Congratulations To The Class of 2008
Ad Populos, Non Aditus, Pervenimus
Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890 (908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, June 19, 2008 OUR 118th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 25-2008 Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] SIXTY CENTS Westfield Council Finalizes E-Alert System Purchase By MICHAEL J. POLLACK called Muhlenberg Hospital, the bones and burns, not life-threatening Specially Written for The Westfield Leader facility’s origins date back to the matters, such as heart attacks and WESTFIELD — In addition to fi- 1870’s. strokes. nalizing the purchase of an emer- With losses this year in excess of Effectively, the town’s resolution gency-alert system, Westfield offi- $11 million, and a projected $19 mil- asks the state’s health planning board, cials, Tuesday, passed a resolution lion shortfall in 2009, Solaris Health responsible for conducting a full re- stating the municipality’s concern Care System, which owns view of the “certificate of need,” to over the potential closing of Muhlenberg, filed the required “cer- assure that the decision will not be Muhlenberg Regional Medical Cen- tificate of need” with the New Jersey “harmful to the public interest.” ter, and asked the state to take a closer Department of Health and Senior Second Ward Councilwoman Vicki look at the matter. Services pursuant to its intent to close Kimmins has attended various The Plainfield medical center, a the facility. Muhlenberg-related meetings re- 396-bed acute-care facility that boasts Solaris Chief Executive Officer cently. She told the council, last week, schools of radiology, nursing and John McGee has stated that a “satel- that Muhlenberg serves a vital func- nuclear medicine technology, serves lite emergency department” will re- tion to area residents, and its closing the central New Jersey region and main open, and the facility will be would cause hospitals such as Over- many Westfield citizens. Originally able to handle issues such as broken look, in Summit, to “feel a crunch.” She said, “Our residents use [Muhlenberg]. [If it is closed], we are concerned that they would see more waiting times at other hospitals. It’s going to be a disaster.” Under the Public Safety, Transpor- tation and Parking report, the town Photo courtesy of Jodi Jacobs awarded a contract to establish an e- A DAY AT THE CIRCUS...The circus came to Westfield Friday, June 13, thanks to the voracious readers at McKinley alert system to Honeywell. Elementary School. Students were rewarded with a performance by the Zerbini Family Circus after meeting their goal of Jointly purchased with the reading of 16,000 books. They went the extra step by reading 16,913 books. Word spread of this accomplishment and reporter Westfield Board of Education, there Pat Battle from WNBC-TV came to report on the day. Later, the kids saw themselves on TV on the 6 p.m. news. will be two separate, but connected, systems. This year, the town will pay $27,000, and the BOE will be charged WF Board of Ed. Gives Updates on $17,000. A three-year arrangement, the cost drops $4,000 for both entities next year. The e-alert system will enable the Database and Teacher Mentoring town to send important notices more By CHRISTINA M. HINKE guidance at Westfield High School, cess of scheduling through Simple. effectively. Residents will have the Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Scott White, will coordinate the ef- Following the update, Barbara Ball, ability to stay informed via an “un- WESTFIELD — Superintendent forts to integrate the system. human resources supervisor for the Raynor Denitzio for The Westfield Leader DRAWING THE LINE… Union County Police Officer Frank Catena rides his limited” number of devices, includ- of Schools Margaret Dolan updated She also noted that because of the district, presented the teacher- horse, Justice, during Substance Abuse Awareness Day in Garwood on Saturday. ing home phone, pager, cell phone, e- the board of education during its regu- setback with the database, high school mentoring plan for 2008 to 2010. Hosted by Garwood Parents Draw the Line, the event enabled residents to enjoy mail and more. lar Tuesday meeting on the school class schedules would not be out in “Teacher quality is most important” rides, games and demonstrations from local police agencies. Sue Baron, one of the Last week, Third Ward Council- district’s implementation of the stu- June, but at a later date not yet deter- in the success of students,” said Ms. organizers of the event, said that the purpose of the day was “to show what a fun man Mark Ciarrocca said the town dent database provided by Simple. mined. Ball, and mentoring is a path to im- family day you can have without drugs.” would work with the school system to The database allows teachers to Board member Beth Cassie said, as proving the quality of teachers. She encourage those on the school’s net- input their report cards online, tran- a parent, the elementary report card said, “A teacher can affect 3,000 stu- work to “opt in” to Westfield’s ser- scripts and state reports. These state via Simple is “far superior” and “much dents in a lifetime.” Mountainside Board Denies vice. reports have “grown exponentially in clearer” than the old method of re- Her presentation showed that the Mr. Ciarrocca said he hopes, even- the last few years,” said Ms. Dolan. trieving report cards. district has 32 novice, i.e. brand new Arirang’s Expansion Plan tually, enough people take part in the “For every student taking the test, Board president Ginny Leiz re- in his/her profession, teachers for the alert system and that it eliminates the there are 30 fields [to fill in].” quested a study measuring the suc- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 By CAROLYN D. FREUNDLICH ing, another option to accommodate need to disseminate information via She elaborated on some of the is- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader the additional patronage, and use all paper mailings, which are more costly sues users are facing with the new MOUNTAINSIDE — The plan- 205 spaces, would be to hire people to and environmentally unfriendly. system. Printing and formatting prob- Legislators Wrangle Over ning board, last Thursday, unani- direct traffic through the parking lot. Separately, at Tuesday’s meeting, lems exist, as does the lack of an mously denied Arirang Hibachi This would change the previous clock- Mr. Ciarrocca took a moment to thank option for a “print preview,” which is State Budget in Trenton Steakhouse and Sushi Bar’s submit- wise traffic flow into a counter clock- Bruce Kaufmann, recreation direc- “cumbersome and time consuming” tor; Paul Checchio, pool technician; for the teachers, Ms. Dolan said. She By BETH BUDNICK ties must tighten their belts,” he said. tal for a use variance, after a two- wise direction, thus filtering traffic Specially Written for The Westfield Leader year-long debate. The restaurant out of the back exit onto Beech Av- William Palatucci, recreation com- said the district is talking to the com- Mr. Scutari also said this year’s wanted to expand its business by turn- enue. mission chairman; and all volunteers pany to forge a solution. Also low TRENTON — Governor Jon budget was “almost historical” in its ing the 12,000 square feet of unused This traffic flow and exit strategy involved with the opening of the reno- bandwidth has caused systems to Corzine and the State Legislature reductions of spending by a Demo- space in the basement into a banquet would safely allow for emergency vated and expanded Westfield Me- “freeze,” she added. agreed on $32.8-billion budget for cratic majority. hall. The banquet hall would accom- vehicles to enter and exit the pre- morial Pool. Although glitches with Simple ex- the 2008-2009 fiscal year on Mon- Officials stated that that aid reduc- modate an additional 207 patrons. mises. Mr. Ciarrocca said the “first-rate ist, Ms. Dolan said the number of day. This budget includes cuts in state tion itself should not result in more The board has lingered on the con- Mr. Maltz, traffic and transporta- complex” experienced a new record users have doubled to over 600. aid to municipalities, such as than a $100 increase over 2007 aver- troversial topic for about two years, tion consulting expert, agreed with CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Going forward, the new director of Fanwood’s loss of funds “that we age residential property taxes as cal- holding numerous meetings to dis- Mr. Chadwick’s proposals of valet don’t have any control over” accord- culated by the Division of Local Gov- cuss the possibilities. parking or regulated traffic within the ing to Mayor Colleen Mahr (see Ted ernment Services. However, this pre- Arirang is a restaurant located at parking lot. Garwood BOE Hires Resnick Ritter’s article on page 10). ventative measure does little to coun- 1230 Route 22, West. Behind Arirang, Mr. Chadwick also suggested in- Such measures are a part of Govenor teract that “this budget directly in- parallel to Route 22, lies Beech Av- corporating a buffer to accommodate Corzine’s “Financial Restructuring creases people’s property tax and in- enue, a heavily populated, residential the nearby residents, because of the For Interim Bus. Admin. and Debt Reduction Plan.” Mr. creases people’s utility bills” while district. Many residents of Beech increased business the banquet hall By RAYNOR DENITZIO pre-school special education program Corzine said measures, such as the “not going far enough in more effi- Avenue and the surrounding area op- would potentially generate, and the Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and the principal vacancy at the Lin- budget cuts, were to account for the ciently spending people’s money,” posing the application have regularly traffic that would increase in the resi- GARWOOD — The board of edu- coln School. Once these staffing mat- “$30-billion in debt and staggering said Senator Tom Kean, Jr. (R-21, attended the meetings. dential streets. He said he believes cation (BOE) on Monday approved ters are addressed, Ms. Quigley said unfunded pension and healthcare li- Westfield). In order to get a full understanding taking away parking lot spaces and the appointment of Mark Resnick to that the district would seek a full- abilities” that New Jersey has “The budget is reneging on a prom- of Arirang’s legal capacity for expan- adding shrubbery to the outskirts of act as the school business administra- time replacement. “amassed,” according to his website. ise to start phasing out a high utility sion, experts were called to testify in the parking lot can accomplish this. tor (SBA) on an interim basis. Mr. “I’m just glad I can put that on the Particularly important to Fanwood, tax,” Mr. Kean said. Moreover, the front of the planning board through- Mr. Chadwick said basically anything Resnick will replace current admin- back burner for a couple of months,” the budget cuts include $170 million 2008-2009 budget calls for tax in- out the last two years. During last that gives “a hint of something other istrator Julia DePinto-Perez, who is Ms. Quigley said. from state aid to municipalities. This creases “at a time when people are Thursday’s meeting, John Chadwick than a big parking lot” would be de- resigning effective June 30. Ms. Quigley also said Mr. Resnick year’s state aid appropriations reduce hurting the most.” and Harold K. Maltz testified and sirable. He said this would give back Superintendant of Schools Teresa was qualified because he is familiar funds to municipalities below 10,000 “This budget, unlike the one pro- provided their opinions. to the community by offering “a dra- Quigley said Mr. Resnick is a retired with state laws regarding schools. in population by 25 percent, and the posed by the Republicans, is not mak- Mr. Chadwick is a licensed profes- matically different effect of the road- business administrator and will work “I needed someone who knows amount by municipalities with popu- ing New Jersey more affordable,” said sional planner, who has previously side view of this property”. part-time in conjunction with Ernie exactly what they are doing,” Ms. lations over 10,000 by 2.42 percent. Mr. Kean, noting the budget fails to overseen hundreds of planning Numerous Beech Avenue residents Turner, who was retained as a con- Quigley said. “It’s a tight budget and a strong focus on transportation or the state’s boards. Taking spatial and traffic regu- were in strong opposition to Arirang’s sultant on financial matters for the Mr. Resnick will work approximately budget that reflects tough economic infrastructure needs. Moreover, “no- lations into consideration, he said he expansion, and said they did not feel district. one day a week at a rate of $90 per hour. times,” said State Senator Nicholas body really knows what’s in [the bud- believes the restaurant needs to imple- the buffer suggested by Mr. Chadwick Ms. Quigley said the district de- In other business, the board ap- Scutari (D-22, Linden). One result of get],” he said. ment several changes in order to ex- was a fair proposal. Currently, the cided to hire an interim SBA since proved salary increases for employ- a tighter budget is that “municipali- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 pand. If Arirang had strictly valet residents are frustrated with the there are a number of staffing matters ees, which were discussed during the parking, it would be able to expand amount of problems the restaurant to address related to the district’s new CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 parking from 184 to 205 spaces. If the generates due to its popularity, and restaurant voted against valet park- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 MS Taxes Increase $800 K in 2008 $10.5 Mil. Budget By EBONY McQUEEN the resident asks for it. We under- Specially Written for the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times stand and we would not want a PODS MOUNTAINSIDE – The (unit) causing an accident.” Mountainside Borough Council Tues- The ordinance, which passed on day adopted its $10.5 million munici- Tuesday, stipulates that residents must pal budget in unanimous fashion. apply for a permit and pay a $50 fee Of the $10.5 million budget, prior to placing the storage container roughly $6.59 million will be raised on property. The unit may not sit on a through local property taxes, an in- property longer than 30 days. crease of roughly $800,000 from Borough resident, Ed LaTourette, 2007. of Dunn Parkway, spoke of concerns The levy’s $44,000 reduction was regarding a borough-owned easement caused due to an increase in state aid for storm water runoff. Greg Ryan for The Westfield Leader and an increase in the surplus. He said over the last 15 years the OPENING DAY…Westfield Acting Mayor Mark Ciarrocca cuts the ribbon last In a separate matter, a PODS (Por- easement has increased by 15 feet in Saturday to officially open the newly expanded and improved Westfield Memo- table On Demand Storage) represen- width and is destroying his deck. rial Pool. He is joined by recreation commission members, recreation department tative, Orlando Silva, addressed the Mayor Robert Viglianti advised Mr. staff, town adminstration and council members. borough council concerning an ordi- LaTourette to contact borough engi- nance that would restrict the use and neer Mike Disko. PAGE INDEX placement of PODS. The council concluded the meeting Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-17 Katherine Vowell for The Westfield Leader Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 8-9, 17 Classifieds .... 17 FUN IN THE SUN...After last week’s heat wave, a grandfather and grandson Mr. Silva said, “At times, we do by going into executive session to enjoy a day in Tamaques park. struggle with placing the PODS where discuss an employee benefit program. Community ... 6-8 Sports ...... 11-16 A&E ...... 19-20 Page 10 Thursday, June 19, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A Watchung Communications, Inc. Publication Westfield Rescue Squad Member Receives Award WESTFIELD — Westfield Volun- lances and is usually on duty Tuesday teer Rescue Squad (WVRS) member nights. Drew Fleyzor has received the Over- “This was quite an honor and it is a look Hospital EMT Excellence Award. pleasure to serve the community of The award, presented on May 30, was Westfield as an EMT and squad mem- given in recognition of Mr. Fleyzor’s ber,” he said. “Outstanding service to EMS.” Prior to joining Westfield’s squad, Mr. Fleyzor is an emergency medical Mr. Fleyzor was a member of the Clark technician with five years experience Volunteer First Aid Squad for two years. and has been a member of the WVRS He works at On Time Ambulance in for three years. He serves as lieutenant Roselle as an EMT dispatcher and re- in charge of the squad’s three ambu- cruiter. Westfield DPW Worker
