,799,338 to Doyne ruled Tuesday that Gov. Chris earnest negotiations. The workers have Freeholders. She will join incumbents Commenting on the board’s listed cialized Hospital’s multipurpose room, $38,376,141. Later in the evening, Christie's deep cuts to state school made a proposal as part of a good faith Angel Estrada of Elizabeth and Chris accomplishments, Jim Devine of the freeholders heard reports of how Runnells Chief Financial Officer aid last year left New Jersey's schools negotiating effort, and the administra- Hudak of Linden. Ms. Wright replaces Democrats for Change said, “They the state government has allegedly vio- Michael Drummond said in 2010, unable to provide a "thorough and tion should now do the same.” Runnells anticipated $41,150,000 but Freeholder Nancy Ward, who an- (Democratic Committee candidates) lated provisions outlined in the Ameri- efficient" education to 1.4 million A spokesman for Governor Christie nounced she would not seek reelection. are fast and lose with the truth.” He can Recovery and Reinvestment Act only realized $36,024,264. Now, in school children, nj.com has reported. said the governor planned to stick to (ARRA) by under-reimbursing the 2011, they have dropped their antici- “We believe our Democratic team said the county should be paying off The Governor cut state aid by $820 his plan to have state employees to has the right priorities for Union County the remaining debt on the incinerator county for services provided to pated revenue to $37 million. million in 2010. Judge Doyne found pay 30 percent of their health care Runnells. This has led to the freehold- The evening also featured a summary in supporting important programs such rather than extending the lease. that the state would have needed $1.6 premiums through the legislative pro- as education, jobs training, and shared Mr. Devine also said the proposed ers challenging the state’s method for of a portion of the Public Safety Depart- billion to fully fund the School Fund- cess, nj.com reported. Union mem- determining Medicaid payment rates. ment, which makes up about 20 percent services,” said Mr. Estrada, who has 6 percent increase in county taxes is of the overall budget. The overall appro- ing Reform Act formula. bers currently pay 1.5 percent of their served on the board since 2000. “Union three times the state-imposed cap on Last week, Union County Manager The state Attorney General's Of- salary for health care coverage. George Devanney unveiled the 2011 priation for the department is $92 mil- County Democrats have also champi- tax levies and three times the rate of executive budget of $485 million of lion, the largest percentages going to- fice argued that the aid cuts were Union Workers Protest oned transparent and accountable gov- inflation. He also said the county has which $293 million would be raised in wards the Department of Corrections, necessary because of New Jersey's Outside Ruiz Office ernment to the people and have main- not accounted for a quarter of a mil- taxes, an increase of $16 million. In his $44 million for the county jail opera- dire financial situation. Members of the Communication tained fiscal stability despite the na- lion dollars in receipts from last year’s preamble, Tuesday, Mr. Devanney told tion; County Prosecutor’s Office, $20.5 Scutari and Lesniak Would Be Workers of America (CWA) and other tional recession.” Musicfest. “It’s (county Democrats directors and freeholders that Runnells, million, and the Sherriff’s Office, $16.9 In Same Dist. Under GOP Plan unions including the New Jersey Edu- Mr. Hudak, who was elected by the listed accomplishments) a giant lie,” “last year, had a hole of $4.5 million, million. Tuesday’s hearing focused Senator Nick Scutari (D-22, Lin- cation Association (NJEA) and AFL- Democratic Committee in December Mr. Devine said. and that $4.5 million had to be made up. strictly on the Public Safety Division, den) and Senator Ray Lesniak (D-20, CIO last week rallied outside the New- to fill the seat left vacant upon the He called the selection of Ms. Not only did that have to be made up, which features the county police, health Elizabeth) would wind up in the same ark office of Senator Teresa Ruiz’s (D- resignation of Rick Proctor upon his Wright “an act of desperation” by but we also...could not anticipate that office, consumer affairs and emergency legislative district under a legislative 29, Newark) and other legislators’ of- election mayor of Rahway, added he Assemblyman Joseph Cryan (D-20, $4.5 million in this year’s budget. So, management, among others. districts map proposed by Republi- fices in support of the collective bar- would like to continue the progress Union) “to attract some more support right off the bat, we were in a $9- The county police ($7.7-million bud- cans, nj.com has reported. gaining rights of unionized workers. get), is the county’s “most visible” pres- he said the board is making in helping out of Union” in the election. million hole. That was significant.” Meanwhile, Democrats, who have NJWSC Commissioners revitalize Union County’s economy. According to the Democratic Com- Consultant Alfred Pino, who is work- ence, noted Chief Dan Vaniska. He said majority in the Senate and Assembly Resign After Christie Demand ing to try to recoup some of the lost the division operates the bomb-squad- “Our priority is to find ways to mittee, Ms. Wright served as a princi- for the past 10 years, want to move North Jersey District Water Sup- stretch tax dollars without adding to pal in the Union Township Schools money, said Runnells serves a 90-per- response vehicle, which is “probably Assemblyman Joseph Malone (R-30, ply (NJDWSC) Commissioners cent Medicaid-eligible population. For the most important” part of the office. economic distress,” Mr. Hudak said. system. If elected, she said she would Burlington) from his Ocean County Albert Manzo and Michael Cricco “At the same time, we must also focus continue to support county educational many years, the state’s Medicaid-reim- It was mobilized 43 times last year. Republican-dominated district to a both resigned Monday after being bursement system has “under-reim- He also spoke highly of the work of the on important things like assisting our services such as Union County Col- Forensic Ballistic Unit, which goes out to Burlington County-based district that notified in writing by Governor Chris residents with jobs training at our One- lege and the county’s Vocational-Tech- bursed” nursing homes, he said. Re- has more Democrats. Christie that he was removing them cently, the payment burden has “shifted” violent crime scenes and processes ballistic Stop centers, and working to create nical Schools system, and programs from the state to the counties. Since evidence. This unit has the ability to match The 10 members of state’s reappor- from the commission. The Governor new jobs as we’re doing with the such as freeholder scholarships. January 2004, Mr. Pino believes the shell casings to a weapon in a matter of four tionment commission, split evenly said Mr. Cricco was being removed Wakefern project in Elizabeth and our “A strong investment in education hospital has been under-reimbursed by to eight hours.The Chief also touted the among Democrats and Republicans, for attending daytime NJDWSC with- economic development projects.” helps residents improve their quality $26 million. Further, he said the state work of the shared dispatch program, are waiting a decision by the 11th –tie- out permission of his employer, the Mr. Hudak is a former manager of of life,” said Ms. Wright, who cur- “has violated certain provisions of with which Fanwood got on board last breaking vote, Alan Rosenthal, a pub- New Jersey Schools Development the Rahway Motor Vehicles office rently serves as an adjunct supervisor ARRA to the tune of $4.4 million.” year. He called the program a “huge lic policy professor at Rutgers Univer- Authority (NJSDA). Mr. Manzo was and was the legislative aid to the late at Kean University. Thus far, the state has “ignored” the success,” as the county takes a sity. The decision is due by April 3. being removed for not including a Senator Joe Suliga. Charlotte DeFilippo, chairwoman county’s appeals, he reported. municipality’s 911 calls and dispatches CWA Says Union Willing to second residence in Franklin Lakes The Democratic freeholder candi- of the Union County Democratic In addition, the county facility also all police, fire and EMS. Chief Vaniska Pay 14 percent of Premiums in his nomination documents to the dates said they will campaign on the Committee, said, “We have an infu- provides mental-health services, and it is said the county wants to expand the The Communications Workers of state Senate in March 2009, the Gov- “$276-million property tax relief sion of new faces, and fresh ideas claiming to be under-funded by $2.1 program, and a minimum of seven towns America (CWA), which represents ernor said. have expressed interest. He said it was plan” they said would result from the balanced by veteran leadership that million, bringing the total of ARRA un- about 40,000 New Jersey state work- Lawmakers Seek to Ban 22-year extension being negotiated is reinvigorating county government, derpayments to about $6.5 million. a “vast, successful step to saving mu- ers, has offered a plan union leaders ‘Bath Salts’ Following Murder “They’ve done this to the point that nicipalities money.” with Covanta Energy by the Union and leading us into a new era.” say would increase employees’ share Asw. Linda Stender (D-22, County Utilities Authority for the Major political party candidates currently, with Runnells, the state is mak- Florence Peterson, director of the of health insurance premiums to 14 Fanwood) is among lawmakers that ing a profit on this facility,” Mr. Pino said. Office of Consumer Affairs ($791,000 lease of the county’s incinerator in have until 4 p.m. on Monday, April percent and save taxpayers more than plan to introduce legislation aimed at Rahway. The new contract would run 11 to file nominating petitions for the “They’re making a claim to the federal budget), said the office’s caseload in- $200 million by 2013. The plan calls banning the sale of “bath salts,” legal government, and they’re recovering the creased 27 percent in 2010, responding through 2045. Tuesday, June 7 Primary Election. to 502 complaints. for increased monthly contributions powders that give users a high not The candidates also listed a wage The filing deadline is expected to be federal share, about 62 percent.” and higher co-pays for doctor’s visits unlike that of meth. The bill comes Freeholder Angel Estrada, noting the She said the public would soon have freeze of county employees “for more extended by the state as the new state $26-million shortage since 2004, asked if the ability to file complaints against and prescription drugs. after the murder in Cranford of a than two years,” adding that “at least legislative districts map is not ex- it is “time to get together with other col- retailers on the Internet, as a means of In response, Assembly Majority Rutgers senior by her boyfriend who eight public employee unions have pected to be approved until April 3. leagues (counties) and take legal action, or improving efficiency. In addition, the Leader Joseph Cryan (D-20, Union) was said to have been using bath salts. had their wages frozen and are con- Mr. Devine said Democrats for change should we write these off as a loss?” office will be implementing a settle- responded: “This is a strong proposal The legislation would criminalize tributing more to their benefits pro- plan again to run a full slate of county Mr. Pino said it is “difficult to get a ment program for offenders as an op- that serves as a good basis to jump- both possession and sale of any prod- gram.” They also spoke of shared candidates in the Primary. Republicans lot of counties on board.” He said he tion instead of going to court. start collective bargaining with the ucts containing substances that in- services, saying, “Millions (of dol- are expected to hold a convention in administration. The administration clude mephedrone or MDPV. lars) have been saved (for munici- early April to name their slate. OWEN BRAND Richard J. Kaplow, Esq. 