Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Ad Populos, Non Aditus, Pervenimus
Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890 (908) 232-4407 USPS 680020 Thursday, March 11, 2008 OUR 118th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 11-2008 Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J. www.goleader.com [email protected] SIXTY CENTS Mountainside, Garwood See Red Over Proposed Municipal Aid Cuts By DEBBIE HOFFMAN Viglianti said. Specially Written for The Westfield Leader The Governor’s plan is intended to Mr. Corzine is calling for a $190- prod these towns to find ways to share TRENTON — Under Governor Jon million reduction in state aid given to services with neighboring communi- Corzine’s proposed state budget, municipalities, known as the Consoli- ties. Examples include consolidating Garwood would lose $393,138 in state dated Municipal Property Tax Relief police, fire and public works depart- aid, 51 percent of what the borough Aid program. Small towns, those with ments, and sharing municipal courts received last year. Mountainside stands populations less than 10,000, would and health departments. The ultimate to see a reduction of $249,939 in mu- take the hardest hit. goal would be for the smaller towns to nicipal funding. Of the 526 municipalities in New merge with their larger neighbors. And that does not sit well with Jersey, 323 are considered small towns. William Dressel, executive director Mountainside Mayor Robert Viglianti Three of those towns fall within The of the New Jersey League of Munici- or Garwood Council President Kathleen Westfield Leader’s readership area: palities, said that small-town mayors Villaggio. Mountainside (population 6,602), were “shocked and dismayed” by Mr. “I’m still trying to figure out what the Fanwood (population 7,174) and Corzine’s announcement. “It even Governor wants us to do,” Mayor Garwood (population 4,153). rocked an old dog like me.” “I’m trying to figure out how this happened and what I can do to save our small towns,” he added. “I went to a rally of small-town rep- resentatives in Trenton last week. We all talked about how we already share services,” Ms. Villaggio said. To make up for this cut, “we would have to make Photo courtesy of Suzy Minken drastic cuts in services. There is no way ONE LESS OAK TREE ON OAK AVENUE...Damaging winds over the weekend felled an enormous oak tree in Westfield. to make up that kind of cut.” According to neighbors, one trunk from the base of the double-based tree fell onto a house on Saturday evening, interrupting “It just gets worse every day,” power. Early afternoon on Sunday, the other trunk fell in the opposite direction, making traffic impassable. See story on page 10. Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr said at her borough council’s meeting, after learning the borough would lose Mountainside Prepares to Fight $186,669. Mountainside Councilman Glenn Mortimer echoed the sentiment. “I don’t know what they are looking to accom- Any Proposed Mergers by State plish by punishing small towns,” he By EBONY MCQUEEN consolidate the Winfield Park, Centuolo, who reports to the Gover- said. “I, for one, would fight a consoli- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Garwood and Mountainside school nor, “wasn’t ready to discuss the de- dation of towns. It would punish our MOUNTAINSIDE — With the boards. The plan may involve placing tails until the state promulgates the residents.” state’s current fiscal crisis, consoli- kindergarten to grade 8 students in rules,” Mr. Bramnick said. “That’s Courtesy of Lt. Col. Tim Whalen Mountainside resident Audrey dation of many small municipalities the Berkeley Heights school system. when the discussions and meetings HEAVILY ARMED IN IRAQ...LTC Tim Whalen (right) is accompanied by a Cunningham said, “One of the reasons is a consideration. The borough’s high school teenagers will start.” heavily armed companion (nametag Patter) while walking in Iraq. The colonel why I left Essex County to move to If approved by the State Legisla- currently attend Governor Livingston “I think they should start earlier,” provided his thank you to citizens in the Westfield area for their letters during a Mountainside was the benefit of lower ture, the proposed Fiscal Year 2008- High School in the township. Mr. Bramnick said. “There are drafts phone call from Baghdad to the newspaper last Friday. taxes, as well as the small-town feel of 2009 budget would have a direct ef- “Consolidation is good for K-8 to these promulgations, and we can a unique little town, which my kids fect on small municipalities, includ- schools that aren’t efficient. get copies of them to challenge these love. ing Mountainside. Mountainside is an achieving dis- rules.” Live from Iraq, Col. Thanks “It’s nice to know your neighbors The borough’s municipal aid is al- trict,” said Board of Education Presi- If Mountainside were to merge with and to be able to go to school, partici- ready down $249,000 from last year, dent John Perrin. “Mountainside is Berkeley Heights, the board of edu- pate in sports and share community but the Governor will offer all 323 one of the only school [systems] in cation in Mountainside would be Community for Its Support memories with your fellow towns in the state with populations of Union County that meets the [federal eliminated. Members from the By HORACE CORBIN southern belt, “about the size of West Mountainsiders,” she added. “The li- fewer than 10,000 residents, which government’s] ‘No Child Left Be- Mountainside Board of Education Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Virginia,” had experienced no attacks. brarian and local police officers know includes Mountainside, $32 million hind standards,’” he added. would be sent to expand the Berkeley IRAQ – The “great people at home “Believe it or not…this is the first my kids. I know the parents of all my to help them share services or con- The county superintendent, Carmen CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 keep us going,” Lieutenant Colonel time that’s happened in the 12 months kids’ friends, which gives me some solidate. Timothy Whalen, out of Fort Stewart in we’ve been here,” he said, noting an 80- level of security in this big, impersonal Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (LD- Georgia, told The Westfield Leader on percent drop in attacks in the area and a world.” 21, Westfield) attended Tuesday WF Board Asks Homeowner Friday afternoon. “We could not do 65-percent reduction throughout the Although a larger town (population night’s borough work session to in- what we do without the support we get country. 29,944), Westfield stands to see a drop form the governing body about back from home.” “It’s truly amazing to see the change in aid of $411,844 or 9 percent. changes the proposed state budget To Consider Alternatives Interviewed from Baghdad, Col. that has taken place,” he said. “All of the Corzine cuts will end up could have on the borough’s board of By RAYNOR DENITZIO replacing it would not only allow him Whalen spoke to the newspaper for He said the “window of opportunity” getting pushed down on the town and education. Specially Written for The Westfield Leader to utilize his backyard, but it would nearly an hour, discussing a range of is the best and most open it has been for transferring [the problem to munici- According to Mr. Bramnick, the WESTFIELD — The Westfield also be more aesthetically pleasing to topics surrounding the war in Iraq. He the solvency of economic and agricul- palities],” Westfield Mayor Andy County Superintendent of Schools Board of Adjustment asked home- the neighborhood. He argued that the talked about the downward trend in tural institutions in the region. How- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 contends there is a plan to merge and owner David Barbosa to consider al- house was in a state of disrepair when violence and the impact of the surge, as ever, in order for that to happen, “secu- ternatives to replacing a deck struc- he purchased it, and he has taken well as the focus on “capacity build- rity had to be in place before…We had ture in his backyard during its meet- steps to improve it. ing” while securing the population. to get the Iraqi army, the Iraqi police Garwood Mayor: ‘No ing Monday night. “I made that house 10-times better The interview can be heard in its and the institutions viable enough so The board revisited the application than it was before,” Mr. Barbosa said. entirety at goleader.com. they can sustain this thing over the long after the State Superior Court As- Ms. Foulke said she did not feel Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the colonel haul.” Immediate Plans to Merge’ signment Judge for Union County, that Mr. Barbosa had proven hard- said he spent a lot of time in Westfield In terms of “the surge,” the increas- By RAYNOR DENITZIO Tuesday’s council meeting assumed Walter Barisonek, remanded the case ship and that the board should reject with his aunt and uncle, Alice and Bill ing of troop levels to 165,000, the colo- Specially Written for The Westfield Leader the state aid would be restored, offi- to them following a suit brought his application because of this, not Kelly, in the early 1970s. nel said it has led to successes. GARWOOD — Facing a signifi- cials said. On this basis, a house in the against the board and Mr. Barbosa by focus on aesthetics. He then left for West Point and, even- He said because of the increased cant loss of revenue, as Governor Jon borough assessed at $100,000 faces neighbor Cynthia Foulke. The judge “To my mind, they (the board of tually, active duty. His wife, a high numbers, the military has been able to Corzine’s state budget eliminates aid an additional $320 in municipal taxes. ordered the board to hear Mr. adjustment) have a continuing modus school teacher, and his four elementary go into “AQI (Al-Qaeda in Iraq) sanc- to small towns in order to drive con- Since this figure assumes receiving Barbosa’s application to construct a operandi to approve things based upon school-aged children live in Texas. tuaries” and clear them out. The surge solidation, Mayor Dennis McCarthy $393,000 in additional state aid to porch and revisit the variance it appearance rather than hardship,” Ms. Col. Whalen lauded the “unbeliev- has allowed the military to go on the responded at Tuesday night’s borough match last year’s total of $767,000, granted to him earlier regarding pav- Foulke said. able outpouring of generosity” from “offensive” in these regions. The differ- council meeting, saying, “At this point the tax increase would grow. Cur- ing on sections of his property. According to Vincent Loughlin, area towns and thanked all local houses ence now, however, is that the military in time, the council has entertained no rently, the borough is set to receive During the meeting, Mr. Barbosa board attorney, hardship is just one of of worship. Col. Whalen said the dona- stays in these regions. discussion about merging.” $374,033 in aid. stated that he has a problem at his the factors which the board considers tions have a “tremendous impact” on “We’re living in 57 outposts [in the Without the traditional state aid, “This potential loss of aid could house with water draining into the when granting a “d” variance, the type the troops, specifically mentioning the southern belt],” he said. “We don’t ‘com- the council’s finance committee an- represent an additional $213 per basement. He argued that the pave- being considered in this case. work of St. Helen’s Roman Catholic mute to work.’ We know we’re not nounced that the municipal portion household,” said Kathleen Villaggio, ment was necessary to alleviate the After hearing the testimony from Church, which he remembered was going to be there forever, so we bring in of the property tax would increase as council president and chairman of problem. both Mr. Barbosa and Ms. Foulke, the “only being built” in 1972 when he Iraqi security forces and partner with much as $533 per household. The the finance committee. “I need to fix this condition,” Mr. board was leaning towards denying spent time in Westfield. them…” municipal portion is about 20 percent In her report to the board, Ms. Barbosa said. “It is deteriorating my Mr. Barbosa’s request for the porch Col. Whalen discussed topics rang- “We’ve established over 1,600 check- of the total property tax bill. Other Villaggio called upon the state to find foundation which is already old to structure. If the board had ruled in ing from the exit strategy, the differ- points, manned by Iraqis, the Sons of property tax portions are rising also – an alternative to the aid cuts that will begin with.” such a way, it would have prevented ence in Iraqi and American culture and Iraq, who are tired of violence,” the the school tax is about 60 percent, take some of the burden off the mu- Mr. Barbosa said removing the any construction at the site in the the danger of pulling troops out too colonel said. He said the troops have and the county tax is about 20 per- nicipalities. present structures in the rear of the future. Mr. Barbosa agreed to explore soon. had “tremendous success” in stopping cent, of the total. “To eliminate state aid in just three house was also necessary to help alternatives and revisit the matter at a The colonel said attacks in the south- “accelerants,” including improvised The borough budget introduced at CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 lessen the water problem and that CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 ern belt of Iraq, comprising eight prov- explosive devices (IEDs), before they inces, had decreased from 27 attacks a reach their destination. day in 2007 to less than five, recently. “We inspect everything coming in Westfield Council Addresses He said during the last few days, the CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 ‘Failure of Gov.’s 2009 Budget’ By MICHAEL J. POLLACK pal aid, a 9-percent decrease. Specially Written for The Westfield Leader The proposal now goes to the Legis- WESTFIELD – The Westfield Town lature, which must pass a balanced Council unanimously agreed to a reso- budget by the start of the state’s next lution Tuesday that addresses “the fail- FY, which begins July 1. ure of the Governor’s proposed state According to the language in the budget for the 2008-2009 Fiscal Year resolution, the aid decrease, along with (FY) to treat property tax relief as our the new 4-percent levy cap, will “actu- priority.” ally increase municipal taxes in the First Ward Councilman and Finance Town of Westfield for calendar year Policy Committee Chairman Sal 2008.” Caruana said the resolution is being When addressing the increase, Mr. introduced statewide by the League of Caruana said, “the impact is a very Municipalities and is intended to “help significant hit for us. No doubt, it will municipalities lobby for more state aid.” impact our tax rate.” Horace Corbin for The Westfield Leader In his FY 2008-2009 budget, pre- The ordinance, according to the THREE AMIGOS...Community supporters and friends enjoy each other’s com- sented to a joint session of the State councilman, attempts to educate leg- pany last Thursday night at the Westfield GOP cocktail party in the Ward Legislature in late February, Governor islators on “the impact this (loss in Mansion. Pictured, left to right, are Jerry Infantino, Leo White and Gary Fox. Jon Corzine made “many unpleasant aid) is having on the property owners choices” and called for the slashing of in the name of property tax relief” PAGE INDEX $189 million in municipal property tax and asks legislators to “seriously re- Regional ...... 