Ad Populos, Non Aditus, Pervenimus
Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890 (908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, April 9, 2009 OUR 119th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 15-2009 Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] SIXTY CENTS Mayor Andy Skibitsky to Face Off With Former Judge Bill Brennan By MICHAEL J. POLLACK tee, under his reign, has “challenged accountability and transparency to Specially Written for The Westfield Leader each budgeted line item.” Westfield’s governing body,” he said. WESTFIELD – In November, Re- “Since 2006,” he said, “departmen- “I introduced the model of a budget publican Mayor Andy Skibitsky will tal operating budgets have increased by presentation directly to the citizens at vie for his second term of office against a total of only $60,000. Over the past council meetings. We now present a former municipal judge William four years, 22 positions have either detailed budget to the public each year, Brennan, a Democrat. In addition, all been eliminated or adjusted to part- post the presentation on the town four wards will see competitive races time, equating to a reduction of almost website and include a letter with each for four seats on the town council. 16 full-time positions, which, in turn, tax bill that summarizes ‘Where Does Republicans, who hold the majority results in $1 million in savings to the Your Tax Dollar Go?’” on council and the mayor’s chair, have taxpayer. My focus will continue to be Mr. Brennan, currently the senior a 7-2 edge. All candidates are seeking on spending our tax dollars as wisely managing partner of a 40-attorney law four-year terms. and efficiently as possible.” firm, called the mayor’s claim of pro- Mayor Skibitsky filled the unexpired The mayor touted efforts made to viding transparency “absurd.” term of Greg McDermott in June 2005 provide increased transparency and “We need transparency during the and defeated former Mayor Tom Jardim openness, including holding Saturday budget process,” the former Rutherford in November of that year. Mr. Skibitsky morning office hours and placing the councilman continued. “The process is had previously served as third ward budget on the improved town website. broken. Andy [Skibitsky] hasn’t been councilman. “I believe that during my term, we to a budget meeting in four years. Only The mayor said the finance commit- opened the doors to communication, four of nine council members attend the meetings, and the only transpar- Courtesy of Chris Boyle ency occurs after the budget’s com- SPRINGTIME...The new Yankee Stadium is all set for the home opener next week against the Cleveland Indians. The above pleted.” picture was taken during a special tour of the new facility, which was given last Thursday. Mr. Brennan vowed to attend every budget meeting and require that all eight council members do as well. Mrs. Munoz Joins Asm. Bramnick “I’ve already informed my running mates,” he said. “Look, if you don’t want to put in the time, don’t run…It’s not a punishment [to attend]. These are In Assembly Bid, Faces Challengers all smart people with good ideas.” By PAUL J. PEYTON Tom Kean, Jr. and Phil Morin did not leaders to make a quick decision in Mr. Brennan, in an e-mail to The Specially Written for The Westfield Leader return phone calls seeking comment on filing a vacancy on the ballot. Calling Westfield Leader, also proposed “an SUMMIT — Republican leaders on the meeting. Mr. Munoz’s death a “tragic event,” he immediate decrease in the price of park- Sunday night selected Nancy Munoz Although not in attendance at said no one wanted to see a two-day ing tickets and [softening] the aggres- of Summit, the widow of Assembly- Sunday’s meeting, Glenn Mortimer, campaign with Mr. Munoz’s funeral sive approach of our ticket enforce- man Eric Munoz, to succeed her hus- the Republican chairman for having taken place just last Friday. ment policy.” band on the June Primary Election Mountainside, where he serves as a Mrs. Munoz holds an undergraduate Third Ward Republican incumbent Ballot. She joins Assemblyman Jon councilman, said he was unable to at- degree in nursing from Skidmore Col- Mark Ciarrocca criticized Mr. Brennan Bramnick of Westfield, Long Hill Town- tend the meeting but supported the de- lege and a master’s degree from Hunter for failing to identify himself as a can- ship Mayor George Vitureira and Long cision to name Mrs. Munoz to the now College as a clinical nursing specialist
Horace Corbin for The Westfield Leader didate for mayor in his latest letter to Hill Board of Education member Bruce vacant Assembly seat. “If it was fine in ambulatory care. TRAGEDY...A SUV went out of control Monday afternoon at the intersection of The Leader. He also said the race for Meringolo in the quest for the GOP with everyone else, it was fine with She has also been involved locally in East Broad Street and North Avenue in Westfield, striking and killing a pedes- mayor will come down to “which can- nomination to run for two Assembly me,” he said. Summit, having served as president of trian. Traffic in the region was delayed for hours due to the investigation. See story didate is going to be the best leader of seats in November. “She has the education background the Parent-Teacher Associations at both this page. all the townspeople as opposed to some- Mr. Munoz, a trauma surgeon at the (to hold the seat). She has definitely Summit High School and Brayton El- one who may be more partisan in na- University of Medicine and Dentistry discussed issues with Eric. So, she has ementary School. She also was presi- ture.” of New Jersey, died March 30 follow- a good background in that respect,” Mr. dent of the Summit school district’s Car Accident Kills Man Third Ward Democratic incumbent ing surgery for a ruptured aorta. He had Mortimer said. President’s Council. Mrs. Munoz was David Haas said Mayor Skibitsky, while served in the State Legislature since Mrs. Munoz made it official by filing unavailable for comment for this story. “genuinely warm and friendly,” is a 2001, after being first nominated to fill her nominating petition by Monday’s 4 In a press release issued Monday, At Westfield Intersection “manager of stasis.” a vacant Assembly seat. p.m. deadline. Mr. Meringolo said the 21st District is By SUZETTE F. STALKER According to Captain Auchter, Mr. “When there are problems [such as At the meeting held Sunday night, Mr. Mortimer said the 4 p.m. Mon- “unfairly treated by the Democrats in Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Kinkade was pronounced dead at the pot holes and street repair], he makes the Republican Committee of Union day state deadline to appear on the June Trenton, and I want to create some WESTFIELD – A 36-year-old scene. The Westfield Rescue Squad sure to get them solved, but he does not County unanimously selected Mrs. Primary Election ballots forced GOP CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Westfield man was killed Monday transported the driver of the High- provide a vision of where the town Munoz to run on the GOP county line afternoon when he was struck by a lander to Overlook Hospital in Sum- should be going nor the leadership to with Asm. Bramnick in the June Pri- SUV that then hit another car. The mit. She was discharged Tuesday, a get there,” Mr. Haas said of the incum- mary Election. The committee repre- Ferraro’s South to Expand accident occurred at 2:30 p.m. at North hospital spokeswoman confirmed. bent mayor. sents nine of the 16 towns that make up Avenue West and East Broad Street, Rescue squad and Westfield Fire One other possible mayoral candi- the 21st Legislative District, including police said. Department personnel transported the date, John Blake, has circulated a peti- Cranford, Garwood, Mountainside and Parking Lot, Rest. Seating Captain Clifford Auchter of the driver of the BMW to Robert Wood tion to run as an Independent. Mr. Blake Westfield. There are four towns from By CHRISTINA M. HINKE Ferraro’s South is not expanding Westfield Police Department said a 2008 Johnson University Hospital in said his petition received “excellent Morris County, two in Somerset County Specially Written for The Westfield Leader its building, but it is adding more Toyota Highlander driven by Dora Rahway. A hospital spokeswoman CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 and one in Essex County. WESTFIELD — The Westfield seats to accommodate 70 from its Mendez, 68, of Garwood was traveling said she was treated and released Planning Board heard two cases previous 48. eastbound on North Avenue when it Monday. Monday night at its regular monthly Planner James Watson testified on traveled up onto the sidewalk alongside Captain Auchter said it is unknown Teachers Union Chimes in meeting. behalf of the applicant. “We comply the monument to veterans of World at this time what caused the High- Ferraro’s South, the catering busi- with all setbacks of new construc- War I, striking Kirk Kinkade, an em- lander to travel up onto the sidewalk. ness on South Avenue, was approved tion,” he said. ployee of the Westfield Area “Y.” After The incident remains under investi- On Westfield School Budget to demolish the neighboring two-and- The applicant will “eliminate a sign being struck, the victim was thrown gation by the Westfield Police De- CHRISTINA M. HINKE unfortunate,” she said. a-half-story house at 211 South Av- on the southeasterly side,” he said, across the southern side of East Broad partment and the Union County Specially Written for The Westfield Leader “I meet every single Tuesday with enue and turn it into a parking lot with and add a “new sign located at the Street, winding up near the 9/11 Me- Prosecutor’s Office. WESTFIELD – “There was never the superintendent. I saw the writing an accessible driveway on South Av- easterly side of the entrance on South morial. The captain stated that no charges a guarantee that a giveback could on the wall when it got as bad as it enue. Kris McAloon, town engineer, Avenue.” The Highlander continued on across had been filed at present against the save a program,” said Kim did. We made suggestions in ways to noted, “Since it’s on South Avenue, it Robert Algarin, architect on the East Broad Street, where it then struck driver of the Highlander. Witnesses Schumacher, president of the cut costs,” she said. would need the county planning board application, had shown pictures of a 2008 BMW driven by Nancy Boehm, to the accident are asked to call the Westfield Education Association Her association helped devise the approval.” the signs. 49, of Westfield. traffic bureau at (908) 789-4000. (WEA), the union for the 541 teach- energy savings plan that Westfield The company purchased the land Jeff Cadoff of EKA Associates, the ers, nurses, child study team work- schools put in place recently. “We from Faris Group LLC. Seven addi- professional engineer on the applica- ers and librarians in the Westfield have been saving hundreds of thou- tional spaces will be added to the lot, tion, said the applicant would have a Citing Decline in Aid, GW Public School System. In addition, sands of dollars,” she said. “That’s making capacity at 17 where 25 is “retention basin to reduce flow given that Superintendent of Schools one of the biggest ones from a com- required per town ordinance. The new offsite.” Margaret Dolan could not guarantee plete association standpoint.” lot will be about five feet lower than Board member Robert Newell BOE Moves for Deferral the school budget tax levy would When she met with the superin- the existing lot, and a new concrete asked him to make a modification to By RAYNOR DENITZIO increase of $666,674 over last year. pass, Ms. Schumacher said the WEA tendent and discussed the layoffs, stairway will be built for access to the the lighting portion of the application Specially Written for The Westfield Leader The total tax levy is $6,317,068 and could not agree to any givebacks and she said, “I was very clear that it just existing lot and catering building. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 GARWOOD — Having received results in an average tax increase of follow in the footsteps of the admin- can’t be teachers — it has to be word late last week that their state aid $107 for a home assessed at $103,000, istration that gave back what equates district- wide.” She said the superin- for the current year will be decreased, an increase of 2.94 percent. to one day’s pay. tendent agreed. the Garwood Board of Education moved In presenting the budget last Wednes- Ms. Schumacher’s biggest fear was When asked if other options were Tuesday to defer a portion of its pen- day, School Business Administrator losing programs that affect the stu- put on the table to save jobs, such as sion bill in an effort to offset the cost. Ernest Turner warned that the budget dents. “When we eliminate counse- salary cuts, she responded, “They Last Wednesday during a special process next year would likely be more lors, we’re hurting kids; when we [superintendent] did not discuss sal- meeting, the BOE formally introduced difficult since this is the last year the eliminate foreign languages, we’re ary cuts.” an $8,256,774 operating budget, an CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 hurting kids,” said Ms. Schumacher, The WEA contract expires June also a guidance counselor at 30, 2010. Westfield has one of the Roosevelt Intermediate School. highest teaching starting salary rates Superintendent Dolan met with in the state, currently at $55,149 for a the “presidents of the local associa- teacher holding a bachelor’s degree tions a few weeks back to talk about and $57,949 for a master’s degree. difficulties with the budget,” Ms. Next year that shifts to $57,289 and Schumacher said. On March 31, the $60,059, respectively. board of education introduced an Ms. Schumacher said, “We have $89.5-million budget that will real- one of the lowest increases per year. ize about 23 layoffs and a reduction We have come in under 4 percent of 48 stipend positions, while at the each year. We are not jumping as- same time student enrollment has tronomically in contract negotia- increased. tions. We come in below state aver- Ms. Schumacher blamed age.” Westfield’s budget problems on the The budget proposed also elimi- CRIME FIGHTERS...Jeannie and Ken Arida of Westfield, victims of a burglary in state formula. nated custodial, paraprofessional, an area of Westfield that has seen an increased frequency of home burglaries, “They (the state) look at town’s secretarial and computer technician coordinated a neighborhood meeting and opened their home April 2 to more than like Westfield and think we are staff and realigned the information 50 of their neighbors. They heard from Captain David Wayman, standing third wealthy by [looking at] house values technology director and supervisor from right, and Lieutenant Joseph Costanzo, standing second from right, on how and what we make and, so, they feel and special services coordinator po- the neighbors, working and communicating together, can help prevent future like we don’t need as much aid as sitions, which are not part of the burglaries. Mayor Andy Skibitsky and Councilman Frank Arena, standing at right, other towns do,” she said. Westfield’s WEA. also attended. The Westfield Leader reported last week about the rise in burglaries. cost-per-pupil is lower than the Voters will be asked to cast their state’s average, but she said, “the ballot on the budget on Tuesday, PAGE INDEX Paul Lachenauer for The Westfield Leader state does not look at that.” April 21, as well as elect board of Regional ...... 2-3, 16 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-13 NAME THAT TUNE...Members of the newly formed Deerfield School Jazz Band Editorial ...... 4-5, 16 Education ...... 9, 17 Classifieds .... 15 in Mountainside perform last Tuesday, a week ago, at the board of education “There still are people who are education members. Polls are open meeting and entertain attendees from the public. going to lose their jobs, which is in Westfield from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Community ... 6-8, 16 Sports ...... 11-14 A&E ...... 