our 118th year – issue no. 31-2008 sixty cents asm. neil ... · our 118th year – issue no....

Ad Populos, Non Aditus, Pervenimus

OUR 118th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 31-2008 SIXTY CENTS (908) [email protected], July 31, 2008USPS 680020

Periodical – Postage Paid at Westfield, N.J.Published Every Thursday Since September 3, 1890

www.goleader.com

PAGE INDEXRegional ........ 2-3Editorial ........ 4-5Community ... 6-7, 14

Obituary ........ 6Education ...... 15Sports ............ 9-12

Real Estate .... 9-13Classifieds .... 13A&E .............. 16

Martin Sweeney for The Westfield LeaderROAD TRIP…Congressional candidate and Asw. Linda Stender (D, LD-22),center, is joined by Scotch Plains (D) candidates Theresa Mullen for council, left,and Kevin Glover for mayor at Scotchwood Florist on Monday, July 28. Asw.Stender began a four-day trip through New Jersey’s Seventh CongressionalDistrict to reach voters with her campaign’s goals.

Asm. Neil Cohen Resigns AmidChild Pornography InvestigationBy MICHAEL J. POLLACK

Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

AREA – After allegations that por-nographic images of children werefound on his legislative office com-puter, Democratic AssemblymanNeil Cohen (LD-20, Union) resignedon Monday.

Senator Raymond Lesniak andAssemblyman Joseph Cryan, whoshare the Union office with Mr.Cohen, were told of the pornographicmaterial, and they informed the Of-fice of Legislative Services.

Assemblyman Cryan and SenatorLesniak released a joint statementregarding the claims.

“We have been in constant touch

with the appropriate authoritiesthroughout this situation and willcontinue to follow the Office of Leg-islative Services guidelines andcounsel in this matter,” they said.

“While it was our proactive stepsthat led the investigation to this point,we are appalled at what has tran-spired. Both of us have known NeilCohen for more than two decades.We know him as a compassionateindividual, but if the allegationsprove true, clearly, there was a sideto him neither of us knew.

“We have been instructed to notmake any further comments regard-ing this very serious matter.”

Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (LD-

21, Westfield) considered Mr. Cohena “friend” and someone across theaisle with whom he could work ef-fectively, he told The WestfieldLeader. The two have co-sponsoredlegislation together, and the Westfieldassemblyman said the news “haunts”him.

“Normally, I’m not shocked bythings,” Mr. Bramnick said. “Thisone shocked me. If these allegationsare true, and they are allegations atthis point, it’s really sad. If it’s true,I hope he gets help. If it’s not true, Ican’t wait till he gets back.”

Mr. Bramnick said, “I feel like Ilost a friend. This is sad stuff, and Iwish him well.”

Senator Nicholas Scutari (LD-22,Linden) said the news did not “shock”him.

“I’m not shocked about anythinganymore,” Mr. Scutari told TheLeader. “We had a governor (JamesMcGreevey) resign after he admit-ted he was gay. We had a governor(Eliot Spitzer) who prosecuted pros-titution and engaged [in prostitu-tion]. You just see more and morewacky stuff.”

Senator Scutari has known Mr.Cohen professionally since his timeas a Union County freeholder.Though he said he does not knowMr. Cohen personally, SenatorScutari said of Mr. Cohen, “He’s anexcellent legislator, well regardedand a passionate advocate.”

“Only because of the individualinvolved do I find it shocking,” headded. “It’s bizarre stuff. We’ll justwait and see. You try not to passjudgment.”

In a statement issued by his office,Senate Minority Leader Tom KeanJr. (LD-21, Westfield) called the al-legations of Mr. Cohen “horrific,”and said he is “confident AttorneyGeneral Anne Milgram will give thismatter the full attention of her of-fice.”

Union County Democratic Com-mittee Chairwoman CharlotteDeFilippo said she is “deeply sad-

Katherine Vowell for The Westfield LeaderSTOP, DROP AND ROLL... Members of the Mountainside Volunteer FireDepartment meet every Monday night at the Department Headquaters, locatedon New Providence Road.

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DWC Discusses RaceCancellation, State Grant

By WAYNE BAKERSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader

WESTFIELD — The last minutecancellation of last Wednesday’sDowntown Westfield 5K and an-nouncement of a $600,000 “grant”from the state for downtown improve-ments were discussed at Monday’smeeting of the board of the Down-town Westfield Corporation (DWC).Lack of a quorum meant telephonevoting was used to proceed with someorders of business.

The seventh edition of the Down-town Westfield 5K Race, commonlycalled the Pizza Run, was cancelledby the police at about 6:25 p.m. as asevere storm with lightning movedacross the area. The race, which hadbooked 1,600 pre-registrants and an-other 200 post-registrants, was ex-pected to be the biggest race to date.Rescheduling the race was determinedto be impractical, but another editionis to be held next year.

DWC Executive Director SherryCronin said, “Mother Nature camethough in fury,” and went on, “AnnaFerraro was wonderful, she invitedthe runners to come inside (Ferraro’sRestaurant).” Cosimo’s did the same.Yet the cancellation of the race mayhave helped local businesses. Boardmember Lisa Bertone of Rock’n JoeCafe said it was their “best Wednes-day ever,” and board memberDominick Verdic said, “They werelined up at Cold Stone (Cremery).”

Mr. Verdic said police ordered animmediate teardown of event tablescaused some problems, with tentsprotecting shirts coming down be-fore the shirts were packed. Mrs.Cronin said of the 2,300 shirts onhand, all but about 700 had beenpicked up. Those that had gotten wethave been dried and are available toregistrants who didn’t receive one byrequest. DWC had mailed shirts to a

few long-distance registrants whowould be unable to make it readilyback to town for that reason.

Diane Barabas, another board mem-ber, commented that she was amusedby the sight of runners sprintingthrough the rain carrying several piz-zas.

Discussion is being held to bringback the Michael Craig Band onWednesday, August 27 to fulfill theircontract for race night. The event willalso be used to highlight another side-walk sale, pending town approval, tobe held on the Wednesday, Thursdayand Friday leading up to Labor Dayweekend. The sidewalk sale of twoweeks ago was described by Mrs.Cronin as “hot, but good.”

At the meeting, Mrs. Cronin re-vealed that DWC has been awarded a$600,000 “grant” from the state forstreetscape work. The “grant” is ac-tually a zero-interest loan with$100,000 to be repaid on a 10-yearschedule and the rest on a 15-yearschedule. The money comes from theNew Jersey Department of Commu-nity Affairs and will be used to reducefunding costs of the DWC’s $315,000share of the South Avenue Streetscapeproject scheduled for this fall and tofund future phases of the project.

Telephone votes by Jaime Chavezof Xocolatz were used to approvegrants for appearance work at MelindaLane and at Creative Dental. It wasalso noted that several locations werein negotiations for rental or are inprocess of being occupied.

Sidewalk work at 17–33 Elm Streetwas also discussed, with a decisionmade to encourage the property ownerto patch and await the streetscapeproject. Also discussed was the de-sire of the DWC to encourage thetown to modify their ban on easelsigns to advertise such thing as res-taurant menus.

Largest Vendor LeavesWestfield Farmers MarketBy PAUL PEYTON and LAURA

MORTKOWITZSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader

AREA — Area produce buyers mayhave noticed a difference this yearwhen comparing apples to apples – orin this case, Westfield to Scotch Plains.

The Westfield Farmers Marketopened July 5 with less produce afterthe largest vendor - Hackettstown-based Donaldson Farms - was absentfrom the marketplace.

When reached for comment on Fri-day, Gary Donaldson of DonaldsonFarms, said a dispute started with aparking problem last year when theWestfield Area Chamber of Com-merce (WACC), which runs the mar-ket, started a flea market during theFarmers Market hours and distrib-uted 50 parking spaces at the WestfieldTrain Station to those vendors. Hesaid customers complained to ven-dors, who then took the complaints tothe Chamber.

He said Chamber Executive Direc-tor Naomi McElynn “ignored” thecomplaints, so one of his employees,an eight-year employee of DonaldsonFarms, went “over her (McElynn’s)head.”

“(The) Chamber is telling peoplewe had violations,” Mr. Donaldsonsaid, but added there was no record ofviolations. “This is a personal con-flict.”

Ms. McElynn said Mr. Donaldson’saccusations are inaccurate. She said thefarmer’s employee was asked to leavebecause the employee removed safetybarricades in violation of Farmers Mar-ket rules. The barricades were installedlast year following an accident at aFarmers Market in another state.

“We invited Donaldson back. Theytold us they were coming,” she said.

She said she spoke to Mr.Donaldson’s brother about followingthe rules and the importance of civil-ity at the markets.

Ms. McElynn said the employeewas upset with the new parking ar-rangements and barricades, thinkingthis took foot traffic away from thefarmers.

“I went to speak with her (about notmoving the barricades), but she refusedto speak with me,” Ms. McElynn said.

Ms. McElynn said the market man-agers, all WACC volunteers, had to

confront the Donaldson Farms’ em-ployee each time she moved the bar-ricades.

“We could not have this with ourmarket managers,” Ms. McElynn said.

She said the WACC had a “signedcontract” and a $100 check fromDonaldson Farms agreeing to partici-pate and to contract stipulations,which included banning the em-ployee. The letter was sent toDonaldson Farms in April.

“There were other incidents,” Ms.McElynn said, although she did notprovide further details.

Ms. McElynn said a new farmer isbeing added to replace DonaldsonFarms.

Right now, Westfield has nine ven-dors, two of which sell produce andvegetables. Donaldson had the larg-est table. Ms. McElynn said, “Foottraffic is consistent” over last year.

Meanwhile, the Farmers Market inScotch Plains has three produce ven-dors of the eight, and according toJeffrey Stein, promotional/marketingconsultant for the Business and Pro-fessional Association, “the market hasimproved since last year.”

“I think some people have said thatour market has a better variety offresh vegetables and fruit,” he said,adding that when Westfield moved itsFarmers Market from a weekday toSaturday, it might have done moreharm than good.

“If all of the local markets are onSaturday, then they start to take busi-ness away from each other,” Mr. Steinsaid.

“In the past, I know people enjoyedgoing to [to the Westfield Market] ona Wednesday, let’s say, and gettingfresh produce and coming to ourMarket on a Saturday and gettingfresh produce again,” he said. “Thatway they always had fresh produceduring the week.’

Mr. Stein added that this is the waythings are done in Europe. People cancook fresh food every day becausethey bought it fresh daily.

“We had the same situation here,”Mr. Stein said.

Recently, he noticed that more fami-lies and younger families have beenin attendance at the Scotch PlainsFarmers Market. These changes aren’t

Michael J. Pollack for The Westfield LeaderCONNECTED TO WESTFIELD...Union County Freeholder Chairman Angel Estrada and Fiscal Affairs Chairman AlMirabella visited the Westfield council, Tuesday evening, as they attempted to foster the relationship between the twoentities. Council members questioned the county representatives on issues of spending and the new performing arts centerin Scotch Plains. Pictured, from left to right, are Second Ward Councilwoman Vicki Kimmins, Mr. Mirabella, Mr. Estrada,Town Clerk Claire Gray, Mayor Andy Skibitsky and First Ward Councilman Frank Arena.

Benjamin B. Corbin for The Westfield LeaderWORK IN PROGRESS… Dredging and disposal of sediment at Echo Lake Parkin Mountainside and Westfield is expected to be completed by the end of August,with plantings to resume at that point. The $2.5-million Echo Lake Park projectbegan in 2007.

Volunteer OrganizationsStruggle to Find More Help

By KATHERINE VOWELLSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader

AREA – Running a rescue organi-zation is no easy task, and when thatorganization relies 100 percent onvolunteers, the task is all the morechallenging. Local towns have al-ways struggled with recruitment, butas volunteer levels are reaching an alltime low, these organizations are is-suing a cry for help.

The Mountainside volunteer FireDepartment has been the target ofpublic scrutiny over the past fewweeks. According to MountainsideFire Chief Neil Williams, part of theproblem is a lack of understandingregarding what goes on behind thescenes.

“What the general public doesn’tunderstand is that we don’t stop be-ing volunteers on Christmas, Thanks-giving or Halloween, and when theroutine fire alarms go off at 2 a.m., weare getting out of bed,” Chief Will-iams said.

With 29 members, volunteers try togive what they can, when they can.“Everyone works different hours, dif-ferent jobs, it is a give and take kindof thing. Most of us have families anda lot of us work two jobs, so it istough,” Chief Williams said.

In addition to their volunteer re-quirements, some members take ad-ditional classes to become certifiedEMT’s, licensed fire inspectors andHazmat technicians.

According to the chief, the short-

age of volunteers all goes back to amonetary issue. “It all comes down tothe money,” Chief Williams said. “Toask someone to go to fire academy isa big responsibility,” which accord-ing to the chief can be a financialburden on potential volunteers.

“The other side of the coin to that isit’s a [financial] responsibility downhere because we [fire department]pay for a physical and if we don’thave the proper equipment to fit thatperson, we have to buy it, which isalmost $2,000.”

“If the public is happy with the waythe taxes are, come down and volun-teer. If not, it [the volunteer fire de-partment] is going to be a dying thing,and eventually they are going to haveto have a paid fire department, and itis going to be costly.”

Chief Williams added, “To putdown the fire department and putdown negativity that we didn’t re-spond fast enough or we didn’t haveenough people, that may be true butwe still need the public’s help. Any-one that can volunteer is more thatwelcome to. It all goes back to pro-tecting your homes, friends and fami-lies. We’re here to save lives. I’m hereto try and do the best job I can forfree.”

Although the Mountainside RescueSquad uses a paid service during theday, its volunteer levels “have beenpretty low for a while now,” said vice-president of the squad, Corrine Moore.

Freeholders Visit WF Council, HearConcerns over Spending, Arts Center

By MICHAEL J. POLLACKSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader

WESTFIELD — Representativesfrom the Union County Freeholderboard attended Tuesday’s conferencesession and listened to concerns fromtown council members over countyspending.

Freeholder Chairman AngelEstrada and Al Mirabella, chairmanof board’s fiscal affairs committee,introduced themselves to the fullcouncil and stressed the need to main-tain a positive and productive rela-tionship with the town.

Westfield resident Tom Mineo, whoserves as the county’s engineer, wason hand to detail county roadworkthat will take place on Westfield streetsin the future.

Mr. Estrada called the proceedings“a great opportunity” for both sides

to understand each other’s operation.Mr. Estrada emphasized a “collabo-ration” with the town, mentioninghow “open space, recreation and his-toric preservation are areas where wework together to improve the lives ofresidents.”

Mr. Estrada said if any constituentshave concerns, “Our doors are al-ways open to suggestions.”

Mr. Mirabella, who addressed the

county’s financial picture, said heconsiders the county’s relationshipwith Westfield to be “strong” andsaid “the main thing is communica-tion.”

The freeholder board unanimouslypassed a $437-million budget for thisyear. On an average Westfield home,assessed at $183,500, a resident wouldpay $2,448 in county taxes, a $150

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Thursday, July 31, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A Watchung Communications, Inc. Publication

POLICE BLOTTER

Court Upholds ConvictionIn 2003 Westfield Arrest

dened” by this turn of events.“This is not the Neil Cohen I

know,” Ms. DeFilippo told TheLeader. “I’ve never seen anything toindicate this sort of behavior.”

Governor Jon Corzine called theallegations “deeply disturbing,” in astatement issued by his office.

Governor Corzine said, “All of uswho have worked with him areshocked by the reports. Child por-nography reflects a horrible debase-ment of children that is totally intol-erable. Creating, distributing and us-ing child pornography should be pur-sued vigorously by law enforcementwherever it is found.”

Mr. Cohen has represented the 20thDistrict, which includes Elizabeth,Kenilworth, Roselle and Union, since1994, and also served from 1990 to1991. He served on the Union CountyBoard of Chosen Freeholders from1988 to 1990.

Mr. Cohen also resigned as gen-eral counsel to the Union CountyUtilities Authority, a $109,000 post,and as Union County Planning Boardattorney, a $27,000 salary.

According to Susan Evans, direc-tor of communications at the NewJersey Department of State, understate guidelines the Union CountyDemocratic Committee has 35 daysfrom the time the department re-ceives notice of resignation to fillthe vacancy with an interim succes-sor. Ms. Evans told The Leader, Tues-day, that the department has yet toreceive Mr. Cohen’s resignation.

A special election will be held inNovember to fill the remaining yearon Mr. Cohen’s term. Both partiesmust have their candidate’s namescertified 48 days before the generalelection. The Democrats can chooseto place someone other than the in-terim successor on the Novemberballot.

Phil Morin, Union County Repub-lican Committee chairman, told TheLeader that if the allegations againstMr. Cohen are true, “He should beprosecuted to the fullest extent ofthe law. Never forget the real victimsin child pornography are the chil-dren themselves who are forced toparticipate in these heinous [acts].”

Mr. Morin said he has reached outto all four municipal chairs withinthe district and will have candidatesshortly. He said the GOP plans tohold a convention after potential can-

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Neil Cohen Resignationdidates are identified.

He said the GOP has “some prettynatural candidates,” including C.Louis Bassano, a former state sena-tor from the district; Linda Gagliano,a former Union school board mem-ber and 2007 state senate candidate;Kathi Fiamingo, the mayor ofKenilworth, and Roselle’s EstherGuzman-Malcolm, a former candi-date for sheriff.

He said no matter whom the Demo-crats select to fill the term, “they willjust give voters more of the same.”

On the Democratic side, Mr. Morincalled first-term Roselle Council-woman Cecelia Dallas-Ricks the“presumptive frontrunner” in a fieldthat also includes current FreeholderChairman Angel Estrada and PatriciaPerkins-Auguste, at-large council-man in Elizabeth.

Mr. Morin said he heard “rum-blings” that Mr. Estrada would beinterested.

Mr. Estrada, an Elizabeth residentand manager at the Elizabeth MotorVehicle Commission, confirmed withThe Leader on Tuesday that he wouldbe interested in the Assembly seat.

Mr. Estrada, who has lived in the20th district for more than 40 years,said he “knows the ins and outs” ofthe area, as well as the “makeup” ofthe community.