2-3, 18 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-17 Courtesy of Lt. Col. Tim Whalen BEAUTY IN IRAQ...Baghdad is a metropolitan area of eight million people, with relief. In 2008, Westfield will experi- consider restoring some of these cuts.” Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 9, 19-20 Classifieds .... 17 many mosques, canals and palaces. ence a $411,844 reduction in munici- CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Community ... 6-8, 16 Sports ...... 11-15 A&E ...... 20-22 Page 10 Thursday, March 11, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A Watchung Communications, Inc. Publication Cranford Swim Club Cell Tower Hearing Moves On By STEVEN REILLY the tower and the effectiveness of the letters Specially Written for The Westfield Leader sent out to property owners by Ms. Dinardo. CRANFORD — The battle over the According to testimony, Ms. Dinardo’s placement of a cell tower in a residential company sent letters of interest to the prop- neighborhood took a step forward at erty owners in 2003 and began discussions Monday’s Cranford zoning board meeting. with the college, the cemetery and the swim Lawyers for both sides presented argu- club. ments on the selection process of the The college was the first choice for the Cranford Swim Club as the site for Verizon tower, but college officials declined the Inc.’s cell tower. offer on three occasions, Ms. Dinardo said. Greg Meese, an attorney from the The cemetery also considered Verizon’s Woodcliff Lake law firm Price, Meese, offer but declined, she said. Shulman and D’Armino, represents Verizon Sunrise Assisted Living and Dreyer’s Raynor Denitzio for The Westfield Leader Inc., which seeks to install a 130-foot-tall Farm never responded to Verizon’s letter, MAKING HIS POINT...David Barbosa of East Dudley Avenue delivers testi- cellular tower and equipment shed on the she said. Ms. Dinardo stated that Verizon mony during the Westfield Board of Adjustment’s March 10 meeting. The board grounds of the Cranford Swim Club. did not pursue placing the tower in asked Mr. Barbosa to consider alternatives to his request to build a new porch Mr. Meese presented Claire Dinardo as Nomahegan Park based on the restrictions Greg Ryan for The Westfield Leader structure on his house. an expert witness for Verizon to testify on imposed by the state’s Green Acres open BANG UP JOB...A car and van collide last Thursday on Lawrence Avenue and the need to place the tower on the swim club space program. Sinclair Street in Westfield. No injuries were reported. property. Ms. Dinardo is the president of “We send a certified letter to the property Arionda real estate consultants out of owner or the highest ranking official. It is up Live from Iraq Haddonfield. She was hired by Verizon as to them to respond to the letters,” Ms. a “site acquisition expert.” Dinardo said. “We are not going to harass POLICE BLOTTER people and knock on doors.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 According to testimony from Ms. Dinardo, the search for a property to install Mr. Albert focused his argument on the [to Baghdad] from the south,” the colo- it’s that important to them,” Col. Whalen the cell tower began in 2003 when “radio letters that were sent out by Dinardo’s com- nel said. “There are IED factories, and said. “It’s a tremendous sacrifice. Some pany. Ms. Dinardo testified that five letters Westfield Fanwood frequency engineers” identified a “gap” in Saturday, March 1, Mario Hernandez, Wednesday, March 5, Yvonne Taylor, we have to get the bomb makers. We have been here two, three or four times. service for wireless customers in the area. were sent to the college, three to Union have a lot of personal equipment, a lot It’s truly inspirational to work side-by- County regarding Nomahegan Park, two to 18, of Elizabeth was arrested on a Roselle 40, of Plainfield was arrested on an out- Ms. Dinardo testified that Verizon tar- Park motor vehicle warrant during a mo- standing Fanwood warrant after a motor of weaponry. We have what we need.” side with these kids. They can’t even geted an area in Cranford that included the the cemetery and one to the senior home. Mr. Albert argued that Verizon did not tor vehicle stop at North Avenue and Elm vehicle stop on Terrill Road. In a country where “nothing is black drink legally in the United States but Union County College Cranford campus, Street. He was released after posting $89 Wednesday, March 5, Daniel S. and white,” Col. Whalen spoke about are over here, ready to give their life for Nomahegan Park, Dreyer’s Farm, all in make a satisfactory attempt to find an alter- native location for the tower that would be bail. Lundell, 29, of Garwood was arrested and the need to bring people, of all Islamic their country. It’s humbling, humbling Cranford, and Fairview Cemetery and the Saturday, March 1, Victorino charged with driving under the influence Sunrise Assisted Living facility in Westfield, less intrusive as the swim club property. denominations, together. The colonel to be in their presence.” “The county is here to object to the site Castaneda, 18, of Howell was arrested after he veered off the road on the 500 as well as the swim club. and charged with driving while intoxi- block of North Avenue, striking two said on a local level, each region’s Col. Whalen said he and those in the According to Mr. Dinardo, the “search for the tower based on the negative impact respective sheik has the most influence. southern region started getting cards on local residents as well as the proximity to cated (DWI) at South Avenue and Sussex parked motor vehicles and a building. area” identified by the radio engineers con- Street. He was turned over to a respon- According to police, he was processed In any given area, as many as 90 tribes and letters last year from St. Helen’s sists mostly of one-family homes that do not historic lands,” Mr. Albert said. may coexist. congregants. He said it is “amazing” Mr. Albert questioned Ms. Dinardo on sible individual. and released to a responsible individual. meet the requirements of the zoning laws to Saturday, March 1, Edward Foote, 65, Thursday, March 6, Dawnie Campbell, “We discuss what they need to thrive that “strangers from halfway around host cell towers. The properties targeted by the process to find a site for the tower and the use of the letters. of Scotch Plains was arrested at the 57, of Newark was arrested on an out- in their area and [hope to convince them the world would take time to write.” Verizon “made the spirit of the law.” Plainfield Police Department on a Scotch standing Whippany warrant after a motor to] choose other means other than vio- The colonel said he tries to write “I started with Union County College. “Did you ever go to a site to discuss a proposal?” Mr. Albert asked. Plains motor vehicle warrant with bail of vehicle stop on Terrill Road. A passenger lence,” the colonel said. back, when he can, to the many young- That was the first choice for the site,” Ms. $427 and a Westfield traffic warrant. He in the vehicle, Octavia Campbell, 22, also Dinardo said. “We have to be careful on how many He said the American forces are help- sters who take part in letter-writing letters we send. We do not want to border on was released on his own recognizance on of Newark, was arrested on outstanding According to testimony, letters were the Scotch Plains warrant with a March warrants out of Elizabeth and Roseland. ing to create a “market economy” in campaigns from CCD classes, boy and sent to the president’s office of Union becoming telemarketers,” Ms. Dinardo said. Iraq and work to shore up hospitals (10 girl scouts “The property owners have no legal respon- 12 court date and held in lieu of $300 bail Both were processed and released, police County College seeking to place the tower on the Westfield warrant. said. now exist in the southern belt) and “I carry cards and letters [to the out- on the campus. Officials from Verizon sibility to talk to us. Once they say ‘no,’ we schools. posts]; you give them to these kids out leave it at that.” Monday, March 3, Leonard A. Luizza, Saturday, March 8, Aliyah B. Reese, met with representatives from the col- 3rd of Avenel was arrested on a Rahway 23, of Roselle was arrested following a “Quite frankly, it was impossible there that are working 24/7…the im- lege, however, Ms. Dinardo said that the According to Mr. Albert, Verizon did not seek all the options to find an alterna- traffic warrant during a motor vehicle motor vehicle stop on an outstanding [before]. Al-Qaeda would terrorize [the pact that some 10-year-old girl from college “was not interested.” stop at East Grove Street and Summit warrant out of East Orange. people] and destroy infrastructure,” he Westfield, New Jersey, can have on a According to Ms. Dinardo, Verizon got tive site before settling on the swim club. “What would happen if the county said Avenue. The warrant, in the amount of Saturday, March 8, Jeffrey R. said. soldier in Wassit Province, near the the same response from Fairview Cem- $500, was satisfied with bail and he was Nahaczewski, 27, of Garwood was ar- etery, Sunrise Senior Home and Dreyer’s it was interested?” Mr. Albert asked. In terms of the enemy, Col. Whalen Iranian border, is pretty amazing, and “What would happen if the county said released. rested and charged with shoplifting from Farm. The swim club was the only site that Monday, March 3, Mark Bradley, 39, a North Avenue store. According to po- cautioned that it “is still out there. Let’s it’s really important,” the colonel said. agreed to the placement of the tower, she ‘come with us to apply for a diversion not lose sight of that.” Corresponding with the newspaper from the DEP (Department of Environ- of Dunellen was arrested on a Long Hill lice, store employees alerted authorities said. Township traffic warrant during a motor and the suspect was apprehended outside The colonel spoke about “Operation in e-mail fashion on Saturday night, Norman Albert, the deputy Union County mental Protection)?’ We don’t know be- Thank You,” an order from Major Gen- Baghdad time, the colonel wished to cause Verizon never applied.” vehicle stop on Pine Street in Garwood. the store. Nahaczewski was processed counsel, spoke in opposition to Verizon’s He was released after posting $333 bail. and released with a summons. eral Rick Lynch” to “tell the story” of personally thank the following people: application to install the cell tower on the Another meeting on the application to place a cell tower on the Cranford Swim Monday, March 3, Jaquelin Snyder, Saturday, March 8, severe winds caused the war to three different populations – From Westfield: Mary O’Donnell, swim club property. 