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Ex-Plf. Finance Director State Selects Treatment Ctrs. Muñoz, Allen Push for Vote Named to County Post For Medical Marijuana On ‘Jessica Lunford Act’ By PAUL J. PEYTON she was no longer employed by Dover. TRENTON — Assemblywoman Lunsford traveling to New Jersey for Specially Written for the Westfield Leader and The Times She also received COBRA coverage of TRENTON — The state Depart- Inc., to be located in either Burlington Nancy Muñoz (R-21, Summit) and the second time to advocate for en- ELIZABETH — Bibi Taylor of East $15,000 and pay for accumulated sick ment of Health and Senior Services or Camden County; Northern Re- Senator Diane Allen (R-7, Burlington) actment of this legislation. One of Orange, a former municipal finance days not used of $25,500. gion, Foundation Harmony, to be lo- were joined by Mark Lunsford in a society’s primary responsibilities is Dover had initially extended her (DHSS) has announced the selection director in Plainfield and Dover, has of six nonprofit entities to operate cated in Secaucus, Hudson County State House press conference March to protect its children. I intend to been named Union County’s new finance contract through the end of 2012 in a bid 21 advocating for legislation known vigorously pursue this legislation to keep her from taking a similar position Alternative Treatment Centers and Greenleaf Compassion Center, department director. to be located in Montclair, Essex as the “Jessica Lunsford Act,” which until it becomes law.” According to a county press release, in Morristown, The Daily Record (ATCs) for the state’s Medicinal Marijuana program. County. increases prison sentences for sex “New Jersey is one of the few re- Ms. Taylor was to commence working reported. Ms. Taylor’s employment with offenders and persons who harbor maining states in the nation not to as assistant to retiring director Lawrence Dover began in Dover January 1, 2006. The successful applicants are: The regional breakdown is as fol- According to her resume, she also served Central Region, Breakwater Alter- lows: Northern Region, Bergen, them. Mr. Lunsford is the father of 9- enact Jessica’s Law,” Asw. Allen said. Caroselli as of March 21, but will not year old Jessica, a Florida girl who “Those who sexually abuse children assume the position of director position three years as township administrator in native Treatment Center, Corp. ATC, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sus- until at least May 1 when Mr. Caroselli River Vale. She also serving as interim with the center to be located in sex and Warren Counties; Central was kidnapped, sexually assaulted are the most depraved sort of mon- retires. County Manager George police director during her final 20 months Manalapan, Monmouth County and Region, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Mer- and murdered by a registered sex sters and should be removed from Devanney said Ms. Taylor was being of employment with the town. Compassionate Care Centers of cer, Monmouth, Ocean, Somerset and offender in 2005. society for as long as possible…We brought on to ensure a smooth transition Ms. Taylor also served on the East America Foundation Inc. (CCCAF), Union Counties; Southern Region, In May 2005, Asw. Muñoz’ late need to get this done for our children as the county prepares the 2011 fiscal Orange Board of Education for six years, to be located in New Brunswick, Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape husband, Assemblyman Eric Muñoz, and for the safety of the public at budget. The proposed budget is $484 including in the role of board president, Middlesex County. May, Cumberland, Gloucester and and Senator Allen introduced the large in New Jersey.” million. The county also has long-term through May 2009. Prior to that she was The Southern Region will include: Salem Counties. original version of the “Jessica The “Jessica Lunsford Act” (A- debt in excess of $500 million. East Orange acting assistant to city’s Compassionate Care Foundation Inc., The six winning applicants were Lunsford Act” that included 45 bi- 1767/S-533) would impose a manda- Since January 2010, Ms. Taylor ran the administrator and grants analyst. to be located in Bellmawr, Camden selected from among 35 applications partisan sponsors. The last action seen tory imprisonment of 25 years to life day-to-day operations as city Ms. Taylor received a master’s degree County and Compassionate Sciences, submitted by 21 applicants. Several by the current bill was its unanimous for first-degree sex crimes against administrator where she oversaw a staff in 2001 in public administration in public applicants applied to operate multiple approval in the Assembly Judiciary children and a three-year sentence on of over 500 municipal employees and a sector finance from Rutgers University Trinitas Receives ATCs in multiple regions. The appli- Committee on May 13, 2010, at which anyone caught harboring or conceal- budget of $72 million. Prior to that, Ms. and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political cations were scored by a five-member time it was referred to the Appropria- ing a person not complying with the Taylor’s was director of administration Science in 1998 from the University of selection committee comprised of tions Committee where the lawmak- registration provisions of Megan’s and finance for Plainfield. West Florida, Pensacola, Fla. $1.1-Mil. Grant ELIZABETH — Trinitas Regional three employees from DHSS, and one ers said it has languished. Law. “Bibi Taylor brings a wealth of Commenting on her hiring by the “With 56 Assembly members spon- Senator Tom Kean, Jr. (R-21, knowledge and experience in financial county, Ms. Taylor said she was Medical Center in Elizabeth was among each from the departments of Agricul- 10 health care facilities awarded $30 ture and Community Affairs. soring this bill, it should be progress- Westfield) and Sen. Allen are the management,” Mr. Devanney said. “She “humbled” by the appointment, and ing through the approval process,” primary sponsors of the Senate ver- looked forward to embracing the million by the state to stabilize access “This is pioneering territory for the is highly regarded among her peers. I Asw. Muñoz said. “I appreciate Mr. sion of the bill. am confident Bibi Taylor will help challenges ahead. to critical health care services. State of New Jersey. We are now one Union County move ahead into a new “I am thankful for this opportunity In addition to the $30 million in step closer to providing patients with era as a capable successor to Director and grateful to the county manager, Health Care Stabilization Fund grants, debilitating conditions relief from Caroselli, who admirably served the Director Caroselli and the freeholders Governor Chris Christie proposed in chronic pain,” said Dr. Poonam county for the past 35 years.” for their support,” Ms. Taylor said. “My the Fiscal Year 2012 State Budget a Alaigh, health and senior services According to media reports, Ms. career has followed a natural $30-million increase to $90 million in commissioner. “The Department an- Taylor was initially terminated in progression that has prepared me to Graduate Medical Education (GME) ticipates that these ATCs will be op- December by Plainfield Mayor Sharon meet the inevitable budgetary and a $10-million increase to $675 erating this summer.” Robinson-Briggs, but the city council challenges ahead.” million in charity care payments. Among the components used in over ruled the mayor in a 7-0 vote, Freeholder Vice-Chairman Al the selection process were a plan to Mirabella, serving as chairman of the Trinitas was awarded $1.2 million. noting the mayor had made the Also receiving grants were: East Or- provide counseling and educational termination effective Christmas Day finance committee, praised Ms. Taylor’s materials on methods of using me- and in the last stages of Ms. Taylor’s appointment. “I commend our county ange General, $3 million; Hoboken Municipal Hospital Authority, $4.1 dicinal marijuana and promote re- pregnancy. She was hired by Plainfield manager for conducting an extensive search studies on health effects and a Interior Renovations in July 2009, according to nj.com. search for Director Caroselli’s million; Jersey City Medical Center, replacement and for bringing Ms. Taylor $3 million; Kimball Medical Center quality control program to ensure the The Daily Record reported in 2009 quality of the medicinal marijuana, that Ms. Taylor, than under the name on board during this year’s budgetary (Lakewood), $1.2 million: Our Lady of KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • BASEMENTS • MILLWORKING Bibi Stewart Garvin, was given a process. Her appointment ensures a Lourdes Health Foundation (Camden) including purity, potency and consis- REPLACEMENT WINDOWS • RE-FIT EXISTING ROOMS $250,000 buyout package from Dover transition that will help continue the $1.2 million; Raritan Bay Medical tency of dose and a plan to dispose of in June 2008 to resign as town smooth flow of operation and stability Center (Perth Amboy), $4 million; Saint unusable marijuana. administrator. The agreement included of our county’s finances.” Mary’s Hospital of Passaic, $3.3 mil- For complete information on New Building Yesteryear Today Jersey’s medicinal marijuana pro- her full 2008 salary of $139,259, although Mr. Devanney said Ms. Taylor’s will lion; St. Claire’s Hospital (Denville), 908-232-6380 www.simpsonsbuilders.com she resigned June 11 of that year, and salary will be $120,000. Mr. Caroselli $1.8 million, and Christ Hospital (Jer- gram, visit the DHSS Medicinal $129,719 for her salary in 2009, although is paid $132,000. sey City), $7 million. Marijuana website. Page 4 Thursday, March 24, 2011 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION ABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ The Westfield Leader The Scotch Plains–Fanwood Letters to the Editor Times Since 1959 — Established 1890 — DD Legal Newspaper for the Town of Westfield, Legal Newspaper for the Borough of Fanwood Shackamaxon Was Proven Wrong DTM Boroughs of Mountainside and Garwood And the Township of Scotch Plains D Diction Deception And the County of Union, NJ. Members of: In Holding Up Return of Deposit Below are four arcane words, each New Jersey Press Association • National Newspaper Association • Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce After numerous unsuccessful attempts tative rejected a mediator’s suggestion to with four definitions – only one is correct. Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association • Fanwood Business & Professional Association to recover a $2,500 “refundable security settle this case without a formal hearing, The others are made up. Are you sharp deposit” from Shackamaxon Country a judge ruled that the club was, in fact, enough to discern this deception of dic- Periodicals – Postage Paid at Rahway, New Jersey Periodicals – Postage Paid at Rahway, New Jersey Club, my only viable option to guarantee legally obligated to return the $2,500 tion? P.O. Box 250 • 251 North Avenue, West P. O. Box 368 a full recovery of my deposit was to file a deposit and entered a judgment against If you can guess one correctly – good Westfield, N.J. 07091 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 suit in smalls claim court. Regretfully, the club. The club’s defense centered on guess. If you get two – well-read indi- Tele: (908) 232-4407 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.goleader.com • Fax: (908) 232-0473 my efforts to handle this matter in an “if we do it for you (return the deposit), vidual. If you get three – word expert. If honorable manner were rebuffed by the we will have to do it for everyone,” and you get all four – You must have a lot of POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at club’s president over a period of several what the club’s representative termed, free time! P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091 months. Without ever corresponding with “fraudulent conveyance.” Thankfully, All words and correct definitions Published every Thursday by Watchung Communications, Inc. me directly, he sent the following mes- neither defense held up in court and the come from the board game Diction sage via an e-mail from the club’s general judge ruled in my favor. Now, when I Deception. Paul Peyton Horace R. Corbin Jeff Gruman manager stating, in part, “The Club has finally receive the $2,500 from Answers to last week’s arcane words. ASSIGNMENT EDITOR PUBLISHER SALES MANAGER been advised by its counsel not to return Shackamaxon, I will use the money to 1. Cineraceous – Having the color of Suzette F. Stalker David B. Corbin Michael L. Bartiromo any security deposits at this time.” I found, pay my lawyer (he has bills to pay and ashes COMMUNITY ASSISTANT PUBLISHER & SPORTS MARKETING PRODUCTION regretfully, that my definition of “refund- mouths to feed!) and donate the remain- 2. Bothrenchyma – In botany, tissue Betsey Burgdorf Ben Corbin Robert P. Connelly able” differed from that of the club’s der to the Westfield Food Pantry so some- composed of pitted ducts EDUCATION & ARTS SERVICES BUSINESS OPERATIONS president and his “counsel.” thing positive can come out of this unfor- 3. Leucosis – Albinism On Tuesday, March 15, after an initial tunate case. 4. Carrion – The decaying flesh of a mediation hearing at the Union County Tom Purdy dead body SUBSCRIPTION PRICE www.goleader.com/subscribe Courthouse in which the club’s represen- One-year – $33 • Two-year – $62 • Three-year – $90 Westfield THERIOMORPHIC 1. Grotesque transformation; such as Union County 2011 Budget Yields from a human to a werewolf 2. Said of gods having the form of an County Taxes, The Dem Party Primary animal Includes Suspicious Revenue Items 3. Rapidly changing from a solid form Union County held their first 2011 tingent.” to a gaseous form And The Western County Roundup budget hearing at 5 p.m. on March 17. A I empathize with reporters who try to 4. An animal’s ability to change its little after 3 p.m. on March 17, the execu- get answers to these questions. You can form to adapt to its surroundings for The Union County Democrats this week, solidified The East County Dems also took two other steps to tive budget was first posted on the county’s file an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) protection their political grasp of the Union County Board of “Cho- strengthen their grasp for the upcoming Primary battle. website, though excluding the financial request to get hard copies of documents, ARGALI sen” Freeholders in preparing for the upcoming battle They presented a budget for this year with a 6 percent numbers which only became available to but you cannot get questions answered 1. A species of very large wild sheep going into the Democratic primary elections this spring. property tax increase, which pours a greater amount of the public later. Now that I see the budget through that law. You can go to free- 2. Having a silver coating or luster After appointing Chris Hudak of Linden in December to money from the impotent West to their receiving voter base numbers, I can also see why the county holder meetings and ask questions, but 3. A native of a mountainous area in replace Rick Proctor of Rahway, who became mayor, they in the East. Also, they rewarded the allegiance from the administration preferred to keep them a there is no guarantee of an answer. In fact, northwestern Scotland followed by doubling up the “Chosen” Freeholder repre- island of Plainfield and solidified their “no peek policy” by secret. three years ago when I started attending 4. A Scottish thatched hut sentation on the ticket to be from the Township of Union. appointing the Plainfield city administrator to be the head Among the suspicious items: these meetings regularly the very idea of RYOT The office of the county clerk is pre- having a question addressed was ridicu- 1. A daydream Democrats from this area, towns West of the Parkway of Union County finances. To us, this is not a ringing dicted to bring in $3,700,000; though the lous as your five-minute comment time 2. Robbery who pay much of the tax burden, had their hopes dashed endorsement for fiscal sanity. realized income in 2010 was only was strictly for venting, primarily by the 3. A tenant farmer of India of being “Chosen” for representation on the board. Coun- Westfielders, who sent $28.2 million in property taxes $3,260,054 and land transactions are not two citizens who usually constituted the 4. An undue burden or unfair demand cilman David Haas of Westfield, a moderate Democrat, to the county last year, can expect that contribution to the likely to explode anytime soon. “public” at these gatherings. DIANOETIC had been considered by many to be an ideal choice. East to slop well over the top of the $30 million mark this Something labeled “Trust Fund Bal- Are we left to trust that some state 1. Belonging to a species of caustic Last spring, a renegade group of Democrats from year. Summit at $26.7 million can expect the same. The ance” is expected to raise $750,000 for bureaucrat at the Division of Local Gov- curves or surfaces caused by refraction Elizabeth, “Democrats for Change” – reportedly sup- ‘Western Roundup’ ($millions from last year) also in- the first time this year. ernment Services with oversight respon- 2. Capable of thought through logic, ported and financed by MoveOn.org, almost knocked off cludes Berkeley Heights ($12.8), New Providence ($9.6), Another new source of revenue is sibility for 21 counties, 566 municipali- rather than intuitive reasoning the party regulars. The “near fall” stunned the county Scotch Plains ($15.4), Fanwood ($4.5), Mountainside $2,000,000 expected to come from the ties (borough, city, town, township or 3. Evil; doing the Devil’s work Union County Utilities Authority for some village), 616 school districts and 486 4. The entire range of a musical instru- bosses, Sen. Ray Lesniak of Elizabeth and Asm. Joe ($6.9), Garwood ($2.6), Clark ($9.8), Kenilworth ($6.8) reason. local authorities and special districts will ment or voice Cryan of Union. As the story goes, they vowed to never and Cranford ($15.5). Park maintenance costs are expected question why Union County is expensing again have such a close call. The property tax level of the County of Union is to drop from $3,209,731 to $997,018. $50,000 for “contingent?” How has that The bosses were buoyed in their assessments of the reported to be the third highest in the nation. We don’t Debt service is expected to drop from system worked out for property taxpay- political landscape by winning in a comfortable margin in think that having the distinction of being number one in $47,751,045 to $44,920,000 even as in- ers? Malool Praises the November General Election - essentially with one- this category is a good thing. terest rates are rising and the county has John Bury sided loyalty from the Dems of the East (Hillside, Linden, Whoever takes over the county during the Democratic been on a bonding spree. Kenilworth St. Bart’ s 5K Event Elizabeth, Roselle and Union) plus absolute allegiance Primary this spring – MoveOn.org or those currently in Another $50,000 is budgeted for “con- I would like to clarify a misunder- from the island of Plainfield – proving to themselves the power — those of the Western Roundup will still be standing in last week’s paper (The Scotch political impotence of those West of the Parkway. chanting “The Rent’s Too Damn High.” Union County Freeholders: There Is Plains-Fanwood Times). The caption for the photo of the St. Bart’s 5K on the front page stated that the event was part of the Thank You All That Attended, Helped With F.O.P. Benefit