17-18 Page 10 Thursday, April 9, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A Watchung Communications, Inc. Publication UNICO Seeks Funds to Aid Italian Earthquake Victims COUNTY — The Plainfields and Scotch lies and children in particular. Plains UNICO, acting on behalf of the Donald DiFrancesco, a former acting national organization, and the Italian-Ameri- Governor, State Senator and Scotch Plains can Club of Scotch Plains are banding native, traces his ancestry to the Abruzzo together to provide earthquake relief to region, and a town called Montazzoli. His L’Aquila and surrounding towns devas- family members also founded the Italian- tated by the earthquake in the Abruzzo American Club in Scotch Plains, the major- region of Italy. ity of whose membership trace their lineage The Scotch Plains area is home to a large to the Abruzzo region of Italy. contingent of Italian immigrants originally “This is a terrible time for the residents of from the Abruzzo region of Italy. People L’Aquila, and our prayers go out to our from the region are known as Abruzzese. fellow Italians. We are Italian-Americans, Renato Biribin, past national president of and we never forget our ancestral roots,” the national organization of UNICO and a said Mr. DiFrancesco, who helped found Scotch Plains attorney, is organizing the the Italian-American Heritage Commission earthquake relief effort on behalf of UNICO (njitalia.nj.gov). “I am looking forward to nationwide. Mr. Biribin is also the founder working with the community, organiza- of the Plainfields Chapter of UNICO. tions such as UNICO and the Italian-Ameri- Greg Ryan for The Westfield Leader “As Italian-Americans, we are deeply can Club, in pulling together our resources Benjamin B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader HEALTHY MEETING...The Occupational Center of Union County in Roselle saddened by the devastating earthquake to help.” SOLEMN CEREMONY...Funeral services are held for Assemblyman Eric Munoz celebrated its 50th anniversary on Tuesday. The center offers individualized and the humanitarian crisis it has caused, Anyone wishing to donate can send a tax- last Friday at St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church in Summit. Mr. Munoz died training leading to long-term employment for people with disabilities in the job and we want to do something to help,” said deductible donation payable to: “UNICO Monday of that week of a heart attack. market or in the on-site industrial work center in Roselle, shown above. President Mr. Biribin, who also helped coordinate Foundation,” earmarked “Disaster Relief Mark Lasky and Chairman of the Board Charles Walter welcomed several area UNICO’s effort to assist victims of the Fund” and mailed to: 271 U.S. Highway 46 dignitaries to the event. For more information, see occupationalcenter.org. Italian earthquake in 1980, which killed West, Suite A-108, Fairfield, NJ 07004. more than 2,700 people just south of Naples. UNICO Foundation is a 501(c)(3) cor- “While emotions run high, it’s also impor- poration. UNICO, which means unique or POLICE BLOTTER tant to note that we get the funds to the right one of a kind in Italian, was founded in Westfield Planning Bd. organizations at the grass roots to provide 1922. UNICO has members in 131 chapters direct help.” in 19 states, who work to support charitable, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Westfield Thursday, April 2, a resident of Wood Mr. Biribin said UNICO is arranging to educational, scientific and literary projects Monday, March 30, Michael Ross, 27, Valley Road reported that someone dam- by eliminating the tilted lights and that the “applicants develop a cross- work with groups such as Catholic Chari- while promoting Italian heritage and com- of Scotch Plains was arrested at the aged the windshield and the passenger replacing it with 15-foot-high light easement agreement,” Mr. Newell said. ties USA and Boys’ Town of Italy, which bating negative stereotyping. For more in- Middlesex County jail on four outstand- side rear view mirror of his motor vehicle poles for better distribution of light. On the agenda, Mark Angelo with- provide humanitarian aid to seniors, fami- formation, see unico.org. ing Westfield contempt of court warrants while it was parked in the street. The “I prefer to see no tilt on the fix- drew his prior application to subdi- totaling $1,140. He was committed on damage was done with a rock that was tures,” he said. Mr. Newell also said vide 1053 Prospect Street into three default of bail to the Union County jail. found at the scene. he would like some of the current residential lots. Tuesday, March 31, Alexander Friday, April 3, officers responded to a lighting replaced with the 15-foot- Two applicants were granted ex- Westfield Town Races Liberman, 28, of Summit was arrested on report of a distraught female juvenile at a high light poles to “make it uniform” tensions. Gentemp and Jean CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 an outstanding Jersey City contempt of Route 22 diner. According to police, the court warrant in the amount of $150 after juvenile was crying hysterically and stated with the new lot lighting. He said the Genievich of 254 Seneca Place were response,” but he has not made a final Speaking on behalf of his slate, Ken a motor vehicle stop at East Broad Street that she did not have any recollection of current lighting causes glare and is approved to extend its application decision about whether or not to run. Rotter, chairman of the Westfield Demo- and Stanley Avenue. He was released how she got to the diner. The individual not energy efficient. until July 2010. CFGR of 430-510 In Ward One, Councilman Sal cratic Party, said, “The challenges fac- after posting bail. stated that the last thing she remembered James Hely, a nearby resident on Central Avenue was also approved Caruana chose not to run for re-elec- ing Westfield today require new ideas, Tuesday, March 31, the owner of a was her father dropping her off at a the- South Avenue, asked the board to for an extension. tion, setting up a contest between not more of the same…Bill Brennan clothing store on the 100 block of East ater in Bayonne, at which time she met approve the application. “These In an agenda section titled Com- attorneys Sam Della Fera, Jr., a Re- brings the fresh perspective, can-do Broad Street reported the theft of mer- three male juveniles, authorities reported. people have been exceptional neigh- munications, Harbor Consultants Inc. publican, and Janice Siegel, a Demo- attitude and positive leadership needed chandise in the amount of $2,430. She stated that one of the male juveniles bors since they started,” he said. made an application with the New crat. to move Westfield forward and make it Tuesday, March 31, a resident of the gave her a soda and the next thing she The other case heard was for prop- Jersey Department of Environmental Mr. Caruana, who was first elected an even better place to live and raise a 800 block of Lenape Trail reported the knew she was along the highway, police theft of jewelry valued at approximately said. The incident is under investigation. erty at 414 and 416 Westfield Avenue, Protection (DEP) for Flood Hazard in November 2002, told The Leader, family.” $15,000 from the home. The theft oc- Sunday, April 5, a resident of Sunrise to modify use from general office to a Area Line Verification and Individual Tuesday, that he “immensely enjoyed” curred between February 13 and March Parkway reported that two black males professional office. Alan Rasmussen Permit Report for Lenape Park his time on the council, but that after 27. There were no signs of forced entry. were walking around the rear of her prop- spoke on behalf of applicant Ronald Bikeway; Freshwater Wetlands and seven years, “it was time to move Wednesday, April 1, Richard Green, erty. According to police, one appeared to Rasmussen, as he is his son and has Flood Hazard Area Application No- aside and give someone else the op- Area Races 34, of Jersey City was arrested on an be looking for something on the ground as power of attorney. He said his father tice to Neighboring Landowners re- portunity.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 outstanding Jersey City contempt of court the other was seen urinating on a tree. The purchased the property 12 years ago garding replacement of Union County Mr. Della Fera practices in West Or- noise in opposition to their status quo warrant after a motor vehicle stop at Clark homeowner called out to the men and and used it as a general office, and Culvert No. SP-17 at Hillside Avenue ange, concentrating mostly in the areas policies.” Street and Stanmore Place. He was re- they fled the scene, police said. A search four years ago bought the adjacent over tributary to Rahway River in the of bankruptcy, corporate restructuring “We are burdened by unfair school leased after posting $180 bail. of the area by the homeowner produced a Wednesday, April 1, Harris Podvey, small ziplock bag that contained suspected house, which has a shared driveway, Township of Springfield; Biennial and commercial litigation. He is a gradu- funding, which directly impacts prop- 43, of West Caldwell was arrested and marijuana, officers reported. The CDS and rented it. Certification Monitoring Report for a ate of Rutgers University School of erty taxes, one of the nation’s highest charged with hindering apprehension for was bagged and placed into evidence The applicant was approved to Ground Water Classification Excep- Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor- overall state tax burdens, and unneces- allegedly failing to properly identify him- pending destruction. modify the use and bring the parking tion Area for Getty Service Station at ate, and Pennsylvania State University, sary COAH (Council on Affordable self after being stopped for a motor ve- Fanwood up to par with code, with the condition 201 South Avenue, West. where he did his undergraduate work. Housing) requirements,” said Mr. hicle violation on the 200 block of West Wednesday, April 1, Mike Roberson, Ms. Siegel has lived in Westfield for Meringolo, a commercial real estate South Avenue. Podvey was issued a sum- 43, of Plainfield was arrested after a mo- more than 13 years with her husband, agent in Whippany. mons at Westfield police headquarters tor vehicle stop on Terrill Road on an Dr. Lloyd Marks, and their sons, Matt Mr. Vitureira, a lawyer, said the state and released. outstanding warrant out of Harrison. He Garwood Pension Deferral and Michael. She is a graduate of Hunter is “in the middle of a terrible economic Wednesday, April 1, Jose Roman, 38, was processed and released after posting CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of Woodbridge was arrested at Plainfield bail. College and earned her law degree from situation and the governor (Jon Corzine) police headquarters on a Westfield con- Thursday, April 2, a business owner on borough will receive aid from the when the district was phasing out its the University of Michigan. Ms. Siegel is not meeting his fiscal responsibili- tempt of court warrant in the amount of the 200 block of North Avenue reported breakup of the Union County Regional science textbook, a class was short one has worked as an attorney for the United ties.” $500. He was held in lieu of bail. that someone did approximately $10 worth High School District. book, and since the textbook was out of States Department of Justice and now “Rather than raising taxes and cut- Wednesday, April 1, Keith Anderson, of damage to a flagpole on his property by “It is going to be very, very difficult print, the school was unable to pur- manages the business aspects of her ting municipal aid, which has the effect 41, of Plainfield was arrested at Plainfield knocking it down. to keep the tax impact at the same level chase additional copies from the pub- husband’s medical practice. of raising local property taxes, we should police headquarters on outstanding con- Thursday, April 2, Thomas Drexler, next year,” Mr. Turner said. lisher. A parent then found a copy of the Republican Vicki Kimmins will seek trim the size of our government and tempt of court warrants from Westfield 57, of Bridgewater was arrested after a On Tuesday, the board voted to make book online for $2, purchased it and re-election in the second ward. She eliminate expensive programs taxpay- and Newark, in the amounts of $500 and motor vehicle stop on South Avenue on a payment of $25,926 to the state Divi- donated it to the school. defeated Frank Fusaro in 2006. Ms. ers cannot afford,” Mr. Vitureira said. $125, respectively. He was processed and an outstanding Raritan Borough warrant. committed on default of bail to the Union He was processed and released after post- sion of Pension and Benefits, deferring “I’ve been here for 20 years, and Kimmins is a graduate of Penn State Filing for the Democrats are Norman County jail on both warrants. ing bail. more than $20,000 until 2011. we’ve never asked our students to buy University. She is currently a member Albert of Cranford, an assistant coun- Wednesday, April 1, Joi Blassingame, Saturday, April 4, a resident on the 50 Mr. Turner said the deferred money books,” Ms. Quigley said. of the Junior League of Elizabeth- sel for the County of Union, and Spring- 28, of Linden was arrested on an out- block of Glenwood Road reported that is equal to the amount the borough’s During the meeting, resident John Plainfield and a delegate to the state field resident and Township Attorney standing Elizabeth contempt of court sometime overnight someone broke the state aid will be reduced. Finance Com- Colin sought to clarify what he be- Public Affairs Committee, where she Bruce Bergen. Both candidates ran for warrant on the 500 block of West South front window of her residence with an mittee Chairwoman Susan Groning said lieved was a misrepresentation of his advocates for legislation promoting the the Assembly in 2007. Avenue. She was processed and released unknown object. the deferment will be paid back over a comments during the budget meeting welfare of women and children. Also filing Monday were candidates after posting $100 bail. Saturday, April 4, a resident reported period of 15 years. in an article in the online edition of The Ms. Kimmins’ opponent is Carolyn for Governor. Governor Corzine is be- Thursday, April 2, after being stopped that he left his motor vehicle parked in the “It’s only going to be a little more Cranford Chronicle. Mr. Conlin took Klinger-Kueter. She is the owner of the ing challenged in the Democratic Pri- for a motor vehicle violation on the 200 South Avenue train station lot overnight block of Springfield Avenue, William and that someone smashed the driver’s than $1,000 a year,” Ms. Groning said exception with the implication that he Carolyn Klinger-Kueter Music Studio mary by Jeff Boss of Guttenberg, former Devine, 37, of West Orange was arrested side window. Nothing was reported miss- of the payback. “It’s going to be such a “rebuked” the board of education. in Westfield, where she teaches stu- Glen Ridge Mayor Carl Bergmanson on an outstanding Clark contempt of court ing at this time, officers said. small amount in 2011 because they let “I think it’s unfortunate if any mem- dents of all ages. Former Mayor Bud and Roger Bacon of Phillipsburg. Mr. warrant in the amount of $165 and also Saturday, April 4, Dennis Rowland, you spread it out over 15 years.” ber of this group or the press wrongly Boothe defeated Ms. Klinger-Kueter in Bergmanson led an effort last year to was charged with possession of less than 19, of Newark was arrested on an active Also on Tuesday, Superintendent translated what I was saying as a re- her 1980 and 1982 attempts to win the have Mr. Corzine recalled. 50 grams of suspected marijuana and Newark warrant after a motor vehicle Teresa Quigley provided an update on buke,” Mr. Conlin said. Second Ward. Terms lasted two years On the Republican side, former possession of drug paraphernalia. Devine stop on Terrill Road. He was processed a statement made during last week’s Prior to the executive session, board during that period. United States Attorney Chris Christie posted bail on the warrant and was re- and released after posting bail. budget meeting. Resident Karen Resetar member Russell Graham suggested the Races in Wards Three and Four both of Mendham will face off against former leased on his own recognizance on the was critical of the board, saying that it possibility of utilizing the board’s feature Democratic incumbents. Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan, State Westfield charges. Saturday, April 4, Earlisha Green, 21, WF Pool Accepting should “make sure every kid has a book website as a way for the public to In Ward Three, Mr. Haas will seek Assemblyman Rick Merkt (LD-25, of Plainfield was arrested on an outstand- in the school.” submit questions which could then be re-election. He lives on Mendham) and South Brunswick busi- ing Irvington contempt of court warrant Pre-Registrations Ms. Quigley said that in the class to answered during the public meeting. Shackamaxon Drive with his wife, nessman Dave Brown. in the amount of $165 after a motor ve- WESTFIELD – The Westfield Recre- which Ms. Resetar was referring, the Mr. Graham said it was “just an oppor- Dana, and daughter, Claire. His son, In the race for the neighboring Dis- hicle stop in the area of the 300 block of ation Department has sent 2009 pool in- teacher had recently returned from a tunity for [the board] to be better pre- Jacob, is a midshipman at the U.S. trict 22, which covers Scotch Plains South Avenue in Garwood. She was re- formation to all Westfield residents. Indi- two-year maternity leave and had be- pared for the meeting.” Naval Academy. He is a member of and Fanwood, Democratic incumbents leased after posting bail. vidual letters to 2008 members were sent gun teaching a class a specific novel. Board member Linda Koenig ex- the council’s Finance and Public Linda Stender of Fanwood and Jerry Saturday, April 4, Brandon R. Bond, by first class mail on March 6, and the When the teacher distribute dthe pressed reservations over the policy, Works Committees. Green of Plainfield are being challenged 22, of Newark was arrested at Westfield general information flyer, which goes to books to her students, she discovered noting that members are “supposed to Financial planner Tom Delaney, a in the Primary by Rick Smiley of police headquarters on outstanding con- all Westfield resident postal addresses, tempt of court warrants from Union and was mailed on March 13. that a few copies had been lost during know the answers when people show Republican, opposes Mr. Haas. Mr. Plainfield. Cranford, in the amounts of $275 and The department is now accepting pre- her absence. As a result, students were up” and that there was no guarantee that Ciarrocca said Mr. Delaney has “strong Former Scotch Plains Mayor Martin $250, respectively. He was released after registration from 2008 members through asked to share in the classroom. Ms. those asking the questions online would experience in the areas of budgets.” Mr. Marks, an endodontist, and William posting $525 total bail. Thursday, April 16. Those who did not Quigley said one of the students did actually attend the meetings. Delaney also serves as an assistant “Bo” Vastine, a businessman, also of Sunday, April 5, Silvia C. Lisa, 26, of receive an individual mailing can stop in purchase the book on his own, although Board president Adele Lewis said coach for Westfield Little League, Scotch Plains, filed for the GOP. Mr. Elizabeth was arrested at the Westfield or call the recreation department week- students were not instructed to do so. she agreed with Mr. Graham’s inten- flag football and basketball. He vol- Marks ran for Congress in the Seventh northside train station on a Roselle con- days from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to pick “[The teacher] did have the children tion of utilizing technology to promote unteers his time helping Cub Scout Congressional District last year in the tempt of court warrant in the amount of up a registration form. share the book, but it was in class,” Ms. more public involvement but also un- Troop 673 and the St. Mary’s dinner GOP Primary and for State Senate in $165. She was transported to Westfield New member in-person registration will Quigley said. “It’s not that they were derstood the reservations expressed by program, a soup kitchen in Plainfield. 