18, of Westfield was arrested and charged substantial damage to residences on La the American public, the Iraqi public John Rochford, the Thornburn family, Mr. Albert called into question the pro- Club property is scheduled for Monday, May 5. with DWI during a motor vehicle stop on Grande Avenue, Rainier Road and North and the insurgency. He said the opera- Deidre Gelinne, Angela Donnolo, Rita cess Verizon used to seek a suitable site for North Avenue, East, and Euclid Avenue. Avenue. According to police, several trees tion is important in order to highlight Riccardi, Richard and Lucille Ragoza, She was released to a responsible indi- either fell or were uprooted, causing dam- the “positive gains” of the American the Polini family (Alice and Emma), vidual. age to homes and other property. military. Barbara Ugenti and family, Don and Wednesday, March 5, Ryan J. Monday, March 10, Leon Bownes, 45, “It truly does have an effect [with the Chris Ross (as well as children, Tho- Westfield Town Council Grantuskas, 20, of Ringoes and Lee G. of Union Springs, Ala. was arrested on an Iraqi audience],” the colonel said. mas and Ross), Janet Getz, Christina Shadwick, 22, and Mary E. Bash, 20, both outstanding body warrant out of Union CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 of Westfield, were arrested following a Springs. According to police, he was pro- He said the operation also reaches O’Connor and Rita Ricardi (second- Speaking to reporters after the meet- In June 2008, the New Jersey National motor vehicle stop on South Avenue near cessed and turned over to the Union out to “our loved ones in the States, grade CCD class, St. Helen’s) Helen ing, Mr. Caruana said that the municipal Guard redeploys to Iraq and Afghanistan. A Center Street in Garwood. County Sheriff’s Department. saying ‘thank you’ for their support; we Fisher and the McSwingle family, as budget’s arrival is still a few weeks away. total of 2,700 New Jersey citizens will be All were charged with possession of a Monday, March 10, Pedro Pena, 36, of simply cannot do what we do without well as Kelly, Bill and Alice. “We’re looking at it a second time,” he sent to support the ongoing efforts abroad. controlled dangerous substance/heroin, Plainfield was arrested for allegedly pre- the support from the communities from From Scotch Plains: the Sosinski said. “We have a specific cost savings in The Salvation Army is asking residents to possession of less than 50 grams of sus- senting authorities with several false gov- across the United States.” family, Don McVey, Patricia Wolpert, mind, and we’re trying to figure out how help supply contents for toiletry kits that pected marijuana and possession of drug ernment documents after a field investi- He said troops both male and female, Russ and Paulette Cicero, as well as E. to get there.” will be sent to troops overseas. The Westfield paraphernalia. They were released on their gation. According to police, Pena was as well as from “all different walks of Hernandez. Pension payouts for part-time employ- Memorial Library will serve as the drop-off own recognizance with summonses pend- transported to the Union County Sheriff’s life,” take part in the war effort. In Col. Whalen also lauded the work of ees, along with “every single line item,” site. For a list of intended items, see page 4. ing a March 12 Superior Court date. Department, where he was being held in Mr. Caruana said, “will be discussed.” Mayor Skibitsky invited citizens to join Wednesday, March 5, Kenneth lieu of $20,000 bail. addition, soldiers under 18 fight for the institutions like the Red Cross Third Ward Councilman and finance Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (LD-21, Middleton, 29, of Elizabeth was arrested Mountainside United States. (redcross.org) and US AID (usaid.gov). committee member David Haas said the Westfield) at his house, 279 Watchung and charged with DWI following a motor Tuesday, March 4, a resident of Little “It’s pretty amazing that these kids He encouraged those who wanted to town continues to wait on a ruling from Fork, this Saturday, March 15, for “walk vehicle stop on South Avenue in Garwood. Court reported that someone entered her stand up and come over here because support the troops to link up with orga- the state Department of Community Af- and talk politics.” Mr. Bramnick and the He was released on his own recognizance garage sometime overnight and removed nizations such as these. fairs (DCA), stipulating that future part- group would walk to Brightwood Park and to a responsible individual. a Global Positioning System from her Commenting about the impact of the time employees would earn “defined con- back, a two-mile jaunt, discussing topics Scotch Plains unlocked motor vehicle. According to Presidential debate on troops in Iraq, tribution” [401(k) plans] instead of “de- ranging from the state budget to family- Monday, March 3, a resident of Lake police, the garage door was inadvertently Garwood the colonel said debate is “what’s great fined benefit.” leave legislation. If interested, call Scott at Avenue reported that someone smashed left open. (908) 232-2073. For more, see page 4. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 about democracy…It’s wonderful that However, Mr. Haas said the DCA’s po- his mailbox, which was valued at $100. Thursday, March 6, an employee work- tential ruling was “ambiguous” about cur- Finally, the high school varsity gym will Wednesday, March 5, Luis Medina, ing on Upland Road reported that some- months, without any notice, and to say we debate. It’s something the Iraqi’s rent, continuing part-time employees. De- play host to the first annual Roosevelt and 37, of Union City was arrested on an one entered his van through an open win- that we must share services or consolidate never had.” spite the lack of a “firm decision,” the issue Edison Charity Volleyball Classic on April outstanding warrant after a motor vehicle dow and removed his boss’s cell phone, is not realistic, and a solution must be He remains confident that “the right of part-time employee compensation “may 23. The event, which will take place at 7 stop. valued at $200. found,” Ms. Villaggio said. people, not just the military, are in be made for us,” according to Mr. Haas. p.m. that night, will raise money for Wednesday, March 5, a resident of Saturday, March 8, strong winds caused She said that, although the borough charge.” Mr. Caruana said the finance committee Westfield Jaycees scholarships. Tickets Cicilia Place reported that her neighbor severe damage, as well as power outages, currently shares many services, the coun- had yet to discuss the effect of communities bought in the pre-sale cost $5 ($7 at the let his dogs run without leashes. Accord- to residences located on Rolling Rock cil would explore further ways to share Despite the amount of time candi- dates spend speaking about the war, the such as Garwood possibly merging with door) and can be purchased at ing to police, the dogs came on her prop- Road, Ledgewood Road, Forest Hill Way, services with other municipalities and the Westfield and said he did not have “any westfieldjaycees.com. erty and barked and caused damage. Old Tote Road and the municipal build- county. gains of the surge and possible exit strategies, Col. Whalen said the troops indication that Garwood is seeking a Thursday, March 6, a resident of Raritan ing. Ms. Villaggio stated that the borough merger.” March 25 – Last Day Road reported that someone had removed Saturday, March 8, John Darabos, 23, would await the final state budget and do not feel like a “political football.” Separately, Mr. Caruana said a Rahway her wedding ring, valued at $5,000, from of Edison was arrested and charged with apply for extraordinary aid before finaliz- However, the colonel wished to com- Valley Sewerage Authority (RVSA) credit, To Register for Election her room. driving while intoxicated (DWI) after a ing its budget. ment on exit strategies predicated on received partly due to an unexpected fund WESTFIELD – The Westfield Board Friday, March 7, Thomas Jovan, 28, of motor vehicle stop for reckless and care- “We do not expect to adopt the budget immediate withdrawal. surplus at the RVSA facility in Rahway, is of Education reminded residents that East Orange was arrested on an outstand- less driving. He was transported to police until sometime in July, when the final He warned that pulling troops out too “saving us from an increase that would be Tuesday, March 25, is the last day to ing warrant after a motor vehicle stop. headquarters, where he was processed state budget is adopted, and we are noti- more gargantuan than the extremely large Saturday, March 8, David Doby, 28, of and released to a responsible individual, fied of our extraordinary-aid application,” soon would be a “huge step register to vote in the school election on backwards…it would be a disaster.” one we’re facing now.” April 15. Polls will be open in Westfield South Plainfield was arrested on an out- police said. Ms. Villaggio said. Mr. Haas called the RVSA relief “tem- standing warrant after a motor vehicle Sunday, March 9, Osei E. Sarabo, 32, The finance committee recommended He said he did not feel that instant on April 15 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and complete withdrawal, as a course porary” and said that the rate would ascend stop. of Irvington was arrested for driving with development on North and South Av- next year. To register to vote, an individual Sunday, March 9, Larry Hill, 29, of a suspended license after his motor ve- enues as a long-term way to increase the of action, would be “viable” and envi- “And we’ll have another increase on top must be a native-born or naturalized Newark was arrested on an outstanding hicle became disabled in a lane of traffic borough’s revenue. Since there are cur- sioned a U.S. presence in Iraq, in some of that,” Mr. Haas said. “In some sense, it’s United States citizen who is 18 years of warrant after a motor vehicle stop. on Route 22, West. rently height restrictions along the roads, form, for the foreseeable future. In July helping us this year and holding a hammer age by election day, a resident of the the committee recommended the purchase 2008, however, he expected to see 20 over us next year.” state and county at least 30 days before of a new fire department ladder truck to brigade combat teams reduced to 15. At the county level, Westfield is bracing accommodate taller structures. an election and not denied right to vote WF Reports Downed Ultimately, he said, “this is an Iraqi for a $436-million county budget that would due to either court adjudication of idi- “This is something that we need for the cause the county portion of an average future,” Councilman Anthony Sytko said. problem, and the solution must be with ocy or insanity, not serving a sentence, security by the Iraqi army and the Iraqi Westfield tax bill to increase close to $170. “This is a long-term purchase.” When asked, Mr. Caruana said members or on parole or probation for an indict- Lines, Trees From Storm Other recommendations include the pur- police.” of the finance committee “are planning to able offense. chases of a new digital fingerprint scanner Describing the country of Iraq, he Registration forms are available By MICHAEL J. POLLACK longest duration of lost power. By attend all the county budget hearings.” Specially Written for The Westfield Leader Monday afternoon at 2 p.m., the power and replacement Dictaphone for the police said, “It is not so much about oil as it is Third Ward Councilman Mark Ciarrocca online at westfieldnjk12.org/budget or department, and an exhaust system and about water.” said a notice would go home to all parents of from the Municipal Clerk in Westfield WESTFIELD – Between last Sat- was restored. upgraded fire and smoke detection system He said the country boasts an “in- Jefferson and Washington Elementary stu- at 550 East Broad Street, the County urday and Sunday, the Westfield fire “We were fortunate that no resi- for the fire department. These items would tricate” canal system, and the mili- dents concerning the walking school bus and police departments responded to dents were injured,” Chief Kelly said. be purchased through the borough’s capi- Board of Elections at 271 North Broad tary is working to get them jobs by program, in which a group of children walks Street in Elizabeth, motor vehicle agen- 26 and 33 storm-related calls, respec- tal surplus. The fire department will also to school with one or more adults. tively. Heavy rains and wind led to use its own funds to lease a new SUV. establishing fish hatcheries in the re- cies and the League of Women Voters. gion. Roughly 9,000 are underway. While a few routes could be established The form can be mailed or brought in felled power lines and trees. No inju- Prior to the meeting, resident Ann in the spring, the program should be “in full ries were reported. Guerriero was honored for her 27 years of Repeating the old Chinese proverb swing” by the fall, Mr. Ciarrocca said. person to the municipal clerk or county WF Bd. of volunteer service with the board of health. “Give a man a fish; you have fed him commissioner of registration. Applica- Fire Chief Dan Kelly told The At the beginning of the meeting, Mayor Westfield Leader that 16 of the 26 The board also recognized Garwood Po- for today. Teach a man to fish, and Andy Skibitsky made three public service tions for absentee ballots are also avail- lice Officers Todd Herz and Gennaro you have fed him for a lifetime,” he announcements. able on westfieldnjk12.org/budget. responses related to downed power Adjustment Mirabella and Sergeant Thomas Mericle lines, which had to be monitored. said American troops are “teaching CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 for their actions in saving the life of Iraqis how to fish,” both literally and Both sides of town experienced resident Ernest Dias on December 8, 2007. figuratively. isolated power outages, the worst last- later meeting. He noted that the Iraqi people are Mountainside Fights Merger ing 20 hours. The board also revisited an appli- Oak Avenue was hit the hardest. cation from Robert and Lisa Wendel “warm” and “deeply religious.” For CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Aid Cuts Iraqis, recreation exists in the form of During the storm, a large “Y-shaped” to retain a six-foot high fence at their CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 sports. “There’s soccer everywhere Heights Board of Education. “There problems, but as soon