“I know what the job requires,” hesaid.

The freeholder added, “On the en-vironment, evening the playing fieldwith regards to social services andbringing the community together, myrecord is clear.”

With new dual-office-holding lawsin place, Mr. Estrada would have toresign from the freeholder board ifselected. His seat expires at the end ofthe year.

In 2006, Mr. Morin called for aninvestigation into Mr. Estrada’s ac-tions after then-Attorney GeneralZulima Farber called Mr. Estrada tostraighten out driver’s license and carregistration issues associated with Ms.Farber’s boyfriend, Hamlet Goore.

Mr. Morin said he is “not quitesure” what the results of the investi-gation were. “Regardless, it leavessome clear questions as to his judg-ment.”

While admitting that the situationis not clear, he said a “chain reac-tion” would go off if Mr. Estradawere tapped for the position.

WestfieldWednesday, July 23, Hector Menjivar-

Mejia, 35, of Plainfield was arrested on anoutstanding South Plainfield warrant andan outstanding Harding Township warrantafter a motor vehicle stop in the area of ParkStreet and Central Avenue. He posted bailand was released.

Wednesday, July 23, Michael C. Johnson,32, of Westfield responded to police head-quarters where he was arrested on an out-standing Garwood warrant. He posted bailand was released.

Wednesday, July 23, Salvatore Fazio, 24of Westfield responded to police headquar-ters where he was arrested for an outstand-ing Westfield warrant. He posted bail andwas released.

Friday, July 25, Jobin Mathew, 18, ofWestfield was charged with possession ofmarijuana in the area of Wells Street andFairacres Avenue after police received acall of a suspicious vehicle. Mathew wasreleased with a summons pending and acourt date.

Friday, July 25, Bishara Tyler, 32, ofScotch Plains was arrested on an outstand-ing New Brunswick warrant after a motorvehicle stop in the area of Lamberts MillRoad and Spruce Lane. Tyler posted bailand was released.

Saturday, July 26, a joint investigationwith Clark police resulted in the arrest ofthree individuals: Bryan Fowler, 20, Chris-topher Dean, 20, and Corey Perez, 20, allresidents of Cranford.

Police said the arrests were pursuant to aburglary of a residence on Manchester Drive.Each suspect was charged with burglary,theft, criminal mischief and possession ofburglary tools. Bail was set at $25,000 forDean and Perez and $10,000 for Fowler,police said, pending a superior court date ofAugust 1.

Sunday, July 27, Ikemefuna Okwuosa,21, of Union was arrested for an outstandingwarrant following a motor vehicle stop atEast Broad Street and Euclid Avenue. Heposted bail and was released.

Sunday, August 27, a resident of the 900block of Ripley Avenue reported the theft oftwo laptop computers and an emerald ring.The total value of items taken was placed at$18,500.

MountainsideThursday, July 24, a resident of Bay-

berry Lane reported receiving several callsfrom a collection agency regarding a checkthat he supposedly cashed in the amountof $1,022. According to police, the frontof the check had an address in Elizabethwhere the victim never resided and thevictim stated that he never wrote or casheda check in that amount. The victim filed

an affidavit stating the above and theincident is under investigation.

Thursday, July 24, a resident of Lark-spur Drive reported that as she was driv-ing on Route 22 she noticed a vehicle shedescribed as a dark red, older model com-pact four-door station wagon occupied byfive white males in their late teens travel-ing east. According to police, the victimstated that the vehicle attempted to paral-lel her car and when it was directly alongside hers, a passenger threw an object intothe open driver’s side window of hervehicle.

The object was determined to be a Ken-tucky Fried Chicken soda cup full of soda,police said. The victim did not sustain anyinjuries, but police have broadcasted a SPENalert to neighboring jurisdictions to stop andhold any vehicle matching the descriptionnoted in this report, authorities said.

Monday, July 28, Francisco G. Lebron,34, of Newark was arrested at the EssexCounty jail for an outstanding Mountainsidewarrant.

Scotch PlainsWednesday, July 23, Michael T.

Sweeney, 38, of Scotch Plains was arrestedfor an outstanding warrant out of Plainfield.According to police, he was processed andreleased after posting bail.

Thursday, July 24, Thomas P. Creamer18, of Elmwood Park was arrested andcharged with possession of marijuana aftera field investigation. According to police,he was processed and released on a sum-mons.

Thursday, July 24, Charles H. Williams,49, of Plainfield was arrested after a motorvehicle stop for an outstanding warrant outof Elizabeth. According to police, he wasprocessed and released after posting bail.

Thursday, July 24, Michael J. Molina,24, of Elizabeth was arrested for an out-standing warrant out of Elizabeth. Accord-ing to police, he was processed and releasedafter posting bail.

Friday, July 25, Ivano Pizzarno, 19, ofScotch Plains was arrested for criminalmischief and criminal trespassing after afield investigation. According to police, hewas processed and released with a sum-mons.

Sunday, July 27, Janine F. Lytle, 25, ofPlainfield was arrested after a motor vehiclestop for an outstanding warrant out ofMiddlesex. According to police, she was pro-cessed and released after posting bail.

Sunday, July 27, Xiomilka Rodriguez,26, of Allentown, Pa. was arrested andcharged with driving a vehicle reportedstolen from Jersey City. According to po-lice, she was processed and released with asummons.

ELIZABETH – On July 28, appel-late judges Rudy Coleman and Tho-mas Lyons ruled against WarrenGuerrier on appeal from the SuperiorCourt of New Jersey, Law Division,Union County.

The defendant’s position was thatthe arresting officers in 2003 in Westfieldviolated his rights under the FourthAmendment to the Constitution, to befree from unreasonable searches andseizures.

Defendant Warren Guerrier appealedan October 21, 2005 judgment of con-viction entered following the trial court’sacceptance of his March 2, 2005 guiltyplea – third degree conspiracy to com-mit the crime of identity theft, and thirddegree possession of devices and mate-rials to make false drivers’ licenses.

Guerrier had moved to suppress evi-dence seized from his car after a stopfor traffic violations in Westfield. Thecourt found that the police had the rightto stop the vehicle and probable causeto conduct the subsequent search of the

interior of the car because the smell ofmarijuana emanated from the vehicle.

The court found that the arrestingWestfield Police Officers had actedcorrectly.

On September 12, 2003, at approxi-mately 12:01 a.m., Officers James Stivaleand Kevin O’Keefe of the WestfieldPolice Department pulled over a Hondawagon driven by Guerrier. The reasonsfor the stop were that the officers ob-served that the car had an unreadableexpiration date on its Virginia licenseplate tag and the car’s front side win-dows were unlawfully tinted.

The officers approached the vehicleand asked the driver, Guerrier, to providehis driving credentials. Guerrier couldnot produce them. At that time, OfficerO’Keefe detected a strong odor of mari-juana emanating from the vehicle.

Officer O’Keefe then instructedGuerrier and his passenger, co-defen-dant Alexander Young, to exit the ve-hicle. Both men were advised of theirMiranda rights.

the only differences.The Scotch Plains Farmers Mar-

ket now has an organic baker, whichis new. He also said one the farmerssell organic produce grown fromanother New Jersey organic farmer.

According to the Global Marketfor Organic Food and Drink, or-ganic food sales have increased from$23 billion in 2002 to $40 billion in2006.

However, Westfield cannot jumponto the organic food bandwagonas easily as Scotch Plains has. Ms.McElynn had sought to bring or-ganic produce to Westfield throughthe Purple Dragon co-op, but as amember of the New Jersey Councilof Farmers and Communities pro-duce sold at the market must begrown in New Jersey and at thefarm owned by the farmer sellingthe goods. She said an inspectionrevealed that Purple Dragon importsorganic fruits. She also said thereare a limited number of organicfarmers in New Jersey and they pro-

duce a small volume of crops.The Chamber is looking into

whether it wants to stay a memberof the council. For the October 3Chamber board meeting, this topicis already on the agenda. The Cham-ber will look at both the benefitsand the restrictions of staying amember of the council. Some of theitems the Chamber will look intoare being able to sell organic foodand the fee that has to be paid to thecouncil to stay a member.

Scotch Plains is not a member ofthe council. Elizabeth, Roselle Park,and Springfield are the only otherUnion County towns that have mar-kets that are part of the council.

According to the DowntownCranford Management Corporation,Cranford has not had a Farmer’sMarket in about three years as theyhave their own farm in town,Dreyer’s Farm on Springfield Av-enue.

Katherine Vowell contributed to thisstory.

Michael J. Pollack for The Westfield LeaderA FAIR SHAKE...Fourth Ward Westfield Councilman Tom Bigosinski, left,shakes hands with Freeholder Al Mirabella. County representatives attended themeeting to hear concerns of the Westfield council and promote the relationshipbetween the county and municipality.

Muhlenberg Formally ClosesPlainfield Emergency RoomPLAINFIELD – On Wednesday at 8

a.m., Muhlenberg’s emergency roomwent on “full divert” status, meaningrescue squads must divert to other hos-pitals. On Tuesday, Muhlenberg Medi-cal Center sent a letter to local rescuesquads formally closing the emergencyroom in Plainfield. The letter reads:

“Dear Emergency Medical Techni-cian:

This letter will serve to formallyadvise you that Muhlenberg RegionalMedical Center, an affiliate of SolarisHealth System, will discontinue acutecare services at its facility located atPark Avenue and Randolph Road,Plainfield, New Jersey on Wednesday,August 13, 2008. Approval from theCommissioner of the New Jersey De-partment of Health and Senior Servicesof our Certificate of Need (CN) to closehas been received and pursuant to theconditions of the CN, this letter willprovide a 15-day notification of ourintent to close.

We will immediately implement anoperational plan to achieve an orderlyclosure of acute care services. As a part

of that planning process, we will ceaseto accept direct admissions to the hos-pital. In 48 hours, we will place theEmergency Room on full divert status.These steps are being taken to ensurewe can provide a safe discharge for allcurrent inpatients by August 13, 2008[final closing date]. During the transi-tion period, we will continue to operatea full-service Emergency Department.

We are deeply saddened by the clo-sure of Muhlenberg but we remain com-mitted to the provision of care to theresidents of Plainfield. We thank youfor the support you have provided dur-ing this process and your willingness toassist in the continuance of healthcareservices for the residents of thePlainfield community.

If you have any questions or con-cerns, please contact me directly at(908) 668-2197.

Sincerely,Nancy Fiamingo

Senior Vice President and ChiefOperating Officer

Muhlenberg Regional MedicalCenter.


Freeholders Visit Westfieldincrease from last year.

Mr. Mirabella acknowledged thatbalancing the county budget has beena “challenge.” He also said countyincreases over the last few years are“not where we want them to be.”

However, he said, “We’ve workedhard as a budget committee” andthanked First Ward CouncilmanFrank Arena for attending freeholderbudget meetings and attempting tounderstand the process.

Mr. Mirabella said, “We strugglewith the same things – mandatedcosts, salaries, insurance costs, util-ity costs.”

Later in the conference, councilmembers had an opportunity to querythe freeholders.

Mr. Arena took the opportunity toquestion the financing for The Acad-emy of Performing Arts, which willbe located in Scotch Plains at theUnion County Vocational-TechnicalSchools (Vo-Tech).

The $20 million venture willeventually accommodate 200students. The money will mostly beused to build a new outdooramphitheater, sound studios,dressing rooms and a stage.Construction should be complete byfall 2009.

Mr. Arena said, “We’re alltightening our belt…It sounds good,and I know some of the value that’sthere, but it’s a very expensiveproposition. Governor Corzinebasically said, ‘financially, we’rehaving a heartattack. Get the paddlesout.’ Is the $20 million investmentworth the value?”

Mr. Estrada, while acknowledgingthe expense, responded by sayingthat “investment in education andour children is critical.”

Mr. Mirabella deemed the $20million figure “a large capitalinvestment” but said he is “proud” ofthe vocational schools in UnionCounty, calling them one of the“premiere” county vocational centersin the state.

Fourth Ward Councilman JimFoerst asked the freeholderrepresentatives if they would bewilling to accept a similar pay scaleto that of a Westfield councilman.

According to a Union Countyemployment list, while freeholdersearn salaries of $29,500, Mr.Mirabella makes $30,500, and Mr.Estrada earns $31,500.

“We, as Westfield council peopleand the mayor, are elected but areessentially volunteers and serve for$1 a year. So, would the freeholdersconsider a similar budgetaryproposal?” Mr. Foerst asked.

“No,” Mr. Mirabella repliedimmediately, causing laughter tospread throughout the room.

“When people ask me what afreeholder does, I say I do what a[municipal] councilman does but alittle bit larger scale, budget, areaand constituency. It’s a lot ofresponsibility, too. We’re not goingin that direction, but that’s a nicequestion,” he added.

In other business, First WardCouncilman Sal Caruana addressedWestfield’s budgetary picture. As a“necessary measure in an extremelydifficult budgetary year,” Westfieldwill have no capital budget in 2008.

The proposed capital budget of $4million had included $2.5 million infunds for the renovation of MemorialField. Plans for Memorial Fieldincluded a complete redesign of thesoftball fields to allow forsimultaneous play, changes in theparking lot design and moving thetennis courts. The budget had alsoincluded $1.3 million in public worksimprovements to fund roadimprovements.

Mr. Caruana said while the financecommittee “loves” the MunicipalField project, “as Councilman Arenawas saying to the freeholders, youcan’t do every project you love.” Hesaid opportunities for private supportor partnerships would have to beconsidered for the project to come tofruition. “At $2.5 million, it’snowhere close.”

Mr. Caruana did say that capitalimprovements will occur in 2008,but they will be completed withmoney appropriated in 2007.

The town will set aside $75,000for quiet zone work on RahwayAvenue and $70,000 to fund its shareof a state aid project for WestfieldAvenue.

“Our capital budget is funded bylong-term debt,” Mr. Caruana said.“With a $4 million capital budget,we would be adding to our debtservice by about 25 percent.” Thetown has $15 million in unfundeddebt.

“At this point, we need to be a lotmore strategic in planning our capitalimprovements,” he added. “In 2008,we are taking a break.”

Mr. Foerst, as a member of thepublic works committee, said he was“disappointed” with the newsbecause constituents want roadspaved. However, he said, “I realizethere’s not much we can do.”

JoAnn Neylan, who chairs thepublic works committee, said this“tough love” was needed. She said“this is the right decision and is inthe best interest of all of us.”

Mr. Caruana said declining rev-enues over the first half of 2008 alsocontributed to the decision. Con-struction fees are down 40 percentfrom last year. Parking revenue isdown 15 percent, which is “furtherthan we would have projected, rep-resenting a slowdown in consumerspending and driving.”

In addition, there is a decline ininterest. The town will earn $300,000in interest income this year. Lastyear, the town made $800,000.

Starting Monday, August 25, thefinance committee will meet everyMonday for nine months. They willwork to create a debt-managementplan, while meeting with all depart-ment heads to discuss possible em-ployee reductions and hear propos-als for “revenue enhancement.”

With about 15 volunteers, some ofwhom also volunteer with the fire de-partment, members are expected to beon duty 12 hours every week, withshifts running from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Ms. Moore believes that the primaryreason for volunteer shortages is the“class you have to take for five months.”Although the class is paid for by thetown, she said that the “schooling justsounds worse than it is.”

President of the Scotch Plains Res-cue Squad, Dan Sullivan, believes thatword of mouth is the best way to recruitnew volunteers.

The Scotch Plains Squad, comprisedof 62 members, has had difficultiesrecruiting individuals to cover the day-time shifts from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Al-though Mountainside has a paid ser-vice during the work week, Mr. Sullivansaid that a paid service is “somethingwe don’t want to consider.”

Sharpe James Sentenced;27 Months Stirs Debate

NEWARK – U.S. District JudgeWilliam Martini sentenced formerState Senator and former NewarkMayor Sharpe James to 27 months inprison on Tuesday. James was alsofined $100,000, nj.com reported.

Co-conspirator Tamika Riley wassentenced to 15 months in jail.

After being sentenced, they werereleased. They are expected to reportto prison on September 15.

In a highly publicized trial, a juryconvicted James and Riley of fraudand conspiracy last summer. It wasreported that Riley, 39, and James,72, were romantically involved.

The conviction was a joint pros-ecution effort by U.S. Attorney Chris-topher Christie, Attorney GeneralAnne Milgram and the FBI.

The prosecution of James, initiatedtwo years ago, brought an end to thecareer of the Democratic Party powerbroker, whose influence was far reach-

ing in the state. James, in public of-fice for 20 years, has accumulatedmillions of dollars in the bank, ayacht, Rolls Royce and a number ofproperties, according to publishedreports.

The light sentence given to Jamesand Riley by the judge stirred contro-versy. Mr. Christie said his office willappeal the sentence, contending it wasunreasonable under federal sentenc-ing guidelines. Judge Martini said thesentencing was in line with that givento other corrupt, convicted politiciansin the state, according to NJ.com.

James’ and Riley’s crime involvedtheir conspiracy in the fraudulent saleof publicly-owned city property ofwhich hundreds of thousands of dol-lars in profits were garnered.

About his light sentencing, thejudge further added that he failed tosee who was the victim in this crime,NJ.com reported.


Mountainside Fire Dept.Scotch Plains is a little more lenient

with its required hours and membersusually volunteer about four to fivehours every week.

In the meantime, Scotch Plains hasmaintained a good relationship with itsneighboring town, Fanwood, to ensurethat the daytime calls are answered.

“We have a unique situation, be-cause Scotch Plains surroundsFanwood, and there is a very goodrelationship between the two squads,”Mr. Sullivan said.

For Mr. Sullivan, being part of thesquad is to “do something good forpeople. You will never get rich doingEMS…It is an appreciation for whatwe do and how we do it.”

For Mountainside Fire Departmentvolunteer of 31 years, Dean Paskow,the bottom line is simple.

“If you’re interested, you find thetime to do it.”

SP Farmers’ Market SetsBlood Drive Gift CertificateSCOTCH PLAINS – On Saturday,

August 2, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., theScotch Plains Farmers’ Market willfeature a blood drive. Donors willreceive a $20 gift certificate towardspurchases at the market. The marketis located at the Municipal Buildingparking lot at 430 Park Avenue inScotch Plains.