2003. police headquarters, processed and re- be held on Saturday, April 18, starting at 8 leased after posting bail. a.m., in the municipal building community required to buy the book.” Ms. Koenig and Mr. Colin, who said he In Ward 4, Tom Bigosinski will seek In the race for Union County free- Scotch Plains room for Westfield residents only – pro- Ms. Quigley said a few years ago is “completely computer illiterate.” She re-election. Mr. Bigosinski has been a holder, Union County Freeholder Thursday, April 2, Akhirah Trent, 33, vided there are still memberships available. said the board would continue to seek practicing attorney for the past 15 years, Democratic incumbents Al Mirabella of Hillside was arrested and charged with Registration will remain open until Race and Fun Run ways to encourage a better flow of specializing in defending employment- and Deborah Scanlon filed for re-elec- providing false information to officers membership closes. Questions regarding information with residents. related lawsuits. He is a graduate of tion with their new running mate, after a motor vehicle stop. She was trans- Memorial Pool registration can be ad- On Tap April 19 Following executive session, the Rutgers University and received his Mohamed Jalloh of Roselle. Mr. Jalloh ported to police headquarters where she dressed by calling (908) 789-4080. Pric- WESTFIELD – The Westfield Rec- board also said it would be hiring Wil- law degree from Seton Hall Law School. replaces Freeholder Chester Holmes of was processed and released. ing and additional information is posted reation Department will hold its 19th liam Muzzio, business administrator As a councilman, he has served on the Rahway, who is retiring. They are be- Thursday, April 2, a resident of Martine on westfieldnj.gov/recreation. Annual 5-Miler and 1-Mile Fun Run for the Clark Board of Education, on an Public Works, Code Review and Park- ing challenged in the Primary by Avenue reported that someone caused approximately $75 worth of damage to WF School Budget, on Sunday, April 19. The 1-Miler will interim basis through June 30. Ms. ing Committees. Carmen Southward of Linden and her mailbox. begin at 9 a.m. and the 5-Miler race Quigley said this is part of the district’s “I am looking forward to campaign- Marlena Abitano of Elizabeth, running Friday, April 3, police investigated an Candidate Info. on TV36 will begin at 9:30 a.m. move towards further shared services ing again,” Mr. Bigosinski said, “and under the slogan “Democrats for Tax incident in which a motor vehicle parked WESTFIELD – A Westfield school The course will wind through the with the Clark school district. any opportunity to interact with the Reductions,” and Roselle candidates legally on Willow Street was struck by a budget forum, “Tough Choices for Our streets of Westfield, beginning and Tuesday’s meeting was the final ses- people of the fourth ward…I look for- Harry O. Wyatt, Jr. and James E. Moore, vehicle that then fled the scene. The impact Schools and Our Children,” a discussion ending in Tamaques Park. To register sion before the April 21 school board ward to talking in earnest over the next Jr., who are using the name “Roselle caused damage to the rear of the vehicle. of the 2009-2010 school district budget, online, visit westfieldnj.gov/recre- elections. The reorganization meeting few months about issues such as high Independent Democrats.” Sunday, April 5, Brandan Butler, 25, of is being broadcast on Blue Devils TV36 ation. To volunteer or become a spon- for the Garwood Board of Education is school parking, improving municipal Republican freeholder candidates are Plainfield was arrested and charged with from now through Tuesday, April 21. sor, call (908) 789-4080. scheduled for April 28 at 7:30 p.m. services and the ever-increasing taxes.” Garwood Councilman Anthony Sytko, possession of a controlled dangerous sub- For the exact dates and times, see stance (CDS) after a motor vehicle stop. westfieldnjk12.org (“What’s on Blue Republican Keith Loughlin, an at- Nicole Cole of Fanwood and Modesto He was transported to police headquar- Devils TV?”) . Candidates Night, which torney, opposes Mr. Bigosinski. He Miranda, Jr. of Roselle Park. County ters where he was processed and released. was held on March 30, was taped and is serves as a legislative aide for Jon Surrogate James LaCorte of Elizabeth, Sunday, April 5, Patrick Mitchell, 27, also being aired on WHS-TV36. Bramnick (LD-21, Westfield). a Democrat, is seeking re-election of Rahway was arrested and charged with The budget forum includes President “In his role, Keith has worked with a against Republican Arthur Zapolski of eluding police after allegedly refusing to of the Westfield Board of Education Ginny lot of elected officials in the area,” Mr. Roselle Park. comply with a motor vehicle stop. After Leiz, Finance Chairman and Vice Presi- Ciarrocca said. “Because shared ser- State Assemblyman Jerry Green (LD- eventually stopping, he was transported dent Julia Walker and Superintendent vices are growing more and more im- 22, Plainfield), Frank Cuesta of Eliza- to police headquarters where he was pro- Margaret Dolan. Westfield High School portant, the fact that he has worked with beth and Chris Hudak of Linden are cessed and released. junior Kate Brennan interviews them. Monday, April 6, Neeadak Allotey, 34, these people – mayors and councilmen running for the state Democratic Com- of Metuchen was arrested and charged Dolan Invites Public of both parties – is an asset. He’s worked mittee, while Westfield Councilman with possession of marijuana after a mo- with Jon and has exposure and instant James Foerst and former freeholder tor vehicle stop, at which time an officer To Hear About Budget credibility.” candidate Patricia Quattrocchi of smelled the odor of marijuana. He was WESTFIELD – Superintendent of Overall, Mr. Bramnick, chairman of Garwood are running for the state Re- transported to police headquarters where Schools Margaret Dolan invites the public the Westfield Republican Party, said, publican Committee, replacing Robert he was processed and released. to either of two meetings to learn more “This group brings incredible ability. Cockren of Westfield and Elizabeth Monday, April 6, a resident of Park about the Westfield school budget for 2009- As chair, my main objective is to find Cox of Summit. Avenue reported that someone entered 2010. The discussions will be held in the people who are really nice and who The Borough of Garwood will see his motor vehicle and removed his GPS, morning and the evening for the conve- care about Westfield.” Democratic incumbents Keith Sluka valued at $100. nience of Westfield residents. The first Margaret Diggory for The Westfield Leader Mountainside will be held Tuesday, April 14, at 10 a.m. POINT OF NO RETURN...County golfers note the demolition work underway at Mr. Ciarrocca said he liked the Re- and Kathleen Villaggio face Republi- Wednesday, April 1, Emmanuel C. in Edison Intermediate School’s audito- the former Oak Ridge Golf Course in Clark, closed at the beginning of the year publican slate’s chances, which he said cans James Matheson and Timothy Hak Hooper, 20, of Newark was arrested at the rium and the evening presentation will by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Plans for the land by the are buoyed by Chris Christie’s candi- for two open seats, each a three-year Scotch Plains Police Department on an take place Wednesday, April 15, at 8 p.m. county are uncertain. dacy for governor. term, on the council. outstanding warrant in the amount of $400. in Westfield High School’s Cafeteria B. USPS 485200 Thursday, April 9, 2009 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 SIXTY CENTS OUR 50TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 15-2009 Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J. www.timesnj.com [email protected] Area Candidates File for Town, County and State Offices By PAUL J. PEYTON and ship resident since 1991, has served two Democrats and two Republicans SUZETTE F. STALKER on the planning board since 2004. He on the township committee. Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times currently serves as Mayor Malool’s In Fanwood, Democrats Donna AREA – Republican Dominick representative on the board. Dolce and David Valian will both Bratti will face Democrat Theresa “This is a tough time for Scotch seek re-election to their seats on the Mullen in the race to fill the one-year Plains. In addition to facing a diffi- borough council. Opposing them will remaining on an expired term on the cult budget year, and all the issues be Mike Szuch and Robert Manduca, Scotch Plains Township Council. associated with that, we now need to who ran unsuccessfully for the coun- Meanwhile, in Fanwood, Borough choose a new township manager,” cil on the 2008 Republican ticket. Council incumbents, Democrats Mr. Bratti said. “I see this year as the Council terms are for three years each. Donna Dolce and David Valian, will first step in the process of moving the Democrats currently hold the face Republicans Robert Manduca town forward.” mayor’s seat and five of the six bor- and Mike Szuch in the November His opponent, attorney Ms. Mullen, ough council seats in Fanwood. Ms. General Election. was defeated by Mary DePaola last Dolce, who serves as council presi- In terms of the Scotch Plains cam- November in a race for a full, four- dent, is seeking her third term on the paign, Mr. Bratti joined the council in year seat on the council. Ms. Mullen’s governing body, while Mr. Valian is December after the local GOP com- husband, Scott Phillips, is a captain running for his second term. mittee named to fill the vacancy left with the Kenilworth Police Depart- Ms. Dolce recently retired from the when Councilwoman Nancy Malool ment. Girl Scouts of Washington Rock was elected mayor. Republicans in Scotch Plains hold Council. In October, she launched Mr. Bratti, an attorney and town- the mayor’s office, while there are her own company, Fanwood-based Dolce Consulting, for which she serves as a business consultant to non-profit organizations. She and her partner are residents of Carsam Street. She said “taxes and streamlining the economic challenges all munici- palities face” would be the focus of Courtesy of Chris Boyle her campaign. SPRINGTIME...The new Yankee Stadium is all set for the home opener next week. Special tours of the new facility were In discussing her reason for seek- given last Thursday as pictured above. ing another term, Ms. Dolce told The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times she believes she and her council col- leagues “will be taking a more in- BOE Explains 8.1 Percent Tax Hike tense look” at a “broader collabora- tion” between government, business and non-profits, to “bring quality ser- vices to our residents at a lower cost.” In Fanwood But 3.7 Percent in SP The candidate added that, “we have By TED RITTER in order to balance its budget, de- $100,000 cut from the budget saves to look at creative ways to develop Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times cided to implement “student activity just $8 in taxes. “You probably can’t new revenue sources.” FANWOOD — Three members of fees” for the first time for certain even go to McDonald’s for that,” he Mr. Valian lives on Westfield Road the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of extracurricular, athletic and music said. Charles Laskowski for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times and is employed as vice-president of Education, plus the district’s school LET THE HUNT BEGIN...The Easter Bunny visits children waiting for last programs at the high school and Mayor Colleen Mahr talked about Saturday’s Fanwood Easter Egg Hunt to begin at the age 8 and up section. sales with Petro Plastics in Garwood. business administrator, conducted a middle school levels, in addition to ways the school board could possibly He is married and the father of four budget-related presentation at Tues- cutting 18 jobs – including eight teach- reduce expenses, suggesting that the children. day night’s borough council agenda ers – and deferring all capital projects district “partner” with the borough In an interview with The Times, Mr. meeting. except window replacement at on implementing “green” policies at Valian said, “the budget is the biggest The presentation, requested by the Brunner School. the facilities level. Board Denies Home Business issue for everyone. If you’re getting governing body, focused on the school “We think it’s a very fair budget,” “That could be a real win from an involved or have been involved (in district’s proposed 2009-2010 bud- said Mr. O’Connor, adding that “any education point of view as well as a Permit For Prop Weapons service on the governing body), you get, which goes before voters in both further cuts would be painful.” budget point of view,” said Mayor have to be prepared to look into the towns on Tuesday, April 21. The Mr. O’Connor said that every CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 By FRED T. ROSSI spoke in opposition to the applica- spending plan rings up at nearly $80.8 Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times budget as deep as you can, as we have tion, including Pat Kaine, who said done in the past.” million, with about $73.5 million of SCOTCH PLAINS — The zoning she was “uncomfortable” at the po- He stated that any budget decisions that to be financed by local taxes. SP Council Interviews board of adjustment last Thursday tential of any weapons in the neigh- could impact multiple issues such as Mayor Colleen Mahr and the bor- denied an application for a temporary borhood. The Scotch Plains-Fanwood property taxes and services to resi- ough council asked a series of ques- operating permit (TOP) after a hear- Board of Education (BOE) issued a dents. “You have to be aware of the tions to clarify the local tax levy, Town Manager Candidates ing that focused on the potential for letter regarding the application that moves you make” in terms of crafting which will impact the average-as- By FRED T. ROSSI ings about a desire to have such a weapons being delivered to and stored contained several suggested condi- a municipal spending plan, he said. sessed homeowner by about $458 in Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times system installed. in a house near Evergreen School. tions if the board were to grant ap- Regarding development of munici- Fanwood and $246 in Scotch Plains, SCOTCH PLAINS — The town- The estimated cost of the project, Garry Pastore of 564 Pine Street proval. The conditions were that no pal budgets during his first term on or a percentage increase of 8.08 per- ship council conducted interviews which would be evenly divided be- sought the TOP so he could establish weapons or ammunition, blanks, etc. the council, Mr. Valian said, “Tough cent and 3.68 percent, respectively. with three candidates for township tween the eight to 10 houses on the a home-based business address that be allowed at Mr. Pastore’s house, decisions had to be made; some we School Business Administrator manager on Tuesday, and will inter- street, is about $300,000. The project, would allow him to secure a federal that no signage or advertising be vis- really didn’t like to make.” He stated Anthony Del Sordi said the state de- view another round of candidates next if requested by all homeowners on permit to purchase, modify and se- ible indicating that his home was a that he believed, however, that their termined the tax valuations. In ex- week. Mayor Nancy Malool told The Clark Lane, will take approximately cure weaponry used as props in mov- business location and that the number decisions “were best for the borough.” plaining the differing tax impact, he Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times she two years — between surveying and ies and television programs. Mr. of clients visiting his house be lim- Following their defeat last Novem- said the “total property valuation in hopes a final decision can be made by design work, state environmental pro- Pastore is prop master for the “Law & ited. ber, Mr. Szuch had promised he and Fanwood increased while the Scotch the end of the month. tection review, bidding and actual Order” television series and supplies BOE president Trip Whitehouse his running mate would “regroup and Plains valuation decreased.” The manager’s position has been construction. many of the prop weapons used on asked Mr. Pastore if all deliveries to run again next year.” The candidate, a School board members Sasha vacant since Michael Capabianco re- In an effort to lessen the frequency that show. Securing the federal li- his house would require a signature Westfield Road resident, could not be Slocum and Rob O’Connor high- signed from the position on February of vehicular accidents at the corner of cense, which requires him to have a vs. being left at his doorstep. Mr. reached for additional comment at lighted the budget process and chal- 18. Since that time, Robert LaCosta Park Avenue and Mountain Avenue, business address, would be useful in Pastore stated that no real weapons press time. lenges, including reduced state aid and Madeline Rutkowski have as- township engineers are requesting allowing him to directly secure prop would be delivered to his residence Mr. Manduca is an Arlene Court and increasing expenses. sumed the role as co-acting manag- permission to evaluate the intersec- weapons instead of having to rent — “none, zero, ever.” resident and the married father of one Mr. O’Connor, responding to ques- ers. tion, which is congested during rush them from third-party suppliers. Mr. Board members were split as to daughter. He is employed as vice- tions from the governing body, said Mayor Malool said that the list of hour from traffic entering and exiting Pastore said he intended to use his whether concerns about weapons at president for an information technol- the differing impact “seems to be the candidates, which is being assembled Route 22 and the bridge crossing over home office for administrative pur- Mr. Pastore’s house were warranted. ogy resource company. issue” of concern to Fanwood resi- with the assistance of consultant Jer- the highway. poses, including billing, invoicing and Board attorney Vince Loughlin The candidate told The Times that dents. sey Professional Management at no The council is waiting for 2009 other paperwork. pointed out that the TOP being re- “the issues are basic good govern- “There’s such a huge discrepancy,” cost to the township, contains several municipal budget recommendations While he maintained that any prop quested was to enable the issuance of ment, not Republican or Democrat. Ms. Slocum said. individuals who were considered last from consultant Gregory Fehrenbach. weapons would be shipped either to a the federal weapons license and told Taxes are going up and the town is not “A lot of people don’t understand year during the search to replace long- This year’s budget process would have storage unit in Mountainside or to the board he did not know “what that being managed in a forthright and that the state has [determined the] time township manager Thomas started two months ago, but is de- NBC offices in Manhattan — and not license entails.” Board member Tim open manner. Fanwood deserves bet- valuations; [they’re questioning], Atkins. layed due to the resignation of Mr. to his house — board members re- Livolsi repeatedly expressed concern ter.” ‘Why is Fanwood being punished, in In other business, township offi- Capabianco, who would normally peatedly pressed for confirmation that about such a business being located He cited as an example a town a sense?’” Mr. O’Connor said. cials are sending a letter to residents have submitted his spending recom- no weapons — including those manu- in a residential neighborhood near a CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Mr. Del Sordi said the school board, of Clark Lane containing details of mendation to the council. The coun- factured specifically to be mere fac- school. “I see no reason to do it,” he installing a sanitary sewer on that cil is also awaiting reaction from the similes — would be delivered to the said, suggesting instead that Mr. street. In recent months, several resi- state Department of Personnel to the Scotch Plains address. “I would not Pastore base his business elsewhere, dents have spoken at council meet- layoff plan it submitted last month. have anything sent to my house that’s such as in the business district. Car Accident Kills Man against the law,” Mr. Pastore told the Board member Ken Anderson, board. though, said the concerns were un- Several neighborhood residents CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 At Westfield Intersection By SUZETTE F. STALKER According to Captain Auchter, Mr. Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Kinkade was pronounced dead at the WESTFIELD – A 36-year-old scene. The Westfield Rescue Squad Westfield man was killed Monday transported the driver of the High- afternoon when he was struck by a lander to Overlook Hospital in Sum- SUV that then hit another car. The mit. She was discharged Tuesday, a accident occurred at 2:30 p.m. at North hospital spokeswoman confirmed. Avenue, West, and East Broad Street, Rescue Squad and Westfield Fire police said. Department personnel transported the Captain Clifford Auchter of the driver of the BMW to Robert Wood Westfield Police Department said a 2008 Johnson University Hospital in Toyota Highlander, driven by Dora Rahway. A hospital spokeswoman said Mendez, 68, of Garwood, was travel- she was treated and released Monday. ing eastbound on North Avenue when it Captain Auchter said it is unknown traveled up onto the sidewalk alongside at this time what caused the High- the monument to veterans of World lander to travel up onto the sidewalk. War I, striking Kirk Kinkade. The vic- The incident remains under investi- Horace Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times tim, an employee of the Westfield Area gation by the Westfield Police De- TRAGEDY...A SUV went out of control Monday afternoon at the intersection of “Y,” was standing on the sidewalk when partment and the Union County East Broad Street and North Avenue in Westfield, striking and killing a pedes- he was struck and thrown across the Prosecutor’s Office. The captain trian. Traffic in the region was delayed for hours due to the investigation. See story southern side of East Broad Street, stated that no charges had been filed this page. winding up at the 9/11 memorial. at present against the driver of the Margaret Diggory for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times PAGE INDEX POINT OF NO RETURN...County golfers note the grading work underway at the The Highlander continued on Highlander. across East Broad Street, where it Witnesses to the accident are asked Regional ...... 2-3, 16 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-13 former Oak Ridge Golf Course in Clark closed at the beginning of the year by the Editorial ...... 4-5, 16 Education ...... 9 Classifieds .... 15 Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Plans for the land by the county are then struck a 2008 BMW, driven by to call the Westfield traffic bureau at still under discussion. Nancy Boehm, 49, of Westfield. (908) 789-4000. Community ... 6-8, 16 Sports ...... 11-14 A&E ...... 17-18 Page 10 Thursday, April 9, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION UNICO Seeks Funds For Italian Earthquake Victims COUNTY — The Plainfields and Donald DiFrancesco, former acting Scotch Plains UNICO, acting on behalf Governor for New Jersey, a former State of the national organization and the Ital- Senator and a Scotch Plains native, traces ian Club of Scotch Plains, are banding his ancestry to the Abruzzo region, and a together to provide earthquake relief to town called Montazzoli. His family mem- L’Aquila and surrounding towns devas- bers also founded the Italian American tated by the earthquake in the Abruzzo Club in Scotch Plains, the majority of region of Italy. whose membership trace their lineage to The Scotch Plains area is home to a the Abruzzo region of Italy. large contingent of Italian immigrants “This is a terrible time for the residents originally from the Abruzzo region of of L’Aquila and our prayers go out to our Italy. People from the region are known fellow Italians. We are Italian-Americans as Abruzzese. Renato Biribin, past na- and we never forget our ancestral roots,” tional president of the national organiza- said Mr. DiFrancesco, who helped found tion of UNICO and a Scotch Plains attor- the Italian-American Heritage Commis- ney, is organizing the earthquake relief sion (njitalia.nj.gov). “I am looking for- effort on behalf of UNICO nationwide. ward to working with the community, Mr. Biribin is also the founder of the organizations such as UNICO and the Charles Laskowski for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Plainfields Chapter of UNICO. Italian American Club, in pulling together Benjamin B. Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times ARTS AND EASTER EGGS... This youngster enjoys coloring a few bunnies at the “As Italian-Americans, we are deeply our resources to help.” SOLEMN CEREMONY...Funeral services were held for Assemblyman Eric arts table during Saturday’s Easter Egg Hunt at Forest Road Park in Fanwood. saddened by the devastating earthquake Anyone wishing to donate, can send a Munoz last Friday at St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church in Summit. Mr. and the humanitarian crisis it has caused, tax-deductible donation payable to: Munoz died Monday of that week of a heart attack. and we want to do something to help,” UNICO Foundation Earmarked Disaster said Mr. Biribin, who also helped coordi- Relief Fund, and mail to: 271 U.S. High- nate UNICO’s effort to assist Italian earth- way 46, West, Suite A-108, Fairfield, Area Candidates File quake victims in 1980, which killed more N.J. 07004. POLICE BLOTTER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 than 2,700 people, just south of Naples. UNICO Foundation is a 501(c)(3) cor- meeting held last year in which Mayor of Roselle. They are being challenged “While emotions run high, it’s also im- poration. UNICO, which means unique Colleen Mahr had “promised to hold in the Primary by Carmen Southward portant to note that we get the funds to the or one of a kind in Italian, was founded in the line on spending,” saying munici- of Linden and Marlena Abitano of right organizations at the grass roots to 1922. UNICO has members in 131 chap- Westfield Sunday, April 5, Patrick Mitchell, provide direct help.” ters in 19 states, who work to support Monday, March 30, Michael Ross, 27, of Rahway was arrested and pal employees were then given a 3 Elizabeth, running under the slogan Mr. Biribin said UNICO is arranging charitable, educational, scientific and lit- percent raise the borough was not “Democrats for Tax Reductions,” and 27, of Scotch Plains was arrested at charged with eluding police after a to work with groups such as Catholic erary projects while promoting Italian the Middlesex County jail on four motor vehicle stop in which Mitchell obligated to give. Roselle candidates Harry O. Wyatt, Charities USA and Boys’ Town of Italy, heritage and combating negative stereo- “Not that they don’t deserve it, but Jr. and James E. Moore, Jr., who are outstanding Westfield contempt of allegedly refused to stop. He was trans- which provide humanitarian aid to se- typing. For more information, see court warrants totaling $1,140. He was ported to police headquarters where when people in town are hurting, you using the name “Roselle Independent niors, families and children in particular. unico.org. don’t increase spending you’re not Democrats.” committed on default of bail to the he was processed and released. Union County jail. Monday, April 6, Neeadak Allotey, obligated to,” Mr. Manduca said. Republican freeholder candidates Tuesday, March 31, Alexander 34, of Metuchen was arrested and Filing for Union County Freeholder are Garwood Councilman Anthony Liberman, 28, of Summit was arrested charged with possession of marijuana are Democratic incumbents Al Sytko, Nicole Cole of Fanwood and SP Zoning Board CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 on an outstanding Jersey City con- after a motor vehicle stop, at which Mirabella and Deborah Scanlon and Modesto Miranda, Jr. of Roselle Park. tempt of court warrant in the amount time officer smelled the odor of mari- their running mate Mohamed Jalloh County Surrogate James LaCorte of warranted, saying he had not heard Pastore had anything further to add to of $150 after a motor vehicle stop at juana. He was transported to police Elizabeth, a Democrat, is seeking re- any testimony about any “substantial buttress his case, Mr. Pastore said that East Broad Street and Stanley Avenue. headquarters where he was processed election against Republican Arthur volume” of delivery activity at Mr. he wanted to rescind his application. He was released after posting bail. and released. Zapolski of Roselle Park. Pastore’s house. He accused some of “I did not come here for this,” he told Tuesday, March 31, the owner of a Monday, April 6, a resident of Park Fanwood For State Assembly for District 22, his board colleagues of the board. “This is ridiculous. I feel clothing store on the 100 block of East Avenue reported that someone entered Democratic incumbents Linda “mischaracterizing” Mr. Pastore’s like I am on trial.” He said he did not Broad Street reported the theft of mer- his motor vehicle and removed his Stender of Fanwood and Jerry Green intentions, saying he would not be “need to be scrutinized every time a chandise in the amount of $2,430. GPS, valued at $100. Council of Plainfield are being challenged in operating a gun dealership out of his FedEx truck comes to my house” Tuesday, March 31, a resident of the Mountainside CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the Primary by Rick Smiley of home. because people think guns are being 800 block of Lenape Trail reported the Wednesday, April 1, Emmanuel C. Plainfield. Mr. Green, Frank Cuesta Mr. Livolsi cited the “risk of some- delivered. theft of jewelry valued at approxi- Hooper, 20, of Newark was arrested at Mahr, who also advised using an up- of Elizabeth and Chris Hudak of Lin- thing going wrong” with a weapon, After Mr. Pastore decided to go mately $15,000 from the home. The the Scotch Plains Police Department coming “energy audit” by PSE&G to den are running for the state Demo- especially nearby a school. forward with his application, a mo- theft occurred between February 13 on an outstanding warrant in the find additional ways to cut rising utili- cratic Committee. Mr. Anderson again said some tion to deny the TOP was defeated by and March 27. There were no signs of amount of $400. ties costs. Former Scotch Plains Mayor Mar- board members were a 4-3 vote, thus re-opening the hear- forced entry. Thursday, April 2, a resident of Wood In other business Tuesday night, tin Marks, an endodontist, and Will- “mischaracterizing what’s being ing. Board member Jim Pate, who Wednesday, April 1, Richard Green, Valley Road reported that someone the governing body discussed a pro- iam “Bo” Vastine, a businessman, asked for,” saying that Mr. Pastore had voted to approve the application, 34, of Jersey City was arrested on an damaged the windshield and the pas- posed resolution to formalize a Shared also of Scotch Plains, filed for the had “started out wanting to do paper- offered several conditions for ap- outstanding Jersey City contempt of senger side rear view mirror of his Services Committee, to consist of GOP. Mr. Marks ran for Congress in work in his house and that’s morphed proval, including those put forth by court warrant after a motor vehicle motor vehicle while it was parked in Mayor Mahr, council members Donna the Seventh Congressional District into a gun dealership.” the board of education. stop at Clark Street and Stanmore the street. The damage was done with Dolce and David Valian, and Bor- last year in the GOP Primary and for While admitting “it’s an emotional Mr. Loughlin, board attorney, again Place. He was released after posting a rock that was found at the scene. ough Clerk/Administrator Eleanor State Senate in 2003. Westfield coun- issue,” board chairman Jim Fawcett raised his concern about what the $180 bail. Friday, April 3, officers responded McGovern. cilman James Foerst and former free- said, “The fact is, he’s doing paper- federal license being sought by Mr. Wednesday, April 1, Harris Podvey, to a report of a distraught female juve- The borough also plans to apply for holder candidate Patricia Quattrocchi work. Other people have home of- Pastore entailed, and warned the board 43, of West Caldwell was arrested and nile at a Route 22 diner. According to a shared services grant and is prepar- of Garwood are running for the state fices and they do it quietly.” that certain federal provisions could charged with hindering apprehension police, the juvenile was crying hys- ing a response to a Union County Republican Committee, replacing But board member Rich Duthie potentially override local concerns as for allegedly failing to properly iden- terically and stated that she did not survey regarding potential shared ser- Robert Cockren of Westfield and said the “potential for error exists” far as firearms control is concerned. tify himself after being stopped for a have any recollection of how she got vices options. Elizabeth Cox of Summit. with potential weapons in a residen- Mr. Pate then aired his concern motor vehicle violation on the 200 to the diner. The individual stated that Suggestions from council members The neighboring District 21, cov- tial neighborhood. Board member about the vagaries raised by Mr. block of West South Avenue. Podvey the last thing she remembered was her included possibly centralizing police ering Westfield, Mountainside, Chris Abeel, calling the application Loughlin. On a new motion to ap- was issued a summons at Westfield father dropping her off at a theater in dispatching, sharing equipment and Cranford and Garwood, will see a “the most difficult TOP application” prove the TOP application, Mr. Abeel, police headquarters and released. Bayonne, at which time she met three vehicles where possible, traffic sig- four-candidate State Assembly Pri- in his 10 years on the board, said he Mr. Duthie and Mr. Livolsi again Wednesday, April 1, Jose Roman, male juveniles, authorities reported. nal maintenance and park services, mary. Following the sudden death of was not “sufficiently comfortable” voted against the application and, af- 38, of Woodbridge was arrested at She stated that one of the male juve- among others. Assemblyman Eric Munoz of Sum- with the idea and added, “There may ter a half-minute of consideration, Plainfield police headquarters on a niles gave her a soda and the next thing Borough Engineer Joseph Pryor mit, his widow, Nancy Munoz, filed be deliveries [to Mr. Pastore’s house]. Mr. Pate joined them as the fourth and Westfield contempt of court warrant she knew she was along the highway, reported that the Helen Street recon- to succeed her late husband. She will That’s not paperwork.” decisive vote denying Mr. Pastore’s in the amount of $500. He was held in police said. The incident is under in- struction project is scheduled for this run on the Union County GOP line When Mr. Fawcett asked if Mr. application. lieu of bail. vestigation. summer. with Assemblyman Jon Bramnick of Wednesday, April 1, Keith Ander- Sunday, April 5, a resident of Sun- Mr. Pryor also advised that the Westfield. They are challenged by Union Chimes in on son, 41, of Plainfield was arrested at rise Parkway reported that two black heavily used softball field at LaGrande Long Hill Township Mayor George Plainfield police headquarters on out- males were walking around the rear of Park is in need of maintenance, par- Vitureira and Long Hill Board of Edu- Westfield School Budget standing contempt of court warrants her property. According to police, one ticularly in the outfield area. Mr. Pryor cation member Bruce Meringolo. from Westfield and Newark, in the appeared to be looking for something CHRISTINA M. HINKE and other borough officials pointed Democrats that filed are Norman Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times superintendent. I saw the writing on the amounts of $500 and $125, respec- on the ground as the other was seen out that the full schedule of sports Albert of Cranford, an assistant coun- wall when it got as bad as it did. We made tively. He was processed and commit- urinating on a tree. The homeowner practices and games does not leave sel for the County of Union, and WESTFIELD – “There was never a suggestions in ways to cut costs,” she ted on default of bail to the Union called out to the men and they fled the enough time for fieldwork. Springfield resident and township guarantee that a giveback could save a said. County jail on both warrants. scene, police said. A search of the area “It doesn’t sound like it was on program,” said Kim Schumacher, presi- Her association helped devise the en- attorney Bruce Bergen. Both candi- dent of the Westfield Education Associa- ergy savings plan that Westfield schools Wednesday, April 1, Joi by the homeowner produced a small anybody’s radar to do the