as he realizes oak tree split; part of the tree fell through property on Lenox Avenue. The mat- Skibitsky. [in Baghdad],” the colonel added. are no details because this is just a this consolidation is not going to work, a house, and the other half crashed into ter was voted on as a “d” variance in The State Legislature is expected to He said, “It’s an amazing culture, concept,” Mr. Bramnick said. “It’s he’s going to have a bigger problem,” the street, according to Westfield Police January and failed to receive the five vote on the budget sometime in late June. not as materialistic [as America’s]. ‘efficiency,’ as the state puts it.” Mr. Bramnick said. Sergeant Scott Rodger. votes necessary to pass such a mea- “We will try to restore the $190 million,” It’s beautiful in its own way.” Mountainside Board of Education Mr. Perrin said the BOE’s budget Chief Kelly said no one was injured; sure. Mr. and Mrs. Wendel’s attorney, Mr. Dressel added. Vice President Mary Beth had already been sent to the county the building department declared the William Butler, questioned whether Mr. Corzine is expected to sign the state He said people survive under “very austere living conditions. They lead Schaumberg said, “You’re going to superintendent’s office, where it was dwelling “unsafe,” and the family is the application was a “d” variance. budget on July 1. have the same number of people with rejected because it was over the state’s staying locally with a relative. A per- The board determined that the origi- In addition to state municipal aid num- agrarian lives.” bers, local towns have been informed that Most importantly, he said, like different titles; it’s all about the spending cap. No reason was given to sonal vehicle was also “crushed” by nal variance was not noticed properly the proposed $436.1-million Union County Americans, Iraqis are hopeful people. money.” the board of education, but he said, the falling tree, the chief mentioned. and determined that Mr. and Mrs. executive budget will raise taxes in all but of “They want to get back to work. Mayor Robert Viglianti said he feels after being sent to the New Jersey In a separate incident on Oak Av- Wendel must go before the town coun- one of the county’s 21 municipalities. Lo- They hope to get their kids to school. Berkeley Heights is in a “mess” right Department of Education (NJDOE), it enue, a falling tree damaged a two- cil to get approval to retain the fence, cally, county taxes are set to increase They want healthcare, like we do. now. “It scares me that we are going was still rejected. The board of educa- car garage. which is in a town right-of-way. $1,767,931 in Westfield, $531,938 in Scotch They want their industries back. They to put everything in a town that is in tion is currently waiting for the Chief Kelly said the fire depart- The board also denied the applica- Plains, $151,704 in Fanwood, $249,720 in political turmoil,” he said. NJDOE’s reason for rejecting the ment worked with local police and tion of Noelle Koetje of Clarence Mountainside, and $189,494 in Garwood. want to worship safely and peace- fully. They beg for stability, normalcy. According to Mr. Bramnick, he be- spending plan. public-works personnel to secure ar- Street to retain a patio in her side yard “At least Corzine is talking about the lieves the county superintendent was Mayor Viglianti said he would send eas that had suffered downed wires and approved a request from James problem. The county is spending $1.2 mil- “They want to go back to living lion per day. This shows they are out of without fear.” charged with improving efficiency, a letter to the Governor in regards to the “for the safety of all pedestrians.” Ward of Prospect Street to allow tem- touch with the residents of Westfield,” For more information, please see which led to the focus on Mountainside, proposed state budget. “Trenton, today, He said the storm caused the clos- porary parking of prohibited vehicles Mayor Skibitsy said. goleader.com/video. Winfield Park and Garwood being is trying to penalize the small brothers ing of some streets, including Oak at his property, The Savannah age- Michael Pollack and Paul Peyton con- The Leader staff contributed to the merged. for their mistakes,” he said. and Westfield Avenues. restricted development, which is cur- tributed to this story. interview and report. “He’s (Corzine) got a number of Wayne Baker contributed to this story. Oak Avenue also experienced the rently under construction. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
USPS 485200 Thursday, March 13, 2008 Published Every Thursday Since 1959 (908) 232-4407 SIXTY CENTS OUR 49TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 11-2008 Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J. www.timesnj.com [email protected] Fanwood and Other Towns See Red Over Proposed Municipal Aid Cuts By DEBBIE HOFFMAN Mr. Corzine is calling for a $190- prod these towns to find ways to share Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times million reduction in state aid given to services with neighboring communi- TRENTON — Under Governor Jon municipalities, known as the Con- ties. Examples include consolidating Corzine’s proposed state budget, solidated Municipal Property Tax police, fire and public works depart- Garwood would lose $393,138 in state Relief Aid program. Small towns, ments, and sharing municipal courts aid, 51 percent of what the borough those with populations less than and health departments. The ultimate received last year. Mountainside 10,000, would take the hardest hit. goal would be for the smaller towns stands to see a reduction of $249,939 Of the 526 municipalities in New to merge with their larger neighbors. in municipal funding. Jersey, 323 are considered small William Dressel, executive direc- And that does not sit well with towns. Three of those towns fall within tor of the New Jersey League of Mu- Mountainside Mayor Robert Viglianti The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times’ nicipalities, said that small-town or Garwood Council President readership area: Mountainside (popu- mayors were “shocked and dismayed” Kathleen Villaggio. lation 6,602), Fanwood (population by Mr. Corzine’s announcement. “It “I’m still trying to figure out what 7,174) and Garwood (population even rocked an old dog like me.” the Governor wants us to do,” Mayor 4,153). “I’m trying to figure out how this Viglianti said. The Governor’s plan is intended to happened and what I can do to save our small towns,” he added. “I went to a rally of small-town representatives in Trenton last week. We all talked about how we already share services,” Ms. Villaggio said. To make up for this reduction, “we would have to make drastic cuts in services. There is no way to make up Fred T. Rossi for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times that kind of cut.” ON A ROLL...Fanwood Councilwoman Donna Dolce (center) looks for a lucky roll of the bones on March 7 during the “It just gets worse every day,” Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club’s casino night at Scotch Hills Country Club. The event was held as a fundraiser for the Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr said Frazee House Museum renovations. at her borough council’s meeting, af- ter learning they would lose $186,669. Mountainside Councilman Glenn BOE to Hold Budget Meeting Next Mortimer echoed the sentiment. “I don’t know what they are looking to accomplish by punishing small towns,” he said. “I, for one, would Week, Discusses ‘Illegal’ Students fight a consolidation of towns. It By JESSICA E. JASKULA “Student Supervision After School colleagues. would punish our residents.” Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times Dismissal” is a new policy that is Ms. Mast said groups of teachers Mountainside resident Audrey SCOTCH PLAINS – The Scotch “primarily aimed at walkers or stu- “collaborate and analyze what’s hap- Cunningham said, “One of the rea- Plains-Fanwood Board of Education dents who are eligible but choose not pening in the classroom.” A new ele- sons why I left Essex County to move on Tuesday announced that the pub- to ride buses,” she said. ment includes a child study in which to Mountainside was the benefit of lic budget meeting would be held on Board member Jane Costello asked multiple students are interviewed, Courtesy of Lt. Col. Tim Whalen HEAVILY ARMED IN IRAQ...Lieutenant Colonel Tim Whalen, right, is accom- lower taxes, as well as the small-town Wednesday, March 19. whether there was any public feed- helping teachers understand how their panied by a heavily armed companion (nametag Patter) while walking in Iraq. feel of a unique little town, which my Also at this upcoming meeting, the back regarding the “advertising cor- students make sense of certain topics. The colonel provided his thank you to citizens in the Scotch Plains area for their kids love. It’s nice to know your neigh- board will vote on a number of policy porate sponsorships” policy, but was Lynn Sanders, a kindergarten letters during a phone call from Baghdad to the newspaper last Friday. bors and to be able to go to school, topics, including advertising corpo- told there was none. teacher at Evergreen School, said that participate in sports and share com- rate sponsorships, pregnant students, An audience member asked the the best part of the experience was munity memories with your fellow recruitment, selection and hiring and board’s opinion regarding rumors of having the “opportunity to really step Mountainsiders. The librarian, local student supervision after school dis- “illegal students,” those not living in back from my teaching and become Live from Iraq: Col. Thanks police officers know my kids. I know missal. the district, attending the local schools an observer of the children.” the parents of all my kids’ friends, Superintendent Margaret Hayes and how such situations are handled. Her class was videoed for Lesson which gives me some level of secu- said that the “pregnant students” and Thomas Beese, director of Special Study, and she was able to watch her Community for Support rity in this big, impersonal world.” “recruitment, selection and hiring” Services, said that his office does students’ ability to grasp a concept. By HORACE CORBIN and the danger of pulling troops out Although a larger town (popula- policies are updates in order to “keep investigate these matters but that he Charlene Hall, a third-grade teacher Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times too soon. tion 29,944), Westfield stands to see our policies in compliance with our does not investigate “anything that at Brunner Elementary School, con- IRAQ – The “great people at home The colonel said attacks in the CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 comprehensive equity plan.” comes to me on an anonymous level.” gratulated the “dynamic teaching tak- keep us going,” Lieutenant Colonel southern belt of Baghdad, Iraq com- He encouraged anyone with informa- ing place in our district” and said that Timothy Whalen, out of Fort Stewart prising eight provinces, had decreased tion to come directly to the adminis- she enjoyed having the opportunity in Georgia, told The Scotch Plains- from 27 attacks a day in 2007 to less Zoning Bd. Approves SP’s tration. to meet with teachers in different Fanwood Times on Friday afternoon. than five recently. Math supervisors Joan Mast and grade levels to see how students “We could not do what we do without He said during the last few days, Merrie Snow gave a presentation on evolve. the support we get back from home.” the southern belt, “about the size of First Bed-and-Breakfast Lesson Study at the meeting, a pro- Teachers from different grade lev- Interviewed from Baghdad, Col. West Virginia,” had experienced no By FRED T. ROSSI to have a bedroom located in the fessional-development program that els work together to see how a certain Whalen spoke to the newspaper for attacks. Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times basement of a house and whether a allows teachers to analyze their own subject matter, such as fractions, nearly an hour, discussing a range of “Believe it or not…this is the first SCOTCH PLAINS — The separate means of exiting the base- teaching methods with the help of CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 topics surrounding the war in Iraq. time that’s happened in the 12 months township’s zoning board of adjust- ment, besides the interior staircase, He talked about the downward trend we’ve been here,” he said, noting an ment last week gave its unanimous was required. There were also con- in violence and the impact of the 80-percent drop in attacks in the area approval to an application to open the cerns raised about whether an exten- Mahr: FW Needs to Raise surge, as well as the focus on “capac- and a 65-percent reduction through- township’s first bed-and-breakfast sive sprinkler system and other fire ity building” while securing the popu- out the country. after board members pronounced safety measures were required. lation. “It’s truly amazing to see the change themselves satisfied with how the Mr. Tatsch was told in January to Taxes or Be Forced to Merge The interview can be heard in its that has taken place,” he said. business would be operated. look further into these matters and to By TED RITTER sitting up here.” entirety at goleader.com. He said the “window of opportu- Michael Tatsch first appeared be- also consider these expenses before Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times The governing body approved a Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the colo- nity” is the best and most open it has fore the board in January, seeking a moving forward with starting his busi- FANWOOD — Mayor Colleen resolution “opposing the failure of nel said he spent a lot of time in been for the solvency of economic use variance to convert part of his ness. At last Thursday’s hearing, Mr. Mahr, at the borough council’s regu- the Governor’s proposed 2008-2009 Westfield with his aunt and uncle, and agricultural institutions in the home at 233 Union Avenue into a Tatsch said he had researched state lar monthly meeting Tuesday night, Fiscal Year state budget to treat prop- Alice and Bill Kelly, in the early region. However, in order for that to three-room bed-and-breakfast that he and local statutes and regulations and announced that the proposed munici- erty tax relief as our priority.” 