No Excuse for Raising Taxes Scotch Plains Wellness Challenge. It was Editor’s Note: This letter was sent to going broke. Haven’t you heard? Miami a great event and I would love to take I wanted to take the opportunity to give Maureen Giannone. Our fundraiser as- one hour. There was even some dancing Deborah Scanlon, chairwoman of the Mayor tried to raise taxes. They had a credit for it, but the fact is that neither I you an up-date as to how the 10th Annual sisted Assemblyman Jon Bramnick’s third on top of tables. For those who attended Union County Freeholders and copied to recall election (last week) and he was nor the Challenge Committee had any Comedy Show to Benefit F.O.P. went annual winter food drive for local pan- – Thank you! For those who could not this newspaper. overwhelmingly removed from office. involvement except to participate with last Saturday evening [March 12.] Every- tries. We asked all supporters of the event attend and made a donation – Thank you! ***** You and the Union County Board of the more than 400 other participants. one was entertained by the talent of four to bring something that evening. Last For anyone wanting to make a donation, I read in the Star-Ledger that you in- Chosen Freeholders should be reducing The event was a fundraiser for St. Bart’ comedians this year. We had 279 people year, we donated 230 pcs. of food prod- it will graciously be accepted and very tend to raise your budget and the corre- the tax burden, not adding to it. These are s Academy and was a huge success. attend the fundraiser. Dana Kline and ucts that were packed into seven cases. much appreciated. In Dr. Kaplan’s speech, sponding tax rate by 6 percent this year. not good times. There is no excuse for Clearly a tremendous amount of hard Cecilia Robertson did a magnificent and This year we donated 12 cases, which he mentioned that he is hoping to make an If this is in fact true, how can you be so this. work was performed by the organizers fantastic job of decorating the room and amounted to 444 pcs. of non-perishable exciting announcement by year’s end. callous and cruel? People are loosing and I congratulate them on a job well the tables. They each have a wealth of food products. We made the donation this Our contribution to research has contrib- Carl Swenson done. their jobs and homes by the droves. Busi- Westfield talent and I’m blessed that they are part of year in the name and memory of BJ uted to the success in the research lab and nesses, states and local governments are the F.O.P. team each year. I Would also Giannone. Thank you. again – Thank you – and again, if you Nancy Malool like to thank Kurt and Fiona Christoffers Not being a party-pooper, but I had to would like to help out this year – Thank Mayor, Scotch Plains for their beautiful and generous donation ask the DJ to stop at 1 a.m. as it was time you! Lines, Poor Customer Service Are St. Pat’s Day Cartoon of floral bouquets that were presented to to just go home and go to bed, especially Gary Whyte F.O.P. moms, siblings, Dr. Kaplan and since we then had to turn the clocks ahead Mountainside Demonstrated at Springfield DMV Tasteless, Uncalled For It’s hard to believe, but service at the sense of human decency and fairness. The “Chug-O-Meter” cartoon in the Is Rep. Lance Kowtowing To The Rabid Tea Partiers? N.J. DMV just keeps getting worse and I tried to deliver a copy of my letter to March 17 edition of The Westfield Leader Within the past couple of months, ing government spying in violation of our can’t afford it; that preventative heath worse. I tried to get my license renewed her in person [March 19], and gave her was totally uncalled for, tasteless, and a Leonard Lance, our Congressman, has constitutional rights; to oppose Internet care for women pays dividends beyond the other night, and arrived shortly after 6 the opportunity to, A) apologize to me, demeaning attempt at ethnic profiling. voted to permit roving wiretaps on United equality, which is aimed at keeping the comprehension for women, their babies p.m. at the Springfield DMV office. The and B) take care of my DMV license All nationalities are capable of “doing States citizens (HR1); to allow health Internet equally available to all users and society in general; that all Americans line was out the door and a police officer renewal without making me wait another their share” when it comes to drinking. care companies to deny coverage to regardless of corporate size; and to re- should have the same access to the Internet was letting in several people at a time. I hour and a half, and she refused. She, The Irish became vulnerable to this slur American citizens with pre-existing con- duce funding the requirement for power regardless of our corporate donations; finally got in, and then made it through again, would not come out of her back because many of the Irish immigrants ditions such as juvenile diabetes; to re- plants, refineries and other major pollut- and that Americans truly want to breathe the document check section around 7 office to speak to me. She sent Officer who came to this country in the mid-to- peal the federal health care provision that ers to disclose emission data to the Envi- clean air and drink water. p.m. I was one seat away from getting my Morton to pick up the letter instead and late nineteenth century opened many bar would allow our children to stay on our ronmental Protection Agency [EPA.] Are the Tea Partiers sucking Leonard paperwork taken care of when the office said that she refused to see me. As I said and restaurant businesses in the large health care coverage until the age of 26; I realize that when we elected Con- Lance into their rabid calls to reduce “manager,” Ms. Catherine Jones, came in my letter to Mr. Martinez, Ms. Jones cities as gathering places. I don’t believe to deny women federal funding for stan- gressman Lance to the House of Repre- short term spending regardless of long- over to those of us who were still waiting needs to be terminated to set an example these same immigrants and their sons dard gynecological exams such as Pap sentatives, we elected a budget conscious term impacts? I sincerely hope not. and said, “You all have to leave and come for all the state employees who think they were drunk when they built the great smears, pregnancy testing and pre-natal person to represent us. I just didn’t realize back tomorrow. It’s 7:30 and we are are better than the people who pay their cathedrals, churches, office buildings and Bill Nierstedt closed. I didn’t see all you people sitting salaries. The DMV needs a real overhaul railroads in this country. care; to deny fast-track court decisions that we voted for someone in favor of Garwood brought by United States citizens alleg- unsanctioned wiretaps, in favor of health here, we can’t take care of you tonight.” and it needs to run like a real business. If It’s high time that people “grow up” care companies denying coverage to his Then, she stormed away and disappeared Ms. Jones worked for me, she would have and stop poking fun, not only at the Irish, Vote For Our Top constituents, against standard health care into a back room. been fired on the spot for being so rude to but other nationalities as well. Better the for women, in favor of government spy- Scutti Family Thanks We were stunned! We were there at a paying customer. Leader had drawn a shamrock and wished Three Candidates ing on American citizens (whatever hap- night because we work during the day. I think some TV news crews and re- everyone a “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!” pened to a smaller, less intrusive govern- The Townspeople We tried to reason with, or even speak to porters need to go to the Springfield DMV Robert Sheehan I just received a note from a Westfield her, but she refused. In typical cowardly any day of the week, document the ridicu- Board of Education candidate suggesting ment?), more supportive of corporate To our friends, neighbors and acquain- Port Royal Island, S.C. Internet use than that of his average con- tances of Westfield — we would like to fashion, she sent the police officer over to lously long lines, and see if they can that I cast just one vote in the upcoming tell us we had to leave. I got everyone’s manage to score an interview or maybe election — How utterly thoughtless and stituent, and in favor of energy compa- extend our heartfelt thanks to all who nies polluting our air and water. have reached out to us during our time of name who had waited and wasted an hour even get some business done with Ms. WF Bd. of Health Sets self-important. While that strategy may and a half, and wrote the attached letter to Catherine Jones. Just make sure you don’t insure his election, it implies that as long Leonard Lance is so kowtowing to the sadness. Your sympathy cards, telephone 2011 Goals, Priorities conservative Republican mantra of cut, calls and words of encouragement have the Raymond Martinez (chief adminis- arrive after 6 p.m. for their 7:30 p.m. as he is elected, it doesn’t matter who fills trator of the DMV) and copied Governor closing time. The Westfield Board of Health met on the remaining seats. cut, cut, that he is beginning to forget that been a wonderful source of comfort to us. while cutting budgets is a noble mission, Thank you. Christie. Ms. Jones should not be an March 7. Several significant actions were But it absolutely does matter, and filled Nancy Gleason undertaken. that the American citizen’s constitutional employee nor a manager in any kind of Westfield those seats will be, so it is incumbent The family of Anthony Scutti public service role, as she clearly has no The board agreed to a number of goals upon each of us to take our responsibility rights outweigh government wiretapping Shaaron M. Scutti without court concurrence; that allowing for the year, in addition to monitoring the seriously, get educated and vote for our Lavallette, N.J. essential functions of the health depart- top three candidates for the BOE. health care companies to deny coverage to those with pre-existing conditions just Editor’s Note: Anthony Scutti, who SP Volunteer Fire Dept. Seeks ment and meeting state mandates. Amy Seid increases the costs for the rest of us when recently passed away, was the retired Important goals include the following: Westfield those individuals need health care and Westfield police chief. increasing communications and provid- Donations to Continue Mission ing more feedback to residents, promot- The Scotch Plains Fire Department, Box 1 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07060. If you ing oral health and oral cancer awareness, with the exception of the career chief, is have already mailed a donation this year, preventing head injuries among the young, comprised of all volunteers. These 30+ thank you for your generosity. We greatly promoting the safe use of fireplaces, wood men and women provide emergency ser- appreciate your support! stoves and fire pits, and expanding our vices to the community 24 hours a day, Regardless of your ability to make a annual health fair and clinical screening seven days a week, 365 days a year. Last contribution know that your friends and services. year we answered over 500 of your calls neighbors of the Scotch Plains Volunteer In addition, the board passed a resolu- for help in all types of weather, under all Fire Department will always answer your tion promoting community water fluori- types of conditions. 