mainte- dates ran for the Assembly in 2007. tion (WEA), the union for the 541 teach- put in place recently. “We have been Blassingame, 28, of Linden was ar- ziplock bag that contained suspected nance,” Mayor Mahr said. “We spent Gov. Jon Corzine is challenged by ers, nurses, child study team workers, and saving hundreds of thousands of dollars,” rested on an outstanding Elizabeth marijuana, officers reported. The CDS way too much money and way too Democrats Roger Bacon of librarians in the Westfield Public School she said. “That’s one of the biggest ones contempt of court warrant on the 500 was bagged and placed into evidence much time [to build the field]; some- Phillipsburg, former Glen Ridge System. In addition, given that Superin- from a complete association standpoint.” block of West South Avenue. She was pending destruction. where we have to stop the cycle [of Mayor Carl Bergmanson and Jeff tendent of Schools Margaret Dolan could When she met with the superintendent processed and released after posting Fanwood practices and games] and let the field Boss of Guttenberg in the Primary. not guarantee the school budget tax levy and discussed the layoffs, she said, “I was $100 bail. Wednesday, April 1, Mike Roberson, breathe or we’re not going to have a Mr. Bergmanson led an effort last would pass, Ms. Schumacher said the very clear that it just can’t be teachers — Thursday, April 2, after being 43, of Plainfield was arrested after a field.” year to have Mr. Corzine recalled. WEA could not agree to any givebacks it has to be district-wide.” She said the stopped for a motor vehicle violation motor vehicle stop on Terrill Road on Mayor Mahr said maintenance and follow in the footsteps of the admin- superintendent agreed. on the 200 block of Springfield Av- an outstanding warrant out of Harrison. On the Republican side, former istration that gave back what equates to When asked if other options were put might have to wait until this fall, United States Attorney Chris Christie one day’s pay. on the table to save jobs, such as salary enue, William Devine, 37, of West He was processed and released after since spring sports have already of Mendham will face off against Ms. Schumacher’s biggest fear was cuts, she responded, “They [superinten- Orange was arrested on an outstand- posting bail. started. She said the borough’s future former Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan, losing programs that affect the students. dent] did not discuss salary cuts.” ing Clark contempt of court warrant in Thursday, April 2, a business owner decisions on when to schedule start- State Assemblyman Rick Merkt (LD- “When we eliminate counselors, we’re The WEA contract expires June 30, the amount of $165 and also was on the 200 block of North Avenue and end-dates for sports seasons will 25, Mendham), and South Brunswick hurting kids; when we eliminate foreign 2010. Westfield has one of the highest charged with possession of less than reported that someone did approxi- take field maintenance into account. businessman Dave Brown. languages, we’re hurting kids,” said Ms. teaching starting salary rates in the state, 50 grams of suspected marijuana and mately $10 worth of damage to a flag- Schumacher, also a guidance counselor currently at $55,149 for a teacher holding possession of drug paraphernalia. pole on his property by knocking it at Roosevelt Intermediate School. a bachelor’s degree and $57,949 for a Devine posted bail on the warrant and down. Superintendent Dolan met with the master’s degree. Next year that shifts to was released on his own recognizance Thursday, April 2, Thomas Drexler, “presidents of the local associations a $57,289 and $60,059, respectively. on the Westfield charges. 57, of Bridgewater was arrested after few weeks back to talk about difficul- Ms. Schumacher said, “We have one of ties with the budget,” Ms. Schumacher the lowest increases per year. We have Saturday, April 4, Earlisha Green, a motor vehicle stop on South Avenue said. On March 31, the board of educa- come in under 4 percent each year. We are 21, of Plainfield was arrested on an on an outstanding Raritan Borough tion introduced an $89.5-million bud- not jumping astronomically in contract outstanding Irvington contempt of warrant. He was processed and re- get that will realize about 23 layoffs and negotiations. We come in below state court warrant in the amount of $165 leased after posting bail. a reduction of 48 stipend positions, while average.” after a motor vehicle stop in the area of Saturday, April 4, a resident on the at the same time student enrollment has The school budget proposed also elimi- the 300 block of South Avenue in 50 block of Glenwood Road reported increased. nated custodial, paraprofessional, secre- Garwood. She was released after post- that sometime overnight someone Ms. Schumacher blamed Westfield’s tarial and computer technician staff and ing bail. broke the front window of her resi- budget problems on the state formula. realigned the information technology di- Saturday, April 4, Brandon R. Bond, dence with an unknown object. “They (the state) look at towns like rector and supervisor and special services 22, of Newark was arrested at Westfield Saturday, April 4, a resident reported Westfield and think we are wealthy by coordinator positions, which are not part [looking at] house values and what we of the WEA. police headquarters on outstanding that he left his motor vehicle parked in make and, so, they feel like we don’t need Voters will be asked to cast their bal- contempt of court warrants from Union the South Avenue train station lot over- as much aid as other towns do,” she said. lots on the budget on Tuesday, April 21, and Cranford, in the amounts of $275 night and that someone smashed the Westfield’s cost-per-pupil is lower than as well as elect board of education mem- and $250, respectively. He was re- driver’s side window. Nothing was the state’s average, but, she said, “the bers. Polls are open in Westfield from 7 leased after posting $525 total bail. reported missing at this time, officers state does not look at that.” a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, April 5, Silvia C. Lisa, 26, said. “There still are people who are going to of Elizabeth was arrested at the Saturday, April 4, Dennis Rowland, lose their jobs, which is unfortunate,” she See it all on the web in color . . . Westfield northside train station on a 19, of Newark was arrested on an said. www.goleader.com Roselle contempt of court warrant in active Newark warrant after a motor “I meet every single Tuesday with the the amount of $165. She was trans- vehicle stop on Terrill Road. He was ported to Westfield police headquar- processed and released after posting ters, processed and released after post- bail. ing bail. Scotch Plains Save even more than before with Allstate. Thursday, April 2, Akhirah Trent, SP-F BOE to Present 33, of Hillside was arrested and charged with providing false informa- 2009-2010 Budget Drivers who switched to Allstate saved an tion to officers after a motor vehicle SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD average of $353 a year. So when you’re stop. She was transported to police — Members of the Scotch Plains- shopping for car insurance, call me first. You headquarters where she was processed Fanwood Board of Education, who and released. have already presented a series of could be surprised by how much you’ll save. Thursday, April 2, a resident of budget discussions at schools through- Martine Avenue reported that some- out the community during the month NELSON C. ESPELAND, LUTCF one caused approximately $75 worth of March, have announced plans to (908) 233 6300 of damage to her mailbox. hold two special budget presentations Friday, April 3, police investigated at the local municipal libraries. a motor vehicle parked legally on Wil- Board members will review the low Street that was struck by a vehicle 2009-2010 school budget at the that fled the scene, causing damage to Scotch Plains Library on Wednesday, the rear of the vehicle. The Espeland Group April 15, at 9:30 a.m. They will give Sunday, April 5, Brandan Butler, a second budget presentation on Sat- SCOTCH PLAINS Greg Ryan for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times 25, of Plainfield was arrested and [email protected] urday, April 18, at 9:30 a.m. at the GOLD ANNIVERSARY...The Occupational Center of Union County in Roselle charged with possession of a controlled Fanwood Memorial Library. celebrated its 50th anniversary on Tuesday. The center offers individualized dangerous substance (CDS) after a training leading to long-term employment for people with disabilities in the job All interested citizens are welcome motor vehicle stop. He was transported to attend these informational meet- Annual savings based on information reported nationally by new Allstate auto customers for policies written in 2007. market or in the on-site industrial work center in Roselle, shown above. President Actual savings will vary. Mark Lasky and Chairman of the Board Charles Walter welcomed several area to police headquarters where he was ings in preparation for the annual Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Bridgewater, NJ. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company dignitaries to the event. For more information, see occupationalcenter.org. processed and released. school election on Tuesday, April 21. goleader online supplement We’ll Help Your Business The Westfield Leader www.goleader.com [email protected] (908) 232-4407
Get Back On Track Continue to the next page ==> Page 2 Thursday, April 9, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Candidate Release Mullen for SP Council Freeholders to Oppose Cuts Theresa Mullen to Run For Scotch Plains Council In Psychiatric Funding SCOTCH PLAINS — Theresa the Township Council and how I in- By PAUL J. PEYTON eliminate the requirement for coun- Mullen, Democrat candidate for town- tend to do that job. In a way I see this Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times ties to continue to mail sample elec- ship council, said, “I would welcome election as a job interview and it will ELIZABETH – The Board of Cho- tion ballots to voters for ballots that the opportunity to serve on the Scotch be the voters of Scotch Plains who sen Freeholders is expected to for- could not be delivered by the U.S. Plains Township Council. I believe a will decide who is hired.” mally go on record tonight in support Postal Service. member of the Township Council has Ms. Mullen is actively involved in of a resolution by the New Jersey Dennis Kobitz, administrator for an obligation to the people of Scotch sports. She plays in two softball Association of Counties (NJAC) op- the Union County Board of Elec- Plains to make every possible effort leagues, coaches her children in bas- posing proposed cuts in state funding tions, told the freeholders that the to keep taxes and expenditures to a ketball, is a coach/player for the Union to counties for the maintenance of legislation, if it were to become law, minimum, especially during this eco- County Bar Association Softball team patients in psychiatric facilities. would save Union County $15,000 nomic downturn. and co-chairs its golf outing. She has Union County maintains 20 beds at per county-wide election for the Gen- “During this campaign I will speak also registered to participate in her TOP ACHIEVERS…Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), center, poses with its Cornerstone program at Runnells eral, Primary and school board elec- about how I see the job of member of first triathlon in September. Westfield Y Black Achievers at the 11th Annual Black Achievers Fundraising and Specialized Hospital in Berkeley tions. Recognition Banquet at L’Affaire in Mountainside on Friday, March 20. The Ms. Mullen has served as a member banquet raises scholarship sund. The Connell Co. presented a $10,000 check. Heights. He said that, under current law, the Economic Summit of the Scotch Plains Memorial Day Director of Finance Larry Caroselli county is required to continue mail- Committee for the past three years and said the cuts, estimated at $6 million ing sample ballots to voters for four Slated for April 17 looks forward to assuming a more statewide, would not impact calendar consecutive years unless information WESTFIELD – The Westtfield active role in Scotch Plains Township. Summit Common Council year 2009 county budgets, but would has been received that the voter is no Area Chamber of Commerce will hold Ms. Mullen has been a trial lawyer impact next year’s spending plans. longer at the address. an Economic Summit on Friday, April in New Jersey for 15 years and has He said information is currently not Under questioning from Freeholder 17, from 10 a.m. to noon. The local served on the District XII Ethics Com- Unveils $45 Mil. Budget available on what funding cuts Union Deborah Scanlon, Mr. Kobitz ex- community is invited to this New mittee. She is Vice-President of the By LAUREN S. BARR ing budget allows the city to make County could face. plained that when a resident receives Jersey Economic Summit at James Union County Bar Association and is Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times pension payments, which incur a pen- According to a resolution from a ballot for someone who no longer Ward Mansion 169 East Broad Street presently the Co-Chair of the Union SUMMIT – The Summit Common alty if paid late. NJAC obtained by The Westfield resides at the address, they should in Westfield. County Bar Association Civil Prac- Council introduced its 2009 budget The council also introduced the Leader and The Scotch Plains- mail the ballot back to the Board of Opening speaker will be James tice Committee. Ms. Mullen was and had the first reading of an ordi- downtown Summit Special Improve- Fanwood Times, the state has “his- Elections. When that occurs, he said, Hughes, fean of Edward S. Bloustein named by the New Jersey Law Jour- nance allowing for redevelopment along ment District’s budget totaling torically” paid 90 percent of the costs the county updates its records. School of Planning and Public Policy nal as one of the leaders in the State of Broad Street at Tuesday’s meeting. $220,176, the same as last year. Public for maintaining patients in psychiat- The legislation, A-4314, sponsored at Rutgers University. Sen. Tom Kean, New Jersey among women and mi- The council is made up of three hearings for both budgets will be held ric facilities, while the counties have by Assemblyman Joseph Cryan (LD- Jr. and Assm. Jon Bramnick (both LD- nority lawyers in 2003. She was also representatives from each of the two on Tuesday, May 5. paid 10 percent. Last year the state 20, Union), was passed 79-0 on March 21, Westfield) and Rep. Leonard Lance the first woman president of the Arthur wards elected for three years each, and The council also introduced an ordi- reduced that payment to 87.5 per- 16 by the Assembly. The bill would (R-7th, Union) will be panelists. T. Vanderbilt Inn of Court. one at large member, elected for two nance creating Gateway II along Broad cent, hiking counties’ payments to eliminate the requirement to mail Westfield Mayor Andy Skibitsky will Ms. Mullen and her husband, Scott years. The mayor is elected for a four- Street, encompassing 5.1 acres includ- 12.5 percent. The Fiscal Year 2009- ballots to voters who have not re- lead the discussion. The panel will Phillips, will be married nine years in year term, and appoints the members of ing where Salerno Duane is currently 2010 state budget has the state re- sponded to notices attempting to con- weigh in on what the current eco- May and have three children, Brian, 7, the school board. located. Buildings and Grounds Com- ducing its share to 85 percent with firm their current residence. nomic situation means to the state and Sydney, 5, and Kaitlyn, 3. Her hus- The $45-million 2009 municipal mittee Chairman and Second Ward counties paying 15 percent of the “We’ve asked all 21 counties to have local business economy. band is the captain of the Kenilworth budget represents an approximately $4- Councilman Dave Bomgaars said that costs. resolutions put on (their freeholder Visit westfieldareachamber.com. or Police Department and has served on million increase over last year. Finance there is no developer behind the ordi- “The imposition of this additional board agendas),” Mr. Kobitz said. call (908) 233-3021 to register. the force for over 30 years. Chairman Second Ward Councilman J. nance and that the process was com- cost burden upon county governments The legislation was referred to the Andrew Lark said homeowners would pleted with the city planner, the prop- will result in several million dollars Senate State Government Commit- For more information, see our website www.rosellegolfclub.com see a 3-percent increase in the munici- erty owner and the board. of lost revenue, which will ultimately tee, which is chaired by Senator Nick pal portion of their property taxes. He said that the city wants to rede- be borne by the local property tax- Scutari, (LD-22, Linden), a former Roselle Golf Club, Your New Home for 2009 Councilman Lark stated that the city velop the area to offer an, “appealing payer,” according to the NJAC reso- Union County freeholder. would not defer its contribution to the entrance” to downtown and “a more lution. Mr. Kobitz requested approval of Union County Golfers: state pension system as it, “feels like a friendly transit neighborhood.” The NJAC said it “strongly opposes the four contracts totaling $158,000 for Roselle Golf Club, Your New Home for 2009 gimmick.” The state is allowing towns current plan calls for a total of 128 provision contained in the proposed transporting voting machines from Union County Golfers. Has the closing of Oak Ridge left you feeling “sub par?” Has the closing ofRoselle Oak G.C.Ridge is OPEN left foryou our feeling 92nd year! to defer its pension contribution for residential units, with self-contained Fiscal Year 2009-10 state budget to polling locations county-wide for “sub par?” Membership opportunities starting at only $1,800. 