The Scotch Plains Business andProfessional Association (SPBPA) issponsoring the blood drive in con-junction with The Blood Center ofNew Jersey.

As part of the SPBPA communityoutreach effort, this drive is beingheld to meet the urgency of thecommunity’s increasing need forblood. One donation can save up tothree lives.

Donors are first asked medical his-tory questions and given a mini-healthcheck, including pulse, blood pres-sure and iron level. The actual dona-tion of blood takes five to seven min-utes, and then the donor is given asnack and juice. The entire processgenerally takes under one hour. Do-

nors will receive a free cholesterolscreening.

“This event helps bring friends andneighbors together and provides anopportunity for an act of kindness,”said Jeff Stein, Farmers’ MarketplaceManager.

Donors must be 17 years of age,weigh at least 120 pounds, and be ingeneral good health. There is no up-per age limit for donors, providedthey meet health requirements Do-nors should bring a signed or pictureform of identification. People with afever or sore throat should wait untilthey are feeling better before donat-ing, and there is a 24-hour deferral forteeth cleanings and fillings.

For those who have recently trav-eled outside of the United States, callthe blood center at (973) 676-4700,ext. 132, for eligibility criteria.

Interested donors are encouragedto pre-register for the event atbloodnjorg. For more information,call Mr. Stein at (908) 322-6774 orthe Blood Center at (800) 652-5663,extension 140.

County GOP Calls for CohenCampaign Funds to be Frozen

COUNTY — In response to formerAssemblyman Neil Cohen’s resigna-tion following allegations that por-nography involving children was foundon his legislative office computer,Union County Republican ChairmanPhil Morin issued the following state-ment:

“As the investigation of child por-nography allegations apparently con-tinues against former AssemblymanNeil Cohen and election laws mandatethat a special election be held thisNovember as a result of the legislativevacancy, the Union County Republi-cans are calling for both his individualand joint legislative campaign accountswith Assemblyman Cryan to be frozenuntil the investigation is complete.

“No campaign funds should be usedfor Mr. Cohen’s personal legal de-fense or doled out as campaign contri-

butions in the interim.“If the allegations are true, we call

upon Mr. Cohen to donate all funds inhis individual and joint campaign ac-counts to the National Center for Miss-ing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)to help in the fight against child por-nography and to assist the only truevictims of such a heinous crime.

“According to their website, finan-cial donations to the NCMEC ‘helpadvance their mission to prevent childabduction and sexual exploitation’ and‘assist victims of abduction and sexualexploitation, their families and the pro-fessionals who serve them.’

“According to the release: ElectionLaw Enforcement Commission advi-sory opinion AO-01-2008 limits theuse of campaign funds for criminallegal defense. Charitable donationsare specifically authorized.”


Vendor Leaves Market

SIXTY CENTS(908) [email protected] 49TH YEAR – ISSUE NO. 31-2008 Published Every Thursday Since 1959

www.timesnj.comUSPS 485200

Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N.J.Thursday, July 31, 2008

PAGE INDEXRegional ........ 2-3Editorial ........ 4-5Community ... 6-7, 14

Obituary ........ 6Education ...... 15Sports ............ 9-12

Real Estate .... 9-13Classifieds .... 13A&E .............. 15-16

Martin Sweeney for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood TimesROAD TRIP…Congressional candidate and Asw. Linda Stender (D, LD-22),center, is joined by Scotch Plains (D) candidates Theresa Mullen for council, left,and Kevin Glover for mayor at Scotchwood Florist on Monday, July 28. Asw.Stender began a four-day trip through New Jersey’s 7th Congressional Districtto reach voters with her campaign’s goals.

Fanwood Board to Defend LawsuitBy SP Developer Paul Difrancesco

By DEBORAH MADISONSpecially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

FANWOOD — Scotch Plains De-veloper Paul DiFrancesco has filed alawsuit with the state Superior Court inElizabeth against the Fanwood Plan-ning and Zoning Board of Adjustmentfor denying a site plan application,which he filed in January.

The application proposed to con-struct a house fronting onto the dead-end street of St. John’s Place, on asubdivided lot, behind an existing homethat fronted onto Woodland Avenue.After hearing hours of testimony inJanuary and again in April from variousexperts, board members cited fire safetyconcerns and lack of adequate access astheir chief reason for unanimously re-jecting the application.

The board voted to adopt a resolutionauthorizing Planning Board AttorneyRobert Renaud to “vigorously defend”the lawsuit at their regular monthlymeeting held on July 23. Mr. Renaudtold the board that, “The lawsuit wasdefensible. The board’s actions werewithin reason and within the law.”

Subsequent to that application, theboard voted to approve an amendmentto an ordinance clarifying that the endof a dead-end street should not be con-sidered frontage for a lot.

Mr. DiFrancesco told The ScotchPlains-Fanwood Times that he couldnot comment on the lawsuit at this timeunder the advisement of his attorney.

Gary Maher, owner of Creative Habi-

tats, a tile and countertop business,located at 74 South Avenue and ownerof the adjacent, residential lot located at28 Stagaard Place, withdrew his vari-ance application requesting permissionto use the Stagaard Place lot for indus-trial storage of his materials and inven-tory.

Under recommendations from theplanning board, Mr. Maher will returnin October with a combined site planand variance application, requesting tosubdivide the Stagaard Place lot. Thiswould allow the portion he proposes touse to be rezoned for light industrialuse (LI zone). The board told Mr.Maher’s attorney, Richard Kaplan, thatthey preferred to have a portion of thelot rezoned to LI, rather than permitusage of a residential lot for industrialstorage.

At Wednesday night’s meeting, LaGrande Avenue resident, John Garozzo,who lives adjacent to Stagaard Place,told The Times that there was currentlya cloud of fiber-glass dust emanatingfrom the tile building, which was notbeing properly contained. He alsovoiced concerns that the value of hisproperty and the properties of his neigh-bors would be diminished if the boardpermitted the subdivision and rezon-ing.

An LI zone would permit a numberof uses, including garages, auto repairshops, warehouses, processing andpackaging plants, appliance repair storesand numerous, other types of commer-cial and retail buildings. The lots arecurrently occupied by single-familyhouses.

Terrill Middle School to UseTrailers as Classrooms in Fall

By KATIE ROGERSSpecially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

SCOTCH PLAINS – In the wake ofincreased enrollment at Terrill MiddleSchool the Scotch Plains-FanwoodSchool District has brought in fourmodular trailers to serve as classroomsfor the 2008-2009 school year.

The idea of holding classes in trailerswas first considered this past schoolyear, and then approved in June. Theestimated cost, including renovationsof the modules, is estimated at $50,000.

“We are using our classrooms at ev-ery period of the day,” AnthonyDelSordi, business administrator forthe district, said. “The school isn’t over-crowded; the building is over-utilized.”

With the use of the trailers, teacherswill now have free periods in theirclassrooms, he said.

Although construction and leasingother space were both considered, Mr.

DelSordi said the trailers were thecheapest alternative solution to the prob-lem at hand.

Mr. DelSordi said an increased enroll-ment “bubble” occurred when this groupof students was in kindergarten, and the“bubble” has now come to Terrill.

Mr. DelSordi said there is potentialfor this problem to persist as thesestudents graduate on to high school.The board of education is looking tosolve this problem before it starts.

“Right now, we are looking at op-tions in the high school to house thesestudents,” he said. “That is the nextphase. We may have to reorganize orcut larger classrooms in half.”

As of right now, Mr. DelSordi saidthe board has the support of TerrillMiddle School’s parents.

“There are currently no complaints,”he said, “but they want to see how wewill handle enrollment in the future.”

Beth Budnick for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood TimesALL EARS… Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr (left) and Councilman DavidValian (right) listen in as Fanwood Chief Financial Officer Fred Tompkins, front,explains the revisions to Fanwood’s 2009 budget at the borough council meetingMonday night.

Asm. Neil Cohen Resigns AmidChild Pornography InvestigationBy MICHAEL J. POLLACK


AREA – After allegations that por-nographic images of children werefound on his legislative office com-puter, Democratic Assemblyman NeilCohen (LD-20, Union) resigned onMonday.

Senator Raymond Lesniak andAssemblyman Joseph Cryan, whoshare the Union office with Mr. Cohen,were told of the pornographic mate-rial, and they informed the Office ofLegislative Services.

Assemblyman Cryan and SenatorLesniak released a joint statementregarding the claims.

“We have been in constant touch

with the appropriate authoritiesthroughout this situation and willcontinue to follow the Office of Leg-islative Services guidelines and coun-sel in this matter,” they said.

“While it was our proactive stepsthat led the investigation to this point,we are appalled at what has tran-spired. Both of us have known NeilCohen for more than two decades.We know him as a compassionateindividual, but if the allegations provetrue, clearly, there was a side to himneither of us knew.

“We have been instructed to notmake any further comments regard-ing this very serious matter.”

Assemblyman Jon Bramnick (LD-

21, Westfield) considered Mr. Cohena “friend” and someone across theaisle with whom he could work effec-tively, he told The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times. The two have co-sponsored legislation together, andthe Westfield assemblyman said thenews “haunts” him.

“Normally, I’m not shocked bythings,” Mr. Bramnick said. “Thisone shocked me. If these allegationsare true, and they are allegations atthis point, it’s really sad. If it’s true, Ihope he gets help. If it’s not true, Ican’t wait till he gets back.”

Mr. Bramnick said, “I feel like Ilost a friend. This is sad stuff, and Iwish him well.”

Senator Nicholas Scutari (LD-22,Linden) said the news did not “shock”him.

“I’m not shocked about anythinganymore,” Mr. Scutari told The Times.“We had a governor (JamesMcGreevey) resign after he admittedhe was gay. We had a governor (EliotSpitzer) who prosecuted prostitutionand engaged [in prostitution]. Youjust see more and more wacky stuff.”

Senator Scutari has known Mr.Cohen professionally since his timeas a Union County freeholder. Thoughhe said he does not know Mr. Cohenpersonally, Senator Scutari said ofMr. Cohen, “He’s an excellent legis-lator, well regarded and a passionateadvocate.”

“Only because of the individualinvolved do I find it shocking,” headded. “It’s bizarre stuff. We’ll justwait and see. You try not to passjudgment.”

In a statement issued by his office,Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr.(LD-21, Westfield) called the allega-tions of Mr. Cohen “horrific,” andsaid he is “confident Attorney Gen-eral Anne Milgram will give thismatter the full attention of her of-fice.”

Union County Democratic Com-mittee Chairwoman CharlotteDeFilippo said she is “deeply sad-dened” by this turn of events.

“This is not the Neil Cohen I know,”Ms. DeFilippo told The Times. “I’venever seen anything to indicate thissort of behavior.”

Governor Jon Corzine called theallegations “deeply disturbing,” in astatement issued by his office.

Governor Corzine said, “All of uswho have worked with him are shockedby the reports. Child pornography re-flects a horrible debasement of chil-dren that is totally intolerable. Creat-ing, distributing and using child por-nography should be pursued vigorously

FW Council Unveils BudgetWith 5.6 Percent Tax Hike

By BETH BUDNICKSpecially Written for the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

FANWOOD – The Fanwood Bor-ough Council introduced an amendedbudget, Monday night, which callsfor a 5.6 percent hike in municipaltaxes over the 2007 year.

The revisions were presented as anamendment to the original budget forthe council to vote on. The provisionspassed, with all council membersvoting in favor of the changes, withthe exception Councilman TonyParenti. He cast his vote against theamendment.

The amendments presented evi-denced the “tremendous amount ofwork” on the budget since February,according to Mayor Colleen Mahr.The budget in February called for a28 percent tax increase over the 2007-2008 budget, a number Mayor Mahrcalled “completely unacceptable, butthat was our reality.” Total revenue tobe raised by taxes would be reducedfrom $5.9 billion to $5.3 billion.

Regarding current taxes, the mayorsaid residents would see a 10 percentdrop in their taxes from the thirdquarter to the fourth quarter. The thirdquarter taxes were figured using thebudget figures from February. How-ever, Mayor Mahr also said tax billsfrom last year to this year would seea 5.6 percent increase overall.

The borough arrived at the budgetafter figuring in the extraordinary aidand looking into funds it could, orcould be willing, to cut. Mayor Mahrsaid cuts had to be made from currentservices, because “current spendingis relatively flat,” increasing one-halfof one percent from the previous year.

One of the main areas requiringattention is the amount of extraordi-nary aid received by the borough,which, according to the mayor, is“being eaten at” every year and con-tinues to decrease. “It will get worseevery year,” she said.

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Largest Vendor Leaves WFMarket; SP Flourishing

By PAUL PEYTON and LAURAMORTKOWITZ


WESTFIELD — Area producebuyers may have noticed a differencethis year when comparing apples toapples – or in this case, Westfield toScotch Plains.

The Westfield Farmers Marketopened July 5 with less produce afterthe largest vendor - Hackettstown-based Donaldson Farms - was absentfrom the marketplace.

When reached for comment on Fri-day, Gary Donaldson of DonaldsonFarms, said a dispute started with aparking problem last year when theWestfield Area Chamber of Com-merce (WACC), which runs the mar-ket, started a flea market during theFarmers Market hours and distrib-uted 50 parking spaces at the WestfieldTrain Station to those vendors. Hesaid customers complained to ven-dors, who then took the complaints tothe Chamber.

He said Chamber Executive Direc-tor Naomi McElynn “ignored” thecomplaints, so one of his employees,an eight-year employee of DonaldsonFarms, went “over her (McElynn’s)head.”

“(The) Chamber is telling peoplewe had violations,” Mr. Donaldsonsaid, but added there was no record ofviolations. “This is a personal con-flict.”

Ms. McElynn said Mr. Donaldson’saccusations are inaccurate. She saidthe farmer’s employee was asked toleave because the employee removedsafety barricades in violation of Farm-ers Market rules. The barricades wereinstalled last year following an acci-dent at a Farmers Market in anotherstate.

“We invited Donaldson back. Theytold us they were coming,” she said.

She said she spoke to Mr.Donaldson’s brother about followingthe rules and the importance of civil-ity at the markets.

Ms. McElynn said the employeewas upset with the new parking ar-rangements and barricades, thinkingthis took foot traffic away from thefarmers.

“I went to speak with her (about notmoving the barricades), but she refusedto speak with me,” Ms. McElynn said.

Ms. McElynn said the market man-agers, all WACC volunteers, had toconfront the Donaldson Farms’ em-ployee each time she moved the bar-ricades.

“We could not have this with ourmarket managers,” Ms. McElynn said.

She said the WACC had a “signedcontract” and a $100 check fromDonaldson Farms agreeing to partici-pate and to contract stipulations,which included banning the em-ployee. The letter was sent toDonaldson Farms in April.

“There were other incidents,” Ms.McElynn said, although she did notprovide further details.

Ms. McElynn said a new farmer isbeing added to replace DonaldsonFarms.

Right now, Westfield has nine ven-dors, two of which sell produce andvegetables. Donaldson had the larg-est table. Ms. McElynn said, “Foottraffic is consistent” over last year.

Meanwhile, the Farmers Market inScotch Plains has three produce ven-dors of the eight, and according toJeffrey Stein, promotional/marketingconsultant for the Business and Pro-fessional Association, “the market has

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SP Cops to Get3.5 Percent Pay Hike

By FRED T. ROSSISpecially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

SCOTCH PLAINS — The town-ship council will vote next month ona new salary ordinance covering po-lice department personnel underwhich the average salary increasenext year will be about 3.52 percent.The department’s one-year contractwill succeed a three-year agreementthat expires at the end of December.

Three salary schedules are in-cluded in the ordinance and affectthree classes of personnel: thosehired prior to 1995, those hired sincethe start of 2006, and those hiredbetween those two dates. Newer pa-trolmen will need to move throughadditional salary steps in order toreach the maximum salary level of$89,164; instead of a four-year pro-cess, newer hires will move througha seven-year process to reach thatsalary maximum.

Township Manager Thomas Atkinstold The Scotch Plains-FanwoodTimes the additional salary steps“helps the town on costs” because ittakes officers longer to reach themaximum salary level.

Lieutenant Brian Donnelly toldThe Times that the local Policemen’s

Michael J. Pollack for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood TimesCONNECTED TO WESTFIELD...Union County Freeholder Chairman Angel Estrada and Finance Chairman Al Mirabella,a Fanwood resident, visited the Westfield council, Tuesday evening, as they attempted to foster the relationship between thetwo entities. Council members questioned the county representatives on issues of spending and the new Performing ArtsCenter in Scotch Plains. Pictured, from left to right, are Second Ward Vicki Kimmins, Mr. Mirabella, Mr. Estrada, TownClerk Claire Gray, Mayor Andy Skibitsky and First Ward Councilman Frank Arena.

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Muhlenberg Formally ClosesPlainfield Emergency RoomPLAINFIELD – On Wednesday at 8

a.m., Muhlenberg’s emergency roomwent on “full divert” status, meaningrescue squads must divert to other hos-pitals. On Tuesday, Muhlenberg Medi-cal Center sent a letter to local rescuesquads formally closing the emergencyroom in Plainfield. The letter reads:

“Dear Emergency Medical Techni-cian:

This letter will serve to formallyadvise you that Muhlenberg RegionalMedical Center, an affiliate of SolarisHealth System, will discontinue acutecare services at its facility located atPark Avenue and Randolph Road,Plainfield, New Jersey on Wednesday,August 13, 2008. Approval from theCommissioner of the New Jersey De-partment of Health and Senior Servicesof our Certificate of Need (CN) to closehas been received and pursuant to theconditions of the CN, this letter willprovide a 15-day notification of ourintent to close.

We will immediately implement anoperational plan to achieve an orderlyclosure of acute care services. As a part

of that planning process, we will ceaseto accept direct admissions to the hos-pital. In 48 hours, we will place theEmergency Room on full divert status.These steps are being taken to ensurewe can provide a safe discharge for allcurrent inpatients by August 13, 2008[final closing date]. During the transi-tion period, we will continue to operatea full-service Emergency Department.

We are deeply saddened by the clo-sure of Muhlenberg but we remain com-mitted to the provision of care to theresidents of Plainfield. We thank youfor the support you have provided dur-ing this process and your willingness toassist in the continuance of healthcareservices for the residents of thePlainfield community.