911 call for help. dation. This was the third such resolution It is estimated that having a volunteer Dan Biglin in 10 years, and expressed continued hope fire department in town saves Scotch SP Volunteer Firefighters Assoc. that the New Jersey American Water Plains over $4 million a year in salaries Company will provide a standardized and taxes and therefore we rely greatly on therapeutic level of fluoride in our drink- your generosity. We launched our fund Fanwood BOE ing water and not continue to allow the drive in January, but in these tough eco- random fluctuation of fluoride in the nomic times are experiencing very low Candidate Thanks water, which could adversely affect our returns. children. We need your financial support. We PTA’s Effort Also of importance, there were a num- realize that not everyone can afford a The Scotch Plains-Fanwood PTA ber of recent cat and dog bites. An animal donation of $100 at this time, but every Council would like to thank all those who that is not properly licensed and vacci- little bit helps us to continue to provide supported our recent collection of Wish nated against rabies and that is involved our services to you around the clock. If List items to benefit the Ronald McDonald in a biting incident is subject to a quaran- you are in a position to contribute more, House in New Brunswick. Many re- tine of at least 10 days, and the owner is we would be very appreciative. quested food and household items were issued a summons. Recently, one unvac- In January a mailer was sent to each delivered on Saturday, March 19 which cinated pet was euthanized and examined home and business address in town. If will be put to immediate good use thanks for rabies. Residents must license all cats you did not receive a mailer, we are still to the generosity of our neighbors. We and dogs and get them vaccinated against in need of your donation. Please include would also like to thank Meg Kolaya, rabies, due to the presence of rabies in the your name and address with your tax- director of the Scotch Plains Library, and county. deductible donation made payable to Daniel Weiss, director of the Fanwood Information about all of the “SPVFA” and mail it to SPVFA, P.O. Memorial Library, for allowing us to use department’s activities is available on its their facilities as local collections sites website www.westfieldnj.gov/health. The Union County Freeholders for the past several weeks. Thanks also go complete minutes of the March 7 board Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207 out to Dr. Hayes, superintendent of meeting will be posted after review and (908) 527-4000 schools and all our school principals for approval at our April 4 meeting, which George Devanney, Mgr. their support of this community-wide starts at 5:30 p.m. in the municipal build- [email protected] charity project. ing. Deborah Scanlon, Bd. Chair Jeanne Cleary Dr. Lawrence Budnick [email protected] Candidate for Fanwood BOE President, Westfield Board of Health A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, March 24, 2011 Page 5 Westfield BOE Should Get Public Extracurricular Activities Are An Involved Earlier in Budget Process Letters to the Editor Important Part of Education It’s a fascinating time in education. throughout the school year. We are fortu- First and foremost, I have worked hard We also have an extensive sports pro- Many complex issues and entrenched nate to have an abundance of intellectual this year to produce a budget that does not gram for our many young athletes. WHS “ways of doing things” are being reexam- capital in our town, and I think the school cut our academic program. But, I have was recently recognized for having the ined including tenure, collective bargain- board should tap into that capital. I re- Ferraro’s: A Dumpster That Doesn’t also worked hard to produce a budget that “Most Outstanding Athletic Program.” ing, and the very model upon which our cently read that Summit has held public does not cut sports and fine arts activities. We offer 26 varsity athletic teams includ- current education system is based (often workshops about the budget since Janu- Leak Would Seem Sufficient Like most people in our town, I care ing football, baseball, basketball, golf, referred to as the “factory model” – which ary. What a fabulous idea. Why wait to For as long as I can remember, the across the sidewalk, into the street, and about the overall well being of our stu- bowling, tennis, swimming, track, and was established to meet the needs of hear the public’s views and ideas so late short, dark alley that runs from North down the gutter when it rains takes kind- dents and know that being a part of a soccer. In 2009-2010, we won four state industrialization). Times have changed in the game? Let’s start the process ear- Avenue to Ferraro’s kitchen door has ness to new heights. There’s something team, a show, a band or a club gives our championships, five state sectional cham- since the “factory model” was created, lier and be proactive in our data gathering emitted an atrocious smell of rancid grease perverse going on here. A simple phone kids an outlet, a social identity and a pionships, nine Union County champi- and while students still need to learn how and decision-making. and decaying food. And for as long as I call and a dumpster that doesn’t leak sense of community that adds to their onships, 11 Watchung Conference cham- to read, write and calculate, they also I understand what needs to be done and can remember, I’ve wondered how the would seem sufficient. Yet, I swear, that performance in school. They learn many pionships and the Tournament of Cham- need to be critical thinkers, problem solv- I know what’s possible. If elected, I will very nice Ferraro’s get away with it. alley is straight out of old Calcutta and life lessons. They learn cooperation, team- pions for boy’s tennis. ers and advocates for what they believe. use my knowledge and experience to Westfield has been kind to the Ferraros has been for years. work and time management. They learn One area I think we need to support Our challenge is to either change the help Westfield become a district of dis- for many years. to compete, to take risks and to stretch more is extracurricular academic activi- model or integrate these 21st century tinction – one that other districts turn to as themselves. ties. While we financially support the But tolerance of the sludge slick and Bill Reinhardt skills into the existing educational model, a model for financial innovation and teach- brown water that runs down that alley, Over the years, I have worked as a Model UN program, we do not give mon- while also dealing with shrinking bud- ing and learning excellence. Westfield parent volunteer on the many plays and etary support to the Fed Challenge Team, gets. How might we begin to do that? Check out my Facebook page for links musicals my son was involved in. I am or the Merck State Science Day teams. First, we can look to other districts that on technology and education as well as WF BOE Needs to Do Better Job of repeatedly impressed by the sense of com- We do not even have a debate team. I seemingly have been successful in keep- some links about how districts are deal- munity and support the kids show for know how difficult it is to add activities ing their budgets stable, while also utiliz- ing with tightened budgets. Don’t forget each other. Learning to think about the when we must work hard to just preserve ing technology in a purposeful and cohe- to vote on Wednesday, April 27. Informing Residents on Key Issues best outcome for the group is something the ones we currently have, but support- sive way to benefit teachers and students. Rosanne Kurstedt I am really enjoying the process of public comments section of the BOE that will serve them well later in life. ing academic extracurricular activities is We might also consider holding informal Candidate for Westfield BOE running for the school board. I have met meeting that this information be pro- The Westfield schools offer a myriad something we should look at in the future. budget discussions with the public many new people in town and, as I have vided. I hope that we see it this week. of fine arts opportunities for our musi- Eighty percent of the students in the engaged them in conversation about the After all, wouldn’t it be nice to know cians and performers. Starting in fifth high school participate in an extracur- ‘Sober Minds and Creative Solutions’ schools in Westfield, one thing is very where we are spending the extra money? grade we offer All-City Concerts. In the ricular activity. Hundreds of students clear — the current school board can do I would also like to better understand middle schools we have the Broadway participate in the middle and elementary a much better job of letting you know whether we met our revenue goals or not. Singers, Sharps and Flats, Jazz Ensembles, schools. I support this year’s budget be- Needed for School Budgets what is going on. Obviously, there are For the new budget, we should under- Concert Band and Orchestra, as well as, cause it maintains a quality education for While there is clearly an acute aware- Factor Group]. Similar to the discussion many sensitive matters that are addressed stand whether we are stretching ourselves theatrical dramas and musicals. In high our children. For Good Schools, vote for ness in Westfield and in other communi- of the “give backs,” too much confusion. each week and we need to be fair; we to search for new forms of revenue and school we provide numerous opportuni- the budget on Wednesday, April 27 and ties across the nation regarding financing It has been reported that the WEA cannot hear about all of them. The gen- whether we are maximizing the grant ties to sing, dance, play music, act, and vote for Ann Ormsby Cary. If you have for our public