Katherine Vowell for The Westfield Leader BECOMING AWARE...The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School displays a Plays Good Samaritan wrecked car to remind students not to drink and drive as graduation approaches. Courtesy of Jonathan Delano OUTSTANDING...Drew Fleyzor of the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad dis- By RAYNOR DENITZIO said. plays the plaque he received on May 30 as part of the Overlook Hospital EMT Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Mr. Brown downplayed his role, say- Excellence Award. WESTFIELD — A longtime member ing that it was “no big deal,” and that Mr. of the Westfield Department of Public Briggs, a retired firefighter, was mostly POLICE BLOTTER Works became a reluctant hero during his responsible for helping the woman. FW Mayor: State ‘Ridiculous vacation when he came to the aid of a “I don’t see anything great, other than fellow traveler having a heart attack. helping somebody along the way,” Mr. Westfield at $4,000 from his property between the Arthur Brown, who has been with the Brown said. Tuesday, June 10, the apparent theft of hours of 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. department of public works for 38 years, an Apple iPhone, valued at approximately Sunday, June 15, a resident of Wood- Ramp-up’ of Pension Fund was on a cruise recently to Puerto Rico, $400, was reported at a Stoneleigh Park land Avenue reported that someone By TED RITTER (see page 4), as the governing body St. Thomas and St. Martin. While the residence. knocked down their free-standing mail- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader continues its efforts to finalize an ship was stopped in port, an elderly NJ State Wednesday, June 11, Marcus Rawls, box. FANWOOD – At a special meeting $8.5 million budget this summer. female passenger had what appeared to 40, of Newark was arrested on the 100 Monday, June 16, a resident of Scotch Tuesday night, Mayor Colleen Mahr Mayor Mahr said the decision to send be a heart attack. The woman’s husband block of Prospect Street on a shoplifting Plains reported that someone keyed their announced that a “community-wide out the layoff notices was “misinter- began calling for help and Mr. Brown Budget offense and an outstanding Rutherford vehicle while it was parked in the 100 said that he, along with fellow passen- criminal warrant with bail of $130. Bail block of Pleasant Avenue. meeting” regarding the borough’s preted in ways we could not have ger Stephen Briggs, went to the woman’s CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 on the shoplifting offense was set at Monday, June 16, a resident of the 100 budget will be held on Wednesday, foreseen.” She said it was “incor- aid and began performing CPR. Mr. Kean’s statements echo cri- $1,000. Rawls was held at the Westfield block of Chetwood Place reported that July 9, at 7 p.m. at Forest Road Park. rectly reported” that the decision “was The ship’s doctor soon arrived and tiques of the budget in the recent Police Department pending the posting of sometime between midnight, Friday, May In making the announcement, the because of our state aid numbers.” took over treatment. Mr. Brown said weeks. The 2008-2009 budget has bail. 30, and noon, Sunday, June 15, someone mayor said she has called the meeting Rather, the mayor pointed to a “loss the fact that the boat was in port also sparked controversy from many Friday, June 13, police arrested Chris- attempted to enter their residence through “to sort of separate fact from fiction in revenues” and “significant in- helped save the woman’s life since she groups in addition to municipalities, tina Wichoski, 18, Suzanna Cross, 19, a side door. Police said entry was not and explain why we’re even looking” creases in our pension obligations” was able to be transported to a local Joshua Newberg, 21, and Mark Boyle, gained. hospital for treatment. such as housing, environmental, la- Mountainside at the issue of municipal employee due to the state’s “ridiculous ramp-up bor and student organizations. 21, all of Westfield, on charges of posses- layoffs. schedule” for refunding the pension “We were lucky we were in port where sion of more than 50 grams of suspected Friday, June 13, Victor A. Soria, 48, of the ambulance could come and take her to Accordingly, municipalities are not marijuana, possession of cocaine, pos- Plainfield was arrested and charged with “The Borough of Fanwood has re- system. “This is why we’re in the the hospital,” Mr. Brown said. alone in feeling the cuts. For example, session of a controlled dangerous sub- driving without a license after being in- ceived some extraordinary [press] at- situation we’re in,” Mayor Mahr said. Mr. Brown did not know the woman’s the 2008-2009 measures cut more stance in a school zone and possession of volved in a motor vehicle accident on tention in our attempt to be prudent “The public needs to understand name, but said he has received word that than $90 million from subsidies for drug paraphernalia. The arrests occurred Route 22. He was also charged with mul- and to communicate to all our em- that even if we get extraordinary she did recover from the episode. hospitals. on the 500 block of Cumberland Street tiple outstanding warrants, police said. ployees [about] the situation we’re [state] aid, that just gets us to the 4 “That’s all I was concerned about,” he But despite complaints, Mr. Scutari during the investigation of a suspicious Friday, June 14, Ferdinan Maysonet, in,” Mayor Mahr said. percent cap on the [municipal tax] said the budget leaders had done “an motor vehicle. All four were released 52, of Jersey City was arrested and charged The borough sent layoff notices to levy; we’re still facing a significant excellent job forging a strong bud- after processing. with driving with a suspended license every municipal employee last week tax increase,” she said. Saturday, June 14, after being stopped after being stopped for allegedly being Garwood get.” for a motor vehicle violation, Lamar involved in a motor vehicle crash. As introduced, the borough’s As of press time, calls were placed CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Ingram, 20, of Linden was arrested at Saturday, June 14, Michelle C. Lee, spending plan would result in a mu- to Assemblywoman Linda Stender North and South Euclid Avenues on an 28, of Plainfield was arrested for an out- nicipal tax hike of nearly 30 percent May 20 meeting. The board approved (LD-2, Fanwood) and Assemblyman active warrant out of Linden. standing warrant in the amount of $165 WF BOE without state aid. Borough Adminis- the appointment of full-time, part- Jon Bramnick (LD-21, Westfield) who Scotch Plains after a motor vehicle stop on Route 22. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 trator Eleanor McGovern said the state time and special education parapro- were in Trenton negotiating budget Tuesday, June 10, a resident of Spruce Sunday, June 15, Michael P. O’Connor, spending plan agreed to in Trenton fessionals with a 3 percent pay in- measures and not available for com- Lane reported that someone used his credit 22, of Westfield was arrested and charged 2007-2008 school year, with 15 in earlier this week likely means that crease. The board also approved 3 ment. card without authorization to purchase with DWI after being involved in a one- Kindergarten to grade 5, seven in Fanwood will receive only about 75 percent pay increases for a security The budget is currently going $700 worth of merchandise. car motor vehicle accident. grades 6 to 8, seven in grades 9 to 12, percent of the aid that came in last Wednesday, June 11, a resident of East Sunday, June 15, Trevorald Parrish, staff member, members of the secre- through last stages of process, and is Second Street reported that someone has 19, of Plainfield was arrested and charged and three in special education. year, not including any extraordinary tarial, clerical and custodial staff, the set for a final passage on Monday, The mentoring program provides been calling her during the day and night with driving with a suspended license and aid for which the borough also ap- supervisor of buildings and grounds, according to the Star-Ledger. The but just yells and hangs up. leaving the scene of an accident after support to grow, build on strengths plied. the technology coordinator, treasurer, state budget is required by state con- Thursday, June 12, a resident of High- being involved in a motor vehicle acci- and encourages experimentation in “So we’ve basically been told to and a part-time nurse. stitution to be in place by July 1. lander Drive reported that someone en- dent on Route 22, which he is suspected to the field, said Ms. Ball. The district look at what [we] got last year and The board also discussed increas- Asw. Linda Stender told The tered her vehicle and removed several have been the driver. offers many types of support, includ- knock off 25 percent,” said Mayor ing stipends for BOE members. Dur- Leader/Times on Wednesday, “We are items valued at $200. According to police, officers noticed a ing the Westfield New Teacher Insti- Mahr, adding that the borough’s Chief ing the votes, board members Chris- working very hard to develop a bud- Thursday, June 12, a resident of Aber- car behind a business on Route 22 that tute and an institute held at each school Financial Officer Fred Tomkins “is tine Guerriero and Linda Koenig get that ends the practice of spending deen reported that someone entered her had crashed through a fence. While turn- that is specific to the needs of that going to start running the numbers” vehicle and removed approximately $100 ing around to inspect the scene further, raised questions about the increases, beyond our means and begins to solve worth of items. police noticed three individuals inspect- school, a buddy teacher and profes- in order to determine specific aid saying it was their understanding that some of New Jersey’s financial chal- sional development programs. Sunday, June 15, Tajah Bacot, 18, of ing a car parked in a closed service sta- amounts. “It’s confusing because state the board agreed to freeze stipends lenges while still protecting the most Middlesex was arrested for obstruction of tion, authorities said. According to po- Ms. Leiz said that Westfield has aid is made up of so many different during discussions. vulnerable members of our popula- justice after police responded to a report lice, the three individuals stated that their received “great accolades from the pots of money,” she explained. Alan Schnirman, serving as board tion. I believe that we are close to of a rowdy group in front of a store on car was sideswiped by the vehicle that state and the county” for its teacher- “As soon as we get the figures, attorney for the evening, said that achieving these goals, but we still Route 22. While dispersing the crowd, they witnessed crashing in to the fence. mentoring program. we’ll have them prepared for every- since the resolutions were introduced, have some work to do.” Bacot became loud and refused to leave Parrish was apprehended approxi- Board member Alice Hunnicutt met body,” Mrs. McGovern said. members should vote as they saw fit the area, police said. According to police, mately a mile down Route 22 along with with the curriculum committee within “Twenty-five percent less of any- on the matter. he was processed and released after post- a juvenile and Asion K. Harris, 19, of the last two weeks and discussed thing, in these days, is a tremendous The board approved the stipend ing bail. Scotch Plains, who was arrested and changes to a high school drama reduction,” Council President Joan Sunday, June 15, police responded to a charged with leaving the scene of a motor increases for the substitute coordina- report of a disturbance at a Route 22 gas vehicle accident and failure to report a course, which will cut its offering in Wheeler said. tor, Right to Know Officer, supervi- Arirang CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 station. Upon arrival, police discovered a motor vehicle accident after he was ap- half next year from four to two ses- “Any tax increase is not something sor of special services and Thomas customer arguing with an attendant over prehended by police in the vicinity of the sions. She also noted that the the public wants to see,” said Mayor Spera for his Black Seal License. said they feel an expansion of the how much gas was pumped and the price accident. Tamaques School principal requested Mahr, adding, “We are [also] affect- During the public hearing, resident restaurant would increase their com- to be paid, police said. According to po- a new science program. The commit- ing employees’ lives, that’s for sure.” Bruce Paterson inquired about land- plaints. lice, the officer settled the dispute and the tee also discussed changes to the tele- The mayor said she is holding the scaping around Lincoln School. Ear- The residents blame the restaurant’s customer agreed to pay the money. vision production course and music July 9 meeting to make it clear to lier in the meeting Building and popularity for the influx of suspi- Sunday, June 15, Lamont Moseley, 23, WF Council for Kindergarten to grade 5. Music the public “where we are today” in of Hackensack was arrested and charged Grounds Committee Chairman Lisa cious behavior, drunken patrons and with driving while intoxicated (DWI) af- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 will now offer a separate instrumen- terms of the borough’s revenues, Marano discussed possibilities for robberies on their street. Also, the tal course for students who play in- ter being stopped for a motor vehicle for attendees in a single day, last pension obligations and state-man- preventing erosion and promoting restaurant provides an unwanted violation. He was transported to head- struments. dated costs “that we don’t have any Saturday. Roughly 2,700 people came grass growth at areas around the amount of noise and trash, and lights quarters where he was processed and re- to the pool on its opening day, sur- Ms. Hunnicutt, recently nominated control over.” school at an estimated cost of $5,000. from cars often shine into resident’s leased with a summons, police said. by Governor Jon Corzine for the state “This is not a spending problem,” passing the previous record of 2,220. Mr. Paterson asked if landscaping homes, residents said. Monday, June 16, Albert Hopkins, 46, Under the Finance Policy Commit- employment and training commis- Mayor Mahr noted. “Our spending is was addressed during the schools con- Local residents said they feel the of Brooklyn, NY was arrested and charged sion to assist special needs persons in flat.” with DWI after being stopped for a motor tee, the council passed a resolution struction and if the contractor was traffic on Beech Avenue, as proposed awarding the purchase of a D.A.R.E. the work force, announced the Also Tuesday night, the governing responsible for the current issues. The by the new parking plan, stands to vehicle violation. He was transported to governor’s adoption of Alicia’s Law. body approved a resolution renewing headquarters where he was processed and (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) board informed Mr. Paterson that endanger their families. released with a summons, police said. vehicle. With the help of the Westfield The law allows students with dis- a shared services agreement with landscaping was not part of the con- Jacquie Mahon, Beech Avenue resi- abilities, who are allowed to stay in Fanwood Area Chamber of Commerce and Scotch Plains. Under the agreement, struction. dent, said there are no sidewalks on Wednesday, June 11, Robert Roy, Jr., school until age 21, to walk at high Fanwood’s tax collector works for Officer Gary Moore, “D.A.R.E. to Mr. Paterson also inquired about the street and her children often play 28, of Roselle was arrested on a Union Dine” events, functioning as “Iron school graduation along with the class Scotch Plains for approximately eight the BOE website, which he said was outside at night. She spoke out against County Sheriff’s Department no-bail war- they had attended school with. to 10 hours per week. “Scotch Plains Chef”-like cook-offs helped raise out of date. The board said they are in the proposed plan. rant after a field investigation on Martine $18,000, which was used toward the “Although we [Westfield High pays us for these services,” Mayor the process of redesigning the website “Instead of living next to 22, they Avenue. According to police, he was School] have been doing it for a while Mahr said. “We’ve been doing this turned over to the Union County Sheriff’s purchase of a 2007 Chevy Tahoe. to make it easier to maintain. are bringing 22 to my house,” Ms. Westfield’s New Norris Chevrolet now, it’s nice to know other schools now for two years.” The board will hold a special meet- Mahon said. Department. will follow suit,” Ms. Hunnicutt said. Following the meeting, the mayor Saturday, June 14, Zyykirrah M. contributed the remaining $29,000 ing this Tuesday, June 24, at 6 p.m. to She said this would possibly en- Casado, 23, of Plainfield was arrested for for the buy. Prior to the general meeting, the and council met in an executive ses- discuss budget matters. Finance danger her children, and the numer- board honored David Della Fera, Jer- sion to discuss issues relating to col- obstruction of justice for providing police The council unanimously approved Chairperson Susan Groning said that ous other children that live on the with false documentation after a motor the purchase, with Mr. Ciarrocca ab- emy Davies and Karen Goller, all lective bargaining agreements and the board would discuss transferring street by exposing them to increased vehicle stop on North Avenue. Accord- English teachers who received the “matters relating to public safety and staining as he has represented the funds for capital improvements, chances of getting hit by a car or ing to police, she was processed and re- dealership in the courtroom. Teacher of the Year Award. property.” among other matters. abducted. leased after posting bail. Saturday, June 14, Nyeesha S. Former First Ward Councilman Pe- Coleman, 19, of Plainfield was arrested ter Echausse will fill an unexpired following a motor vehicle stop on North term on the recreation commission, Avenue for an outstanding warrant out of to end December 31, 2010. Minehill. According to police, she was Mayor Andy Skibitsky urged those processed and released after posting bail. watching on TV-36 to read a Sunday Sunday, June 15, Santiago Z. Vidal, Star-Ledger article that focused on 48, of Westfield was arrested following a Westfield making a motor vehicle stop on South Avenue for relocateamerica.com list of the top- outstanding warrants out of Bordentown and Newark. According to police, he was 100 places to live nationwide. processed and released after posting bail. Westfield was the only New Jersey Sunday, June 15, a resident in the 100 town chosen, and the mayor wished block of Westfield Road reported that to acknowledge the “prestigious someone removed a 10-foot dingy valued award.”
