BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!

Ad Populos, Non Aditus, Pervenimus

Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890 (908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, January 1, 2009 OUR 119th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 01-2009 Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] SIXTY CENTS

2008 Year In Review: Part 2 – June to December goleader.com/archives Lance Defeats Stender; Assemblyman Neil Cohen Arrested; SP Apartment Fire Kills One Worker, Injures Two; Chippery Closes JUNE to expand its business by turning the cess, as the three bills that the NJEA Westfield 12,000 square feet of unused space in targeted during the protests were dis- The planning board unanimously the basement into a banquet hall. carded. The bill package that was passed approved a parking variance for Garwood rose the age of retirement from 60 to 62 Xocolatz’s new location at 235 Elmer The borough council approved a re- for future pension-fund members and Street. The variance consent was given duction in the mayor’s salary from eliminated one paid holiday, Lincoln’s with the conditions that the restaurant $2,400 to $1,800, and council salaries birthday, from the state government have a maximum seating of 60 and from $2,000 to $1,500 each. public employees’ working year as of valet parking available at peak times. The board of education approved the 2011. The board of education announced appointment of Mark Resnick as school JULY the appointment of Scott White as di- business administrator on an interim Westfield rector of guidance at Westfield High basis, replacing Julia DePinto-Perez, The town council approved salaries School (WHS) at a salary of $129,667, who resigned. for library, police and salaried non-union beginning August 11. He replaced Union County employees, as well as for the mayor and Steven Maczynski, who moved out of The board of chosen freeholders ap- council. Non-union full-time employ- state. proved the acquisition of the 4,600- ees saw a 3.75 percent increase in pay; The board of education elevated Anita square-foot American-Hungarian Citi- appointed part-time employees, includ- O’Neal from interim status to perma- zens Club and its grounds in Clark for ing the planning board, board of adjust- ment and municipal attorneys, prosecu- tor and defender, were given a 3 percent pay hike; the police and fire chiefs, along with both deputy fire chiefs, saw a 4 percent pay increase. Meanwhile, the library’s board of trustees approved salaries of $89,900 for the library director and $70,500 for the assistant library director. Both rep- resented 4 percent increases from 2007. The Westfield Farmers’ Market opened July 5 with less produce than usual after the largest vendor – Hackettstown-based Donaldson Farms – was absent from the marketplace due to a parking issue that escalated in the Westfield Area Chamber Benjamin B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader of Commerce, which effectively banned September 4, 2008 – CHILDHOOD CENTER OF ATTENTION...Students, parents and town officials gather outside the one of Donaldson’s employees. doors of Lincoln School, the district’s new early childhood education center. Featuring morning and afternoon sessions, the A group of Westfield residents filed a school will house all kindergarten classes and serve those with special needs. lawsuit against the town’s planning board and a resident, seeking a reversal of the $100,000 bail. He is the son of the dollars was still needed in fundraising. Parenti, the borough’s former police Greg Ryan for The Westfield Leader board’s approval to subdivide and create chapel’s Minister Gregg Hagg. The Cheeburger Cheeburger restau- chief, proposed legislation to change June 12, 2008 – READY FOR THE HEAT WAVE...Workers put the final touches two new building lots on Canterbury Garwood rant, located in the North Avenue Train how the revenue stream in New Jersey on the Westfield Memorial Pool Complex before filling it with water. After a one- Lane off of Wychwood Road. One of the The board of education voted to Station Plaza, closed suddenly. The municipal courts is calculated. He said week postponement, the pool was ready for a mid-June opening. Extreme weather lots would feature a new home in front of switch from Horizon to the state’s health 1950’s diner-themed restaurant had revenue is currently divided 50 percent conditions caused the opening date to be pushed back. See pool photographs at the smaller of two gatehouses at the East benefits plan for its employees to avoid operated in that location since Decem- to towns and 50 percent to county gov- goleader.com/photos. Broad Street entrance to Wychwood. a 52 percent hike in the district’s health ber 2004. ernment. Mr. Parenti proposed 80 per- Grand Marshal Alfred Riker of plan premium. nent assistant superintendent for cur- $625,000. Westfield, the chaplain of the Martin Borough council members an- riculum and instruction, agreeing on a The Berkeley Aquatic Club signed Wallberg Post of the American Legion, nounced the borough would receive two-year contract at a yearly salary of an agreement with the Union County passed away on July 21. Mr. Riker gave $250,000 in extraordinary aid to help $145,000. Improvement Authority (UCIA) to the opening prayer and benediction at further decrease the tax levy. Borough Scotch Plains purchase four acres of land for $1.6 the 2003 Memorial Day ceremony, Council President Kathleen Villaggio Officials from both Union County million at Runnells Specialized Hos- which was held indoors. Mr. Riker also said the additional aid, combined with and Scotch Plains gathered as youth pital in Berkeley Heights. was slated to be the 2009 parade’s Grand $251,550 in Consolidated Municipal baseball players from the township Union County Republican Party Marshal. Property Tax Relief Aid and budget played the first game under the lights members re-elected Phil Morin of Scotch Plains cuts, would result in an average tax at the renovated Union County Voca- Cranford to a third, two-year term. The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board increase for municipal services of $191 tional-Technical Schools field on Area of Education (BOE) eliminated a full- per home assessed at $100,000, instead Raritan Road. State Senator Leonard Lance (LD- time assistant principal position at of $518. Township council members ap- 23, Clinton) won a seven-candidate Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School. The board of education voted to for- proved an ordinance to create a down- Republican primary to earn the right to Democrat Richard Samuel dropped mally approve the contract of Teresa town Special Improvement District face Democratic State Assemblywoman out of the fall campaign for township Quigley as the borough’s new superin- by a 3-1-1 vote following a four-and- Linda Stender (LD-22, Fanwood) in council. Mr. Samuel was set to oppose tendent of schools. Ms. Quigley had a-half-hour public hearing. the Seventh District Congressional race Republican Mary DePaola for the town- served as acting superintendent since Fanwood to succeed retiring Rep. Mike Ferguson ship council. Township Democrats se- May 2007, after former superintendent The borough sent out layoff notices (R-New Providence). lected attorney Theresa Mullen to re- Wilfred Murphy became ill. John Maguire for The Westfield Leader to its 66 municipal employees. Mayor Former Union County Freeholder and place Mr. Samuel on the party’s No- The planning board received resi- November 6, 2008 – OFF TO D.C...Leonard Lance won the election for Congress Colleen Mahr blamed the action on a ex-Plainfield councilman Adrian Mapp vember ticket. dents’ input on the borough’s master in New Jersey’s Seventh District representing the region. Mr. Lance received 51 30-percent hike in pension costs, rising defeated incumbent Third Ward Coun- The township council approved a one- plan. When asked what type of devel- percent of the vote. Linda Stender received 42 percent, and Michael Hsing received fuel and utility costs, and a cut in state- cilman Don Davis in the June 3 Demo- year extension to the Scotch Plains Po- opment they would like to see along 6 percent. Rep. Mike Ferguson is pictured at left, and Sen. Tom Kean, Jr., right. aid figures. In the end, one borough cratic primary, while his running-mate, lice Benevolent Association’s existing North and South Avenues, residents’ police officer was laid off. Annie McWilliams, the daughter of the pact, which was set to expire at the end suggestions included flat-style apart- Mountainside late former mayor Al McWilliams, de- of this year. The average salary in- ments, as well as community and recre- Arthur Fried died at the age of 95. cent of the revenue go to municipalities Borough council members adopted feated Council President Harold Gibson crease for police officers is 3.52 per- ation facilities such as a borough swim- Mr. Fried was the Democratic Party’s and 20 percent to counties. an ordinance to regulate the use of for an at-large council seat. Both were cent. ming pool. candidate for Westfield mayor in 1960 Mountainside Portable Containerized Property Stor- victorious in the November General Superintendent of Schools Margaret Union County and, later, was elected a Union County Mayor Robert Viglianti took offense age Facilities (PCPSF), which are usu- Election. Hayes was among 25 members of the The $4.3-million renovation of the freeholder. He also served on the to a petition filed in opposition to the ally in place during construction. The Rahway Business Administrator Pe- National Superintendents Roundtable Garden State Parkway exit 135 in Clark Westfield zoning board of adjustment. borough’s first-annual Volunteer Ap- ordinance prohibits residents from leav- ter Pelissier resigned from the Board of who traveled to China on June 23 was completed. Four traffic lights were Scotch Plains preciation Day, planned for August 16 ing PCPSFs in their driveways for longer Commissioners of the Rahway Valley through July 1 to learn about the lan- added to ease confusion and regulate Michael Capabianco was hired as at the community pool. One-hundred- than 30 days. Sewerage Authority (RVSA). In 2007, guage, history and culture of one of the traffic flow, as well as a connector road the new township manager replacing and-eleven individuals who objected to The board of education approved the Mr. Pelissier, who also serves as a con- world’s oldest civilizations. for drivers through the middle of the Tom Atkins, who retired after 28 years. the borough closing the pool signed the appointment of Robert Phillips as prin- sultant to the Rahway redevelopment In the wake of increased enrollment circle itself. The northbound exit ramps Mr. Capabianco had been the shared petition. “I am very upset that a small cipal of Deerfield School. Mr. Phillips agency, was ordered to repay $330,000 at Terrill Middle School, the school were widened, and line striping was services coordinator for the Hunterdon group of people led this drive to dis- replaced Jeanette Baubles, who took in pension payments after state offi- district brought in four modular trailers added to control lanes. County Chamber of Commerce and honor what was intended to be a small the place of former Chief School Ad- cials had discovered he retired to a 23- to serve as classrooms for the 2008- After allegations that pornographic was previously a borough manager for ‘thank you’ to those who volunteer their ministrator Richard O’Malley. acre Montana ranch, but was receiving 2009 school year. images of children were found on his two years in Folcroft, Pa. time for the community,” Mayor The borough council adopted a $10.5- almost the same income as a consultant Fanwood legislative office computer, Democratic Police said someone stole 15 to 20 Viglianti responded. million municipal budget, of which to the redevelopment agency. The Fanwood Republican Commit- Assemblyman Neil Cohen (LD-20, laptop computers from Park Middle Timothy Black, a 16-year-old nearly $6.5 million will be raised The New Jersey Education Associa- tee named Mike Szuch to replace Joel Union) resigned from office. Cohen School overnight. School Detective Lieu- Mountainside driver, died from inju- through local property taxes, an in- tion (NJEA) launched a statewide pro- Stroz on the fall ticket to run for was indicted in December. tenant Brian Donnelly said no sensitive ries sustained in a one-car accident on crease of roughly $800,000 from 2007. test to oppose three bills that would Fanwood Borough Council. He joined The board of chosen freeholders ap- material or important personal informa- Route 22 in Springfield. The borough’s planning board unani- have changed the formula used to cal- Robert Manduca in a race against proved a $437.8-million budget by an tion was contained on the laptops. Two men who were drag racing on mously denied Arirang Hibachi culate pensions for certain public- Democrats Joan Wheeler, an incum- 8-0 tally, following a public hearing. Fanwood Route 22 in Mountainside in 2007 – Steakhouse and Sushi Bar’s submittal school employees. bent, and newcomer Russell Huegel. The budget is up $2.3 million over Fanwood Councilman Anthony CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 for a use variance. The restaurant wanted The protests largely ended in suc- The borough council approved an 2007, with county taxes increasing by ordinance to establish the position of $13 million. police dispatcher. Councilwoman Area Katherine Mitchell said Fanwood and The State Senate approved, by a tally Kenilworth were the only two Union of 21-16, the biggest overhaul of the County municipalities to not have dis- state’s affordable-housing regulations patchers. in 20 years. The legislation, A-500, Scotch Plains developer Paul passed in a 44-34-2 Assembly vote. DiFrancesco filed a lawsuit in State Major changes in the bill include: the Superior Court in Elizabeth against the elimination of Regional Contribution Fanwood planning and zoning board of Agreements (RCA’s); a 2.5 percent non- adjustment for denying his site plan residential development fee to fund application to construct a house fronting construction and renovation, and re- onto the dead-end street of St. John’s vised growth-share rules stipulating one Place behind an existing home that affordable-housing unit to be con- fronts onto Woodland Avenue. structed for every four market-rate units The borough council introduced an and for every 16 jobs created. amended budget that calls for a 5.46 U.S. District Judge William Martini percent, or $1,252,498, hike in overall sentenced former State Senator and taxes, including county, school and Newark Mayor Sharpe James to 27 municipal figures. A total of $5.3 mil- months in prison. James was also fined Katherine Vowell for The Westfield Leader lion will be raised in municipal taxes, $100,000. In a highly publicized trial, a June 5, 2008 – HEROES AMONG US…Anne Bristow gives a heartfelt thank you an increase of $727,003, or 15.9 per- jury convicted James of fraud and con- to Dr. Thomas Streko and Dr. Malcolm Schwartz for saving the life of her son, cent, over 2007. spiracy. Michael Fitzhenry. The two doctors were presented with Westfield Civic Awards Mountainside AUGUST at a council meeting earlier this year. She also took the opportunity to thank the Michael Pollack for The Westfield Leader community for its support throughout the past four months. November 13, 2008 – SHARED SERVICES...The Veterans Day ceremony in Jason Hagg of Piscataway, the 35- Westfield Scotch Plains received an assist from Westfield Bellmaster John Panosh as he year-old youth director at Mountainside The Westfield Historical Society told PAGE INDEX enlisted help from the DPW to cart over the town bell to ring in the unveiling of Gospel Chapel, was arrested and the town council that the restoration of Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 7 Classifieds .... 12 the Scotch Plains Korean War Memorial Clock. Pictured is Scotch Plains resident charged with having a relationship with the 1870’s Italianate-style Reeve House Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 12 A&E ...... 13-14 and Korean War veteran Don Wussler (right) unveiling the clock financed by a 16-year-old youth group member. and construction of a carriage house Community ... 6-7 Sports ...... 9-11 Happy New Year...... funds from the community in a drive led by Mr. Wussler. Hagg was released after making would cost $1.3 million. A half-million Page 8 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A Watchung Communications, Inc. Publication

David Samsky for The Westfield Leader David Samsky for The Westfield Leader Horace Corbin for The Westfield Leader September 18, 2008 – SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL RACE...As the election November 1, 2008 - HI-FIVE...President Bill Clinton, right, and New Jersey BOO...In late October, everyone from clowns, witches, catwoman and heated up, Asw. Linda Stender of Fanwood (D-LD-22) and Senator Leonard Governor Jon Corzine exchanged greetings during the campaign rally for Linda Poison Ivy wished the readership a Happy Halloween. Lance (R-LD-23) debated in Scotch Plains. Mr. Lance went on to win the race. Stender for Congress in Cranford at Union County College. (Continued from Page 1) 2008 Year In Review: Part 2 – June to December goleader.com/archives and fled the scene after another car lost rural communities, as well as provide construction of a third mixed-use build- “site remediation” work was underway coach Gary Kehler. Fundraisers raised in addition to increases as employees control and crashed off the highway – grants to paid, full-time police depart- ing on South Avenue. Charles and Mar- at the former Dean Oil property at more than $45,000 to offset Will’s medi- advance upward in the 15-step pay scale were indicted by a Union County grand ments for property-tax relief. garet Cobb sold the property, at 254 and LaGrande and Second Avenues, where cal treatments at Memorial Sloan- system. jury. Two other men, ages 18 and 20, The Rahway Valley Sewerage 256 South Avenue, to Fanwood Village the Station Square townhouses will be Kettering Cancer Center in New York The Westfield Police Department re- were killed in the accident. Authority’s (RVSA) board revealed that Investors, LLC, for $1 million. Plans constructed. City. An anonymous donor agreed to ported a 114 percent hike in burglaries Garwood a postponed chemical feed system include 9,700 square feet of retail space The two Democrat and two Republi- match every donation up to $10,000. since October 1 of this year. The borough council approved an needed for odor control could cost about at the street level with two upper floors can candidates vying for open seats on Fanwood Scotch Plains amended 2008 municipal budget. Un- $7 million more than anticipated. The containing business condominium the borough council faced off in a tele- Incumbent Council President Joan The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board der the $6.8-million budget, municipal RVSA decided in September to remove units. vised debate that covered topics rang- Wheeler and Russell Huegel, both Demo- of Education approved an expansion taxes will increase $177 on a house the current contractor, Holmdel-based Fanwood business owner, Lee Marks, ing from the municipal budget, state crats, defeated Republicans Robert plan for the district’s preschool pro- assessed at $100,000. E.E. Cruz and Company. 55, was arrested and charged with mul- aid, downtown redevelopment and a Manduca and Mike Lee Szuch in the gram. The goal of the expansion plan is The board of education announced SEPTEMBER tiple counts of sex crimes against minors possible merger of Fanwood with an- quest for two council seats. to enroll 90 percent eligible, at-risk 3- the hiring of Mary Emmons as princi- Westfield following a six-month investigation. He other area community. Mountainside and 4-year-old preschoolers by the pal of Lincoln School, filling the va- The town council introduced an ordi- was charged with sexual assault, aggra- Mountainside Republican Councilmen Keith Turner 2013-2014 school year. cancy created by Teresa Quigley’s el- nance to roll back the enforcement on vated criminal sexual contact, endan- The governing body indicated that and Paul Mirabelli were re-elected to the The township council approved a evation to superintendent in May. Ms. employee parking spaces in Lot 8 gering the welfare of a child and mul- personnel decisions would likely come borough council. Both candidates were resolution authorizing a deer census to Emmons was given a salary of $88,000. (Verizon lot) to 4:30 p.m. in response to tiple acts of lewdness and a disorderly- under increased scrutiny during the next running unopposed for three-year terms. be conducted in more than a dozen Union County downtown shopkeepers who said part- persons offense. Marks operated Laser budget cycle. It was noted that Garwood neighborhoods in Scotch Plains where The board of chosen freeholders ap- time employees had difficulty finding Design, Inc., a home-based business he Mountainside and other smaller mu- Democrats Jonathan Linken and Louis deer have been sighted. proved the implementation phase of the adequate parking, especially at night. started out of his garage in 1988. nicipalities could expect a dip in tax Petruzzelli edged out Dominick Bratti, a Union County Economic and Westfield Memorial Library officials Mountainside revenues as the result of expected job Republicans Patricia member of the plan- Workforce Competitiveness Project, announced that the library would even- The board of education approved the losses and the housing crisis. Quattrocchi and Timo- ning board since 2004, developed by the John J. Heldrich Cen- tually receive the bulk of its energy hiring of Mary Humphries as the Union County thy Hak for two open is slated to fill the va- ter for Workforce Development at from solar panels. The library’s arrange- district’s supervisor of special services The Union County Board of Chosen seats on the borough cancy on the township Rutgers University. The center recom- ment would call for a roughly 60 per- at a salary of $104,481. Freeholders adopted a $33.4-million council. council being vacated mended the county develop a health cent solar/ 40 percent electric split, With one dissenting vote and one bond ordinance for the implementation Ed Friedman, a by Deputy Mayor career center and use the existing retail- depending on the amount of panels abstention, the seven-member board of the county’s annual capital budget. Garwood resident and Nancy Malool when skills center to train workers in sales placed. of education approved adding the po- Dennis Kobitz, deputy administrator operations manager for she becomes mayor to- and customer-service jobs in the “high- WECARE (Westfielders Concerned sition of staff accountant at a salary of of the Union County Board of Elec- renewable energy com- day, January 1, 2009. wage wholesale trade sector.” About Responsible Development) $65,000. Board members Carmine tions, revealed that the county was ex- pany EcoKinetix, ad- Fanwood Two Union County employees pled chairwoman Sharon Stockwell re- Venes and Joseph Tinnirella, chair- periencing “unprecedented” numbers vised the council that The Seafarer guilty in State Superior Court for their quested that the town council integrate man of the personnel sub-committee, of new voter registrations as the dead- the borough could ei- Chippery shut its doors roles in smuggling tobacco products a vacant-buildings ordinance with the questioned the necessity of hiring a line neared to cast ballots in the historic ther purchase solar pan- and posted a “for sale” into the Union County jail. land use task force’s recommendations. staff accountant to assist in maintain- 2008 General Election on November 4. els for its municipal sign in the building’s Area Scotch Plains ing the district’s books during a period The six candidates for Union County buildings at a cost of main window facing The New Jersey Turnpike Authority Kimberly Richards was hired as the of fiscal challenges. freeholder shared their views on such between $800,000 and South Avenue. (NJTA) Board of Commissioners new Terrill Middle School assistant Garwood topics as shared services, freeholder $1.2 million or enter into The planning and named Ken Rotter of Westfield as act- principal. She was previously with the The borough council voted 4-2 salaries and county spending during a a “power purchasing zoning board of adjust- ing executive director of the NJTA on Morris school district, which covers against a resolution calling for certain 90-minute debate held in Cranford. agreement” with a pri- Rep. Matthew Rinaldo, Jr. ment voted to approve July 22. He succeeded Michael Lapolla, Morristown, Morris Township and members of the Union County Board of Area vate company, which died at 77, October 13, 2008 the Housing Plan Ele- also of Westfield, who left the NJTA to Morris Plains schools. Chosen Freeholders to be elected by Governor Jon Corzine debuted a new would install the panels ment of the Master join a private transportation company. The township received construction district. The two “yes” votes came from ethics-reform package that extended and then sell energy to the borough at a Plan, which includes the borough’s Advance Publications, Inc. an- estimates of $1.34 million in upgrades the resolution’s sponsors, councilmen restrictions on political contributions reduced rate. Council on Affordable Housing nounced plans to sell The Star-Ledger for the north-side firehouse building Anthony Sytko, a Republican, and by companies and individuals seeking The board of education announced that (COAH) obligations. Fanwood is re- of Newark unless 26 percent, or 200 and $261,000 for renovations to the Stephen Napolitano, a Democrat. contracts from the state down to the the negotiations committee had reached a quired by COAH calculations to pro- members, of the 750-person staff ac- south-side building. An additional Union County municipal and school-district level. tentative agreement with the Garwood vide 26 affordable-housing units, based cepted buyouts by October 1. In the $250,000 was included for solar panels The Union County Prosecutor’s Of- Matthew J. Rinaldo, Jr., a former 10- Education Association regarding a new on projected residential and non-resi- end, the paper was able to achieve the for the north-side facility. fice proposed a new $4.5-million child term Republican Congressman, died at contract. dential growth over the next 10 years. desired buyouts and did not close. Three workers were seriously injured advocacy center to replace an aging the age of 77 of complications from Union County Mountainside Annette Quijano edged out Eliza- in a fire at the Lamberts Mill Village facility in Elizabeth. Preliminary plans Parkinson’s disease. He represented the Union County Freeholders Angel The borough council appointed two beth Councilwoman Patricia Perkins- Garden apartments on Spruce Mill call for construction of an 11,000- 12th Congressional District for 20 years. Estrada, Rick Proctor and Nancy Ward new patrolmen at $36,254 each. Both Auguste in a special Democratic com- Lane. Antonio Menjivar, 25, sustained square-foot facility in Elizabeth that With redistricting in 1980, the 12th defeated Republicans John Russitano, men were hired to fill the positions of mittee election to fill the 20th Legisla- burns to 80 percent of his body, while would be accessible from the court- District became the modern-day Sev- Michael Yakubov and Joseph Franchino. two patrolmen who retired this year. tive District seat, through the other two workers, house and prosecutor’s office. The cur- enth District, which includes parts of A libel lawsuit filed by Sebastian Officials said the hiring’s bring the force November, left vacant by Fredy Garcia, 33, and rent center measures 2,400 square feet. Union County. D’Elia, public informa- back up to 22 patrol- the resignation of As- Jose Guardado, 25, sus- Union County Prosecutor Ted NOVEMBER tion officer for the men and reduces the semblyman Neil Cohen tained burns to over 30 Romankow announced the formation Westfield Union County free- department’s depen- (LD-20, Roselle). Cohen percent of their bodies. of a special homicide taskforce to com- Edward Tranchina, director of ath- holders, against Tina dence on overtime. resigned in July after re- Mr. Menjivar later died bat the rate of unsolved murders in the letics at Westfield High School (WHS), Renna of Cranford and The borough in- ports that child pornog- of his injuries. Authori- county. The taskforce, made up of po- announced that WHS sports teams, ex- Patricia Quattrocchi of curred more than raphy was discovered on ties said the fire began lice officers from throughout the county, cluding the football team, would play Garwood, two vocal $100,000 in unex- his legislative office while the men were re- as well as members of the prosecutor’s in the newly created Greater Union critics of county gov- pected overtime computer. The district moving varnish from a office, handles all new and unresolved County Conference with Elizabeth, ernment, was thrown costs in 2008. includes Elizabeth, first-floor apartment. homicides in the county. Mr. Romankow Union, Linden, Plainfield, Scotch out of court following Garwood Union, Roselle and Fire Chief Jonathan Ellis blamed the increased murder rate on Plains-Fanwood, Cranford, St. oral arguments before In an effort to cut Kenilworth. Ms. Quijano said the men were using gang activity, estimating that 40 per- Patrick’s, Rahway, Governor State Superior Court costs, Borough won a special election in a solvent containing ac- cent of the homicides in the county are Livingston, Hillside, A.L. Johnson, Judge Marianne Council President November over Union etone, which was ignited gang-related, compared with 20 per- Union Catholic, Roselle, Roselle Catho- Espinosa in Elizabeth. and Chairwoman resident Linda Gaglione, by a pilot light from a cent statewide. lic, Roselle Park, New Providence, Mr. D’Elia filed the law- Kathleen Villaggio a Republican and cur- Arthur Fried, 95, died water heater. OCTOBER Jonathan Dayton, Oak Knoll, David suit in response to writ- recommended that rent Union Township August 31, 2008 Township Manager Westfield Brearley, Oratory Prep and St. Mary. ten comments about Garwood offer pay- Board of Education presi- Michael Capabianco said Atlantic Container Lines purchased Westfield’s football team will fall him posted on an ments to municipal dent, and will now serve the remaining the township’s contributions to the a 41,000-square-foot building on Car- under the Mid State 40 Football Internet blog, “The employees who vol- year on Mr. Cohen’s term. state’s two pension programs would dinal Drive in Westfield for its new Conference’s Watchung Division with County Watchers.” untarily opt out of the Opposition started to grow against increase nearly 15 percent in 2009, headquarters. A specialized carrier of Elizabeth, Linden, Union, Plainfield, Prosecutors filed Alfred Riker died July 21, 2008 borough’s health in- legislation (S-1976), sponsored by nearly double the statewide average. containers, oversized cargo, heavy and Scotch Plains-Fanwood. The Mid criminal complaints surance program. Senator Jeff Van Drew (LD-1, Cape Fanwood equipment and vehicles, the company State 40 also encompasses the Dela- against two teachers in the Linden public Ms. Villaggio said these payments rep- May), which would impose a $40 sur- One of the last remaining properties services shipping routes between North ware, Raritan, Mountain, Valley, Union school system after an investigation re- resent less than 50 percent of the charge on all motor vehicle violations in the redevelopment of Fanwood’s America and Europe and between North and Hills divisions. Westfield will no vealed that they had tampered with records borough’s current expenditures on issued statewide to fund policing in downtown was sold, paving the way for America and West Africa, while also longer play Newark’s Shabazz, East to increase overtime pay. health insurance for employees. providing oversized service to the Medi- Side, Irvington and Kearny, but in- Area The borough’s combined payment to terranean and South America. stead will play schools further west. Democrat Barack Obama defeated the Police and Firemen’s Retirement Linda Augustine of downtown Vice Principal of Westfield High Republican John McCain to become System (PFRS) and the Public Employ- Westfield told town council members School (WHS) Joan Carrion announced the nation’s 44th President and the first ees’ Retirement System (PERS) will that living conditions in the vicinity of her resignation effective January 2, African American to hold the office. decrease by roughly $40,000 in 2009. Starbucks had been compromised by 2009. WHS English teacher Jeremy Mr. Obama will be sworn into office on Union County what she described as the disruptive Davies was promoted to the post in January 20, 2009, along with Vice-Presi- Members of the board of chosen free- behavior of juveniles; she appealed to December. dent Elect Joseph Biden. holders did not give themselves pay officials to impose stricter anti-loiter- Linda Augustine, representing the Republican State Senator Leonard raises for 2009, but they approved giv- ing laws and consider enforcing a cur- Downtown Westfield Residential and Lance defeated Demo- ing department heads few. Downtown Westfield Corporation Commercial Tenants’ Association, cratic Assembly- raises of between 1.5 Executive Director Sherry Cronin called for the termination of Robert woman Linda Stender and 6 percent. shared her sentiments. Cockren as the legal counsel for the to maintain the GOP’s The board also ap- On the heels of the success of its town. She said her comments were in control of New proved resolutions to- Halloween festivities, the Downtown response to Mr. Cocken’s statement Jersey’s Seventh Con- taling more than Westfield Corporation stated its inten- regarding enacting anti-loitering laws. gressional District, $500,000 for county- tion to focus on plans to bring shoppers Mr. Cockren had remarked that an en- capturing the seat be- sponsored entertain- and diners into the downtown. tity could not infringe on people’s con- ing vacated by the re- ment in 2009. Scotch Plains stitutional rights to assemble. tiring U.S. Rep. Mike In an effort to re- The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board Town Engineer Kenneth Marsh re- Ferguson. duce expenses, the of Education voted to approve a pro- tired after 15 years with the town. Governor Jon board approved a reso- posal to establish both a girls’ and a Scotch Plains Corzine announced a lution to offer a retire- boys’ junior varsity lacrosse team at Republican Councilwoman Nancy proposal to defer 50 ment package to 88 Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Malool defeated Democratic Council- percent of county and eligible, non-union for the spring of 2009. man Kevin Glover in the battle to replace municipal employee county employees. It was reported during a meeting of Republican Mayor Martin Marks, who pension payments in Workers who accept the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of did not seek a third mayoral term. New- April 2009. The pro- the offer would have DON’T HOPE SO. KNOW SO. Education that incidents of violence comer Mary DePaola, a Republican, beat posal would require Dick Samuel withdraws from 100 percent of their had decreased in the school district Democrat Theresa Mullen to win the approval by the State SP council race July 3, 2008. healthcare costs cov- from the 2006-2007 school year and council seat being vacated by Paulette Legislature and would ered by the county. Call me for a fast, free Good Hands® that the district had also seen a decrease Coronato. require 100 percent funding by 2012. Area Coverage Checkup. I can help you make in incidents involving weapons and sub- Newark and Scotch Plains-Fanwood Former State Senator Wayne Bryant The Rahway Valley Sewerage Au- school districts reached an agreement on sure you get the right coverage at the stance abuse, although there was an (D-Camden), the former chairman of thority (RVSA) board voted to reap- increase in vandalism. a make-up date for the football game the Senate Appropriations Committee, point Weiner, Lesniak LLP of best possible price. Why wait? Call me Democratic candidates for mayor and between Scotch Plains-Fanwood High was convicted on charges that he ac- Parsippany as counsel after a vote to today. township council opted not to partici- School (SPFHS) and Malcolm X Shabazz cepted no-show political jobs in order replace them with another firm fell short. pate in a candidates’ forum sponsored High School after the game was can- to boost his income and his pension. The Cranford zoning board of ad- Ron Bansky by The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times celled following a number of murders in U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Chris justment rejected a 120-foot cell tower and the League of Women Voters. Newark. The game was played on No- Christie announced his resignation ef- monopole proposed in a residential (800) 554-6964 The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA vember 21, at 4 p.m. at Untermann Field fective December 2. neighborhood at the Cranford Swim broke ground on October 28, at its main in Newark. SPFHS won the game, 43-21. DECEMBER Club following a yearlong hearing pro- facility, located on Martine Avenue. Firefighters from five towns battled a Westfield cess in front of a large constituency of The new building will include a second fire in a vacant North Avenue house. The Carol Salvaggio was named acting Cranford and Westfield residents. 519 South Ave West pool, the Gym Jams Preschool, pro- blaze, extinguished in 90 minutes, began court administrator, replacing longtime Westfield gram space and staff offices. in a wall-based light switch on the first court administrator Linda Chieffo, who Westfield Students [email protected] Fanwood floor and spread through the space be- retired. Fanwood business owner Lee Marks, tween the wall and roof, engulfing the The town council approved a new second floor in the process. Return on January 5 55, who had initially been arrested Sep- four-year contract with the Communi- WESTFIELD – The Westfield tember 19 on various charges related to The community rallied to raise funds cation Workers of America (CWA), ret- for Wil Kehler, a 5-year-old Westfielder Public Schools will be closed for alleged sexual contact with children, roactive to 2008. The new contract in- Winter Recess through this com- was re-arrested at his home after an diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a rare bone cludes 2 percent hikes in 2008, 2009 investigation revealed 18 victims. cancer in his left femur. The boy is the and 2010, as well as a 2.5 percent in- ing weekend, with classes resum- Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Bridgewater, NJ. © 2008 Allstate ing on Monday, January 5. Insurance Company Mayor Colleen Mahr confirmed that grandson of the late Westfield High School crease in the final year of the contract, BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!