1970s. happen, “security had to be in place and his wife would operate. He told consulted with attorneys familiar with pal budget would be introduced at a Mayor Mahr said the borough is He then left for West Point and, before…We had to get the Iraqi army, the board two months ago that he bed-and-breakfast businesses and special meeting on Wednesday, March asking the state to “put the [munici- eventually, active duty. His wife, a the Iraqi police and the institutions envisioned attracting out-of-town found he could legally install various 19. pal aid] money back in” or to at least high school teacher, and his four el- viable enough so they can sustain this businesspeople visiting nearby cor- other fire safety devices, such as Pointing to Governor Jon Corzine’s “phase in the [aid] reductions.” ementary school-aged children live thing over the long haul.” porate offices and individuals or fami- smoke detectors and exit signs, short plan to reduce municipal aid state- The council also approved an ordi- in Texas. In terms of “the surge,” the increas- lies visiting the area for family wed- of an extensive sprinkler system. He wide – and by nearly $187,000, or nance authorizing the borough, if Col. Whalen lauded the “unbeliev- ing of troop levels to 165,000, the dings, reunions or other events. also said he would be able to install a about 17 percent, in Fanwood – the necessary, which now seems likely, able outpouring of generosity” from colonel said it has led to successes. He said only a handful of bed-and- separate basement exit that would mayor said, “A very grim picture is to exceed its state-mandated 2.5-per- area towns and thanked all local He said because of the increased breakfasts operate in the area, with allow him to comply with local regu- being painted for us.” cent municipal property tax increase houses of worship. Col Whalen said numbers, the military has been able ones in Plainfield, Fanwood and Sum- lations. Given that the borough plans to “cap,” increasing it up to 3.5 percent. the donations have a “tremendous to go into “AQI (Al-Qaeda in Iraq) mit being the closest. Board members commended his increase municipal spending by “one- “It is not easy; we are struggling to impact” on the troops, specifically sanctuaries” and clear them out. The At its January meeting, the board efforts, with Ken Anderson saying half of 1 percent,” Mayor Mahr said determine how to maintain the ser- mentioning the work of St. Helen’s surge has allowed the military to go raised some concerns about Mr. Mr. Tatsch “was following his pas- Fanwood either needs to “raise prop- vices that you expect,” Mayor Mahr Roman Catholic Church, which he on the “offensive” in these regions. Tatsch’s plan to have his own living sion but doing it in an educated man- erty taxes to maintain services or said. remembered was “only being built” The difference now, however, is that quarters, except for the kitchen, situ- ner.” merge with another community.” “There have been deafening calls in 1972 when he spent time in the military stays in these regions. ated mostly in the basement. There In other business, the board unani- She added, “Neither option is sit- to state government to cut spending,” Westfield. “We’re living in 57 outposts [in the were questions about whether it was mously approved an application to ting well with the elected officials CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Col. Whalen discussed topics rang- southern belt],” he said. “We don’t permissible under local building codes CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 ing from the exit strategy, the differ- ‘commute to work.’ We know we’re ence in Iraqi and American culture CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Council Approves Expanded Surveillance For Town Hall By FRED T. ROSSI and the courtroom and court-related Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times offices. The courtroom cameras will SCOTCH PLAINS — The town- help meet security-related mandates ship council on Tuesday approved a recently issued by the state Adminis- resolution releasing $17,102 to pur- trative Office of the Courts, which chase a state-of-the-art surveillance oversees courts throughout New Jer- camera system to be installed inside sey. and outside of the municipal build- In other business, the council ap- ing. Saying he hoped the new system proved a salary ordinance establish- “is the final piece” to the renovation ing the part-time position of station of the municipal building, Council- manager for TV-34. The salary range man Kevin Glover said the system for the new employee, who has yet to will “provide extensive coverage to be hired, will be $28,000 to $36,000.
our building and the surrounding The council also approved a resolu- Ted Ritter for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times area.” tion releasing $3,213 to be paid to DISTINGUISHED VOLUNTEER...Fanwood Police Sergeant Thomas Jedic (cen- The system, which will be pro- Bruce Eisenstein, a consultant on cel- ter, with his family) is honored by Councilman Bruce Walsh Tuesday night as the vided by Advanced Video Surveil- lular technology issues. Mr. borough’s volunteer of the month. lance Inc. of Fairfield, will expand Eisenstein met with the council last surveillance from several areas in- month to discuss cell tower issues PAGE INDEX Regional ...... 2-3, 18 Obituary ...... 8 Real Estate .... 11-17 Courtesy of Lt. Col. Tim Whalen side the police department to interior and the feasibility of enacting an or- hallways and entrances to the build- dinance prohibiting such towers in Editorial ...... 4-5 Education ...... 9, 19-20 Classifieds .... 17 BEAUTY IN IRAQ...Baghdad is a metropolitan area of eight million people with Community ... 6-8, 16 Sports ...... 11-15 A&E ...... 20-22 many mosques, canals and palaces. ing, the public and police parking lots CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 Page 10 Thursday, March 13, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Fanwood Budget Woes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the mayor noted, saying that the state place after a public hearing in late has “targeted towns of 10,000 [resi- June or early July. dents] and below.” In other business, Ms. Mitchell re- She continued, “There’s been a ported that the borough would re- great outcry among these ceive senior citizen program grants towns…When did small become in- from Union County, totaling nearly efficient? Bigger doesn’t mean bet- $14,000. ter, [and] we already provide a full The grants will be used to pay for range of shared services.” senior bus transportation and the She said, “If you like living in borough’s senior program coordina- Fanwood, you have to understand tor, and also to establish a senior what Trenton is trying to do to small handyman program. towns.” Mayor Mahr said the handyman Council President Katherine program, similar to existing programs Mitchell added that the municipal aid in other nearby towns, would provide cuts “affect us all drastically.” needy seniors with minor home re- ADDING THINGS UP…Harry McNally of Fanwood stands with sixth- to eighth- Mayor Mahr said the borough has pair services. grade state winners of MathCounts 2008, held at the Piscataway campus of held a “staggering” number of spe- “We pay a lot of attention to a lot of Rutgers’ student center on Saturday, March 8. Sponsored by the Professional cial budget meetings so far to develop people in our community but not Photo courtesy of Suzy Minken Engineering Society, MathCounts champions will compete in Denver, Colo. on the proposed municipal spending enough to seniors,” the mayor said, ONE LESS OAK TREE ON OAK AVENUE...Damaging winds over the weekend May 8 to 11 in the national finals. plan, to be introduced at next noting that she began increasing rec- felled an enormous oak tree in Westfield. According to neighbors, one trunk from Wednesday’s 7:30 p.m. borough reation and other programs for se- the base of the double-based tree fell onto a house on Saturday evening, interrupt- council meeting. niors shortly after taking office. ing power. Early afternoon on Sunday, the other trunk fell in the opposite The mayor emphasized that “there The mayor and council also ap- direction, making traffic impassable. Baghdad Calling is a difference between the introduced proved a resolution supporting the and adopted budgets.” She said the state Board of Public Utilities’ En- borough plans to apply for extraordi- ergy Star Program. The borough hopes WF Reports Downed Live from Iraq nary municipal aid – which must be to encourage at least 200 residents CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 dedicated to reducing the local prop- and businesses to replace standard not going to be there forever, so we per in e-mail fashion on Saturday erty tax burden – as it has done suc- light bulbs with new, and more effi- Lines, Trees From Storm bring in Iraqi security forces and part- night, Baghdad time, the colonel cessfully in the past few years. cient, compact, fluorescent bulbs in By MICHAEL J. POLLACK Chief Kelly said no one was in- ner with them…” wished to personally thank the fol- The mayor said final adoption of at least five commonly used light Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times jured; the building department de- “We’ve established over 1,600 lowing people: the budget is now expected to take fixtures. WESTFIELD – Between last Sat- clared the dwelling “unsafe,” and the checkpoints, manned by Iraqis, the From Westfield: Mary O’Donnell, urday and Sunday, the Westfield fire family is staying locally with a rela- Sons of Iraq, who are tired of vio- John Rochford, the Thornburn fam- and police departments responded to tive. A personal vehicle was also lence,” the colonel said. He said the ily, Deidre Gelinne, Angela Donnolo, SPF-BOE 26 and 33 storm-related calls, respec- “crushed” by the falling tree, the chief troops have had “tremendous suc- Rita Riccardi, Richard and Lucille tively. Heavy rains and wind led to mentioned. cess” in stopping “accelerants,” in- Ragoza, the Polini family (Alice and CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 felled power lines and trees. No inju- In a separate incident on Oak Av- cluding improvised explosive devices Emma), Barbara Ugenti and family, evolves over time. dent said. ries were reported. enue, a falling tree damaged a two- (IEDs), before they reach their desti- Don and Chris Ross (as well as chil- “There is a very healthy cross sec- The board approved an application Fire Chief Dan Kelly told The car garage. nation. dren, Thomas and Ross), Janet Getz, tion of teacher involved,” Ms. Mast for Park Middle School’s Italian class Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times that Chief Kelly said the fire depart- “We inspect everything coming in Christina O’Connor and Rita Ricardi said. to take a field trip to New York City’s 16 of the 26 responses related to ment worked with local police and [to Baghdad] from the south,” the (second-grade CCD class, St. Helen’s) Ms. Snow said there are things Italian Culinary Institute, where stu- downed power lines, which had to be public-works personnel to secure ar- colonel said. “There are IED facto- Helen Fisher and the McSwingle fam- within the classroom that one can dents will partake in an Italian cook- monitored. eas that had suffered downed wires ries, and we have to get the bomb ily, as well as Kelly, Bill and Alice. “miss very quickly” and that Lesson ing class. Both sides of town experienced “for the safety of all pedestrians.” makers. We have a lot of personal From Scotch Plains: the Sosinski Study, through open-ended questions, Ms. Costello congratulated the isolated power outages, the worst last- He said the storm caused the clos- equipment, a lot of weaponry. We family, Don McVey, Patricia Wolpert, helps teachers to “uncover and dis- Scotch Plains-Fanwood High ing 20 hours. ing of some streets, including Oak have what we need.” Russ and Paulette Cicero, as well as cover where students are coming from School’s Repertory Theatre on a “re- Oak Avenue was hit the hardest. and Westfield Avenues. In a country where “nothing is black E. Hernandez. and where they are going” with re- ally phenomenal” performance of During the storm, a large “Y-shaped” Oak Avenue also experienced the and white,” Col. Whalen spoke about Col. Whalen also lauded the work gards to understanding a concept. Urinetown. oak tree split; part of the tree fell longest duration of lost power. By the need to bring people, of all Is- of institutions like the Red Cross A video example was presented, The boys varsity basketball team was through a house, and the other half Monday afternoon at 2 p.m., the power lamic denominations, together. The (redcross.org) and US AID showing two first-grade students de- congratulated for winning the Group 3 crashed into the street, according to was restored. colonel said on a local level, each (usaid.gov). He encouraged those who scribing a fraction in their own words. State Championship last Sunday. Westfield Police Sergeant Scott “We were fortunate that no resi- region’s respective sheik has the most wanted to support the troops to link “We are extremely fortunate to have “We salute the players, their Rodger. dents were injured,” Chief Kelly said. influence. In any given area, as many up with organizations such as these. this level of professional develop- coaches and their parents,” board Vice as 90 tribes may coexist. Commenting about the impact of ment in our district,” the superinten- President Linda Nelson said. “We discuss what they need to thrive the Presidential debate on troops in in their area and [hope to convince Iraq, the colonel said debate is “what’s POLICE BLOTTER them to] choose other means other great about democracy…It’s wonder- than violence,” the colonel said. ful that we debate. It’s something the SP Bed and Breakfast He said the American forces are Iraqi’s never had.