2009 to help ease budget constraints. underground parking. Twenty-six of reduce funding to New Jersey’s 2009 elections, as well as for the No greens fees, no mandatory carts, and no 5 hour rounds! The money would have to be paid back those units would be affordable hous- county governments for the mainte- printing of poll and voting authority Roselle G.C. is OPENJust a friendly, for our private 92nd golf year! club experience. over 10 years at an interest rate of 8.5 ing to meet the city’s Council on Af- nance of patients in state and county books and other printing needed for percent. He said that this year is the last fordable Housing (COAH) obligation. psychiatric facilities an additional 2.5 this year’s elections. Membership opportunitieswww.rosellegolfclub.com start at only $1,800. year Summit will pay off previous de- Under the current COAH guidelines, percent.” No greens fees, no mandatory carts, and no 5 ferments that were made. towns must provide one affordable unit The county received $7,791,753 in Wildlife Sunday, April 19, hourThe Boardrounds! of Roselle Golf Club and its members look forward to hearing from golfers Councilman Thomas Getzendanner for every four that are constructed. state funding for psychiatric patients interested in joining our club. was critical of the city authorization of Councilman Getzendanner sug- last year and anticipates $7,239,885 At Trailside Center temporary appropriations of over $2 gested to decrease the size of the units Just a friendly, privateWe can golf be contactedclub experience. at: (908) 245-7175 this year, according to a copy of the MOUNTAINSIDE – The 19th an- for operating expenses and voted against to discourage families with children 2009 Union County budget. nual Wildlife Sunday family event Joe Zanko, Membership Chairman (908) 403-0964 it. He said that he felt the city should from moving in and thus increase the The freeholders are also set to go will be Sunday, April 19, from noon have more advanced planning for bud- number of affordable housing units. on record in opposing the elimination to 5 p.m. at Trailside Nature and Sci- Email: [email protected] get needs. Second Ward Councilman Council members and a member of of $1.4 million in state funding set ence Center in Mountainside. Michael Vernotico said that the council the public questioned whether the lan- forth by the New Jersey Department Author Marty Essen will present a Roselle Golf Club is located at 417 Raritan Rd, Roselle, NJ 07203 works on the budget all the time. guage used in the ordinance met with of Children and Families Commis- digital slide show, “Around the World Ronald Angelo, the city’s chief fi- the planning board’s approval. After sioner Kimberly Ricketts. The money in 90 Minutes,” featuring facts, stories, nancial officer, stated that if the tempo- much discussion it was decided that the supports the County Human Services and the best of thousands of photos he rary appropriations were not made they ordinance would be returned to the Advisory Council (CHSAC). took while traveling the world for his would have to “shut down town hall” planning board for a consistency hear- The Union County Board of Cho- book, “Cool Creatures, Hot Planet: because it includes money for salaries. ing. A public hearing on the ordinance sen Freeholders are expected to vote Exploring the Seven Continents.” Show 417 Raritan Rd, Roselle, NJ 07203 - (908) 245-7175 He also said that the temporary operat- will take place on Tuesday, May 5. tonight on state legislation that would times are 12:30 and 3:15 p.m. Vinnie Reo of Wolf Visions will dispel the myths and legends of the “Big, Bad Wolf” with his presentation, “The Way of the Wolf,” at 2:15 p.m. Sonya Kaloyanides of South Moun- tain Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will explain the training required to become a wildlife rehabilitator and the work they do in helping injured and orphaned wildlife at 1:15 and 3:30 p.m. Budding herpetologists can learn 42¢ about snakes and turtles native to New Jersey from a Trailside Park naturalist between 1 and 4 p.m. Also featured will be a guided nature walk, We’ll mail 7,000 copies of your article for 2¢ apiece a bird-watching walk, children’s crafts, face painting and casting con- www.goleader.com/express tests with the Newark Bait and Fly Casting Club. Admission to Wildlife Sunday is The Westfield Leader and The Times $3 per person; children ages 6 and Slips & Falls younger are admitted free. Motor Vehicle Accidents Defective Products & Machines Head & Brain Injuries Construction Accidents Wrongful Death Job Related Injuries Serious Burns & Scars Nursing Home Abuse ǯ, function, and health are our responsibility.
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Good at Westfield ShopRite Wines & Spirits only. who already face one of the highest Effective Wed., April 8 thru Tues., April 14, 2009. costs of living in the nation – espe- de Parma di Pienza D’ Allevo Dipped Pretzels cially through skyrocketing income ONE FULL Super Coupon and property taxes.” 99 99 99 POUND! 99 “My constituents are not ‘super rich.’ REG. REG. REG. REG. All Shoppers Must Present This Coupon To Receive Discount lb. 15.99 lb. lb. 26.99 lb. lb. 16.99 lb. lb. 19.99 lb. They are hard-working, middle-class 12 19 12 14 750 ML-KOSHER FOR PASSOVER families facing some of the highest taxes in the country,” Mr. Lance said. PERFECT FOR THE HOLIDAYS... Bartenura 99 “The mortgage tax deduction allows SAVE New Jersey’s homeowners to keep Moscato 1.00 10 more of what they earn. It makes abso- Gift Baskets for any Occasion With this coupon. Good at Westfield ShopRite Wines & Spirits only. lutely no sense to propose raising taxes Effective Wed., April 8 thru Tues., April 14, 2009. on homeowners and homebuyers at a time of economic crisis.” According to the National Asso- California Napa Valley California Italy ciation of Realtors, more than 173,000 Germany New Jersey tax filers earn enough to Markham Robert Kim Mark West Ruffino be adversely affected by the proposed Erben cut — the fifth highest total in the Cabernet Mondavi Crawford Pinot Noir Riserva Ducale Riesling nation. Sauvignon 2007 Gold 2004 Chardonnay Sauvignon 2007 The New Jersey Association of Re- 2005 2006 Blanc 2008 Intense color. Enticing A very classic Chianti Smooth and integrated, aromas of red raspberry Classico bouquet with Its delicious crispness, altors (NJAR) President Diane Dilzell notes of violets, cherries, this gentle claret has Enticing aromas and Concentrated and very pie and cola berry inter- full of floral apple and supported Rep. Lance’s efforts. twined with barrel plums and inviting spicy plenty of clean, fresh richly textured intense, weaving sensations. It is elegant tart lime flavors, has “In a costly state like New Jersey, fruit. Its blueberry and together a harmonious notes of candied vanilla been achieved using flavors of apple, and a hint of smoke. and lush, inviting yet currant flavors meld medley of crushed subtle. Well-integrated the most modern wine limiting the amount of mortgage in- citrus, mineral and Oak aging rounds out with chocolatey stone, grapefruit and in the structure and making expertise and terest a family can deduct from their tannins, not particularly spice. Rich fruit the palate and gives the tannins are impressive, intensity on palate. nut flavors. Savory wine its rich texture. New World techniques. long in flavor, but herbs, grass and lime yet round and soft. Serve chilled to taxes will have a significant negative satisfying, especially Creamy vanilla Smooth and supple The aftertaste is very notes highlight the accompany chicken, impact on housing recovery efforts with most anything on nuances linger on from the beginning, yet long and reminiscent of a steakhouse menu. bright, vibrant finish. with enough fruit to violets, nutmeg, plums fish, cheese or enjoy and limit many people’s ability to the finish. Drink now. give it a solid backbone. and sweet tobacco. on its own. enter the housing market,” Mr. Dilzell said. 99 99 W.S. 99 99 99 99 750 750 750 750 750 Mr. Lance said he will offer his ML 91 750 19 14 ML 13 ML 10 ML 29 ML 9 ML measure today before the House Rules Committee. The Rules Committee is responsible for governing the rules of Sutter Yellow Toasted debate on the floor of Congress. 20%20% OFFOFF Home Tail Head County Holding Talk ANY BTL., SIZE OR TYPE OF ALL TYPES •CABERNET •MERLOT White Zinfandel (EXCEPT RESERVES) •CHARDONNAY On Foreclosure Our Passover ELIZABETH — The County of 99 99 99 Union is inviting the public to attend a 750 750 750 free forum to discuss foreclosure and 3 ML 6 ML 10 ML other community issues on Wednes- Kosher Wine day, April 15, from noon to 2 p.m. The •CABERNET •MERLOT •SHIRAZ •WHITE ZINFANDEL •CHARD •RIESLING event is part of a nationwide celebra- Selections Woodbridge •PINOT GRIGIO 99 99 •PINOT NOIR •ZIN tion of the federal Community Devel- 1.5 L opment Block Grant program. by Robert Mondavi •SAUV. BLANC 11 9 1.5 L The event includes a presentation Including Yarden, of recent community development Baron Herzog, Smoking Rutherford successes, funded through Union Trapiche Viña San Red County, by the Block Grant program. Keden, Weinstock ALL Esteban Loon Rock Hill & Manischewitz There is no charge but pre-registra- VARIETALS ALL TYPES EXCL. PINOT NOIR MERLOT MERLOT tion is required by calling the Union County Department of Parks and Com- Excludes advertised 99 99 PINOT 99 99 99 sale items and 750 750 NOIR 750 750 750 munity Renewal, Bureau of Housing 7 ML 6 ML 99 ML ML ML 0 8 10 in-store specials. 75 15 at (908) 527-4229 by April 8. The 9 ML event will be held at the John T. Opici Gregorio Towers, 1425 Dill Avenue Gekkeikan 99 Santa HOMEMADE 99 SAKE 91.5 L in Linden. It includes exhibits and Renwood Beringer BARBERONE 13 4 L foreclosure information provided by Sierra 99 Napa 99 Margherita 99 Little Penguin Minini 750 750 750 ALL TYPES 99 •PINOT GRIGIO 99 Brand New Day, Faith Bricks and Zinfandel Pinot Noir Pinot Grigio ML Mortar, Urban League of Union 9 ML 17 ML 19 10 1.5 L •MONTEPULCIANO 10 1.5 L County and other non-profit organi- Ruffino Cavit B.V. Rutherford Beringer Santa Marvista zations in Union County that receive WHITE ZINFANDEL 99 Reserva 1.5 L Block Grant funding. Chianti Riserva Pinot Grigio Cabernet 9 •CABERNET •MERLOT 99 •CHARDONNAY 71.5 L The featured speaker is Diane Ducale 99 And All 99 99 Barefoot Cellars 750 99 Johnson, Newark Field Office direc- Tan Label 750 Other Types 1.5 L ALL TYPES 21 ML 12 24 ML 91.5 L Arbor Mist 99 tor of the U.S. Department of Hous- ALL TYPES 61.5 L ing and Urban Development. KOSHER WINES The Community Development SPARKLING WINES Inglenook Oak Creek BARTENURA 99 Bay Bridge Franzia Block Grant program provides federal & CHAMPAGNES ALL ALL 5L BOXES •CASK •CLASSIC 99 99 MOSCATO 11 750 •PROPRIETOR SERIES 3 L grants to local governments for neigh- ALL 750 ML TYPES 3 750 ML 99 7 ML ALL TYPES 4 750 •OLD WORLD borhood improvements. Union County Veuve Clicquot MANISCHEWITZ ML CLASSICS Don Simon 99 CASE OF 12 99 •FIRST CRUSH administers the program for 19 of its BRUT 99 CONCORD GRAPE 750 CASE OF 12 SANGRIA 61.5 L YELLOW LABEL CHAMPAGNE SAME TYPE 750 3 ML 99 39 ML SAME TYPE 750 21 municipalities. Elizabeth and Union 49 ML 99 administer their own programs. 99 DESSERT WINES 12 39 Clos du Bois HOUSE WINE 99 Mondavi SONOMA ALL 750 MLS Di Lupo ALL 750 ML FAVORITES Learn How To Plant A Moet & Chandon 99 99 Sandeman 10 •PINOT NOIR ...... 15 •ALTO ADIGE 99 IMPERIAL NV 33 Ports ALL 750 MLS. VINTNER Family Tree at Williams •CABERNET•MERLOT PINOT GRIGIO...... 12 99 Napa 99 SELECT 13 WESTFIELD – Families looking to Domaine Chandon •ZINFANDEL ...... 13 FOUNDERS •FINE RUBY 99 ALL 750 MLS. •BRUT 99 •SAUV. BLANC •CHARD RESERVE •FINE TAWNY •CHIANTI D.O.C.G...... celebrate Arbor Day can attend a tree- •BLANC DE NOIR 14 99 99 99 7 99 planting workshop at Williams Nurs- •PINOT GRIGIO . . . . .11 14 11 •Cabernet ...... 19 Villa Malena 99 ALL Markham 99 ery in Westfield, hosted by the Rutgers ALL 750 MLS. PROSECCO 10 Louis Jadot Erben 99 Erben 750 MLS. •Pinot Noir ...... 17 Cooperative Extension 4-H Program. ALL 750 MLS EISWEIN 375 99 Merlot 99 99 Korbel 99 29 ML •Auslese ...... 15 The workshop is scheduled for 99 •Pouilly Fuisse ...... 18 15 •Merlot ...... 15 BRUT, X-DRY, BRUT ROSE Havey’s 99 Saturday, April 18, from 10 to 11 a.m. 10 99 •Spatlese ...... 10 Chardonnay 99 99 The cost per family is $35, which •Macon Villages ...... 10 Bristol Cream 13 •Chardonnay . . . .14 Nando 99 SHERRY •Kabinett •Pinot Noir includes a six-foot pink flowering 99 99 99 Sauvignon 99 ASTI 7 •Beaujolais Villages . . . . .9 750 •Riesling ...... 9 99 •Fume Blanc . . . . . crabapple tree in a container (retail 11 ML Blanc 10 13 value $50), along with tips on plant- ing and caring for a tree so it grows healthfully. Pre-registration is re- Dewar’s Ketel Jack Tanqueray Kahlua quired by April 10, by contacting 4-H One Daniel’s Gin COFFEE Agent James Nichnadowicz at (908) White Label LIQUEUR 654-9854, ext. 2236, or REGULAR OR CITROEN [email protected]. 99 99 99 99 99 EPA Admin. to Speak 301.75 L 371.75 L 38 1.75 L 34 1.75 L 17 750 ML At Kean Graduation RUM BLENDED Red Bull IRISH CORDIALS UNION – United States Environ- REGULAR OR SUGAR FREE •Baileys Bacardi Seagram’s 4 PK., 8.3-OZ. CANS Jameson mental Protection Agency (EPA) LIGHT, GOLD OR SELECT Irish Cream Administrator Lisa Jackson will de- 7 Crown Irish Whiskey •Di Saronno liver the keynote address at Kean 99 99 99 99 •Romana University’s undergraduate com- 20 1.75 L 171.75 L 6 40 1.75 L Sambuca mencement ceremonies on Thursday, Capt. REG. OR BLACK May 14, at 9:30 a.m. at the PNC Bank Morgan 99 CANADIAN VODKA GIN SPICED RUM 24 1.75 L Your 99 Arts Center in Holmdel. 750 Crown Gilbey’s 99 Choice! 20 ML 99 14 1.75 L More than 2,300 undergraduate stu- Cross Keys 99 Royal 750 Belvedere 22 ML dents will receive degrees. As head of 3 YR. OLD AGED 19 750 •Pama Pomegranate (750 ML) ML Canadian Bowman’s 99 the EPA, Ms. Jackson oversees a staff Ron 99 Vodka 11 1.75 L •Patron XO Café (750 ML) Pontalba 99 L.T.D 12 1.75 L Is At Our of approximately 18,000. She is the •Starbuck’s (750 ML) LIGHT OR DARK 14 1.75 L TEQUILA first African-American to serve as COGNAC & BRANDY 99 COFFEE OR CREAM LIQUEUR 750 Los Trejos EPA administrator. 28 ML •Stock Limonce BeerBeer Everyday Fransac Extra 99 100% BLUE AGAVE LIMONCELLO (1L) Ms. Jackson, who now resides in Glenlivet 25 YR. OLD COGNAC 750 99 99 LOW DISCOUNTED ALL 750 ML 39 ML SILVER AÑEJO Your Exact 241.75 L Choice! Washington, D.C., and East Windsor, 99 99 19 PRICES! is former chief of staff to New Jersey 99 E&J 99 99 750 750 •NADURRA 51 BRANDY 18 1.75 L Iceberg 19 1.75 L 29 ML 34 ML 99 We Carry the Largest Selection Governor Jon Corzine and also served Cointreau 34 1 L of Imported & Domestic Beer: •FRENCH OAK 99 COGNACS 99 José Diego 99 750 MLS as commissioner of the state’s De- 15 YR. OLD. 42 De Laroche Wolfschmidt 14 1.75 L GOLD OR SILVER 241.75 L MORE THAN ANYONE ELSE VS XO partment of Environmental Protec- •SINGLE MALT 99 VSOP Grand 99 99 99 99 Tijuana 99 99 IN NEW JERSEY! 12 YR. OLD. 34 Bowman’s 1.75 L Marnier 750 tion (DEP). 19 24 49 11 Gold 19 1.75 L 30 ML Prior to joining the DEP, Ms. Jack- For the address of the store nearest to you please call... 1-800-SHOPRITE Discounts Mixed Mixed ALL STORES MOST STORES ACCEPT: son worked for 16 years for the fed- Prices established by ShopRite Wines & Spirits of Westfield, N.J., (908) 232-8700 ShopRite WINES & SPIRITS STORES ARE INDIVIDUALLY OWNED AND OPERATED AND NOT A CHAIN. PRICES AND PRODUCTS FEATURED MAY NOT Available On: Cases Cases BE AVAILABLE AT ALL AFFILIATED STORES. Prices effective Sunday, April 5 thru Tuesday, April 14, 2009. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Artwork does not necessarily of Wine of Spirits Debit (EXCLUDING SALE ITEMS) OPEN SUN. ® eral government. represent items on sale. It is for display purposes only. Not responsible for typographical errors. In the event of errors, the lowest price allowed by N.J. State Law will apply. All cases sold containing single type only. Card Page 4 Thursday, April 9, 2009 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION ABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ The Scotch Plains–Fanwood Community Commentary The Westfield Leader Deferring Pension Contributions; — Established 1890 — Times Since 1959 A Poor Idea, Part 2 DD Legal Newspaper for the Town of Westfield, Legal Newspaper for the Borough of Fanwood DTM Boroughs of Mountainside and Garwood And the Township of Scotch Plains D Diction Deception And the County of Union, NJ. by Garland C. "Bud" Boothe, Jr. Members of: Former Westfield Mayor, 1992-1996 Below are four arcane words, each New Jersey Press Association • National Newspaper Association • Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce Last time, I criticized as hard, effec- nothing to say about it either. And this with four definitions – only one is correct. Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association • Fanwood Business & Professional Association tively and clearly as I could the concept of would be made abundantly clear in the The others are made up. Are you sharp Periodicals – Postage Paid at Westfield, New Jersey Periodicals – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, New Jersey giving municipalities, school boards and paperwork that would be executed. enough to discern this deception of dic- tion? P.O. Box 250 • 251 North Avenue, West P. O. Box 368 counties the option to defer half of what When the property changes hands – by they would otherwise have to pay over to sale or by foreclosure of an unpaid mort- If you can guess one correctly – good Westfield, N.J. 07091 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 the state pension fund for the current and gage or other unpaid taxes – all that has guess. If you get two – well-read indi- Tele: (908) 232-4407 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.goleader.com • Fax: (908) 232-0473 two future years until in the future. On been deferred must be repaid out of the vidual. If you get three – word expert. If POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at fairness and good accounting and com- proceeds. If a bank or purchaser takes you get all four – You must have a lot of free time! P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091 mon sense, this proposal fails. over a property at sheriff’s sale, the sher- Nevertheless, I cannot ignore the effect iff cannot deliver a deed in foreclosure All words and correct definitions Published every Thursday by Watchung Communications, Inc. of continuing heavy property taxes now, until the deferred pension deferral come from the board game Diction Deception. Paul Peyton Horace R. Corbin Jeff Gruman caused in part by the burden of currently amounts, and any other unpaid municipal required pension payments into the fund, taxes and assessments, are paid in full. If Answers to last week’s arcane words. ASSIGNMENT EDITOR PUBLISHER SALES MANAGER let alone making up for payments that this does not happen, the municipality Suzette F. Stalker David B. Corbin Michael L. Bartiromo 1. Tincal – Crude borax should have been but for political reasons gets the property by tax foreclosure and 2. Rostrulum – A small beak, as of an COMMUNITY ASSISTANT PUBLISHER & SPORTS MARKETING PRODUCTION were not made in the past decade. can dispose of it free and clear. (A lot of insect Michael Pollack Karen M. Hinds Robert P. Connelly First, what are we talking about? We Westfield property, today’s housing and 3. Tocher – The dowry of a bride EDUCATION & ARTS OFFICE MANAGER MARKETING & OPERATIONS Westfield taxpayers paid $22 million of parks, went that way during the 1930s). 