I’ve changed my address. Come visit me at my new office today. (800) 554-6964
Ron Bansky 519 South Ave West Westfield [email protected]
Come and compare your current policy with one from Allstate Katherine Emire-Nieves for The Westfield Leader WELCOME ABOARD...Newly appointed Deerfield Middle School Principal Robert Phillips was introduced at last week’s board of education meeting. Mr. Phillips, pictured above with his wife, Lisa, replaces Jeanette Baubles. Ms. Insurance subject to availability and qualifications.Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company, Bridgewater, New Jersey. © 2007 Allstate Insurance Company. Baubles now will serve as the district’s chief school administrator. Congratulations to the Class of 2008
USPS 485200 Thursday, June 19, 2008 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 SIXTY CENTS OUR 49TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 25-2008 Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J. www.timesnj.com [email protected] Mahr: State ‘Ridiculous Ramp-up’ For Pension Fund Forces Layoffs By TED RITTER ployees [about] the situation we’re system. “This is why we’re in the Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times in,” Mayor Mahr said. situation we’re in,” Mayor Mahr said. FANWOOD – At a special meeting The borough sent layoff notices to “The public needs to understand Tuesday night, Mayor Colleen Mahr every municipal employee last week that even if we get extraordinary announced that a “community-wide (see page 4), as the governing body [state] aid, that just gets us to the 4 meeting” regarding the borough’s continues its efforts to finalize an percent cap on the [municipal tax] budget will be held on Wednesday, $8.5 million budget this summer. levy; we’re still facing a significant July 9, at 7 p.m. at Forest Road Park. Mayor Mahr said the decision to send tax increase,” she said. In making the announcement, the out the layoff notices was “misinter- As introduced, the borough’s mayor said she has called the meeting preted in ways we could not have spending plan would result in a mu- “to sort of separate fact from fiction foreseen.” She said it was “incor- nicipal tax hike of nearly 30 percent and explain why we’re even looking” rectly reported” that the decision “was without state aid. Borough Adminis- at the issue of municipal employee because of our state aid numbers.” trator Eleanor McGovern said the state layoffs. Rather, the mayor pointed to a “loss spending plan agreed to in Trenton “The Borough of Fanwood has re- in revenues” and “significant in- earlier this week likely means that ceived some extraordinary [press] creases in our pension obligations” Fanwood will receive only about 75 attention in our attempt to be prudent due to the state’s “ridiculous ramp-up percent of the aid that came in last and to communicate to all our em- schedule” for refunding the pension year, not including any extraordinary aid for which the borough also ap- plied. “So we’ve basically been told to look at what [we] got last year and Katie Rogers forThe Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times knock off 25 percent,” said Mayor READY FOR GRADUATION...With the turf project almost complete, the new Scotch Plains-Fanwood fields are in great Mahr, adding that borough Chief Fi- shape for this year’s graduation ceremony. Work on the track will begin after graduation. nancial Officer Fred Tomkins, “is going to start running the numbers” in order to determine specific aid amounts. “It’s confusing because state Council Receives Proposals aid is made up of so many different pots of money,” she explained. “As soon as we get the figures, we’ll have them prepared for every- For Firehouse Renovations body,” Ms. McGovern said. “Twenty-five percent less of any- By FRED T. ROSSI additional storage on the ground floor turing flooring and ceiling made from thing, in these days, is a tremendous Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times and a new kitchen area upstairs. In recycled materials and more energy reduction,” Council President Joan SCOTCH PLAINS – The township addition, new walls, ceilings, floors efficient through the use of modern Wheeler said. council is expected to receive next and a new air conditioning systemwill electrical systems. “Any tax increase is not something month more concrete cost estimates for be installed, the entire parking lot will Chief Ellis said he was not sure the public wants to see,” said Mayor the significant renovations being pro- be repaved, the exercise area will be whether soliciting one bid for the two Mahr, adding, “We are [also] affect- posed for the two firehouses. renovated and the insulation will be buildings or separate bids for each fa-
Ted Ritter for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times ing employees’ lives, that’s for sure.” Architect Michael Giambalvo and replaced. cility would be more feasible. He did REVIEWING THE FACTS…Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr reviews a document The mayor said she is holding the Fire Chief Jonathan Ellis spent nearly In what Chief Ellis called an effort to tell the council that the work would not during a special meeting Tuesday night. The session was the latest in a series of special July 9 meeting to make it clear to the an hour on Tuesday night reviewing ensure “continuity of government,” in be done concurrently. Councilman budget meetings held by the governing body during the past few months. Council public “where we are today” in terms with the council the details of the the event the municipal building is in- Kevin Glover asked for a timetable on President Joan Wheeler is seated at left; Councilman David Valian is at right. of the borough’s revenues, pension planned improvements to the facilities, operable, space will be available in the how the work would be done so that obligations and state-mandated costs located at the corner of Martine Avenue northside firehouse for the police interruptions to the fire department’s “that we don’t have any control over.” and Raritan Road and behind the mu- department’s dispatcher, so that law activities are kept to a reasonable mini- Layoff Notices Go Out to “This is not a spending problem,” nicipal building. enforcement efforts are not interrupted. mum. Mayor Mahr noted. “Our spending is The northside building, which was Additionally, the firehouse will have At its regular meeting next Tuesday All 66 Borough Employees flat.” built in 1948 as a public works garage space for computers that will back up night, the council will hold what is Also Tuesday night, the governing and then renovated into a firehouse in the municipal building’s system in the likely to be a lengthy public hearing on By PAUL PEYTON, KATIE ROGERS She said the borough would wait body approved a resolution renewing 1969, has had no significant renova- event of a computer problem in the an ordinance to establish a Special Im- Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times until state aid numbers come in next a shared services agreement with tions since then, while the 50-year-old main building. Both buildings’ exteri- provement District (SID) in the down- FANWOOD – The borough’s 66 month before deciding on layoffs. Scotch Plains. Under the agreement, southside building has only undergone ors will be refaced as well, Mr. town and nearby areas, including Park full- and part-time employees re- The borough council introduced an Fanwood’s tax collector works for minor repairs over the years. Giambalvo said. Both facilities will be Avenue, Front Street, Terrill Road, East ceived a notice last week of the pos- $8.5 million budget in April. That spend- Scotch Plains for approximately eight The southside firehouse is slated for more environmentally friendly by fea- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 sibility of layoffs due to rising budget ing plan includes a 29 percent increase to 10 hours per week. “Scotch Plains a major renovation, Mr. Giambalvo costs and lower revenue projections. in local taxes. The mayor has called pays us for these services,” Mayor told the council, including new floors Layoffs, if they occur, are “expected such a hike “unacceptable.” Depart- Mahr said. “We’ve been doing this and ceilings, refurbished bathrooms, a Turf Installation Expected to be permanent,” according to a copy ment heads were told to cut their bud- now for two years.” renovated and upgraded kitchen, new of the letter sent by workers and ob- gets between five and 10 percent. Following the meeting, the mayor flooring and lighting in the garage, a tained by The Scotch Plains-Fanwood “I don’t see it [the fiscal situation] and council met in an executive ses- new air conditioning system and a key- To Be Completed by Aug. 15 Times. getting better, which is why [we] are sion to discuss issues relating to col- less entry system. By KATHERINE VOWELL rains certainly delayed the project, “This letter will serve as official no- looking at workforce reductions,” the lective bargaining agreements and Plans for the northside firehouse call Specially Written for Scotch Plains Fanwood Times but he [Mr. Del Sordi] stayed the tice that the Borough of Fanwood will mayor said. “matters relating to public safety and for a small addition at the rear of the SCOTCH PLAINS – Scotch Plains- course.” engage in a reduction of [work] force in Borough Administrator Eleanor property.” two-story building to house an area for Fanwood Board of Education offi- In other business, the meeting be- your department commencing on or McGovern said the borough’s labor cials said last Thursday that the in- gan with an instructional update on about August 1…The reason for the attorney recommended 45-day notices stallation of turf at the high school’s the Jump Start program, where Hope this layoff stems from economic and even though the borough is not legally football and soccer fields would be Swarts, program supervisor, intro- budgetary reasons,” according to the required to do so because it is not a civil Legislators Wrangle Over completed by mid-August. Voters in duced two teachers, Bernadette Hoyer letter. service town. the two communities approved a $2 and Alyssa Schuchard, who presented Mayor Colleen Mahr said, in a phone “No determination has been made million referendum in 2007. an overview of how the program is interview with The Times on Friday, [on the layoffs],” Ms. McGovern said. State Budget in Trenton The board’s facilities committee constructed. that despite some media reports, the “It won’t be everybody, it may not be By BETH BUDNICK from state aid to municipalities. This presented an update on the project, “We strive to create a high quality borough would not be cutting its entire anybody.” Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times year’s state aid appropriations reduce where the funding director of the turf learning environment,” Ms. Hoyer workforce. “We are not going to deci- Borough Councilman Anthony TRENTON — Governor Jon Corzine funds to municipalities below 10,000 committee presented a $20,888 check said. “We provide a balance between mate [the] Borough of Fanwood. This Parenti said, generally, the last person and the State Legislature agreed on in population by 25 percent, and the to Business Administrator Anthony child-initiated and adult-initiated ac- [the notice] is our way to communicate hired would be the first to be laid off. $32.8-billion budget for the 2008-2009 amount by municipalities with popula- Del Sordi for the project. tivities in our program,” the goal be- with our employees that we are in very “We are hoping we do get the aid and fiscal year Monday. This budget in- tions over 10,000 by 2.42 percent. Mr. Del Sordi said the district is ing to prepare children for making hard fiscal times.” then it won’t be as bad as it appears,” cludes cuts in state aid to municipali- “It’s a tight budget and a strong bud- “within the time frame to have both their own decisions. “We hope it [layoffs] will be very Mr. Parenti said. ties, such as Fanwood’s loss of funds get that reflects tough economic times,” fields completed by August 15.” He The Jump Start program is based minimal,” the mayor said. “I’m here The councilman laid the blame on “that we don’t have any control over,” said State Senator Nicholas Scutari (D- also said construction on the track on learning through play. Each class- five years and this is the most difficult Governor Jon Corzine, who he said is according to Mayor Colleen Mahr (see 22, Linden). One result of a tighter would continue after the graduation room has set up designated learning process we’ve had.” She called the pos- forcing higher property taxes by cut- Ted Ritter’s article on this page). budget is that “municipalities must ceremonies are held. Mr. Del Sordi centers where children are able to use sibility of layoffs “emotionally pain- ting state aid. He said the governor is Such measures are a part of Mr. tighten their belts,” he said. presented board members and the their individual creativity and imagi- ful.” saying he is cutting property taxes by Corzine’s “Financial Restructuring and Mr. Scutari also said this year’s bud- public with a slideshow highlighting nation to develop life lessons. The art The two-term mayor blamed the po- forcing tax levy caps on municipalities. Debt Reduction Plan.” Mr. Corzine said get was “almost historical” in its reduc- photographs taken throughout the center, dramatic play, toys and games tential layoffs on lower revenue projec- “When the layoff comes…if it comes, measures such as the budget cuts were tions of spending by a Democratic construction process. center, reading and writing center, tions, state program mandates, a 30 you have to have a plan and that’s what to account for the “$30-billion in debt majority. “Managing a project of this scope and the snack center all help to pro- percent hike in pension costs, rising we are doing,” Mr. Parenti said, noting and staggering unfunded pension and Officials stated that that aid reduc- is no small effort,” Superintendent of mote self-help skills and work on fuel and utility costs, and a cut in state the borough had to plan for the “worse healthcare liabilities” that New Jersey tion itself should not result in more Schools Margaret Hayes said. “The CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 aid figures. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 has “amassed,” according to his website. than a $100 increase over 2007 aver- Particularly important to Fanwood, age residential property taxes as cal- the budget cuts include $170 million CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Scholarship Winners Named By F-SP Rotary Club SCOTCH PLAINS – The The club also offers a special award Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club each year titled the “Turn Around members were joined for lunch by Award” given to the senior student the winners of this year’s rotary most improved in their grades and scholarships, on June 11, at the student activities since their junior Pantagis Renaissance Restaurant. year. School Superintendent Margaret The winner of the award, Rheana Hayes and Scotch Plains-Fanwood Rien, was not present at the luncheon. High School Principal David Heisey Robert Kraus, chairman of the were also present to congratulate the awards committee reaffirmed the students. presentation of the awards, and The students each gave a brief talk Blanchard Hiatt, Rotarian, awarded as to the colleges they would attend, the “Turn Around Award” plaque. their goals in life and some The awards were as follows: Ming Katherine Vowell for The Scotch Plains Fanwood Times remembrances of their years in high Lu, valedictorian; Lindsay Traiman, FUN IN THE SUN... After last week’s heat wave, grandfather and grandson, school. salutatorian and Rotary-Garbe residents of Scotch Plains, enjoy the day in Tamaques park. AWARDS…This year’s winners of Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club The Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Scholarship; Bailey Cordinol, Adele scholarships attend the award luncheon on June 11 at Pantagis Renaissance Club annually awards scholarships to deLeeux Scholarship; Marc PAGE INDEX Restaurant. Pictured, left to right, are: back row, Scotch Plains-Fanwood High Regional ...... 2-3 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-17 School Principal David Heisey, Marc L’Heureux, Ryan Bridge, SP-F deserving senior students, along with L’Heureux, Rotary-Garbe a prize to the valedictorian and Scholarship, and Ryan Bridge, Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 8-9, 17 Classifieds .... 17 Superintendent Margaret Hayes, Robert Kraus and Blanchard Hiatt; front row, Community ... 6-8 Sports ...... 11-16 A&E ...... 19-20 Ming Lu, Bailey Cordinol and Lindsay Traiman. salutatorian. Rotary-Garbe Scholarship. Page 10 Thursday, June 19, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Westfield Rescue Squad Member Receives Award WESTFIELD — Westfield Volun- three ambulances and is usually on teer Rescue Squad (WVRS) member duty Tuesday nights. Drew Fleyzor has received the Over- “This was quite an honor and it is a look Hospital EMT Excellence Award. pleasure to serve the community of The award, presented on May 30th, Westfield as an EMT and squad mem- was given in recognition of Mr. Fleyzor’s ber,” he said. “Outstanding service to EMS”. Prior to joining Westfield’s squad, Mr. Fleyzor is an emergency medi- Drew was a member of the Clark Vol- cal technician with five years experi- unteer First Aid Squad for two years. ence and has been a member of the He works at On Time Ambulance, WVRS for three years. He serves as based in Roselle, as an EMT, dis- lieutenant in charge of the squad’s patcher and recruiter.