If you have any questions or con-cerns, please contact me directly at(908) 668-2197.

Sincerely,Nancy Fiamingo

Senior Vice President and ChiefOperating Officer

Muhlenberg Regional MedicalCenter.

Thursday, July 31, 2008 The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

POLICE BLOTTER

In 2005, the board denied an applica-tion to construct 15 townhouses on twoStagaard Place lots, including 28Stagaard Place. Several residents, wholived adjacent to the site, hired attor-neys to defend their opposition to thetownhouse development and requestedthe rezoning of this site. Residents wereopposed to the development because,they claimed, it would devalue theirhomes and create traffic and water run-off problems in their neighborhood.

After the denial of that application,the board commissioned their in-houseengineering consultant, T & M Associ-ates, to conduct an extensive study ofthe neighborhood. Based on that study,the board voted to rezone the StagaardPlace lots from light industrial to resi-dential in 2005.

An application submitted by FarleyAvenue resident Art Parchman for adriveway widening was denied by theplanning board. The current ordinancelimits driveway widths to 10 feet be-tween the property line and the street,for a single-car driveway. Mr.Parchman’s application requested avariance for five additional feet at thecurb and an 18-foot width up to hisgarage. The board cited that the otherdriveways in his neighborhood werewithin the ordinance limits. They alsotold Mr. Parchman that he did not showan adequate hardship to qualify for avariance.

The board approved a variance ap-plication for an oversized retaining wallsurrounding a rear-yard deck for appli-cant Thomas Virga at 209 PatersonRoad. The application was submittedafter construction was already com-pleted. Mr. Virga told the board that hewas not aware that he needed varianceapproval or a permit for the oversizedretaining wall or for the pre-existingdriveway improvements until afterBorough Engineer Joseph Pryor dis-covered these improvements were madewithout the proper permits and vari-ances.

The board approved the retaining-wall variance with the condition that


Developer Files LawsuitAgainst FW Planning Board

Mr. Virga would reduce his drivewaywidth from the existing 20 feet to com-ply with the ordinance of 10 feet.

The ordinance for retaining wallslimits their height to four feet Mr. Virgaexplained to the board he had to con-struct a wall of diminishing heightaround his deck, which was 5 feet inheight at some points in order to con-tain a hazardous drop-off.

Other conditions of approval includedimprovements to the storm-water drain-age system required by Mr. Pryor. Mr.Pryor explained to the board that Mr.Virga’s property required a complexsystem of overflow piping and swells toroute runoff to the rear of his yard.

Russell Road homeowner, NealPierce, whose property is adjacent toMr. Virga’s, voiced his concerns to theboard that Mr. Virga had re-graded hisproperty, without the proper permits,causing Mr. Pierce’s French drain andsump pump to be overly-taxed by run-off from Mr. Virga’s property. Mr. Pryorrecommended a re-graded swell andreconfiguration of piping to correct therunoff problems.

Mr. Pierce told the board he has beencomplaining of this overflow problemto the borough since September 2006without an adequate solution. He alsovoiced his “dismay” that Mr. Virga wasapproved, without consequences, forconstructing these improvements with-out first obtaining the proper permits orvariance approvals.

Board Chairman Gregory Cummingsadmonished Mr. Virga, stating, “I amdeeply disturbed that a contractor wouldmake these changes without goingthrough the proper approvals.” Mr.Cummings explained to Mr. Pierce thatthe board was limited in what conse-quences they could impose on Mr. Virgafor this over-site.

The next agenda meeting of the boardwill be held on Monday, September 15and the next regular meeting will beheld on Wednesday, September 24. Bothmeetings will be at 7:30 p.m. in theborough council chambers. The boardwill not meet in August.

by law enforcement wherever it isfound.”

Mr. Cohen has represented the 20thDistrict, which includes Elizabeth,Kenilworth, Roselle and Union, since1994, and also served from 1990 to1991. He served on the Union CountyBoard of Chosen Freeholders from1988 to 1990.

Mr. Cohen also resigned as generalcounsel to the Union County UtilitiesAuthority, a $109,000 post, and asUnion County Planning Board attor-ney, a $27,000 salary.

According to Susan Evans, directorof communications at the New JerseyDepartment of State, under state guide-lines the Union County DemocraticCommittee has 35 days from the timethe department receives notice of resig-nation to fill the vacancy with an in-terim successor. Ms. Evans told TheTimes, Tuesday, that the departmenthas yet to receive Mr. Cohen’s resigna-tion.

A special election will be held inNovember to fill the remaining year onMr. Cohen’s term. Both parties musthave their candidate’s names certified48 days before the general election.The Democrats can choose to placesomeone other than the interim succes-sor on the November ballot.

Phil Morin, Union County Republi-can Committee chairman, told The Timesthat if the allegations against Mr. Cohenare true, “He should be prosecuted to thefullest extent of the law. Never forget thereal victims in child pornography are thechildren themselves who are forced toparticipate in these heinous [acts].”

Mr. Morin said he has reached out toall four municipal chairs within thedistrict and will have candidates shortly.He said the GOP plans to hold a con-vention after potential candidates areidentified.

He said the GOP has “some prettynatural candidates,” including C. LouisBassano, a former state senator fromthe district; Linda Gagliano, a formerUnion school board member and 2007


Neil Cohen Resignationstate senate candidate; Kathi Fiamingo,the mayor of Kenilworth, and Roselle’sEsther Guzman-Malcolm, a former can-didate for sheriff.

He said no matter whom the Demo-crats select to fill the term, “they willjust give voters more of the same.”

On the Democratic side, Mr. Morincalled first-term Roselle CouncilwomanCecelia Dallas-Ricks the “presumptivefrontrunner” in a field that also includescurrent Freeholder Chairman AngelEstrada and Patricia Perkins-Auguste,at-large councilman in Elizabeth.

Mr. Morin said he heard “rumblings”that Mr. Estrada would be interested.

Mr. Estrada, an Elizabeth residentand manager at the Elizabeth MotorVehicle Commission, confirmed withThe Times on Tuesday that he would beinterested in the Assembly seat.

Mr. Estrada, who has lived in the20th district for more than 40 years,said he “knows the ins and outs” of thearea, as well as the “makeup” of thecommunity.

“I know what the job requires,” hesaid.

The freeholder added, “On the en-vironment, evening the playing fieldwith regards to social services andbringing the community together, myrecord is clear.”

With new dual-office-holding laws inplace, Mr. Estrada would have to resignfrom the freeholder board if selected. Hisseat expires at the end of the year.

In 2006, Mr. Morin called for aninvestigation into Mr. Estrada’s actionsafter then-Attorney General ZulimaFarber called Mr. Estrada to straightenout driver’s license and car registrationissues associated with Ms. Farber’sboyfriend, Hamlet Goore.

Mr. Morin said he is “not quite sure”what the results of the investigationwere. “Regardless, it leaves some clearquestions as to his judgment.”

While admitting that the situation isnot clear, he said a “chain reaction”would go off if Mr. Estrada were tappedfor the position.

WestfieldWednesday, July 23, Hector Menjivar-

Mejia, 35, of Plainfield was arrested on anoutstanding South Plainfield warrant andan outstanding Harding Township war-rant after a motor vehicle stop in the areaof Park Street and Central Avenue. Heposted bail and was released.

Wednesday, July 23, Michael C.Johnson, 32, of Westfield responded topolice headquarters where he was ar-rested for an outstanding Garwood war-rant. He posted bail and was released.

Wednesday, July 23, Salvatore Fazio,24 of Westfield responded to police head-quarters where he was arrested for anoutstanding Westfield warrant. He postedbail and was released.

Friday, July 25, Jobin Mathew, 18, ofWestfield was arrested and charged withpossession of marijuana in the area ofWells Street and Fairacres Avenue afterpolice received a call of a suspiciousvehicle. Mathew was released with a sum-mons pending and a court date.

Friday, July 25, Bishara Tyler, 32, ofScotch Plains was arrested on an out-standing New Brunswick warrant after amotor vehicle stop in the area of LambertsMill Road and Spruce Lane. Tyler postedbail and was released.

Saturday, July 26, a joint investigationwith Clark police resulted in the arrest ofthree individuals: Bryan Fowler, 20;Christopher Dean, 20, and Corey Perez,20, all Cranford residents.

Police said the arrests were pursuant toa burglary of a residence on ManchesterDrive. Each suspect was charged withburglary, theft, criminal mischief andpossession of burglary tools. Bail was setat $25,000 for Dean and Perez and $10,000for Fowler, police said, pending a supe-rior court date of August 1.

Sunday, July 27, Ikemefuna Okwuosa,21, of Union was arrested for an outstand-ing warrant following a motor vehiclestop at East Broad Street and Euclid Av-enue. He posted bail and was released.

Sunday, August 27, a resident of the900 block of Ripley Avenue reported thetheft of two laptop computers and anemerald ring. The total value of itemstaken was placed at $18,500.

MountainsideThursday, July 24, a resident of Bay-

berry Lane reported receiving several callsfrom a collection agency regarding a checkthat he supposedly cashed in the amountof $1,022. According to police, the frontof the check had an address in Elizabethwhere the victim never resided and thevictim stated that he never wrote or casheda check in that amount. The victim filedan affidavit stating the above and theincident is under investigation.

Thursday, July 24, a resident of Lark-spur Drive reported that as she was driv-ing on Route 22 she noticed a vehicle shedescribed as a dark red, older model com-pact four-door station wagon occupied byfive white males in their late teens travel-ing east. According to police, the victimstated that the vehicle attempted to paral-lel her car and when it was directly alongside hers, a passenger threw an object intothe open driver’s side window of hervehicle.

The object was determined to be aKentucky Fried Chicken soda cup full ofsoda, police said. The victim did not sus-tain any injuries, but police have broad-casted a SPEN alert to neighboring juris-dictions to stop and hold any vehiclematching the description noted in thisreport, authorities said.

Monday, July 28, Francisco G. Lebron,34, of Newark was arrested at the EssexCounty jail for an outstandingMountainside warrant.

Scotch PlainsWednesday, July 23, Michael T.

Sweeney, 38, of Scotch Plains was ar-rested for an outstanding warrant out ofPlainfield. According to police, he wasprocessed and released after postingbail.

Thursday, July 24, Thomas P. Creamer18, of Elmwood Park was arrested andcharged with possession of marijuana aftera field investigation. According to police,he was processed and released on a sum-mons.

Thursday, July 24, Charles H. Will-iams, 49, of Plainfield was arrested aftera motor vehicle stop for an outstandingwarrant out of Elizabeth. According topolice, he was processed and releasedafter posting bail.

Thursday, July 24, Michael J. Molina,24, of Elizabeth was arrested for an out-standing warrant out of Elizabeth. Ac-cording to police, he was processed andreleased after posting bail.

Friday, July 25, Ivano Pizzarno, 19, ofScotch Plains was arrested for criminalmischief and criminal trespassing after afield investigation. According to police,he was processed and released with asummons.

Sunday, July 27, Janine F. Lytle, 25, ofPlainfield was arrested after a motor ve-hicle stop for an outstanding warrant outof Middlesex. According to police, shewas processed and released after postingbail.

Sunday, July 27, Xiomilka Rodriguez,26, of Allentown, Pa. was arrested andcharged with driving a vehicle reportedstolen from Jersey City. According topolice, she was processed and releasedwith a summons.

improved since last year.”“I think some people have said

that our market has a better varietyof fresh vegetables and fruit,” hesaid, adding that when Westfieldmoved its Farmers Market from aweekday to Saturday, it might havedone more harm than good.

“If all of the local markets are onSaturday, then they start to take busi-ness away from each other,” Mr. Steinsaid.

“In the past, I know people en-joyed going to [to the WestfieldMarket] on a Wednesday, let’s say,and getting fresh produce and com-ing to our Market on a Saturday andgetting fresh produce again,” he said.“That way they always had freshproduce during the week.’

Mr. Stein added that this is the waythings are done in Europe. People cancook fresh food every day becausethey bought it fresh daily.

“We had the same situation here,”Mr. Stein said.

Recently, he noticed that morefamilies and younger families havebeen in attendance at the ScotchPlains Farmers Market. Thesechanges aren’t the only differences.

The Scotch Plains Farmers Mar-ket now has an organic baker, whichis new. He also said one the farmerssell organic produce grown fromanother New Jersey organic farmer.

According to the Global Marketfor Organic Food and Drink, organicfood sales have increased from $23billion in 2002 to $40 billion in 2006.

However, Westfield cannot jumponto the organic food bandwagon aseasily as Scotch Plains has. Ms.McElynn had sought to bring or-ganic produce to Westfield throughthe Purple Dragon co-op, but as amember of the New Jersey Councilof Farmers and Communities pro-duce sold at the market must begrown in New Jersey and at the farmowned by the farmer selling thegoods. She said an inspection re-


Farmers Marketvealed that Purple Dragon importsorganic fruits. She also said there area limited number of organic farmersin New Jersey and they produce asmall volume of crops.

The Chamber is looking intowhether it wants to stay a member ofthe council. For the October 3 Cham-ber board meeting, this topic is al-ready on the agenda. The Chamberwill look at both the benefits and therestrictions of staying a member ofthe council. Some of the items theChamber will look into are beingable to sell organic food and the feethat has to be paid to the council tostay a member.

Scotch Plains is not a member ofthe council. Elizabeth, Roselle Park,and Springfield are the only otherUnion County towns that have mar-kets that are part of the council.

According to the DowntownCranford Management Corporation,Cranford has not had a Farmers Mar-ket in about three years as they havetheir own farm in town, Dreyer’sFarm on Springfield Avenue.

Katherine Vowell contributed tothis story.


FW Council IntroducesAmended Municipal BudgetGiven this decreasing amount of

extraordinary aid, Fred Tompkins,chief financial officer, explainedchanges to the budget in order tolower the currently high tax num-bers. Revisions, for example, includea surplus fund of $20,000 generatedby parking funds, from $420,000 to$440,000. The new number is a moreaccurate account, said Mr. Tompkins,who explained the first number hadthe “parking fees and meters alljumbled together.”

The amendment also included theConsolidated Municipal Property TaxRelief Aid, a form of funding sepa-rate from extraordinary aid. Thesefunds valued at $121,376 in theamendment, versus $76,660 in Feb-ruary.

The borough also reduced itemsfor conventions or “any extras” forthe council, according to Mayor Mahr.

Mayor Mahr added that the reduc-tion did affect departmental budgets,personnel and salaries. She said thecouncil did “everything they could”to prevent this.

Also in the budget revisions wasadded revenue for a bulk waste pick-up program, which the council plansto begin in Fanwood. Passing theordinance on this issue was the topicof a later portion of the meeting.

Mayor Mahr said the council had“toyed with the idea” last year. Butthis year, she said, because of theexpenses, the council felt they had tooperate a bulky waste pickup. “Whenyou’re looking at personnel decisions,it behooves the council to look atother ways to lessen the cuts,” shesaid. The curbside pick-up program,she said, was one of those ways.

The revenue expected for theproject totals at $49,000, workingunder an estimation that half of thetown residents participate, said Mr.Tompkins. He said he “was trying tobe conservative with the numbers…otherwise we’re just digging our-selves another hole for next year.”The fee for pick-up will be $65, thesame as charged in Scotch Plains forthe town’s bulk curbside pick-up pro-

gram.Additionally, the council passed an

ordinance to increase off-streetmonthly permit parking fees for thetrain station lots, as another area togenerate revenue. Permit owners willnow pay an additional three dollars amonth for residents, and an extra fivedollars a month for nonresidents. Evenwith these changes, the council saidthat permit fees were still less thanthose in Westfield, Summit or Berke-ley Heights.

The meeting marked one of the finalsteps in a extensive string of meetings— “seventeen times, I’d guess,” saidBorough Clerk Eleanor McGovern —that began in February regarding theborough’s 2008-2009 budget.

To continue moving forward withthe changes, the council must nowapply for a cap waiver from the state.A cap waiver application is necessarywhen a municipality raises the taxlevy more than 4 percent. Fanwood isabout $300,000 over this mark, Mr.Tompkins said.

The council did not forsee any prob-lems in the hearing of the cap waiverapplication, which will be held onAugust 13.

“In our case, I can’t see them (thestate) overturning the cap waiver,”Mr. Tompkins said. “If they say no,they’d have to cut some of our sur-plus… we let them know we’re hold-ing down appropriations as much aswe can.”

A public hearing on the budget isscheduled for August 20. After thishearing, the council can “finally” passthe budget, Mayor Mahr said.

The process has “frustrated” thecouncil, said Mayor Mahr, because“the state keeps changing the playingrules on us,” regarding extraordinaryaid and cap waivers. “Their method-ology is of squeezing municipalities,and trying to make us shrink,” shesaid.

“Compared where we were sittingin January, I’m more satisfied. I’mnot going to say I’m pleased with [thebudget], but I’m more satisfied,”Mayor Mahr said.

Benevolent Association requestedonly a one-year contract extensionto succeed the expiring three-yearagreement because “with electionsand a new mayor and a new townshipmanager, we figured let’s get a one-year deal” that would allow time forsome of the new personnel “to firstget their feet wet” in their new posi-tions without immediately having toface a contract negotiation. He saidthe 2009 salary increases for thevarious job titles will be the same asthis year.

The council’s public hearing onthe ordinance will be Tuesday, Au-gust 12.


Cops Raise

Michael J. Pollack for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood TimesA FAIR SHAKE...Fourth Ward Westfield Councilman Tom Bigosinski, left,shakes hands with Freeholder Al Mirabella, a Fanwood resident. County repre-sentatives attended the meeting to hear concerns of the Westfield council andpromote the relationship between the county and municipality.

County GOP Calls for CohenCampaign Funds to be Frozen

COUNTY — In response to formerAssemblyman Neil Cohen’s resigna-tion following allegations that por-nography involving children was foundon his legislative office computer,Union County Republican ChairmanPhil Morin issued the following state-ment:

“As the investigation of child por-nography allegations apparently con-tinues against former AssemblymanNeil Cohen and election laws mandatethat a special election be held thisNovember as a result of the legislativevacancy, the Union County Republi-cans are calling for both his individualand joint legislative campaign accountswith Assemblyman Cryan to be frozenuntil the investigation is complete.