4. Biga – In ancient Rome, a chariot Ben Corbin the town’s 2008 budget, about 58 percent, Where does the money come from for drawn by two horses SERVICES SUBSCRIPTION PRICE www.goleader.com/subscribe and we got billed for pensions almost cash flow back to the municipality for it $2.2 million, or 10 percent of what we and the other public agencies? The state ATAZIR One-year – $28 • Two-year – $52 • Three-year – $76 • One-year college (September to May) – $20 pay. Deferring half of this would “save” should create a new special fund for this, 1. A warm wind of the Sahara us – and stick our kids – a million. selling bonds from time to time, secured 2. A type of Syrian scarf For the schools, we pay 92 percent or solely by real property taxes repayable 3. A Filipino Moslem who takes an $75 million of operating costs this year; under this program, and barricaded against oath before a priest that he will die killing Drivers, Pedestrians: Be Safe, the pensions for all but teachers and ad- invasion for other state budget emergen- Christians ministrators comes to $611,600, or a third cies. This fund pays the municipality what 4. The influence of a star upon another, of the town’s situation (the state, thank it otherwise would have gotten from the or upon man you, pays all teacher pension costs). Pen- property owner; payments back to the PERDITION For Your Sake and For Others sion costs for the town and the BOE fund can be used to provide deferrals for 1. Shame; humiliation together amount to about 3 per cent of the others, or to retire bonds, as appropriate. 2. Complete and irreparable loss; ruin The grave automobile accident Monday afternoon We cannot have policemen on every corner. We total town/board property tax bill. This is a good time to reconsider a 3. The waiting place of the dead before in Westfield on North Avenue was tragic and serves cannot expect that our roads will be redesigned The “typical” Westfield house is patchwork of existing other tax-relief pro- being delivered to heaven or hell $500,000 and paid $12,000 in taxes, in- grams, none of which restore to the tax- 4. Unfaithfulness; perfidious as a reminder to all of us just how dangerous that road anytime soon. cluding $360 for pensions. Deferral of payers the taxes redistributed among oth- JENNET can be. The poor gentleman who was killed appar- Perhaps the county can figure out some options for half, 1.5 percent, is $180 a year. And all of ers: eligible seniors, veterans and wid- 1. A spinning machine with a number ently was a pedestrian still on the sidewalk, yet he this road and others that are similarly dangerous. this assumes, probably wrongly, no ad- ows, which we Westfielders pay our- of spindles Perhaps automakers can add a feature in cars such as verse effect on state aid, caps and other selves (around $1.25 million), and the 2. A window shade of horizontal slats was fatally struck through no fault of his own. We that slope and overlap grieve for him, his family and friends. to announce to a driver when entering a crowded, Trenton-created bobby-traps in their con- Property Tax Reimbursement (tax freeze) trols over municipalities and boards. Guys, Program, whereby moneys are refunded 3. A female donkey or small Spanish North Avenue is a county road. It is in effect a town street. is it worth it? direct from the state coffers ($10 million horse highway – that is the way many of the drivers of cars We are all drivers, and we are all pedestrians. Let’s But increasing property taxes are a this year, estimated $14 million next). 4. A short, stout crowbar used for open- perceive it. Yet, pedestrians in town may perceive it be of the same mind all of the time – be safe, for your problem for many, not only the seniors. Why should the heirs of the beneficia- ing doors as a local road. This leads to a treacherous state of sake and for others. Former Assembly Leader (and later Con- ries of these programs, particularly al- PTEROPE gressman) Bob Franks and I discussed ready “wealthy” ones, get real estate free 1. Related to or characteristic of a fern mind and potential tragedy — even in the best of this two decades ago, to find some way to and clear of years of taxpayer property tax 2. A fruit bat circumstances. make life easier under the burden of then- contributions to their antecedents? Those 3. In anatomy, the junction of frontal, At dusk or with rainy conditions, risks elevate. Apology to Mountainside considered unbearable property taxes. The should also become liens and those pro- the temporal and the great wing of the We have rightfully received criticism from some idea never went anywhere, but it is what grams in present form abolished. spheniod bones Rush hour can bring road rage or driver impatience. 4. In Grecian architecture, a row of Some drivers are just totally oblivious. There are of our subscribers in Mountainside. They complained I am suggesting here to give some relief to There are objections and problems, those needing property tax help – Now. starting with the notorious situation of columns, as in a peristyle; a portico many good drivers on the road, but it only takes one that our newspaper’s coverage of the Mountainside Taxpayers meeting certain criteria New Jersey having so many bonds out. I – or a distracting cell phone conversation. School System budget pales in comparison to the would have the right to defer – not avoid do not like the idea of another bond issue See more letters and candidate Given all this, it is astounding how many times we detail we provided for Westfield. forever – a portion of their property tax any more than most responsible leaders in releases on page 16 see pedestrians cross in the middle of North Avenue, To correct this, we submitted an Open Public bill for the current and future year. Their the state, including I believe the Gover- option. Consequences: nor. But these have a dedicated repay- holding their arms up to stop drivers as these pedes- Records request (OPRA) last week with the The town is the only entity authorized ment source. And the bonds are, as I Letters to trians illegally traverse. Some even do so with their Mountainside Public Schools seeking copies of their to tax real estate and thus is the tax collec- noted, backed by the most valuable asset the Editor children or while pushing their children in carriages. public notice of the budget published by them for the tor also for the board, county, Special in this state – the terra firma under your Similarly, many of us have had to jump out of a last five years. We also asked where the notices were Improvement District and other entities. feet and house and mine. crosswalk while crossing legally with the light to published. If the property owner cannot pay, never- If you have a better idea on how to keep Leader Archives theless the municipality needs the bucks. the pension payments current and not avoid being hit by an aggressive, uncaring or inatten- Last Friday, they responded that our request was A request for deferral has to be pro- deferred, which is imperative, and still Are ‘Priceless’ tive driver. unclear. We made it clear as can be then by providing cessed at any time, not at a once a year give a break to some unfortunate portion I am the granddaughter of Paul and In our society, so hooked on cars and with a an example copy of the Westfield Budget Public deadline, to accommodate those who lost of our population, now is the time to voice Celia Meisel. The archives, which are mentality that seems to place some drivers on an- Notice. We called them on Monday and Tuesday their job, portfolio, spouse, health, etc. it. To quote John Adams, “ Is anybody now searchable at The Westfield Leader, yesterday. Other criteria might include there? Does anybody care? Does any- are priceless to our family. other planet, saying, “Be careful” to pedestrians is an without success. having a New Jersey or federal taxable body see the light?” 245 Walnut Street, 33 and 35 Elm understatement. But, this is the minimum thought To our Mountainside subscribers, we will keep income of not more than a certain amount. Former Mayor Bud Boothe has been Street tell my whole family’s story in that should always be in our minds. you informed on this effort. The amount deferred – perhaps a per- following New Jersey property issues, as print. Irma (Meisel) Horowitz and Marilyn centage with a cap — out of a total tax bill a law student, attorney and municipal (Meisel) Klein are my aunts. Gloria for the year – would be paid to the town by official, for over 50 years. He says the (Meisel) Zarrow is my mom. As my mom the state. The amount would become a problems existed back then, and they ages, I find that finding this information Westfield Mayor Andy Skibitsky Will Seek a Second Term lien against the real estate, as all unpaid have not gotten any better. for her and my aunts a treasure trove of It is an honor and a privilege to serve as ues to produce and broadcast new and being implemented at these locations. The taxes are now. And property taxes, in- Editor’s Note: A better idea? – Cut their lives in print. My grandfather and your mayor. As some of you may know, interesting programs with an overall more committee also worked with Union County cluding new ones, take priority over all expenses, stop corruption and end un- grandmother Paul and Celia Meisel had a this is the final year of my four-year term. polished and professional look. This is a on improved pedestrian crosswalks and traf- else, including mortgages to banks or funded promises; whether town, county, part in what Westfield is today. It’s the I’ve made the decision to run for a second very important time for Westfield, as we fic controls on North Avenue, East Broad others, even those given prior in time to state or school board; deferral is just little things that I have found a wonderful term, although this certainly wasn’t a continue to face difficult municipal and Street, Mountain Avenue and Central Av- the taxes deferred. And the banks have tapping the taxpayer later. collection of memories for them. Even difficult one. I find my mayoral responsi- budgetary decisions in challenging eco- enue. To aid in traffic safety, elementary the ads in The Westfield Leader for my bilities deeply rewarding and satisfying, nomic times. Continuing a policy of open schools now have a “Walking School Bus” grandfather’s store are priceless. and want to continue to serve the town communication and transparency in gov- program. The goals of this program are to I would like to thank all who had a part that is such an important part of the lives ernment is vital. reduce traffic congestion around schools, Letters to the Editor in putting this online. Without their ef- of my family and me. Westfield is a Concerning the budget, every year of reduce pollution, and to provide greater forts and dedication to this project, our beautiful town with great community my term, the Finance Committee and I safety and increased physical fitness to our family’s past would have been lost for- pride, volunteerism and spirit. I share have challenged each budgeted line item school-aged children. Now is Not the Time For Westfield ever. Again, with great appreciation. these values, and my desire to continue as with the goal of minimizing town prop- Recreation improvements included in- Lisa (Zarrow) Tanguay mayor during these difficult times is un- erty taxes without sacrificing services. stallation of state-of-the-art synthetic turf Warwick, R.I. wavering. I want to build on the successes Our efforts have been well worth it. Since at Houlihan and Sid Fey athletic fields. To Pick on Local Businesses and progress we’ve made to date. 2006, departmental operating budgets Not only does this provide an excellent I would like to thank Westfield’s zon- to do something that promotes their store, When I first took office, my primary have increased by a total of only $60,000. facility to Westfield’s youth, it allows ing officer for taking the time and effort to especially merchants like me who pay Clancy Lists Reasons goals were to provide more transparency Over the past four years, 22 positions more practice and games while at the write me a letter last week informing me property taxes, pay outdoor dining permit to Westfield taxpayers and ensure that have either been eliminated or adjusted to same time it lessens wear and tear on that the three-foot by four-foot banner I fees, donate to community organizations For Joining BOE municipal services worked more effec- part-time, equating to a reduction of al- grass fields. Further, in 2008, we com- hang in front of my Zamba Chicken res- and follow all other municipal rules and The volunteerism and dedication of the tively. Not only did we achieve these most 16 full-time positions, which, in pleted a major facility upgrade with a taurant on South Avenue (in Westfield) is regulations. Losing those types of busi- people who live and work in our commu- goals, but we exceeded them as well. I turn, results in $1 million in savings to the wonderful new and expanded commu- in violation of the town’s Land Use Ordi- nesses negatively affects everyone in the nity has never ceased to amaze me. It believe that during my term, we opened taxpayer. My focus will continue to be on nity pool facility. Most importantly, the nance. The letter was well-written, printed community. always seems that when one helping hand the doors to communication, account- spending our tax dollars as wisely and cost of the pool will be paid for from on classic linen stationary and accompa- I know the zoning officer was just reaches out, many more quickly follow. ability and transparency to Westfield’s efficiently as possible. membership revenues, not from property nied by an 8.5-by-11-inch color photo doing her job, but I wish some of the zeal As I have said before, I do feel so fortu- governing body. I introduced the model Working with the town council, de- taxes. The police department recently that clearly documents the violation. How- the town has taken in combating my little nate to live in an environment made up of of a budget presentation directly to the partment officials and many dedicated completed a major communications up- ever, the letter has got me thinking: how banner could be used, instead, to promote caring individuals, who together define citizens at council meetings. We now (i) employees, we have truly improved mu- grade to its facility, resulting in a modern much better off would we be as a town if the downtown for the greater good. You the word community. present a detailed budget to the public nicipal services. We have completed sev- emergency services dispatch center. Other that type of effort was directed at helping may think a small banner in front of a When I joined the board of education each year, (ii) post the presentation on the eral major infrastructure improvements, infrastructure and facility improvements the business community, rather than try- restaurant looks tacky, but a town full of three years ago, my reasons were many. I town website and (iii) include a letter with including the merger, reconfiguration and include roof and interior renovations to ing to tear it down, one sign, banner and empty storefronts looks much worse. felt that my 20 years of experience as both each tax bill that summarizes “Where rebuilding of Parking Lots 1 and 8, creat- the Memorial Library, and the promotional poster at a time? Please, Westfield, let’s focus on what’s a parent and a teacher would reflect so Does Your Tax Dollar Go?” ing a new and larger Lot 1. By moving Mindowaskin Park and Clark Park Gaze- We are in the middle of one of the worst really important. many of the voices in our community. In To further enhance communication, employee permit parking to lesser-used bos. recessions in our country’s history, and John Gennaro addition, I hoped to offer a perspective I’ve made myself available during “Cof- areas, we were able to provide over 100 My decision to seek a second term is businesses all around us are failing. Now, Clark that was deeply rooted in finding ways to fee with the Mayor” sessions on Saturday new short-term parking spaces for shop- largely due to my admiration of Westfield, more than ever, we need the town to help best meet the needs of all of our young mornings. Each year, up to 150 residents pers and diners right in the heart of the its residents and community pride, but support Westfield’s existing merchants Vote for Westfield; learners. I also feel it is important to be a have taken advantage of these Saturday downtown area. Parking improvements I’m really proud of all the work we’ve all and to foster a business environment that good listener because I believe everyone office hours, and I’ve learned quite a bit were also made to Commuter Lot 3. accomplished. I want to continue to be allows empty storefronts to be filled Not State Mediocrity has a right to his or her opinion and that from our citizens. I enjoy these office Additionally, traffic safety has been an your mayor by doing things that make promptly. That’s not going to happen if I want to take this opportunity to thank best solutions are always found when hours and want to thank you all for your area of focus during my term. The Public Westfield a great place to live and work, we pick on merchants every time they try the Westfield Board of Education for weighing all the options. comments, compliments and recommen- Safety, Transportation and Parking Com- and one of the most desirable towns in your very thoughtful budget preparation When making decisions, I value re- dations. To further aid in communication, mittee, lead by Councilman [Mark] New Jersey. For more information on my Windfall Settlement this year. I know it has been a very diffi- search, community input and having an we