Katherine Vowell for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times SPF Board of Education BECOMING AWARE...The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School displays a Courtesy of Jonathan Delano wrecked car to remind students not to drink and drive as graduation approaches. OUTSTANDING...Drew Fleyzor of the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad dis- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 plays the plaque he received on May 30, as part of the Overlook Hospital EMT various areas of development. place parts. Excellence Award. The program began when the dis- Research into a new health promo- trict received the Early Launch to tion kit started one year ago when POLICE BLOTTER Learning Initiative (ELLI) grant in Ms. Knodel-Gordon began survey- Scotch Plains Council 2004. Last year, two classes were of- ing other districts to find alternative fered at Brunner and Evergreen curriculums, and wanted to find a Westfield Saturday, June 14, Zyykirrah M. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Schools. Eligibility for the program is program that would cover and meet Tuesday, June 10, the apparent theft Casado, 23, of Plainfield was arrested Second Street, a portion of Westfield ers, some of whom have signed a peti- determined by age and residence, and everyone’s needs. of an Apple iPhone, valued at ap- for obstruction of justice for provid- Avenue and on both sides of Route 22. tion expressing their opposition to the priority is given to children with de- According to Ms. Knodel-Gordon, proximately $400, was reported at a ing police with false documentation The ordinance, which was introduced SID ordinance. velopmental needs or financial needs. on May 8, teacher representatives Stoneleigh Park residence. after a motor vehicle stop on North last week, includes a provision calling At last week’s council meeting, when The board unanimously approved from five schools met to discuss the Wednesday, June 11, Marcus Avenue. According to police, she was for a first year assessment of $400 on the ordinance was introduced, several the submission of the 2008-2009 ELLI new health promotion kit and were Rawls, 40, of Newark was arrested on processed and released after posting each property within the SID bound- opponents were in attendance under grant totaling $49,500, designated for happy with the results. Ms. Knodel- the 100 block of Prospect Street on a bail. aries. A 13-member board of directors, the mistaken impression that they would the Jump Start preschool program. Gordon described it as “a shoplifting offense and an outstand- Saturday, June 14, Nyeesha S. to be appointed if the ordinance is ap- be afforded an opportunity at that time Also on the evening’s agenda, so- multidisciplinary program” that helps ing Rutherford criminal warrant with Coleman, 19, of Plainfield was ar- proved, will decide future assessments. to voice their concerns. cial studies department supervisor to incorporate the state health re- bail of $130. Bail on the shoplifting rested following a motor vehicle stop As was the case four years ago when Mayor Martin Marks and Deputy Brad Siegel proposed three new so- quirements into the curriculum. offense was set at $1,000. Rawls was on North Avenue for an outstanding the council defeated a similar ordi- Mayor Nancy Malool told them that the cial studies textbooks to next year’s Following the committee reports, held at the Westfield Police Depart- warrant out of Minehill. According to nance, vocal opposition has arisen this public hearing on Tuesday, June 24, was curriculum and world languages su- the board passed the following mo- ment pending the posting of bail. police, she was processed and re- year among business and property own- the time for views on the SID to be aired. pervisor Linda Materna proposed six tions: submission of amendment to Friday, June 13, police arrested leased after posting bail. world language textbooks. These the Fiscal Year 2008 Individuals with Christina Wichoski, 18, Suzanna Sunday, June 15, Santiago Z. Vidal, motions will be voted on at next Disabilities Educations Act (IDEA) Cross, 19, Joshua Newberg, 21, and 48, of Westfield was arrested follow- week’s public meeting on Thursday, application, Superintendent recom- Mark Boyle, 21, all of Westfield, on ing a motor vehicle stop on South Fanwood Layoff Letter June 26. mendations for staff training reim- charges of possession of more than Avenue for outstanding warrants out CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Liz Knodel-Gordon, the high bursements, and the approval of bills 50 grams of suspected marijuana, of Bordentown and Newark. Accord- school’s substance abuse coordina- from May 7 to June 9, in the amount possession of cocaine, possession of ing to police, he was processed and case scenario” for both municipal em- tractor. Fanwood is also looking to the tor, came before the board with a of $2,744,303. a controlled dangerous substance in a released after posting bail. ployees and residents. county for grants to offset costs. proposal for a new health promotion Prior to the meeting’s closure, mem- school zone and possession of drug Sunday, June 15, a resident in the Mayor Mahr said the borough has Fanwood resident and former Demo- resource kit, which would replace the bers of the board offered congratula- paraphernalia. The arrests occurred 100 block of Westfield Road reported been in contact with Plainfield in ef- cratic Councilman David Pickering current “Here’s Looking At You 2000” tions to all students and staff that on the 500 block of Cumberland Street that someone removed a 10-foot dingy forts to save money on trash disposal spoke out against the possibility of kit. Ms. Knodel-Gordon said the cur- participated in the recent string of during the investigation of a suspi- valued at $4,000 from his property costs for seven municipal locations, borough employees being laid off at rent program is outdated and has be- chorale performances from the el- cious motor vehicle. All four were between the hours of 10 a.m. and 11 currently handled by an outside con- last week’s borough council meeting come expensive to update and re- ementary to high school level. released after processing. a.m. on June 10, before the letters were Saturday, June 14, after being Sunday, June 15, a resident of distributed. stopped for a motor vehicle violation, Woodland Avenue reported that some- During a phone interview on Mon- Lamar Ingram, 20, of Linden was one knocked down their free-stand- State Budget day, Mr. Pickering said he is “strongly arrested at North and South Euclid ing mailbox. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 opposed” to the decision the council Avenues on an active warrant out of Monday, June 16, a resident of culated by the Division of Local Gov- has made. He said Fanwood could avoid Linden. Scotch Plains reported that someone ernment Services. However, this pre- these job cuts without “extraordinary Scotch Plains keyed their vehicle while it was parked ventative measure does little to coun- aid from the state.” Tuesday, June 10, a resident of in the 100 block of Pleasant Avenue. teract that “this budget directly in- Mr. Pickering suggested Fanwood Spruce Lane reported that someone Monday, June 16, a resident of the creases people’s property tax and in- charge residents for their yearly cleanup, used his credit card without authori- 100 block of Chetwood Place reported creases people’s utility bills” while as Scotch Plains does yearly. He also zation to purchase $700 worth of that sometime between midnight, “not going far enough in more effi- recommended that residents be billed merchandise. Friday, May 30, and noon, Sunday, ciently spending people’s money,” separately for their sewer fees. By tak- Wednesday, June 11, a resident of June 15, someone attempted to enter said Senator Tom Kean, Jr. (R-21, ing these two steps, Mr. Pickering said East Second Street reported that some- their residence through a side door. Westfield). many jobs could be saved. one has been calling her during the Police said entry was not gained. “The budget is reneging on a prom- “I think the public needs to be aware,” day and night but just yells and hangs Mountainside ise to start phasing out a high utility he said. “This is totally wrong and not up. Friday, June 13, Victor A. Soria, tax,” Mr. Kean said. Moreover, the necessary. They don’t realize how hard- Thursday, June 12, a resident of 48, of Plainfield was arrested and 2008-2009 budget calls for tax in- working these people are, a lot of them, Highlander Drive reported that some- charged with driving without a li- creases “at a time when people are at the end of the day, volunteer.” one entered her vehicle and removed cense after being involved in a motor hurting the most.” “I don’t want to see Fanwood change, several items valued at $200. vehicle accident on Route 22. He was Thursday, June 12, a resident of also charged with multiple outstand- “This budget, unlike the one pro- it can’t. It’s too good of a place,” he said. YOUNG TALENT…Last Saturday, at the Ashbrook Nursing and Rehabilitation posed by the Republicans, is not mak- Center in Scotch Plains, students from Roosevelt Intermediate School voluntar- Aberdeen reported that someone en- ing warrants, police said. ing New Jersey more affordable,” said MS Taxes Increase ily performed for residents. Pictured, from left to right, are: Mathew Lee, tered her vehicle and removed ap- Friday, June 14, Ferdinan Mr. Kean, saying the budget fails to Stephanie Tepper, Alexandra Davidson, Alexandra Jason, Keith Peterson, Pilar proximately $100 worth of items. Maysonet, 52, of Jersey City was focus on transportation or the state’s $800 K in Budget Martinez, Sabrina Greene, Connor Breza, Victoria Bonsall, Rebecca Tunis, Sunday, June 15, Tajah Bacot, 18, of arrested and charged with driving with infrastructure needs. Moreover, “no- By EBONY McQUEEN Elizabeth Queisser, Alexander Rothfelder, Audrey Peterson, Caroline Ehrhardt, Middlesex was arrested for obstruc- a suspended license after being body really knows what’s in [the bud- Specially Written for the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Kieran Windorf and conductor Brice Freeman. tion of justice after police responded stopped for allegedly being involved get],” he said. MOUNTAINSIDE — The to a report of a rowdy group in front of in a motor vehicle crash. Mr. Kean’s statements echo cri- Mountainside Borough Council Tues- a store on Route 22. While dispersing Saturday, June 14, Michelle C. Lee, tiques of the budget in the recent day adopted its $10.5 million munici- Mountainside Denies the crowd, Bacot became loud and 28, of Plainfield was arrested for an weeks. The 2008-2009 budget has pal budget in unanimous fashion. refused to leave the area, police said. outstanding warrant in the amount of sparked controversy from many Of the $10.5 million budget, roughly According to police, he was processed $165 after a motor vehicle stop on groups in addition to municipalities, $6.59 million will be raised through Arirang’s Expansion Plan and released after posting bail. Route 22. such as housing, environmental, la- local property taxes, an increase of By CAROLYN D. FREUNDLICH corporating a buffer to accommodate Sunday, June 15, police responded Sunday, June 15, Michael P. bor and student organizations. roughly $800,000 from 2007. Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times the nearby residents, because of the to a report of a disturbance at a Route O’Connor, 22, of Westfield was ar- Accordingly, municipalities are not The levy’s $44,000 reduction was MOUNTAINSIDE — The plan- increased business the banquet hall 22 gas station. Upon arrival, police rested and charged with DWI after alone in feeling the cuts. For example, caused due to an increase in state aid ning board, last Thursday, unani- would potentially generate, and the discovered a customer arguing with being involved in a one-car motor the 2008-2009 measures cut more and an increase in the surplus. mously denied Arirang Hibachi traffic that would increase in the resi- an attendant over how much gas was vehicle accident. than $90 million from subsidies for In a separate matter, a PODS (Por- Steakhouse and Sushi Bar’s submit- dential streets. He said he believes pumped and the price to be paid, Sunday, June 15, Trevorald Parrish, hospitals. table On Demand Storage) representa- tal for a use variance, after a two- taking away parking lot spaces and police said. According to police, the 19, of Plainfield was arrested and But despite complaints, Mr. Scutari tive, Orlando Silva, addressed the bor- year-long debate. The restaurant adding shrubbery to the outskirts of officer settled the dispute and the charged with driving with a suspended said the budget leaders had done “an ough council concerning an ordinance wanted to expand its business by turn- the parking lot can accomplish this. customer agreed to pay the money. license and leaving the scene of an excellent job forging a strong bud- that would restrict the use and place- ing the 12,000 square feet of unused Mr. Chadwick said basically anything Sunday, June 15, Lamont Moseley, accident after being involved in a get.” ment of PODS. space in the basement into a banquet that gives “a hint of something other 23, of Hackensack was arrested and motor vehicle accident on Route 22, As of press time, calls were placed Mr. Silva said, “At times, we do hall. The banquet hall would accom- than a big parking lot” would be de- charged with driving while intoxi- which he is suspected to have been to Assemblywoman Linda Stender struggle with placing the PODS where modate an additional 207 patrons. sirable. He said this would give back cated (DWI) after being stopped for a the driver. (LD-2, Fanwood) and Assemblyman the resident asks for it. We understand The board has lingered on the con- to the community by offering “a dra- motor vehicle violation. He was trans- According to police, officers no- Jon Bramnick (LD-21, Westfield) who and we would not want a PODS (unit) troversial topic for about two years, matically different effect of the road- ported to headquarters where he was ticed a car behind a business on Route were in Trenton negotiating budget causing an accident.” holding numerous meetings to dis- side view of this property”. processed and released with a sum- 22 that had crashed through a fence. measures and not available for com- The ordinance, which passed on Tues- cuss the possibilities. Numerous Beech Avenue residents mons, police said. While turning around to inspect the ment. day, stipulates that residents must ap- Arirang is a restaurant located at were in strong opposition to Arirang’s Monday, June 16, Albert Hopkins, scene further, police noticed three The budget is currently going ply for a permit and pay a $50 fee prior 1230 Route 22, West. Behind Arirang, expansion, and said they did not feel 46, of Brooklyn, NY was arrested and individuals inspecting a car parked in through last stages of process, and is to placing the storage container on prop- parallel to Route 22, lies Beech Av- the buffer suggested by Mr. Chadwick charged with DWI after being stopped a closed service station, authorities set for a final passage on Monday, erty. The unit may not sit on a property enue, a heavily populated, residential was a fair proposal. Currently, the for a motor vehicle violation. He was said. According to police, the three according to the Star-Ledger. The longer than 30 days. district. Many residents of Beech residents are frustrated with the transported to headquarters where he individuals stated that their car was state budget is required by state con- Borough resident, Ed LaTourette, of Avenue and the surrounding area op- amount of problems the restaurant was processed and released with a sideswiped by the vehicle that they stitution to be in place by July 1. Dunn Parkway, spoke of concerns re- posing the application have regularly generates due to its popularity, and summons, police said. witnessed crashing in to the fence. Asw. Linda Stender told The garding a borough-owned easement for attended the meetings. said they feel an expansion of the Fanwood Parrish was apprehended approxi- Leader/Times on Wednesday, “We are storm water runoff. In order to get a full understanding restaurant would increase their com- Wednesday, June 11, Robert Roy, mately a mile down Route 