schools, I believe we all president rejected calls for a one-year eral theme of the conversations with resi- money that is available. participate in the marching band. I sup- any questions or comments, you can con- need to approach the situation with very salary freeze or reduction in the 3.9 per- dents has been, “I didn’t know.” If I am elected to the board in the April ported the community when the interme- tact me at [email protected]. sober minds and creative solutions. Con- cent yearly salary increase, stating, doing This week, the “I didn’t know” phrase 27 election, I pledge to work with the diate fall dramas were threatened due to Ann Cary, BOE V.P. tinuing the blame game and refusing to so would impact pensions of her mem- was uttered so often, that I felt compelled other board members to improve the level budget cuts and the board made cuts Westfield Candidate for Reelection seriously compromise for the benefit of bership. With residents losing jobs, ex- to write about some of them. of communication and the information elsewhere to preserve these activities. reaching a solution, by all parties, does periencing declines in their own retire- Number 1 comment: “I didn’t know” flow to you. Every presentation that is not in any way move the ball forward. ment accounts, decreasing property val- that the school board only has $800 in its given should be vetted to be certain that Redistricting Must Be Necessary The financial mess we are all in is a result ues, and the likelihood of higher property capital reserve account. Wow, that was we are offering as much information as of many years of poor financial steward- taxes, her explanation to many is harsh. news to me too. How is it possible that a possible so that you become a more edu- ship. Therefore, recognizing this, the re- After all, it is these very residents that are town with a school budget of $90+ mil- cated resident. And Sustainable for Westfield BOE ality is “things” must change and addi- paying the bills. New Jersey is experi- lion does not have anything in a reserve There are some very good candidates Since 1993 the Westfield school sys- districtings in Westfield and will likely tional sacrifices need to be made. Al- encing emigration on a scale never seen account to replace a roof or a boiler or for running this year, but I believe that my tem has undergone tremendous change. see more. What can we do to make these ready, we have seen sacrifices by those before, as a direct result of higher taxes. anything else that might need to be re- professional experiences set me apart from During this period student enrollment transitions easier? First, the re-districting parents of student athletes and extracur- By definition, this means fewer people placed? It sounds like the board is content the field. I bring a unique mix of business increased a staggering 46 percent from must be completely necessary. Second, ricular activities with the installation of are sharing a larger share of the expense. managing the district’s budget this way acumen and marketing that is just what 4,298 to 6,292 while the town’s popula- that necessity must be communicated and an activity fee. A tax increase. We have a Eventually, our financial system will since the story has it, that we have not put we need right now. We need to market tion as a whole increased by less than 3 understood by everyone. I agree with district employee salary being paid by a collapse. Then instead of a salary freeze money into a reserve fund for years. That ourselves (Have you seen the NJ Monthly percent. The school system has strived [board of education member] Mitch 501 – 3 C organization. Our school PTA’s/ or a reduction in pay increases, there will includes all those years where the State of school rankings lately?) and we need to over the years to adapt to these unprec- Slater’s call for greater communication PTO’s do a yeoman’s job of raising, be many losing jobs. I do not want to see New Jersey was providing us over $4 create new forms of revenue to continue edented demographic changes. Additions using Facebook or any other medium to literally thousands of dollars, to help with anyone lose a job! million per year in aid. to improve the education we give to our were built on Washington School in 1993 inform our community of what is hap- expenses that at one time were part of the We have been told that the union has Number 2 comment: “I didn’t know” kids. I do not have all of the answers at the and the high school in 2003, Lincoln pening in the schools. school budget. Maintenance, playgrounds agreed to $210,000 in givebacks. How- that the board and the WEA (Westfield moment, but you can be assured that my School was reopened and made the dis- Third, actively involve parents from and equipment, school supplies, etc. The ever, no specific cuts have been enumer- Education Association) had reached an “devil is in the details” attitude will serve trict-wide kindergarten and still we are each area of the district in the process. fact that this budget has less than $1,000 ated. These givebacks are to be earmarked agreement for the WEA members to give you well. growing. Fourth, districts should be contiguous in the capital fund is irresponsible to to help hire teachers in elementary schools back to the district roughly $210,000. Stay on top of the campaign by visiting Westfield’s schools are growing rap- and compact moving as few students as many. Our district buildings are old and and new counselors in intermediate Those funds are earmarked for salaries. my Facebook page. You can also e-mail idly precisely because we are among the possible. And finally, the new district in constant need of maintenance and in schools. If, when these cuts are identi- During the initial budget presentation last me at [email protected] to let best of the best in the state. Each elemen- lines should be sustainable; able to ac- some cases major repair. To either post- fied, they are one-time cuts, where will week, the public was only told about the me know what you are thinking. tary school has tapped into their neigh- commodate foreseeable demographic pone these repairs or to suggest we go to the money come from the following years money, but not what the teachers gave Mark Friedman borhood community. I believe our par- changes over a period of years. the public every time for a bond, is poor to cover the cost of the new hires? Fur- back, and certainly not what portion of Westfield BOE candidate ents are the most passionate, active and If elected, these will be among my planning. Is outsourcing BOE expenses ther, this proclamation seems to fly in the the 3.9 percent, three-year annual in- dedicated group in New Jersey; support- criteria for reviewing any future call to the new paradigm? Our programs in the face of a BOE release dated March 3,2011, crease, that this amount represented. It ing their teachers and schools and it shows redistrict a neighborhood. Please feel free schools are being “crowded” out by higher stating unequivocally, under the head- would seem that if this were such an all the way through to the high school. to contact me at and higher employee costs. I don’t blame ing: “What is NOT possible?” Answer: important part of the new budget (and it Westfield delivers educational excellence [email protected] or on the employees or the Union. This result Reinstatement of staff or programs that certainly was made out to be), then we on a daily basis. This passion and dedica- Facebook. clearly rests with the BOE’s past and have been cut in the past few years. While would have heard the details of what the tion is also why redistricting is a difficult WEA gave back. We should appreciate and traumatic experience for us all. Karym Hoens present, and we the residents who con- the wording may be different, the result is Candidate for Westfield BOE tinually pass the budgets. the same, an increase in expenses. what was done, but I for one, would like Redistricting will never solve the prob- I read recently that our cost per pupil is I believe that there are no problems, to know much more about the details. lem of growth, but it can be a useful tool $11,601 (Emphasis, April 2010). If we only solutions. As a community working Number 3 comment: “I don’t know” for rebalancing enrollment when the SEE MORE LETTERS divide the number of students reported together with all involved parties, we can what the differences are between this physical space can no longer accommo- for Westfield Public Schools, February find the solutions through compromise new budget and what we actually spent date the needs. I have seen many re- PAGE 17 28,2011, by the $92.9-million proposed and sacrifice, halting the hemorrhage on last year at a detailed level. The same can budget, we get a figure of over $14,600. our financial situation. be said for the revenue side of the ledger. I don’t know if this is a good number or The budget presentation did not show a Keith Hertell comparison of last year actuals vs. the not. It must be compared to other cost per Westfield pupil figures withinIT our DFG [District FEELS proposedSO budget. I suggested, during the