improved Westfield’s town website Ciarrocca, identified traffic “hot spots” campaign, please visit andy2009.com. cult process and that some of the cuts you open mind. With parents who live in (westfieldnj.gov) to post the minutes and around town and then prioritized eight areas Andy Skibitsky Chambers Award had to make were with deep regret. You town, children ages 10-26, and students agendas of town council and other town for attention and remedial action. Improve- Westfield The Leader’s March 19 Settlement have sought out additional cost reduc- ages 3-5, I am well aware of the multiple boards and commissions. TV36 contin- ments have been or are in the process of Awards story did not address the fact that tions where possible and some of the perspectives that exist right here in our the settlement could be equivalent to over administrators and staff have even gone town. I constantly strive to consider the $1 million on a taxable basis. That’s be- so far as to give back a portion of their impact of these perspectives as I make cause the settlement payment is “on ac- compensation. It is much appreciated! decisions in my work as a board member. count of personal injury”; and, if granted, The State of New Jersey’s fiscal prob- Additionally, it is vitally important to the application “for disability retirement” lems have left all school districts in quite me as a parent, a teacher and as a board of and “life-time medical benefits” are prob- a difficult predicament. The state then education member that we teach our chil- ably all income tax exempt under the law. adds insult to injury for a town like dren to become life-long learners. I feel it The fact that the plaintiff has long life Westfield, who receives very little state is critical to find ways of ensuring that not expectancy under actuarial statistics, is aid, by placing a cap on what Westfield only are our children learning, but that retiring at a relatively young age and taxpayers can do to help maintain our they have the desire to learn as well. We since government pension and medical accomplished school system. Is Trenton’s must continue to value all ideas, inspire benefit plans are very attractive, the fu- goal to have a statewide education system questioning and discovery, and create ture value of those benefits is much greater of mediocrity? environments that allow all of our chil- than the initial $380,000 lump sum pay- With that said, it is very important that dren to succeed. ment in 2009. we are all informed about the budget and It has taken me these past three years of “The Town (of Westfield) agrees not to get out to vote on April 21. If the budget listening to administrators, teachers and contest Chambers’ application for dis- does not pass, then it will be sent over to staff, fellow board members and other ability retirement with life-time medical the Westfield Town Council, where they community members to gain a full under- benefits. The Town further agrees to will further review it and determine if standing and appreciation of the com- promptly cooperate ... in the preparation additional cuts can be made. Unfortu- plexity of the job as a board of education of her application for disability retire- nately, the BOE’s list of “Worst-Case member. As a team, the board and the ment ...“ Scenario” reductions may end up becom- administrators strive to better the educa- The Town has also agreed “Chambers’ ing a reality in that case. Elementary tion for all of our students. Our mission is personnel file will be purged of all records school counselors may be eliminated; to provide a high standard of education demonstrating or relating to disciplinary intermediate school counselors may be and to reach a diverse population of learn- infractions AT ANY TIME (emphasis reduced and will have to be responsible ers. added) in her career.” for even more students;additional teach- There is no end point, only a con- Why was a blanket removal of such ers may be cut, and intramurals and some tinuum to build a solid foundation of matters, if any, not relating to the Decem- of the arts may be eliminated or reduced education and to find ways to make it ber 14, 2006 lawsuit, included in the significantly. stronger. I am dedicated to my work on settlement? I urge you to learn more about the the Board of Education and to the chil- Thanks to The Leader for posting the budget cuts and how they will affect you dren we serve. It would be an honor to five-page settlement agreement on its and your family so you can make an continue to work together, as a commu- website. A parting observation, plaintiff’s informed decision in the voting booth on nity, in our commitment to excellence in attorney clearly knows this specialized April 21. For more information, please go education. area of perfectly legal exaction. to the website: westfieldnjk12.org and Jane Clancy Tim Harrington click on Budget Election Info. Westfield Madison Colleen Echausse E-Mail - [email protected] Westfield A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2009 Page 5
37th Annual Edition This Is Westfield 2009 A must for businesses and organizations in the region. Coming in May – Make your advertising reservations now – (908) 232-4407 – [email protected] – Details are online at www.goleader.com/tiw Candidate Letter Whitehouse for SP-F BOE Walker Considers 2009-10 WF School SP-F School Board President Budget ‘A Budget of Compromise’ On March 31, the Westfield Board of The quality of the education the district Discusses Budget Facts, Alternatives Education voted unanimously to approve will deliver next year depends on the In e-mails, phone calls and blog students will not change based on a yes- the proposed budget for the 2009-10 outcome of this vote. If the community postings, the good folks of Scotch Plains- or-no vote for the budget. school year. The decision now shifts to approves the budget, the core programs Fanwood have been sharing their ques- Waivers – Spending waivers are not the taxpayers. For the next two weeks, will be preserved. Alternately, a budget tions about the proposed school budget. free money, but rather an allowance to taxpayers can read this newspaper, watch defeat takes the decision-making author- And while I appreciate your interest in the increase spending and taxes above the Channel 36, go to the District website ity out of the hands of the taxpayers and school budget, and as a taxpayer, in addi- Cap limit. For the last two years, SP-F (westfieldnjk12.org/election) and/or at- places it in the hands of the town council tion to being the president of the Board of chose not to go that route, but rather to tend public presentations to find out the where additional cuts might be made. Education, I agree that it is important that decrease our costs. It is not helpful to specific details of the budget. Every house- Every year, the school budget presented all voters know what they are voting on. compare SP-F to other neighboring dis- hold will also receive Emphasis, which to the community represents a compro- I also believe it is also important that the tricts that have chosen to use waivers, as will explain the size of the budget, tax mise. This year is no exception, but the facts going out to the voters should be we all have our own unique challenges, impact and categories of expenses. stakes are higher. Vote to preserve our accurate. So I’d like to share with all of and we think we’ve made the correct Westfield’s budget was more difficult schools – please vote “yes” on April 21. you the frequent concerns I’m hearing choice for our communities. to build this year than in the past. First, the Julia Walker, V. P. and the correct information in response. Student Fees – I believe the school economy is in recession and unemploy- Revenue Cap and Expenses – The Cap budget has balanced the priorities of our Westfield Board of Education ment is at a 30-year high. Second, the Finance Committee Chair can be raised either 4 percent or to the community. During the crafting of the board faced competing needs: the economy prior year’s inflation rate, whichever is budget, various stakeholder groups pro- demanded that any budget increase be kept lower. Again this year, the Cap is at 4 vided input, and the board listened. Al- low; contracts with the associations dic- WF Library Book Sales percent. However, the SP-F proposed though we are requesting an increase in THE LEADER IN SPAIN...Westfield transplant Darryl Newman, now of Illinois, tated the salary increases; health insurance school budget is not at Cap, but at 3.1 spending, we have maintained all of our displays a copy of The Westfield Leader while attending the Las Fallas festival premiums skyrocketed; student enrollment Begins April 29 percent. co-curricular activities by instituting a recently in Valencia, Spain. Mr. Newman said the celebration is “non-stop from is at a 30-year high, and state aid was held WESTFIELD – The Friends of the Like other towns, our expenses do in- student activity fee, have maintained class 8 a.m. until 4 a.m. with parades, competitions, bullfights and fireworks.” To see flat. Most importantly, Westfield has good Westfield Memorial Library group has crease as well. sizes that are below our neighbors and a recap of his trip, see page 18. schools, and the board needed to make announced its 36th annual book sale. Energy expenses comprise two com- have reduced staffing, including supervi- sure that even if money is tight, the pro- Donation days will take place April 23, ponents, rates and consumption. The rates sory and administration. Vote ‘Yes’ On Westfield School Budget, gram is protected. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; April 24, from 10 are not controllable, but the consumption To clarify the student fees: all seventh- The only way to keep increases low a.m. to 3 p.m.; April 25, from 10 a.m. to is. The district did just go through an and eighth-grade students participating with growing enrollment and shrinking 1 p.m. analysis of our consumption and has been in instrumental music and/or organized Encourage Board to Focus on Costs revenues is to look for savings, and if that Sale days will take place on April 29, found to be in the top 10 in NJ in effi- district sponsored athletics will be as- I recommend support of the Westfield the board of education to make painful isn’t enough, make cuts. Savings were with a Members Preview from 9 a.m. to ciency. By utilizing remote monitoring, sessed a $100 fee. If a student should Board of Education’s budget; although, if cuts to the budget, including personnel found, for example, with the energy-con- noon and open to the public from 2 to 8 such as having heat turned on remotely, participate in both music and a sport, or escalating costs are not addressed cuts ($1.4 million), stipend cuts servation program begun two years ago p.m.; April 30, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; May 1, versus having a custodian coming in early multiple sports, the fee remains at $100. innovatively and aggressively, it will con- ($143,000), non-personnel operating cuts and with dental and prescription insur- 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Half Price Day); May 2, to turn up the thermostats, costs are re- We will not exceed this amount for any tinue an unfortunate trend of staff and ($164,000) and other budget adjustments. ance coverage. All new initiatives were 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. ($4 Bag Day). duced. Additionally, the district is cur- student. program reductions and taxpayer frustra- It is worth noting that teacher reductions postponed, and building budgets were rently working towards a possible solar In our high school, an activity fee will tion over perceived deterioration of edu- are occurring despite enrollment increas- rolled back to 2007 levels. The savings SP Spring Leaf solution to help reduce costs. With incen- be assessed to any student participating in cation services. ing by 1.1 percent (60 students). Certain were not enough to prevent cuts. tives, such as government grants, a break- an activity that uses a stipend position. Significantly higher healthcare and stipend reductions, in my view, were ex- Ultimately, over 20 positions were Program Set April 20 even analysis will be performed to see These would include clubs, sports and Special Education costs are getting so cessive, and in light of these amounts eliminated, and almost 15 percent of the SCOTCH PLAINS — The 2009 spring what the payback period will be. music programs. Again, this is a fee that large that even with a tax increase averag- being negligible in relation to the overall stipend budget was cut. These efforts leaf, gumball, branches and yard debris Grants are always pursued. Many grants will be assessed for the year regardless of ing $234, the district is being forced to budget, I am disappointed alternate cuts resulted in a budget where no core pro- program will begin on Monday, April 20, are targeted towards districts that are con- the amount of activities in which a student make severe cuts in school services and could not be found elsewhere. gram was eliminated, and class sizes were on both the northside and southside of the sidered “in need” by the grantor. SP-F participates. For students eligible for free staff to be in compliance with state-man- Disproportionately higher healthcare kept within policy. The tax impact will be township. Residents should not place any qualifies for some, and those that we do or reduced lunch, these fees at both the dated expenditure growth guidelines. State costs relative to program costs are putting 3.17 percent, the lowest in 10 years. The debris at the curb until April 10. The qualify for, we apply to and often times middle and high schools will be waived. waivers intended to allow a district to a huge strain on Westfield’s ability to state, under the new legislation, allowed township will pass by each household are successful. Additionally, hardship situations will be avoid expense cuts for exceptional cir- maintain our town’s exceptional academic for Westfield to increase taxes by 3.90 once. Salary and Benefits Costs – The rea- evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Our cumstances were received this year for standing. I encourage the board of educa- percent. The board felt it was too much to Plastic bags are not accepted. Biode- sonableness of increases in these areas is communities have stressed that given a healthcare and Special Education. How- tion to aggressively explore ways to con- ask of taxpayers at this time. gradable paper bags are acceptable. Resi- subjective. To help offset increases, 18 choice of elimination of these programs ever, when these ‘temporary’ waivers trol escalating costs of healthcare and On April 21, the Westfield community dents should remember to leave space positions are being eliminated next year, or a fee, the fee was the preferred alterna- reverse in the following year, it will have Special Education and to seek opportuni- is charged with an important responsibil- along the curbline for water to flow freely including nine directly related to instruc- tive. harsh consequences to the following ties for cost sharing with the town. I urge ity: voting on the annual school budget. to the catch basins. tion. The last negotiation did yield some The results of a budget defeat are as year’s budget if related expenses recur, communication of these initiatives to the “givebacks” on benefits. I understand that follows – On average, Scotch Plains resi- continue to grow and new waivers are not public, and solicit involvement and feed- within the private world, $500 annual dents will save $5 annually for every granted. I suspect healthcare and Special back as work progresses. My understand- contributions are considered small, but $100k, Fanwood $8 dollars annually. That Education cost growth will not be tempo- ing of the district’s existing healthcare within a collective-bargaining environ- $100k will be the equivalent of two teach- rary. plans allows me to believe cost reduc- Helping Accident ment, this was a step forward. The nego- ers. (Last in, first out due to bumping Over the past five years, the school tions can be achieved without reducing tiating team is aware of where the district rights) So, do we increase class size fur- district’s employee benefit costs have plan benefits and increasing employee cost drivers are relative to salaries and ther? Cut music programs? Eliminate grown from 22 percent to nearly 31 per- contribution levels. Victims Everyday benefits. clubs and sports? Each of these areas is cent of compensation, with a primary In light of significant planned expense The district also is well aware of the near and dear to our community, based on component being healthcare. The annual cuts, I urge a “yes” vote on the budget to economic climate we are living in. As we feedback the board has received over the cost of this unfavorable trend is approach- preserve strong schools, which are an are currently negotiating with our teach- years. They also provide our students ing $4.5 million or 9 percent of compen- integral part of our outstanding commu- ers, it is not proper, productive or ethical with opportunities to enhance their sation. Next year’s healthcare costs are nity. for me to go into detail on these negotia- chances for better colleges, while also increasing $1.5 million, or 13 percent. tions. What I can share is that the BOE’s keeping them off the street. Richard Akerly District healthcare costs have risen more Westfield resolve in arriving at a settlement that is Again, I would like for our community rapidly over this five-year period than fair to our district, teachers, taxpayers and to support the school budget with a “yes” most other Union County districts. Addi- vote, but it is important that however you tionally, Special Education costs are in- decide to vote, you have all the facts and creasing rapidly for both new and exist- Write whatever you want. information. If any further clarification is ing students, with costs projected to in- #AR INSURANCE WITH We'll be publish it. required, please feel free to contact me or crease by nearly $1 million with only ***** any other SP-F Board member. modest increased funding from the state, Trip Whitehouse and flat funding from federal sources. 0%23/.!, goleader.com/express President SP-F BOE, The rising costs of healthcare and Spe- Candidate for Reelection cial Education, are key factors in forcing 3%26)#% .O EXTRA CHARGE
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