22 along working very hard to develop a bud- He said over the last 15 years the of Arirang’s legal capacity for expan- plaints. Jr., 28, of Roselle was arrested on a with a juvenile and Asion K. Harris, get that ends the practice of spending easement has increased by 15 feet in sion, experts were called to testify in The residents blame the restaurant’s Union County Sheriff’s Department 19, of Scotch Plains, who was ar- beyond our means and begins to solve width and is destroying his deck. front of the planning board through- popularity for the influx of suspi- no-bail warrant after a field investi- rested and charged with leaving the some of New Jersey’s financial chal- Mayor Robert Viglianti advised Mr. out the last two years. During last cious behavior, drunken patrons and gation on Martine Avenue. Accord- scene of a motor vehicle accident and lenges while still protecting the most LaTourette to contact borough engi- Thursday’s meeting, John Chadwick robberies on their street. Also the ing to police, he was turned over to failure to report a motor vehicle acci- vulnerable members of our popula- neer Mike Disko. and Harold K. Maltz testified and restaurant provides an unwanted the Union County Sheriff’s Depart- dent after he was apprehended by tion. I believe that we are close to The council concluded the meeting provided their opinions. amount of noise and trash, and lights ment. police in the vicinity of the accident. achieving these goals but we still by going into executive session to dis- Mr. Chadwick is a licensed profes- from cars often shine into resident’s have some work to do.” cuss an employee benefit program. sional planner, who has previously homes, residents said. overseen hundreds of planning Local residents said they feel the boards. Taking spatial and traffic regu- traffic on Beech Avenue, as proposed lations into consideration, he said he by the new parking plan, stands to believes the restaurant needs to imple- endanger their families. ment several changes in order to ex- Jacquie Mahon, Beech Avenue resi- pand. If Arirang had strictly valet dent, said there are no sidewalks on parking, it would be able to expand the street and her children often play parking from 184 to 205 spaces. If the outside at night. She spoke out against restaurant voted against valet park- the proposed plan. ing, another option to accommodate “Instead of living next to 22, they the additional patronage, and use all are bringing 22 to my house,” Ms. 205 spaces, would be to hire people to Mahon said. direct traffic through the parking lot. She said this would possibly en- This would change the previous clock- danger her children, and the numer- wise traffic flow into a counter clock- ous other children that live on the wise direction, thus filtering traffic street by exposing them to increased out of the back exit onto Beech Av- chances of getting hit by a car or enue. abducted. This traffic flow and exit strategy would safely allow for emergency vehicles to enter and exit the pre- mises. Raynor Denitzio for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Mr. Maltz, traffic and transporta- AMELIA BEDELIA…At Brunner School, author Herman Parish carries on the DRAWING THE LINE…Union County Police Officer Frank Catena rides his tion consulting expert, agreed with misadventures of Amelia Bedelia, created by his Aunt Peggy Parish. Mr. Parish horse, Justice, during Substance Abuse Awareness Day in Garwood on Saturday. Mr. Chadwick’s proposals of valet revealed where the character Amelia Bedelia came from, and explained where he Hosted by Garwood Parents Draw the Line, the event enabled residents to enjoy parking or regulated traffic within the gets his ideas. A surprise visit by Amelia Bedelia was a highlight of the day. Five rides, games and demonstrations from local police agencies. Sue Baron, an lucky students had lunch with Mr. Parish. Pictured, in the bottom row, are: Zach organizer of the event, said that the purpose of the day was “to show what a fun parking lot. Carter, Mary Hubbard and Micayla Mirabella. Top row: Amelia Bedelia (Mary family day you can have without drugs.” Mr. Chadwick also suggested in- goleader.com/subscribe Kay Cunningham) Jonathan Kriney, Francesca Dobies and Herman Parish. Page 2 Thursday, June 19, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Gov. Nominates Hunnicutt Downtown Westfield For State Comm. Position Summer Activities Reviewed By MICHAEL J. POLLACK “keep up.” WESTFIELD — The Downtown two-sided clock mechanism. Mr. Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times In addition, she works to help the Westfield Corporation (DWC) an- Verdic funded the restoration. WESTFIELD – After being tapped disabled community overcome ste- nounced summer activities, business Tuesday night jazz will take place for a position on the State Employ- reotypes that they face from prospec- additions and closings, streetscape from 7 to 9 p.m. on sidewalks and ment Training Commission (SETC), tive employers. improvements, historic clock repair street corners, for nine consecutive Westfield’s Alice Hunnicutt explained Often, employers worry about the and parking updates. weeks from July 1 through August how her time spent helping the dis- costs of extra accommodations for a Summer events downtown will in- 26. Rain dates will be the following abled community has prepared her disbaled person, and informing them clude the 12th Annual Sweet Sounds Wednesday evenings at the same time. for what is to come. of their relative inexpensiveness is a Jazz Festival to be held every Tues- Bands will be located on Central Saying she is “very excited to have key role of Ms. Hunnicutt’s work, she day night in July and August. The 7th Avenue in front of the former Bombay a voice at the table,” Ms. Hunnicutt said. Annual Downtown Westfield 5K and Company, the lawn in front of the North sat down with The Westfield Leader Governor Thomas Kean established Pizza Extravaganza will be held on Avenue Train Station, the corner of and Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times, the non-partisan SETC in 1990, to Wednesday, July 23. East Broad and North Avenue and at last Friday, to discuss her role on the “provide each citizen of the state with Melinda Lane, specializing in Elm Street in front of the Baptist Church, commission. equal access to the learning opportu- ’tween apparel and accessories “for DWC assistant director Beth The Westfield Board of Education nities needed to attain and maintain the young, fun, fashionable girl,” Brenner said, “We have a mix of great member said a general function of high levels of productivity and earn- opened at 208 Lenox Avenue next to bands, which played in past festivals, her role on the commision is to assist ing power.” Bittersweet Designs. as well as new bands this year. Sweet those with disabilities and their fami- After the nomination by Governor Allstate Financial and Insurance Sounds has become so popular that lies in the search for employment Jon Corzine, Ms. Hunnicutt now A “HAND” IN NEED…John Panosh, town bell master and curator of the Services relocated to 519 South Av- we have to turn away many talented following high school. awaits “senatorial consent” from State Westfield Town Clock, holds the plaque displaying 156 names of businesses and enue W. at the Route 28 circle. groups.” Ms. Hunnicutt said with her work Senators Tom Kean, Jr. of Westfield, residents who contributed to the 1993 restoration of the Town Clock. Tax- With a Cherry on Top ice cream The schedule of performers is: on the Statewide Parenting Advocacy Nicholas Scutari of Linden and deductible donations are once again sought to upgrade the clock. store opened at 210 South Avenue W July 1: Full Count Big Band, Ron Network (SPAN), where she helping Raymond Lesniak of Elizabeth, which (next to Manhattan Bagel). Kraemer and The Hurricanes, Arturo those with special needs, that she can she expects to occur shortly. La Belle Vie, a European fashion with Alison Kalaher, and Nicole Hart lend a “voice” to those with disabili- The commission meets formally Funds Sought to Upgrade accessories business, opened at 15 and the NRG Band. ties. between six and eight times annually, East Broad Street (next to G.O. July 8: Marlene VerPlank, Roamin Ms. Hunnicutt stressed that for a but sub-committees meet more fre- Keller’s and across from PNC Bank). Gabriels, Eric Mintel Quartet and large percentage of the disabled com- quently throughout the year. Ms. Circa 1886 Town Clock Huggins Flooring opened at 406 Richard Reiter Swing Band. munity, joining the workforce after Hunnicutt will serve as a volunteer, WESTFIELD — The October 1993 ished in 1910, to make way for the W. Broad Street (across from July 15: David Aaron Quintet, high school is “just as good of an earning no salary or pension. restoration of the Westfield Town current edifice. The clock was moved Westfield Auto Wash). Scarlett Moore, Taino and Mike outcome” as going to college. Ms. Hunnicutt said that as a mother Clock was the first since new hands to its new home with only two dials Staples Print and Copy Shop will Kaplan Nonet. “I feel strongly that they should of children with disabilities that she were installed on the dials in the early and the huge 2,048-lb. bell. open at 225 E. Broad Street in the July 22: Linda Ipanema, Gordon have every opportunity to become can speak authoritatively to parents 1940’s. Before that time, little atten- Still looking out over the plaza and former location of Kaybee Toys. James, Bob DeVos Organ Trio and taxpayers and have a job, not be de- about the entire process and “reach tion was paid to this 1886 E. Howard the town center, as it has for 122 Verizon Wireless will open at 109 Grupo Yuri. pendent on public assistance,” Ms. them in a way that a person who is tower clock. years, the dials and wooden hands North Avenue W. in the former loca- July 29: B. D. Lenz, Carrie Jackson, Hunnicutt told The Leader and The credentialed, but hasn’t experienced According to John Panosh, town have endured weather conditions of tion of Blockbuster. Karl Lathan Group and Butterball. Times. [it first-hand], couldn’t.” bell master and curator of the all sorts. The 14-karat gold plating of Gaucho’s BBQ and Grill has closed August 5: Jennifer Wright, Sarah She said those with disabilities ben- Between 49 and 51 million indi- Westfield Town Clock, the clock, sig- the hands, numerals and minute at 615 South Avenue W. Partridge, Emilio Teubal and La efit from a sense of autonomy gained viduals nationwide are classified as nificant in Westfield’s history, and marks, which make the dials visible Fitness Together, 222 North Av- Balteuband, and Radam Schwartz. through working. In addition to help- having special needs, and Ms. which strikes each hour, still runs by from long distances, are showing the enue W. has relocated to Cranford August 12: Swingadelic, Chuck ing the disabled leap over the inher- Hunnicutt said this “underutilized pendulum movement and weekly test of time and climate, Mr. Panosh (now The Next Step in Fitness). Lambert Band, Cobra Brothers and ent hurdles they face, Ms. Hunnicutt, segment of the population” deserves winding. said, noting that some minute marks Allied Business Machines, serving Glenn Alexander. oftentimes, must stress to parents that a chance. When it was purchased, not long have loosened and the black dials the community for 37 years at 301 August 19: Summit Stompers, they not “overprotect” their children. Assisting people with disabilities after the end of the Civil War, using need to be “spruced up.” The minute South Avenue W. has relocated to Sandy Mack Band, Lauren Schub “They should have that dignity to is one element of the SETC, which funds and donations raised from 1885 hand on the West dial is warping and Clark. Trio and Chris Colaneri Quartet. go out and get a paycheck. It’s excit- works to establish one-stop career to 1886, by the citizens and busi- in danger of a “slow death.” Artifacts by Elise, 129 E. Broad August 26: Dr. Dubious and the ing,” she said. centers, tackle issues of diversity and nesses of Westfield, the Town of Donations are being sought to un- St., has closed its second location in Agnostics, Scott Hunter and The Soul Ms. Hunnicutt said her job involves equity, and promote adult literacy, Westfield chose to place the clock, derwrite the repairs estimated at Westfield. Searchers, Stringbean and the Stalk- not only equipping the disabled com- among other goals. with its then four dials, in a central $8,000. The Town Clock Fund, estab- According to DWC Director Sherry ers, and the Dave Leonhardt Trio. munity with the skills and training Henry Plotkin, executive director location and near the busy railroad, lished in 1993, once again will accept Cronin, some of the vacant stores in While listening to the music, pa- necessary to join the work world, but of the SETC, said, “As the economy Mr. Panosh said. donations of any amount. town are normal, but the town is in trons are invited to dine at Westfield’s also assuaging the fears of businesses evolves...we need policies and pro- It was the town’s decision in 1886, Those wishing to help make the high demand with retailers – Although restaurants, shop, and stroll through that are hesitant to hire those with grams to meet those needs.” in agreement with the Church’s trust- 2008 restoration possible should mail too early to disclose, new stores will the downtown. special needs. “She [Ms. Hunnicutt] was respon- ees, to make the Methodist Church donations to: The Town Clock Fund, open soon. Free one-hour parking tokens are “We serve two customers,” Ms. sible for giving persons with dis- caretakers of the clock wherein it C/O The First United Methodist The improvement plan for South available at many retail stores down- Hunnicutt said, explaining that, as a abilities a fair shake,” Mr. Plotkin would also assume responsibility for Church, One East Broad Street, Avenue streetscapes is underway to town. member of SPAN, she helps to ensure said. “It’s a labor of love for Alice, maintenance. Westfield, N.J. 07090. Donations are include both sides of the street from The Town of Westfield has com- that those with disabilities receive and we’re thrilled to have her on The First Methodist (Episcopal) tax deductible. Visit the church Central Avenue to Westfield Avenue. pleted renovations to municipal Park- job coaching, so that they are able to board. It’s a wonderful appointment.” Church building of 1877, was demol- website at fumcwestfield.org. The work will include new sidewalks, ing Lot 1, including adding spaces lighting, landscaping and crosswalks. and conversion of over 100 spaces to The bidding process will take place short-term use. The layout, lighting, soon and construction is expected in landscape and drainage have been late summer of 2008. improved. Additional pay stations The clock hanging on the building have been installed. A drive-through over the corner of Elm and E. Broad connection between Elm and Pros- streets since the 1930’s is being re- pect streets has been added. stored following its recent malfunc- Parking is free in non-numbered tion. According to Ms. Cronin, build- permit spaces after noon in Lot 3, at ing owner Dominick Verdic (DWC the South Avenue train station, Mon- Chairman) took the clock down al- day through Friday. Parking is free on most two years ago in hopes of restor- Saturdays in non-numbered permit ing it. spaces in Lots 3, 6 and 9. DPW employee Richard Edge, Jack On-street parking meters have a Gordin of Gordin and Sons Jewelers 10-minute free button if the meter is and Mr. Verdic spearheaded restora- expired. tion of the clock. It should be rein- Parking is free everywhere on Sun- stalled soon. Mr. Edge managed the days and holidays. project, restored and repainted the For more information about down- housing and engaged electrician Frank town events in Westfield, call the Chestnut to replace the connections DWC at (908) 789-9444, or see and lighting. Mr. Gordin replaced the WestfieldToday.com. WKA D ZHQJHU NRLV ARCHITECTURE DESIGN