USPS 485200 Thursday, January 1, 2009 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 SIXTY CENTS OUR 50TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 01-2009 Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J. www.timesnj.com [email protected]

2008 Year In Review: Part 2 – June to December goleader.com/archives Lance Defeats Stender; Assemblyman Neil Cohen Arrested; SP Apartment Fire Kills One Worker, Injures Two; Chippery Closes JUNE Portable Containerized Property Stor- purchase four acres of land for $1.6 Scotch Plains age Facilities (PCPSF), which are usu- million at Runnells Specialized Hos- Officials from both Union County ally in place during construction. The pital in Berkeley Heights. and Scotch Plains gathered as youth ordinance prohibits residents from leav- Union County Republican Party baseball players from the township ing PCPSFs in their driveways for longer members re-elected Phil Morin of played the first game under the lights at than 30 days. Cranford to a third, two-year term. the renovated Union County Vocational- The board of education approved the Area Technical Schools field on Raritan Road. appointment of Robert Phillips as prin- State Senator Leonard Lance (LD- Township council members approved cipal of Deerfield School. Mr. Phillips 23, Clinton) won a seven-candidate an ordinance to create a downtown Spe- replaced Jeanette Baubles, who took Republican primary to earn the right to cial Improvement District by a 3-1-1 the place of former Chief School Ad- face Democratic State Assemblywoman vote following a four-and-a-half-hour ministrator Richard O’Malley. Linda Stender (LD-22, Fanwood) in public hearing. The borough council adopted a $10.5- the Seventh District Congressional race Fanwood million municipal budget, of which to succeed retiring Rep. Mike Ferguson The borough sent out layoff notices nearly $6.5 million will be raised (R-New Providence). to its 66 municipal employees. Mayor through local property taxes, an in- Former Union County Freeholder and Colleen Mahr blamed the action on a crease of roughly $800,000 from 2007. ex-Plainfield councilman Adrian Mapp 30-percent hike in pension costs, rising The borough’s planning board unani- defeated incumbent Third Ward Coun- fuel and utility costs, and a cut in state- mously denied Arirang Hibachi cilman Don Davis in the June 3 Demo- aid figures. In the end, one borough Steakhouse and Sushi Bar’s submittal cratic primary, while his running-mate, Annie McWilliams, the daughter of the late former mayor Al McWilliams, de- feated Council President Harold Gibson for an at-large council seat. Both were victorious in the November General Election. Rahway Business Administrator Pe- ter Pelissier resigned from the Board of Commissioners of the Rahway Valley Sewerage Authority (RVSA). In 2007, Mr. Pelissier, who also serves as a con- sultant to the Rahway redevelopment agency, was ordered to repay $330,000 in pension payments after state offi- cials had discovered he retired to a 23- acre Montana ranch, but was receiving Michael J. Pollack for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times almost the same income as a consultant November 13, 2008 – FREEDOM IS NOT FREE...On Veterans Day in Scotch Plains, Don Wussler, right, unveiled a new clock to the redevelopment agency. in honor of fellow Korean War veterans. Inscribed on the new clock is the phrase “Freedom is not Free.” Mr. Wussler, who The New Jersey Education Associa- had spearheaded the fundraising, when addressing the large crowd of veterans and town officials, said he had exceeded his tion (NJEA) launched a statewide pro- initial goal of $15,000. “It’s been a long time coming, but it was worth it,” he told the crowd. To commemorate the festivities, test to oppose three bills that would Westfield Bell ringer, Jack Panosh, back, brought the Westfield Town Bell to Scotch Plains. To view pictures online, see Fred Rossi for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times goleader.com/photos. August 21, 2008 – LONG TENURE…Scotch Plains Municipal Manager Tom have changed the formula used to cal- Atkins reviews computer documents in his office. He retired on August 29, after culate pensions for certain public- 28 years of running the township’s day-to-day operations. school employees. National Superintendents Roundtable suggestions included flat-style apart- 2007, with county taxes increasing by The protests largely ended in suc- who traveled to China on June 23 ments, as well as community and recre- $13 million. cess, as the three bills that the NJEA through July 1 to learn about the lan- ation facilities such as a borough swim- Area targeted during the protests were dis- guage, history and culture of one of the ming pool. The State Senate approved, by a tally carded. The bill package that was passed world’s oldest civilizations. Union County of 21-16, the biggest overhaul of the rose the age of retirement from 60 to 62 In the wake of increased enrollment The $4.3-million renovation of the state’s affordable-housing regulations for future pension-fund members and at Terrill Middle School, the school Garden State Parkway exit 135 in Clark in 20 years. The legislation, A-500, eliminated one paid holiday, Lincoln’s district brought in four modular trail- was completed. Four traffic lights were passed in a 44-34-2 Assembly vote. birthday, from the state government ers to serve as classrooms for the added to ease confusion and regulate Major changes in the bill include: the public employees’ working year as of 2008-2009 school year. traffic flow, as well as a connector road elimination of Regional Contribution 2011. Fanwood for drivers through the middle of the Agreements (RCA’s); a 2.5 percent non- JULY The Fanwood Republican Commit- circle itself. The northbound exit ramps residential development fee to fund Westfield tee named Mike Szuch to replace Joel were widened, and line striping was construction and renovation, and re- The town council approved salaries Stroz on the fall ticket to run for added to control lanes. vised growth-share rules stipulating one for library, police and salaried non- Fanwood Borough Council. He joined After allegations that pornographic affordable-housing unit to be con- union employees, as well as for the Robert Manduca in a race against images of children were found on his structed for every four market-rate units mayor and council. Non-union full- Democrats Joan Wheeler, an incum- legislative office computer, Democratic and for every 16 jobs created. time employees saw a 3.75 percent bent, and newcomer Russell Huegel. Assemblyman Neil Cohen (LD-20, U.S. District Judge William Martini increase in pay; appointed part-time The borough council approved an Union) resigned from office. Cohen sentenced former State Senator and New- employees, including the planning ordinance to establish the position of was indicted in December. ark Mayor Sharpe James to 27 months in board, board of adjustment and munici- police dispatcher. Councilwoman The board of chosen freeholders ap- prison. James was also fined $100,000. In pal attorneys, prosecutor and defender, Katherine Mitchell said Fanwood and proved a $437.8-million budget by an a highly publicized trial, a jury convicted were given a 3 percent pay hike; the Kenilworth were the only two Union 8-0 tally, following a public hearing. James of fraud and conspiracy. The budget is up $2.3 million over Martin Sweeney for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times police and fire chiefs, along with both County municipalities to not have dis- CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 July 17, 2008 – NO LAYOFFS PLEASE…Phil Ugoni, representing Policemen’s deputy fire chiefs, saw a 4 percent pay patchers. Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 123, foreground, addressed the Fanwood increase. Scotch Plains developer Paul Council, urging the council to consider the needs of the borough’s employees Meanwhile, the library’s board of DiFrancesco filed a lawsuit in State when making the remaining budget cuts. Pictured, from left to right, are: trustees approved salaries of $89,900 Superior Court in Elizabeth against the Councilman Anthony Parenti, Councilwoman Joan Wheeler and Mayor Colleen for the library director and $70,500 for Fanwood planning and zoning board of Mahr. the assistant library director. Both rep- adjustment for denying his site plan resented 4 percent increases from 2007. application to construct a house fronting police officer was laid off. for a use variance. The restaurant wanted The Westfield Farmers’ Market onto the dead-end street of St. John’s Westfield to expand its business by turning the opened July 5 with less produce than Place behind an existing home that The planning board unanimously 12,000 square feet of unused space in usual after the largest vendor – fronts onto Woodland Avenue. approved a parking variance for the basement into a banquet hall. Hackettstown-based Donaldson Farms The borough council introduced an Xocolatz’s new location at 235 Elmer Garwood – was absent from the marketplace due amended budget that calls for a 5.46 Street. The variance consent was given The borough council approved a re- to a parking issue that escalated in the percent, or $1,252,498, hike in overall with the conditions that the restaurant duction in the mayor’s salary from Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, taxes, including county, school and have a maximum seating of 60 and $2,400 to $1,800, and council salaries which effectively banned one of municipal figures. A total of $5.3 mil- valet parking available at peak times. from $2,000 to $1,500 each. Donaldson’s employees. lion will be raised in municipal taxes, The board of education announced The board of education approved the A group of Westfield residents filed an increase of $727,003, or 15.9 per- the appointment of Scott White as direc- appointment of Mark Resnick as school a lawsuit against the town’s planning cent, over 2007. tor of guidance at Westfield High School business administrator on an interim board and a resident, seeking a reversal Mountainside (WHS) at a salary of $129,667, begin- basis, replacing Julia DePinto-Perez, of the board’s approval to subdivide Jason Hagg of Piscataway, the 35- who resigned. and create two new building lots on year-old youth director at Mountainside John Maguire for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times ning August 11. He replaced Steven November 6, 2008 – OFF TO D.C...Leonard Lance won the election for Congress Maczynski, who moved out of state. Union County Canterbury Lane off of Wychwood Gospel Chapel, was arrested and charged with having a relationship with in New Jersey’s Seventh District representing the region. Mr. Lance received 51 The board of education elevated Anita The board of chosen freeholders ap- Road. One of the lots would feature a percent of the vote. Linda Stender received 42 percent, and Michael Hsing O’Neal from interim status to permanent proved the acquisition of the 4,600- new home in front of the smaller of two a 16-year-old youth group member. received 6 percent. Rep. Mike Ferguson is pictured at left, and Sen. Tom Kean, assistant superintendent for curriculum square-foot American-Hungarian Citi- gatehouses at the East Broad Street Hagg was released after making and instruction, agreeing on a two-year zens Club and its grounds in Clark for entrance to Wychwood. $100,000 bail. He is the son of the contract at a yearly salary of $145,000. $625,000. Grand Marshal Alfred Riker of chapel’s Minister Gregg Hagg. Mountainside The Berkeley Aquatic Club signed Westfield, the chaplain of the Martin Garwood Borough council members adopted an agreement with the Union County Wallberg Post of the American Legion, The board of education voted to an ordinance to regulate the use of Improvement Authority (UCIA) to passed away on July 21. Mr. Riker gave switch from Horizon to the state’s health the opening prayer and benediction at benefits plan for its employees to avoid the 2003 Memorial Day ceremony, a 52 percent hike in the district’s health which was held indoors. Mr. Riker also plan premium. was slated to be the 2009 parade’s Grand Borough council members an- Marshal. nounced the borough would receive Scotch Plains $250,000 in extraordinary aid to help The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board further decrease the tax levy. Borough of Education (BOE) eliminated a full- Council President Kathleen Villaggio time assistant principal position at said the additional aid, combined with Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School. $251,550 in Consolidated Municipal Democrat Richard Samuel dropped Property Tax Relief Aid and budget out of the fall campaign for township cuts, would result in an average tax council. Mr. Samuel was set to oppose increase for municipal services of $191 Republican Mary DePaola for the town- per home assessed at $100,000, instead ship council. Township Democrats se- of $518. lected attorney Theresa Mullen to re- The board of education voted to for- place Mr. Samuel on the party’s No- mally approve the contract of Teresa Fred T. Rossi for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times vember ticket. Quigley as the borough’s new superin- November 6, 2008 – PEOPLE’S CHOICE...Scotch Plains Mayor-Elect Nancy The township council approved a one- tendent of schools. Ms. Quigley had Malool posed with her running mate, Mary DePaola, Mayor Martin Marks and year extension to the Scotch Plains served as acting superintendent since Councilwoman Paulette Coronato at the Scotch Hills Country Club upon hearing Police Benevolent Association’s exist- May 2007, after former superintendent that the voters selected them as the winning ticket. Pictured, left to right, are: Mrs. ing pact, which was set to expire at the Wilfred Murphy became ill. Coronato, Mrs. DePaola, Mrs. Malool and Mr. Marks. end of this year. The average salary The planning board received resi- Benjamin Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times increase for police officers is 3.52 per- dents’ input on the borough’s master PAGE INDEX September 11, 2008 – SCOTCH PLAINS FIRE...Three men were injured in a cent. plan. When asked what type of devel- Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 7 Classifieds .... 12 mid-morning blaze at Lamberts Mill Village Garden Apartments. The men were Superintendent of Schools Margaret opment they would like to see along Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 12 A&E ...... 13-14 removing varnish from a first-floor apartment when a solvent was iginted by a North and South Avenues, residents’ water heater pilot light. Later, it was reported one worker died from his injuries. Hayes was among 25 members of the Community ... 6-7 Sports ...... 9-11 Happy New Year!..... Page 8 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

David Samsky for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times David Samsky for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Horace Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times September 18, 2008 – SEVENTH CONGRESSIONAL RACE...Asw. Linda Stender November 1, 2008 – HI-FIVE...President Bill Clinton, right, and New Jersey BOO...In late October, everyone from clowns, witches, catwoman and of Fanwood (D-LD-22) and Senator Leonard Lance (R-LD-23) debated in Scotch Governor Jon Corzine exchanged greetings during the campaign rally for Linda Poison Ivy wished the readership a Happy Halloween. Plains. Mr. Lance won the election, maintaining GOP control of the Seventh District. Stender for Congress in Cranford at Union County College. (Continued from Page 1) 2008 Year In Review: Part 2 – June to December goleader.com/archives AUGUST Rutgers University. The center recom- estimates of $1.34 million in upgrades posal to establish both a girls’ and a Scotch Plains Legislature and would require 100 Westfield mended the county develop a health for the north-side firehouse building boys’ junior varsity lacrosse team at Republican Councilwoman Nancy percent funding by 2012. The Westfield Historical Society career center and use the existing retail- and $261,000 for renovations to the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Malool defeated Democratic Council- Former State Senator Wayne Bryant told the town council that the restora- skills center to train workers in sales south-side building. An additional for the spring of 2009. man Kevin Glover in the battle to re- (D-Camden), the former chairman of tion of the 1870’s Italianate-style and customer-service jobs in the “high- $250,000 was included for solar panels It was reported during a meeting of place Republican Mayor Martin Marks, the Senate Appropriations Committee, Reeve House and construction of a car- wage wholesale trade sector.” for the north-side facility. the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of who did not seek a third mayoral term. was convicted on charges that he ac- riage house would cost $1.3 million. A Two Union County employees pled Three workers were seriously in- Education that incidents of violence Newcomer Mary DePaola, a Republi- cepted no-show political jobs in order half-million dollars was still needed in guilty in State Superior Court for their jured in a fire at the Lamberts Mill had decreased in the school district can, beat Democrat Theresa Mullen to to boost his income and his pension. fundraising. roles in smuggling tobacco products Village Garden apartments on Spruce from the 2006-2007 school year and win the council seat being vacated by U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Chris The Cheeburger Cheeburger restau- into the Union County jail. Mill Lane. Antonio Menjivar, 25, sus- that the district had also seen a decrease Paulette Coronato. Christie announced his resignation ef- rant, located in the North Avenue Train Area tained burns to 80 percent of his body, in incidents involving weapons and sub- Newark and Scotch Plains-Fanwood fective December 2. Station Plaza, closed suddenly. The The New Jersey Turnpike Authority while the other two workers, Fredy stance abuse, although there was an school districts reached an agreement DECEMBER 1950’s diner-themed restaurant had (NJTA) Board of Commissioners Garcia, 33, and Jose Guardado, 25, increase in vandalism. on a make-up date for the football game Westfield operated in that location since Decem- named Ken Rotter of Westfield as act- sustained burns to over 30 percent of Democratic candidates for mayor and between Scotch Plains-Fanwood High Carol Salvaggio was named acting ber 2004. ing executive director of the NJTA on their bodies. Mr. Menjivar later died of township council opted not to partici- School (SPFHS) and Malcolm X court administrator, replacing longtime Arthur Fried died at the age of 95. July 22. He succeeded Michael Lapolla, his injuries. Authorities said the fire pate in a candidates’ forum sponsored Shabazz High School court administrator Mr. Fried was the Democratic Party’s also of Westfield, who left the NJTA to began while the men were removing by The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times after the game was can- Linda Chieffo, who re- candidate for Westfield mayor in 1960 join a private transportation company. varnish from a first-floor apartment. and the League of Women Voters. celled following a num- tired. and, later, was elected a Union County Advance Publications, Inc. an- Fire Chief Jonathan Ellis said the men The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA ber of murders in New- The town council ap- freeholder. He also served on the nounced plans to sell The Star-Ledger were using a solvent containing ac- broke ground on October 28, at its main ark. The game was proved a new four-year Westfield zoning board of adjustment. of Newark unless 26 percent, or 200 etone, which was ignited by a pilot light facility, located on Martine Avenue. played on November contract with the Com- Scotch Plains members, of the 750-person staff ac- from a water heater. The new building will include a second 21, at 4 p.m. at munication Workers of Michael Capabianco was hired as cepted buyouts by October 1. In the Township Manager Michael pool, the Gym Jams Preschool, pro- Untermann Field in America, retroactive to the new township manager replacing end, the paper was able to achieve the Capabianco said the township’s contri- gram space and staff offices. Newark. SPFHS won 2008. The new contract Tom Atkins, who retired after 28 years. desired buyouts and did not close. butions to the state’s two pension pro- Fanwood the game, 43-21. includes 2 percent hikes Mr. Capabianco had been the shared Annette Quijano edged out Eliza- grams would increase nearly 15 per- Fanwood business owner Lee Marks, Firefighters from five in 2008, 2009 and 2010, services coordinator for the Hunterdon beth Councilwoman Patricia Perkins- cent in 2009, nearly double the state- 55, who had initially been arrested Sep- towns battled a fire in a as well as a 2.5 percent County Chamber of Commerce and Auguste in a special Democratic com- wide average. tember 19 on various charges related to vacant North Avenue increase in the final year was previously a borough manager for mittee election to fill the 20th Legisla- Fanwood alleged sexual contact with children, house. The blaze, extin- of the contract, in addi- two years in Folcroft, Pa. tive District seat, through November, One of the last remaining properties was re-arrested at his home after an guished in 90 minutes, tion to increases as em- Police said someone stole 15 to 20 left vacant by the resignation of Assem- in the redevelopment of Fanwood’s investigation revealed 18 victims. began in a wall-based ployees advance upward laptop computers from Park Middle blyman Neil Cohen (LD-20, Roselle). downtown was sold, paving the way for Mayor Colleen Mahr confirmed that light switch on the first in the 15-step pay scale School overnight. School Detective Lieu- Cohen resigned in July after reports construction of a third mixed-use build- “site remediation” work was underway floor and spread through system. tenant Brian Donnelly said no sensitive that child pornography was discovered ing on South Avenue. Charles and Mar- at the former Dean Oil property at the space between the Rep. Matthew Rinaldo, Jr. The Westfield Police material or important personal informa- on his legislative office computer. The garet Cobb sold the property, at 254 and LaGrande and Second Avenues, where wall and roof, engulf- died at 77, October 13, 2008 Department reported a tion was contained on the laptops. district includes Elizabeth, Union, 256 South Avenue, to Fanwood Village the Station Square townhouses will be ing the second floor in 114 percent hike in bur- Fanwood Roselle and Kenilworth. Ms. Quijano Investors, LLC, for $1 million. Plans constructed. the process. glaries since October 1 of this year. Fanwood Councilman Anthony won a special election in November include 9,700 square feet of retail space The two Democrat and two Republi- The community rallied to raise funds Scotch Plains Parenti, the borough’s former police over Union resident Linda Gaglione, a at the street level with two upper floors can candidates vying for open seats on for Wil Kehler, a 5-year-old Westfielder The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of chief, proposed legislation to change Republican and current Union Town- containing business condominium units. the borough council faced off in a tele- diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a rare Education approved an expansion plan how the revenue stream in New Jersey ship Board of Education president, and Fanwood business owner, Lee Marks, vised debate that covered topics rang- bone cancer in his left femur. The boy is for the district’s preschool program. The municipal courts is calculated. He said will now serve the remaining year on 55, was arrested and charged with mul- ing from the municipal budget, state the grandson of the late Westfield High goal of the expansion plan is to enroll 90 revenue is currently divided 50 percent Mr. Cohen’s term. tiple counts of sex crimes against mi- aid, downtown redevelopment and the School coach Gary Kehler. Fundraisers percent eligible, at-risk 3- and 4-year- to towns and 50 percent to county gov- Opposition started to grow against nors following a six-month investiga- possible merger of Fanwood with an- raised more than $45,000 to offset Will’s old preschoolers by the 2013-2014 ernment. Mr. Parenti proposed 80 per- legislation (S-1976), sponsored by tion. He was charged with sexual as- other area community. medical treatments at Memorial Sloan- school year. cent of the revenue go to municipalities Senator Jeff Van Drew (LD-1, Cape sault, aggravated criminal sexual con- Mountainside Kettering Cancer Center in New York The township council approved a and 20 percent to counties. May), which would impose a $40 sur- tact, endangering the welfare of a child The governing body indicated that City. An anonymous donor agreed to resolution authorizing a deer census to Mountainside charge on all motor vehicle violations and multiple acts of lewdness and a personnel decisions would likely come match every donation up to $10,000. be conducted in more than a dozen Mayor Robert Viglianti took offense issued statewide to fund policing in disorderly-persons offense. Marks op- under increased scrutiny during the next Fanwood neighborhoods in Scotch Plains where to a petition filed in opposition to the rural communities, as well as provide erated Laser Design, Inc., a home-based budget cycle. It was noted that Incumbent Council President Joan deer have been sighted. borough’s first-annual Volunteer Ap- grants to paid, full-time police depart- business he started out of his garage in Mountainside and other smaller mu- Wheeler and Russell Huegel, both Dominick Bratti, a member of the preciation Day, planned for August 16 ments for property-tax relief. 1988. nicipalities could expect a dip in tax Democrats, defeated Republicans Rob- planning board since 2004, is slated to at the community pool. One-hundred- The Rahway Valley Sewerage Mountainside revenues as a result of expected job ert Manduca and Mike fill the vacancy on the and-eleven individuals who objected to Authority’s (RVSA) board revealed that The board of education approved the losses and the housing crisis. Lee Szuch in the quest township council being the borough closing the pool signed the a postponed chemical feed system hiring of Mary Humphries as the Union County for two council seats. vacated by Deputy petition. “I am very upset that a small needed for odor control could cost about district’s supervisor of special services The Union County Board of Chosen Mountainside Mayor Nancy Malool group of people led this drive to dis- $7 million more than anticipated. The at a salary of $104,481. Freeholders adopted a $33.4-million Republican Council- when she becomes honor what was intended to be a small RVSA decided in September to remove With one dissenting vote and one bond ordinance for the implementation men Keith Turner and mayor today, January 1, ‘thank you’ to those who volunteer their the current contractor, Holmdel-based abstention, the seven-member board of the county’s annual capital budget. Paul Mirabelli were re- 2009. time for the community,” Mayor E.E. Cruz and Company. of education approved adding the po- Dennis Kobitz, deputy administrator elected to the borough Fanwood Viglianti responded. SEPTEMBER sition of staff accountant at a salary of of the Union County Board of Elec- council. Both candi- The Seafarer Timothy Black, a 16-year-old Westfield $65,000. Board members Carmine tions, revealed that the county was ex- dates were running un- Chippery shut its doors Mountainside driver, died from inju- The town council introduced an ordi- Venes and Joseph Tinnirella, chair- periencing “unprecedented” numbers opposed for three-year and posted a “for sale” ries sustained in a one-car accident on nance to roll back the enforcement on man of the personnel sub-committee, of new voter registrations as the dead- terms. sign in the building’s Route 22 in Springfield. employee parking spaces in Lot 8 questioned the necessity of hiring a line neared to cast ballots in the historic Garwood main window facing Two men who were drag racing on (Verizon lot) to 4:30 p.m. in response to staff accountant to assist in maintain- 2008 General Election on November 4. Democrats Jonathan South Avenue. Route 22 in Mountainside in 2007, and downtown shopkeepers who said part- ing the district’s books during a period The six candidates for Union County Linken and Louis The planning and zon- fled the scene after another car lost time employees had difficulty finding of fiscal challenges. freeholder shared their views on such Petruzzelli edged out ing board of adjustment control and crashed off the highway, adequate parking, especially at night. Garwood topics as shared services, freeholder Republicans Patricia voted to approve the were indicted by a Union County grand Westfield Memorial Library officials The borough council voted 4-2 salaries and county spending during a Quattrocchi and Timo- Michael Capabianco named Housing Plan Element jury. Two other men, ages 18 and 20, announced that the library would even- against a resolution calling for certain 90-minute debate held in Cranford. thy Hak for two open Scotch Plains Township of the Master Plan, which were killed in the accident. tually receive the bulk of its energy members of the Union County Board of Area seats on the borough Administrator, August 7, 2008. includes the borough’s Garwood from solar panels. The library’s arrange- Chosen Freeholders to be elected by Governor Jon Corzine debuted a new council. Council on Affordable The borough council approved an ment would call for a roughly 60 per- district. The two “yes” votes came from ethics-reform package that extended Ed Friedman, a Garwood resident Housing (COAH) obligations. Fanwood amended 2008 municipal budget. Un- cent solar/ 40 percent electric split, the resolution’s sponsors, councilmen restrictions on political contributions and operations manager for renewable is required by COAH calculations to pro- der the $6.8-million budget, municipal depending on the amount of panels Anthony Sytko, a Republican, and by companies and individuals seeking energy company EcoKinetix, advised vide 26 affordable-housing units, based taxes will increase $177 on a house placed. Stephen Napolitano, a Democrat. contracts from the state down to the the council that the borough could ei- on projected residential and non-residen- assessed at $100,000. WECARE (Westfielders Concerned Union County municipal and school-district level. ther purchase solar panels for its mu- tial growth over the next 10 years. The board of education announced About Responsible Development) The Union County Prosecutor’s Of- Matthew J. Rinaldo, Jr., a former 10- nicipal buildings at a cost of between Mountainside the hiring of Mary Emmons as princi- chairwoman Sharon Stockwell re- fice proposed a new $4.5-million child term Republican Congressman, died at $800,000 and $1.2 million or enter into The borough council appointed two pal of Lincoln School, filling the va- quested that the town council integrate advocacy center to replace an aging the age of 77 of complications from a “power purchasing agreement” with new patrolmen at $36,254 each. Both cancy created by Teresa Quigley’s el- a vacant-buildings ordinance with the facility in Elizabeth. Preliminary plans Parkinson’s disease. He represented the a private company, which would install men were hired to fill the positions of two evation to superintendent in May. Ms. land use task force’s recommendations. call for construction of an 11,000- 12th Congressional District for 20 years. the panels and then sell energy to the patrolmen who retired this year. Officials Emmons was given a salary of $88,000. Scotch Plains square-foot facility in Elizabeth that With redistricting in 1980, the 12th borough at a reduced rate. said the hiring’s bring the force back up to Union County Kimberly Richards was hired as the would be accessible from the court- District became the modern-day Sev- The board of education announced 22 patrolmen and reduces the The board of chosen freeholders ap- new Terrill Middle School assistant house and prosecutor’s office. The cur- enth District, which includes parts of that the negotiations committee had department’s dependence on overtime. proved the implementation phase of the principal. She was previously with the rent center measures 2,400 square feet. Union County. reached a tentative agreement with the The borough incurred more than $100,000 Union County Economic and Morris school district, which covers Union County Prosecutor Ted NOVEMBER Garwood Education Association re- in unexpected overtime costs in 2008. Workforce Competitiveness Project, Morristown, Morris Township and Romankow announced the formation Westfield garding a new contract. Garwood developed by the John J. Heldrich Cen- Morris Plains schools. of a special homicide taskforce to com- Edward Tranchina, director of ath- Union County In an effort to cut costs, Borough ter for Workforce Development at The township received construction bat the rate of unsolved murders in the letics at Westfield High School (WHS), Union County Freeholders Angel Council President and Chairwoman county. The taskforce, made up of po- announced that WHS sports teams, Estrada, Rick Proctor and Nancy Ward Kathleen Villaggio recommended that lice officers from throughout the county, excluding the football team, would defeated Republicans John Russitano, Garwood offer payments to municipal as well as members of the prosecutor’s play in the newly created Greater Union Michael Yakubov and Joseph employees who voluntarily opt out of office, handles all new and unresolved County Conference with Elizabeth, Franchino. the borough’s health insurance program. homicides in the county. Mr. Romankow Union, Linden, Plainfield, Scotch A libel lawsuit filed by Sebastian Ms. Villaggio said these payments rep- blamed the increased murder rate on Plains-Fanwood, Cranford, St. D’Elia, public information officer for resent less than 50 percent of the gang activity, estimating that 40 per- Patrick’s, Rahway, Governor the Union County freeholders, against borough’s current expenditures on cent of the homicides in the county are Livingston, Hillside, A.L. Johnson, Tina Renna of Cranford and Patricia health insurance for employees. gang-related, compared with 20 per- Union Catholic, Roselle, Roselle Quattrocchi of Garwood, two vocal crit- The borough’s combined payment to cent statewide. Catholic, Roselle Park, New Provi- ics of county government, was thrown the Police and Firemen’s Retirement OCTOBER dence, Jonathan Dayton, Oak Knoll, out of court following oral arguments System (PFRS) and the Public Employ- Westfield David Brearley, Oratory Prep and St. before State Superior Court Judge ees’ Retirement System (PERS) will Atlantic Container Lines (ACL) pur- Mary. Marianne Espinosa in Elizabeth. Mr. decrease by roughly $40,000 in 2009. chased a 41,000-square-foot building Westfield’s football team will fall D’Elia filed the lawsuit in response to Union County on Cardinal Drive in Westfield for its under the Mid State 40 Football written comments about him posted on Members of the board of chosen free- new headquarters. A specialized carrier Conference’s Watchung Division with an Internet blog, “The County Watch- holders did not give themselves pay of containers, oversized cargo, heavy Elizabeth, Linden, Union, Plainfield, ers.” raises for 2009, but they approved giv- equipment and vehicles, the company and Scotch Plains-Fanwood. The Mid Prosecutors filed criminal complaints ing department heads raises of between Katie Rogers for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times services shipping routes between North State 40 also encompasses the Dela- against two teachers in the Linden pub- 1.5 and 6 percent. June 19, 2008 – READY FOR GRADUATION...The new Scotch Plains-Fanwood America and Europe and between North ware, Raritan, Mountain, Valley, Union lic school system after an investigation The board also approved resolutions High School fields were updated with new turf in 2008 and were in great shape for America and West Africa, while also and Hills divisions. Westfield will no revealed that they had tampered with totaling more than $500,000 for county- the 2008 graduation ceremony. providing oversized service to the Medi- longer play Newark’s Shabazz, East records to increase overtime pay. sponsored entertainment in 2009. terranean and South America. Side, Irvington and Kearny, but instead Area In an effort to reduce expenses, the Linda Augustine of downtown will play schools further west. Democrat Barack Obama defeated board approved a resolution to offer a Westfield told town council members Vice Principal of Westfield High Republican John McCain to become retirement package to 88 eligible, non- that living conditions in the vicinity of School (WHS) Joan Carrion announced the nation’s 44th President and the first union county employees. Workers who Starbucks had been compromised by her resignation effective January 2, 2009. African American to hold the office. accept the offer would have 100 per- what she described as the disruptive WHS English teacher Jeremy Davies Mr. Obama will be sworn into office on cent of their healthcare costs covered behavior of juveniles; she appealed to was promoted to the post in December. January 20, 2009, along with Vice-Presi- by the county. officials to impose stricter anti-loiter- Linda Augustine, representing the dent Elect Joseph Biden. Area ing laws and consider enforcing a cur- Downtown Westfield Residential and Republican State Senator Leonard The Rahway Valley Sewerage Au- few. Downtown Westfield Corporation Commercial Tenants’ Association, Lance defeated Democratic Assembly- thority board voted to reappoint Weiner, Executive Director Sherry Cronin called for the termination of Robert woman Linda Stender to maintain the Lesniak LLP of Parsippany as counsel shared her sentiments. Cockren as the legal counsel for the GOP’s control of New Jersey’s Seventh after a vote to replace them with an- On the heels of the success of its town. She said her comments were in Congressional District, capturing the other firm fell short. Halloween festivities, the Downtown response to Mr. Cockren’s statement seat being vacated by the retiring U.S. The Cranford zoning board of ad- Westfield Corporation stated its inten- regarding enacting anti-loitering laws. Rep. Mike Ferguson. justment rejected a 120-foot cell tower tion to focus on plans to bring shoppers Mr. Cockren had remarked that an en- Governor Jon Corzine announced a monopole proposed in a residential and diners into the downtown. tity could not infringe on people’s con- proposal to defer 50 percent of county neighborhood at the Cranford Swim Fred T. Rossi for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Scotch Plains stitutional rights to assemble. and municipal employee pension pay- Club following a yearlong hearing pro- September 4, 2008 – SKY HIGH...Riders got a thrill on the amusement rides at the The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board Town Engineer Kenneth Marsh re- ments in April 2009. The proposal cess in front of a large constituency of 34th Annual Saint Bartholomew Italian Festival in Scotch Plains on Labor Day. of Education voted to approve a pro- tired after 15 years with the town. would require approval by the State Cranford and Westfield residents. Page 2 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Marks, Coronato Saluted DWC Budget ‘Flat’ in ’09; At Council’s Final Meeting Use of Surplus Questioned By FRED T. ROSSI when thinking of Mrs. Coronato, By PAUL J. PEYTON and WAYNE maintain flat budgets. She said the board Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times BAKER is restricted by state statutes from in- while “competence” was the word he Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times SCOTCH PLAINS — Mayor Mar- said best described the mayor. creasing its budget more than 10 per- tin Marks and Councilwoman Paulette Township Manager Michael WESTFIELD — A Westfield coun- cent over the previous year, amounting Coronato bid farewell last week as Capabianco told the mayor that of the cilman has questioned the use of sur- to $19,000 over the 2008 budget. She their tenures on the township council 35 different mayors he had worked plus funds by the Downtown Westfield said the the DWC budget and the SID came to an end after a combined 20 with over the years in various capaci- Corporation (DWC) in its 2009 bud- taxes have remained flat since 2006. years of service. ties, “you are head and shoulders get. The $390,590 spending plan, ap- Councilman Caruana said the DWC Rather than delivering more tradi- more talented than any mayor I have proved on December 22 by the DWC would be able to repay the town over tional remarks to cap his nine years as encountered.” via a 7-0 vote, dedicated suplus funds 15 years at $22,000 per year and, mayor and 12 on the governing body, Councilman Jeffrey Strauss told of $188,000 for future downtown thus, should not be keeping its re- Mr. Marks — in an effort, he admitted, Mrs. Coronato she was “dignity and capital improvement projects, DWC serve for that purpose. to avoid getting too emotional — in- class personified,” while telling the officials said. At the December 22 meeting, Ms. Councilman Sal Caruana, chair- Cronin asked Mr. Gildea about the ris- stead summed up the highlights and mayor that even though they are from Fred Rossi for The Westfield Leader and The Times accomplishments of his tenure by en- different political parties, he never felt FOND MEMORIES…Retiring Scotch Plains Recreation Commission Chairman man of the council’s finance commit- ing tax rate being applied to properties compassing them within a parody of it had an impact on the way they worked Ed Zazzali speaks to the township council last week after receiving a resolution of tee, said he asked the DWC at a De- in the SID. Mr. Gildea replied that tax “’Twas The Night Before Christmas.” together the past two years. Mr. Strauss appreciation for his 15 years of service. cember 15 finance committee meet- appeals have impacted the total amount The mayor touched upon the mu- called the mayor “a strong leader” ing to apply some of its 2008 surplus of taxes collected in the district. nicipal building renovations, new ball who was “dedicated to the town.” to the 2009 budget “to create tax A chart compiled by Ms. Cronin fields and the renovations to the parks, Mayor-elect Nancy Malool called Retiring Rec Commission relief for our ailing downtown busi- showed total property valuations in the upgraded Scotch Plains Televi- Mrs. Coronato a “passionate advo- nesses/property owners” and to uti- the SID dropping from a high of sion station, improvements at the cate for the people of Scotch Plains” Director Zazzali Looks Back lize the same funds “to increase pro- $91,631,200 in 2004 to $87,417,000 Scotch Plains Public Library, where, and told Mayor Marks that he had motions to help businesses, while not in 2008. Mr. Gildea said he antici- he said, “under Director [Meg] “represented us so well.” Council- By FRED T. ROSSI and The Times, Mr. Zazzali was un- increasing the SID (Special Improve- pates this trend would continue in Kolaya, circulation numbers keep man Kevin Glover was absent from Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times able to pinpoint one specific achieve- ment District) tax for this purpose.” 2009, and that the impact of 2008 getting hiya and hiya [higher and last Tuesday’s meeting. SCOTCH PLAINS — As he wraps ment as being bigger than any other. Instead, he said, the DWC has ear- appeals would affect the rate prop- higher]” and the township volunteers, The council’s reorganization meet- up 11 years as chairman of the “But I can tell you, it was always fun marked the money, thus removing the erty owners will be charged in 2009. who he said were “all worth a toast.” ing will be held today, January 1, at 1 township’s recreation commission, Ed to accomplish any goal when others opportunity for it to be used to help The assessment rate has risen from The mayor concluded, “So to those p.m., Mrs. Malool will be sworn in as Zazzali, in considering the main felt it would be impossible to do,” he downtown property owners struggling 0.434 percent in 2006 to 0.447 per- watching from home and those clearly mayor, while Mary DePaola will be- achievements of his tenure, points to said. in the current economy. “And that cent in 2008. in sight, thank you for letting me be gin her four-year term on the council. the establishment nine years ago of He said the township’s open space was a very unsympathetic response,” Commenting on creating a budget your mayor and…Merry Christmas It is expected that Dominick Bratti the township’s open space trust fund, trust fund “definitely gave us the abil- he said. “That money belongs to the without an increase, Board Chairman to all, and to all a good night.” After a will be selected to fill Mrs. Malool’s the more recent development of the ity to enhance the dollars spent on [downtown] taxpayers. It’s not DWC Dominick Verdic said, “I believe we standing ovation from his fellow coun- council seat. first lit and artificial turf fields and recreation opportunities in town be- money.” gave back by holding the line of the cil members and the few dozen resi- the ongoing shared recreation efforts cause we could maximize dollars He said the council’s finance com- budget for four years.” dents in attendance, including former Dog Licenses Due between Scotch Plains, Fanwood and spent with matching grants that were mittee has requested that independent Town Councilman Frank Arena, the mayors William McClintock, Gabe the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of available.” boards, such as the DWC, the recre- council’s liaison to the DWC, re- Spera and Mauro Checchio, former For 2009 in January Education. Mr. Zazzali said that working with ation commission and the Westfield sponded, “I agree with you, Dominick, township manager Thomas Atkins, GARWOOD — The Borough of Mr. Zazzali, whose third five-year Fanwood, the board of education and Memorial Library Board of Directors, four years in a row, very responsible.” former councilman Frank Rossi and Garwood has announced that dog li- term on the commission expires to- Union County “has brought tremen- use their surplus in 2009 “in order to According to documents released Mr. Marks’ wife and two children, the censes are due during January. All dogs day, January 1, told The Westfield dous value to each entity.” reduce property tax increases.” at the December 22 meeting, the most mayor moved for adjournment. in the borough must be licensed. To Leader and The Scotch Plains- And he added that, “having a few Mr. Caruana said in an e-mail that significant changes in the budget are Earlier, at the December 23 meet- obtain or renew a license, visit the mu- Fanwood Times he is leaving “be- lighted fields for the community to the DWC board voted instead to “re- a reduction of $10,000 in the allot- ing, Mrs. Coronato thanked township nicipal clerk’s office in the municipal cause it is the right time to go. I never enjoy for multiple sports functions strict surplus to future capital improve- ment for façade renovation grants, voters for twice electing her to the building at 403 South Avenue, Monday thought I would stay this long.” He gives me great satisfaction because I ments, thus making any portion of it halving that line item to $10,000. The council and also thanked the profes- through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. said career and family obligations are never had this growing up in Scotch unavailable to provide tax relief to its regional advertising program will also sional staff, describing them as “won- Proof of rabies vaccination is re- taking more time. “I really don’t feel Plains.” He called the development of constituents in 2009 or thereafter.” be cut from $48,000 to $38,000, with derful, capable and very competent.” quired. The vaccine must cover the like I am leaving [the commission],” the township’s first artificial turf fields Councilman Caruana said he found the remaining $10,000 diverted to a Mrs. Coronato said she would con- first 10 months of the licensing year. he said, “just giving others in the “a monumental effort.” “both the urgency and timing of this new “economic slowdown program.” tinue to serve on the planning board, Fees for 2009 are $17.20 for spayed/ community the opportunity to bring “To see where we are today cer- move are highly suspicious.” The promotional program imple- where she will be able to continue neutered dogs and $20.20 for non- fresh ideas to Scotch Plains.” tainly gives us a sense of achieve- DWC Executive Director Sherry mentation line item is set to rise by addressing the affordable housing spayed/non-neutered dogs. Dogs must At last week’s township council ment, and if I was a small part of that, Cronin said the surplus dates back to $3,000, to $51,872. The DWC said it mandates that first got her involved in be licensed by January 31, and all meeting, Mr. Zazzali was saluted by so be it,” Mr. Zazzali said. 2004, when an audit revealed the town anticipates a reduction of interest in- local politics more than 20 years ago. unlicensed dogs are subject to fines council members and leaders of local When asked if he had any regrets or had missed a payment of taxes col- come from $9,500 to $7,500, which Prior to Mr. Marks’ and Mrs. issued by the Garwood Police De- youth sports leagues. Former town- wished that certain issues had been lected for the DWC. She said rather will be partially offset by a $500 Coronato’s remarks, both were sa- partment. Additionally, dogs licensed ship manager Thomas Atkins, who addressed, Mr. Zazzali said he had none. than spend all of the money, the DWC anticipated rise in rental of the DWC’s luted by several township officials, after January 31, will be charged a $5 first appointed Mr. Zazzali to his rec- “It took incredible cooperation with has invested the money in Certificates conference room. Officials also said past and present. Mr. Atkins, who late fee. For more information, call reation commission post 15 years ago, multiple entities to achieve what we of Deposit to generate interest income. they expected that the operating bud- retired in September after 28 years, (908) 789-0710. said, “No volunteer that I worked have done these past 15 years. There She said the DWC has used the get carryover, which was $2,230 in called Mr. Marks “the best mayor I with worked harder and did more for was many a frustrating day when I surplus and interest to offset increases 2008, will disappear. ever worked with” and said he “can’t Mirabella to Serve as the community” than Mr. Zazzali. thought efforts were going to be wasted, in operating expenses while also keep- Employee costs are slated to rise imagine the governing body of this Mike Dempsey, president of the but somehow we found a way to make ing funds available for a $315,000 $3,300, to $141,500, with indirect town not having Marty Marks.” Freeholder Chairman Scotch Plains-Fanwood Youth Base- it work.” He said patience is required payment to the town for the southside costs also rising by slightly over $900, Mr. Rossi, who served with both ELIZABETH — Union County ball Association, called Mr. Zazzali a “when you are trying to get things done streetscape and other projects. but more than offset by a $1,145 Mrs. Coronato and Mr. Marks, said Freeholder Chairman-elect Al “true leader,” while Andy Weber of in municipal government. It takes per- Town Administrator Jim Gildea reduction in employee benefits. A they “truly represent the best of this Mirabella will announce his initiatives the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Lacrosse sistence, and sometimes pushing harder said the DWC agreed to pay half of reduction of nearly two-thirds is slated community” and pointed to their “pas- during the board’s reorganization meet- Club thanked Mr. Zazzali for his ef- was a recipe for failure.” the cost of the improvement projects, for the community relations line item. sion, commitment, dedication and ing this Sunday, January 4, at 1 p.m. in forts in getting the new program up He said, “Most people think deci- which is slated to be done this year. The annual reorganization meet- love” for the township. Scotch Plains- the chambers of Superior Court Judge and running. sions were made in a vacuum, but we The town plans to go to bid for the ing for the DWC has been scheduled Fanwood Board of Education Presi- Walter Barisonek at the county court- Jim Fawcett, president of the Scotch always listened to what the commu- work, estimated at $600,000, by the for Thursday, January 29, and deter- dent Trip Whitehouse thanked them house. Plains-Fanwood Soccer Association, nity was saying. That was the beauty end of the month. mination of the rest of the meeting for “your advocacy for the school Freeholders Angel Estrada, Nancy said that while the young players may of a volunteer commission. We al- Ms. Cronin said if the DWC was to schedule will be made at the reorga- district and our students.” Ward and Rick Proctor will be sworn in “not realize how fortunate they are to ways tried to keep the political ideas appropriate all of the funds rather than nization meeting. It is expected that Township Attorney Brian Levine for new terms, and Dan Sullivan will have a person like Ed representing out of our decisions because we roll over unspent monies, the DWC the board will choose to eliminate the said the word “passion” came to mind serve as freeholder vice-chairman. them, we do,” referring to the parents, wanted to do things in the best inter- might not have enough funds to repay August meeting, cutting the number the coaches and others involved in est of all.” the town for the streetscape work and of meetings to 11 in 2009. running the program. Mr. Zazzali said it was difficult to Township Parks and Recreation “understand or appreciate the level of Director Ray Poerio called Mr. detail we evaluate before deciding if Zazzali “a mentor to me, an ex- a project was worth the taxpayer dol- NJ Parents Seek Choice ample to my staff and the perfect lars involved. It was always a group boss.” Mr. Poerio presented Mr. effort with our commission, the town Zazzali with a framed montage of council and the town manager.” On Mandatory Immunizations photographs of the various recre- Summing up, Mr. Zazzali said he SPRINGFIELD – State legisla- “As a parent, I should have a say as ation projects completed over the was “honored that someone had tors are taking a close look at the to what is injected into my child; past eight years, including Memo- enough faith in me to be considered Conscientious Exemption to Man- especially when several of the cur- rial Park, the miniature golf facility for a role on the commission.” He datory Immunization, Assembly bill rent mandated vaccines are contro- at the Scotch Hills Country Club, said working with Mr. Atkins “gave no. 260 and Senate bill no. 1071, versial. Parents should have a vac- the Jerseyland Park expansion and me a newfound appreciation for work- after being pressured by an increas- cine choice,” Ms. Sewald said. the renovations at several other ing in municipal government,” while ing number of parents concerned The discussion comes at a time parks and ballfields. “having Recreation Director Ray about the health risks of too many when many parents are discovering Councilman Jeffrey Strauss, the Poerio here to lead us through several shots for children. that their children attending day care governing body’s liaison to the recre- exciting projects for the community On Tuesday, January 13, at 6:15 or preschool are required to receive ation commission, told Mr. Zazzali was a gift I will always treasure.” But p.m., at Presbyterian Church in the flu shot. that township residents “owe you a now, he concluded, “it is time to pass Springfield, the New Jersey Chapter Parents are concerned about au- debt of gratitude.” the torch to new ideas, and a new of the Holistic Moms Network, will tism. In New Jersey one in 60 boys Speaking this week to The Leader commitment to the town.” host Habakus who will lead a semi- and one in 94 children has autism — nar on informed consent in vaccina- the highest rate ever documented in tion entitled, “A Vaccination Semi- the U.S. Walter Zahorodny, a psy- nar: What Choices Do Parents chologist at the University of Medi- Helping Accident Have?” cine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Valeri Sewald of Westfield is help- said of his recent study for the CDC ing to organize the seminar. She is the on autism rates in the state that “this Victims Everyday mother of two children and a member should be understood as a public of the Holistic Moms Network. health crisis.”