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 helping to create a “market economy” He remains confident that “the right renovate and expand a Park Avenue exiting the lot would turn right on to Westfield Fanwood in Iraq and work to shore up hospitals people, not just the military, are in apartment building. Carol Kraus, the Saturday, March 1, Mario Hernandez, Wednesday, March 5, Yvonne Tay- Park Avenue and then work their way, 18, of Elizabeth was arrested on a lor, 40, of Plainfield was arrested on an (10 now exist in the southern belt) charge.” owner of the four-unit building at via other streets, back on to south- Roselle Park motor vehicle warrant outstanding Fanwood warrant after a and schools. Despite the amount of time candi- 457-459 Park Avenue, across from bound Park Avenue at peak traffic during a motor vehicle stop at North motor vehicle stop on Terrill Road. “Quite frankly, it was impossible dates spend speaking about the war, the Post Office, will renovate the ex- hours, when Park Avenue is “beyond Avenue and Elm Street. He was re- Wednesday, March 5, Daniel S. [before]. Al-Qaeda would terrorize the gains of the surge and possible isting building and construct an addi- difficult.” leased after posting $89 bail. Lundell, 29, of Garwood was arrested [the people] and destroy infrastruc- exit strategies, Col. Whalen said the tion that will result in 12 units, with a To remedy the potential problem, Saturday, March 1, Victorino and charged with driving under the ture,” he said. troops do not feel like a “political mix of one- and two-bedroom apart- the board included a condition in its Castaneda, 18, of Howell was arrested influence after he veered off the road on In terms of the enemy, Col. Whalen football.” ments. The apartments will range in approval that left turns at the property and charged with driving while intoxi- the 500 block of North Avenue, striking cautioned that it “is still out there. However, the colonel wished to size from 810 to 1,150 square feet. be prohibited during the morning and cated (DWI) at South Avenue and Sus- two parked motor vehicles and a build- Let’s not lose sight of that.” comment on exit strategies predicated Two of the units will be affordable afternoon pick-up and drop-off times sex Street. He was turned over to a ing. According to police, he was pro- The colonel spoke about “Opera- on immediate withdrawal. housing units for low- and moderate- at Park Middle School, which is lo- responsible individual. cessed and released to a responsible tion Thank You,” an order from Major He warned that pulling troops out income persons. The hearing was cated across from the apartment prop- Saturday, March 1, Edward Foote, individual. General Rick Lynch” to “tell the story” too soon would be a “huge step continued from last month so that the erty. In addition, drivers making right 65, of Scotch Plains was arrested at the Thursday, March 6, Dawnie of the war to three different popula- backwards…it would be a disaster.” applicant’s traffic consultant, Eliza- turns out of the parking lot will be Plainfield Police Department on a Campbell, 57, of Newark was arrested tions – the American public, the Iraqi He said he did not feel that instant beth Dolan, could provide testimony warned via signs to yield to pedestri- Scotch Plains motor vehicle warrant on an outstanding Whippany warrant public and the insurgency. He said and complete withdrawal, as a course regarding the new building’s impact ans crossing Park Avenue from the with bail of $427 and a Westfield traffic after a motor vehicle stop on Terrill the operation is important in order to of action, would be “viable” and en- on traffic on Park Avenue. Post Office. warrant. He was released on his own Road. A passenger in the vehicle, highlight the “positive gains” of the visioned a U.S. presence in Iraq, in Ms. Dolan told the board that about At last month’s hearing, several recognizance on the Scotch Plains war- Octavia Campbell, 22, also of Newark, American military. some form, for the foreseeable fu- eight automobile trips in and out of the residents of School Place, which runs rant with a March 12 court date and was arrested on outstanding warrants “It truly does have an effect [with ture. In July 2008, however, he ex- building’s parking lot per hour at peak held in lieu of $300 bail on the Westfield out of Elizabeth and Roseland. Both behind the property, raised concerns warrant. were processed and released, police the Iraqi audience],” the colonel said. pected to see 20 brigade combat teams driving times “will not create a nega- about large trucks using their street to Monday, March 3, Leonard A. said. He said the operation also reaches reduced to 15. tive traffic impact.” She said, though, access the property during the con- Luizza, 3rd of Avenel was arrested on a Saturday, March 8, Aliyah B. Reese, out to “our loved ones in the States, Ultimately, he said, “this is an Iraqi that cars will “have a difficult time in struction. But the board included a Rahway traffic warrant during a motor 23, of Roselle was arrested following a saying ‘thank you’ for their support; problem, and the solution must be rush hours” making left turns on to provision in its approval that all ac- vehicle stop at East Grove Street and motor vehicle stop on an outstanding we simply cannot do what we do with security by the Iraqi army and Park Avenue as well as left turns from cess to the site — during construction Summit Avenue. The warrant, in the warrant out of East Orange. without the support from the commu- the Iraqi police.” Park Avenue into the parking lot. and afterwards — would be only from amount of $500, was satisfied with bail Saturday, March 8, Jeffrey R. nities from across the United States.” Describing the country of Iraq, he She said it was likely that drivers Park Avenue. and he was released. Nahaczewski, 27, of Garwood was ar- He said troops both male and fe- said, “It is not so much about oil as it Monday, March 3, Mark Bradley, 39, rested and charged with shoplifting from male, as well as from “all different is about water.” of Dunellen was arrested on a Long Hill a North Avenue store. According to walks of life,” take part in the war He said the country boasts an “in- Township traffic warrant during a mo- police, store employees alerted authori- effort. In addition, soldiers under 18 tricate” canal system, and the mili- SP Council Meeting tor vehicle stop on Pine Street in ties and the suspect was apprehended fight for the United States. tary is working to get them jobs by CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Garwood. He was released after post- outside the store. Nahaczewski was “It’s pretty amazing that these kids establishing fish hatcheries in the re- certain areas. Deputy Mayor Nancy fundraising drive. Those wishing to ing $333 bail. processed and released with a sum- stand up and come over here because gion. Roughly 9,000 are underway. Malool said the funds would pay Mr. donate can send checks, made pay- Monday, March 3, Jaquelin Snyder, mons. it’s that important to them,” Col. Repeating the old Chinese proverb Eisenstein for attending the meeting able to “Korean War Memorial,” to 18, of Westfield was arrested and Saturday, March 8, severe winds Whalen said. “It’s a tremendous sac- “Give a man a fish; you have fed him and for follow-up communications the finance office at the municipal charged with DWI during a motor ve- caused substantial damage to residences rifice. Some have been here two, three for today. Teach a man to fish, and with township officials. building at 420 Park Avenue. hicle stop on North Avenue, East, and on La Grande Avenue, Rainier Road or four times. It’s truly inspirational you have fed him for a lifetime,” he The council also introduced twin Township Manager Thomas Atkins Euclid Avenue. She was released to a and North Avenue. According to po- to work side by side with these kids. said American troops are “teaching ordinances that will vacate the responsible individual. lice, several trees either fell or were said the fierce windstorms last week- Wednesday, March 5, Ryan J. uprooted, causing damage to homes They can’t even drink legally in the Iraqis how to fish,” both literally and township’s rights to two paper streets end resulted in the public works de- Grantuskas, 20, of Ringoes and Lee and other property. United States but are over here, ready figuratively. on the Terrill Road property where partment working overtime to clear G. Shadwick, 22, and Mary E. Bash, Monday, March 10, Leon Bownes, to give their life for their country. It’s He noted that the Iraqi people are the former Club Malibu nightclub downed limbs and branches from 20, both of Westfield, were arrested 45, of Union Springs, Ala. was arrested humbling, humbling to be in their “warm” and “deeply religious.” For was located. Councilman Jeffrey streets. He said three township-owned following a motor vehicle stop on on an outstanding body warrant out of presence.” Iraqis, recreation exists in the form of Strauss said the two paper streets, trees had fallen along with “many South Avenue near Center Street in Union Springs. According to police, he Col. Whalen said he and those in sports. “There’s soccer everywhere which are vacant pieces of land owned others” on private property. Garwood. was processed and turned over to the the southern region started getting [in Baghdad],” the colonel added. by the township and appear on tax At the start of the meeting, the All were charged with possession of Union County Sheriff’s Department. cards and letters last year from St. He said, “It’s an amazing culture, maps as named but unimproved council passed a resolution congratu- a controlled dangerous substance/ Monday, March 10, Pedro Pena, 36, Helen’s congregants. He said it is not as materialistic [as America’s]. streets, will be split between the ad- lating Christopher Casserly on achiev- heroin, possession of less than 50 grams of Plainfield was arrested for allegedly “amazing” that “strangers from half- It’s beautiful in its own way.” joining properties that house the Jiffy ing the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy of suspected marijuana and possession presenting authorities with several false way around the world would take He said people survive under “very Lube auto service outlet and the Jade Scouts of America. Mayor Marks also of drug paraphernalia. They were re- government documents after a field in- time to write.” austere living conditions. They lead Isle restaurant. issued a proclamation designating the leased on their own recognizance with vestigation. According to police, Pena The colonel said he tries to write agrarian lives.” Mr. Strauss said that Advanced Auto week of March 9 to 15 as Girl Scout summonses pending a March 12 Supe- was transported to the Union County back, when he can, to the many young- Most importantly, he said, like Parts would be opening a store on the Week. Mr. Casserly and several mem- rior Court date. Sheriff’s Department, where he was sters who take part in letter-writing Americans, Iraqis are hopeful people. former Club Malibu property. Public bers of Girl Scout Troop 256 led the Wednesday, March 5, Kenneth being held in lieu of $20,000 bail. campaigns from CCD classes, boy “They want to get back to work. hearings on the ordinances will be pledge to the flag at the beginning of Middleton, 29, of Elizabeth was ar- Mountainside and girl scouts They hope to get their kids to school. held on Tuesday, March 25. the meeting. rested and charged with DWI following Tuesday, March 4, a resident of Little “I carry cards and letters [to the They want healthcare, like we do. Mayor Martin Marks said organiz- The mayor also issued a proclama- a motor vehicle stop on South Avenue Court reported that someone entered outposts]; you give them to these kids They want their industries back. They ers of the Memorial Day parade are in Garwood. He was released on his her garage sometime overnight and re- tion declaring March 11 as Kathy own recognizance to a responsible in- moved a Global Positioning System out there that are working 24/7…the want to worship safely and peace- planning to purchase a clock to honor Matthews Day in Scotch Plains. Ms. dividual. from her unlocked motor vehicle. Ac- impact that some 10-year-old girl from fully. They beg for stability, nor- Korean War veterans, who will also Matthews, the Union Catholic girls’ Scotch Plains cording to police, the garage door was Westfield, New Jersey, can have on a malcy. be saluted in this year’s parade. The varsity basketball coach, last month Monday, March 3, a resident of Lake inadvertently left open. soldier in Wassit Province, near the “They want to go back to living clock, which will be placed in front of earned her 600th coaching victory — Avenue reported that someone smashed Thursday, March 6, an employee Iranian border, is pretty amazing, and without fear.” the municipal building, will cost becoming only the fifth coach in New his mailbox, which was valued at $100. working on Upland Road reported that it’s really important,” the colonel said. For more information, please see $13,000 to $15,000, the mayor said, Jersey girls’ basketball history to reach Wednesday, March 5, Luis Medina, someone entered his van through an Corresponding with the newspa- goleader.com/video. and will be purchased via a that milestone. 