“No campaign funds should be usedfor Mr. Cohen’s personal legal de-fense or doled out as campaign contri-

butions in the interim.“If the allegations are true, we call

upon Mr. Cohen to donate all funds inhis individual and joint campaign ac-counts to the National Center for Miss-ing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)to help in the fight against child por-nography and to assist the only truevictims of such a heinous crime. Ac-cording to their website, financial do-nations to the NCMEC ‘help advancetheir mission to prevent child abduc-tion and sexual exploitation’ and ‘as-sist victims of abduction and sexualexploitation, their families and the pro-fessionals who serve them.”

According to the release: ElectionLaw Enforcement Commission advi-sory opinion AO-01-2008 limits theuse of campaign funds for criminallegal defense. Charitable donationsare specifically authorized.

Sharpe James Sentenced;27 Months Stirs Debate

SP Farmers Market SetsBlood Drive Gift CertificateSCOTCH PLAINS – On Saturday,

August 2, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., theScotch Plains Farmers Market will fea-ture a blood drive. Donors will receivea $20 gift certificate towards purchasesat the market. The market is located atthe Municipal Building parking lot at430 Park Avenue in Scotch Plains.

The Scotch Plains Business and Pro-fessional Association (SPBPA) is spon-soring the blood drive in conjunctionwith The Blood Center of New Jersey.

As part of the SPBPA communityoutreach effort, this drive is beingheld to meet the urgency of thecommunity’s increasing need forblood.

According to the Blood Center, NewJersey faces shortages of blood dona-tions and must import blood regularlyfrom other states. Donations are neededto meet the needs of New Jersey hospi-tals for the patients who require lifesaving transfusions.

Each unit of blood donated is brokendown into several components includ-ing platelets, plasma and red cells. Onedonation can save up to three lives.

For the donation process, donors arefirst asked medical history questionsand given a mini-health check, includ-ing pulse, blood pressure and iron level.The donation of blood takes five toseven minutes, and then the donor is

given a snack and juice. The entireprocess generally takes under one hour.Donors will receive a free cholesterolscreening.

“This event helps bring friends andneighbors together and provides anopportunity for an act of kindness,”said Jeff Stein, Farmers Marketplacemanager. “It also rewards donors witha healthy and engaging variety of pro-duce, baked goods, and gourmet stylefood products. We are looking forwardto making this an annual event,” hesaid.

Donors must be 17 years of age,weigh at least 120 pounds, and be ingeneral good health. There is no upperage limit for donors, provided theymeet health requirements. Donorsshould bring a signed or picture form ofidentification. People with a fever orsore throat should wait until they arefeeling better before donating, and thereis a 24-hour deferral for teeth cleaningsand fillings.

For those who have recently traveledoutside of the United States, call theblood center at (973) 676-4700, ext.132 for eligibility criteria.

Interested donors are encouraged topre-register for the event at bloodnjorg.For more information, call Mr. Stein at(908) 322-6774, or the Blood Center at(800) 652-5663, extension 140.

Court Upholds ConvictionIn 2003 Westfield Arrest

ELIZABETH – On July 28, appel-late judges Rudy Coleman and Tho-mas Lyons ruled against WarrenGuerrier on appeal from the SuperiorCourt of New Jersey, Law Division,Union County.

The defendant’s position was thatthe arresting officers in 2003 in Westfieldviolated his rights under the FourthAmendment to the Constitution, to befree from unreasonable searches andseizures.

Guerrier appealed an October 21,2005 judgment of conviction enteredfollowing the trial court’s acceptanceof his March 2, 2005 guilty plea to thirddegree conspiracy to commit the crimeof identity theft, and third degree pos-session of devices and materials to makefalse drivers’ licenses.

Guerrier had moved to suppress evi-dence seized from his car after a stopfor traffic violations in Westfield. Ac-cording to court papers, the court foundthat the police had the right to stop thevehicle and probable cause to conductthe subsequent search of the interior ofthe car because the smell of marijuana

emanated from the vehicle.The court found that the arresting

Westfield police officers had acted cor-rectly.

According to court documents, onSeptember 12, 2003, at approximately12:01 a.m., Officers James Stivale andKevin O’Keefe of the Westfield PoliceDepartment pulled over a Honda wagondriven by Guerrier. The reasons for thestop were that the officers observedthat the car had an unreadable expira-tion date on its Virginia license platetag and the car’s front side windowswere “unlawfully” tinted.

The documents state the officersapproached the vehicle and asked thedriver, Guerrier, to provide his driv-ing credentials. Guerrier could notproduce them. At that time, OfficerO’Keefe detected a strong odor ofmarijuana emanating from the ve-hicle.

Officer O’Keefe then instructedGuerrier and his passenger, co-de-fendant Alexander Young, to exit thevehicle. Both men were advised oftheir Miranda rights, authorities said.

NEWARK – U.S. District JudgeWilliam Martini sentenced formerState Senator and former NewarkMayor Sharpe James to 27 months inprison on Tuesday. James was alsofined $100,000, NJ.com reported.

Co-conspirator Tamika Riley wassentenced to 15 months in jail.

After being sentenced, they werereleased. They are expected to reportto prison on September 15.

In a highly publicized trial, a juryconvicted James and Riley of fraudand conspiracy last summer. Rileyand James were romantically in-volved. Riley is 39, and James, who ismarried, is 72.

The conviction was a joint pros-ecution effort by U.S. Attorney Chris-topher Christie, Attorney GeneralAnne Milgram and the FBI.

The prosecution of James, initiatedtwo years ago, brought an end to thecareer of the Democratic Party power

broker, whose influence was far reach-ing in the state. James, in public officefor 20 years, has accumulated millionsof dollars in the bank, a yacht, RollsRoyce and a number of properties,according to published reports.

The light sentence given to Jamesand Riley by the judge stirred contro-versy. Mr. Christie said his office willappeal the sentence, contending it wasunreasonable under federal sentenc-ing guidelines. Judge Martini said thesentencing was in line with that givento other corrupt, convicted politiciansin the state, according to NJ.com.

James and Riley’s crime involvedtheir conspiracy in the fraudulent saleof publicly owned city property ofwhich hundred’s of thousands of dol-lars in profits were garnered.

About his light sentencing, thejudge further added that he failed tosee who was the victim in this crime,NJ.com reported.


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County Residents Seek HelpOn Muhlenberg, Liberty Hall

By PAUL J. PEYTONSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

ELIZABETH — Members of thepublic asked the Union County Boardof Chosen Freeholders at lastThursday’s meeting to assist on anumber of issues ranging from theclosing of Muhlenberg Medical Cen-ter in Plainfield to Commerce Bank’seffort to purchase land from the Lib-erty Hall Museum in Union. In addi-tion, the verbal battle between a free-holder and a county resident resultedin the resident being thrown out of themeeting.

On the Muhlenberg Regional Cen-ter closing, Gail Jones of Plainfieldsaid the closing would impact a ser-vice area of more than 150,000 resi-dents and cause longer waits at otherhospitals including Trinitas in Eliza-beth, Overlook in Summit, JFK inEdison and Somerset Regional Medi-cal Center. She said 13 municipalitieshave passed resolutions opposing theclosing of Muhlenberg.

Ms. Jones questioned howMuhlenberg could remove equipmentand reduce services when the statehas not officially given a final deci-sion on the closing.

“Something needs to be done andyou are the freeholders,” she said.

Nancy Piwowar of Plainfield saidthe goal for the community is to pur-chase the hospital.

In response, Freeholder Rick Proc-tor, a health officer himself, said,“This a very, very important issuethat is facing us.”

He said the problem hospitals arehaving is the high rate of uninsuredpersons and the subsequent low reim-bursement rate by the state for chari-table care provided by hospitals.

He said Trinitas receives 78 centsfor every dollar it provides in chari-table care, Robert Wood UniversityHospital Rahway gets 28 cents on thedollar, Somerset receives 21 cents onthe dollar while JFK garners 43 centsfor each dollar it provides for unin-sured patients.

Mr. Proctor said, in his opinion,“Universal health care is the onlything that is going to save us,” addingthat more hospital closings are likely.

“We don’t take this lightly,” Free-holder Vice Chairman Al Mirabellasaid. “We hope for some sort of aresolution that will be good for us.”

On the issue of the Commerce Bankapplication at Morris and North Av-enues in Union, Elizabeth residentPaula Borenstein said at a recent NewJersey Historical Preservation meet-ing that Kean University personnelwere asked whether the County ofUnion supported changing the bound-aries removing the state historic des-ignation at the Morris/North parcelfor Liberty Hall at the location.

Kean University, which purchasedthe 120-acre property a year ago,seeks to sell the parcel to Commerce.A bank and a CVS pharmacy areplanned.

Ms. Borenstein, who attended theJune 18 Trenton meeting, said KeanUniversity officials said the countyfreeholders supported the project. Sheasked the freeholders if they havegone on record as supporting thechange in boundaries.

“We are on record as having wantedto purchase that property,” FreeholderSullivan responded. He said thecounty could not get into a “biddingwar with Commerce Bank” to pur-chase the parcel.

“If the Kean Foundation had agreed(to the county’s price) we would bethe owners of that property now,” Mr.Sullivan said.

County Manager George Devanneysaid he was “not aware of any com-munication” about the county sup-porting the Liberty Hall parcel sale.

“We believe it should be parkland,”he said. He said the county completedtwo appraisals but the county’s offerwas rejected. “We had offered themaximum the appraisal would allowfor.”

The state commission has delayedaction on the application.

Also during the public session, TinaRenna of Cranford, president of theUnion County Watchdog Association,once again got into a shouting matchwith Mr. Sullivan during the free-holder comments portion of the meet-ing.

During her remarks, she said a listof county employees reveals manyhave the same surname as somecounty freeholders. She specificallymentioned Mr. Sullivan, saying hisbrother, son and niece all are thecounty payroll. She also mentionedMr. Devanney’s wife, a former countyemployee, and said the countymanager’s uncle is State Senator RayLesniak (LD-20, Elizabeth).

Mr. Sullivan said his brother workedfor the county in the 1980s and hisson, a sheriff’s officer, paid his ownway through the county’s police acad-emy and was nearly killed three yearsago on the job.

He repeated earlier comments thatMs. Renna was hired by her husbandJoe, at the time a county employee, tosell advertising space for the UnionCounty Alliance’s newsletter.

When Ms. Renna stood up andwent to the microphone, Mr. Sullivantold her to “Sit down and listen tome.” He repeatedly said, “You tookthe money” in advertising commis-sions.

Ms. Renna said she “performed ajob on a project. You had no onecompetent on the project” to whichMr. Sullivan said her husband was incharge of the newsletter.

When told to leave the microphoneMs. Renna said, “I’m a citizen of theUnited States. Who are you?”

“You think the rules (when to speakat meetings) don’t apply to you,” Mr.Sullivan said.

Ms. Renna was escorted from themeeting by a police officer.

Freeholders OK Contract toCreate Messaging Service

By PAUL J. PEYTONSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader anf The Times

ELIZABETH — During the busi-ness portion of the meeting, the boardapproved a $291,000 contract lastThursday to a vendor to create acountywide emergency messagingservice that can contact residents.

Awarded to Cooper Wheelock ofLong Branch, the Union County FirstAlert program will enable county resi-dents who opt-in to receive messagesby phone, text message, BlackBerryand e-mail.

“The contract that we awarded toCooper Wheelock tonight is the firststep in an effort we hope to beginsoon,” Freeholder Angel Estrada said.“We want to create a public warningsystem that will greatly enhance emer-gency response.”

The county intends to create awebsite for residents to opt-in to theservice. A press conference will beheld this fall on the program.

The board also approved an agree-ment with NJ Transit to provide 11 busstops along the county’s Route 22 pe-destrian shuttle route. The shelters arebeing provided at no cost to the county.

Mr. Proctor said 6,000 persons usethe shuttle each month.

“It is just a major traffic safetyprogram along this route,” he said.

The board also approved the pur-chase of a software program to helpemergency personnel in respondingto disabled persons. The $29,000 con-tract was given to Delta Develop-mental Group of Mechanicsburg, Pa.

“This will enable us to register andidentify county residents with spe-cial needs (the disabled) so emer-gency workers know [what] theirneeds are in the event of an emer-gency,” Mr. Estrada said.

A resolution was passed support-ing Assembly Bill, A-2654, whichwould create a Gold Star Family li-cense plate for families of service-men and women who lost their liveswhile on active duty in the United

States armed forces. AssemblywomanLinda Stender (LD-22, Fanwood) isone of the sponsors of the bill.

Michael Smith of Linden spoke insupport of the legislation saying it’s“dedicated to families of survivors ofeach valiant American.”

Westfield resident Lance Cook ques-tioned the board as to why Union CountyDepartment of Corrections DirectorBrian Riordan is permitted to reside inAtlantic County while commuting toUnion County in a vehicle paid for bythe county. He called his residence“unconsciousable” and “absurd.”

Mr. Cook also said the countyshould switch from SUVs to smallervehicles “that use little gas.”

“Why would you need an SUV?”he asked. “We’re not in Colorado.”

IRS Launches e-NewsFor Small Business

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NJTPA OK’s $10 Billion inTransportation Improvements

NEWARK — The North JerseyTransportation Planning Authority(NJTPA) has approved its annual Trans-portation Improvement Program (TIP),a four-year investment agenda of morethan $10 billion for 13 counties in north-ern and central New Jersey.

The Fiscal Year 2009-2012 TIP,approved by the NJTPA Board ofTrustees at its July meeting, autho-rized approximately $2.6 billion inFiscal Year (FY) 2009 for spendingon road, bridge, rail, bus and bicycle/pedestrian projects and programs.

“The TIP represents billions of dol-lars invested in our region’s infrastruc-ture,” said NJTPA Chairman Susan M.Zellman, Freeholder, Sussex County.“These investments improve regionaltransportation, and they also do muchmore by creating jobs, strengtheningthe economy and helping northern NewJersey maintain its competitive edgein the global marketplace.”

In the FY 2009 program, approxi-mately $1.5 billion in combined state,federal and other funding is desig-nated for road and bridge projectsand about $1.1 billion goes to transit.The program addresses priorities out-lined by the NJTPA in its long-rangetransportation plan for the region.

“First and foremost, this programstresses repair and maintenance ofour existing roads, bridges and transitinfrastructure,” said Bergen CountyExecutive Dennis McNerney, whoserves as NJTPA first vice-chairman.“It also contains funding for key tran-sit expansions, intersection improve-

ments and other projects that willhelp move people and goods moreefficiently in our region.”

Repair, maintenance and enhance-ment of road and transit facilitiesmakes up three-quarters of the in-vestments slated for Fiscal Year 2009.

Some of the major highway andbridge projects scheduled for fund-ing over the next four years are:

$200 million for interim repairs tothe Pulaski Skyway in Jersey City.

$6.6 million for completion of theresurfacing of eight miles of Interstate78 from east of Tunnel Road to east ofBeaver Brook in Hunterdon County.

$87.1 million for construction ofthe Tremley Point Connector Road inLinden and Carteret.

$84.3 million for construction oftwo ramps at the Interstate 78/GardenState Parkway interchange in Hill-side and Union townships.

Public transit investments slatedfor the region include:

$271 million for procurement ofnew rail cars and locomotives toexpand capacity and improve reli-ability for thousands of commuters.

$466.2 million for the Access tothe Region’s Core Tunnel, which theNJTPA has designated as the region’shighest transit priority. The Tunnelwould enable Raritan Valley Linecommuters a one-seat ride into Man-hattan.

Westfielder to HeadPhilanthropy Event

CHATHAM — Westfield residentJonathan Pearson has been namedchairman of the annual dinner/caba-ret fundraising gala by Partnership inPhilanthropy (PIP). The event will beheld on September 25 at the NewJersey Performing Arts Center(NJPAC) in Newark. PIP will honorPSE&G Foundation President JohnSmith at the event.

Mr. Pearson joined Horizon in 1994.In addition to his program directorposition, he is director of The HorizonFoundation for New Jersey, a privatecorporate Foundation that commencedoperation on January 1, 2004.

The PIP fundraising dinner/caba-ret at NJPAC will begin with a pre-dinner reception and silent auction at5:30 p.m. The dinner and presenta-tions will start at 6:30 p.m., followedby cabaret performer Liz Callaway.Tickets to the fundraising gala areavailable through PIP, (973) 701-9810.

Bureau of Mosquito ControlCalls Attention to New Pest

ELIZABETH — Add the Asian Ti-ger Mosquito to the list of flying, sting-ing pests to watch out for this summer.This non-native species has been mov-ing northward since first identified inTexas in 1985. It has now found a homein at least half of New Jersey.

Unlike many mosquitoes, the AsianTiger shuns green space. It prefers

crowded urban habitats includingpatios and backyards.

It is called a “container mosquito”because it breeds easily in any smallobject that holds water, such as flowerpots, yard toys, discarded tires, emptybottles, plastic bags, and bottle caps.

The Asian Tiger also breeds in ne-glected pools or fountains, or cloggedrain gutters.

Removing litter and debris is amajor first step toward eliminatingbreeding sites. Unused pools, foun-tains, and ornamental ponds shouldbe drained and covered. Residentsshould also check their outdoor equip-ment and garden ornaments, includ-ing grills, wheelbarrows, and tarpau-lins, to ensure there is no place forwater to collect, even in smallamounts. Rain gutters should becleaned regularly to ensure that waterdoes not collect in blockages, andwater in birdbaths should be changedat least once per week.

To avoid bites, residents are advisedto wear long clothing when outdoors inthe early morning and early evening.DEET remains the single most effec-tive mosquito repellent.

Residents can call the UnionCounty Mosquito Hotline at (908)654-9834 to report mosquito infesta-tions. County inspectors will exam-ine the property and recommend waysto eliminate breeding sites. If needed,the inspectors will also survey thesurrounding area.

Governor Signs FamilyCare Legislation

TRENTON — Governor JonCorzine signed legislation on July 7expanding NJ FamilyCare and estab-lishing mandates for health care cov-erage of all children.