JANUARY 2009 EVENTS at the Westfield Memorial Library Library Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM Friday and Saturday 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Closed 1/1/09 for New Year’s Day & 1/19/09 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day ADULT PROGRAMS 1/2 No TGIF! 1/7 10:00 am Computer Class: Genealogy on the Internet 1/7 7:00 pm Digital TV Transition Seminar 1/9 1:30 pm TGIF! Travel the Alps 1/13 10:00 am New Computer Class: Email Basics 1/14 7:00 pm Non-Fiction Book Club: The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama JON BRAMNICK 1/15 7:00 pm New Computer Class: Intro to Google Docs 1/16 1:30 pm TGIF! The Women of Tin Pan Alley Certified Civil Trial Attorney 1/23 1:30 pm TGIF! Clark Gable 1/28 7:00 pm Peter Biedermann, guitarist 30 Years Experience 1/30 1:30 pm TGIF! Classic Movie Week: “His Gal Friday” recognized as a “Super Lawyer” CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS in the field of Personal Injury Law 1/13, 20, 27 1:30 pm PreSchool Storytime (ages 3½ to 5) BRAMNICK, RODRIGUEZ, 1/13, 27 3:45 pm Big Kids’ Storytime (Elementary school age) MITTERHOFF, GRABAS & WOODRUFF LLC 1/14, 21, 28 10:00 am Toddler Time (Babies to age 2½) 1/14, 28 3:45 pm After School Book Bunch! (grades 2, 3, 4) 1827 East Second Street, Scotch Plains 1/15, 22, 29 10:00 am Tots’ Storytime (ages 2½ to 3 ½) 908-322-7000 1/16, 23, 30 10:00 am PreSchool Storytime (ages 3½ to 5) www.jonbramnick.com 1/22, 26, 27 7–10 pm Mid-Term Study Nights (Note extended hours) Some programs have restrictions regarding pre-registration or age. Can Be Reached 24 Hours a Day in an Emergency 550 East Broad Street, Westfield, NJ 07090 www.wmlnj.org A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 3 Merkt and Biondi: COAH is POLICE BLOTTER GOP Threatens Lawsuit for ‘The Grinch’ This Christmas Release of Budget Documents TRENTON — Assemblymen Rich- release, on December 23, DCA Com- Westfield fake set of earrings and a ring for $20,000 TRENTON — State Senate Re- get, as is constitutionally required. ard Merkt (LD-25, Mendham) and Peter missioner Joseph Doria sent a letter Thursday, December 18, Cecilia at a Westfield jewelry shop. According publicans have vowed to go to court The GOP said the December 2, 2008 Biondi (LD-16, Somerville) on Decem- to the League of Municipalities deny- Rivera, 26, of Westfield was arrested to police, the jewelry shop had no in- for the immediate release of budget OPRA request that is the subject of ber 24 criticized a decision by the Coun- ing the request for an extension of the after responding to police headquarters volvement in the sale. Police said the documents by Governor Jon Corzine. the complaint was one of several at- cil on Affordable Housing (COAH) to December 31 deadline. In May, to satisfy a Westfield traffic warrant man, a jeweler, was shown the gold and The complaint notes that there is a tempts they have made to obtain in- reject requests to extend the December COAH decreed that 115,000 more with bail of $150. She was released diamond jewelry at a jewelry show in constitutional requirement that the formation necessary to “formulate after cash bail was posted. Clark by two men. On Saturday, Decem- expenditures of the state not exceed its legislative policy to address the state’s 31 deadline for towns to submit plans in affordable-housing units be built Friday, December 19, Marcel ber 27, at around 1:30 p.m. the seller and compliance with the state’s new afford- throughout the state, assigning arbi- revenues and that Governor Corzine declining fiscal situation.” Moyano, 25, of Westfield was arrested the victim met at a jewelry store in has acknowledged drops in revenue According to the complaint, the Fis- able housing mandates. trary quotas for every town to meet. after a motor vehicle stop at Central Westfield to better examine the pieces “On the eve of Christmas, COAH “Since then, local officials have been Avenue and Laurel Place on an out- and at some point a switch was made for that meet or exceed the planned sur- cal Year 2009 budget of $33.5 billion, has donned its Grinch costume and searching for ways to comply with standing Edison traffic warrant. He was the phony set. The victim said the seller plus for the current fiscal year. approved this past summer, listed rev- dropped a lump of coal into the stock- COAH’s mandate by the deadline.” released after posting $165 bail. was driving a black sport utility vehicle “We intend to file the attached com- enue projections of $32.9 billion, but ings of taxpayers throughout New Mr. Merkt and Mr. Biondi are the Saturday, December 20, Tito Garcia, with North or South Carolina plates. The plaint with the Superior Court next that on November 12, the Governor Jersey,” Mr. Merkt said. “This is just sponsors of legislation, A-3570, that 22, of Garwood was arrested at Garwood case is still under investigation. Wednesday [December 31] unless you announced that “collections would be more evidence that COAH is a tone- seeks to abolish COAH and put an police headquarters on outstanding traf- Fanwood immediately provide documents $1.2 billion less than projected.” deaf bureaucracy that is irreparably end to what they described as a “poorly fic warrants from Westfield, with $614 Tuesday, December 23, Guillermo showing what funds you have placed The complaint was made by Senate broken and should be abolished.” thought-out, unworkable and costly” bail, and Seaside Heights, with $140 Mejia, 46, of Elizabeth was arrested on in reserve to address a planned $600 Republican Leader Tom Kean, Jr. and “The rules created by COAH will affordable housing system. “COAH bail. He was released after posting bail. an outstanding Keansburg warrant af- million budget surplus that has be- Senate Budget and Appropriations drive up property taxes, consume open is a bureaucracy run amuck and can- Saturday, December 27, Bryan ter a motor vehicle stop on South Av- come at least a $600 million deficit Committee members Anthony Bucco, space and forever change the charac- not be fixed by simply by drafting Carolan, 22, of Rahway was arrested at enue. He was processed and released. due to a $1.2 billion decline in rev- Kevin O’Toole, Steven Oroho and ter of the towns forced to comply with new regulations.” Westfield police headquarters on an Wednesday, December 24, Jaime E. enues,” according to a letter sent to Philip Haines, and will be filed in these new housing mandates,” Mr. “COAH has imposed impossible outstanding Westfield traffic warrant Karnilaw, 23, of Warren was arrested the Governor by the GOP on Decem- state Superior Court. Biondi said. “This decision shows that regulations and excessive costs on with bail of $163. He was released after and charged with driving while intoxi- ber 26. “We have repeatedly asked In their letter to the Governor, the COAH has absolutely no concern for towns and taxpayers,” Mr. Biondi posting bail. cated (DWI) after a motor vehicle stop for these documents because we want Senators stated, “Please understand, these towns or for the taxpayers who said. “The only way to effectively Friday, December, 26, a man from on North Avenue. He was processed assurances that you are adequately we do not take legal action lightly, will be affected by this decision.” solve this problem is to abolish Voorhees reported that he was sold a and released to his mother. preparing for revenue losses and the especially in the midst of the holiday According to the lawmakers’ press COAH.” more than $100 million in new spend- season. But we have been left no choice ing legislation you signed in the last to follow through on this course of Acting Commissioner Says several weeks.” action unless you finally release what Doria Responds to COAH At the same time, the GOP con- are obviously public documents.” tends that Mr. Corzine has continued In response, Robert Corrales, a DEP Making NJ Greener to sign new appropriations into law spokesman for Mr. Corzine, was Deadline Extension Calls TRENTON — From taking steps In early 2009, the DEP will release without indicating how those appro- quoted by the Star-Ledger as saying, TRENTON – New Jersey Commu- COAH for a waiver of a particular to address global warming to build- a draft Statewide Water Supply Plan priations will be funded. “This is a governor who did away with nity Affairs Commissioner Joseph regulatory requirement provided that ing solid foundations for protection that will serve as a road map for the Members of the Senate Republican bad budget practices like Christmas Doria sent the following letter on criteria set forth in the waiver regula- of natural resources such as water management, regulation, conserva- caucus said they have repeatedly re- tree items and 11th-hourbudgets. This December 23 to William Dressel, ex- tion are satisfied. This waiver option supplies and wildlife habitats, the tion and development of water sup- quested documents from the Gover- is far from opaque and much more ecutive director of the New Jersey has been available to any town that administration of Governor Jon plies. Strategies include implement- nor that would demonstrate steps he transparent than the process before State League of Municipalities: believes it cannot meet the deadline Corzine is making strides toward a ing regulatory controls at the state has taken to maintain a balanced bud- Governor Corzine took office.” “I am writing regarding your re- and whose request meets the criteria. greener and more sustainable future level, supporting new or expanded quest that the Council on Affordable “We have given serious thought and for New Jersey’s residents, according supply sources when needed, encour- Housing (COAH) hold an emergency consideration to your request but have to Department of Environmental Pro- aging local conservation efforts, and Scotch Plains SID Board meeting to extend the December 31 determined that an across-the-board tection (DEP) acting Commissioner promoting reuse of treated wastewa- deadline for submitting revised third extension of the deadline would not be Mark Mauriello. ter for irrigation and other non-po- round plans. As you know, the De- consistent with COAH’s statutory ob- “At the DEP, we are moving for- table uses. Holds its First Meeting cember 31 deadline, which is set forth ligations under the Fair Housing Act. ward on this vision through efforts The DEP said it has adopted major By FRED T. ROSSI organization, promotions and design in regulations adopted by COAH ear- “As we have stated, COAH is com- that firmly establish New Jersey as a revisions to its Water Quality Man- Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times — were set up at the initial meeting lier this year, applies only to a portion mitted to continuing to work coop- national leader on evolving 21st cen- agement rules to bolster agency over- SCOTCH PLAINS — The first meet- on December 11, and volunteers are of the municipalities in the state. The eratively with municipal officials in tury issues such as climate change sight of sewer service areas, thereby ing of the board of directors of the new being sought to fill those committees. deadline applies only to those towns the planning process, and that coop- and sustainable development, but re- improving water quality and protect- Special Improvement District (SID) was Once that and other organizational that previously participated in eration certainly will continue as we main true to our traditional core re- ing natural resources. The rules steer held earlier this month, with James work is completed, Mr. Watson said COAH’s original third round or that move forward.” sponsibilities to protect the environ- development to areas that have exist- Watson of EKA Associates chosen to the board will look into hiring a man- voluntarily chose to file plans before ment and public health,” Mr. ing sewerage systems and prevent be the board’s first chairman. ager for the downtown. He said he the court and thereby continue to REPORTERS NEEDED Mauriello said. this infrastructure from being built in He said Sherry Cronin, executive di- also wants to survey all the busi- maintain protection against ‘builder’s Current openings for reporters He said New Jersey would con- ecologically sensitive areas such as rector of the Downtown Westfield Cor- nesses within the SID borders. “For remedy’ lawsuits. Published reports to cover town council, BOE, tinue to play a “leading role” in the wetlands, forests and critical wildlife poration (DWC), had provided “a lot of now, we’re just trying to get every- indicate that over 200 of the towns to and recreation commission Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, habitats. help” to the nascent Scotch Plains SID, body enthused about it,” he added. which the deadline applies have re- meetings. We seek community- a cooperative effort of 10 states in the The rules also provide for better and added that he wanted the Scotch Besides Mr. Watson, other officers cently taken action to approve re- minded, detail-oriented writers Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions regional planning by consolidat- Plains SID to follow the model set out by include vice-chairman Jeff vised plans, or are poised to do so with professional demeanor to reduce emissions of carbon diox- ing water quality planning respon- The National Trust Main Street Center, Kowalcyzk, treasurer Ted Schiller, over the next couple of days. needed. Must be able to meet ide from power plants. Last week, sibilities at the county level in- which the DWC and other downtowns assistant treasurer Steve Goldberg, “We recognize the time and effort deadlines, know how to write a New Jersey participated in the stead of being done by munici- have followed in revitalizing their cen- secretary Shana Coelho and assistant that is required for the planning pro- lead, and take an active interest initiative’s carbon dioxide credit auc- palities and local utility authori- tral business districts. secretary Greg Bisson. cess, and COAH has worked with in a regular beat in order to tion, known as a cap-and-trade pro- ties. “I am trying to steal all that I can The next board of directors meet- many towns to provide information develop news stories. Great for gram. This program aims to stabilize In August, the Permit Efficiency from them,” Mr. Watson said. ing will be held on Thursday, January and assistance in that process. COAH stay-at-home moms, a second carbon dioxide emissions through Review Task Force, a panel made Four committees — economics, 15, at 7 p.m. at The Stage House Inn. also has issued guidance that ad- income or just for those who 2014 and reduce emissions 10 per- up of business and environmental dresses some of the significant con- love to write. E-mail resume cent by 2018. leaders, planners and others, re- cerns that have been raised about the and clips to: In addition, the DEP will hold a leased a report recommending the For All Your Business, Tax growth share impact of new residen- [email protected] series of public meetings in January DEP simplify the regulatory pro- tial construction. to solicit input on a draft plan that cess, better allocate limited re- & Financial Needs “As to the deadline, COAH’s regu- The Westfield Leader & provides a blueprint for meeting New sources, and improve communica- lations provide the opportunity for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Jersey’s greenhouse gas reduction tions with the public and regulated individual municipalities to apply to TIMES targets. community. Richard J. Kaplow, Esq. “25 Years Experience” Civil & Criminal Trial Lawyer FAMILY LAW · Divorce · Domestic Violence · Custody · Child Support

· DWI · Criminal Defense · Business Disputes Commercial Litigation Former Assistant Union County Prosecutor Call for an appointment Visit our website at: www.sg-cpas.com (908) 232-8787 282 South Avenue, Suite 103 Fanwood New Jersey, 07023 24 Hours 53 Elm Street, Westfield, NJ 07090 · Tel: 908-889-9500 [email protected] richardjkaplow.com