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For More Information: 908-272-0200 www.dhplaw.net A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, June 19, 2008 Page 3 Morin Elected to Third Peyton's Merkt: Residents May Not Term as GOP Chairman Peek at the Week Get to Vote on Future Debt By PAUL J. PEYTON year,” Mr. Morin told The Westfield In Politics Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times TRENTON — Assemblyman Ri- passes,” Mr. Merkt said. He said the Leader and The Scotch Plains- By Paul Peyton of The Leader/Times chard Merkt (LD-25, Randolph) said OLS concluded that the proposed CRANFORD — Union County Fanwood Times following the meet- last week that two legal opinions he amendment would also be “ineffec- Republican Party Chairman Phil ing at the Orange Avenue School in Meet The Press Host Russert The Wall Street Journal reported received from the nonpartisan Office tive” in preventing $38 billion in new Morin was reappointed, June 10, to a Cranford. that Mr. Johnson had received $7 mil- of Legislative Services (OLS) con- borrowing proposed by Governor third, two-year term. The Cranford He said turnout was likely reduced Remembered By Industry firm that a debt “reform” resolution, Corzine, to be issued through his Members of the mass media and lion in home loans — some of which resident was unopposed in his quest. due to a heat wave with temperatures may have been below average market approved by a Senate committee on “Public Benefit Corporation” with- Mr. Morin and his slate of officers reaching 100 degrees by 6:30 p.m. at elected officials, including President June 9, would not guarantee that fu- out voter approval, as part of his toll George W. Bush, remembered NBC’s rates — from Countrywide Financial, were appointed by a tally of 103-0. the start of registration for the meeting. a partner of Fannie Mae and a leading ture debt would be put before voters road “monetization” initiative. The Union County Republican Party “Tonight is just the beginning of “Meet The Press” host Tim Russert, after it is passed by the Legislature. Mr. Merkt said the proposed amend- who died Friday of a massive heart purveyor of sub prime mortgages. Mr. committee has over 330 members. another two-year process,” he said. Johnson, who was to head the com- “The truth is, Trenton remains ruled ment would not guarantee the people Appointed along with Mr. Morin Mr. Morin said he was encouraged attack while in NBC’s studios. He by a self-centered, self-serving and of New Jersey a vote on more than had just returned from a vacation in mittee, led John Kerry’s Vice Presi- were Kenilworth Mayor Kathi this year by the decision of the cam- dent selection panel in 2004. self-perpetuating political elite that $40 billion in new borrowing cur- Fiamingo, vice-chairman; John paign of likely Republican Presidential Italy with his wife, Maureen, and son, has no interest in listening to the will rently proposed in Trenton. Luke, to celebrate Luke’s graduation Former Deputy Attorney General DeSimone of Clark, associate vice- nominee, Senator John McCain, to open Eric Holder and Caroline Kennedy, of the people of New Jersey,” said Mr. “The state presently owes $35 bil- chairman; Patricia Quattrocchi of a New Jersey office in Woodbridge. He from Boston College. Merkt, the Republican Appropriations lion in long-term debt, so this means Prior to joining NBC in 1984, Mr. the daughter of former President John Garwood, associate vice-chairman; said the New Jersey grass roots coordi- F. Kennedy, are the remaining mem- Officer. “It is willing to create the that state-authorized debt could more William McClintock of Scotch Plains, nator for the McCain Campaign is a Russert was press secretary for former illusion of democracy by proposing a than double over the next couple of New York Governor Mario Cuomo bers of the vice presidential pick panel. treasurer, and Westfield Councilman Berkeley Heights resident. NJEA Takes Ads Out Critical meaningless constitutional amend- years without the people’s consent, James Foerst, secretary. Looking at possible gains on the (D-NY) and chief of staff for the late ment, because it will take years for even if the proposed amendment to “[It] was as smooth of an election county level, Mr. Morin said the party Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D- Of Pension, Health Care Cuts The New Jersey Education Asso- most folks to figure out that the the state constitution is ratified,” he as I could have expected. But the wants to “build for next year,” a Gu- NY). He hosted Meet The Press for amendment does not work and that stated. “The only way to achieve true work is ahead of us. It’s a big election bernatorial election year. 17 years, the longest run for a mod- ciation (NJEA) has been running ad- vertisements critical of a Democratic they have been swindled. Meanwhile, reform on state debt is to pass a com- erator in the show’s 60-year history. tens of billions of dollars in new bonds prehensive constitutional ban on any Dobbs Says He Won’t Run legislative package of bills to revamp pension and health care benefits for will be issued, the money will be state-authorized borrowing, whether Westfield Hist. Society Sets For Governor in New Jersey spent, and the public will be left hold- direct or indirect, without the people’s The Associated Press has reported future public employees, according to The Associated Press. ing the bag – all business as usual.” prior approval in a referendum.” that Lou Dobbs, host of CNN’s Lou Mr. Merkt said the two legal opin- He said a GOP plan has been “buried” Dobbs Tonight, has denied reports that Governor Jon Corzine initially pro- Reeve House Renovation posed incentives to 3,000 state work- ions from OLS concluded that the in a state committee by Democrats. WESTFIELD – The Westfield His- erty on the National Register of His- he is considering running as a Repub- proposed amendment would not stop lican for Governor of New Jersey next ers to save $457 million within three torical Society has been working on the toric Places in July 2005. Through years, but would increase pension either more school construction debt GOP Holds Conference historic Reeve House project located at research, some important inhabitants year. A Sussex County resident, he has or toll road “monetization” debt from been registered as an Independent since costs by $517 million. Legislators On GOP Caucus Policy 314 Mountain Avenue. In the last sev- of the property included Brig. Gen- said they want to balance that plan being issued without voter approval. eral months, asbestos abatement, mold eral John Myrick, from 1841 to 1855; 2006, after changing from a Republi- According to OLS’s first opinion, WESTFIELD — Assemblyman Jon can. with benefit cuts for newly hired work- remediation, removal of oil tanks, soil William Stitt, the proprietor of the ers, while eliminating benefits for the New Jersey Supreme Court is Bramnick (LD-21, Westfield), chair- remediation and roof repairs have taken Westfield Hotel, from 1872 to 1898; Obama’s VP Panel Head Quits unlikely to require any additional state man of the Assembly Republican Over Mortgage Controversy part-time workers. place, in addition to the exterior car- William Edgar Reeve, who purchased Legislators, Corzine Reach borrowing for school construction to Policy Committee, was set to hold a pentry and painting work. the property in 1906, and lived there James Johnson, a former Fannie go to the voters for approval. press conference at the Statehouse in Several contractors have helped and until his death in 1962, and, subse- Mae chief executive, resigned on June Agreement on Budget “As a result, New Jersey voters will Trenton at press deadline yesterday on provided generous in-kind donations, quently, his son Edgar Reeve, who 11, from Senator Barack Obama’s State legislators have reached an have no say in Governor Jon Corzine’s the new Republican Caucus Policy including: Star Painting, TMG Engi- occupied the house until his death in vice presidential search committee agreement on the state budget with proposal to indebt them for yet an- Perspective. The conference was to neering, Sherwin-Williams, Gemini December 2001. following controversy over low-in- Governor Jon Corzine. Some $20 other $2.5 billion for school con- outline the GOP’s policy, including Electric, Atlas, Paul Davis Restora- The Reeve House was deeded to terest home loans and lucrative busi- million in aid to towns and hospitals, struction in the Abbott Districts, re- budget alternatives, healthcare, the tion, Oil Tank Services, Vincent Perry the Town of Westfield in 1985, from ness deals, according to the Houston and $9 million to keep state parks gardless of whether or not the pro- Council on Affordable Housing and Bartlett Tree Service. Ralph and Edgar Reeve, the only de- Chronicle’s website. open, have been restored. posed constitutional amendment (COAH) and the environment. Most recently, the enclosed side scendents of the Reeve family. The porch from the 1930’s was removed deed was contingent upon the agree- to restore the original wraparound ment that Edgar Reeve would live the porch, which was built with the rest of his life in the house and that the Store Open house in 1875. After soliciting sev- town would use the property only for Sunday eral bids, Regal Restoration of charitable, municipal or other public Wines & Spirits Westfield was awarded the work for non-profit purposes. the porch and Thomas DiGiorgio of The fundraising campaign is un- Westfield is the architect oversee- derway for the rehabilitation and res- 333 South Ave. East , Westfield, NJ • (908) 232-8700 ing the work. toration of an Italianate-style 1875 VISIT OUR The items Prices effective through Tues., July 1, 2008 Karrie Hanson, chair of the Build- residence and an addition of an ar- TEMPERATURE below are Many items are in short supply, please shop early. ing Design Committee, said, “Re- chives building on 1.62 acres adja- Sunrise Cellars CONTROLLED on Sale! storing the porch to its original state cent to Mindowaskin Park. WINE CELLAR is significant because not only does The Reeve property will become a the Wine Department at it demonstrate our commitment to new historic and cultural center for ShopRite Wines and Spirits of Westfield Debit historic preservation, but it engages the community and a permanent home Cards our imagination. ‘Meet me at the for the Westfield Historical Society Reeve House, Meet me on the porch’ museum and an extensive collection ShopRite Wines & Spirits has always been synonymous with great prices, WINE variety and service. We carry the finest wines for the most discriminating SPECTATOR has become our slogan to energize of archives. A carriage house will palate at impressive prices. 90 POINTS the membership and future mem- link to the house for handicapped bers for all the possibilities that will accessibility, and humidity and tem- WINE begin on the porch,” she added. “We perature control will be added for the Conundrum 2006 SPECTATOR are imagining a plethora of new more delicate archives. Soft tropical notes of guava and cherimoya, also peach and honeysuckle. The rich 92 POINTS WINE SPECTATOR programs: walking tours, engage- Tax-deductible contributions perfume is supported by concentrated and focused layers of peach and apricot 90 POINTS nectar, pear and green melon with spicy vanilla notes. The creamy 90 ment of Westfield students and lead- may be sent to Westfield Historical $ ers of its important history and Society, P.O. Box 613, Westfield, texture and balanced acidity carries through the palate for a long finish. 21.99 more.” N.J. 07091. To volunteer, call (908) The Westfield Historical Society 654-1794, or e-mail Joseph Phelps Napa Cabernet 2005 obtained a listing for the Reeve Prop- [email protected]. Smooth-textured, supple and harmonious, with subtle layers of currant, spice, herb, anise and light cedary oak, ending with a graceful mix of ripe fruit and fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2013. $39.99 Chimney Rock Cabernet Stags Leap 2005 Elegant and supple, showing herb, tobacco and tea-laced currant and black cherry flavors that are complex and well-proportioned, with a long, lingering finish. $39.99
95-100 ...... Classic Allegrini Amarone 2003 VINTAGE 90-94 . . . .Outstanding Reveals a super-opulent, engaging texture packed with sweet cocoa, dark fruit, cassis, 85-89 . . . . . Very Good RATING 80-84 ...... Good blackberries, roasted coffee beans and licorice. It finishes with notable length and SCALE: 70-79 ...... Average surprising finish for the vintage. This medium to full-bodied wine is an SCALE: 60-69 . . .Below Average $ outstanding example of a more restrained, clean style of Amarone. 64.99
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MORE GREAT WINE VALUES Wine Advocate: 92 $15.99 Pio Cesare La Crema Barolo 2003 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2006 Sincerity Organic Wines Has fabulous blackberry and Merlot/Cabernet Chardonnay 2004 mineral, with hints of toasty Engaging aromas of ripe, round 90 Sauvignon 2003 With plenty of power and style, oak. Full-bodied, with chewy cherry, floral notes, spicy clove and With depth of fruit and lushness, butterscotch, apple and almond tannins and a long, long licorice. Cherry continues in the Wine coffee, popcorn and chocolate smother the bouquet while exotic finish. Very concentrated, yet mouth, melding with rich plum, Enthusiast appear throughout its creamy, rich pear and banana flavors blend racy and structured... orange peel and tea leaves over a profile. Along the way, berry and harmoniously with clean toasty Gorgeous. Best after 2009. mouth-watering jamminess. Balanced Points cassis flavors thrive. barrel notes. Quite impressive. acidity and firm tannins round out a Wine Spectator : 91 $49.99 long, lingering finish. $17.99 M-F 10:00 – 5:30 • Thurs. til 7:30 Your Choice! $13.99 Prices established by ShopRite Wines & Spirts of Westfield, 333 South Ave., (908) 232-8700. All sizes are 750 ML unless otherwise noted. Prices and products featured are available only at participating Sat. 10:00 – 5:00 ShopRite Wines & Spirits stores listed above. Not responsible for typographical errors. In the event of errors the lowest price allowed by N.J. State Law will apply. Prices do not include sales tax. None sold to other retailers or wholesalers. Artwork does not necessarily represent items on sale. It is for display purposes only. Effective Wed., June 11 thru Tues., July 1, 2008. Page 4 Thursday, June 19, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION ABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ The Westfield Leader The Scotch Plains–Fanwood Scotch Plains Township Times Since 1959 Special Improvement District — Established 1890 — DD Legal Newspaper for the Town of Westfield, Legal Newspaper for the Borough of Fanwood Questions and Answers DTM Boroughs of Mountainside and Garwood And the Township of Scotch Plains D And the County of Union, NJ. Diction Deception Members of: Councilwoman Nancy Malool Below are four arcane words, each New Jersey Press Association • National Newspaper Association • Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce with four definitions – only one is correct. Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association • Fanwood Business & Professional Association On June 24, the Scotch Plains Town- determine how such fees are handled. The others are made up. Are you sharp ship Council will be voting on an ordi- Who is on the board of directors? The enough to discern this deception of dic- Periodicals – Postage Paid at Westfield, New Jersey Periodicals – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, New Jersey nance to create a Special Improvement board is comprised of 13 people from the tion? P.O. Box 250 • 251 North Avenue, West P. O. Box 368 District (SID). In the past, there has following areas: three business or prop- If you can guess one correctly – good Westfield, N.J. 07091 Scotch Plains, N.J. 07076 been a great deal of misinformation erty owners from Park Avenue; two busi- guess. If you get two – well-read indi- Tele: (908) 232-4407 • E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.goleader.com • Fax: (908) 232-0473 circulated about a SID – some of it ness or property owners from Front Street; vidual. If you get three – word expert. If produced by people who genuinely do two business or property owners from you get all four – You must have a lot of POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at not understand the details and some of Route 22; two business or property own- free time! P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091 it produced by people who have inten- ers from East Second Street; one business All words and correct definitions tionally tried to sabotage the project. I or property owner from Westfield Av- Published every Thursday by Watchung Communications, Inc. come from the board game Diction would like to provide interested resi- enue; one resident who does not own Deception. dents with the facts. property or operate a business in the dis- Paul Peyton Horace R. Corbin Fred K. Lecomte Answers to last week’s arcane words. ASSIGNMENT EDITOR PUBLISHER MARKETING DIRECTOR What is a SID? It is a partnership be- trict; one representative from the Scotch tween the local government and the busi- Plains Business and Professional Asso- 1. Reliction – Land left uncovered by Suzette F. Stalker David B. Corbin Michael L. Bartiromo the recession of the sea COMMUNITY ASSISTANT PUBLISHER & SPORTS MARKETING PRODUCTION ness community for the purpose of revi- ciation; one member of the township coun- talizing the district. The township council cil. These members will be initially be 2. Rectirostral – Having a straight bill Michael Pollack Karen M. Hinds Robert P. Connelly or beak EDUCATION & ARTS OFFICE MANAGER OPERATIONS & LEGALS empowers the business community to appointed by the township council on make improvements to the district. June 24. 