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Page 6 Thursday, March 24, 2011 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Applications Are Available POLICE BLOTTER For Rotary Club Grants Westfield was missing. WESTFIELD – Darielle Walsh, one-page application form to receive Monday, March 14, a resident of the 300 Wednesday, March 16, Shaleke Fisher, Rotary Club of Westfield Commu- a clear understanding of the way in block of First Street reported a trailer win- 33, of Plainfield was arrested and charged nity Service Grants chairwoman, has which the funds are to be used. dow and a garage window were damaged with eluding police after an officer tried to announced that Rotary grant applica- Non-profit organizations may re- through criminal mischief. A rock was thrown stop him for a motor vehicle violation on at each of the windows, causing them to South Avenue at approximately 2:30 a.m. tions are now available to meet the ceive a copy of the official applica- crack. The total value of the damage was According to police, the suspect refused to Friday, April 15 deadline. tion directly from the Rotary website, unknown. Additionally, a set of forklift keys pull over, fled at a high rate of speed and Organizations requesting a 2011 westfieldtoday.com/Rotary. with an approximate value of $20 was re- swiped a utility pole. He then exited his Westfield Rotary Club Community Rotary is a service organization moved from a forklift on the same property. vehicle and attempted to run into his resi- Service Grant must complete and comprised of business and profes- Tuesday, March 15, Marvin Wiggins, 50, dence, at which time he was apprehended of Colonia was arrested at the Middlesex and placed under arrest without further inci- submit the official application form sional women and men who either County jail on outstanding criminal warrants dent. He was transported to police headquar- in order to be considered. The Rotary live or work in or near Westfield. The from Westfield, for $1,000, and Kenilworth, ters, processed and turned over to the Union Club, in accordance with its goal of Rotary Club of Westfield meets ev- for $500. Wiggins was transported to Westfield County jail for failure to post bail. community service, is most inter- ery Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. for lunch at police headquarters, processed and held in Wednesday, March 16, a resident of Birch ested in providing grants for pro- the Westfield Area “Y,” located at lieu of bail. Street reported that the IRS informed her that Tuesday, March 15, Ryan Might, 19, of someone filed an income tax return for her grams and projects that directly serve 220 Clark Street in Westfield. Westfield was arrested on an outstanding deceased husband. people in the community. No appli- Guests are welcome at any of the Holmdel warrant for $156 after responding Thursday, March 17, Aminah Dupree, 27, cations for capital improvements or club’s weekly meetings. For infor- to Westfield police headquarters. He was of Newark was arrested after a motor vehicle operating funds will be considered. mation, e-mail STANDOUT IN SCOUTING…Assistant Scoutmaster Tim Avis received one of processed and released upon posting bail. stop on Front Street on an outstanding $500 As part of the decision process, the [email protected] or visit Wednesday, March 16, Lewis Richardson, Watchung warrant. She was transported to Boy Scouting’s highest honors, The Silver Beaver Award, on February 28. An 47, of Newark was arrested on multiple war- police headquarters, processed and released Grants Committee reviews the simple westfieldtoday.com/Rotary. Eagle Scout, Mr. Avis served as Scoutmaster from 1989 to 1994 of Boy Scouts of rants pursuant to a motor vehicle stop on after posting bail. America Troop No. 73 in Westfield, sponsored by the Holy Trinity Roman South Avenue near Sussex Street. The war- Thursday, March 17, a resident of Raritan Catholic Church. He still attends most scout meetings, goes on many of the trips rants were from Watchung, for $356; South Road reported that someone made multiple Toastmasters Seeks Alumni and always joins and helps lead the Troop No. 73 Treks in the summer, as well as Plainfield, for $289; Plainfield, for $1,685; charges on his credit card without his autho- being active in various other scouting capacities. Green Brook, for $250, and Piscataway, for rization. $1,039. He was processed, unable to post Thursday, March 17, a business owner on For 50th-Year Celebration bail and turned over to the Plainfield Police Route 22 reported that, sometime overnight, Department. someone damaged a dumpster on his prop- WESTFIELD – Toastmasters of has helped her both personally and Trinity Episcopal Day School Wednesday, March 16, a male suspect and erty. Westfield, an area public-speaking professionally. She is the recipient of a female suspect entered a business on Elm Saturday, March 19, a patron of a Park club, is looking for former members the Distinguished Toastmaster award, Street and attempted to cash a fraudulent Avenue store reported that someone dam- To Conduct Enrichment Fair check in the amount of $2,150, according to aged the taillight of her motor vehicle, which to help celebrate the organization’s the organization’s highest level of police. When their request was denied, the was parked in the parking lot. 50th anniversary. achievement. pair left the scene. Saturday, March 19, Marc Purnell, 38, of Chartered on March 4, 1961, the “I remember how supportive the CRANFORD – The Trinity Epis- joyable while learning based,” said Thursday, March 17, Michael O’Connell, Edison was arrested and charged with pos- club will celebrate its milestone with club was for me when my father copal Day School (TEDS) will spon- Korine Dankowski, director. Staff will 76, of Scotch Plains was arrested and charged session of suspected marijuana after a motor with driving while intoxicated (DWI) during vehicle stop on Rahway Road, at which time a dinner on Friday, April 29, at The died,” recalled Ms. Kujawski. “Later, sor an Enrichment and Awareness be available to conduct tours of the the investigation of a hit-and-run incident. the officer discovered the suspected mari- Westwood in Garwood. All former I gave a speech about him, and there Fair this Saturday, March 26, from 10 school and to answer any questions. Police responded to the area of West North juana in his possession, according to police. members are invited to attend. Former wasn’t a dry eye in the audience. I a.m. to 2 p.m. at 205 North Avenue, There are multiple flexible sched- Avenue and Prospect Street after receiving a He was transported to police headquarters, members may contact the club by also love helping the new members East, in Cranford. The entrance is on ules available including half- and full- report of a motorist having struck a pedestrian processed and released. sending a message with an updated e- get on their feet and help them im- Hamilton Avenue. day programs that span two to five and then fleeing the scene. The victim, a 23- Saturday, March 19, Lamar Parkes, 19, of year-old Westfield man, was found lying in Scotch Plains was arrested and charged with mail address, telephone number and prove.” This event will feature free activi- days per week. A Kindergarten Wrap- the westbound lane of traffic with moderate possession of drug paraphernalia after a motor mailing address to: toastmastersof She added that, through her Toast- ties for the whole family. Crafts, ka- Around program, which comple- injuries, authorities said. Police obtained a vehicle stop on Park Avenue. He was trans- [email protected]. masters’ training and experience, she rate, yoga, music and the Fun Bus ments the kindergarten offered in the description of the suspect vehicle, and subse- ported to police headquarters, processed and Lisa Panarello, who rose from has achieved her goal of teaching will be available for children. Visi- public schools, is another option. quently stopped O’Connell after an officer released. among 30,000 international contes- speech at a local university. tors also will have the opportunity to Early dropoff beginning at 7 a.m. and observed his vehicle on Brightwood Avenue Mountainside near Brown Avenue. Further investigation led Tuesday, March 8, Steven Williams, 43, tants to become a finalist in Toast- Noel Crawford of Mountainside, a talk to a firefighter, see a K-9 rescue late pickup until 6 p.m. accommo- to his arrest. O’Connell was transported to of Plainfield was arrested on charges of theft masters’ 2010 World Champion member for 17 years, said where she dog and have adventures with Span- dates the demands of working fami- Westfield police headquarters, processed and of movable property and criminal trespass- Speaker Contest, will be the keynote once was afraid of speaking in front ish and sign language. Experts will lies. Homework supervision and tu- held pending release the following morning. ing after police responded to a report of a speaker at the dinner. of a group, she can now speak with- answer questions on nutrition, food toring can be arranged for ages 7 to In addition to the DWI charge, he was issued suspicious motor vehicle parked behind a Sue Kujawski of Westfield, a mem- out fear at a moment’s notice. “Cour- allergies and pediatric diabetes. 13. TEDS’ Summer Camp offers di- multiple motor vehicle summonses in con- Route 22 business. According to police, when nection with the incident. The victim was the officer approached Williams’ truck, which ber for 22 years, said Toastmasters age, commitment, confidence and Screening for visual acuity and speech verse weekly programs from July 5 transported to University Hospital in Newark had the license plates covered in plastic bags, communication have proven to be development will be available as well. to August 26. for treatment. an individual described as heavyset, approxi- Job Search Strategies the building blocks that keep me com- TEDS serves children ages 2½ to For more information about the Friday, March 18, a resident of the 200 mately six feet tall and wearing a black ing back to Toastmasters of 13. “Our goal is to provide an age- Enrichment and Awareness Fair or block of Sylvania Place reported that some- hoodie and jeans ran away. Westfield,” she said. appropriate educational environment TEDS, call (908) 276-2881 or email one unknown entered a neighbor’s home via When the officer questioned Stevens, he To Be Meeting Topic an open rear-yard door. The suspect was said the individual who ran away had told SCOTCH PLAINS – The Scotch Toastmasters of Westfield meets through activity centers that are en- [email protected]. gone upon arrival by police and nothing was him he could have the scrap metal that was Plains Public Library’s Career Net- on the first, second and fourth Thurs- reported missing from the home. behind the building, some of which was working Group will present “The days of each month from 7:45 to 9:30 Saturday, March 19, a resident of the 200 already in the back of his truck, police said. p.m. at Sunrise of Westfield, located Library Friends to Accept block of Sinclair Place reported that some- Further investigation revealed he did not Journey to Re-employment” on Mon- one unknown tore down an American flag have permission to take the metal. He was day, March 28, at 7 p.m. at 240 Springfield Avenue in and holding bracket, which had been affixed transported to police headquarters, processed Networking Group alumna Rosaria Westfield. For further information, to the victim’s home. and released. Carr will be the featured speaker, de- visit toastmastersofwestfield.com or Donations For Book Sale Saturday, March 19, a resident of the 200 Wednesday, March 9, an employee at a scribing how she rode the job search call Angela Chester at (908) 358- block of Sinclair Place reported that some- Glen Road business reported that when he WESTFIELD – Plans are under- damaged, stained or mildewed one unknown damaged his fence during the returned to his motor vehicle after work, the “roller coaster” for 13 months before 6821. way for the Friends of the Westfield For more information about the books, will not be accepted. Dona- night. right rear brake lens was