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-&&PHPEHUVKLSGXHVEHJLQ)HEUXDU\XQOHVV WKH0HPEHU6HUYLFHV'LUHFWRULVQRWL¿HGE\-DQXDU\ •VALUE – Quality & Luxury, we invest in our 0HPEHUVKLSUHQHZVRQ$XJXVWDQQXDOO\3URPRWLRQ Wilf Jewish Community Campus SDUWLFLSDQWVUHFHLYHD³SDVV´DOORZLQJDFFHVVWRWKHIDFLOLW\ product, not the hype. 1391 Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 DQGPHPEHURQO\SURJUDPV1RWYDOLGIRUFDPSRU ZZZMFFQMRUJ SUHVFKRROIXOOGD\NLQGHUJDUWHQUHJLVWUDWLRQXQWLO)HEUXDU\ Page 4 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader The Scotch Plains–Fanwood 2008 Government — Established 1890 — Times Since 1959 Legal Newspaper for the Town of Westfield, Legal Newspaper for the Borough of Fanwood Boroughs of Mountainside and Garwood And the Township of Scotch Plains Reform Thoughts And the County of Union, NJ. Members of: Each week in 2008, editors of The Westfield Leader and real and lasting would be done about the energy crisis. New Jersey Press Association • National Newspaper Association • Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times posted government 19-Jun-2008: The federal government must address the Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association • Fanwood Business & Professional Association reform thoughts on the Internet in response to events at that huge hike in gasoline prices with a united political com- Periodicals – Postage Paid at Westfield, New Jersey Periodicals – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, New Jersey moment. Below are the cumulative thoughts. mitment to energy development. This will curtail specula- P.O. Box 250 • 251 North Avenue, West P. O. Box 368 3-Jan-2008: Politicians and government must promote tors and eventually yield a strengthened energy position. Westfield, N.J. 07091 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 the act of voting and citizens’ participation; otherwise the Meanwhile, the government must encourage conservation system could spiral to invalidation. and renewable energy options. Tele: (908) 232-4407 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.goleader.com • Fax: (908) 232-0473 10-Jan-2008: The initiatives of incoming Freeholder 26-Jun-2008: As the New Jersey legislature has proven POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at Chairman Angel Estrada, announced at the Union County that it is unable or unwilling to implement pension reform, P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091 freeholders’ January 6 reorganization meeting, lacked any we believe the voters must decide the issue with a referen- Published every Thursday by Watchung Communications, Inc. fiscal proposals such as reducing the county tax levy. dum in the November General Election. Fiscal responsibility needs to be front and center, not new 3-Jul-2008: No government executive, official or school Paul Peyton Horace R. Corbin Fred K. Lecomte ways to get re-elected. personnel shall receive a pay raise or increase in compen- ASSIGNMENT EDITOR PUBLISHER MARKETING DIRECTOR 17-Jan-2008: The National Surface Transportation Policy sation of any form unless taxes are reduced. Suzette F. Stalker David B. Corbin Michael L. Bartiromo and Revenue Commission has recommended an increase 10-Jul-2008: The state must make a concerted effort to COMMUNITY ASSISTANT PUBLISHER & SPORTS MARKETING PRODUCTION Michael Pollack Karen M. Hinds Robert P. Connelly in the federal gasoline tax of 25 cents to 40 cents per gallon ensure that shared services grants to counties and towns EDUCATION & ARTS OFFICE MANAGER OPERATIONS & LEGALS over the next five years to fund the nation’s transportation result in real savings for taxpayers and not just shared Ben Corbin system. Given Governor Jon Corzine’s recommendation services conferences and discussions. SERVICES to increase tolls in New Jersey 200 percent over the next 14 17-Jul-2008: With property tax bills containing huge SUBSCRIPTION PRICE www.goleader.com/subscribe years, we believe the voters should make the final decision increases and going out in the next few weeks, our State One-year – $28 • Two-year – $52 • Three-year – $76 • One-year college (September to May) – $20 on any more taxes. Legislature is going to have to take a closer look at this 24-Jan-2008: The governor has challenged anyone to issue or the number of people moving out of New Jersey present an alternative to his preposterous (in our view), is going to face dramatic proportions. $45 billion, sell the Turnpike plan. The GOP is silent. Do 24-Jul-2008: As tax bills are about to be mailed, a look Happy New Year Everyone, Take they not have a plan? Is everything now a done deal with at tax rates on the state’s website shows a dramatic jump the details being completed today while the governor is in over the past few years. Administrators are either going to Switzerland? have to cut their own salaries, as well as department The Challenge Put Forth for 2009 31-Jan-2008: We believe New Jersey should change its directors, or merge with surrounding towns if New Jersey system for Primary Elections to allow voters, regardless of truly intends to stabilize property taxes. The beginning of a new year is a chance for us all know. Don’t fall into the trap of “me first” or “women political affiliation, to vote in either Democratic or Repub- 31-Jul-2008: A forgotten concept - “Elected officials to put the woes of the past year behind us and to and children be dammed.” lican races. The only rule should be that they could vote should be held accountable should they violate the public restart with new dreams and fresh goals – to be Will we correct our course in 2009, or continue to only once. Voters also should not be listed as affiliated after trust.” positive, regardless of how disgruntled one may be. be saddled by denial from our leadership? It is up to voting in primaries. 7-Aug-2008: The practice of wheeling campaign funds Many people are upset this year, admittedly for us – you and me to demand it. Do not stand for the 7-Feb-2008: It seems that moving the Presidential Pri- should be brought to an end. Wheeling is where money is good reason. The economic fraud and corruption doom and gloom or let them manipulate your fears. mary to February was popular with New Jersey voters, transferred throughout a political party, candidate or Po- uncovered in 2008 has been staggering – it’s being Be careful whom you trust, many say. Your friend, given Tuesday’s high voter turnout. It was one of the litical Action Committee and sent to other candidates. We labeled “The Year That the Thieves Stole the World.” your governor, your executive too could be a Madoff reforms from last year that worked. believe this distorts the electoral process and impedes The enigma remains – are they still stealing it? with a Ponzi scheme. Unfortunately, we learned 14-Feb-2008: With the announcement this week that citizens’ ability to choose their elected officials. Someone’s using your money and calling it a bail- there are more bad guys out there than we imagined. Mountainside Chief School Administrator Richard 14-Aug-2008: When an official does something right, O’Malley is resigning for another superintendent’s post, the press should acknowledge it. Case in point: Although out – sort of like holding one hostage saying the So, how is it possible to look into the future with a the district should now consider merging with either stopped for speeding, N.J. Attorney General Anne Milgram world will come to an end unless the ransom is paid. positive vision? Think back over the last year and Berkeley Heights or Westfield to reduce administrative did not use her influence or make her position known to the And how many times will the ransom demand be remember the many good people you know and trust. costs. Under the new job description for the Union County officer. She just paid the ticket. placed? Join with them and their values. Resist the tempta- superintendent of schools, a state position, Carmen 21-Aug-2008: Union County Democrats selected a re- So, how does one be positive? As a starter, one tion when coming under stress to default to the easy Centoulo has been directed to look at merging K-8 districts placement for disgraced Asm. Neil Cohen, who resigned. could positively go after the thieves. Let’s do that. path of deceit. with K-12 districts to reduce administrative overhead. They did so behind closed doors, not open to the public. In And for the future, offer no quarter to the slicksters. We need to stand up and see to it that a large portion 21-Feb-2008: Union County, municipal and school gov- that the replacement supposedly represents all the people, Give no praise to the conmen who bamboozle the of good people are involved with the affairs of the ernments are in the process of releasing budgets for 2008. we believe the meeting should be public. We also would globe. Praise the honest Joe. world. It is no longer possible to sit idly by and Given the fiscal crisis in our state government, local like to know where is Neil Cohen and why haven’t charges The world, the country and the local towns must overlook the acts of the bad. governments must reduce their expenditures. We hope been filed. Why is all this a secret? layoffs are avoided by reducing the salaries of the highest 28-Aug-2008: We thought it was illegal for elected sacrifice in 2009, as a result of the sins of fraud built So, take the challenge put forth for 2009. Happy paid employees instead. officials to use public resources for electioneering pur- up from the past. How deep is the malaise? Few New Year everyone. 28-Feb-2008: Now that Governor Jon Corzine has set an poses. That’s why we question New Jersey Governor Jon example by actually reducing spending by $500 million Corzine’s use of the government website for praising the from last year, it is now time for our local school boards, selection of Sen. Biden by Sen. Obama - which concludes Letters to the Editor municipal, and county governments to follow suit. by stating “Joe Biden will be a great partner in Barack 6-Mar-2008: Governor Corzine announced in his fiscal Obama’s efforts to bring about change in America.” See year 2009 budget plans to cut 3,000 state employees. We state.nj.us/governor/news/news/2008/approved/ WHS Concert Was Beautiful and See More Letters believe that the first to be considered should be the ones 20080823a.html. On Page 5 with the highest salaries (over $100,000) and those with 4-Sep-2008: Now that the presidential and vice-presi- Reflective of the Christmas Season To Reach Us multiple jobs such as county and state. dential candidates are known, the campaigns must focus I’d like to respond to a letter published songs and yes, plenty of beautiful Hanukah E-Mail - [email protected] 13-Mar-2008: Governor Corzine has decided to balance on the key issues of stimulating the economy and develop- in last week’s paper expressing chagrin songs, some sung in Hebrew. Phone - (908) 232-4407 the state budget on the backs of small towns with popula- ment of an energy policy, and not on the personal lives of that a local Westfield Elementary School I can certainly understand the writer’s tions of under 10,000. This includes Fanwood, Garwood the candidates and their families. did not include meaningful Christmas disappointment that his child’s elemen- For more information, see and Mountainside. We believe this is a shortsighted ap- 11-Sep-2008: We believe political parties should be Carols in the Holiday Concert. tary school neglected to include songs www.goleader.com/help proach as these towns are already sharing costs such as required to file and publish biographies of their candidates Two weeks ago, Westfield High School that expressed the true meaning of Christ- school districts and board of health services. More must be on the Internet. Too often, local candidates run for office performed the annual Choral Concert and mas. However, I can assure him that this done to reign in state costs such as salaries over six figures with little or no information on their backgrounds pro- I’m pleased to report that the program, does not occur across the board in and the chopping of additional departments. vided to the public. consisted of quite a few non-secular Westfield, and that the High School Con- Thank You Good Christmas carols. In fact, both holidays cert was as beautiful and reflective of the 20-Mar-2008: The Union County Executive Superinten- 18-Sep-2008: The wizards of Wall Street, bankers and were amply represented in this program season as it could possibly be. Samaritans, Special dent of Schools is in charge of looking at school budgets and executives have collected obscene bonuses and dumped rejecting them when they are over cap and have excessive the trash on the taxpayer. After the financial chaos sub- which included “Lo, How a Rose E’er Debbie Parente-Rosin Angels Last Week Blooming,” as well as other Christmas Westfield non-instructional spending. Who is the budget czar that does sides, we need to find a way back to fundamental monetary My horror took place on Tuesday the same for county and municipal spending? practices. No more smoke and mirrors please; and throw evening, December 23. As I exited my 27-Mar-2008: With the state cutting municipal aid to the buggers in jail. I Don’t Begrudge Mr. Savickas car, I literally slid across the icy parking towns, the time has come for discussions on changing 25-Sep-2008: Anything we might say now pales in lot on Elmer Street. Within seconds, a most supportive, nameless, gentleman was government budgets from one-year to two-year spending comparison to what’s going on now in Washington D.C. His Objection; but… at my side to rescue me from my seated plans, with half the towns’ budgets coming up every other over the world financial scandal and crisis. I read Ed Savickas’ letter, “Shameful his protest, I fear, is the suggestion that position on the ice. year. This would enable towns to share administrators 2-Oct-2008: Given the magnitude of the nation’s cur- How Public Education Reduces Christ- local Jews somehow have managed to Seconds later, he had assistance from while also reducing the burdensome task of budget talks rent financial crisis, John McCain and Barack Obama need mas Importance,” as polarizing, and exercise disproportionate control of the Fred, Bob and Stephanie. I now know that often take up a quarter of every year by local governing to let the American people know the type of individuals, if worse, harboring anti-Semitic undertones. performance agenda in the school. there are angels who enter your life when bodies. not their names, of persons they intend to nominate for Mr. Savickas complains that the chil- Mr. Savickas’ language is divisive and you least expect it, and do what they can 3-Apr-2008: If Governor Jon Corzine really wanted to treasury secretary and other key cabinet-level posts. The dren in his daughter’s elementary school, disunifying, pitting Christians against to let you know they care. I do hope these lower property taxes in New Jersey, he would move the next President is only going to be as successful as the in a recent holiday concert, enjoyed more Jews; worse, it stokes archaic, danger- people will recognize their presence, and county jails under the jurisdiction of the state’s corrections people he has running these departments. freedom to sing about the meaning of ously stereotypical views of Jews as seek- let me thank them personally. I am for- Hanukkah than about “the true meaning ing, deviously if necessary, to establish ever grateful. department. A decade ago, state superior court judges were 9-Oct-2008: The pork-stuffed 700 billion dollar bailout of Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ.” their advantage over gentile majorities. I must also credit the staff at Complete moved from county to state payrolls, yet the county jails, of Wall Street from Washington has shown us, once again, In elaborating his complaint, he finds it I don’t begrudge Mr. Savickas his ob- Care, on East Second Street in Scotch along with the courthouses and correctional officers, all why future presidents must be given the Line Item Veto. necessary to draw attention to Jewish jection; but its form troubled me. And I Plains. Dr. Richard Schaller, nurse remained within the county budgets. Let’s put fiscal responsibility ahead of partisan politics. children’s minority status by stressing his remind him, as an aside, that there is a Michael Harrah and technician Kathy 10-Apr-2008: Local towns are proposing fee and fine 16-Oct-2008: With budget shortfalls at all levels of (and by extension, Christian children’s’) place where he, his family, and all Chris- Neroda were there to assist the moment I increases, such as parking tickets, charges for the commu- federal, state, county, towns, authorities and school district numerical “85 percent” majority status tians can appropriately celebrate the birth entered the building. Thank-you! nity room, and licensing fees for restaurants and private governments, before laying off workers, government must (as U.S. Christians). of Jesus Christ to their fullest satisfaction My only wish is for everyone to have a pools. With the fiscal crisis, municipalities may need to substantially reduce compensation of those at the top; and He ends with the plea that “Christians — it is called “church.” safe, healthy, happy, 2009 — and again, a consider salary reductions at the top and have employees reduce the number of those at the top. should be treated equally at these events,” Steve Becker thousand blessings to my special angels. take additional vacations without pay to offset deficits and 23-Oct-2008: Union County voters should be given the implying unfavoritism against Christians Westfield Millicent Brody versus favoritism to Jews. Embedded in avoid layoffs. opportunity next year to decide, through referendum, Westfield 17-Apr-2008: Given the conviction of former Newark whether they want to continue to elect their freeholders at- Mayor Sharpe James, it is time for term limits; not just in large or switch to districts similar to a city ward system. the state government, but in our big cities. The current Democratic majority does not want to change 24-Apr-2008: A regional approach needs to be taken while the Republicans want to change. Let’s let the people with regard to recreation programs offered in Union County. decide. Most towns have recreation commissions that sponsor 30-Oct-2008: The only poll that is important is the final many of the same types of programs, often utilizing the decision in the Presidential election. services of private companies such as yoga centers and 6-Nov-2008: It’s time to eliminate the compensation soccer camps. Couldn’t these programs be merged under that government officials, police chiefs and school super- a newly created Union County Parks Commission run intendents get for accumulated vacation and sick days independently by volunteers appointed by county and upon retirement. They have a right to vacation and they municipal governments? In addition to volunteers, full- should take it but not to be paid for it. Sick days are a safety time staff could be hired that represent all 21 towns in the net, not a form of compensation. The practice is abusive to county with no duplication of services. This would save the taxpayer. millions of taxpayer dollars. 13-Nov-2008: The Federal government is considering 1-May-2008: Why can’t Westfield develop a parking using taxpayer money to bail out General Motors, in debt system, which would enable merchants to validate parking due to unrealistic pension promises to unions. Millions of for their customers? Couldn’t the town offer annual passes American taxpayers do not have pensions such as prom- for a certain fee that stores could pay and in turn, provide ised irresponsibly by General Motors. Stop robbing the free parking to Westfield shoppers? taxpayers and force General Motors and their unions to 8-May-2008: Some people in the State of New Jersey renegotiate reasonable arrangements. believe they are entitled to free health care, and that they 20-Nov-2008: Former New Jersey senator Wayne Bryant can go to hospitals without paying. Some of these indi- was found guilty of selling his office as one of New viduals include illegal aliens. Hospitals are closing and Jersey’s most influential lawmakers and padding his pen- going bankrupt. We request that all state leaders and the sion. In addition to jail, Bryant should be forced to return governor issue a clear statement as to what the entitlements all the fraud money and forfeit his pension. are, and who is to pay for entitlements that may exist. 27-Nov-2008: In that AIG Chief Executive Edward 15-May-2008: Any provisions on increasing revenue Liddy cut his salary to $1 as part of voluntary pay restric- projections in the state’s budget should go directly to tions by executives tied to a $150 billion government reducing taxes instead of for delusional purposes to in- bailout, we implore the government to require the same crease spending. from executives of other bailouts. 22-May-2008: We think it’s probably a good idea to 4-Dec-2008: President-elect Barack Obama needs to move the school board elections to November as being appoint a new U.S. attorney for New Jersey who is just as contemplated by state legislators. However, we are con- diligent at cleaning up corruption as their predecessor, cerned about a provision to end the practice of having Chris Christie. voters cast ballots on school budgets. 11-Dec-2008: It may seem that New Jersey is defense- Your State Legislators 29-May-2008: When schools pass contracts or hire less now that United States Attorney Chris Christie has executive personnel, the details of those contracts and resigned, but Ralph J. Marra, Jr., who was first assistant ---LD-21------LD-22--- LD-21 includes Westfield, Mountainside, résumés should be made available at the time for immedi- U.S. attorney under Mr. Christie, has assumed the respon- Sen. Thomas Kean, Jr. (R) Sen. Nicholas Scutari (D) Garwood, Summit and Cranford. 203 Elm St. 1514 E. Saint Georges Ave. ate pubic scrutiny. The public is already given 30 days to sibilities as Acting U.S. Attorney. We suggest that anyone Westfield, N.J. 07090 Linden, N.J. 07036 LD-22 includes Scotch Plains, Fanwood, scrutinize other documents prior to their final vote. Why with information on possible crimes contact his office. (908) 232-3673 (908) 587-0404 Plainfield, Clark and Linden. should teacher contracts and major hires be any different? 18-Dec-2008: As being considered in New York and Asm. Jon Bramnick (R) Asw. Linda Stender (D) 5-Jun-2008: Perhaps it’s time for the state and the Illinois, passing U.S. Senate seats around to nobility or to 251 North Ave. West 1801 East Second St. E-mail Addresses teachers’ union to step aside and allow qualified teachers the highest bidder must stop. Elections for U.S. Senate Westfield, N.J. 07090 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 [email protected] and management to work without being forced to join the must provide for choosing candidates with the best inter- (908) 232-2073 (908) 668-1900 [email protected] union. In this way, competition may bring about reform of ests of the citizens in mind. Asm. Eric Munoz (R) Asm. Jerry Green (D) [email protected] contract abuses. 25-Dec-2008: In these difficult economic times, our 57 Union Place, Suite 310 17 Watchung Ave. [email protected] 12-Jun-2008: Given the gas crisis, isn’t it time that all state, county and local governments must justify the Summit, N.J. 07901 Plainfield, N.J. 07060 [email protected] (908) 918-0414 (908) 561-5757 [email protected] government vehicle perks be eliminated so that officials filling of vacant positions and / or increasing employ- feel the sting like everyone else? Then, maybe something ment. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 5 Letters to ABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ Letters to the Editor Recent Home Sales the Editor Fanwood: Way, $360,000. DD In Healthcare, County TM Mobile Meals Thanks Westfield Christopher J. and Courtney Rinaldi Charles A. and Audrey R. Said to DD to Anthony Zazella and Jamie Vance, Marlene and Juan M. Reyes, 1732 Made Wrong Decision Diction Deception Restaurants for Their Support 178 Herbert Avenue, $460,000. Ramapo Way, $390,000. Below are four arcane words, each On behalf of the Board of Mobile Meals, celebrated 40 years of service to our com- Robert and Carolyn M. Brelinsky Louis and Mary Cerchio and For Fiscal Prudence with four definitions – only one is correct. I would like to thank Ferraro’s Restau- munity, providing hot meals to the eld- to Scott Brelinsky, 51 Locust Avenue, Vincent and Mary Saggese to Michael It may not have been the county’s in- The others are made up. Are you sharp rant, 16 Prospect Wine Bar and Bistro, erly and disabled of Westfield, Cranford, $390,000. J. Liguori and Melissa R. Tratenberg, tention to leave the offer of 100 percent enough to discern this deception of dic- Isabella’s American Bistro, Mojave Grill, Clark, Garwood, Fanwood and Scotch Cynthia and James M. Chiarello, 21 Village Park Court, $320,000. subsidization of healthcare benefits upon tion? Theresa’s, Rockn’ Joe Coffeehouse and Plains. Thanks to these generous Westfield Jr. to Donna B. and David R. Laterza, William F. and Margaret B. Billard retirement to 88 exclusionary employees If you can guess one correctly – good Bistro, Sweet Water’s Steak House and restaurants and all of our volunteers and 188 North Martine Avenue, $585,000. to Alexis and John J. Calabrese, 2066 open forever, but it will be. I specifically guess. If you get two – well-read indi- Buona Pizza for their generous support of community supporters, we hope to con- asked at the last freeholder meeting vidual. If you get three – word expert. If Estate of Mary M. Hovanec to Algonquin Drive, $420,000. whether there was a sunset provision to you get all four – you must have a lot of our first annual Dine Out for Those Who tinue our mission to serve the community Deniece J. Reid, 2086 Princeton Av- Estate of Douglas W. Handley to Can’t on October 21. for many years to come. the resolution designed to encourage early free time! enue, $450,000. James W. Kennedy, 8 Village Park retirements. The answer was no. All words and correct definitions In addition, we would like to thank all Nancy Otchy of those diners who came out and enjoyed David J. and Renee Krolikowski to Court, $280,000. So, what did the county do under the come from the board game Diction President of the Board Matthew V. and Stephanie R. James and Ellen M. O’Donnell to cloak of fiscal prudence? Those 88 em- Deception. a wonderful meal that night in support of Mobile Meals of Westfield our organization. This year, Mobile Meals Giannacio, 117 South Glenwood Rutland B. Paal, Jr. and Jocelyn S. ployees know they will get their health Answers to last week’s arcane words. Road, $420,000. Salzano, 1914 Lake Avenue, benefits fully paid for whenever they 1. Danaide – A water wheel, consisting Highland Avenue One-Way Status John and Sharon Lies to Matthew $360,000. choose to retire. Any attempt at rescission of two tapering shells, one within the A. and Lisa A. Krueger, 165 King Richard A. and Ninamarie Keri to of the offer, as unlikely that might me, other would be deemed by those employees as 2. Cleronomy – Inheritance; heritage Becomes Liability to Westfield Street, $523,000. Peter and Pamela G. Sayles, 15 Trav- a benefit cut. And what about all the other Frances W. and Ronald Curry to eller Way, $740,000. 3. Bleb – A small blister or swelling on Editor’s Note: This letter was sent to this corner will likely be visible only employees who retire from here on in? the skin or plants Westfield Mayor Andy Skibitsky, the Town during the winter months. Two-sided signs Muhammad Mirza and Asma Abrar, Noelle and Arthur Pajka and Can the county really maintain them at 50 4. Subtiliation – The act of making thin 15 Roosevelt Avenue, $410,000. Annabelle L. Short to Scott and percent subsidization, even if they want Council and copied to the newspaper. would provide better visibility and safety. STUPRATION On December 16, 2008, the public It is acknowledged that there are “do Brian D. Tafeen to Michael Bernadine Santoro, 2048 Prospect to? D’Alessio and Molly E. Coletta, 175 Avenue, $360,000. In effect, the county has just doubled 1. The act of curling or coiling works department installed, at the south- not enter” signs visible to those traveling 2. The process of chewing and swal- east and southwest corners of East Dudley on Mountain Avenue in the direction of Helen Street, $530,000. Michael J. and Stacy L. Ozol to their future retiree healthcare costs, which happens to be the single fastest growing lowing and Highland Avenues, signs indicating Mountainside. Such signs are located on Roque P. and Leonor Medina to Shaun R. Cherewich, 2214 Rhoda 3. Rape; violation by force that the section of Highland Avenue be- the island that serves to split Highland Andrew P. Full, 34 Estelle Lane, Place, $360,000. budget item. It may have been a good idea on paper, 4. Intimidation; humiliation tween East Dudley and Mountain Av- Avenue into two lanes, one for those $425,000. Muriel Baumwoll to William R. SCHATCHEN enues is one-way in the direction of Moun- turning right, and one for those turning but in a decision-making bubble with no Jane C. Lundstrum to Jason D. and Mary K. Downey, 43 Tisbury effective oversight it is these whipsaw 1. A marriage broker tain Avenue. This action was done with- left. Unfamiliar motorists may interpret 2. A hobo; tramp out prior written notice to the six families these signs to mean not to enter the first Lundstrum, 50 Locust Avenue, Village, $374,000. solutions that germinate. $250,000. John Mastroianni to Kenneth 3. A dancer whose homes are located along this sec- road but, rather, to turn into the second John Bury 4. A small bell similar to a sleighbell tion of Highland Avenue and whose drive- road. These “do not enter” signs are not Scotch Plains: Shifrin, 5 Essex Road, $1,350,000. Kenilworth Needle-Point Homes, LLC to Tho- Billy and Colleen Ramos to Philip TETTIX ways enter Highland Avenue. visible to motorists traveling on Moun- 1. A tumor A letter was thereafter dispatched by tain Avenue in the direction of downtown mas and Christina Peeney, 1688 Coo- J. Less, 33 Riga Court, $372,500. 2. A cicada the police department informing us “that Westfield. per Road, $977,000. Romano and Juanita DiNizo to Doria Responds To 3. A scar under the Town Code, Section 13-2, that While there is a single sign located Dominick and Karen Valenzano to Vittalraj Govindaraj and Shanthy 4. A tyrant or despot Highland Avenue, between East Dudley before the Highland Avenue intersection Jorge and Ana Cristina Abrantes, 2140 Raghavan, 2039 Prospect Avenue, Calls by Municipalities RONION and Mountain Avenue is a ‘One Way’ with Mountain Avenue that indicate “no Seward Drive, $575,000. $694,000. For COAH Extension 1. A pretender to learning; a quack street and warning that exiting the road- right turn,” this sign is visible only during 2. A fool or imbecile way onto East Dudley Avenue “can cause the winter months, when the tree located Patrick and Linda Gallagher to The Tofigh Property Corporation to New Jersey Community Affairs Com- State of New Jersey, Department of Jaideep Reddy and Pranitha Gaddam, 3. A mangy, scabby animal a hazardous situation and may result in a close to this sign has dropped its leaves. missioner Joseph Doria sent the fol- 4. A chiropractor summons.” The extent of this mailing to Otherwise, it is obscured and cannot be Transportation, 222 Park Avenue, 1590 Rahway Road, $1,025,000. lowing letter on December 23 to Will- other area residents is not known. seen. It is questioned why signage was $880,000. Marie Moore and Frank Cunniffe iam Dressel, executive director of the Heretofore, it was believed that this not installed on the island that splits High- Heather Glen at Scotch Plains Ur- to Jeffrey and Rachel C. Vanterpool, New Jersey State League of Munici- Israel: Capable of section of Highland Avenue was two- land Avenue that would indicate, if ille- ban Renewal, LLC to Stephen and 11 Nicole Court, 585,000. palities: way; with one-way only egress onto gal ingress was made, that the motorist Penny Seeder, 2587 Liberty Street, Regina M. Cardona to Theresa and “I am writing regarding your request Making Peace, and War Mountain Avenue. Subsequent inquiry would be traveling in the wrong direction $570,000. Jason Mihansky, 1332 Graymill that the Council on Affordable Housing Once again Israel is paying for its deci- revealed that General Ordinance 970, on a one-way road. Since Mountain Av- Heather Glen at Scotch Plains Ur- Drive, $580,000. (COAH) hold an emergency meeting to sion to listen to world pressure and unilat- designating this section as one-way, was enue is a county road, this letter is being ban Renewal, LLC to Bernice and Westfield: extend the December 31 deadline for erally give the citizens of Gaza land in the enacted in 1966. This ordinance, how- copied to the traffic safety division of submitting revised third round plans. hope of achieving peace. Last week they ever, has never been enforced. Rather, the Union County. Michael R. Cannone, 311 Coldstream Lesli E. Rodman to Vincent and As you know, the December 31 dead- Court, $650,000. Soomin Hu, 208 Embree Court, were rewarded with 300 missiles fired at town has treated this section of Highland Illegal entry onto Highland Avenue line, which is set forth in regulations civilian targets in Southern Israel and Avenue as a two-way road, maintaining from Mountain Avenue has been a seri- Estate of August Rasile to Shannon $695,000. adopted by COAH earlier this year, 3,000 in the past year. No one seemed to stop signs on both the southeast and south- ous, long-term problem — a problem that W. Gibney and Meredith L. Gibney, Jonathon Gabriel to Jeffrey S. and applies only to a portion of the munici- care. No outcry about targeting civilians, west corners of East Dudley Avenue. It is has not been adequately policed and that 372 Stout Avenue, $380,000. Stephanie Brinker, 706 Clark Street, palities in the state. The deadline ap- a young African Israeli boy who lost a also noted that, just this past summer, will worsen, with this one-way designa- Geraldine Fredericksen, Susan Tay- $1,510,000. plies only to those towns that previ- limb, farmers who ran from the fields to following the repaving of Highland Av- tion, in the absence of diligent remedial lor, Donna Assenza and Joseph V. Michael Titone to Kenneth C. and ously participated in COAH’s original keep from being killed. The Palestinians enue, the town painted a “stop” line on the action. While the local residents will not Cannata to Nick Perretti, 530 Park Deborah H. Tola, Jr., 406 First Street, third round or that voluntarily chose to were on a holy mission to drive all Israelis right side of the street for those approach- be caused undue inconvenience, and will Avenue, $186,000. $557,500. file plans before the court and thereby into the sea. They would finish the job ing East Dudley Avenue. It is submitted quickly get used to this new traffic pat- continue to maintain protection against that Hitler started. that General Ordinance 970 is not now tern; if this one-way designation is to be Andrew S. Jenifer Silver Madison Thomas D. and Kristine Wansaw ‘builder’s remedy’ lawsuits. Published to Lior and Rimma Farkash, 9 to Josue and Amanda Gorin, 6 Pine Israel has demonstrated restraint in the enforceable, having been extinguished pursued, proper notice and reenactment reports indicate that over 200 of the face of these military attacks on its citi- by the town’s failure, for many decades, of the ordinance is deemed to be required. Wareham Village, $328,500. Court, $775,000. towns to which the deadline applies zens and its territory. Would any other to treat this section of Highland Avenue Thereafter, the installation of appropriate 223 Katherine Street, LLC to Pauline Powell to Joan M. Roll, 21 have recently taken action to approve country have done that? Israel now is as anything other than a two-way road. signage, removal of signs no longer re- Theodore E. Schiller, 1557 Ramapo Mohawk Trail, $435,000. revised plans, or are poised to do so responding in a way to make it clear that It is unclear what incident led to this quired, and a vigorous campaign to alert over the next couple of days. not only is it willing to make peace, but it recent action and an explanation is re- motorists of this change will be required. “We recognize the time and effort is also capable of making war. quested. The only apparent safety issue Police presence and/or mobile flashing that is required for the planning pro- Aba Eben, then Israeli ambassador to that, in fact, will likely, lead to a hazard- signage positioned so as to draw attention Letters to the Editor cess, and COAH has worked with many the UN (United Nations), said during the ous situation is caused by the many mo- to this change will required for at least towns to provide information and assis- UN debate after the 1956 war “if we were torists illegally entering Highland Av- several weeks. tance in that process. COAH also has to die the whole world would come to our enue from Mountain Avenue. In this re- In addition, since this road is two lanes, NJ AARP Supports New issued guidance that addresses some of funerals and say nice things about us, if gard, the town’s actions further aggravate consideration should be given to painting the significant concerns that have been we live we will be condemned, we chose an already unsafe situation. Those turn- parking shoulders along both sides of the raised about the growth share impact of to live.” ing illegally from Mountain Avenue onto road in order to narrow the road to avoid Hospital Reporting on Errors new residential construction. Highland Avenue have no visible clues to two lanes of traffic jockeying for position Thanks to the Patient Safety Act and dangerous medical mistakes. “As to the deadline, COAH’s regula- Dick Samuel alert them to their mistake. Rather, they to exit. This would also reduce the risk of the leadership of Department of Health Of course, the system is not perfect. tions provide the opportunity for indi- Scotch Plains see stop signs at the approaching intersec- two approaching cars attempting to make and Senior Services (DHSS) Commis- Five-hospitals reported zero errors, a num- vidual municipalities to apply to COAH tion. right and left turns, simultaneously, onto sioner Heather Howard, it looks like the ber that is suspect to even the most naïve for a waiver of a particular regulatory I am dumbfounded as to why, when the Highland Avenue. state is taking giant steps toward im- New Jersey resident. AARP calls upon requirement provided that criteria set one-way signs were installed, the stop The town’s one-way designation, con- proved health care quality and transpar- the DHSS to release the names of these forth in the waiver regulation are satis- “The Tough signs were not concurrently removed, or flicting, confusing and improper signage, ency in New Jersey hospitals. non-reporting hospitals so that New fied. This waiver option has been avail- Get Going” why the “stop” line was not painted over. and lack of adequate notice as to the Case in point is the third annual Patient Jerseyans can find out if these hospitals able to any town that believes it cannot It is also questioned why the installed change now implemented, after more than Safety Report, released by the DHSS last are truly perfect or are flouting the law meet the deadline and whose request “one-way” signs are not two-sided. Since 40 years, exposes the town to liability that week. Though the report found that 72 and hiding serious medical mistakes from meets the criteria. there is a tree located on the town’s right- may prove to be financially devastating. people died from preventable medical the public. “We have given serious thought and of-way at the southwest corner of East Cynthia Foulke errors in New Jersey last year – 30 more AARP advocates for better and most consideration to your request but have Dudley Avenue, and the sign located on Westfield than in 2006 – AARP believes this is not importantly, public reporting of prevent- determined that an across-the-board ex- the result of worsening care or careless able medical errors that will force hospi- tension of the deadline would not be goleader.com treatment by our state’s hospitals. tals to report their medical error numbers consistent with COAH’s statutory obli- Are New Jerseyans Voting With Their Rather, AARP believes the increase is accurately and improve the quality of gations under the Fair Housing Act. a result of better reporting, which for care in their hospitals. “As we have stated, COAH is com- healthcare consumers is a good thing. Quite simply, public reporting will save mitted to continuing to work coopera- Feet and Heading South? More reporting means more focus on lives. tively with municipal officials in the Advertise What a surprise, New Jersey is ex- JFK did, that high taxes don’t redistribute fixing problem processes that result in planning process, and that cooperation Here pected to lose a seat in the House of income, they only redistribute people. Marilyn Askin, AARP New Jersey Chief Legislative Advocate certainly will continue as we move for- Representatives. Why you ask? Well, it When people feel that their government The Myth of Non- ward.” appears that our population growth, an no longer represents their interests, they anemic 3.2 percent since 2000, puts us find more favorable places to live. They Partisanship near the bottom of the list of where people take their families, they take their busi- want to live and raise their families. Other nesses and the jobs that those businesses School Board Elections Valley Furniture Shop states that are likely to lose, following the provide to someplace friendlier. Why maintain the myth that these elec- 2010 Census, are New York, Pennsylva- Governor Jon Corzine, on Monday, tions [school boards] are non-partisan? In Exquisite 18th Century Reproductions nia, California, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, December 22, when faced with another the past, there were nine or so individuals Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, and dismal tax revenue projection, said that competing for three slots. Now they are Missouri. See a pattern here? he would be ‘forced to consider layoffs, slates that have the organizational back- States that will gain seats are Arizona, tax increases and other harsh fiscal mea- CLEARANCE ing of political factions. More and more, YEAR END Georgia, Nevada, South Carolina, Utah, sures.’ Since the Government of New the boards have been training grounds for Florida and Texas. Is the pattern becom- Jersey is the state’s largest employer, is the potential partisans candidates. ing clearer? there any doubt about what Trenton’s Parties can present slates in the prima- Every Floor Piece DRASTICALLY REDUCED! In 2007, the American Legislative Ex- preferred method of plugging the budget ries and the final battle can be in the change Council, alec.org, ranked each hole will be? Will they eliminate pro- General Election. In those non-partisan state based on their economic competi- grams that don’t work? Will they elimi- towns or towns that wish to maintain the SHOP NOW AND SAVE BIG! *OPEN NEW YEARS DAY* tiveness and found Florida, Arizona, nate costly mandates like COAH, or pa- myth of non-partisanship school boards, Texas, Nevada, Utah, South Carolina and tronage and no show jobs to the politi- hold the election in the summer with those Georgia to be among the most competi- cally connected? How about pension present non-partisan elections. tive. They tend to have low taxes, lower double dipping and crazy tenure and work costs of living and lower costs of doing rules? Hmm. Roger Stryeski business. I will happily eat a spider if any of these Chairman Guess who was near the bottom. happen. What will happen, because it Roselle Republican Committee Yup…New York, Pennsylvania, Califor- always does, is they will once again play nia, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachu- the tax card. And like citizens of the setts, Michigan, Missouri and no surprise, Soviet Union and eastern Bloc, which New Jersey. In fact, New Jersey, in spite of eventually collapsed under their own #ARINSURANCEWITH Trenton rearranging the regulatory deck weight, New Jersey citizens will vote chairs, recently became the worst state in with their feet. the United States to do business. Rob Kealey 0%23/.!, Sadly, we still fail to understand, as Mays Landing 3%26)#% 50% Off STICKLEY TRUCKLOAD - 50-60% Off Selected Leather .OEXTRACHARGE Accessory Clearance 20-50% Off - Special Sale on Special Orders