3. Deave – To confuse or stun with Ben Corbin How is it funded? A special assessment What will the SID do for me? The SID noise SERVICES 4. Boreen – A lane leading from the SUBSCRIPTION PRICE www.goleader.com/subscribe is levied on the properties located in the is designed to increase customer base; main road One-year – $28 • Two-year – $52 • Three-year – $76 • One-year college (September to May) – $20 district. expand business opportunities; improve How much will this cost me? The first advertising and promotions; provide bet- CHURRUS year, all property owners in the district ter appeal to investors; access grants and 1. A gum resin which oozes from the will pay a flat fee of $400. fundraising; recruit new businesses; en- Indian hemp Is Education Pressured by an Does the town, the school district or the hance landscaping and streetscaping. 2. An outside staircase county take any of the money? No, the Have other SIDs been successful? More 3. Minced chicken or veal, mixed with money is reinvested in the downtown. than 60 SIDs that have been created in eggs and bread crumbs How much will this cost me after the New Jersey over the last twenty years, 4. Crude borax Unrelenting Drive for ‘Perception?’ first year? After the first year the board of including those in Westfield, Cranford CHUKKER directors will determine the fee with ap- and Summit, continue to thrive and pro- 1. Second-class; something of lesser The staff of The Westfield Leader and The Scotch scene has become rife with shady figures making backroom proval by the town council. vide benefits to property and business value Plains-Fanwood Times congratulates all graduating se- deals to pad their pockets. Elections are now decided by I’m a business owner, not a property owners. 2. One of the periods into which a polo owner. Will I still have to pay? The as- If there are still unanswered questions, game is divided niors from the Class of 2008. We know how rigorous high how much money a candidate can spend, making skeptics sessment is levied on the property owner, I encourage people to contact me at 3. A gopher school can be and applaud your achievement. of the public. but he/she may pass the fee on to their [email protected] or to attend 4. A concealed dungeon with a trap The task of graduation is impossible without the sup- It is becoming harder to discern whether accolades are tenant. Review your individual lease to the public hearing on June 24. door at the top port of wonderful teachers, staff, parents and many in the deserved or whether they were garnered via unscrupulous LANATE 1. Discolored or blackened communities – so kudos to everyone. means. These are some of the matters that members of the 2. Excessively sweaty Westfield and Scotch Plains curricula are challenging, Class of 2008 must ponder as they enter the next stage of Letters to the Editor 3. Having a notched, indented or scal- and students are well prepared for the college environ- development. loped edge as certain leaves. ment. The pressure to achieve in school, however, is For instance, according to our calculations, 456 Westfield 4. Covered with a hairy substance or demanding, and we wonder if that pressure has led to a High School students will graduate this month. In the last ‘We Can’t Do Anything About It’ wool DICHOSTASIS system that puts too much stock in GPA and rankings – honor roll, 204 students were on the honor roll. That’s 45 1. Spontaneous subdivision thus diluting the meaning of education? percent of the graduating class. Attitude Is not the American Way 2. In biology, the cessation of natural Has the quest for perceived perfection become more The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School’s Fanscotian’s I am the Rambling Drive resident re- budget contained an increase of about selection in generation important than the quest for knowledge? recent editorial (shortened for space constraints), below, ferred to in your recent article regarding $425,000 to Anticipated Surpluses and 3. State of exaustion; worn out In the sports world, performance-enhancing drugs have shows that the problem is not only Westfield-centric. It is the Scotch Plains Council’s budget ap- the utilization of $500,000 of reserves. 4. Motionless; inert proval. I believe Mayor Martin Marks Councilwoman Paulette Coronato’s com- tainted time-honored records. The New Jersey political global, and it is spreading. allowed me significantly more time to ments about the increased sewage fees make my remarks (and our subsequent the town will incur next year exacerbated See more letters on page 5 interchange) than was utilized by the other that concern. Do You Really Deserve Your ‘A’? two speakers. As I noted, New Jersey didn’t get to Consequently, I was disappointed to have the highest property taxes in the Letters to Grade inflation is the proverbial 800-pound gorilla in According to a 2003 study by the University of Califor- read that discussion was reduced to my country overnight and, I recognize that it the corner of every classroom of Scotch Plains-Fanwood nia at Los Angeles, 70 percent of students at private questioning “…the council about exces- can’t get out of this mess overnight either. the Editor sive spending…”. Spending alone was Keeping a tight grip on expenses is, in my High School (SPFHS). universities and 53 percent of students at public universi- not the crux of my remarks. My main opinion, the day-to-day responsibility of As defined by ACT, Inc., the organization that admin- ties graduated from high school with an A average. issue is the ever-increasing property taxes the town’s departmental managers. Since Resident Grateful to isters the ACT college entrance examination, grade infla- But this artificial inflation of students’ grades inevita- and the “We can’t do anything about it” I am not intimately knowledgeable of the Rescue Squad, Police tion is the increase in students’ grades without an accom- bly backfires. Incoming students arrive at college lacking attitude noted in the mayor’s letter to the details of their initial appropriations re- residents of Scotch Plains — as well as the quests, I am not qualified to challenge I cannot thank enough the Fanwood panying increase in their academic achievement. the proper knowledge and skills that their misleading high remarks made by the Chairman of the them. In my view, that is the job of the Rescue Squad and the Fanwood Police It is a known fact that grade inflation is happening on a school grades suggested they had already mastered. Union County Board of Freeholders [An- town’s manager and the council. I note Dept. for their prompt response on Satur- national level in both high school and college, and it Students themselves also contribute to the problem. gel Estrada] as reported by your newspa- that the appropriations request that was day, June 6, to the 911 call I made when shows no signs of slowing down. Many of them take bad grades personally and get visibly per in March of this year, that it is impos- submitted to the council in February was the site of a procedure my husband had At SPFHS, grade inflation is the product of its own upset rather than reevaluating their work and coming to sible not to raise taxes. reduced by slightly less than one percent. the day before started to hemorrhage. Given the increases about to be im- Nibbling at the edges of the departmental I regret that the names of the policeman environment, a suburban melting pot of high-pressure the realization that the grade, surprisingly enough, re- posed by the town and the county, my appropriation requests will not fix the and rescue workers escape me, because parents, administrators and supervisors, college-bound flects the content of their work. taxes will have increased by 106 percent problem. of my focus on my husband’s condition. students and untenured teachers. “I try to give a B, and all of a sudden people are crying, and 77 percent respectively over the last I look to the council to come up with Thank you for the service you provide It comes in many different forms, most commonly extra literally crying,” one teacher remarked. Students in the 16 years. As I stated during my remarks, more strategic plans to address this issue. to the community, and thank you for I find that position to be unacceptable and Throwing in the proverbial sponge and being there for us when we needed you. credit opportunities and declining grading standards. It Scotch Plains-Fanwood district have been spoon-fed in- want to know what the council proposes passing the buck is not leadership! Fur- It was gratifying to see so much dedi- might also contribute to the troubling statistic uncovered flated grades since they set foot in an elementary school, to do about it. thermore, it is not the American way! cation and skill at work. Bless each one of you. by Assistant Principal Ed Braun: 55 percent of all report which probably explains the 242 students who recently I also pointed out that my concern over John Cirrito card grades from the 2006-2007 school year were A’s. achieved high-honor-roll status (roughly one in seven future increases is heightened by the fact Scotch Plains Mary McKeown-Parran Maureen Basta, former SPFHS English teacher and students). that the revenues needed to balance the Fanwood current guidance counselor, summed it up well: “A’s used To finally make sense of grade inflation and curtail its Editor’s note: Fanwood Rescue Squad to be memorable, but now they just seem to be common- prevalence, the school needs to agree on what a grade Fanwood Notice of Layoff members on that call were 2nd Lt. Tom place.” In the modern era of education, a grade can be a really is. The school community needs to agree that a Editor’s Note: This letter was sent last ministrator, 75 North Martine Avenue, FitzGibbon, Bob Hoyer and Bob Kruthers. self-esteem booster, a reward for class participation and grade is still, by definition, a measure of the student’s week to all employees of the Borough of Fanwood, New Jersey 07023, (908)-322- The Fanwood Police Officer who re- Fanwood. 8236. Information concerning the State sponded was Cpl. Marc Gottlick. work effort or a message communicating improvement, mastery of content in the classroom. Dear [Borough employee], Dislocated Worker Unit can be obtained rather than a reflection of learning. In a situation like this, in which teachers are con- This letter will serve as official notice by contacting the New Jersey Depart- Thank You: Police, Fire Why is there grade inflation? It clearly has something sciously inflating grades and submitting to the will of the that the Borough of Fanwood will engage ment of Labor “Rapid Response Team” at to do with teachers. Eighty-two percent of SPFHS teach- community’s parents and students, some professional in a reduction of force in your Depart- the following address: And Rescue Squad ment commencing on or after August 1, New Jersey Department of Labor Re- We would like to thank the fire depart- ers who completed a recent poll reported that they inflate autonomy could help. 2008. However, at the present time, it is sponse Team grades. When asked if they had observed instances of Final thought for the Class of 2008: If America is ments from Fanwood, Scotch Plains, not possible to determine the exact affect Labor Building, Room 1013 Plainfield, Cranford and Union County other teachers inflating grades, one teacher remarked that lagging behind other industrialized nations in the educa- that this layoff action will have on each Trenton, New Jersey 08625 who responded so quickly to the fire at “teachers talk about it openly,” while others described tion of its children, would it not benefit today’s students to employee. Tel. (609)-292-2074 or (800)-342-3919 our home in the early morning hours of grade inflation as “rampant.” be offered some “tough love”? If everyone is treated as a The layoff and job elimination is ex- You will be receiving additional infor- Monday, May 26. We would also like to pected to be permanent. mation from the Borough’s Clerk office extend our thanks and gratitude to the Many experts reason that untenured, inexperienced genius, how is improvement measured? Regardless of The reason for this layoff stems from within the next several weeks about your teachers fan the flames of grade inflation by relying on where you stand on this issue, please accept our sincere Fanwood police and rescue squad mem- economic and budgetary reasons. benefits entitlement. bers who responded to lend their help. easy grading policies so that they do not upset any parents congratulations on a job well done and be safe while you Both the affected employees and the Very truly yours, We wish to commend the alertness of or students along the road to securing tenure. In our poll, celebrate. supervisors will be notified of these de- Eleanor McGovern Scotch Plains Police Officer Matthew Success can’t be regarded as an entitlement. “The terminations prior to the effective date. Borough Administrator/Clerk Mahoney, who was the one who observed a teacher admitted, “As a non-tenured teacher, I inflated If you have any questions, please con- grades in order to avoid conflict with a parent. I consid- harder you work, the luckier you get.” – Thomas Jefferson, cc: Allan Roth, Esq. fire and smoke issuing from the rear of the tact Eleanor McGovern, Business Ad- house. He awakened us, made sure we ered that a smart survival tactic.” et al. were out safely, and immediately con- Layoff Notices Shows Fiscal Prudence tacted the fire department, preventing greater damage to our home. We shall forever be grateful to him. Of Fanwood Mayor, Borough Council To say we are thankful is an understate- As Fanwood Borough Council Presi- social responsibility to the employees will ment of our recognition of what Officer dent and candidate for re-election to the continue to be the guiding principles for Mahoney, all the emergency service per- Borough Council, I believe the recent economic decisions made by the govern- sonnel, and our neighbors and friends did delivery of layoff notices to all borough ing body of Fanwood. for us. They will always be in our thoughts. employees demonstrates the fiscal pru- Joan Wheeler Alicia and John Paardecamp dence and social responsibility of the FW Council President Fanwood mayor and council. Fiscal prudence is the guiding principle of all economic deci- sions made by the governing body. Councilman Glover’s Budget Ideas The decision to send layoff notices to all employees was based on months of reviews by the borough department heads Mislead Scotch Plains Public and the mayor and council. The increas- The June 10 Scotch Plains Town Coun- of having a huge home now, only to be ing cost of salaries, health insurance, pen- cil meeting was truly an eye-opener to foreclosed by the bank when the economy sions, uniforms and other contracted items me. The public hearing and vote on the enters a decline. This is not the kind of is the greatest expense to the borough. budget were held, among other business. mayor we want to see in office: one who Faced with a real budget deficit due to a I am amazed to discover that Councilman cuts taxes for a few years only to ruin the reduction