37, of Union City was arrested on an open window and removed his boss’s outstanding warrant after a motor ve- cell phone, valued at $200. hicle stop. Saturday, March 8, strong winds Wednesday, March 5, a resident of caused severe damage, as well as power If you’re a safe driver, I can help you Town Budgets See Red Cicilia Place reported that her neighbor outages, to residences located on Roll- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 let his dogs run without leashes. Ac- ing Rock Road, Ledgewood Road, For- save up to 25%. Call me today. cording to police, the dogs came on her est Hill Way, Old Tote Road and the a drop in aid of $411,844 or 9 percent. get will raise taxes in all but of one of property and barked and caused dam- municipal building. “All of the Corzine cuts will end up the county’s 21 municipalities. Lo- age. Saturday, March 8, John Darabos, getting pushed down on the town and cally, county taxes are set to increase Thursday, March 6, a resident of 23, of Edison was arrested and charged transferring [the problem to munici- $1,767,931 in Westfield, $531,938 Raritan Road reported that someone with driving while intoxicated (DWI) NELSON C. ESPELAND, palities],” Westfield Mayor Andy in Scotch Plains, $151,704 in had removed her wedding ring, valued after a motor vehicle stop for reckless LUTCF Skibitsky. Fanwood, $249,720 in at $5,000, from her room. and careless driving. He was transported The State Legislature is expected Mountainside, and $189,494 in Friday, March 7, Thomas Jovan, 28, to police headquarters, where he was (908) 233 6300 to vote on the budget in late June. Garwood. of East Orange was arrested on an out- processed and released to a responsible SCOTCH PLAINS “We will try to restore the $190 “At least Corzine is talking about standing warrant after a motor vehicle individual, police said. million,” Mr. Dressel added. the problem. The county is spending stop. Sunday, March 9, Osei E. Sarabo, 32, [email protected] Mr. Corzine is expected to sign the $1.2 million per day. This shows Saturday, March 8, David Doby, 28, of Irvington was arrested for driving state budget on July 1. they are out of touch with (the) resi- of South Plainfield was arrested on an with a suspended license after his mo- In addition to state municipal aid dents of Westfield,” Mayor Skibitsy outstanding warrant after a motor ve- tor vehicle became disabled in a lane of numbers, local towns have been in- said. hicle stop. traffic on Route 22, West. formed that the proposed $436.1- Michael J. Pollack and Paul J. Sunday, March 9, Larry Hill, 29, of See more news at Discount and insurance subject to availability and qualifications. Discount amount may be lower and applies to most major Newark was arrested on an outstanding coverages.Allstate New Jersey Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Home Office, Bridgewater, NJ ©2006 Allstate million Union County executive bud- Peyton contributed to this story. Insurance Company. warrant after a motor vehicle stop. goleader.com Page 2 Thursday, March 13, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION Police Academy Begins Freeholders Comment Alternate Route Program On Closing of Muhlenberg SCOTCH PLAINS — Union have participated in the program since By PAUL J. PEYTON what he has heard, the closing of County Prosecutor Ted Romankow its inception; and so far, we have an Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times Muhlenberg “is a done deal.” has announced that the John H. excellent placement rate,” Mr. ELIZABETH — County officials Freeholder Chester Holmes, a Stamler Police Academy will offer Romankow said. have requested information on the Rahway resident, asked if the alternate route basic police pro- Starting on March 3, anyone inter- number of patients treated at the emer- Muhlenberg’s vendors faced a loss of gram in the next police recruit class ested in applying for the Alternate gency room, and those that have to be revenue due to outstanding bills to beginning on or about July 18. Route program may pick up an appli- admitted, at Muhlenberg Medical the hospital. “One of the project’s goals is to cation in person at the Police Acad- Hospital in Plainfield. The 130-year- “They (Muhlenberg) are still pay- create a pool of trained officers [that] emy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in old hospital announced it would close ing their bills. They are not going into could then be hired by local police Scotch Plains. by the end of the year, after posting a bankruptcy, Chapter 11,” Mr. Guzzo departments, sparing municipalities When an applicant completes the budget shortfall of $19 million last replied. the costs associated with training a application and makes a payment of year. Freeholder Rayland Van Blake, a police officer,” Mr. Romankow said. $60 to cover the initial application and “This is a regional issue,” said Free- Plainfield resident, said he was “se- “The alternate route program was test fee, he or she will be given a study holder Rick Proctor, the health of- verely disappointed” in Solaris deci- first offered as a pilot project at the guide. For further information, con- ficer for Scotch Plains and Rahway. sion to close Muhlenberg. academy in 1993,” said Hillside Po- tact Mr. Danco at (908) 889-6112. All He said the hospital’s coverage area “This (Muhlenberg’s closing) is a lice Chief Robert Quinlan, president applications must be returned on or includes Plainfield, Scotch Plains and much bigger issue, certainly, than the of the Union County Police Chiefs before 1 p.m. on Monday, March 31. Fanwood, as well as parts of Somerset monetary issues,” Mr. Van Blake said, Association. “One hundred percent and Middlesex Counties. noting that residents might have to of all alternate route candidates gradu- Aging Div. Sets Dates GO TO YOUR ROOM…Union County officials take a tour of the new juvenile He said the hospital’s closing would travel another 20 minutes by car to ating from the academy are in excel- detention center in Linden. The $39-million facility, 72,000-square-foot facility mean that the practice of providing reach the next closest hospital. lent position to obtain jobs in law For Outreach Program will serve up 76 detainees. The facility is set to open next month. medical care to those without insur- He urged the freeholder board to enforcement,” he added. COUNTY — The Union County ance, referred to as “charitable care,” do whatever it could to keep the Candidates completing a written Department of Human Services, Di- would shift to other regional hospi- hospital’s doors open. Mr. Van Blake examination and review process be- vision on Aging, will bring its out- Task Force to Address tals, thus causing a loss of revenue for said he was in touch with Assembly- come part of the academy’s regular reach services program for senior those facilities. man Jerry Green (LD-22, Plainfield), police training class. adults to Linden, Plainfield and Officials said Robert Wood Uni- who has formed a task force to ad- Academy Director Sandy Danco Cranford during the month of March. Muhlenberg’s Closing versity Hospital at Rahway, Trinitas dress the issue. said, “The alternate route recruits re- Division on Aging staff will assist PLAINFIELD – Assemblyman are phased out, as well as sustaining Hospital in Elizabeth, Overlook Hos- “I will speak to Assemblyman ceive the same instruction as the regu- seniors with information and help in Jerry Green (LD-22, Plainfield), last dialysis and home care to the com- pital in Summit and JFK Medical Green tonight (March 6) to see what lar police cadets during the 20-week applying for a variety of government week, convened the first meeting of munity. Mr. Green said the task force Center in Edison would have to pick we can do to support his efforts,” Mr. training session.” The training courses assistance programs, including gas and the Health Care Task Force to address is now identifying the priority areas up the void left by Muhlenberg’s clos- Van Blake said. include firearms, weapons of mass electric support (LIFE LINE), phar- the provision and access to priority that need to be addressed by other ing. When asked whether he knew the destruction, terrorism, use of force, maceutical assistance (PAAD) and health services after Muhlenberg hospitals and the health center such Mr. Proctor said the closing of other hospital’s closing was imminent, court procedures, crime prevention, home energy assistance (HEAP). Regional Medical Center closes. as adequate transportation to area hospitals, including Union Hospital, Freeholder Rick Proctor said, “I was community relations, juvenile crime, There will also be screening for Supple- “While it would be my hope that healthcare providers in the region. presents a health issue to the county. surprised when I heard it.” domestic violence, the state criminal mental Security Income (SSI) eligi- Muhlenberg could remain open, we “We need tangible solutions that “We are going to be critically short In other business, Dennis Kobitz, code, drug enforcement, crash injury bility and information about the Se- must be realistic and begin to plan for our residents can count on,” Mr. Green of hospital beds in a very short time,” deputy administrator for the Union management, crime scene manage- nior Health Insurance Program (SHIP). our community if the hospital does said. “I am confident this task force Mr. Proctor said. County Board of Elections, told the ment and constitutional law.” The Outreach Services Program indeed close,” Mr. Green said. can deliver a plan that will ensure “It does present a serious health board that Princeton University has “The academy functions much like will visit the following The task force met in Plainfield basic health services are delivered to issue on the part of our county” in that agreed to review voting machines used a military basic-training course,” Mr. locations:Thursday, March 13, from and included Plainfield Mayor Sharon the City of Plainfield and surround- services are being cut, Freeholder by the county in the recent Presiden- Danco said. The alternate route and 11 a.m. to noon at the Murawski Robinson-Briggs and the chief ex- ing communities.” Chairman Angel Estrada said. tial Primary Election to determine regular police cadets wear the same Towers, 1551 Dill Avenue, Linden; ecutive officers from Solaris Health Frank Guzzo, the county’s human how voting results from the machine’s uniforms and must adhere to a strict Friday, March 14, from 1 to 2 p.m. at System and Muhlenberg Regional County Sets Hearing services director, said a representa- cartridges and paper printouts dif- military regimen, including daily the Plainfield Towers, 601 West Sev- Medical Center, Robert Wood tive of Solaris Health systems, which fered. physical training. enth Street, Plainfield; and Saturday, Johnson University Hospital, St. Dates for Budget operates the 396-bed acute care facil- He said the manufacturer of the “All alternate route candidates must March 19, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Peter’s University Hospital, Somerset ELIZABETH—Union County ity at Muhlenberg, in addition to JFK, voting machines, Sequoia Voting Sys- have a minimum of 60 college credits at Cranford Gill Senior Apartments, 40 Medical Center and Overlook Hospi- Freeholder Fiscal Affairs Committee told him only 25 percent of these tems, has blamed the miscounts on an institution of higher learning.” Mr. Meeker Avenue, Cranford. tal. Other members of the task force Chairman Al Mirabella has an- patients treated last year at the hospi- poll worker error, saying they pressed Romankow said. “The alternate route For information, call the division’s include the heads of the Plainfield nounced a schedule of meetings in tal were “private pay” insured pa- incorrect buttons prior to people vot- candidates are not guaranteed a posi- toll-free number, (888) 280-8226. Health Center and Union County March and April for the review of the tients, with the remaining patients ing in either the Republican or Demo- tion by completing the program but College, as well as representatives 2008 executive budget. being “non-compensated” persons. cratic races, thus causing incorrect will have met all the state requirements MVC Offers Online from the New Jersey Department of The dates and times are: Thursday, A Star-Ledger article reported that voter turnout totals. necessary to become police officers.” Health and Senior Services. March 20, 3 p.m.; Wednesday, April Muhlenberg treats 35,000 patients a The board is set to vote tonight to Seventy percent of the program is Safer Driving Courses “It is vital to have all of the 16, 5 p.m.; and Saturday, April 19, at 9 year and has a workforce of 1,100, approve a resolution to support NJ open to in-county residents, and 30 TRENTON — Motor Vehicle Com- healthcare providers in the area at the a.m. All meetings are held in the