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PUBLICATION Library to Offer Storytimes; Collage Workshops on Tap Program on Switch to DTV For January at Library WESTFIELD – The Westfield Me- Interested persons are asked to access SCOTCH PLAINS – Adults and 5007, extension no. 204, or e-mail morial Library has announced the the library’s website, wmlnj.org, and teenagers accompanied by adults [email protected]. dates for a Storytime series and an click on the calendar, or call (908) are invited to join award-winning The Scotch Plains Public Library informational program to help people 789-4090, extension no. 4122. artist Vicki Parker at the Scotch is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, prepare for the conversion to digital To learn about other youth or adult Plains Public Library to create fam- one block from Park Avenue in the television (DTV) in February. programs at the library, visit ily collages that can be displayed. center of the township. The library’s Youth Services De- wmlnj.org and click on the Events Ms. Parker will guide participants partment invites children ages 3 and calendar, call (908) 789-4090, exten- in creating an original piece of art Donations Are Sought older to attend Storytime sessions sion no. 3, or stop by the library at 550 from copies of old family photographs, on Mondays, January 5, 12 and 26, East Broad Street for a copy of its diaries, letters, scrapbooks and gene- For Used Book Sale from 7 to 7:30 p.m., to be filmed by quarterly newsletter. alogies, among other keepsakes. SCOTCH PLAINS – The Jewish the local cable station TV-36. These The Westfield Memorial Library is Workshops will be held at the Community Center (JCC) of Central sessions will be shown on the Kidz open from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon- library on Saturday, January 24, New Jersey will host its annual used Korner segment. This program is open day through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from book sale Sunday through Thursday, to the public, and pre-registration is p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 to 2 to 4:30 p.m. Individuals also are January 18 to 22. not required. Children are invited to 5 p.m. on Sunday. invited to attend a short planning Proceeds from this sale will benefit wear their pajamas. A parent or session with Ms. Parker on Satur- the JCC’s Adult Enrichment Depart- caregiver must attend with each child Recreation Activities day, January 10, at 2 p.m. to learn ment, which provides recreational and and sign a broadcast release slip. Available For Seniors specifics and to see samples of com- educational programs and hot meals On Wednesday, January 7, the pleted works. for senior citizens on a regular basis. American Library Association and FANWOOD – The Fanwood Rec- At that time, librarians will be Donations of gently used books are RadioShack will offer a program at 7 reation Department has announced available to help interested persons welcome and will be accepted Mon- p.m. at the library on what people may its winter program schedule for se- search the library’s databases and day, January 5, through Friday, January need to do before the transition to nior citizens. books for copies of their family’s 16, at the JCC’s Member Services Desk. DTV occurs on Tuesday, February 17. Programs will begin the week of genealogy and immigration records, Fiction, nonfiction (excluding text- By law, full-power televisions na- Monday, January 5, and run through maps and other images that they books) and children’s books are wel- tionwide must switch from the old the week of March 25. They will can incorporate into their collage. come. Tax-deductible forms will be method of transmitting television sig- include Aerobics (Tuesdays, 9:15 to Individuals may contact a librarian available to all those donating books. nals, known as analog, to DTV. View- 10 a.m.), Tai Chi (Tuesdays, 10:15 to MR. AND MRS. ROBERT N. STROUD for information and a materials list (She is the former Ms. Tovah L. Ornstein) For more information about the used ers who currently watch television on 11:15 a.m.), Line Dancing (Thurs- if they cannot attend the planning book sale or the Adult Enrichment an analog set that is not connected to days, 1 to 2 p.m.) and Water Exercise session. Department, contact Barbara Weisbart a pay television service, like cable or (Fridays, 11 to 11:45 a.m.). Participants will provide copies at [email protected] or (908) 889- satellite, will need to take action be- All classes will take place in the of photographs and mementos. The 8800, extension no. 207. Information fore the transition date. recreation building at Forest Road Dr. Tovah L. Ornstein library will provide the other sup- also is available at jccnj.org. Attendees will learn why the DTV Park, except for Water Exercise, which plies needed. A fee of less than $10 The JCC of Central New Jersey is transition is occurring, what benefits will be held at the Jewish Community will be charged to cover materials. located at 1391 Martine Avenue in digital television offers, what view- Center (JCC) of Central New Jersey This program is open to all inter- Scotch Plains. It is a constituent agency ers need to do in order to continue Wilf Jewish Community Campus in- Marries Robert N. Stroud ested participants. Pre-registration of the United Way and the Jewish receiving over-the-air television door pool in Scotch Plains. Dr. Tovah Leigh Ornstein, the Erik Lund of Westfield, a friend of is required. For further informa- Federation of Central New Jersey. Fi- broadcasts after the conversion oc- Registration forms may be picked daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence the bride and bridegroom, delivered tion, to register or to obtain direc- nancial assistance is available for mem- curs and how to apply for up to two up at Fanwood Borough Hall, 75 North Ornstein of Lawrenceville, was mar- the first reading, “The Symposium,” tions, call the library at (908) 322- bership and various programs. $40 government coupons per house- Martine Avenue. For more informa- ried on Saturday, August 2, to Robert by Plato. Mrs. Maureen Carpenter of hold to help reduce the costs of ob- tion about fees, the schedule and how N. Stroud. He is the son of Mr. and Westford, Vt., a friend of the taining a digital converter box. to register, visit fanwoodrecreation.org Mrs. Craig Stroud of Westfield. bridegroom’s family, delivered the Family Physician to Speak Registration is required, but the pro- online or call Fanwood Recreation at Gordon Kaslusky of Mechanicsburg, second reading, “Touched by an An- gram is free and open to the public. (908) 370-7092. Pa., a friend of the bride and bride- gel,” by Maya Angelou. groom and formerly of Westfield, offi- A 1997 graduate of Lawrence High At AARP’s Next Meeting ciated at the early evening ceremony, School, the bride earned a Doctor of Stable Invites Youngsters which took place at the Pleasantdale Psychology degree in organizational WESTFIELD – The first meeting why he started his practice, “House Chateau in West Orange. A reception psychology from Rutgers University of year 2009 of Westfield Area Calls of N.J., LLC.” He has a special immediately followed. in New Brunswick in May. Prior to Chapter 4137 of the American As- interest in geriatrics. To Mini-Clinics on Horses Given in marriage by her father and this, she received a Master of Educa- sociation of Retired Persons Also at this meeting, the chapter MOUNTAINSIDE – Children ages Grooming – 5- and 6-year-olds. mother, the bride wore an ivory taffeta tion degree in counseling psychology (AARP) will take place on Monday, will begin to collect reservations and 5 to 8 are invited to attend special- February 21, 10 to 11 a.m.: Mini- strapless trumpet gown. She carried a from Columbia University in New January 5, beginning at 1 p.m. It payment for its day trip to the Brown- ized, non-riding mini-clinics this win- Grooming – 7- and 8-year-olds. bouquet of ivory roses and stephanotis. York City and a Bachelor of Arts will be held at the Scotch Hills stone on Tuesday, March 31, to cel- ter at the Watchung Stable to expand February 21, 11 a.m. to noon: Just Ms. Tara Stroud of Westfield, sister degree in Psychology and Women’s Country Club, located at the inter- ebrate the Feast of St. Joseph. Served their knowledge of horses. the Two of Us – 5- and 6-year-olds of the bridegroom, and Ms. Cathy Studies from Rutgers University in section of Plainfield Avenue and family style, dinner will include Sponsored by the Union County and a parent. Chmura of Lawrenceville, a friend of New Brunswick. She works as a pro- Jerusalem Road in Scotch Plains. baked chicken, baked ham, potatoes, Board of Chosen Freeholders and Space is limited and in-person pre- the couple, were the maids of honor. gram manager in organizational ef- Ample parking is available. vegetable, salad and dessert. The $70 the Union County Department of registration is required at the They wore latte taffeta strapless gowns fectiveness at Hess Corporation in Dr. Doug Ballan will be the guest cost will include the dinner, a show, Parks and Community Renewal, the Watchung Stable, located at 1160 by Bill Levkoff with mocha sashes, New York City. speaker. A family physician special- transportation and gratuity. Kiddie Clinics will be held on Satur- Summit Lane in Mountainside. The and carried bouquets of mango calla The bridegroom, a 1999 graduate izing in house calls, he has been board Chapter members are asked to days, January 24, February 7 and cost is $10 per person for each clinic. lilies and hydrangeas. of Westfield High School, was certified and a practicing physician bring a non-perishable food item to February 21. For further information, call the Dr. Rebecca Lamberth of Matawan, awarded Bachelor of Science degrees in New Jersey since 1993. He has the meeting. These donations will be “We are glad to sponsor programs Watchung Stable office at (908) 789- Mrs. Lindsey Roth of Voorhees, Ms. in Business Management and Psy- worked as an emergency room phy- given to the food pantry housed at that are focused on different eques- 3665 or e-mail questions to Alyssa Sosinski of Lawrenceville, Ms. chology from Saint Peter’s College in sician and an instructor of other doc- Holy Trinity Interparochial School trian topics for young children,” said [email protected]. Heather Fay and Ms. Alison Tindall, Jersey City. He anticipates comple- tors and also is a clinical assistant in Westfield. The chapter also in- Freeholder Rick Proctor, liaison to both of Robbinsville, all friends of tion of a Doctor of Psychology de- professor at the Robert Wood vites residents who hold member- the Union County Parks and Recre- Caregivers Meeting the couple, were bridal attendants. gree in organizational psychology Johnson School of Medicine. ship in the national AARP to attend ation Advisory Board. “There’s no They wore latte taffeta A-line gowns from Rutgers University in New Dr. Ballan will discuss how and Monday’s meeting. riding involved in these clinics, but To Be Held Monday with spaghetti straps, also by Bill Brunswick in May 2009. Presently, the children enjoy learning about WESTFIELD – A support group for Levkoff, and carried bouquets of he is employed as a change manage- horses and actually grooming the those caring for elderly or chronically mango calla lilies and hydrangeas. ment consultant with Johnson & Rake and Hoe Club Brings horses.” ill loved ones will meet on Monday, Kevin Anton of Westfield and Ryan Johnson in New Brunswick. Youngsters will have an opportu- January 5, at 8 p.m. in the parish center Kiernan of Gardiner, N.Y., both friends The mother of the bride and the Holiday Spirit to Jardine nity to enjoy a hands-on grooming of St. Helen’s Roman Catholic Church of the couple, were the best men. Darryl bridal party hosted a shower in April session with the stable’s resident on Lamberts Mill Road in Westfield. Fleming of Delran, Mike Friedman of at Maggiano’s in Bridgewater. WESTFIELD – Members of the school’s library. horses. “Just the Two of Us” grooming Meetings of the group are held on Westfield and Dr. Scott Roth of A rehearsal dinner, hosted by the Rake and Hoe Garden Club of The Rake and Hoe Garden Club sessions have been added for a parent the first non-holiday Monday of each Medford, friends of the couple, along parents of the bridegroom, took place Westfield, through their Community of Westfield has a long-term and child to participate in together. month. These are information and shar- with Ryan Sutton and Eric Sutton of the evening before the wedding at Projects Committee, helped to deco- reputation for its service to the Each session will last one hour. ing sessions. For more information, Winchester, Mass., cousins of the Fiorino Ristorante in Summit. rate the holiday tree at the Jardine community and donations to worthy Classes are geared for specific age call Marilyn Ryan at (908) 233-8757. bridegroom, were groomsmen. Brent Following a wedding trip to Oahu, Academy of Union on December 10. causes. Its membership is diverse, groups and are designed to include Carpenter of Westford, Vt., a friend of Hawaii, the couple resides in The Jardine Academy provides a spanning all ages, interests and parents and children who have never Literacy Volunteers the bridegroom’s family, served as the Piscataway, as they await completion comprehensive educational program occupations. ridden before. The clinics will be usher. of their new home in Westfield. that is designed to meet the cognitive Federated with the National held in the barn or the lecture area of Offers Tutor Training and physical needs of children who Council of State Garden Clubs, and the stable. AREA – Literacy Volunteers of Winter Needle Nites to Take Place have multiple disabilities – needs the Garden Club of New Jersey, the The Kiddie Clinics about horses Union County is seeking individuals that may not be fully met within the group has between 50 and 70 will be offered as follows: interested in becoming volunteer tu- local school system. members, all of whom share a love of January 24, 9 to 10 a.m.: Mini- tors for adults wishing to learn to read, At Fanwood Presbyterian Church Rake and Hoe members made the flowers and gardening. For questions Grooming – 7- and 8-year-olds. write or speak English. Only one hour FANWOOD – The winter dates project you are working on to do in gingerbread ornaments that fill the regarding membership, call Maryann January 24, 10 to 11 a.m.: Just the per week is needed to volunteer. Lit- have been posted for the Needle the company of other needle per- tree. The club also donated a book Pietruszki, membership chairwoman, Two of Us – 5- and 6-year-olds and a eracy Volunteers of Union County of- Nite program at the Fanwood Pres- sons.” called “The Gingerbread Boy” to the at (908) 789-9254. parent. fers free training and certification. byterian Church. Sessions will take Participants are invited to use their January 24, 11 a.m. to noon: Mini- A free information session will place on Fridays, January 9, Febru- needle skills to make quilts and Grooming – 5- and 6-year-olds. take place on Tuesday, January 27, ary 6 and March 6, at 7:30 p.m. in afghans for patients at Children’s February 7, 9 to 10 a.m.: Just the at the Plainfield Library, located at Westminster Hall, located on Specialized Hospital. The goal of Two of Us – 5- and 6-year-olds and a 800 Park Avenue in Plainfield. Light Marian Avenue in Fanwood. the group this year is 25 quilts. parent. refreshments will be served from “Anyone with a desire to learn a Materials, patterns and guidance February 7, 10 to 11 a.m.: Mini- 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. An overview of the new needle skill is welcome. The will be available at Needle Nite Grooming – 5- and 6-year-olds. literacy program will follow from women of the Fanwood Presbyte- sessions. Walk-ins are welcome. For February 7, 11 a.m. to noon: Mini- 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. To register, e-mail rian Church will be glad to help more information, call the church Grooming – 7- and 8-year-olds. [email protected] or call Susan at you,” the organizers of Needle Nite office at (908) 889-8891 or e-mail February 21, 9 to 10 a.m.: Mini- (908) 755-7998. said in a statement. “Or just bring a [email protected].

MARIO C. GURRIERI, ESQ. Chair of the Family Law Department of DUGHI & HEWIT 340 North Avenue Cranford, New Jersey 07016 ALL THE TRIMMINGS…Members of the Community Projects Committee of the Rake and Hoe Garden Club of Westfield trim the holiday tree with homemade DIVORCE QUESTIONS? decorations at the Jardine Academy, a Union County school for children with disabilities. Pictured, from left to right, are: Joan Festa, Carolynn Pulliam, Janet Specializing in all aspects of Family Law Gardner and Marilyn Straight. including divorce, custody, visitation, alimony, CLASSES FOR ADULTS AND TEENAGERS child support, division of assets, palimony, premarital agreements, civil unions, restraining orders, post-divorce motions due to changed financial circumstances, residence removal from New Jersey, visitation modifications STARTS JAN. 5TH and transfers of custody.

Over 35 years of continuous practice in Family Law Union County Early Settlement Arbitration Panelist for over 25 years Court-appointed Standing Master & Guardian Saturday, January 3rd at 12:30 pm or by appointment Accredited Mediator Department staffed with four additional attorneys with experience offered at lower hourly rates Saturday, Formerly Senior Partner at Snevily, Ely, Williams & January 3rd 1-4 pm NEW YOGA - PILATES CLASSES - PILATES YOGA NEW Gurrieri, Westfield (1972-2000)

For More Information: 908-272-0200 www.dughihewit.com A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 7 HUNG UP!! – Obituaries – Couple Not In Agreement Mary-Glenn Morin, 94, Was Active About Having Children By Milt Faith, Executive Director At CONTACT, Presbyterian Church Youth and Family Counseling Service Mary-Glenn Morin (née Burrill), telephone helpline for people in 94, died at Medford Leas, a retire- trouble and for the deaf. A Single Writes: “Justin” (dis- family, and issues of involvement of ment community in Medford, N.J. Mary-Glenn was an officer of the guised name) and I have been going young people who are struggling with Born in Belvidere, N.J., she moved Plainfield-Westfield Smith College together for two years. We plan to relationship problems, are important with her parents and sister to Westfield Club and chairman of her college marry when he finishes college. We and should be discussed in a meaning- in 1923. She attended Dwight School class’s 50th reunion. Mr. and Mrs. are committed to each other and are ful manner. Despite your criticism (or in Englewood and graduated from Morin moved to Mountainside in compatible. We enjoy the same ac- discomfort), I hope you continue to Smith College and the School of So- 1972, and then in 1988 to Medford tivities, hobbies, sports, social events read “Hung Up” – try to embrace these cial Work of Columbia University. Leas. There, she was active in the WELL DONE…Wendy Warwick, president of the Fanwood Presbyterian Church and friends. But we have one main universal questions without becoming Mary-Glenn was a caseworker with Extended Hand Ministry, helping to trustees, congratulates Paul Spicer, center, and Eric Williams of Boy Scout Troop problem. I was raised in a big family too hung up. Thank you. the Family and Children’s Society of provide food for people in the Mount 33 after the completion of their Eagle Scout projects at the church. with five siblings. I know that I want A Concerned Parent Writes: Our Elizabeth and had a career in New Holly area of Burlington County. several children. Justin wants none. 19-year-old son is confused about what York City as personnel administrator Her husband predeceased her in Troop 33 Boy Scouts Choose He can’t stand the noise, the confu- to choose as a major in college. My in several national agencies – the 1995. sion, the smells and the responsibili- husband and his brothers are accoun- USO, the Y.W.C.A. and Girl Scouts Surviving are her daughters, Susan ties of being a parent. We’ve talked tants, and he is so sure that Gary (dis- of America. Hunt of Billerica, Mass. and Betsy Church For Eagle Projects and talked about it, spoken to our guised name) should major in account- She married George V. N. Morin, Sillars of Cleveland, Ohio; five grand- pastor and saw a counselor, and we ing. Gary has always been interested returned to Westfield in 1954 and children and two great-grandchildren. FANWOOD – Two members of pleasing to the neighbors, the nursery both remain feeling the same way. I’d in my profession, teaching, and with became a wife, mother and home- Arrangements were by the Mathis Boy Scout Troop 33 and of the school, the temple and the church be willing to settle for one or two so much academic competition today, maker. Mary-Glenn was active in The Funeral Home of Medford. Fanwood Presbyterian Church, work- Sunday school participants who use children, but he emphatically says we are trying to guide Gary to take Presbyterian Church in Westfield Donations in her memory may be ing on their requirements for the Eagle the doors on this side of the property. no. I don’t want to end the relation- courses that will enable him to make from 1954 to 1988 and in local social made to The Smith Fund, Smith Col- Award, focused on the need for im- Working with Virginia Kraus, who ship, but a union without a child, for the best possible decision about which agencies. lege, Northampton, Mass. 01063. A provement to the church property. cares for the church gardens, Paul me, is like air without oxygen. Could of these two fields he would like to She gave time as a member of the graveside service will be held in her The Eagle is the highest rank avail- researched the soil requirements and you please advise? pursue. Gary feels we pressure him board of trustees and as personnel memory at Fairview Cemetery in able in Boy Scouting. the plants that would grow along the Answer: I don’t know what the other too much. He would just like to take chairman, as well as a volunteer for Westfield at 10 a.m. on Saturday, With permission of the church trust- building. With the help of 20 of his counselors have told you; ultimately, courses and see where it leads him. We over 1,000 hours on the telephone, to May 16, 2009. ees, Eric Williams and Paul Spicer troop members and adults, 1,500 it is your decision. However, I cannot don’t feel that a little advice is inap- CONTACT We Care, an international January 1, 2009 recently took on and completed two square feet of garden was tilled. Ex- believe that you would find happiness propriate. What do you think? diverse projects for the church and isting plants were pruned or removed in this relationship without a more Answer: A little advice is appropri- community. and 40 new shrubs and plants were comfortable understanding between ate, but don’t push your point too far. Felix W. Sweeney, 91, Army Veteran; With the help of members of his planted. Fall and spring flowers, along the two of you. As time would go on, Accounting is fine for your husband, troop and adults, Eric refurbished a with the border plants, were in place you would resent Justin and yourself, and teaching is fine for you; let Gary Was Manitowoc Forsythe Executive little-used room to be utilized as a after two long Saturday workdays. in and out of bed. We all have choices. listen and make his own decisions Felix W. Sweeney, 91, died on rection of the Dooley Colonial Home, youth lounge for groups including “It was a pleasure to work with Yours should include a relationship based on his school experience, pref- Thursday, December 25, at the Francis 556 Westfield Avenue in Westfield. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as well both these young men. I was pleased where you and your partner agree (have erences and strengths. It will remove E. Parker Memorial Home in New In lieu of flowers, donations may as the Temple Sholom and Fanwood with their professionalism and I wish the same feelings) on the same priori- a great deal of pressure. My auto Brunswick after a long illness. be sent to the Quaker Foundation Presbyterian youth. them well with the completion of ties and comfort zones. And having mechanic, Richard P., shared a won- Born on July 4, 1917 in New Phila- Inc., NPHS Alumni Association, 124 The ceiling, walls and woodwork, their Eagle Awards,” said Wendy children for you is a top priority. derful saying which sums it all up: delphia, Ohio, he grew up and lived North Broadway, P.O. Box 627, New along with three storage closets, re- Warwick, president of the church A Disgruntled Reader Writes: I’ve “Children are not to be molded, but there until enlisting in the United States Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. ceived fresh paint after much sanding, trustees. begun to feel that reading your col- are like books, to be unfolded.” Army. Mr. Sweeney graduated from January 1, 2009 scraping and priming. The radiators Eric is the son of Shaun Williams umn (which I have done for over 30 Officer Candidate’s School in Carlisle, were repaired and re-painted and all and Christine Aadland of Fanwood. years) is beginning to feel like read- S.A.R. Chapter to Meet Pa. and served in the United States Grace Gazzo, 84 light fixtures were cleaned and refur- Paul is the son of John and Mary ing the National Enquirer. Lately, Army during World War II. He attained Grace Gazzo, 84, of Westfield died bished. Paint, wallpaper and furniture Spicer of Scotch Plains. instead of concentrating on family In Westfield January 9 the rank of lieutenant colonel and served on Monday, December 22, at Over- were donated by several sources. Eric During the coffee hour after the issues, you are writing about gays WESTFIELD – The West Fields in the medical corps, transportation look Hospital in Summit. solicited funds to purchase carpeting regular service November 9, the trust- and, last month, about virgins. Is this Chapter of the Sons of the American corps and in the Attorney General’s Born and raised in Newark, she had that he and his father installed. ees held a ribbon cutting for the youth to increase your readership? I don’t Revolution (S.A.R.) will meet at 8 Department at the Pentagon. lived in Manhattan, then in Los An- Eric kept track of the work hours lounge and a tribute to the beautifica- see where this is helpful, and I think p.m. on Friday, January 9, in the Com- Mr. Sweeney sold construction geles, Calif., before moving to during the six-month span of this tion of the grounds. Both young men these issues, about “coming out” or munity Room of the Westfield Mu- equipment for Paul Pumps, Wayne Westfield eight years ago. project. More than 500 man-hours thanked the many who contributed to whether a girl should lose her virgin- nicipal Building, located at 425 East Crane, American Hoist and Derrick Mrs. Gazzo was the loving wife of went into this renovation by more the success of these projects. They ity to her boyfriend, should not be in Broad Street. and Manitowoc Engineering Com- the late actor and playwright Michael than 30 members of Troop 33, the expressed their appreciation to Young a family newspaper. Shame on you. Guest speaker Kevin Olsen of the pany. He retired in 1985 as executive V. Gazzo, who died in 1995. church, community, friends and fam- Paint and Varnish Co. of Fanwood, Answer: Firstly, I would like to Chemistry Department and Passaic vice president of The Manitowoc Surviving are her daughter, Peppi ily members. Sherwin Williams of Westfield, Parker thank you for reading my column for River Institute of Montclair State Forsythe Company in Long Island Masciandaro, and her husband, Os- Paul saw a need to make the Marian Gardens of Scotch Plains and Bartell so many years. I hope that means that University will highlight local mari- City, N.Y., a subsidiary of Manitowoc car; two sons, Michael David Gazzo Avenue side of the property more Farm and Garden Supplies of Clark. you found it informative and enjoy- time history. Engineering. and his wife, Kimberly, and Chris- able. Secondly, I am sorry you feel He will present the findings of his He lived for many years in Westfield topher Gazzo and his wife, Diana; Bone Marrow Testing-Registry my column deals with themes that are recently published book, “A Great and also in South Bethany, Del. her brother, David Benn, and eight only appropriate material for the Na- Conveniency – A Maritime History Mr. Sweeney was a former mem- grandchildren, Olivia and Anna tional Enquirer. of the Passaic River, Hackensack ber of the New York Athletic Club Masciandaro and Hannah, Mickey, To Take Place at JCC Jan. 11 The questions are written by indi- River and Newark Bay,” published by and a member emeritus of the Madeline, Amanda, Garrett and SCOTCH PLAINS – The Jewish Jewish Federation of Central New viduals and family members who have American History Imprints of MOLES, an organization for build- Nina Gazzo. Community Center (JCC) of Central Jersey. Financial assistance is avail- concerns about specific issues which Franklin, Tenn. ing and excavation contractors and Her elder brother, William Benn, New Jersey will hold a bone marrow able for membership and various are universal and touch most families. This meeting is open to the public. business people. predeceased her. testing and registry event on Sunday, programs. I feel it is healthy and appropriate to Light refreshments will be served. Surviving are his wife of 64 years, A memorial service was held on January 11, called “Swab to Save.” It discuss them in a good newspaper For more information, call Warren Deuris Ehehalt Sweeney, of the Francis Sunday, December 28, at the Memo- will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. read by thousands of residents. Issues Fristensky, chapter president, at (908) E. Parker Memorial Home in New rial Funeral Home, 155 South Av- in the Teen Lounge. of sexual identity and its relevance to 654-1731. Brunswick; a son, Michael A. enue in Fanwood. In honor of their friend who was Sweeney, and his wife, Linda, of Memorial donations may be made recently diagnosed with leukemia, Ridgefield, Conn.; a daughter, Nancy to the American Diabetes Association, Lauren Belfer and Dani Bernstein, S. Heinkel of North Plainfield; three P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, Va. 22312 JCC members and Scotch Plains- granddaughters, Kathryn, Barbara and (www.diabetes.org). For additional Fanwood High School students, have Gray Funeral Homes Suzanne, and a grandson, Matthew. information or to express condolences, worked with Mallory Saks, the JCC’s A memorial mass will be set for a please visit Youth and Teen Services director, to future date. www.fanwoodmemorial.com. coordinate “Swab to Save.” The pro- Since 1897 Arrangements were under the di- January 1, 2009 gram will screen for bone marrow matches for any individuals in need. A key defense against leukemia is a bone marrow transplant. Holy Name Society to Offer The test is a simple cotton swab on the inside of the cheek and does not require participants to give marrow in Masculine Spirituality Series the event of a match. Individuals must HADASSAH HONOREE…The SCOTCH PLAINS – The Holy seling the wayward, comforting the be 18 to 60 years old to be tested. This event for the National Bone Northern New Jersey Region of Name Society of Saint Bartholomew sorrowing, bearing adversity patiently, Hadassah held its annual Myrtle forgiving offenses and praying for the Marrow Donor Program will include the Apostle Roman Catholic Church Wreath Awards ceremony at a brunch Begun in 1876 by William Gray, in Cranford and later Incorporated in will sponsor a series of talks on “Mas- living and the dead. T-shirt sales, a children’s craft table, November 23 at the Wilshire Grand culine Spirituality: Men of the Bible Saint Bartholomew the Apostle video games and snacks to help offset Hotel in West Orange. The awards 1897 as the Gray Burial & Cremation Company. Speak to Men Today.” Church is located at 2032 Westfield costs of bone marrow tests being done ceremony recognizes outstanding Today, known by many simply as Gray’s. We continue to provide the The first in the five-part series, Avenue in Scotch Plains. on the day of the event. “Swab to Hadassah women who have served their personal service that began with Mr. Gray, whether it be for burial or Save” is open to the whole family. respective chapters. Millie Pollack of cremation. “What Is Masculine Spirituality?,” Mountainside, pictured above, was will be presented by Monsignor John Introductory Course Personal donations also may be made. For more information, contact honored as Woman of the Year by the Gray Funeral Home Gray Memorial Funeral Home P. O’Connor on Monday, January Westfield Chapter of Hadassah and 12, at 7:30 p.m. in the Saint On Judaism Is Slated Mallory Saks at (908) 889-8800, ex- 318 East Broad St. 12 Springfield Ave. tension no. 203, or [email protected]. received her award at the brunch. She Bartholomew School cafeteria. All WESTFIELD – An Introduction to has served as recording secretary of Westfield, NJ 07090 Cranford, NJ 07016 men are welcome. Judaism course will be offered at The JCC of Central New Jersey is the chapter for five years, has co- William A. Doyle Mgr. Dale R. Schoustra Mgr. The Holy Name Society promotes Temple Emanu-El, 756 East Broad located at 1391 Martine Avenue in chaired the summer fundraising cam- NJ Lic. Number 2325 NJ Lic. Number 3707 the honor and glory of God and the Street in Westfield, on Thursdays Scotch Plains. It is a constituent paign for many years and has become (908)-233-0143 (908)-276-0092 personal sanctification of its mem- beginning January 8. The class will agency of the United Way and the a Keeper of the Gate. bers by acts of love and devotion to meet once a week for 16 weeks from the Holy Name of Jesus. 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. and is open to both Charles J. Tombs Members perform the Corporal temple members and non-members. NJ Lic. Number 4006 Works of Mercy – feeding the hungry, The New Jersey/ West Hudson Val- DO-IT-YOURSELF Director clothing the naked, giving drink to the ley Council of the Union for Reform thirsty, sheltering the homeless, tend- Judaism will sponsor this course. A CLASSIFIED ADS www.grayfuneralhomes.com ing the sick, visiting those in prison single registration fee includes tuition and burying the dead, as well as the and one set of eight books and materi- Spiritual Works of Mercy – converting als for each individual or couple. sinners, instructing the ignorant, coun- For more information or to regis- 24/7 ter, contact Jane Young, program co- ordinator, at the URJ NJ-WHVC Re- Visit Our Website Dooley Funeral Service, Inc. See it all on the Web! gional Office at (201) 722-9090, ex- tension no. 210, (201) 679-6895 or www.goleader.com [email protected]. www.goleader.com Caring & Courteous Service to the Cranford / Westfield Area Since 1913 N ow Offering the New Westfield Willow View Mausoleum, 556 Westfield Avenue 233-0255 A Unique Concept in John L. Dooley Memorial Properties. Manager NJ License # 4100