in revenues and a decrease in Glover will blatantly mislead the public financial standing of the town. state aid to municipalities under 10,000 in order to gain votes for his mayoral Surely, the voting public is smart residents, which could not be forecasted campaign. enough to see through this hollow prom- early in the year, a review of all expenses As someone who attended the work ise. The people of Scotch Plains need to was required. sessions of the council leading up to last look to leaders who are interested in the A significant deficit was identified night’s meeting, I can attest to the fact that public good and who see their roles as that which required the council to approve the hours were spent attempting to find solu- of public service, not self-service. possibility of layoffs and to send the no- tions to lower the taxes, within the man- Mary DePaola tices to each employee. State budget de- dates set forth by the State of New Jersey. Scotch Plains tails will not be available to the mayor and Deputy Mayor Nancy Malool, who does council until approximately July 1. With have a masters degree in municipal man- tough decisions ahead, including pos- agement, proposed the majority of the sible layoffs, the socially responsible ac- actual cuts in the budget. In the following Thought for the Week tion was to notify all employees as soon session, Councilman Glover set forth his A safety notice written on the exit door as it became evident that there will not be suggestions, mainly recycled from those in the control room of a nuclear power funds available for the continued em- made by Deputy Mayor Malool. plant: ployment of all current borough employ- Other ideas of his could not work be- “Will the last one out of the room ees. cause they were outside the directives please turn out the lights.” The Borough of Fanwood is not acting mandated by State regulations. (For ex- in isolation; the League of Municipalities ample, certain township employees must Status: Review of School District Superintendent Contracts is projecting layoffs throughout the state. be given a certain raise to keep their Today, Tuesday, June 17, The Leader/ super-superintendents for review of po- with the superintendent along with the Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr and the salaries commensurate with the cost of Deadlines Times was given 21 of the 23 county tential abuse. The commissioner urged BOE agreement with the Westfield As- borough council made the decision to living.) This is a far cry from the tale General News - Friday 4pm school superintendent contracts re- the public to review the contracts. In sociation of Administrators and Super- notify employees as soon as it became Glover told at the budget hearing of being Weekend Sports - Monday 12pm quested from the county superinten- response, this newspaper submitted an visors. evident that a reduction in personnel was the lone ranger out there trying to cut Classifieds - Tuesday 12pm dents’ office. The contracts from Eliza- Open Public Records Act (OPRA) re- We have posted all information re- necessary. This was done in the best inter- taxes, while the rest of the council was Ad Reservation - Friday 4pm beth and Plainfield, Abbott school dis- quest on June 2 to Union County Su- ceived for the public to view at ests of the borough. One thing is certain: callously raising taxes. He claimed to Ad Submittal - Monday 12pm tricts, were not provided; and we reaf- perintendent of Schools Carmen goleader.com/features. It will take us a the Borough of Fanwood is not laying off have seen financials and alluded to a tax firmed our OPRA request for these Centuolo for e-mail copies of all the few days to post the information just everyone. We will continue to explore freeze in two letters to the editor and then To Reach Us contracts. county school district administrative received. We will post the Elizabeth every avenue available to the borough failed to deliver on plan because his ideas E-Mail - [email protected] during this time of decreasing revenues were simply unfeasible. Phone - (908) 232-4407 Two weeks ago, New Jersey Educa- contracts. and Plainfield school contracts as soon and mandated reductions in state fund- His thinking is similar to that we have tion Commissioner Lucille Davy or- The Westfield School district on its as we receive these documents. We ing. seen in the real estate market. Overly For more information, see dered all school districts to submit cop- own initiative provided The Westfield solicit public analysis and comment to Fiscal prudence to the residents and optimist buyers borrow today in the hopes www.goleader.com/help ies of superintendent contracts to county Leader with a copy of their contract assist us in our review and reporting. A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, June 19, 2008 Page 5 Letters to the Editor Writer Says Tension at Scotch Plains Council Meeting Was not Reported I attended the Scotch Plains township confronted and accused Ms. Malool of meeting on June 10, which included the misleading them into thinking the discus- 2008 budget hearing. In the following sion was going to take place that night. days, I read two newspaper accounts of Unruly grumbling and chatter among that meeting. The coverage by The Scotch the audience ensued, prompting the town- Plains Times was very disappointing, fail- ship attorney Mr. Levine to intervene and ing on many levels to communicate the explain that this is the way things were truly contentious atmosphere of the meet- done, and there would be no SID discus- ing, which was every bit as turbulent as sion that night. The mayor, furious at the the thunderstorm raging outside on Tues- disruption caused by failure to allow the day night. SID discussion, abruptly adjourned the By contrast, the coverage in The Record meeting without even allowing the usual Beth Budnick for The Westfield Leader and The Times Press was not only more accurate, but opportunity for public comment, which LIKE OLD TIMES…Members of the Holy Trinity Class of 1948 caught up at captured certain nuances that enable the assuredly would have been focused on LEARNING THE LAW…Eight members of the Women’s Club of Westfield were their 60th high school reunion last Saturday. Pictured, left to right, are: Mari reader to understand the political under- the SID ordinance. given a tour of the Union County Public Safety building. Pictured, from left to Magnier, Tony Rossi and Bernadette Burke. See photos at goleader.com/photos. currents of the budget meeting proceed- Yet none of this charged atmosphere right, are: Anne Magnotti, Anne Galante, Nita McHugh, Marjorie Wieseman, ings. Here are some important aspects of was captured by The Times coverage. The Nina Foley, Delores Kilkenny, and Helen Assmann. the meeting missing from The Scotch local newspapers have an obligation to Holy Trinity Class of ’48 Plains-Fanwood Times coverage: fairly inform the public of the workings of The meeting was unusually well at- local government in an unbiased way. Watchdog Claims Need For tended by concerned citizens. There was Through the sin of omission, The Times Reunites after 60 Years a resounding round of applause three times failed to live up to that ideal this week. By BETH BUDNICK baseball player while at Holy Trinity, during the meeting. The first applause Chris Thompson Turnpike Project is Unclear Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times broke out when Councilman Glover very Scotch Plains circled the party covering his nametag eloquently and succinctly explained why AREA – According to policy and 2007. WESTFIELD – They traveled from with his hand, much to the gleeful he was voting against the large tax in- watchdog group, Tri-State Transpor- TSTC says the basis for the Turn- Japan, Florida and New Hampshire. puzzlement of his former classmates. crease encompassed in the budget, espe- Eight Women Receive tation Campaign (TSTC), New Jer- pike project was based on pre-2002 They had been cheerleaders, varsity Yet, for most of the schoolmates, cially this year, when global economic sey Turnpike Authority (NJTA) data data, when traffic growth rates were baseball players and the class presi- time had not withered their ties. To turmoil threatens us all. Police Building Tour shows that driving on the New Jersey much higher. dent. More recently they played the former classmate John “Jack” The second round of applause occurred WESTFIELD -- Eight members of Turnpike has been relatively stagnant According to TSTC, the new data roles of schoolteachers and invest- Cassidy, Mr. Pfaff said, “I knew who when Mr. Glover introduced a resolution the Home Life Department of the since 2005, bringing into question a also brings into question NJTA’s traf- ment bankers. They were members of you were right away!” to change the township’s phone service, Woman’s club of Westfield were re- $2-billion project to widen the Turn- fic growth projections through 2032 which has not been reviewed or changed the Holy Trinity School class of 1948, “We had a camaraderie,” said in the last 10 years, thus saving the town cently given a tour of the Sheriff pike between exits 6 and 9. where NJTA predicts annual traffic and this dynamic group attended their Maureen Magnier. “We can still get approximately $30,000 per year. Ralph Froehlich-Union County Po- “With driving on the Turnpike flat increases of 2.4 percent northbound 60th high school class reunion on together and talk like nothing had There was a third round of applause for lice Safety Building in Westfield. lining because of rising gas prices and 3.4 percent southbound: num- Saturday, June 14, at Giovanna’s Res- changed.” Gloria Brody, from the Scotch Plains Li- Lieutenant Ronald Esposito of the and other trends, should we be spend- bers that are much higher than actual taurant in Plainfield. “I like the people. We all just really brary, who talked about all the wonderful Union County Police Department ing billions to expand a roadway? We trends. The event brought together 12 get along,” Bernadette “Bernie” Burke programs available at the library, and the conducted the tour. say the answer is ‘no,’” said Kate The $2-billion project would add members of the class. The original said. “Simple as that.” popularity that the library is enjoying. The ladies saw the recordkeeping Slevin, executive director of the up to three lanes in each direction class had 53 students, 16 of whom are Particularly because of the school’s Finally, The Times article failed to report room, the police communications TSTC. to the Turnpike between exits 6 now deceased, according Fred small size, “We kept in touch,” said a number of the township’s business center and the surveillance area where TSTC says recent data from the and 9. people were in attendance, specifically Chemidlin, the classmate who orga- Mari Bonini. expecting public discussion of the SID hidden cameras were detailed. The NJTA shows that the number of ve- The Tri-State Transportation nized the event. The reunion brought back many (Special Improvement District) ordinance. ladies were also introduced to the hicles using all seven New Jersey Campaign said cheaper alterna- Mr. Chemlin, who owns Family memories for the former schoolmates. The council voted to introduce the ordi- health division, traffic bureau, ma- Turnpike entries in the project area tives, such as an updated variable Investment Bankers in Fanwood, is “I’ve got tears in my eyes,” said nance, but deferred any discussion of the rine unit and community services. (Exits 6, 6A, 7, 7A, 8, 8A and 9) has tolling scheme, a freight manage- the only one from the group who Eleanor DeAndrea, a Holy Trinity SID ordinance until the June 24 meeting. The ladies said they found the expe- stagnated from April 2005 to April ment corridor or more mass tran- continues to reside in Westfield, he cheerleader in her day. She sat next to One of the businessmen, visibly irri- rience to be interesting and educa- 2008. The most recent annual data sit, could offer greater congestion explained. Mr. Chemlin said he was fellow former cheerleaders Ms. Burke tated about the squelched SID discussion, tional. shows traffic on the roadway actually reduction benefits “at a fraction of determined to have the reunion, and and Ms. Magnier. Despite the 60 declined 1.1 percent between 2006 the cost.” began preparations as long as seven years’ time, the women remain close. Campaign Release, 7th Congressional District or eight months ago. And, according to Ms. DeAndrea, Although the class had remained “I’ve still got the arms!” Stender Blames Bush, Calls on relatively connected since their gradu- The class’ last reunion, in 1990, ation, this reunion was not without had taken place in Japan at classmate Opponent Lance to Oppose Big Oil surprises; some classmates had not Father Jim Jackson’s parish. Holding FANWOOD – According to a press struggle to pay record prices at the seen each other in 35 years. Richard the reunion in Japan was originally release from Asw. Linda Stender (LD- pump, big oil companies continue to “Dick” Pfaff, for example, an avid suggested as a joke, but it grew into a 22, Fanwood), last week the Bush benefit from tax breaks and record full-fledged trip, one fondly recalled Administration and Senate Republi- profits,” said Ms. Stender, Democratic Your State Legislators by the class members in attendance at cans blocked the Consumer First candidate for Congress in New the reunion last Saturday. Father Jack- Energy Act proposed by Democrats Jersey’s 7th District. ---LD-21--- son was transferred to Japan in his by a vote of 51-43. She said the bill “I call upon my Republican oppo- Sen. Thomas Kean, Jr. (R), Westfield practice as a clergy, and continued to would have ended $17 billion worth nent, Sen. Leonard Lance, to join me (908)-232-3673 reside there. At the reunion on Satur- of tax breaks for big oil and instead in opposing the Bush Administration’s Asm. Jon Bramnick (R), Westfield day, “Father Jim” led his fellow mem- used that money to invest in renew- reckless policies of tax breaks for Big (908)-232-2073 bers of the class of ’48 in prayer. able energy sources. Oil and a refusal to invest in renew- Asm. Eric Munoz (R), Summit Anthony “Tony” Rossi, the class of According to Democrats support- able energy sources, which hurts New (908)-918-0414 ’48 president, made an appearance in ing the bill, the legislation would Jersey families,” Ms. Stender added. his wheelchair, much to the delight of ---LD-22--- have added a “windfall” profits tax his former classmates. “He was a real on big oil companies, would have Sen. Nicholas Scutari (D), Linden hunk,” Ms. Burke said to chuckles. (908)-587-0404 helped end price gouging that is driv- CLASSIFIEDS Asw. Linda Stender (D), Scotch Others made up for lost time. Leo ing gas prices to record highs -- gas goleader.com/classifieds Plains Joseph Zaccarin signed a classmate’s prices rose to over $4.04 per gallon, (908)-668-1900 yearbook, next to the photo of his marking the fifth consecutive increase Asm. Jerry Green (D), Plainfield 18-year-old self, and explained, “I and fourth straight record-setting day (908)-561-5757 didn’t manage to get around to this for the price at the pump. 60 years ago.” “While New Jersey families iѮ F#FTU,FQU4FDSFUu JO/FX+FSTFZ 4QFDJBMJ[JOHJO /RS\_R 1b_V[T XFEEJOHT CJSUIEBZQBSUJFT BOOJWFSTBSJFT IPMJEBZQBSUJFT BOEGVOESBJTFST N[Q 6[ORadRR[ -!+% 9/52 2%3%26!4)/. 4/$!9 I\k`i\d\ek_Xjk_i\\g_Xj\j%N`ccpfl jlZZ\\[`eXccf]k_\d6
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Join in the festivities as Sunrise of Westfield hosts a Summer Open House Celebration. At this $)3#/6%2 WHY MILLION HOMEOWNERS exciting event you can mingle with neighbors, EVENT DETAILS TRUST THEIR HOMES TO residents and guests. You can also enjoy seasonal 34!4% &!2- fare and delight in a variety of themed entertainment. Open House Open to the public While you’re here, meet our team, tour our community and find out what we do to make our community a place seniors are proud to call home. Saturday, June 28th 11:30am - 3:30pm Light refreshments and a raffle will be available. Space is limited. RSVP to Christine Cosenza, Agent Tours will be provided by Tara Burns and our Concierge 908-317-3030 2 Elm Street Westfield, NJ 07090-2148 Sunrise Team members by June 26th. Bus: 908-233-9100 www.christinecosenza.net
Sunrise of Westfield 908-317-3030 240 Springfield Ave, Westfield, NJ 07090 3TATE &ARM