The bill, S-1557/A-2624, expandsNJ FamilyCare to include more low-income parents. It also mandates thatall children in the state have healthcare coverage through public or pri-vate means.

REACHING OUT…Walter Trosin of Scotch Plains, a rising junior at GeorgetownUniversity, spent time in the Philippines this summer with a developmentorganization called Gawad Kalinga (“to give care”). The group works to pull thePhilippines out of poverty and extensive homelessness. Walter is pictured abovewith some children from a rural village on the island of Bacolod, where the groupstopped and did some manual work.

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Port Authority UndertakesStrategic Assessment StudyREGION — With cargo volumes

in the Port of New York and NewJersey continuing to exceed projec-tions, the Port Authority has launcheda study to explore what it must do tokeep the port the leading east coastdestination for international shippers.

During the July 24 Board of Com-missioners meeting, Deputy Execu-tive Director Susan Bass Levin briefedboard members on the strategic busi-ness assessment, which began earlierthis month and will be completed inearly 2009.

The assessment will explore land-use issues, including terminal capac-ity and space that may be needed tohandle future cargo growth in a finan-cially and environmentally sustain-able manner. It will also look at cargoprojections and ways to boost portproductivity.

“With the demand for consumergoods rising and the construction ofbigger ships underway, we must im-mediately plan the port’s future,” Ms.Bass Levin said. “This assessment willgive us the tools we need to face portcapacity issues head-on, and to makethe strategic investments we need toensure continuing cargo growth.”

Port Authority Chairman AnthonyCoscia said, “The future success ofour port and the region’s economyhinge on our ability to efficientlyhandle all of the cargo that wants tocome here. Today our port is the lead-ing East Coast destination for inter-national shippers because of forward-looking investments we’ve made overthe last few decades, and this studywill help us to identify how to accom-modate even greater volumes of cargoin the years ahead.”

Port Authority Executive DirectorChris Ward said, “As previous studies

have told us, our port cargo volumesare growing phenomenally – dou-bling over the next 10 years – and weneed to plan for the future now. Thisassessment will help us to look out-side the box and come up with inno-vative ways to handle more cargo onexisting and new land. It will give usa road map on what we can do.”

To begin to plan for future land use,the Port Authority in March acquired119 acres on the eastern end of the PortJersey peninsula in Jersey City for re-development of new cargo containerspace. The property was added by pur-chasing the remaining years on North-east Auto Terminal’s auto processingfacility lease with the Port Authority.

With the changes taking place andcargo growth in the Port of New Yorkand New Jersey, an update of a previ-ous study, completed in 2006, is re-quired, officials said.

That study, the Comprehensive PortImprovement Plan, found that the portwould not exceed 5 million TEUs(20-foot equivalent units) until 2015.The port surpassed that number in2006. In 2007, the port handled 5.3million TEUs.

The study also found that the portwould handle approximately 674,000vehicles by the year 2020. In 2007,the port handled 930,298 vehicles.

In its 2007-2016 Capital Plan, thePort Authority budgeted $2 billionfor improvements to the port, includ-ing off-port road improvements, thecompletion of the ExpressRail sys-tem and the deepening of the harbor’schannels to 50 feet.

In conjunction with its port improve-ment program, Port Authority offi-cials said they have taken an “aggres-sive role as environmental stewards ofthe New York Harbor.” The agency’sprogram includes initiatives that havereduced greenhouse gas emissions re-lated to port operations, such as the$600 million ExpressRail program todecrease the amount of cargo shippedby truck; the retrofitting of Staten Is-land ferries; modernization of on-portcargo-handling equipment to meetmore stringent standards; the use oflow-sulfur diesel fuel in this equip-ment, and projects to examine“greener” on-port vehicles.

Lance: Taxpayer-FundedPerks Unacceptable

Campaign Release, 7th Congressional District

Peek at the Week

By Paul Peyton of The Leader/Times

In Politics

Peyton's

Nader Campaign Set toSecure NJ Ballot LineTRENTON — Supporters of Inde-

pendent Presidential Candidate RalphNader will submit petitions to theNew Jersey Division of Elections toplace Nader and running-mate MattGonzalez on the November 2008 elec-tion ballot.

New Jersey will be the 18th statethe Nader/Gonzalez Campaign hasfiled for a ballot line since the cel-ebrated consumer advocate an-nounced his intent to run during aFebruary 24 appearance on NBC’s“Meet the Press.” To qualify to ap-pear on New Jersey’s ballot, state lawrequires submission of the signaturesof 800 registered voters. The Nader/Gonzalez campaign will submit 2,013signatures.

Legislative LeadersWant Computer Filters

TRENTON – Following the an-nouncement that Assemblyman NeilCohen (LD-20, Union) was being in-vestigated for having child pornogra-phy on the computer in his state legis-lative office, state legislative want toinstall filtering software system oncomputers for all 120 state legislators.

State Senate President RichardCodey (LD-27, West Orange), As-sembly Speaker Joseph Roberts Jr.(LD-5, Camden), Senate MinorityLeader Tom Kean Jr. (LD-21,Westfield) and Assembly MinorityLeader Alex DeCroce (LD-26, Mor-ris Plains) last Friday released thefollowing joint statement:

“This morning, we directed theOffice of Legislative Services (PLS)to immediately pursue installing themost aggressive Internet filtering soft-ware available on all computers in theLegislature. OLS is acting promptlyand responsively in this regard.

“We recognize that individuals in-tent on breaking the law and abusingpublic resources will still seek waysto do so, but this action is aimed atdoing everything we can to preventsomething of this nature from hap-pening in the future.”

AREA – Republican 7th Congres-sional District candidate LeonardLance called for taxpayer-fundedluxury perks in Congress to stop. Hesaid information released last weekin the Federal Beige book revealed alaundry list of misused taxpayer dol-lars. The list included giant, flat-screen televisions, tropical indoorplants, video cameras and leasedluxury cars.

“Unfortunately, this is yet anotherexample of wasting taxpayer money,”said Mr. Lance. “At a time whenworking families are struggling tostay afloat in the light of rising fueland food cost, some members of Con-gress find it acceptable to treat them-selves to luxury items on thetaxpayer’s dime. This is unaccept-able and must stop.”

Also reported was a stressedeconomy that points to high gasolineprices, elevated food costs and a slug-

gish labor market.“This is another example of why

we must continue to keep taxes lowand practice fiscal restraint. My viewson government, taxes and spendingare responsible – I want less of it,”Mr. Lance said.

Mr. Lance said his opponent, As-semblywoman Linda Stender (LD-22, Fanwood), has voted for “billionsof dollars in new taxes, includingraising taxes on businesses, income,real estate and health care.”

“Senator Lance has consistentlyled the fight against tax, borrow andspend policies in Trenton and will dothe same in Washington,” said Mr.Lance’s campaign manager, AmandaWoloshen.

Mr. Lance serves in the state sen-ate, representing the 23rd LegislativeDistrict in Hunterdon and WarrenCounties. He won a seven-candidateprimary to win the nomination.

Gov. Signs to Transfer ACConvention Center Project

ATLANTIC CITY – Gov. JonCorzine has signed legislation mov-ing the Atlantic City Convention Cen-ter project from the sponsorship ofNew Jersey Sports and ExpositionAuthority to the control of the Atlan-tic City Convention and Visitors’Authority (ACCVA).

“I am gratified to sign this billtoday so that both the Sports andExposition Authority and the Atlan-tic City Convention and Visitors’Authority can do what they do best:maintain and govern their own desti-nations in different parts of the state,”Governor Corzine said.

“This bill is a significant step in thegrowth and economic vitality of At-lantic City,” he continued. “Over thenext decade, some $15 billion in de-velopment investments are expectedto transform Atlantic City into a glo-bal resort destination. Incorporatingthe Convention Center and Board-walk Hall is critical to that resur-gence.”

The Atlantic City Convention Cen-ter project includes the conventioncenter, which is comprised of ap-proximately 500,000 square feet ofexhibition space, 45 meeting roomsand a 1,500-space parking garage, aswell as the historic Boardwalk Halland its West Hall expansion, which

hosts family shows, concerts andsporting events.

“The Convention Center is an im-portant part of the continued growthof Atlantic City as a world-class tour-ism and convention destination,” saidstate Senator Jim Whelan, (LD-2,Atlantic City), one of the sponsorsof the legislation.

“We’re strengthening the VisitorsAuthority and its ability to maxi-mize the economic potential ofgreater Atlantic City regional,” hesaid

Both facilities generate revenuesthrough either admission charges inthe case of Boardwalk Hall or rents,parking fees, concessions and con-vention and trade-show related ser-vices at the Convention Center.

According to Jeffrey Vasser, ex-ecutive director of the Atlantic CityConvention and Visitors Authority,“The signing of this legislation notonly separates us from the New Jer-sey Sports and Exposition Author-ity, it reflects the maturing of Atlan-tic City as a destination and theACCVA as a destination marketingorganization. It provides greater ef-ficiency, cost savings, and enablesus to better market the Atlantic Cityregion to visitors and conventionplanners.”

Head of NJEA Had BogusBiography on Website

Joyce Powell, president of the NewJersey Education Association(NJEA), conceded last week that herposted biography included some cre-dentials that are not hers, The Star-Ledger reported.

The errors included her being a PhiBeta Kappa graduate of GlassboroState College, now Rowan University.While she graduated from the college,she did not hold the prestigious aca-demic honor. In addition, the papersaid Ms. Powell was incorrectly listedas being a Rutgers fellow, when shewas a teaching associate.

In response, Ms. Powell said shewas a member of a different honorssociety, Kappa Delta Pi. Ms. Powellsaid the errors were a mistake andhave been removed from the NJEA’swebsite.

Congress Considers StimulusPackage for Transportation

Congress is considering a secondeconomic stimulus package that couldinclude $15 billion in infrastructurespending, FoxNews.com reported lastweek.

Rep. James Oberstar (D-MN),chairman of the Transportation andInfrastructure Committee, said thestimulus package could include “ac-celerating” payouts of $9.5 billionfrom the federal trust fund for roadconstruction and maintenance. If ap-proved, the funding would go towards2,600 projects. States would have afew years to pay back matching funds.

Jindal Opts Out of Run for VPOn Ticket for John McCain

CNN has reported that LouisianaGovernor Bobby Jindal has said he isnot interested in being the vice-presi-dential nominee with Republican pre-sumptive presidential nominee JohnMcCain.

Published reports state that thelikely pick will be either former Mas-sachusetts Governor Mitt Romney,

an early contender for president,Florida Governor Charles Crist andMinnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.

Lonegan Challenges State’sBorrowing of $3.9 Billion

Former Bogota Mayor SteveLonegan filed a lawsuit Monday chal-lenging the state’s borrowing of $3.9billion for school constructionprojects without voter approval, TheRecord reported. The money was des-ignated for Abbott school districts,which include Elizabeth andPlainfield in Union County.

Governor Jon Corzine has said thestate was under a state Supreme Courtorder to build new schools in thestate’s poorest districts.

Top Court Says ProsecutorsNot Entitled to Salary BoostsIn a unanimous ruling by the New

Jersey Supreme Court, Justice JohnWallace has wrote that the Cape Mayprosecutor had “failed to establishthat the salary increases” requestedfor county prosecutors were “reason-ably necessary” or “essential.” TheCape May Freeholders turned downthe salary increases in their 2006county budget.

The top court’s decision followedthe Appellate Court decision that ruledin favor of the raises.

NJ Citizen Action Seeks to CutDependence on Foreign Oil

Members of New Jersey CitizenAction protested outside gas stationsin Cherry Hill and Somerville lastThursday and called on Congress totake pro-consumer action to reducethe nation’s dependence on oil.

Citizen Action opposes offshoredrilling, seeks to repeal what it callsthe “$13 billion in wasteful tax breaksfor big oil,” and favors enactment ofa windfall profit tax of oil companyprofits and to use that money “toinvest in mass transit, clean renew-able energy sources, and communityneeds like health care and educa-tion.”

Lawmaker Calls for EndTo Personal Seat Licenses

TRENTON – A state legislator hascalled for the end of personal seatlicenses at New Jersey sports facili-ties. The action follows the announce-ment that the Giants plan to chargefans up to $20,000 per seat to guaran-tee their season tickets when the foot-ball team moves to its new stadium in2010.

Legislation by Assemblyman An-thony Chiappone (LD-31, Bayonne)would prohibit the sale of personalseat licenses or PSLs.

Under plans announced by the Gi-ants, in addition to the cost of theirseason tickets, Giants fans will berequired to pay a one-time per-seatfee to guarantee their season tickets.The Giants’ PSLs start at $1,000 foreach seat in the upper-deck and top-

out at $20,000 for a field level.PSLs for the 13,957 mezzanine

seats range from $4,000 to $12,500each. The Giants have said they ex-pect to generate $367 million shouldthe licenses to all 78,448 seats besold.

Fans who cannot afford the PSLattached to their current seats willeither have to purchase seats else-where in the new stadium or give- uptheir season tickets altogether.

Mr. Chiappone, who is not a Giantsseason-ticket holder, said his legisla-tion would prohibit any team thatplays in New Jersey from selling per-sonal seat licenses. He said the mea-sure would ensure fairness by puttingall fans on equal footing for access toseason tickets.

August 2008 Events

at the Westfield Memorial LibraryLibrary Hours: Monday—Thursday 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Friday 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Restrictions regarding pre-registration or age may apply to some programs. 550 East Broad Street, Westfield, NJ 07090 908-789-4090 www.wmlnj.org

August 1 August 4 August 6 August 8 August 11 August 15

August 18 August 22 August 29

1:30 pm 2:00 & 7:00 pm 6:30 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 & 7:00 pm 1:30 pm

1:30 pm

TGIF! Van Gogh International Film: “Offside” James L. Dean Big Band TGIF! The Bronte Sisters International Film: “Riding Alone” TGIF! Classic Movie Week:Wuthering HeightsInternational Film: “Band’s Visit” No TGIF No TGIF

TEEN AND CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

ADULT PROGRAMS

August 1August 4 August 5 August 6August 6

August 7 August 8 August 15

10:00 am 10:00 am 3:30 pm 10:00 am Evenings by appointment 3:30 pm 10:00 am 10:00 am

Friday Toddlers’ and Babies’ Group Monday Pre-School Storytime Around the World Tales Wednesday Tots’ Storytime Paws to Read with Therapy Dogs

Insects as Pets Friday Toddlers’ and Babies’ Group Friday Toddlers’ and Babies’ Group

Library Closed for Labor Day Weekend August 30, 31 and September 1


Letters to the EditorABCDICTIONOPQRSTDECEPTIONUVWXYZ

TM

DDDDDiction Deception

Letters tothe Editor

Fred K. LecomteMARKETING DIRECTOR

Michael L. Bartiromo MARKETING PRODUCTION

Robert P. ConnellyOPERATIONS & LEGALS

The Westfield Leader

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the offices of the newspapers at P. O. Box 250, Westfield, New Jersey 07091

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Patient Safety RecordsShould be Available

In a few weeks I am scheduled for hipreplacement surgery. Though I trust mydoctors and know the procedure is fairlyroutine, I still can’t help but worry a bit.

Through the Patient Safety Act of 2004,I was able to find out that nearly 460incidents of preventable medical errorsoccur in New Jersey hospitals each year,and now I’m really concerned. How manypreventable medical errors occurred inthe hospital I am about to receive sur-gery?

In New Jersey there is no way to findthis answer. Under current law, the De-partment of Health and Senior Services isrequired to report the total number ofpreventable medical errors that occur inNew Jersey medical facilities each year.But where are the errors taking place?The information is being hidden from usby the state.

Car shoppers can easily access infor-mation about their car’s safety record. Ican find the hours of my hospital’s giftshop and dining services, but I can’t findout anything about its patient safety record.New Jerseyans have the right to knowwhich hospitals have the highest and low-est error rates. But now, patients like mecan only wonder and worry.

Marilyn AskinChief Legislative Advocate

AARP New Jersey

Fraud HotlineU.S. Attorney Chris Christie asks

anyone with a complaint about sus-pecting wrongdoing by governmentactors (elected and appointed officials,holders of contracts, etc.) to call himdirectly or, if they prefer, call the FBI.Mr. Christie prefers to talk with peopledirectly and does not record his phonecalls, so callers need not be concerned.Contact numbers: U.S. Attorney ChrisChristie (973) 645-2700. FBI’s New-ark office (973) 792-3000.

Proud to be in Scotch Plains andRaising My Family in This Community

Cryan and Sen. Lesniak HandoverAsm. Cohen, What is up with That?

Currently Union County Assembly-man Neil Cohen, (D), is hiding out in apsychiatric hospital somewhere whileeveryone else discusses his future. Andthere are those who are waiting for theannouncement of his resignation, as thatwill determine their own futures. Whilethe waiting and watching has been goingon for give or take the past 36 hours, thereare those who had knowledge of theAssemblyman’s so called “troubles” daysago.

I am referring of course to his officepartners, running mates and fellow legis-lators State Senator Ray Lesniak andAssemblyman and State DemocraticCommittee Chairman, but in this situa-tion more importantly Union CountyUndersheriff Joe Cryan.

News reports have indicated that thediscovery of child pornography onCohen’s legislative computer occurredlast week, yet the news reported the inci-dent just this past Thursday evening whenhis buddies Lesniak and Cryan issued astatement praising both their own actionswhen the situation was brought to theirattention and expressing their despair.

Their action, Cryan and Lesniak’s, issaid to be that they reported Cohen to theOffice of Legislative Services after con-fronting him last Monday. The OLS inturn reported him to the State AttorneyGeneral’s office on Tuesday and some-where between then and Thursday nightCohen hot footed it to a psych facility, hiscomputer was confiscated by the statepolice and “Fric and Frac” taped a state-ment about their joint disappointment totheir legislative office door in Union.

Assemblyman Joseph Cryan, D-Union,just happens to be one of the highestranking law enforcement officers in UnionCounty. Currently an Undersheriff, it issaid that he is considered to be next in lineto succeed Ralph Froehlich as the top guyshould the Sheriff one day decide he hashad enough. But what has transpired thisweek could give one cause for concernand raise the question, “is Cryan capableof doing his county job?”