B eauty, Dignity & Peace Cranford 218 North Avenue Overlooking Bunnell Pond. 276-0255 Family Lots, Single Graves, Niches & Community Mausoleums Charles V. Dooley Faithfully Serving the Public Since 1868, on 105 Picturesque Acres. Manager Fairview Cemetery NJ License # 3703 Nonprofit • Nonsectarian 1100 East Broad Street • Westfield, NJ 908-232-0781 A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 9

See it all in color at! Sports Section www.goleader.com THE WEEK IN SPORTS Pages 9-11 JAICHON SCORES 13; LAW, DEGNAN PUT IN 12 EACH Basketball Raiders Ransack Union Farmer Girls, 48-25

By DAVID B. CORBIN to a multitude of accurate assists. Jaichon rolled in seven of her points Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times Senior Kaylin Jaichon (1 blocked in the first quarter and Degnan hit Rebounding positively from a shot) pulled nine rebounds and led three to give the Raiders a 10-5 lead stinging, 40-39, setback to Marist the team in scoring with 13 points. but a series of successful fast breaks and tuning up for several days of Seniors Jackie Law (7 rebounds, steal) resulting in 10 unanswered points in competition in Florida from Decem- and Laura Degnan (4 rebounds, 3 the second quarter stretched the lead ber 26 to December 30, the Scotch assists) netted 12 points each and to 20-5. Four more points late in the Plains-Fanwood High School girls Saxony Nielsen (1 rebound, steal, quarter pushed the Raiders to a 24-8 basketball team ransacked the visit- blocked shot, assist) sank six points. lead at the half. Degnan, Jaichon and ing Union Farmer girls, 48-25, on Kathryn DeCataldo (3 rebounds) had Law each sank four points and Nielsen December 23. four of the Raiders’ 16 assists and hit two. Speaking of rebounding, the 1-1 Evie Klotz (3 points) had three. Aysia “We played a lot better today. We Raiders dominated the boards and Peterson had two points, two rebounds finished! We had a lot of similar op- followed up with fast breaks that led and an assist, while Nikki Mineo had portunities against Marist. We just to the majority of their scoring thanks a rebound and an assist. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times LOOKING FOR A CLEAR SHOT…Blue Devil Tri-Captain Mike Lessner, center, looks for a clear shot against a Colonia defender. Lessner finished with seven points. SABITINO HITS 11, PUSAR 10; DiIORIO GETS 7 BOARDS Patriots Top Westfield, 54-42, In Butch Kowal Tournament

By DAVID B. CORBIN of the John “Butch” Kowal Tourna- the only offensive rebound in the half Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times ment in Rahway on December 26. and the problem was compounded by Not having had the opportunity to The 0-1 Blue Devils found them- easy lay-ups being missed and early play rival Scotch Plains-Fanwood in selves decisively on the short end in foul trouble on the part of center Pat it’s scheduled season opener due to defensive and particularly offensive Sabitino. inclement weather on December 19 rebounds, which translated to a one “They (Colonia) are a big team. Pat David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times may had taken its toll in the Westfield shot and out rut in the first half. Se- (Sabitino) got in a little foul trouble DRIVING HARD TOWARD THE BASKET…Raider Saxony Nielsen, No. 4, drives in for a lay-up against the Union High School boys basketball team’s nior forward Tony DiIorio, who led when we got to the end of the half and Farmers. Nielsen finished with six points in the 48-25 victory. 54-42 loss to Colonia in the first round the team with seven rebounds, had CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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MASONRY REPAIRS Fireplaces • Chimneys Porches • Steps Fast Reliable Service 732-752-4242 Cell: 732-421-0033 40 Years Experience Marigliano Licensed & Insured • All credit cards Page 10 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Devil’s Den Sinnenberg An All-America Devils of the Week Tara Handza In Classroom and on Field Diana Venezia Girls Basketball By BRUCE JOHNSON Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times They were like clockwork. Every Part of Spiders’ super freshman class, last summer and was not going to be ninth induction ceremonies on Nov. Saturday afternoon, usually a little Alexi has been used mostly swim- in attendance as of late October. But 22, 2010 … tick tick tick … bit after 2 p.m., after her weekend ming the deep distance events, 1000 there is only one Sam Mitchell, and FOOTBALL UPDATE soccer or basketball or lacrosse prac- and 1650. he found a way to make the trip from Congratulations to Ricardo tice/game, Lauren Sinnenberg and her @ Colin Sullivan (’07) swam the Federal Way, Wash., and be there to Johnson, T.J. Mruz and Chris dad Paul would show up to CJ’s Extra fifth fastest breaststroke in honor his teammate from long ago. Sheehan, who earned first-team All- Innings. Lauren, probably in sixth or Susquehanna history (1:03.49) on Gerry McGinley (’48) accepted the County honors, and also Group 4 All- seventh grade, would start buying Nov. 7 vs. Lebanon Valley. The sopho- award for “No. 10.” State recognition – second team for packs and packs of NBA or WNBA more also won the 100 breast (1:04.67) McCoy made the trip from Novato, Ricardo and T.J., third team for Chris. cards, and soccer cards on the rare in a 132-130 win over Catholic. Calif., and was joined by a bunch of Johnson ranks right up there with the occasions we had any in stock, while @ Mike Venezia (’07) hit a shot at Ketcham’s former WHS swim team- best runners in school history, Mruz her dad would open up his computer- the buzzer to lift Colgate over Central mates, including Todd Rothbard of was the consummate linebacker, David B. Corbin (December 2003 files) for The Westfield Leader and The Times ized checklist sheets to keep track of Connecticut, then had a team-best 14 San Jose, Calif., and Don Mutz of while Sheehan’s play at split end was TIGHT LIKE A BOA CONSTRICTOR…Blue Devil Lee Tomasso, top, has what cards they needed to fill the points in a win over Dartmouth. The Westfield. superb. Cedrick Goodridge wrapped in a tight waist and a chin chancery in his 152-lb different sets. sophomore has started all 10 games Myers and King were the Bob Tony DiIorio, Eric Moran, Bran- bout. Later, Tomasso pinned Goodridge in 5:26. That was probably in the early days and led the 3-7 Raiders in scoring six Cousy and Bill Russell of the 1962 don Dietz, Willie Johnson, Pat Gray of this century. Lauren went on to times. He leads the team with an 11.2 WHS team that knocked off basket- and A.J. Murray also got some post- become an outstanding athlete at scoring average. ball giants Trenton and Camden be- season recognition, but somehow the D. Blair Corbin’s WHS (Class of ’06), earning nine @ Matt Green (’08) swam a life- fore falling to Newark Weequahic by play of junior Joe Ondi was over- varsity letters, three each in soccer, time unshaved-best 21.9 for the Provi- three points in the state Group 4 final. looked. When the tough yards were basketball and lacrosse. She also was dence College men’s swim team. Hall of Fame president Lee Hale needed, Ondi was always in there at team captain of all three sports. HALL OF FAME UPDATE presented a plaque to Dr. Margaret fullback and lead blocker for Johnson Now a junior at Williams College There hasn’t been room for this the Dolan, superintendent of schools, or Murray. And when big plays were Blue Devils Raiders in Williamstown, Mass., Lauren was past few weeks (and there wasn’t honoring Westfield as “Titletown, needed on defense, Ondi, almost as New Jersey,” for having the most state often as Mruz, was there to do it from championships — team and indi- his outside linebacker post. vidual — of any public school in state DEVILS OF THE WEEK history. That covers 90 years (1918- This week’s winners of a free sub 2008), 32 sports (male and female), from Al the Owner at Westfield Subs Walk Down Memory Lane 333 schools and nearly 20,000 cham- (261 South Avenue East) are Tara pionships. Handza and Diana Venezia. Handza, From the archives of The Westfield Kivetz, seeded third at 171, wound up Westfield had 354 through the 2007- a point guard, did what seniors are Leader and The Scotch Plains- with a fourth place finish. 08 school year, followed by supposed to do, with 23 points, eight Fanwood Times – www.goleader.com December 28, 2002: The Raider Haddonfield (324), Asbury Park (323), assists and five rebounds to help the December 27, 1997: The Raider wrestling team came up a half a point Trenton (322), Willingboro (297), WHS girls basketball team quickly boys’ basketball team won its third shy of sharing the team title at the Plainfield (296), Bernards (268), bounce back from its opening loss straight game of the season, by bounc- John Goles Invitational Tournament Montclair (265), Columbia (247) and and knock off Irvington. Venezia, a ing Columbia, 62-51, in the opening in Warren Hills. Delaware Valley took Moorestown (227) as the top 10. junior, scored 23 points, including round of the Cindy Pools Classic at first with a 161.5 total followed by If there is an athlete, coach or team the game winning with 0:07 on the Scotch Plains. Senior guard Dave the Raiders at 161. The Raiders you would like to be considered for clock, in a win over Randolph the Gewirtz sank 25 points and sent Co- claimed the most individual champi- future induction in the WAHF, either following night. lumbia reeling when he nailed 14 ons with five. Raider senior Matt contact Bill Jordan at Taylor-Love The Devil’s Den appears Thursday points in the first quarter to give the Loomis (215-lbs) became the 21st, Realty, Ed Tranchina at the Westfield in The Westfield Leader during the Raiders a 20-7 lead. Seniors Jeff three-time champion in the history of High School athletic department, or school year. Contact us with com- Feighner and Donald Patterson hit the tournament. go to www.westfieldnj.com/wahf and ments, complaints and suggestion s for 10 and nine points, respectively. Junior Derek Francavilla repeated fill out a form. at [email protected]. Win or lose, Junior Ben Martinez and sophomore as champion, this time at 125 where There are still 691 days until the WHS4EVR! Ron Jenerette had seven points each, he demolished Mark Goble of New- David B. Corbin (November 2005 files) for The Westfield Leader and The Times and senior Doug Bishop added four ton in 32 seconds. Sophomore Steve ONE OF MANY SAVES…Blue Devil Lauren Sinnenberg made many saves in the points. Mineo handled Chris Kelly of Dela- 1-1, double overtime game with the Raiders. December 30, 1998: Four points ware Valley, 8-0, to grab the 119-lb. by Carolyn Matthews and six by Liz crown. Junior Andrew Silber won recently named an NCAA Division 3 time to contact all the members of the McKeon, along with a very stingy his first Goles title with a 4-2, over- first team All-America goalie. Con- Hall of Fame committee to see if zone defense, gave the Blue Devil time victory in the finals. Junior sider these numbers: Williams went they’d approve this being written), girls basketball team a 10-2 first quar- Andrew Loomis claimed the heavy- 19-1-1, with Sinnenberg starting all but the eighth WHS Athletic Hall of ter lead and the momentum it needed weight title. 21 games. In nearly 1,623 minutes, Fame induction dinner on Nov. 24 to defeat Roselle Park, 36-25, in the December 23, 2003: The Rahway she allowed just 11 goals, finishing was another tremendous night. Every finals of the Panther Pride Tourna- wrestlers defeated the Blue Devils, with an 0.61 goals against average. two years, the Monday-before - ment in Roselle Park. McKeon put in 52-23, in Westfield. Seniors Robbie She had nine shutouts and was in- Thanksgiving celebration of Westfield 18 points against the Panthers and Mench (103-lbs), Lee Tomasso (152- volved in three others. athletics has been my by-far favorite previously sank 18 in a win over lbs) and Chris Johnson (189-lbs) and In the past two years, Sinnenberg day of that year, starting with the Jonathan Dayton to become the junior Tom DelDuca (145-lbs) won and Williams have gone 36-2-1, in- noon luncheon at WHS and capped tournament’s Most Valuable Player. their bouts in convincing fashion. cluding 27-0-1 in the regular season. off by the dinner at the Westwood. December 29, 1999: A national January 2, 2003: Control of the Following a 3-2, overtime win over Highlights this year, and there were flare continued at the Blue Devil Clas- boards, dogged defense, effectiveness Amherst in this year’s NESCAC title many, included a moment of silence sic Wrestling Tournament in Westfield with accurate passing and shooting game, the Ephs lost 3-1 to eventual for the late Gary Kehler, the legendary and this time a very impressive Pan- earned the undefeated, 5-0 Raider national champion Wheaton (Ill.) this coach who passed away last Decem- ther team from Orange High School girls basketball team a lopsided, 72- year in the semifinals. ber; Sam Mitchell’s stirring words in Hillsborough, North Carolina took 19, triumph over hosting Westfield. Sinnenberg also earned Academic about his ex-teammate, the late Bobby Courtesy of Bill Howard (WHSIHA) for The Westfield Leader and The Times All-District 1 after four semesters of Dougherty; tributes by Steve McCoy TAKING A SHOT…Westfield fired 41 shots-on-goal in their 1-1 tie with Cranford top honors with 153.5 points to out- Leading the assault was sophomore on December 17 at Warinanco rink. claw the defending champion Roselle center Hillary Klimowicz, who scored being on the Dean’s List as a biology and Jodi Ketcham for the late John Park Panthers that finished second 16 points, and sophomore point guard major and has been placed on the Ketcham; and Dick Myers’ touching with 134. Blue Devil senior Mike Maura Gillooly, who put in 14 points. ESPN Academic All-America Team words about big Bob King, who was ballot. unable to attend due to serious illness. Blue Devil Icemen Tie See it all on the web in color . . . Here are some other WHS athletes One inductee came from Hawaii who have continued to compete in (Rebecca Krohn, with her 12-week- Cougars, Defeat Cougars www.goleader.com athletics on the college level (and old baby) and another from Switzer- please let us know of any others, for land (Vicky Nusse) for the induction. The Westfield High School ice down from behind. PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE future mention): The 78-year-old Mitchell (’50), a hockey team tied rival Cranford, 1-1, A minute later, Henry O’Brien’s TOWN OF WESTFIELD @ Tom Bonard (’07) is fourth on 7- member of the WHS Hall of Fame, than permitted signage in the garage only. on December 17, but stepped up to outlet pass sprung sophomore CJ BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Proposed is parking in the side and rear 3 Montclair State in minutes played had some major medical problems crush the Cougars, 7-2, on December Meyer, who broke into the Cranford The Board of Adjustment of the Town of yard. Ordinance prohibits parking of a (21.9 per game) and has started seven 22 in Union County Ice Hockey zone, stick-handled past a defender Westfield, New Jersey will meet on Janu- motor vehicle so that signs are visible from of the 10 games. He is second in League action at Warinanco Rink in and flicked a rising shot past Mayberry ary 12, 2009 in the Council Chambers at the public right of way or abutting residen- assists (23) and steals (16), and is the Municipal Building, 425 East Broad tial zone districts. Roselle. to make the score 2-1. Next, junior Street, Westfield, New Jersey at 7:30 p.m. averaging 5.9 ppg. Sean Young, a 6-7 The Blue Devils out-shot Cranford, wing Zander Maslow scored off a Ashok Maliakal & Marina Thottan, 519 to hear and consider the following appeal SP-F grad, is second on the team in St. Mark’s Avenue, Applicant seeks per- 41-17, in the first game. Cougar scramble in the slot, assisted by jun- for use (d) and bulk (c) variance(s) from mission to retain a garage contrary to scoring at 10.9 ppg. goaltender Colin Mayberry was out- ior center Matt Wronski and senior the requirements of the Westfield Land Section 12.04F1 of the Land Use Ordi- @ Liz Hawkins (’08) became the Use Ordinance. standing. Ten minutes into the second defender/captain Mike Foley. nance. Ordinance allows a maximum cov- first Binghamton female swimmer to period Blue Devil junior Dylan Moran Cougar Pat Hartnett closed the gap Frances Watson-Curry, 411 West erage of buildings and above ground struc- go sub-minute in both the 100-yard Broad Street, Applicant is seeking Pre- tures of 20%. Proposed is 25.6% (includes scored on a powerplay, assisted by to 3-2 with just under seven minutes liminary and Final Site Plan Approval along house, porch and garage). backstroke 59.7 and 100 butterfly 59.9 sophomore Nick Attanasio. A few left, but Meyer buried the rebound of with “c” and “d” variance relief. Applicant when she pulled it off Nov. 22-23 at Five Star Driving School, LLC, 335 minutes later, Cougar Gary Kramkowski’s shot 82 seconds later. proposes to obtain approval for the place- West Broad Street (Block 3001, Lot 2) the Bucknell Invitational. The fresh- Merwede’s shot from the left circle Kramkowski’s power-play blast from ment of a dumpster, approval to expand located in a GB-1 zone district, is seeking man also had top relay splits of 24.4 the driveway and approval to use a portion was the only one to get past Blue the right point, in the period’s final preliminary and final site plan approval of the rear yard as a parking area. The 50 free, 54.1 100 free, 26.6 50 fly. Devil freshman keeper Steve seconds, extended the lead to 5-2. (modification of utilization) along with a existing mixed use of the premises as a @ Anna Koehler (’07) was a sopho- use variance to permit them to occupy 465 Wronski. Meyer nailed his third goal early in funeral home on the first floor and a single square feet on the first floor of the building more libero on the New York Univer- After a scoreless first period in the the third period. Emotions flared and a bedroom apartment on the second floor is for purposes of conducting a driving school. sity volleyball team that finished 25- a legal nonconforming use (granted by second game, the Blue Devils erupted series of penalty calls ensued. With The proposed use of a Driving School is variance) in the RM-6 zone which permits 16 and captured the ECAC Upstate to score five in the second period. Just less than six minutes remaining, considered an “Educational Use”. The only one and two family dwellings (Section Championship with a 3-0 victory over Land Use Ordinance does not address (or 1:35 into the second, with the teams Cranford got a man advantage after a 11.12A) and as such the application con- specifically permit) the category of “Edu- Potsdam. skating 4-on-4 due to overlapping hard collision in the corner resulted in stitutes an expansion of a nonconforming IN SYNC…The Synchroettes, mem- cational Uses” and any use specifically not @ Alexi Kuska (’08) was second in use (“d” variance). Applicant also seeks bers of the Essex Skating Club, will penalties, Attanasio slapped a shot an ejection. Westfield held and in the permitted is considered prohibited. Appli- variance from the following sections of the 1000 free (10:25.20) for Richmond participate with five teams in four divi- past Mayberry, set up by junior Joe waning seconds, with the teams again cant seeks the following variances: Land Use Ordinance: in a narrow loss to William and Mary. Section 11.26A of the Land Use Ordi- sions: Novice, Juvenile, Pre-Juvenile Kramkowski. Less than two minutes at full strength, defender Moran sped Section 11.12A of the Land Use Ordi- nance. A driving school is not a permitted and Preliminary. Over 60 Synchroettes, later, Cougar Jake Zimmerman scored up the left side and flicked in a rising nance allows one and two family dwell- PUBLIC NOTICE principal use. including Kate Bagger (Novice), Halle ings. The existing mixed use of a funeral on a penalty shot, after being pulled shot with four seconds remaining. Section 17.02C of the Land Use Ordi- TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS O’Hern (Juvenile) and Jenny Bagger home on the first floor with a single bed- nance requires 18 parking spaces. 10 room apartment on the second floor was NOTICE IS hereby given that at a meet- (Pre-Juvenile), all from Westfield, will parking spaces are proposed. approved August 21, 1947. Proposed is ing of the Township Council of the Town- compete. Pictured is Kate Bagger with an expansion of a legal non-conforming Daniel & Michele Glazer, 736 St. ship of Scotch Plains, held on Tuesday, the Synchroettes Novice team. use. Mark’s Avenue, Applicant seeks permis- December 23, 2008 the following ordi- Section 12.04G of the Land Use Ordi- sion to construct front and rear additions nances entitled: PUBLIC NOTICE nance allows a maximum all improve- contrary to Sections 12.03D and 11.09E7 AN ORDINANCE SUPPLE- FAIRVIEW CEMETERY ments coverage of 50%. Applicant pro- of the Land Use Ordinance. Ordinance MENTING AND AMENDING poses 55.5% requires a front yard setback of 35.8 feet. ANNUAL MEETING CHAPTER VII TRAFFIC OF Section 17.03C.6 of the Land Use Ordi- Proposed is 31.92 feet. Ordinance re- THE REVISED GENERAL OR- The Annual Meeting of the Lot Owners nance requires a 5 foot setback of the quires a rear yard setback of 35 feet. DINANCES OF THE TOWN- of Fairview Cemetery will be held at the driveway and parking areas from the abut- Proposed is 25 feet. SHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS, Cemetery office, 1100 East Broad Street, ting residential properties. Applicant pro- Mr. & Mrs. Robert Fischer, 14 Bennett 1978 WITH REGARD TO STOP Westfield, New Jersey, Monday January poses 1.5 to 2 feet. Place, Applicant seeks permission to con- INTERSECTIONS. 26, 2009 at 4:00 P.M., for the election of Section 17.05B of the Land Use Ordi- struct an addition to the rear of the house three Trustees each for a term of three nance requires a minimum 20 foot drive- AN ORDINANCE SUPPLE- contrary to Section 11.06E7 of the Land years, to succeed Everson F. Pearsall, way width for two way traffic. Applicant MENTING AND AMENDING Use Ordinance. Ordinance requires a rear Anthony Scutti, and William J. Shep- proposes 17 to 20 foot width. CHAPTER VII TRAFFIC OF yard setback of 35 feet. Proposed is 29 herd, whose terms will then expire and for Section 17.06 of the Land Use Ordi- THE REVISED GENERAL OR- feet. the transaction of such other business as nance requires off street parking and drive- DINANCES OF THE TOWN- may be presented at the meeting. way areas to be paved with a bituminous Carl H. Blendulf, 425 Quantuck Lane, SHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS, Richard M. Ralph concrete pavement. Applicant proposes Applicant seeks permission to construct a 1978 WITH REGARD TO PRO- Secretary/Treasurer dirt and gravel. two story addition to the rear of the house, HIBITED PARKING. 1 T - 1/1/09, The Leader Fee: $15.30 Section 17.07 of the Land Use Ordi- and an entry foyer and portico to the front ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING nance requires all parking, loading areas of the house contrary to Sections 12.03D DEVELOPMENT FEES FOR PUBLIC NOTICE and driveways to be curbed with granite and 12.04G of the Land Use Ordinance. TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH block curbing. Applicant proposes no new Ordinance requires a front yard setback of TOWN OF WESTFIELD PLAINS FOR COUNCIL ON curbing. 37.28 feet. Proposed is 35 feet 4 inches. REGIONAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT AFFORDABLE HOUSING Ordinance allows a maximum all improve- 425 East Broad Street James & Kimberly Peterson, 257 THIRD ROUND RULES. ment coverage of 40% not to exceed 7,200 Westfield, New Jersey 07090 Kimball Avenue, Applicant seeks per- square feet. Proposed is 35.33% = 7,521 AN ORDINANCE PERMIT- Tel. # (908) 789-4070 mission to allow a commercial vehicle to square feet. TING GAMES OF CHANCE ON Fax # (908) 789-4076 be parked on residential property contrary SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2009, to Sections 15.03B1, 15.03B2, 15.03B3 Variances, waivers or exceptions from Please be advised that the Westfield JANUARY 25, 2009 AND and 16.07C of the Land Use Ordinance. certain site plan details or relief from re- Board of Health will conduct their annual APRIL 5, 12, 19, 26, MAY 3, 10, Ordinance allows a maximum length of 18 quirements may be sought as appropri- Re-organization Board Meeting on Mon- 17, 24, 31, JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28 feet for a truck used for commercial pur- ate. day, January 12, 2009, at 5:00 PM. The 2009 IN THE TOWNSHIP OF poses parked on residential property. Pro- Plans and application are on file in the meeting will be held in Council Confer- SCOTCH PLAINS. posed is 22.6 feet. Ordinance permits a office of the Town Engineer, 959 North ence Chamber, located on the first floor of sign area of 2 square feet and signage Avenue West, Westfield, New Jersey and were adopted on second and final read- the Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East contents of owner’s name, phone number may be seen Monday through Friday from ing. Broad Street, Westfield, New Jersey. and address, to allow front and side yard 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS Members of the public are welcome to Jim O’Connor (www.njsportpics.com) for The Westfield Leader and The Times parking. Proposed is a 2 square foot sign Kathleen A. Nemeth Barbara Riepe attend. AVOIDING AN OBSTACLE…Duke Blue Devil Lance Thomas, No. 42, of Scotch with business name and information. Or- Secretary, Board of Adjustment Township Clerk Date: December 26, 2008 Plains maneuvers around an obstacle in a game against Xavier at the Izod Center dinance allows parking of trucks with other 1 T - 1/1/09, The Leader Fee: $126.48 1 T - 1/1/09, The Times Fee: $37.74 1 T - 1/1/09, The Leader Fee: $16.32 in East Rutherford on December 20. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 11 Lady Blue Devils Nip Ram Hoopsters, 54-53 Junior Diana Venezia banged in the last of her game-leading 23 points seconds before the buzzer to give the Westfield High School girls basket- ball team a 54-53 victory over Randolph in the first round of the Len Sepanak Tournament in Basking Ridge on December 27. Venezia, who hit 9-for-10 from the charity line, also had seven rebounds, two blocks, an assist and two steals. Senior Tara Handza scored 19 points, including two 3-pointers, had six rebounds and three assists. Keri Pringle had 11 rebounds, four points and a block. Charlotte O’Leary had two points, four steals, two rebounds, one block and an assist. Amanda Markowski had four points and Sara Nelson had two points and four re- David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times bounds. Martina Landeka had four GUARDED CLOSELY UNDERNEATH…Raider center Kaylin Jaichon, right, rebounds and an assist, and Danielle had nine rebounds and 13 points. Miller had an assist. Randolph 14 19 11 10 54 Westfield 18 11 12 12 53 Basketball Raiders Ransack Redmond (Wa) Stops Lady Raiders in OT Union Farmer Girls, 48-25 Fred K. Lecomte for The Westfield Leader and The Times HIGH FLYING LAY-UP…Kevin Maroney, No. 4, attacked the Holmdel Hornets, netting 16 points including two key three- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 Kaylin Jaichon sank 17 points and grabbed nine rebounds, and Laura pointers to lead the Raiders to a 55-53 victory in the John Kowal Tournament in Rahway didn’t finish. We turned the ball over were right at the (3-point) line. I got Degnan put in 16 points but the or we missed lay-ups,” Raider Head kids who can make them. We took Redmond, Wash. girls pulled out a Coach Bruce Davis said. “A lot of fast some shots but if they don’t go in, you 56-51 victory over the Scotch Plains- MARONEY SCORES 16 POINTS, SOLOMON SCORES 12 breaks! We were running the floor got to rebound. We got a lot of chances Fanwood High School girls basket- well today. Once Laura started hit- because we got a lot of rebounds,” ball team in the first round of the KSA ting shots, it opened things up. The coach Davis said. Tournament in Orlando, Fla. on De- only time we had trouble was when Looking southward toward Florida, cember 27. Jackie Law had eight Raider Cagers Surge in 4th, they jumped into man (defense) and Davis added, “I hope they are excited points, seven assists and five re- started pressuring us but we settled about playing well because those bounds, Kathryn DeCataldo had seven down.” games count. It’s not like a vacation. points and Saxony Nielsen scored The Farmers jumped into the man We got to play well.” three points. Singe Holmdel Boys, 55-53 defense in the third quarter and du- Union 5 3 11 6 25 Sc. Pl.-Fwd 10 12 13 10 6 51 eled to an 11-11 tie with the help of Sc. Pl.-Fanwood 10 14 11 13 48 Redmond, Wa 11 15 10 9 11 56 free trips to the charity line. The Farm- By FRED LECOMTE stormed back with hustle ball and end and made some big shots. ers were 6-for-6 from the line in the Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times control under the boards. Bonacum Raymond did a great job rebounding quarter and were 10-for-17 in the The Scotch Plains-Fanwood boys’ bagged a two-point jumper, Solomon the entire game and had a few key game. basketball team rallied from an eight- sank a 3-pointer and Maroney fin- rebounds at critical times in the final “They didn’t score much except point, third-quarter deficit to defeat ished off the quarter with a 3-bagger quarter. Marcus is starting to come from the free throw line. Some of the Holmdel Hornets, 55-53, in the to put the Raiders in front, 41-39. around from an early preseason in- those were from ticky-tack fouls. opening round of the Butch Kowal The Raiders took a 48-42 lead in jury and really gives us that physical Sometimes that happens. I tell our Tournament in Rahway on Decem- the fourth quarter when Dougher sank presence out there. I was also proud kids we got to play through that,” ber 26. both free throws in the final minute. the way Reggie played. He has coach Davis said. Senior Kevin Maroney led the 1-2 Shirvanian hit a 3-pointer and struggled a bit but had to play 32 The Farmer defense began to sag a Raiders with 16 points, including Maroney sank a hook shot. After a minutes at the point today and played bit in the fourth quarter and the Raid- two 3-pointers, and finished with timeout, the Hornets hit back-to-back great defense on their best shooter ers mixed fast breaks with several five rebounds. Sophomore Patrick 3-pointer to cut the lead to 54-53 with when he was called upon,” concluded attempts from 3-point range. Nielsen Dougher hit all four of his free throws just 10.6 ticks left. After Maroney coach Martinez. and Law bucketed four points each, in the final minute to finish with sank one from the stripe, Hornet Mike Sc. Pl.-Fanwood 13 14 14 14 55 Peterson rolled a 2-pointer and Klotz seven points and senior Ishmil Perillo’s lay up swished around the Holmdel 13 18 8 14 53 banged in a 3-pointer. Raymond, who had 13 rebounds and iron only to drop into the alert hands “They started collapsing on the in- six points, had a grab at the buzzer to of Raymond. JP Stevens Boys Burn side and were leaving us open. We secure the victory. Reggie Solomon “Despite losing our offensive force added 12 points, including a 3- from last year we still can score. We Raider Cagers in OT pointer, and added three assists and scored a good amount of points and JP Stevens overcame a 13-2, first- People with Disabilities two steals. Senior Marcus Green sank executed better today. We have a lot quarter deficit to burn the Scotch Volleyball Classes Set eight points and grabbed four re- of aspects on the team and a lot of Plains-Fanwood High School boys bounds. Tim Bonacum grabbed two defense style. We boxed out and basketball team, 55-52, in overtime The Union County Board of Cho- rebounds and chipped in two points, in the semifinals of the John “Butch” sen Freeholders and the YM-YWHA stepped on their shooters. Although David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times while Matt Manns and Shenick they executed and scored points, we Kowal Tournament in Rahway on of Union County (UC) will co-spon- LOOKING TO SET UP A PLAY…Blue Devil Chris Sheehan, No. 30, had four Alcine each contributed two-points. December 28. Marcus Green pulled sor a series of volleyball classes for assists, eight points and three rebounds against the Colonia Patriots in the first still got the rebounds. Kevin, myself round of the Butch Kowal Tournament. Holmdel’s Eric Shirvanian posted a along with Marcus, who has the big 13 rebounds and scored nine points people with developmental disabili- game-high 22 points for the 2-2 Raiders. Reggie Solomon ties. strong football body, is a big plus,” “The key to the game was the play said Raymond. had 12 points and Ishmael Raymond Interested individuals are encour- of our two sophomores, Dougher and had 10 points and eight rebounds. aged to enroll. Jim McCue, Direc- “Second half, we played a little Patriots Top Westfield, 54-42, Bonacum, who came in the game. more to our liking and it got us back Melvin Hanciles scored 10 points. tor of Athletics at Union County Patrick hit some big free throws at the College, will be the head instructor. in the game. Maroney did a good job Sc. Pl.-Fwd 13 10 16 9 4 52 end. We are going to need key contri- of asserting himself on the offensive JP Stevens 2 12 20 14 7 55 Classes will run on eight Thursday In Butch Kowal Tournament butions from our bench and they evenings, beginning February 5, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 stepped up big tonight,” said Raider from 8 to 9 p.m. The $8 cost covers Head Coach Ben Martinez. all eight sessions. I think that hurt us as a whole,” said three rebounds. Jared Rogers had two After a 13-13 first quarter, the Hor- Pre-registration is required. In- DiIorio, who finished with four points points, a rebound and an assist, and nets stepped up to take a 31-27 lead at formation and registration materi- and two assists. “We had trouble fin- Ryan Hess had three rebounds. halftime. Green scored eight points, als may be obtained by calling Mar- ishing. It’s the first game of the sea- The 2-1 Patriots inflicted most of Maroney pushed in seven, Solomon garet Heisey, Program Coordinator son. We haven’t played. Our last their damage from a trio of players. rolled in six points, Raymond put in for the UC Department of Parks and scrimmage was two weeks ago. Not Nmandi Usuwa sank 15 points, Mike four points and Manns added two. Community Renewal, at (908) 527- playing at game speed can get you a Nweme bucketed 13 points, includ- “In the first half we were shell 4806. little rusty.” ing a slam-dunk, and J.J. D’Amico shocked a little bit. We wanted to This program is offered as a ser- Sabitino, who had three rebounds, hit for 14 points. come out and establish our inside vice of the UC Board of Chosen led the Blue Devils with 11 points Trailing 24-18 at the half, the Blue presence and play at a faster pace Freeholders with funding through a and Dave Pusar (1 offensive and 1 Devils shifted into a smooth gear, than Holmdel wanted to play but we grant from the New Jersey Depart- defensive rebound) bucketed 10 dominated the boards and ran off six did not do a good job of getting the ment of Community Affairs, Office points. Senior Mike Lessner (rebound, straight points in the third quarter to ball inside or attacking the basket. We of Recreation. For general informa- steal, assist) sank seven points and knot the score 24-24 and eventually turned the ball over too many times tion about other programs, please senior Chris Sheehan put up eight won the quarter 13-9 to make the and let Holmdel control the tempo. visit website at: www.ucnj.org. points, had four assists and pulled score 33-31 entering the fourth quar- We played at a level of defense that ter. was unacceptable to what we wanted “That’s how we have to play all of to play at. Also, we played without First Frost 9U Mini-Meet Is our games. That is how we are going two of our starters and one of our to have success this year. We can’t dig main guys on the bench, so early on ourselves a hole and that’s what we we were lacking chemistry,” coach Huge Success at FSPY did today. We fought back but we Martinez said. used all our energy there and we lost Fred K. Lecomte for The Westfield Leader and The Times Mother Nature provided the an- ond in the 50-freestyle and first in the Holmdel built a 35-27 lead in the SURGING PAST A HORNET…Raider sophomore Patrick Dougher, No. 15, was it at the end,” DiIorio said. third quarter, however the Raiders a key in the game as he hit all four of his free throws in the final minute. nual snowy backdrop for the First 25-backstroke. Kyle Foster, John The Patriots, however, came very Frost 9-and-Under Mini-Meet hosted Williamson and Edward Chrystal all much alive midway through the fourth recently by the Fanwood-Scotch posted PBs. quarter. After each team scored five Plains Y (FSPY). The meet featured Boys age 9: Colin Sullivan finished points, the Patriots pushed in 10 un- over 400 swimmers from YMCA second in the 50-freestyle and third in answered points to seize a 48-36 lead swim teams throughout the area in- the 100IM. Brody Rash placed third with less than three minutes remain- The Westfield Leader - The Times cluding Westfield, Somerset Valley, in the 50-freestyle and 25-backstroke. ing. Eight points were simple lay-ups Lakeland Hills and Madison. FSPY Tyler Daniskas took second in the 25- after offensive rebounds under the performed very well. freestyle. FSPY A team took second board and two points were from free Serving the Town Since 1890 Boys age 7: Luciano Betman placed in the 100-freestyle relay. Nick Heath, throws. Pusar hit seven of his points third in the 25-backstroke and had a Kyle Foster, John Williamson, Ed- in the quarter, which included 3-for- PO Box 250 • Westfield, New Jersey 07091 personal best (PB) in the 25-butter- ward Chrystal, Joshua Davidson, 3 from the line. fly. Chris Hoerrner, Marcello Betman and Tele - (908) 232-4407 • Fax - (908) 232-0473 Westfield 8 10 13 11 42 Boys age 8: Zach Arber took sec- Christian Buren posted PBs. Colonia 12 12 9 21 54 Girls age 6: Martha Lewand won The Leader • The Times WF Fencers Excel the 25-freestyle and 25-backstroke, Blue Devil Boys Stop and placed second in the 25-butterfly. New Subscriber • Renewal At Regional Tourney Girls age 7: Lauren Davidson Tiger Cagers, 59-51 placed third in the 25-freestyle and Westfield youth fencers Jessica Tony DiIorio pumped in 28 points One Year - $28 • Two Years - $52 • Three Years - $76 Whang and David Parker achieved backstroke, and took fourth in the 25- butterfly. to lead the Westfield High School (September - May) great success at the second Annual boys basketball team to a 59-51 vic- College $20 Barbara Lynch Charity Regional Girls age 8: Erika Frazier finished third in the 25-breaststroke, freestyle tory over South Plainfield in a conso- Youth Circuit fencing tournament lation game at the John “Butch” Kowal Name on December 21. Over 300 youth and butterfly. Girls age 9: Julie Stankiewicz Tournament on December 27 in fencers, from as far away as Florida Rahway. Junior center Pat Sabitino Address and Canada, attended the nation- touched first in the 50-freestyle and 100IM. Stankiewicz also placed third put in 13 points, while Chris Sheehan ally recognized tournament. and Dave Pusar each sank five points. City State ZIP Whang finished second in the in the 25-freestyle and 25-butterfly. FSPY A team won the 100-freestyle Westfield 16 13 15 15 59 Y10 mixed sabre event and 16th in South Plainfield 10 9 17 15 51 Phone # the Y12 mixed sabre event, while relay. being the highest finishing female Payment Cash Check Charge in each event. Whang is a fifth grader at Franklin School and cur- A Winning Equation: CC # rently a student at the Manhattan Fencing Club. Roosevelt sixth Exp. Date Sec. Code: grader David Parker finished eight Athletic Skill + Academic Achievement +