smashed and the landing her current job. She will focus Memorial Library’s 38th Annual tions of books are tax-deductible. Saturday, March 19, during the evening right front passenger side door had two dents on what activities worked, which did 50th-anniversary celebration, contact Book Sale. The Friends will accept someone damaged the roof of a motor ve- in it. According to police, the victim had a the organization at toastmastersof The sale will begin on Wednes- not and how she overcame challenges. book donations beginning on Thurs- day, April 6, with a Friends mem- hicle that was parked in the driveway of a dispute with his girlfriend the day before and Ms. Carr will share how her per- [email protected]. residence on the 200 block of Sinclair Place. police were called to his Roselle residence. day and Friday, March 31 and April bers-only sale from 9 a.m. to noon. Monday, March 21, Jasen A. Rao, 27, of The victim feels the damage to his vehicle spective as a project manager helped 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Satur- Memberships will be available at Linden was arrested on the 1500 block of could be retaliation from her. her stay focused and organized, and day, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the door. Lamberts Mill Road and charged with DWI. Saturday, March 12, Sarah F. Zadoyko, show attendees how she continues to at the library. The library is located The sale dates for the public are During the course of the investigation, a 24, of Union was arrested following a motor manage her career and prepare for at 550 East Broad Street in Westfield. as follows: Wednesday, April 6, switchblade knife was found in the suspect’s vehicle stop on Route 22 for allegedly driv- the next career change. pocket, according to police, and he addition- ing with a suspended license. She was pro- The Friends will accept adult and from 2 to 8 p.m.; Thursday, April 7, ally was charged with possession of a pro- cessed and released at the scene. This program is free and open to all. children’s hardcover and paperback and Friday, April 8, from 10 a.m. to hibited weapon. Rao was transported to Tuesday, March 15, an officer responded The Scotch Plains Public Library is books, CDs, DVDs, videos and re- 8 p.m. A half-price sale will be held Westfield police headquarters, processed and to the corporate offices of a restaurant chain located at 1927 Bartle Avenue. To reg- corded books. Donations need to be on April 8. Bag Day will take place released to a responsible adult with pending on a report of harassing phone calls. Accord- ister, visit scotlib.org and click on in resalable condition. Records, en- on Saturday, April 9, from 9:30 a.m. court dates in Superior Court and Westfield ing to police, approximately 20 phone calls Events, call (908) 322-5007, extension Municipal Court. were received by the secretary from an indi- cyclopedias, magazines, textbooks, to 1 p.m. On that day, customers Monday, March 21, Christian J. Janampa, vidual stating that his watch was stolen at one no. 204, or e-mail [email protected]. condensed books, out-of-date will be able to buy a bag and fill it 31, of Elizabeth was arrested during a traffic of the chain’s restaurants in Warren. Interested individuals may connect travel, health or business books, or up with books for $5. stop in the area of West North Avenue and When the individual was advised that the with the library’s Career Networking Crossway Place on an outstanding Elizabeth company did not have a restaurant located in Group on Linked In, Career Net- traffic warrant for $133. He was transported Warren, the suspect threatened the secretary, to Westfield police headquarters, processed stating he would “beat the crap out of you” working Group at SPPL. Area Psychotherapist Offers and released on his own recognizance by the and “yes, I am threatening you,” police said. Elizabeth Police Department. When police contacted the suspect, he stated Mary Courtney Monday, March 21, police received reports that his watch was stolen approximately two Hope In Defeating Depression regarding three motor vehicles that were tar- years ago from another restaurant chain on 3EE ME FOR YOUR geted for criminal mischief while parked in a Route 22 in Warren, authorities reported. He Celtic Concert on Tap AREA – New Jersey born and lems). Defeating depression brings lot on the 300 block of Clark Street. The was advised to cease contact with the busi- raised psychotherapist, Leo J. much needed relief to those in need criminal mischief, in which someone used ness and to report the incident to police in the At Fanwood Library sharp objects to destroy three tires, took place jurisdiction in which the incident allegedly ).352!.#% Battenhausen, a Licensed Clinical of “what to do” when all else has on March 17 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. occurred. FANWOOD – Mary Courtney and Social Worker, Licensed Alcohol and failed. and 3 p.m. Fanwood !.$ &).!.#)!, Morningstar will return to the Drug Counselor, Certified School Using compassion, genuineness, Scotch Plains Monday, March 14, Jose Leiva, 31, of Fanwood Memorial Library on Social Worker and Certified Rela- humor and intelligence, Mr. Monday, March 14, Bryant Jacobs, 20, of Plainfield was arrested after a motor vehicle Wednesday, March 30, at 7:30 p.m. tionship Specialist, has authored a Plainfield was arrested and charged with stop on South Avenue on outstanding war- Battenhausen has penned a source of possession of suspected marijuana after a rants out of Carlstadt and Mountainside. He 2%6)%7 to perform a free Celtic concert. ground-breaking book titled “Defeat- relief long needed in the field of treat- motor vehicle stop on Park Avenue, at which was transported to police headquarters, pro- This New York-based band fea- ing Depression: The Calm and Sense ing depression. Written with the time the officer discovered that Jacobs had cessed and released after posting bail. tures Mary Courtney on lead vocals, Way To Finding Happiness and Sat- warmth of being in the author’s “liv- the suspected marijuana in his possession, Wednesday, March 16, Sonya Hull, 36, of 4OGETHER WELL PRIORITIZE YOUR guitar and bodhran (Irish hand-held isfaction,” published by New Hori- ing room,” readers will feel under- according to police. He was transported to Plainfield was arrested on an outstanding NEEDS AND HELP YOU PLAN YOUR drum), Bernadette Fee on fiddle and zon Press Books. police headquarters, processed and released. Union warrant after a motor vehicle stop on stood, appreciated, validated and Tuesday, March 15, a student at a Plainfield Terrill Road. She was transported to police FINANCIAL FUTURE 3CHEDULE YOUR Donie Ryan on the tenor banjo. Mr. Battenhausen has incorporated empowered to take on life with re- FREE REVIEW TODAY Avenue school reported that someone re- headquarters, processed and released after Mary Courtney hails from a large his 20 years of experience treating plenished strength, insight and deter- moved cash from her pocketbook, which she posting bail. musical family from Castlegregory, individuals, couples, families and mination. had left in a classroom. Thursday, March 17, a resident of the 10 County Kerry, Ireland. She formed the adolescents to pen a realistic, user- Book signings are scheduled at the Tuesday, March 15, a student at the Union block of LaGrande Avenue reported that, County Vocational-Technical Schools re- sometime overnight, someone scribbled on band in 1982 in the Bronx, and over the friendly and practical guide to feel- Linden Public Library on April 14, ported that he has received multiple harass- her garbage can with a black magic marker. years they have recorded several al- ing better about relationships, self, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. and at the Zion ing phone calls from a former friend who Thursday, March 17, Rudolph Leo, 34, of bums and played on the local and United family and employment, among other Lutheran Church in Rahway on May yells at him over the phone. Plainfield was arrested on an outstanding States festival circuits. Those who have typical “life distractions” that cause 12, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, the owner of a Beryl- warrant out of Plainfield after police re- influenced their music include The many to feel “stuck,” unhappy, dis- Further book signings and author/ lium Road business reported that a customer sponded to a report of a suspicious person on placed an order online in the amount of $1,400 Martine Avenue. He was transported to po- Christine Cosenza, Agent Bothy Band, Solas, Lunasa and Christy satisfied and alone. book information can be found on and paid for it with a fraudulent credit card. lice headquarters, processed and turned over 2 Elm Street Moore, among others. Fifty-four million people in the Mr. Battenhausen’s website/blog at Tuesday, March 15, a resident of Westfield to the Plainfield Police Department. Westfield, NJ 07090 The Fanwood Memorial Library is United States suffer from depres- www.DefeatingDepression.net or Road reported that someone withdrew ap- Thursday, March 17, a resident of the 10 Bus: 908-233-9100 located at North Avenue and Tillotson sion, and recent studies predict that www.PersonalCounselingServices.net. proximately $1,000 from his bank account block of Oakwood Court reported that, some- www.christinecosenza.net Road. To reserve a seat for this pro- by 2020, depression will be the sec- without his authorization. According to po- time overnight, someone entered his unlocked lice, he later discovered that his ATM card motor vehicle while it was parked in the gram, call (908) 322-6400. ond most common health problem Paid Bulletin Board street and removed an undetermined amount The Friends of the Fanwood Memo- diagnosed (following heart prob- goleader.com/express Supper at All Saints’ of cash. rial Library, a non-profit organization Friday, March 18, a resident of the 100 that supports programs and services of To Feature Authors block of Russell Road reported that someone the library, is providing funding for this entered his unlocked motor vehicle while it Man Convicted of Eluding SCOTCH PLAINS – “Cooking was parked in the street and removed an event. New members are always wel- with the Bible” authors Anthony undetermined amount of cash. come. For more information on the Chiffolo and Rayner Hesse will visit Detective Eugene Chin of the Fanwood #ONSULT YOUR TAX OR LEGAL ADVISOR FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE Friends group, contact Carol Campell Police, Additional Charges the All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Police Department reminds residents to al- 3TATE &ARM