With repugnant criminal activity sus-pected to be taking place right under theirvery noses, why did our county undersh-eriff go running off to the OLS instead ofimmediately contacting the Union CountyProsecutor or his own boss, Froehlich?

With news reports indicating that thedisturbing discovery was made last Fri-

day and the OLS notified on Tuesday,does that mean that Undersheriff Cryansat on this information about illegal activ-ity for at least four days before reportingit to any law enforcement authority greaterthan himself. Was he being derelict in hisduty as an undersheriff by looking theother way?

Oh, to have been a fly on the wall onMonday when Cohen was confronted bythese two; Lesniak and Cryan. Was it atthis meeting that it was decided that Neilwould disappear and take the “rest cure”at an undisclosed location? Who madethat decision? How was it decided to go tothe OLS instead of local law enforce-ment, and what did these two experiencedlegislators think that the OLS could do orshould do? And further. didn’t Cryanknow what to do? He knew who to call into handle the [Karen] Golding situation,but seemed at a loss when an actual realcrime was being committed.

The maneuvering that has taken placein the last week makes the Cryan/Lesniaktale appear questionable and Cohen’s dis-appearance from the scene suspect. Therehas been speculation surfacing that ques-tions the extent of what was actuallydiscovered on the computer in questionand there has been at least one report thatpornographic material may have shownup in this office on at least one otheroccasion previously.

Whether or not there is any substanceto any of the allegations remains to beseen, but judging from Senator Lesniak’sactions and Assemblyman Cryan’s in-ability to act, there is definitely some-thing sinister afoot.

When in anyone’s memory has a coveyof Democrats been willing to abandonand hand over one of their own? Theyusually circle the wagons and loyallydefend the accused all the way to the gaschamber, even in the case of a guy whohas murdered his own mother on MainStreet. Because this current behavior is soout of the ordinary for this crew, it will beinteresting to see what direction this in-vestigation and possible prosecution takes— including who says what about who —especially since Cohen’s attorney has toldThe Star-Ledger that he/she has advisedCohen not to resign his position in thelegislature just yet.

Patricia QuattrocchiGarwood

I am writing this letter to express mysincerest appreciation to all the commu-nity members that helped me after anaccident I had at my home, in ScotchPlains, on July 12th. When the incidentfirst occurred, a landscaper who was inthe area doing work for a neighbor cameto my aid, called the Scotch Plains PoliceDepartment and my wife, and kept mecalm until help arrived.

Officer Stan, of the Scotch Plains Po-lice Department, arrived at the scene andmade sure that I was comfortable and thatmy house was secure. The first aid andambulance personnel were phenomenal.Joan and her colleagues from the ambu-lance squad were extremely compassion-

ate. They made sure I arrived at OverlookHospital safely and stayed with me untilI was examined by a doctor.

As a result of the incident, I underwenta surgical procedure at Overlook Hospi-tal and the orthopedists from SummitMedical Group did an excellent job re-pairing my injury. I want to additionallythank everyone else who assisted me in-cluding my neighbors and other ScotchPlains personnel.

I am proud to be a Scotch Plains resi-dent and to be raising my family in thiscommunity.

Eric MorrellScotch Plains

Stender Supporter Says VoterShift to Democrats is Real

Are local towns moving into the “D”corner? Is there a real shift coming? Yesto both.

In statewide polls for both the Senateseat and the presidential race, the Demo-cratic candidates lead by large margins.Furthermore, in formerly Republican NJ-7, Linda Stender (D) has a big fundraisinglead. The reason: as Bill Clinton’s cam-paign famously pointed out, “It’s theeconomy, stupid.”

I know from my own family that thevoter shift is real. My dad was a Republi-can but now he is living on a fixed in-come. The subprime mortgage messcaused a drop in the value of both mutual

funds and his home.Inflation is eating away at what is left

on his spending power. Many people areworried about rising unemployment. Thisyear, 483,000 Americans have lost theirjobs. Even my Republican dad admitsthat Republican deregulation went too farand led to this recession.

Even my Republican dad now supportsLinda Stender for Congress (D-NJ-7). Heagrees with Linda when she says, “Weneed real change to get our country backon the right track and moving in a newdirection.”

Rachel WeinsteinWestfield

With Construction Done, WHSParking Spaces Should Be Returned

I read in The Westfield Leader that theboard of education (BOE) is nearingcompletion of the Westfield High School(WHS) bond project that was started in2000. I hope that the BOE is still planningto use some of the remaining bond moneyto put back student parking spaces onWHS grounds.

Since the completion of the WHS build-ing addition, students have been forcedout of the lot behind the school because ofspaces lost due to the building construc-tion and to make parking available for theadditional staff that was hired. Currentlythere are no student parking places onWHS grounds, which forces students tolook for parking on residential streets.

In years before the WHS addition, manystudents parked behind the school. Inorder to make the addition complete, stu-dent parking spaces should be re-estab-lished on WHS grounds. The parkingspots that were taken away from the stu-dents should be replaced with additionalon-site parking. Spots could be addedalong Rahway Avenue. Two rows couldbe added behind the WHS and a circulardriveway could be used in the front of theschool.

Please complete the WHS addition byre-providing student parking on WHSgrounds.

Mike NemethWestfield

Below are four arcane words, eachwith four definitions – only one is correct.The others are made up. Are you sharpenough to discern this deception of dic-tion?

If you can guess one correctly – goodguess. If you get two – well-read indi-vidual. If you get three – word expert. Ifyou get all four – You must have a lot offree time!

All words and correct definitionscome from the board game DictionDeception.

Answers to last week’s arcane words.1. Scray – The sea swallow2. Wachna – The little Alaskan cod3. Psellism – Any speech defect, as

stammering4. Javel – A vagabond or lowly person

PTARMIC1. Producing smoke or soot2. Causing to sneeze3. Of an alien or foreign nature4. Pertaining to the final end or purpose

DAWPATE1. Putrid; foul-smelling2. In a relaxed state; resting3. Formed like a fan4. A simpleton; a fool

TELLURAL1. Pertaining to the earth2. Having wits; sense; understanding3. Round or oval in form4. Prophetic; oracular; mysterious

GOBBET1. A naked cell or mass of protoplasm2. A chunk of raw flesh3. A water wheel with buckets4. A tobacco or money pouch

Good News AboutThe Post Office

You have recently not only continuedto be timely in sending The WestfieldLeader to us as indicated in your printedacknowledgement in your issue of July10, but you have established a new record.Today, we received our copy, dated the24th, on the 28th. A 4-day delivery record!

Thank you so much.

Steve and Rose ArbesWisconsin

Publisher’s Note: Steve and Rose,Thank you for letting us know about this.In mailing throughout the country, wedepend on the post office, and any im-provement is to their credit. They areremaking themselves, and perhaps this isa good trend.

We Need Better People in Office,Not Better Computer Software

A little more than two weeks ago, information wasprovided to us from more than one anonymoussource that the District 20 Legislative office locatedat 985 Stuyvesant Avenue in Union, which housesthe offices of Senator Ray Lesniak, Asm. Joe Cryanand Asm. Neil Cohen, was raided on Wednesday,July 9, and files and computers were seized. Was thissame information leaked to other newspapers aswell? Is it accurate?

At that time, our reporters immediately con-tacted local, state and federal agencies to inquire ofthe matter. Everything was hush-hush. We havecontinued to make inquiries with phone calls, al-though not many have been returned. It is ouropinion that the real facts are not completely on thetable today.

Along with this, we are unclear about Sen. Lesniak’sand Asm. Cryan’s statements reported in The Star-Ledger that last week they investigated reports by astaffer of child pornography on the computer of theiroffice mate, Assemblyman Cohen. The Star-Ledgeralso reported that Mr. Lesniak and Mr. Cryan thencontacted the Office of Legislative Services in Tren-ton last week and turned in Asm. Cohen.

We believe the public needs to know more aboutwhat happened. Specifically, when were the com-puters really seized and why? If the computers wereseized on July 9, as leaked to us, how could Mr.Lesniak and Mr. Cryan have conducted a meaning-ful investigation in their office on July 21-22?

Although despicable, just having child pornogra-phy on a computer is a low-level crime. We thinkthere must be more to this.

Did state leaders in Trenton panic last Friday overthe matter? Senate President Richard Codey, et. al.,in a widely distributed press release, called forpornography-blocking software to be installed on alllegislative computers. Was this a frantic attempt todeflect attention from a bigger problem or a move tosalvage the already disparaged reputation of theLegislature? What other information is on thosecomputers?

How could spending millions of taxpayer dollarson anti-pornography software be anything more thanridiculous? Our legislators are elected and entrustedwith billions of public funds; and making life anddeath decisions. But can they not be trusted to turn ona computer?

We obviously need better people in office, notbetter software on their computers.

The public needs to know the complete facts aboutwhat is really going on. Only you, the public, are bigenough to compel this to the light of day.

We keep thinking about U.S. Attorney ChrisChristie’s comments on June 19 about what is in hisprosecuting pipeline for Union County. Could hiscomments have anything to do with this currentinvestigation? For Mr. Christie’s comments, see TheWestfield Leader edition of June 26 and the video onthe Internet at goleader.com.

Coach Urges Westfield to BuildLightning Shelter at Houlihan

Editor’s Note: This letter was sent toWestfield Town Administrator Jim Gildeaand copied to the newspaper.

****I’m sure you’ve seen The Star-Ledger

the last two days, concerning the manfrom Elizabeth that was killed by light-ning at Sandy Hook and the eight otherswho were struck! I mention this becauseas you know now, for the last 5 years Ihave been trying to get a very simpleshelter built at the Houlihan Complex toprotect our youth/adults from lightningwhen the alarm sounds.

Presently, all the children are herdedinto the parking lot with absolutely noprotection. Capital projects will probablybe discussed by the council very soon andI think after recent events and the low costof erecting a shelter, it should be a prior-ity. I have in my possession a letter fromMayor Andrew Skibitsky, dated July 14,2006, indicating that this project will beconsidered for the 2007 capital budgetprocess. Councilman Tom Bigosinski andJim Foerst each got a copy.

Three times in June when I was con-ducting a soccer camp for 9 to 10 year-oldboys and girls, the alarms went off. I hadabsolutely no place to move the childrento protect them.

If there is anyone that can get the ballmoving on this, it is you. I appreciate, inadvance, all your efforts to construct ashelter/pavilion to protect those that arerequired to leave the fields at the HoulihanComplex.

Keith HertellWestfield

DeadlinesGeneral News - Friday 4pm

Weekend Sports - Monday 12pmClassifieds - Tuesday 12pm

Ad Reservation - Friday 4pmAd Submittal - Monday 12pm

To Reach UsE-Mail - [email protected]

Phone - (908) 232-4407

For more information, seewww.goleader.com/help

Quote of the Week“The trouble with socialism is that

you eventually run out of otherpeople’s money” – Margaret Thatcher.

Mrs. Woodfield, PleaseKeep Up The Excellent

Work with MusicI just couldn’t let another day go by

without dropping a line complimentingMrs. Wendy Woodfield.

In April of 2008 I was gardening in mybackyard, which backs up to the musicroom at Washington School. The stu-dents were singing “Take Me Out to theBall Game.” They sang beautifully, itsounded like they were professionals onstage and so in tune with one another. Ienjoyed listening to them.

Mrs. Woodfield is certainly a wonder-ful music teacher, and not to mention howwell she disciplined the students, by menoticing the manner in which the childrenwere so well behaved walking outsidetowards the swing set to practice. It wasvery refreshing.

Mrs. Woodfield, please keep up theexcellent work. As I look forward tohearing the wonderful sound of musicfrom you and the students in the fall of2008, and again in April of 2009.

Johanna DoerrerWestfield

Stimulus ChecksMore than 150,000 New Jerseyans have

failed to apply for $47 million in federaleconomic stimulus checks. The GardenState ranks 10th in the nation in unclaimedpayments. The Internal Revenue Servicesays the deadline to apply is Oct. 15.

Will the $9 Million Buyout KeepPaper Mill House Playing?

The artistic community across New Jersey let out acollective sigh of relief at the news of Paper MillPlayhouse’s partnership with the Township of Millburn.

After months of negotiations, the township has agreedto buy the land and buildings situated on BrooksideDrive from Paper Mill for $9 million.

The playhouse will pay off its loans and move forwardwith a fresh start. The Millburn mayor is touting the dealas a win-win situation, and it is hard to disagree.

However, because of previous financial mismanage-ment on the theatre’s part, we hope similar problems canbe averted in the future. What guarantee is there that itwon’t happen again?

A wide swath of people enjoys the playhouse, not justtheatre buffs.

In a 2007 story, former Governor Brendan Byrne, aShort Hills resident, told The Leader/ Times that PaperMill is “part of the culture of our community. I’m a bigfan, and from a purely selfish aspect, I want to see itsurvive.”

Kids between the ages of 10 and 18 take part in theSummer Conservatory Program, and the playhouse hasinitiated “Rising Star” Awards to reward excellence inhigh school musical productions throughout the state.Westfield and Scotch Plans-Fanwood high school pro-ductions have boasted Rising Star nominees and win-ners. There is an indisputable link between Paper Milland our communities in enhancing arts experience andeducation.

Naturally, too, the theatre must continue to fund youthprograms to create a new generation of theatergoers.Theatres in 2008 now have to compete with cell phones,iPods, iPhones, the Internet, television, blockbustermovies and DVDs – all at people’s fingertips. In the past,the theatre was a natural destination for entertainment.What can be done to interest younger folks in thetheatre? Can more even be done?

Also, there has been an explosion of performing artscenters in New Jersey. These government-funded cen-ters can host theatre, movies, speakers, politicians andcomedians. Can Paper Mill not only survive but also

thrive in a landscape that is littered with ways to preoc-cupy and entertain people? Will theatres eventually haveto expand what they offer the public?

With so much at stake, we can only hope that PaperMill will make the right decisions. Does the currentarrangement guarantee solvency or is it a short-term fix?

Obviously, Millburn recognizes the possible eco-nomic and cultural deficiency that would exist if PaperMill were lost. However, we are assuming this $9million buyout is the equivalent of throwing a Hail Marypass to keep the storied theatre. If an unforeseen eventoccurs in the future, what last-second shot can be madethen to keep it?

With the state at least attempting to trim its budget,one would assume that funding for the arts would be onthe chopping block. Can Paper Mill hold on indefi-nitely?

Mark Jones, the new executive director at Paper Mill,has a history of aiding financially failing theatre compa-nies. He arrived at Paper Mill after helping turn aroundShakespeare and Company, which had a $2.6-millionoperating deficit when Mr. Jones started in 2004.

In addition, Paper Mill, which has attempted a fewnon-traditional performances in the past, must accu-rately understand what productions put fannies in theseats.

Those in charge of selecting productions must ac-knowledge that Millburn is not Manhattan. Perhaps afew more time-honored classics would help attract a fanbase that is getting older. Obviously, there is a jugglingact. Newer performances have to be considered to attractyounger audiences. Can there be a way to wed the two?

It’s a difficult task, and we believe the proper man-agement is in place to make it happen after years ofblundering.

However, what assurances can be given to the public?Can the theatre continue to be a flagship playhouse amidtightening budgets and the proliferation of performingarts centers throughout the state? Can it keep theatreveterans content while catching the attention of a youngercrowd? We’ll have to play it out.


NEW DIRECTOR…Former Westfield resident Janina Jaruzelski is sworn in asDirector for the USAID Regional Mission in Ukraine. She is congratulated byJames Kunder, acting deputy administrator for the United States Agency forInternational Development (USAID) Her brother, Barry Jaruzelski, held theBible while the oath of office was administered.

De Smeer lap eest trug

Gas Crisis Hits New JerseyYellow ‘Shoe-Box-On-Wheels’

Fred Lecomte

That yellow “shoe-box-on-wheels”you see running in and out of townfrom early morning on to late in theafternoon 12 months per year is sup-posed to transport kids to and fromschool safely at a low cost. However,what I see are school buses chauf-feured around with veryfew children on board.

What I also see aremoms with gas guzzling4x4s taking the kids toschool. Man, what anightmare. You see themevery day in their ‘offroad’ vehicles, droppingtheir little darlings offat the school gates intheir 4x4 school busmonster. I basicallyhave no issues with that,but what gets me is thatthey roll up every morn-ing and afternoon, parkwherever they feel it is most conve-nient for them and proceed to unloador pick up all of their kids. By thistime, all of the doors to the idlingvehicle are wide open, preventingtraffic from moving freely. They thenjust stand there and have a good oldgossip with one of the other moms.It’s total chaos, I tell you. To makematters worse, once they drop off‘little Johnny,’ that’s when they sud-denly decide they’re running latethemselves, and watch out anyonewho gets in their way.

What to do! Who’s doing what?Skyrocketing fuel prices and the

downward spiraling economy areforcing school districts to consoli-date bus routes and find innovativeways to stretch their transportationdollars. Bus companies are lookingto slow the flow of gasoline and atopportunities to turn some of thosesoot-spewing school buses into aclean, green plug-in-hybrid machine,just like what the New York cabbies

will run around in soon. No moreexhaust clouds. Plug-in hybrid busesuse both a diesel engine and an elec-tric motor, which plugs into a powersocket at night. These plug-in hybridschool buses may be more expensivethan a regular bus, but they will pay

for themselves in just afew years with lowermaintenance and fuelcosts. Yellow “shoe-boxes-on-wheels” getabout six to eight milesper gallon, as the plug-in hybrid rates morethan 12 m.p.g. Thatmeans a big fuel sav-ings for tight budgets.

Other fuel savingideas may include run-ning a shuttle bus withcentral drop-off points,reduce field trips andeliminate sports activi-

ties that motor our kids to EssexCounty.

Here’s a final thought to ponder.Kids should be encouraged to ridetheir bikes to school if conditions aresafe. Kids need to learn from an earlyage how to get around. Riding a bikeand walking are not only good foryour health (and your wallet) and setup for a more active future, but arealso good for the environment. If morekids rode their bikes and fewer chil-dren were driven to school, it wouldbe safer for bike riders and reducetraffic congestion and air pollution.Kids who ride bikes and learn thetraffic laws become better drivers. Atthe high school level, it is appropriateto encourage students to ride bikes. Itgives kids a real sense of self-relianceand independence. We all need moreexercise and less time in the car. Ifgiven proper instruction on the rulesand regulations, and the police de-partment ensures that routes are safe,I believe it will make a difference.