Free- including 350 affiliated physicians. Transit’s proposal to operate dual- percent may come from outside the mission (MVC) Chief Administrator table, working together, to develop holder conference room, adjacent to He said Solaris has filed a “certifi- mode train cars on the Raritan Valley county. The tuition for the course is Sharon Harrington has announced that alternatives and options for our most the main meeting room on the sixth cate of need” with the state to close line during off-peak hours and week- $1,270. Alternate Route candidates the MVC has entered into partner- vulnerable residents impacted by the floor. County Manager George the hospital. Mr. Guzzo said ends, creating a “one-seat” to Penn demonstrating financial hardship will ships with two groups that will offer closing of Muhlenberg,” Mr. Green Devanney presented the $436.8-mil- Muhlenberg’s nursing school would Station New York. One of NJ Transit’s be given one year, from the time they online defensive driving courses for said. “We have set an aggressive lion executive budget last month. Man- stay open but that the hospital’s emer- major projects is the construction of a obtain a position in law enforcement, New Jersey drivers. agenda that will produce specific rec- dated costs, such as salaries, health gency room services “will be severely second transit tunnel to New York. to pay the tuition. The American Safety Council’s ommendations by May 2008.” insurance and pensions, largely con- limited” as patients would no longer “This (ARC) is a project that has to These candidates can also receive course is available at At this time, Solaris Health System tributed to a $26-million deficit, which be admitted, thus creating a “real occur. It’s a multi-billion dollar 12 credits if they enroll in a course at safemotorist.com for a $49 fee, while has committed to providing a satellite was cut to $15.4 million, officials said. hardship” for area residents, espe- project,” Mr. Sullivan, a member of Union County College. the “I Drive Safely” course is at emergency room on-site at Officials said the freeholders will seek cially in Plainfield. the North Jersey Transportation Plan- “Two hundred and thirteen people idrivesafely.com for $50. Muhlenberg after acute-care services ways of making additional cuts through While the level of emergency ser- ning Authority, said. the department-by-department annual vices that might still be handled after The Access Region Core (ARC) review over the next few months before the hospital no longer admits patients project is scheduled for completion iѮ F#FTU,FQU4FDSFUu voting to introduce a final budget. is undetermined, Mr. Guzzo said from by 2017. JO/FX+FSTFZ 4QFDJBMJ[JOHJO ATTEND A FREE SEMINAR XFEEJOHT CJSUIEBZQBSUJFT BOOJWFSTBSJFT IPMJEBZQBSUJFT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BOEGVOESBJTFST
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PUBLICATION The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES Thursday, March 13, 2008 Page 3 Campaign Release, 7th Congressional District NJ Takes Action Against Marks Rips Washington Unregistered Contractors NEWARK – The number of contrac- into with the Division of Consumer On Funding Vets’ Health Care tors filing with the state’s Division of Affairs. SCOTCH PLAINS – Mayor Martin ington is failing them. I am running Consumer of Affairs, under New The HIC program and its staff of 17 Marks, Republican candidate for Con- for Congress because our govern- Jersey’s Home Improvement Contrac- employees are funded through regis- gress in the Seventh District, last week ment needs to ensure that veterans tor law, has reached 50,000. tration fees. The HIC unit’s budget this said Washington has failed “to address receive the retirement and healthcare The HIC law, which took effect on fiscal year is approximately $3 million. one of the most important concerns benefits that they were promised when January 1, 2006, requires all home im- Consumers can check online to see facing American veterans – adequate they enlisted.” provement contractors to register an- whether a home improvement contrac- funding for the Department of Veter- “If we can send billions of dollars nually with the Division of Consumer tor is registered, by going to ans’ Affairs (VA) healthcare system overseas in foreign aid, if we can Affairs. To date, more than 43,000 reg- njconsumeraffairs.gov/contractors. An and related benefits programs.” spend billions of dollars on a space istrations have been issued for the ap- online complaint form is available at Courtesy of Heidi Hylan “Providing for our military veter- program and if we can spend billions RAGING WATERS… The water level in the creek at the back of Mindowaskin plications received. The remaining njconsumeraffairs.gov. ans and their families is a continuing of dollars on unneeded pork projects, Park in Westfield rises during Saturday’s torrential rainstorm. 7,000 applications are pending review Consumers also can file complaints cost of war and should be an impor- then we can certainly provide for our or have been found to be missing data. by calling (800) 242-5846 (within New tant component of our national de- veterans and their families, make them Campaign Release, 7th Congressional District Among other things, registered home Jersey) or (973) 504-6200. fense policy. Indeed, our commit- as whole as possible again and give improvement contractors must: main- ment to take care of our veterans and them the dignity that they so richly Whitman Says ‘Stender’s tain commercial general liability insur- their families is a reflection of our deserve,” the candidate said. ance in a minimum amount of $500,000 WF Chamber Hosts nation’s priorities and values. It is “Whether or not you agree with the per occurrence; display the state-is- A Ping-Pong Party time for this Congress to change U.S. policy in Iraq and Afghanistan, Priorities Are All Wrong’ sued HIC registration number in their course and fully fund the VA, cease the aging of our World War II, Korea place of business, in all advertisements, WESTFIELD — The Westfield AREA – Republican Kate Whitman, a “I am the only candidate discussing the Area Chamber of Commerce is host- trying to shift the costs of healthcare and Vietnam War veterans has in- candidate for the Seventh District, released issues, and have pledged to taxpayers to put in all business documents, including onto the backs of veterans. creased demand for VA services. contracts and on all commercial ve- ing a ping-pong party on Wednesday, the following press release. them first with my ‘six-point plan’ to change March 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the New “Unfortunately, the budget requests However, year after year, Washing- “This past weekend, tax-and-spend As- Congress. My plan will 1) Reduce taxes by hicles; put home improvement con- have not kept pace with the demand ton has provided inadequate funding tracts with a purchase price exceeding Jersey Table Tennis Club (NJTTC), semblywoman Linda Stender attended a cutting wasteful spending 2) Help improve located at 226 North Avenue, second for veterans’ healthcare. The proposed for veterans’ healthcare. Each year fundraiser for her congressional campaign the economy for our hard-working taxpay- $500 in writing and list all terms and Fiscal Year 2008 (FY08) budget once the budgets include proposals to in- with liberal Speaker of the House Nancy ing families 3) Force illegal immigrants to conditions of the contract. floor. again has forced veterans to pay more crease veterans’ co-payments and Pelosi,” Ms. Whitman said. “Meanwhile, self-deport 4) Enact Ethics Reform, clean Contract terms and conditions must Those interested should RSVP to out of their own pockets for fees, essentially taxing certain veter- Stender’s Governor, Jon Corzine, decided up corruption in Washington, D.C. 5) Pro- include the price, a description of the Dan Guttman at [email protected] or healthcare, underestimates the needs ans for their healthcare. Each year, not use his veto power to stop the Delaware vide affordable healthcare for all families work to be done, materials to be used, (732) 283-8700. River Port Authority from using $10 mil- and 6) Finish our work in Iraq and Afghani- Those who attend should bring of service members returning from Washington fails to request what is lion – collected in tolls on New Jersey’s Ben stan, and continue to ensure our homeland and the dates or time period within Iraq and Afghanistan and underfunds needed for veterans programs and which the work will be begun and sneakers and be prepared to play and Franklin, Walt Whitman, Betsy Ross and security while bringing our troops home get pointers from the instructors. Mas- key research, training and manage- relies on accounting gimmicks such Commodore Barry Bridges – for a soccer safely. completed. The contract must be signed ment programs necessary to provide as ‘management efficiencies’ and in- by all parties, and a copy of the certifi- ter chef Stephen Bigmore of Feast stadium in Chester County, Pennsylvaina, “Taxpayers deserve better than they are Catering restaurant will cater the efficient and quality service to veter- accurate healthcare protections,’” Mr. even though New Jersey drivers’ are foot- getting from Trenton’s career politicians. I cate of commercial general liability ans,” Mr. Marks said. Marks said. ing the bill. offer real solutions to the real problems we insurance with the contract must be event. Free chair massages will be “New Jersey has one of the fastest “Our country has made a promise “Where is the leadership for taxpayers? face. Linda Stender is part of the problem. provided. given by Massage Envy, and live mu- growing veterans’ communities in the to care for those who have defended Corzine and Stender know that those tolls – That’s why I am confident I will be elected HICs cannot obtain construction per- sic will provided by New Jersey Work- nation. Our soldiers, veterans and their and protected our nation,” Mr. Marks collected from New Jersey residents – should by voters here at home to Congress in mits from municipal construction code shop for The Arts. NJTTC will pro- be used to fix roads and bridges, not build November.” vide the racquets and balls. families deserve nothing but the best said. “Our leaders in Washington soccer stadiums in Pennsylvania. Once offices unless they are registered, under from our government. Sadly, Wash- must keep that promise by funding again, Stender has failed taxpayers, just like WF Pool Information state law. the essential programs that provide she failed to fight the Governor on his toll- “The HIC law has benefited both Reading is Good For You Nancy Pelosi Stumps healthcare and support services for hike plan. Mailed to Residents homeowners and legitimate contrac- veterans. America’s soldiers have “Linda Stender’s priorities are all wrong. WESTFIELD — The Westfield tors,” Acting Consumer Affairs Direc- For Linda Stender done their part to protect America. It A career politician since 1988, Linda Stender Recreation Department recently tor Larry DeMarzo said. “State and SADDLE RIVER – The Speaker is time for Washington to provide chose to fundraise with liberal Speaker mailed Memorial Pool membership local officials are finding and taking adequate funding to ensure that our Nancy Pelosi for her fifth political office, information to all residents. Anyone action against unregistered home im- of the House of Representatives, instead of fighting for taxpayers. It is all too Democrat Nancy Pelosi, last week- veterans returning home from tours clear that if Stender ever got to Washington who did not receive the notice should provement contractors.” end, was a guest at a house party in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the he- she would be a rubber stamp for Pelosi. call (908) 789-4080 or stop by the More than 30 home improvement benefiting Democratic state Assem- roes from our previous conflicts, re- Pelosi brings in liberal special-interest mon- recreation office at 425 East Broad contractors have settled matters involv- blywoman Linda Stender’s congres- ceive the care and benefits they have ies, so now Stender won’t stand up to her Street, Monday through Friday, be- ing violations of the HIC law last year, goleader.com/subscribe sional campaign. justly earned and deserve.” just like she won’t stand up to Corzine. tween 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. mainly through consent orders entered Speaker Pelosi said, “Linda Stender is a talented candidate with a proven record of fighting to end global warm- ing, promoting life saving stem-cell Comfort, comfort. research and fighting for hardworking middle-class families. I am confident that, come November, the voters of and a free comforter! north New Jersey will elect Linda Stender, who will put their concerns first.” “I am thrilled that Speaker Pelosi is strongly supporting our campaign for SAVE 35-50% change in the Seventh District,” said Mrs. Stender, who represents the 22nd * Legislative District in Trenton. “I’m on Shifman Handcrafted Mattresses running for Congress to create jobs, fight for energy independence and end AND RECEIVE A FREE DOWN COMFORTER* Bush’s war in Iraq. I am looking with hope and optimism to the future. And I Indulge yourself in the handmade look forward to working with Speaker Pelosi in Congress to bring about much- luxury of a Shifman mattress. A needed change after eight years of Bush- mattress so comfortable you can Cheney mismanagement.” hardly wait to climb into bed at As of December 31, the Stender Cam- paign said it has raised more than night. 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