in the Y12 mixed sabre event thanks Signature to scoring nine straight touches after A Boomerang Recruiting DVD = Subscriptions Are Pre-Paid and Are Non-Refundable being one touch away from elimi- nation during has quarterfinal bout. Parker attends the Westfield Fenc- College Scholarships & Acceptances ing Club and the newly opened [email protected] • www.goleader.com American Fencing Center in (908) 447-4594/boomervid.com We Reach People... Not Driveways! Westfield. Boomerang Video Page 12 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION CLASSIFIEDS HonorScotch Plains-Fanwood Roll High School HOUSE FOR RENT HELP WANTED WESTFIELD, “Something special is happening First Marking Period NO REALTOR FEES!!! here.” Grow with Prudential NJ 4bdrm, 2 full baths, appl. f/place. Properties! Hiring new/experi- SCOTCH PLAINS – Scotch Plains- Lindenberg, Isabel Lopez, Raymond Lowrey, Fanwood High School Principal Kaitlyn Magnus, Brianna Mahoney, Kyle Quiet street near Washington enced agents! Excellent training. Mahoney, Jeffrey Marks, Shannon McGovern, School and park. $2,300.00/mo. (908) 232-5664 (Margie) David Heisey announced the school’s David McNally, Jake Merlo, Jessica Moore, + utls. (908) 279-4493 first marking period honor roll. Tyler Palkoski, Hyun-Jin Park, Akshay Patel, CHILDCARE NEEDED To earn high honor roll status, a Lindsay Payne, Joelle Pisauro, Alissa Ricci, OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT student must earn straight A’s if he or Stephanie Robak, Evelyn Rodriguez, Amanda Nannies - Housekeepers Rodriguez, Michelle Rogoff, Ashley Romans, WESTFIELD BabyNurses Needed she is taking four or five subjects, or Melanie Rome, Alexa Rothenberg, Anthony Live-in / -out - Full/Part-time at least five A’s and a maximum of Scalfaro, Jacob Schaffer, Nicholas Sebolao, Elm St. Professional Building Avika Shah, Evan Shlissel, Emily Skaar, Bryce 400 Sq. Ft. 2nd Fl, Parking, Solid References Required. one B. Honor roll distinction is earned by Smith, Shane Squier, Bartosz Stawicki, Nicole Available Immediately! CALL (732) 972-4090 Sultatos, Rory Szeto, Connor Thompson, James $800.00 per month www.absolutebestcare.com students getting no mark less than a B Tsipas, Gabrielle Vacca, Sebastian Valdes, (201) 891-1130 and at least three A’s. Georgeann Wallden, Terence White, Jessica EINSTEIN TUTORING Yorkovich, Kelly Yutz, Matthew Zawodniak, THE EAGLE HAS LANDED…As part of the ongoing McKinley school 100th Freshmen High Charles Zhou STORE OR OFFICE Mathematics tutoring offered by birthday celebration, artist Colin Coots, pictured at left, was invited to McKinley graduate of Princeton & Harvard. Elementary in Westfield to help guide the student body in creating a larger-than- Honor Roll WESTFIELD life eagle mascot. The Papier-mâché eagle, with a wingspan of more than seven Junior High Store or office in a strip of stores. Over 14 years experience Meghan Allen, Nicolette Ambrosio, Omar preparing students for SAT, feet, was constructed and painted in four days with direction from art teacher Amer, Lisa Awaitey, Elizabeth Baldwin, Fully remodled, Central Air, Dominika Blach, Dominique Bray, Emma Honor Roll GMAT, GRE, SAT II Math Levels Alison Hooper-Korkuch, right, PTO parent Wendy Connolly, center, as well as 700 sq/ft. Flexible terms. $1,500. additional assistance from each and every McKinley student in grades 1-5. Some Budiansky, Christopher Burke, Teresa Stephen Allen, Stephanie Baier, Stephanie Call Owner (908) 325-6077 1 & 2, SSAT and academic tutoring of the participating students, pictured left to right, are Max Martin, Miranda Cannone, Adam Carabba, Olivia Checchio, Baliko, Alecia Battle, Danielle Bernstein, Sa- including algebra, geometry, Landetta, Madelyn Jacobs, Sofia Nolde-Gonzalas, Phil Lizzo, Eric Miele and Jacqueline Cirincione, Isabel Crystal, Lindsay rah Canfield, Timothy Carroll, Sophie Chou, COMMERCIAL RENTAL trigonometry, precalculus & Maria Panarese. Curtis, Russell Davis, Jennifer Denman, Mar- Victoria Dalessandro, Vangelis Dimopoulos, probability. Will travel to your garet Diaz, John Dibattista, Louis Dodge, Lyndsey Douglas, Zachary Flanzman, Mel- OFFICE SUITE Alison Durant, Kori Fleischman, Katherine issa Goldberg, Samantha Goldner, Alexander Beautiful Georgetown style home. Please call: (917) 637-0438 Fletcher, Jillian Gardner, Noelle Giacona, Sara Graham, Noorene Helm, Samantha Henderson, Local Students to Celebrate Heiden, Ryan Henkels, Brenda Ho, Stephanie building, 2nd fl, 1040 sqft., ELDERLY CARE AVAILABLE Michael Henkels, Lauren Hirschhorn, Caitlin kitchenette, private bathroom, Holmes, Kristen Lee, Brigid McGovern, Hoynes-O’Connor, Jeffrey Kranz, Leigh European woman with 8 years Varshini Narayanan, David Pak, Cassandra Kwasny, Evan Levine, Alyson Linsenberg, plenty of parking on site. Garden State in Writing Contest Segulin, Abigail Slaugh, Nicholas Stawicki, Kimberly Many, Timothy Nering, Daniel Nizri, 203 South Ave., East, Westfield experience, responsible. Looking Cynthia Timko, Marissa Visci, Jaime Weisbrot, Adam Offitzer, Jason Pearl, Gina Pelosi, Kerry Call Jim Hely (908) 789-9000 for live-in, live-out, weekends, Emmett White, Keira Wiggins, Jing Jing Zheng Pierce, Robert Purdon, Lindsay Robinson, nights. References available. AREA – School registration for the Webquest challenge. Before Febru- Kelsey Rossi, Marissa Sacca, Stephen Scannell, APARTMENT FOR RENT Call (908) 494-7689 Celebrate NJ! Fourth grade writing ary 27, students must choose a topic, Imani Shabazz, Claire Shashaty, Mackenzie contest ends January 5. Local schools conduct research, and write an article Freshmen Honor Roll Sizemore, Victoria Spuler, Gregory Stein, WESTFIELD signed up to participate in the pro- Andrew Alonzo, Rachel Armus, Kelly Lauren Steinbeck, Aleksandra Szczuka, Tracy that informs, entertains and inspires Toffolo, Laura Toffolo, Devra Traiman, Ben- 2 Bedroom, 2 levels, lg master FREELANCERS WANTED gram include St. Michael School in other fourth grade students about the Ayers, William Babis, Gregory Baliko, BR. All new appl, skylights, C/A, Stephanie Beauvais, Elijahu Ben-Michael, jamin Ungar, David Van Wert, Emily Strong, detail-oriented writers Cranford, St Bartholomew Academy Garden State. Kelsey Boyea, Samuel Brown, Laura Cappelli, Weinstock hardwood fls. Parkg on premises. with professional demeanor in Scotch Plains, and Tamaques El- Celebrate NJ!, a non-profit organi- Daniel Carabba, Daniela Caro-Esposito, Walk to Train & Town. $1,495. needed to cover local ementary School, Washington El- zation located in Freehold, whose Zachary Carow, Emma Cavaliere, Jason Call Maria (908) 591-5165 Cepparulo, Krystel Charles, Clare Cohen, Junior Honor Roll government meetings. Must ementary School, Jefferson Elemen- mission is to promote and preserve Robert Colonna, Grant Crandall, Thomas tary School and Wilson Elementary Andrea Barone, Jordan Bayroff, Charles LOST EARRING be able to meet deadlines, the best of New Jersey, hopes stu- Cusmano, Jordan Dagostaro, Taylor Dashiell, Beelitz, Lauren Belfer, Steven Bello, Steven know how to write a lead, and School in Westfield. dents will also develop an increased Joseph De Santis, Francis Degnan, Rosalie Berkowitz, Marissa Berlant, Gary Binkiewicz, On December 26th, in front take an active interest in their Fourth grade “journalists” from appreciation for what makes New Depaola, Samantha Diaz, Maria Diwane, Taylor Biondi, Rachel Blom, Rebecca Brand, of First Baptist Church on Elm beats in order to develop news local schools will match their writing Jersey a great home state. The organi- Nicholas Donatelli, Casey Dugan, Ramona Amelia Brause, Morgan Burke, Michael Burke, Street in Westfield. Earring is Dunning, Destinee Edwards, Caitlin English, Daniel Campbell, Graceann Caramico, Lauren stories. Please email skills against thousands of other New zation has recently announced its larg- Jessica Esbrandt, Jaclyn Friedman, Elizabeth Casserly, Kaitlynn Colligan, Devon Daly, Jo- white gold with ‘diamond’ center. resume and clips to: Jersey students in a statewide est class of over 10,000 fourth grade Gallo, Craig Gorbunoff, Carly Grossman, seph D’Auria, Alexander Davis, Michael Large reward if found and students enrolled in this year’s inter- Domenic Gubernat, Alexandra Harmon, Kevin DelSordi, Michael Demmel, Brian Dempsey, [email protected] Hesson, Karina Homentowska, Matthew returned. Very sentimental value. active online program. Jack Diaz, Alan Dlugosz, Marina Dugan, Please call (908) 233-3101 Jegede, Ian Johnston, Kaitlin Kearney, Mel- Rebecca Dunn, Luke Durett, Christopher “Students learn about New Jersey issa Keiser, Sara Killeen, Ezra Klein, Joshua Fortunato, Robert Frazee, Christopher Free- NEIDE HOUSE CLEANING in fourth grade, and literacy skills are Knechtel, Anthony Krajcsik, Hanaa Lakhani, man, Kelly Gajdzisz, Katrina Gans, Jennifer PHOTOGRAPHY If you don’t have time to clean, a key component of state tests, so this Alyssa Laki, Stacy Leinfuss, Victoria Lesce, Geoghegan, Matthew Glassett, Carly Goldner, I will do it for you! online writing program is a natural Edward Lopez, Evan Lubranski, Daniel Lynch, Andrew Gorbunoff, Stephen Hansen, Sarah Event and family photographer to Michael Mannino, Bianca Marcazzo, Alex Hoffman, Alexandra Joy, Maxim Kachalov, keep your Soiree alive forever. Reliable, reasonable rates. fit,” said Executive Director Karen Markovits, Remy Marshall, James Marvosa, Brian Kahn, Sarah Kavity, Jennifer Good references. 5 years exp. Hatcher. “We’re excited that so many Kelsey Mattimore, Casey McBride, Jessica Kickenweitz, Amy Kocot, David Kreps, Agatha Professional references. Call McGovern, Daniel McMillan, Joseph Dave Samsky at (908) 693-0158 Call me! (973) 583-8997 or teachers have chosen to use the online Kuza, Samantha Mannino, Kyle Mattson, (973) 878-2181 Neide resources in the program to enhance McQuoid, Dylan Mruczinski, Claire Muirhead, William McColly, Delia McGee, Ryan Email: [email protected] Margaret O’Brien, Marisol Pacaja, Raushan McTernan, Frank Mellana, Todd Morling, their curriculum this year.” Palejwala, Emily Palmer, Dhruvi Patel, Daniel Marguerite Murad, Katarina Nier, Anthony Each student who writes and sub- Pesin, Melissa Quarto, Cassidy Reilly, Delaney Nival, Dominique Osterman, Nicole Ostrowski, mits an article as part of the statewide Reimers, Miriam Reiserova, Margot Rejaud, Renata Pacaja, Ryan Reeson, Alyssa Resnick, SP Athlete Prepares For EYE ON CULTURE…With colorful writing contest will earn a compli- Maria Paz Rivero, Carlie Roessle, Kathryn Dena Rice, Traci Rigano, Makeda Roberson, skeins of yarn and popsicle sticks, sev- Romagnano, Annabelle Rosen, Benjamin Ross, Jorge Rodriguez-Larrain, Lauren Rosenthal, enth graders from The Wardlaw- mentary baseball ticket to the Somerset Valerie Rovner, Michael Sabony, Justin Julia Ross, Carrie Salem, Eddie Sangern, Mat- Hartridge School in Edison focused Patriots game on June 2, and partici- Scholar, Kevin Scully, Andrew Skoog, Daniel thew Sawchuk, Jessica Schroder, Christopher Olympics World Games pate in a special pre-game parade for Slegowski, Allison Speck, Sheila Strong, Alex Shea, Theres Sigona, Christopher Smith, their creative and Spanish-speaking Suriano, Christine Szpond, Erica Tropp, Nicole skills, as well as their knowledge of students. A Celebrate NJ! awards event Vanessa Stanback, Thomas Strowe, Justin SCOTCH PLAINS — In two athletes and 85 coaches, plus man- Turso, Sarah Vanbuskirk, Alfred Voelker, Terry, Michael Valle, Brian Walsh, Kevin months, Patricia Michaels, 33, of agement team members, training Mexican culture, while crafting God’s is being planned to recognize local Sarah Weber, Allison Whitehouse, Andrew Welch, Erica Wise, Shawn Zambri, Allison Scotch Plains will make the trip to camp was the first official time many Eyes on December 18 with Yolanda students whose articles are selected as Wilson, Alexandra Zaller Zimmermann Reyes of South Plainfield, Upper School “The Best of the Best” from the thou- Idaho for the 2009 Special Olympics of the athletes met their World Games Spanish teacher, and Sofia Tamayo of World Winter Games. coach and other athletes from all sands submitted. Judging will be com- Sophomore Metuchen, Middle School Spanish/ pleted by March 15. Senior High Honor Roll First, she headed to Copper Moun- over the nation who will join them Prima Lingua teacher. Pictured above, Jennie Altman, Anjli Bansal, Stephanie tain, Colo., for a five-day training on their trip to the World Games. Douglas Cerminaro and Matthew Celebrate NJ! will also produce an High Honor Roll Bistis, Caitlin Campbell, Katherine Celardo, camp that began on December 3. The camp offered a variety of Nader of Scotch Plains work on their online newspaper showcasing the stu- Brie Adamczyk, Laura Arasin, Julia Babis, Jenna Cepparulo, Elizabeth Chen, Kelly Ms. Michaels, a Special Olympics coaches meetings and sport-specific God’s Eyes with a little help from Mrs. dents’ writing, available on their Edilin Borbon, Erin Brown, Laura Bruce, Cianciotta, Gillian Clark, Katherine New Jersey athlete for more than 20 training in alpine skiing, cross-coun- Tamayo. Douglas is the son of Douglas website, CelebrateNJ.org. Lauren Buckley, Santino Butler, Joanna Cornacchia, Thomas Cristiani, Lauren Cerminaro, Jr. and Christine Carroll, Marianna Caruso-Gilbert, Evan Cole, D’aloisio, Michelle Desantis, Rebecca Dorilus, years, loves being on the computer. try skiing, floor hockey, figure skat- To register, teachers may contact Hayley Cornwell, Amanda Ho, Emily Diana Ferrante, Michael Ferrara, David Gigiel, She also competed in the 1995 World ing, snowboarding snowshoe racing Cerminaro. Matthew is the son of Tony Karen Hatcher at (732) 333-0462, Horowitz, Patrick Kelly, Emma Kelly, Steven Naomi Goldstein, Brian Jascur, Kristina Summer Games in New Haven, Conn. and speed skating. Nader and Liliane Nader. before January 5. Klee, Alison Koransky, Kenneth Lee, Conor Kalkstein, Rebecca Kaplan, Tiffany Kirkland, Lockier, Hannah Markey, Emily Nagourney, Kapri Kreps, Yan Li, Thomas Loop, Daniel She also competes in Special Athletes and coaches participated Michael Napolitano, Jonah Offitzer, Michael Lubranski, Valerie Luby, Kayla Mcalindin, Olympics Bowling. Ms. Michaels in team-building activities. During Parada, Benjamin Parisi, Alexander Parker, Andrew Pansulla, Petros Petridis, Austin will compete in Alpine Skiing dur- camp, athletes from Team USA were Michael Pesin, Christina Reiman, Michael Pfundheller, Mary Poillon, Kaitlin Rau, Charles ing the 2009 Special Olympics World fitted for their uniforms and had sport- Rizzo, Carl Rosen, Eve Rosenheck, Danielle Ringel, Philip Rivera, Gisella Rodriguez- Schweizer, Jason Shaub, Sarah-Elisabeth Stein, Larrain, Christine Ruggieri, Jessica Slegowski, Winter Games in February. specific photos taken. Elizabeth Stranzenbach, James Sweeney, Rose Kevin Spaeth, Marissa Squeri, Martin Sweeney, One other local athlete represent- This is the ninth Special Olympics Thompson, Andrew Vaslas, Lauren Williams, Mangesh Tamhankar, Linda Timko, Ulysses ing Team USA-New Jersey is World Winter Games, uniting nearly Caresse Yan, Sharon Yutz Velasquez, Ashley Voysest, Eric Williams, Suzanne Comi, 31, of Berkeley 3,000 athletes from 100 countries for Chang Yaramothu, Rachel Young Heights. competition from Saturday, February Sophomore Honor Roll For Team USA, consisting of 355 7 through 13, 2009. Betsy Appel, Ellesse Bartosik, Lauren Senior Honor Roll Berk, Elle Bernardo, Micaela Bernardo, Sam Alison Acevedo, Timothy Aguilar, Kristen Bhakuni, Jerry Bi, Celeste Bilkerdyk, Timothy Armstrong, Kerilyn Bartley, Alana Batts, Lissy Garwood’s Lincoln School Bonacum, Joshua Brooks, Cassie Caminiti, Benavides, Kristyn Berger, Brian Bonacum, Charles Centinaro, Michael Chaia, Theresa Kyle Brennan, Andrew Brockel, Michael Chrystal, Jennifer Cua, Meghan Cunningham, Bumiller, Christina Camarda, Christina Lane Darwin, Desli Demarsico, Stefanie Capece, Laura Capoccia, Adam Clark, Kathryn Reveals Honor Roll Devizio, Jessica DiGiacomo, Rebecca Cockrell, Sean Collins-Cruz, Laura Degnan, GARWOOD – Garwood’s Lincoln Sara Brinkerhoff, Kelsey Durkin, DiGiacomo, Madeline Dillon, Nicolas Joseph Del Prete, Kaitlyn Denker, Antonio School announced its first marking Stephen Eid, Rachel Galatioto, Sarah DiProspero, Patrick Dougher, Sarah Drum, Dinizo, John Domanski, Tara Dorilus, Osazenoriuwa Ebose, Marc Henry Estriplet, Alexander Ebeling, Josef Ellis, Olivia period honor roll and honor society. E. Kramer, Orest Kulchytsky, Chris- Jalynn Farmer, Tessa Felegy, Frederick Feller, Francavilla, Alexandra Friedman, Nathan The honor roll appears above the tine Lodato, Diana Marianovsky, Hayley Geller, Christopher Gilman, Richard Ghabour, Amanda Gianni, Daniel Gilman, honor society. Lindsey O’Donnell, Victoria Gorski, Jesse Haack, Elena Haggan, Ryan Danielle Giordanella, Erica Goldberg, Gabriela Petruzelli, Luke Taylor, Jessica Weisser Haggerty, Camille Handy, Zachary Harper, Guzzo, Alison Haggan, Alexander Hahn, HonorRoll Grade 5 DEEP-SEA DIVING…The Adventure Aquarium in Camden treated members of Victoria Ingato, Will Kempner, Matthew Jacqueline Halpern, Timothy Hauser, Eric Cailey Adamson, Sean Baron, Luis Grade 8 Cranford High School’s Outdoor Education Club, advised by club leader and Kersey, Molly Kildow, Ezra Klemow, Evelyn Heinz, Anthony Ingato, Alexus Jegede, Emily business teacher Richard Goldstein, far left, to a visit in November to learn more Klotz, Megan Koederitz, Rebecca Kreyer, Ryan Katz, Jeremy Kaufman, Allison Killeen, Bergin, Joseph Brecht, Jacqueline Ryan Baron, Samantha Brown, Laguna, Jillian Leahy, James Leitner, Katie Courtney Kolb, Paul Koprowski, Mark about undersea life. The donation of passes was the aquarium’s third to the Levitt, Christina Lewis, Eric Leyden, Haley Koransky, Jonathan Kosenick, Dana Krajcsik, DeFilippo, Karina Joyner, Kimberly Vianca Colon, Marcella DePaola, district in the past year under its “Gift Cards and Goods Program,” managed by Knowles, Nathan Kramer, Kayla Salvatore Florio, Jason Hay, Veronica Raychel Kruper, Erika Kuck, Evan Lake, Aysha grants manager Stephen Izzo, through which gift cards, gift certificates and Lakhani, Allison Lasher, Uikyu Lee, Thomas McMillan, Molly Mehalick, Matatov, Joseph McMahon, Tianna donated goods support curricular and extracurricular programs and clubs. Sly Fox Auditions Take Leong, Roger Liu, Sean Lockier, Jessica Leonardo A. Ramos, Andrew Resetar, Miles, Camellia Mooney, Alice Narang, Loshiavo, Genevieve Lubas, Christine Amanda Rojas, Zachary Seaman, Thomas Priolo, Jordan Smith, Ryan Place Next Week Maclean, Jenna McGarry, Christopher Colleen Staba, Angelo Villaraut, Tombs, Emily Torres, Christian Torres AREA – Auditions for Stony Hill McManus, Matthew McQuoid, Liana Messina, Victoria Wagner Honor Society Grade 5 Westfield BOE to Hold Players’ production of Sly Fox by Daniel Michalak, Jonathan Miklas, Kaitlyn Larry Gelbart will be held at the Mills, Jessica Mindo, Kayla Molnar, Kelly Grade 6 Michael Banek, Emma Neuberger, Monroy, Wesley Morrison, Darwin K. Nitro, Gabriella Sluka, Michael Woitkowski Oakes Center, located at 120 Mor- Anne Marie Noronha, Brian Northrup, Erin Mark Barranger, Michael Basso, Grade 6 Next Meeting at Edison ris Avenue, at the corner of Russell O’Brien, Anne O’Halloran, Kevon Paynter, Jake Burkert, Harry Cancel, Daniel Monica Archer, Meagan Beriont, Place, in Summit on Thursday, Tyler Pfundheller, Alexandria Pisauro, Kathryn Courtney, Sara Diwane, Anne Marie WESTFIELD – The next meeting change and should be mindful of Powell, Vincent Puleo, Ryan Rappa, Thomas Alyssa Beyer, Dayna Gallucci, of the Westfield Board of Education safety boundaries and incremental January 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. and Reade, Matthew Ritsko, Daniel Rodriguez, Figiel-Dickerson, Ricardo Hidalgo, Katerina Hermanova, Brian Maher Sunday, January 11, from 2 to 4 Philip Rosenkrantz, Davina Roshansky, Salma Mahmoud, Amanda Meyers, will be held on Tuesday, January 13, costs of transportation and staffing.” Grade 7 at 8 p.m. in the auditorium of Edison On January 27, the board will vote p.m. Michael Roth, Golan Rozenberg, Derek Sands, Asimakis Pagratis, Vaness Rosky, Sara Law, Nicole Resetar The production is scheduled for Samantha Schaffer, Lisa Schardien, Elizabeth Zachary Simanski, Christina M. Intermediate School. on the recommendation presented to Schreiber, Alessandra Scott, Joseph Sebolao, Grade 8 The business agenda will include a them on January 13. the end of March. Several men’s Kimberly Shelus, Alexis Sorace, Christian Tempio, Scott Tombs, Salvatore Mrlee Araujo, Sarah Beriont, Ryan parts, as well as four women’s roles Speck, Paul Spicer, Samuel Stamler, Andrew Trapani, Caitlin Twaddle recommendation from the Superin- A complete agenda of the January Brinkerhoff, Brendan Bucciarelli, tendent of Schools, Margaret Dolan, 13 meeting will be available on the are available. For more information, Steffen, Gert Stepan, Henna Tailor, Brittney call (908) 464-6879. Veeck, Erick Walker, Corinne Walker, Elise Grade 7 Kristina Cibikova, Anna DiGiacomo, on redistricting students at the inter- district’s website and in the board Whitehouse, Jennifer Yang, Aaron Zhao Samuel Abbaticola, Devin Araujo, Joseph Mondi, Kyle Pender mediate-school level to better bal- secretary’s office at 302 Elm Street ance class sizes at Edison and on Friday, January 9. Roosevelt Intermediate Schools. All board meetings are taped and CAS of New Jersey Ms. Dolan has met with the board’s televised on Blue Devils TV36 on Long Range Planning Committee for Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m. and months, considering many different 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at To Perform Solomon solutions to an enrollment issue that 10 a.m. was initially addressed in 2006 by the WESTFIELD – The Choral Art Act I, marital bliss; in Act II, maternal love; and in Act III, platonic admira- Citizens Advisory Committee on SP’s Ricca Makes Society of New Jersey will perform Enrollment (CACE). George Friederich Handel’s Solomon tion. In addition, Handel touches upon Seton Hall Dean’s List religious orthodoxy, justice with wis- The CACE’s recommendation, fol- on Saturday, January 17, at 8 p.m. at lowed by the district’s attempts at SCOTCH PLAINS – Robert and Temple Emanu-El, located at 756 East dom and mercy, noble buildings, a smiling countryside and the un-envi- attracting students from Roosevelt to Lorraine Ricca of Scotch Plains an- Broad Street in Westfield. Edison through voluntary busing and nounced that their daughter, Stephanie Solomon was composed between ous admiration of neighboring states. James Little, musical director of the creation of a Magnet program, Ricca, has been named to the dean’s May 5 and June 13, 1748, and was was met with insufficient response list at Seton Hall University for the first performed at Covent Garden on the society, will conduct the evening’s performance which features the Cho- from families. fall semester. March 17, 1749. Many have named Beth Cassie, chair of the board’s Stephanie is studying Early Child- Solomon the most lavish of all of ral Art Society Orchestra as well as soloists Joseph Hill, alto, as Solomon; Long Range Planning Committee, hood Education, Elementary Educa- Handel’s oratorios. It includes a larger said that Ms. Dolan’s new recom- tion, Special Education and Environ- orchestra than most and choral music Stephen Sands, tenor, as Zadok; Andi Campbell, soprano, as the Queen, mendation should, “be sustainable mental Studies at Seton Hall. She is a written in his best ceremonial style. for three to five years, should con- 2006 graduate of Scotch Plains- The chorus represents the builders and Mark Watson, baritone, a Levite. HELPING THE DEAF COMMUNITY…Westfield resident Jennifer Colamedici sider social consequences of the Fanwood High School. was the parent speaker at Summit Speech School’s 40th Anniversary Celebration and citizens of Solomon’s Golden Tickets, available at the door, are in October at Baltusrol Golf Club. Summit Speech School of New Providence City. The plot is based on II $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and teaches children who are deaf and hard of hearing to listen and talk. Pictured, Chronicles, with the judgment being students. For additional information, See it all on the web in color . . . from left to right, are Jennifer Colamedici, parent of an alumnus, and Samantha taken from I Kings. call (908) 654-5737 or visit Altieri, Westfield resident, Parent Association president and parent of two Three kinds of love are depicted: in thechoralartsocietyofnj.org. www.goleader.com Summit Speech School students. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, January 1, 2009 Page 13 A&E Year in Review To ‘Bee’ or Not to ‘Bee,’ Part 2 of 2 June – Dec. That is Exhibit’s Question By MARYLOU MORANO Marybeth Rothman, Jeff Schaller, Ryan Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times namesake’s tomb is buried below its altar. Schroeder and Mike Teters. Conductor Candace Wicke was at the RAHWAY – Encaustic painting is The technique of encaustic painting helm, leading the some-50-person choir to one of the earliest art forms. involves brushing layers of beeswax push on after almost five hours of rehearing First demonstrated by ancient Greek onto an absorbent surface. on an early November morning. and Egyptian artists, it uses molten, The layers are then fused with a heat “Come on, I don’t care if you’re tired,” pigmented beeswax to emphasize color source, such as a heat gun. she exclaimed, her baton punctuating her and texture. The encaustics in Ms. Brody’s sentiment to pick up their voices. “Bee-ing,” an exhibit highlighting “Deconstruct” series are a come-hither Ms. Wicke, a conductor-in-residence at this ancient form of painting, was re- puzzle that she invites her viewers to Carnegie Hall, was asked to conduct at the International Music Festival happening in cently on exhibit at the Arts Guild of solve. Rome through the end of November. COMPLIMENTS TO THE Rahway. What at first appears to be jumble of So, the Westfield resident put together a CHEF...The Cranford chapter of Les The encaustic paintings of 13 artists, group of about 200 singers from across the Marmitons hosted the club’s 2008 in- among them Francesca Azzara of country, some 50 of which are from ternational meeting in early June, to Westfield, were part of the exhibit. Westfield, Summit, New Providence and celebrate the club’s motto – “friend- Other artists participating included Berkeley Heights, for her Arts Symphonic ship through gastronomie.” The event, Suzanne Kammin Baron, Mona Brody, Chorus and Orchestra. held in Summit, drew members from Elaine Chong, Kevin Frank, Leah Representing three generations, Janet as far as Calgary. Above, Cranford MacDonald, Wayne Montecalvo, Karen Whitman of Summit, the city’s former chapter member Garr Stephenson con- Nielsen-Fried, Lisa Pressman, mayor, together with her two daughters-in- ducts a toast. laws and two 13-year-old granddaughters, Courtesy of Shelley Roberts, director of press relations, NJPAC one set from Chatham and one set from POPCORN™ THE CATS PAJAMAS...Erica Cenci of Westfield plays the role of Rumpleteazer, Summit, will sing in the performance. left, in Cats. “It’s going to be such a hoot. We are very lucky. It’s a great, great thing,” said Ms. On the controversial side, in tongue- which contains lyrical expressions of Whitman. Slumdog Millionaire: in-cheek fashion, frontman Art Alexakis Shakespearean themes of love and the ~ Christina M. Hinke dedicated two of the band’s past singles, creative imagination. Valuable Viewing “You Make Me Feel Like a...” and “Volvo- ~ Susan Myrill Dougherty Francesca Azzara’s “Open Window” Driving Soccer Mom,” to Republican WF Resident Stars Presidential and Vice Presidential nomi- One Popcorn, Poor • Two Popcorns, Fair • Three Popcorns, Good • Four Popcorns, Excellent shapes is actually a call to introspection nees John McCain and Sarah Palin, re- Former Westfielder In Tour of Cats By MICHAEL S. GOLDBERGER lous minds won’t be compelled to and self–reflection. spectively. Directs ‘Simpsons’ Show WESTFIELD –Actress/singer/dancer 3 and 1/2 popcorns compassionately segue to the issue “The result is a convergence of ob- He also used colorful and inappropri- Erica Cenci, a 2002 Westfield High School The depths of poverty depicted in WESTFIELD — This year’s “Simpsons’ of human rights. The good in you servation, direct experience and the ate language at points, drawing the ire of (WHS) graduate, visited her home state in Slumdog Millionaire, so important knows that a coin in a canister out- expressive power of the materials,” she Union County GOP Chairman Phil Morin. Treehouse of Horror” was directed by a November while performing at New Jersey to this otherwise wacky, quixotic Speaking to The Star-Ledger, Mr. 1983 Westfield High School graduate. side the supermarket just isn’t explained. Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in New- and sociologically astute film, grow enough. But what to do, what to do? Ms. Chong’s ritual of keeping a daily Morin said, “The county and the corpo- Bob Anderson, 43, son of Brightwood ark. rate sponsors should be embarrassed by Avenue resident Joan Anderson, has worked beleaguering. Certainly there are Such is the frustrating quandary that log is expressed in the creation of an Ms. Cenci is cast in the role of the playful circumstances and places worse than the outrageous behavior of some of the on “The Simpsons” since show nine of its Rumpleteazer in a North American touring comes of powerful muckraking. encaustic that represents “visual calen- bands, especially Everclear.” second season in 1990 and made his direct- company production of Andrew Lloyd those suffered by our title charac- Thus, although knowing it can dars of events past and present.” On a non-political note, Alexakis played ing debut with “Bart’s Inner Child” three Webber’s acclaimed 1981 musical Cats. ter, Jamal Malik (Dev Patel). But only be a token victory, the hope One example is her oil, charcoal and a solo acoustic version of Van Morrison’s years later. Ms. Cenci said she’s having great fun just an iota more squalor and we’d that Jamal can answer his way out masonite entitled “Turning the Page.” “Brown-Eyed Girl,” which he dedicated As a youngster his grandmother, Lena with the role of one of the mischievous be too distracted to follow the story. Steckler, a fine artist who lived in York, of the centuries of absolute despair “When looking back into the expired to his mother, who passed away from Jellicle Cats in the show, which features the Welcome to the slums of Mumbai, grows personal. He becomes a sym- date books, I find spontaneous injec- cancer two years ago. Pennsylvania, introduced Mr. Anderson to cast in costume and full makeup as felines. India. When wishing to impress just ~ Martin Sweeney bol for everyone who ever suffered tions that I draw from,” she said. “I’m Rumpleteazer, one of the kittens,” how ghastly life is in this ghetto, at the hands of a civilization that The encaustics produced by Mr. Westfield resident Anderson she explained, “and have a fun song with director Danny Boyle does an aerial Mongojerrie that tells of their lives where didn’t think to put the needs of its Teters, a resident of Plainfield, are Havens Fills Crossroads Directs “Treehouse of Horror” pan across the miles of corrugated masses first. Moving to the edge of muted; yet instead of being soft, they ~images courtesy of Mr. Anderson they steal things together!” With Sounds of Love Her’s may look like a glamorous job to roofs sheltering the uncountable, our seats, we root. Jamal resumes are punctuated with sharp angles, as in the outside world, yet she confided that it’s anonymous throngs. We figure it’s his narrative. “Babel’s Circuit” and the rounded full- GARWOOD — In late September, a demanding one. the incentive that’s caused Jamal to And whether it’s the 18-year-old’s ness as seen in “Dark Matter” and Crossroads of Garwood was graced by the “I don’t know if I’ll have the energy to do pin his hopes on India’s version of presence of folk legend Richie Havens, stubbornness, his conviction or the “Chaos Theory.” this (touring) in 10 years, but I do see myself “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” inviting fancifulness of it all, with “I love [the encaustic] medium be- who performed to a crowd that gave him in the performing arena in some capacity,” enough love to make him float to the moon. But maybe we’re wrong. The each chronicling his inquirer be- cause of its versatility,” he explained. she said of her future. chronology is purposely confusing. comes less disbelieving if not sym- “The inherent qualities of encaustic Havens was at the Crossroads (which ~ Susan Myrill Dougherty he called his “second home”) to promote When first we meet the young man pathetic. Meanwhile, we’re won- partner well with my own aesthetic his new album, “Nobody Left to Crown,” he’s being brutally interrogated. dering just how he did on the show sense, which grapples with definition, a work that Havens himself said dwells on December How, agonizes the police inspector, and why he was arrested? We seek meaning and symbolism.” “questions within ourselves that need to can such a ‘slumdog’ have known clues among the studio set, the po- Ms. Azzara’s encaustics from her be answered.” formal art. Devlins’ Christmas so many answers on the aforemen- lice station and Jamal’s reflections. “Windows and Whispers” series beg Havens also discussed how some of “She always had me playing with some- tioned game show? He must be a Written like a mystery, it’s hinted the viewer to “question the assorted those questions are for the youth of the thing, whether it was playing with clay or Comes to Life on ABC cheat. He works at a telemarketing country, and how those questions relate sketching; it came out of that, and I stuck the quiz show host, a rather full of relationships we encounter as we jour- to the political process. with it,” said Mr. Anderson, who would MOUNTAINSIDE — The newest ani- company, and only as a gofer at himself wheeler-dealer expertly ney through life.” “There’s really a bum rap with voting,” later receive his animation training under mated Christmas tale to air on ABC Family that. played by Anil Kapoor, may be pull- As seen in past exhibits, Ms. Azzara’s Havens said, speaking in a warm, sage- the wing of Wilt Neil, the creator of “Howdy Channel’s “25 Days of Christmas” came In his defense, the obdurate lad ing some strings. True or not, it’s work focuses on the home. like voice that instantly draws in every- Doody” and an artist for Disney, at The Joe straight from the pages of the beloved “Cran- uses the occasion to detail just how berry Christmas” children’s book by the obvious Mr. Kapoor will soon be “The windows are a metaphor for the one around him. “Nobody wants to vote, Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art he came to know what he knows. shuttling between Bollywood and heart, the mind and the human spirit,” because they don’t want to be associated in Dover. late Wende and Harry Devlin, who resided in Mountainside. What follows is an autobiography Hollywood. Also distinguishing she explained. with a party.” As one of the many directors working for that plays like a scavenger hunt of himself, although in a lesser role, is The AGR is located at 1670 Irving “But now, the youth are really working the show, he is in charge of creating a The half-hour special featured two new songs by Barry Manilow and a screenplay life’s twists, fates and ironies. Ini- Irrfan Khan as the police inspector. Street in Rahway. to get things done because they’ve real- storyboard of the visuals based on a script, tially intricate but soon engrossing, ized that they can and that they have to. a process that takes about 16 to 20 weeks. by the former head of Marvel Productions, Giving proper credit to those who For information about upcoming It’s happened for both of the candidates, Mr. Anderson also has a hand in drawing Rick Ungar. the story begins by explaining why play Jamal and Latika is akin to exhibits, contact them at (732) 381- and it’s because the youth are united in up new characters. He is responsible for For the Devlin family, seeing a “Cran- the 6-year-old Jamal and his brother recognizing an ensemble perfor- 7511 or online at rahwayartsguild.org. making changes,” Havens continued. designing the round-bodied boy with spec- berry” story come to life on the screen was took off on their own. mance. There are six players in to- “Now they can actually point and show tacles, Ham, from “Bart’s Comet” episode a long time coming. Since the Cranberryport Salim, two years his senior, is tal, all worthy of mention. While Choir Offers to Dispose people the lies.” and, most recently, has worked with design- series was first published in the 1970s, the outwardly the tougher of the two. Devlins searched out Ocean Spray to col- Dev Patel as the grown Jamal will Much of this sentiment comes through ers to create Joey Greco, the host of the Jamal seems more the romantic. deservedly garner the awards, also Of Christmas Trees in the album’s title track. It muses on reality show “Cheaters.” laborate on an animated show but to no avail. Though a study of their relationship superb are Ayush Mahesh Khedekar WESTFIELD – The Westfield High As it turns out, last year, the author’s and is accomplished by film’s end, their as the youngest Jamal and Tanay School Concert Choir is again offer- illustrator’s children received a message first crucial disagreement comes Chheda as middle Jamal. ing to help area residents dispose of from the cranberry juice maker’s advertis- with the introduction on a rainy Pretty Freida Pinto is touching as their Christmas trees in exchange for ing agency, Arnold, inquiring about the night of fellow waif Latika. Invit- 18-year-old Latika and Tanvi a $10 donation to be used for vocal same idea. ing her to share their lean-to, Jamal Ganesh Lonkar is solid as middle music scholarships. Anyone inter- “We were in negotiations with another fantasizes that they are the three Latika. But winsome little Rubiana ested in having their tree picked up is deal. We had to weigh the two,” said Wende Musketeers. Devlin Gates, daughter of the book cre- Ali is a complete heartbreak as the asked to e-mail William Mathews, ators. “Arnold had such integrity to be Coincidentally, one of the quiz youngest Latika. Yes, we know all choral director, at faithful to our parents’ work and the book show questions asks the name of a about stage mothers, agents and the [email protected], and they created.” Musketeer. Hearing this opening system. Still, one can’t help but be it will be relayed to the choir officers. “It’s a shame they are not alive to see chapter, the impatient inquisitor is- awed by how they get little kids to Individuals are asked to include this,” said Ms. Gates. “They would be so sues a disbelieving ho-hum. But as act so superbly. their name, address and telephone thrilled.” even torture hasn’t fleshed out any This works to make Latika and number. This year’s tree pickup will ~ Christina M. Hinke more believable information, the Jamal’s saga especially affecting. be one day only – Saturday, January policeman allows the next flash- Unlike the horror of slice-and-dice 10, 2009. The deadline to make ar- Broadway Star Ragusa back. Here, taking a Dickensian flicks, you can’t find solace in the rangements is noontime, Friday, Janu- course, the lil Musketeers fall in fact that “It’s only a movie.” There’s ary 9. Displays Hats in WF with bad company. no doubt of the awful reality it mir- WESTFIELD —Michele Ragusa, cur- The slaver that captures and trains rors. That it engenders such outrage Watchung Arts Center rently starring in The New Mel Brooks children to be beggars makes Fagin while playing to our better rather Musical: Young Frankenstein at the Hilton seem like Mary Poppins. The hor- than lesser instincts makes Slumdog Presents Red Molly Theater, when not on stage, knits the time rible divulgences are among the Millionaire an enriching experience. WATCHUNG – The Watchung Arts away by fashioning felted wool hats. film’s more disturbing sequences. * * * Center continues the third season of its Her creations have become so popular While director Boyle, who did award-winning concert series, “Power- that, last month, local merchant Ed Slumdog Millionaire, rated R, is Eric Nierstedt for The Westfield Leader and The Times Trainspotting (1996), is no stranger a Fox Searchlight Pictures release ful Women of Song,” by presenting the SECOND HOME...Richie Havens performs his folk songs at Crossroads of Menapace decided to sell them at his Farm- dynamic acoustic trio Red Molly on Garwood last month to promote his new album, “Nobody Left to Crown.” house Store, where he hosted a meet and to the seamy side of life, this ratch- directed by Danny Boyle (co-direc- greet with Ms. Ragusa. ets up man’s inhumanity to man tor, Loveleen Tandan: India) and Saturday, January 10, at the Watchung freedom, with the lyric “we’ve got to He said the cut-out-like Simpsons “look Mr. Menapace recalled how impressed with a poignant vengeance. stars Dev Patel, Freida Pinto and Arts Center at 18 Stirling Road. amend,” and the telling line, “What if simple to draw, buts it’s elusive. Their he was upon first glimpse of one of Ms. Witnessing Jamal, Salim and Doors will open at 7:30 p.m., and the politicians were all good guys/Oh Lord simplicity is pretty complex.” Anil Kapoor. Running time: 120 Ragusa’s hats during a dinner party she Latika’s odyssey, only the most cal- minutes. concert begins at 8 p.m. Admission is don’t we wish they were?” This year’s “Treehouse” episode incor- hosted with her husband, Tom Richter, “I actually wrote that song back in the porated a take on Charlie Brown’s “It’s the $21 online and $22 at the door. also an actor, at their Plainfield home. Philadelphia-based singer/ ’70’s,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve never Great Pumpkin,” a parody of The Trans- A former performer himself who has See it all on the web in color . . . been a prolific songwriter, [but] I find formers and a spoof on advertising TV songwriter Carsie Blanton will open danced with the California Ballet, Mr. www.goleader.com the show. what I can.” show “Mad Men,” with an opening se- Menapace said he chose the store’s ~ Eric Nierstedt quence surrounding an Obama-McCain Westfield location because he thought its voting switcheroo. consumers would have the sophistication October ~ Christina M. Hinke to appreciate the Farmhouse’s artisan- crafted wares. November “This is a great town,” he said. “There’s WCP Presents Bard nothing like it...and people have so com- pletely embraced it.” ‘Comedy Night’ Local Residents Sing Ms. Ragusa said she first began creat- WESTFIELD –Westfield Community ing hats backstage while performing in Players’ production of William In St. Peter’s Basilica She Loves Me at Paper Mill Playhouse in Since 1934 Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s WESTFIELD — From the parking lot of Millburn a few years ago. Dream reminds us, “The course of love the Central Presbyterian Church in Sum- “I saw one of the dressers was doing Box Office: 908.232.1221 opens 1 week before show never did run smooth.” mit, sounds of a choir pierced a ray of felting for a great hobo bag,” Ms. Ragusa As one of the bard’s early comedies, warmth through a grey, wet day in early said. “I’d always enjoyed knitting…so Reserved Seating Matinee at 3PM Evenings at 8PM Midsummer is a convoluted tale that in- November. my husband bought me a felting book, tertwines two sets of couples that are in This music came from the mouths of a and it had great little hats in it.” love, but not always with each other. choral group rehearsing for its grand perfor- Ms. Ragusa signs and numbers each “Death of a Salesman” Set during ancient Greek times, the mance inside the gilded walls of the Ba- Give the gift of Live one-of-a-kind design, which takes her A Drama by play features Hermia and Lysander, and silica di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola in Rome’s approximately three to four performances Theater this Holiday Helena and Demetrius, who fall in and Vatican City, which would come later in the to craft backstage. Arthur Miller out of love. When Hermia’s father tries to month. “Each hat also has my own specific force her to marry someone other than the The afternoon prior to the Vatican City choice of detailing with antique buttons Season, with three great M man she adores, sparks of rebellion fly. experience, they performed a Mass at St. or crystals or pearls,” she said. Jan 10, *16, 17, 18, 23, 24 The couples’ fates become even more Peter’s Basilica, where it is believed its ~ Christie Storms shows to choose from ! entangled when they escape through an Single Tickets $15 enchanted forest to find themselves in the middle of magical mischievous doings. “Fools” “Little Mary Sunshine” The Athenian woods are the residence of King Oberon and Queen Titania. An A Comedy by Neil Simon Book, music & lyrics by Rick Besoyan impish character named Robin Goodfellow, but called Puck, casts spells Mar 7, *13, 14, 20, 21 May 2, *8, 9, *15, 16, 29, 30 as she sprinkles her enchantments. The “play-within-a-play,” a device that Shakespeare uses often, is loosely based Single Tickets $15 Single Tickets $20 on the myth of Pyramus and Thisbe. When * Benefit Performance the would-be actors finally get to perform Call 908.232.9568 For membership & group sales tickets from sponsoring org. their production, silliness ensues. M Director Naomi Yablonsky and Assis- Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Matinee 3PM tant Director Jerry Yablonsky have gath- Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, through All dates & shows ered a cast of merry players for this play, a grant administered by the Union County office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs subject to change Page 14 Thursday, January 1, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

Christina M. Hinke for The Westfield Leader and The Times I’VE GOT RHYTHM. I’VE GOT MUSIC...In Plainfield, Rhonda Thomas, a background singer for Isaac Hayes, belts out a tune during Union County’s Rhythm & Blues by the Brook concert, held in June. The event proved to be one of Hayes’ Martin Sweeney for The Westfield Leader and The Times last; sadly, the hall-of-fame musician passed away in 2008. WORK OF ART...Art Alexakis strums and sings along with bandmates of Everclear at MusicFest 2008, held in September. The Portland, Ore., rockers headlined the event, which ended up being rained out on Saturday evening.

Hendrix – dies at 27, and Fonda’s charac- Westfield and now of New Hope, Pa., Evremonde, evil personified, represents ter is partly responsible for his death. was elected secretary of the WAA. the worst of the aristocracy during the French “I’m kind of the hinge from the past to Anthony Riccio is serving as acting Revolution. the present, which is cool,” Fonda told treasurer until a new treasurer is nomi- Despite portraying a despicable charac- The Westfield Leader and The Scotch nated and elected. ter, Mr. Minski, extremely affable in real- Plains-Fanwood Times. “I am very optimistic about the future life, invited Union County residents to meet “I drive the RV holding all the young viability of the WAA,” said Mr. Deroo. him after performances at the stage door to people while they write the songs for the “It is our intent to present programs that say hello. A&E Year in Review third album of the Lost Souls.” will not only be of interest to the member- He said audiences usually hate his char- Filming in Westfield was a pleasure for ship of the WAA but will also have much acter but fall in love with the lyrics and Fonda. “The atmosphere is just really broader appeal to the community at large.” music, written by Jill Santoriello. great here,” he says. “It’s not like L.A., Ms. Zietchick is similarly encouraged “If you are a human being, you’ll be Part 2 of 2 June – Dec. where there’s a lot of big-city pressure.” about the organization’s upcoming year. moved by this story,” he said. Update: The film is currently in post- for the iconic voice he supplied to “South ters from the metal barricade. production, and no official release dates Marylou Morano for The Westfield Leader and The Times June Park” character Chef, passed in August. After his third song, the crowd was have been announced. 2009 is targeted, Before letting go of the legend, local chanting for him to play the “Theme from however. fans had the opportunity to catch him one Shaft,” the song that earned Mr. Hayes an ~Katie Rogers Hayes Appears in last time in Union County. His bass, bour- Oscar award. The crowd had to wait it bon-like voice was still intoxicating many out. Plainfield Before Death of his longtime fans at Union County’s “It’s too soon,” replied Mr. Hayes. He July PLAINFIELD — In 2008, fans of all “Rhythm & Blues by the Brook” free tapped his keyboards while perched atop ages had to say goodbye to one of music’s concert in Plainfield’s Cedar Brook Park. a stool alongside his band mates, includ- visionaries. Isaac Hayes, known to older When the clock neared the time for his ing a frontline of accompanying Symphony Draws generations as the godfather of the R&B introduction on stage, crowds moved their keyboardists. Large Crowd in Park movement and to younger generations chairs closer to the stage, some millime- The crowd was singing along, dancing or, when it was just too hot in the 90-plus MOUNTAINSIDE – On a picturesque degree heat, people were tapping their summer night at Echo Lake Park, classics feet in their chairs. from Key and Sousa lilted through the air. As Plainfield Mayor Sharon Robinson- Fans, new and old, of all ages, turned out Briggs said, while on stage speaking to July 2 to hear what promised to be a stun- the audience, the R&B festival is about ning performance from the New Jersey “unity.” Symphony Orchestra. ~Christina M. Hinke The ensemble kicked off its first half with a tribute to America, just days before the Fourth of July, playing staples such as “The RETURN OF THE WESTFIELD ART ASSOCIATION...Clockwise from bot- WF Location Proves Star Spangled Banner” and “America the tom: Gladys Reimers – “Mother and Child”– coral alabaster sculpture; Hanna Beautiful.” Keselman – “Two Espresso Pots” – oil painting; Joseph Hulsen – “Spring Snow” To Be ‘Picture Perfect’ Led by conductor Jeffery Grogan, the – acrylic painting; Elena Nazzaro – “Storytime” – acrylic & coffee wash / bristol WESTFIELD – A crew of nearly 70 orchestra had fans hanging onto each note, paper; Rachel Felz – “American Kestrel” – watercolor painting. people scrambled frantically on a secluded clapping and even dancing in their seats. front lawn on Ramapo Way, where Scott Mr. Grogan wrapped up the first act of “As secretary to the new president, ~Susan M. Dougherty Rosenbaum was directing his first feature the show with “The Thunderer March” by Paul Deroo, I look forward to the renewal film. Sousa. of programs and shows, and to the com- As the cameramen prepared to shoot, The second half of the show was dedi- panionship of dear friends who will come September Peter Fonda casually walked onto the set, cated solely to Broadway pieces from together under the new leadership,” she where a 1970s Airstream van was parked Gershwin, Rodgers and more. said. in the street. Concertgoer Rosemary Topar of “The WAA is an asset to the commu- Rain-Shortened The Spike Lee-fronted movie, entitled Westfield said she expected nothing less nity as it engenders a love of the arts, The Perfect Age of Rock ‘n’ Roll, is an than a great performance from the orches- which enrich the lives of all of us. Let us MusicFest Still Success adaptation of Mr. Rosenbaum’s short film, tra. hope it continues its activities for many CRANFORD – It was a bittersweet end- Coda. The independent film features two “They always do a wonderful job,” Ms. years to come,” she continued. ing after all. lifelong friends – Spider, played by Kevin Topar said. “It’s great to be able to see a According to Mr. Deroo, membership After a midweek decision by Union world-class ensemble for free.” County MusicFest organizers that the two- Christina M. Hinke for The Westfield Leader and The Times Zegers, and Eric, played by Jason Ritter – in the 86-year-old organization has A KIND SOUL...Soul singer Isaac Hayes died Sunday, August 10, at the age of 65. and their cross-country road trip to fulfill ~Katie Rogers climbed 10 percent since reorganization day weekend festival would take place A Grammy and Oscar award winner who became famous for his theme to Shaft, their dreams of rock ‘n’ roll in the early ’90s. began. “rain or shine” at Nomahegan Park in he was known to younger generations more for his recurring role as the voice of Consequently, Mr. Rosenbaum said he Membership is open to artists, as well Cranford, the event was cut short on a Chef on “South Park.” Above, at right, Hayes performs at June’s Rhythm and is fulfilling dreams of his own by directing Elvis Tribute Leaves as patrons of the arts. Saturday evening in September, with three Blues by the Brook concert, which took place in Plainfield. the film. After majoring in journalism in Rahway ‘All Shook Up’ “We will make every effort to have bands left to play, due to weather con- college, Mr. Rosenbaum said he began to much better coordination of our activities cerns from the remnants of Tropical Storm work on Wall Street and wrote screenplays RAHWAY – The Union County Arts with other groups in the town, including Hanna. at night. After 9/11, he said he made this Center was transformed into equal parts the high school and the intermediate Anticipated headliners, the B-52’s and project a “personal commitment” and Memphis and Las Vegas in July, as the schools, the recreation department, the Tokyo Police Club, never got the chance worked diligently to complete it. venue hosted the finals of the New Jersey Downtown Westfield Corporation, the to take the stage. CHRISTOFFERS Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. Fonda plays father figure August West. Established 1976 West’s best friend, Chip Jenson – a tragic The event marked the first time the con- figure in the vein of Kurt Cobain and Jimi test, one of the few impersonator shows officially licensed by the Elvis estate, has 860 Mountain Avenue taken place in the Garden State. Setting The Scene A Las Vegas native won the contest – Mountainside NJ 07092 part of a three-day festival that marked the 908-233-0500 50th anniversary of the recording of Elvis’ debut single – and took home $3,500 and a chance to compete in the semi-finals of the Ultimate Elvis contest in Memphis. The night was not without local signifi- cance, as Westfield’s own Jimmy Barone drew a raucous response from the audience, Christmas garnering him a third-place finish. “He’s as good as the real Elvis,” pro- claimed Jerry Sorce of Mr. Barone. “I’ve Merchandise been an Elvis fan for years, and I’ve never heard anyone sound that close to him. I was gonna have him sing at my daughter’s wedding.” Clearance Bayville resident Tom Carreno agreed with Mr. Sorce, calling Mr. Barone “the best in the world.” ~ Eric Nierstedt Courtesy of Ren Media Publishing, Inc. and Christina L. Wilson Reduced to WESTFIELD IS KING...Westfield’s Jim Barone earned third place honors at the August recent Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. Mr. Barone walked away with $1,000. Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce % and the historical society, to name just a Although Saturday’s evening cancel- WF Art Association few,” continued Mr. Deroo. lation was a disappointment, Friday’s per- ~Marylou Morano formances were unhindered. At the 8:30 75 p.m. slot on Friday night, Portland, Ore.- Off Reorganizes in 2008 based rockers Everclear drew by far the WESTFIELD — After a period of in- Fanwood Dad Plays Evil biggest and most diverse crowd of the activity – including months following the day. death of its president, Barbara Schwinn – Marquis on Broadway Everclear’s performance marked the Contribute to our WBGO Coat Drive . . . a newly reorganized Westfield Arts As- FANWOOD – Fanwood dad Les Minski final chapter of Friday night’s events, Receive a complimentary gift sociation (WAA) geared up in 2008 to has traded in his self-proclaimed moniker which included Cracker, Jenny Owen once again become an active presence in of “Mr. Mom” for the title “The most evil Youngs, Pat DiNizio of the Smithereens, www.christoffersflowers.com the community. man in France.” As the Marquis St. Beale Street Love and Tom Vella. At an August reorganization meeting, Evremonde in Broadway’s A Tale of Two For Everclear, “Father of Mine” and Paul Deroo of Westfield was elected presi- HOURS: MON. - FRI. 9:00 - 5:30 • SAT. 9:00 - 5:00 Cities, he plays a man who, in Mr. Minski’s “A.M. Radio” were clear crowd favor- dent, and former WAA Board Member words, “has no redeeming qualities whatso- ites. Barbara Zietchick, previously of ever.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

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