WHS Grads CompeteIn Frisbee TourneyWILDWOOD, NJ – Lacey and

Adam Cohen, formerly ofWestfield and both graduates ofWestfield High School, took partin the world’s largest UltimateBeach Frisbee tournament on July26 and 27.

Over 300 teams participated inlast weekend event in Wildwood.

Poll Says Pickens’ EnergyConcept Should be AdoptedFLEMINGTON – A national study

conducted among 310 self-reportedRepublicans, Democrats and Inde-pendents revealed that all parties be-lieve that the presidential candidatesshould adopt T. Boone Pickens’ en-ergy concept after viewing his newad.

The communications researchstudy was conducted by HCD Re-search and the Muhlenberg CollegeInstitute of Public Opinion duringJuly 28 to 29 to obtain Americans’views on a new energy ad sponsoredby Mr. Pickens in which he endorsesalternative-energy sources.

While viewing the ad, participantsindicated their levels of agreement bymoving their mouse from left to righton a continuum. The responses wererecorded in quarter-second intervalsand reported in the form of curves.Participants were also asked pre- andpost-viewing questions. To viewcurves and detailed results, go tomediacurves.com.

Among the study findings:Do you believe that T. Boone

Pickens’ energy concept should beadopted by the presidential candi-dates? After Viewing Pickens’ Ad(percent):

Democrats Yes – 92No – 8Republicans Yes – 88No – 12Independents Yes – 82No – 18Do you believe that T. Boone

Pickens’ energy concept is realistic?After Viewing Pickens’ Ad (percent):

Democrats Yes – 89No – 11Republicans Yes – 86No – 14Independents Yes – 84No – 16 percent

Trinitas HospitalChanges Name

ELIZABETH – The Board of Trust-ees of Trinitas Hospital voted on July24 to change the institution’s name toTrinitas Regional Medical Center(TRMC). In accordance with stateregulations, the hospital has submit-ted an application for the formal namechange to the state Department ofHealth and Senior Services.

Trinitas was established in January2000 following the consolidation ofElizabeth General Medical Center andSt. Elizabeth Hospital.

With a staff of more than 2,400employees and a medical staff of closeto 500 physicians, TRMC is one ofthe largest employers in central NewJersey. A teaching hospital, TRMCoffers highly specialized care throughten Centers of Excellence.

Trinitas Regional Medical Centeris a healthcare institution sponsoredby the Sisters of Charity of SaintElizabeth in partnership withElizabethtown Healthcare Founda-tion. For more information pleasevisit trinitas.org.

PIE GALS…Franklin Elementary School thanks Joey Polizzi of Ferraro’s Res-taurant for helping moms Lisa Lee (left) and Karen Jason serve more than 34,500slices of pizza to students this past year.

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Peterson’s Knowledge of Wine “Transports”Customer to Another Time & Place

I take in a long, deep, fragrant breath and hear the passing wind rustle the trees behind me. I sip a refreshingly chilled Italian white wine thinking, “this

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Begun in 1876 by William Gray, in Cranford and later Incorporated in

1897 as the Gray Burial & Cremation Company.

Today, known by many simply as Gray’s. We continue to provide the

personal service that began with Mr. Gray, whether it be for burial or

cremation.

Gray Funeral Home Gray Memorial Funeral Home

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Westfield, NJ 07090 Cranford, NJ 07016

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– Obituaries –Florence R. Schembs, 96, Nurse’s Aide;

Worked For Prudential and Adler’sFlorence Rita Groves Schembs, 96,

of Westfield passed away on Tues-day, July 22, at the Center For HopeHospice, Peggy Coloney’s House atHope Village in Scotch Plains.

Born in Newark on November 25,1911 to Aloysious Joseph Groves andFlorence Barber Groves, she was a1931 graduate of Barringer HighSchool in Newark.

“Grovsy,” as she was known, ex-celled in athletics, foreign languageclubs, the science club, cheering squadand theater groups, and also had aspecial interest in art.

She was married to Douglas C.Schembs on February 23, 1946 at St.Charles Borromeo Roman CatholicChurch in Newark. After her mar-riage, she lived in Newark and Eliza-beth before moving to Westfield in1952.

In 1943, Florence was certified as aNurse’s Aide with the Newark Chap-ter of the American Red Cross. Shealso worked in the Industrial Policy

Department of the Prudential Insur-ance Company and at Adler’s Jew-elry Store in Westfield.

Her husband, Douglas C. Schembs,Sr., predeceased her.

Surviving are her son, Douglas C.Schembs, Jr., his wife, the ReverendLois Schembs, and a granddaughter,Jennifer Schembs. She also will bedeeply missed by her four nieces, twonephews and two cousins.

Funeral services were held on Sat-urday, July 26, at Saint Paul’s Episco-pal Church in Westfield, where shewas a member for many years.

Arrangements were by the GrayFuneral Home, 318 East Broad Streetin Westfield.

In lieu of flowers, contributions tothe Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey,841 Mountain Avenue, Springfield,N.J. 07081 or the Center For HopeHospice, Peggy’s House, 1900Raritan Road, Scotch Plains, N.J.07076 would be appreciated.

July 31, 2008

Sergio F. Sotolongo, 83, Longshoreman;Was Active With Holy Trinity Church

Sergio F. Sotolongo, 83, ofWestfield died on Tuesday, July 22, atRobert Wood Johnson UniversityHospital in New Brunswick.

Born and raised in Cuba, he came tothe United States in 1962, settling inNew York City. Mr. Sotolongo, whobecame a United States citizen in 1971,lived in Westfield for 24 years.

He had been a longshoreman withthe International Longshoremen’s As-sociation of New York City for 25years, retiring in 1989.

Together with his wife, Mr.Sotolongo was an active member ofthe Holy Trinity Roman CatholicChurch in Westfield, serving as anusher and as a member of the choir.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years,

Fermina Amengor Sotolongo; twosons, Sergio E. Sotolongo and DavidSotolongo; a sister, Maria Lusia; histwin brother, Roberto Sotolongo, andtwo grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial wasoffered on Saturday, July 26, at theHoly Trinity Church. Burial tookplace at Rosehill Cemetery in Lin-den.

Arrangements were by the DooleyColonial Home, 556 Westfield Av-enue in Westfield.

Memorial donations may be madeto the Cancer Institute of New JerseyFoundation, 120 Albany Street, Tower2, Fifth Floor, New Brunswick, N.J.08901.

July 31, 2008

Ms. Bridget Benisch to WedChazzreno Ca’Merono

Mrs. Jean Steckler and Rich Stecklerof Westfield have announced the en-gagement of Mrs. Steckler’s daughter,Ms. Bridget Stephanie Benisch, toChazzreno Agapé Ca’Merono. He isthe son of Mrs. Heather Ca’Meronoand Lawrence Woods of Las Vegas,Nev. The bride-to-be is the daughter ofStephen Benisch of Summit.

A 1998 graduate of Westfield HighSchool, Ms. Benisch was awarded aBachelor of Arts degree in Anthropol-ogy from Colgate University in 2002.She is a paramedic with AmericanMedical Response in Las Vegas.

Mr. Ca’Merono graduated fromMountain View Christian Academy inLas Vegas and earned his Bachelor ofArts degree from the University ofNevada in Las Vegas.

He is a flight paramedic for criticalcare flight in helicopters at Tri-State

Care Flight, based out of Bullhead,Ariz. The future bridegroom also is aparamedic instructor in Las Vegas.

The couple will be married in Octo-ber in Las Vegas, where they will re-side.

Helen Slocum, 91, Active Volunteer;Worked For Westfield School District

Helen Slocum, 91, of Lakewoodpassed away on Tuesday, July 22, atOcean Medical Center in Brick.

Born in Roselle Park, she spenther childhood and later lived inWestfield for many years beforemoving to Original Leisure Villagein 1966. Helen moved to Harrogatein 1997.

She graduated from Westfield HighSchool and later worked as a secre-tary for the Westfield school district.

Helen was involved in volunteerwork for the Westfield ServiceLeague, Children’s Specialized Hos-pital, the Westfield Rescue Squad,the Thrift Shop, PTA, Cub Scoutsand Little League.

Additionally, she was active inOriginal Leisure Village, especially

the Host and Hostess program, theTravel Club and Kimball MedicalCenter.

Helen also enjoyed dancing,bridge, golf, traveling, reading in theHealth Center, singing in the chorusand being active in Arts and Crafts.

She is survived by her sons, RickSlocum and his wife, Linda, ofPequannock and Wayne Slocum andhis wife, Marte, of Athens, Greece;her five grandchildren, Kelley,Kathleen, Kristine, Jennifer andJames, and her six great-grandchil-dren, Rachel, Rory, Mitchell, Andie,Avery and Henry.

The D’Elia Funeral Home in Lake-wood was in charge of the arrange-ments.

July 31, 2008

Robert A. Loder, Jr, 75; OwnedGallery; Was Dem. Committee ChairRobert A. Loder, Jr., 75, of Brielle,

who lived most of his life in Westfield,died Friday, July 25, after a brief butcourageous fight with cancer. He was75.

Mr. Loder and his wife, Shirley,operated an art gallery, Gull Studiosin Bay Head, for 20 years.

Born in East Orange, Mr. Loderwas raised in Westfield and attendedHoly Trinity School. He was a 1950graduate of St. Benedict’s Prep inNewark. He graduated from the Uni-versity of Pennsylvania, where hewas a member of the Alpha Tau Omegafraternity. In 1956 he married ShirleyMorrell of New Hope, PA.

Mr. Loder served as public rela-tions director at Perth Amboy Gen-eral Hospital until he was drafted intothe Army in 1956. Upon discharge,Mr. Loder joined the Perth AmboyEvening News as a general assign-ment reporter, subsequently coveringthe Middlesex County Courthouseand the New Jersey Legislature, even-tually becoming editorial page editorand political columnist.

In 1965, Mr. Loder joined LueryMarks and Strasser, a NorthBrunswick advertising agency. Heserved as administrative assistant tothe New Jersey State Senate minorityleader, and also as public relationsconsultant with the New Jersey StateCouncil on the Arts.

In 1971, Mr. Loder was namedpublic relations director of the JohnF. Kennedy Community Hospital inEdison, later becoming vice-presi-dent for public relations and market-ing. In 1989, he joined Kimball Medi-

cal Center in Lakewood in the samecapacity.

He retired from Kimball MedicalCenter in 1995 and devoted his timeto painting and his gallery in BayHead.

During his time in Westfield, Mr.Loder became active in DemocraticParty politics. He fulfilled severalroles, including chairman of theWestfield Democratic Committee. Hewas a member of the Union CountyDemocratic Committee and waselected to two terms on the Demo-cratic State Committee. Mr. Loderwas a member of the Manasquan RiverGroup of Artists, the Westfield ArtAssociation, the Ocean County Art-ists Guild and the New Jersey Chap-ter of the American Artists Profes-sional League.

In addition to his wife he is sur-vived by four children: Robert, 3rd,of Far Hills, and former daughter-in-law Pamela; Kathryn Loder-Murphyand son-in-law Kerry Murphy ofShrewsbury; Gregory and daughter-in-law Alison, of Middletown; andChristopher and daughter-in-lawElizabeth, of Westfield, along with10 grandchildren, Amanda, Kaitlyn,Kelsey, Meghan, Kylie, Conner,Catherine, Brendan, Claire and Grace,and pre-deceased by Erin.

The family hosted a celebration ofhis life on Tuesday, July 29, at GullStudios in Bay Head. In lieu of flow-ers, the family requests donations bemade in his memory to Haven Hos-pice, c/o JFK Medical Center, 65James St., Edison, NJ 08818.

July 31, 2008

Band Chooses LibraryFor CD Release Party

FANWOOD – On Thursday, Au-gust 7, the Lampshades will unveiltheir new CD and perform at theFanwood Memorial Library.

Together for two and a half years,the band spent the early part of sum-mer recording its first album projectand has selected the library as theplace for its upcoming release party.

The concert will be held on thelibrary’s front lawn from 5:30 to8:30 p.m.

Three other local bands, GoodmanBrown, Fluid Jazz and Outnumbered,will join the Lampshades, comprisedof Scotch Plains-Fanwood HighSchool students and graduates.

The band began its journey whentrumpet player Nick Murray and gui-tarist Eric Davis, who also sharelead vocal duties, decided to form aska band and modeled it after bandssuch as Reel Big Fish and StreetlightManifesto.

After recruiting Tom Cristiani ondrums, Andrew Livingston on tenorsax, Chris Casserly on guitar (now

on trumpet), Rich Murray on bassand Zach Feldman on trombone, theyplayed their very first show at anSPFHS open mic night in March2006.

They received a positive response,never placing below the top three inany SPFHS Battle of the Bands.

The Lampshades recently playedthe world- famous Knitting Factoryin lower Manhattan as well as ven-ues in Scotch Plains, Fanwood andall of central New Jersey.

Now, the Lampshades have re-corded a seven-song CD as a “thankyou” to every kid, parent and pass-erby that was entertained as a resultof a Lampshades show.

The new CD will be available atthe concert for a reduced price, andthe band encourages everyone tocopy it, rip it to their computers andburn CDs for their friends to helpspread its music as widely as pos-sible.

For more information, contact thelibrary at (908) 322-6400.

Lovatos WelcomeSon, David Heath

Amy and Dave Lovato welcomedthe birth of their first child, son DavidHeath Lovato, on Thursday, July 3, at3:33 p.m. at Morristown MemorialHospital in Morristown.

David weighed 6 pounds and 1 ounceand measured 20 inches in length atbirth.

His father’s hometown is Lincroftand his mother was raised in Plano,Tex. and Rochester, Mich. The couplehas lived in Westfield since 2006.

The baby’s paternal grandparents areRuth and John Lovato of Lakewood.

His maternal grandparents are Bruceand Parry Heath of Morrison, Colo.

David’s maternal great-grandmotheris Janelle Cooper of Paulden, Ariz.

National Night OutOn Tap In Borough

FANWOOD – The Fanwood Com-munity Policing Alliance (CPA) willsponsor Fanwood’s second NationalNight Out celebration on Tuesday,August 5 at LaGrande Park in Fanwood.It will start at 6 p.m. and last until 8 p.m.

The celebration will mark the 25thnational observance of this event. Park-ing will be available at the FanwoodTrain Station (South Avenue side), lo-cated one block from the park.

Free pizza, soda, water and healthgive-aways will be available at the event.Following the celebration, the FanwoodRecreation Department will present its“Movie in the Park,” with a screeningof Alvin and the Chipmunks.

For more details on National NightOut, visit FanwoodCPA.org. Moreinformation on Fanwood’s recreationprograms can be found atFanwoodRecreation.org.

FUMC Series Features‘Dessert and Devotions’

WESTFIELD – The Spiritual LifeCommittee of the First United Method-ist Church offers a summer arts seriesentitled “Dessert and Devotions.” Eachworkshop starts at 7:30 p.m. and ends at9 p.m. A half hour of music, dessert andfellowship is followed by an hour-longprogram. Dessert is provided.

“Praying With Beads” is set forWednesday, August 6. Attendees willdesign and develop their own pattern ofbeads representing various prayers,hymns or Bible passages. A selectionof beads will be available or peoplemay bring their own. Children are wel-come and will have materials suited totheir ability level.

“Meditations With Nature” will beoffered on Wednesday, August 13 in thechurch’s memorial garden. Participantswill be introduced to four differentways to meditate.

The church is located at One EastBroad Street in Westfield. To register,call (908) 233-4211. Sign-up sheetsalso are available outside the churchoffice. The fee for each program is $10.Babysitting and scholarships are avail-able.

Dean Swing Band to PlayOn Wednesday at Library

WESTFIELD – The Westfield Me-morial Library will present the JamesL. Dean Swing Band on Wednesday,August 6 at 6:30 p.m.

A six-piece ensemble, the James L.Dean Swing Band plays a variety ofstyles, from ’40’s swing to rock stan-dards to show band tunes. Singer Car-rie Jackson will accompany the band.

Following a stint with the U.S. NavyBand in Hawaii, Mr. Dean became afixture on the New York metro-areaclub and show band scene.

Mr. Dean formed the band in 1995.Following an eight-year run atTierney’s Tavern in Montclair, theband moved its regular venue to TheWhiskey Cafe, a dance club in theMeadowlands.

According to a review in LA Jazz

Scene magazine, “Dean should berated among the top five or six clari-netists currently active.” Mr. Deanalso plays the flute and the tenor, altoand baritone saxophones.

This program is open to WestfieldMemorial Library and MURALcardholders. To register, visit thelibrary’s circulation desk or call (908)789-4090, extension no. 4140.

During the summer, the library isopen Monday through Thursday from9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 9:30a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10a.m. to 1 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.

The library is located at 550 EastBroad Street. For more information,call (908) 789-4090, visit wmlnj.orgor stop by the library for a copy of itsquarterly newsletter.

Chazzreno Ca’Merono and Ms. Bridget Benisch

THE ECO-CRAFT ZONE OPENS

IN WESTFIELD

Local residents Shari ReichBrandman, formerly of Surgent’s EliteGymnastics, and JoAnn Magers Araya,an earth & environmental sciencegraduate of Wilkes College and formerowner of SunJo Martial Arts Academy,opened The Eco-Craft Zone at 715Central Avenue, Central Square Mall#10, on July 15, 2008.

The newly “green” renovated 1,300square foot, air-conditioned facilityprovides 2-hour craft sessionsemphasizing the use of natural materialsand sensitivity to the environment forchildren ages 4-11. Attendance is byadvance reservation. During the craftsessions, the children are introduced tothe concept of “reduce, reuse, recycleand recraft” through creativeexpression.

The children work on projects suchas puppets, mobiles, masks, musicalinstruments, origami, placemats, sandart, jewelry, banks, wind chimes, andbird feeders (to name a few) using sodabottles, glass jars, egg cartons, tissueboxes/paper towel rolls, shoe boxes,and other commonly discardedhousehold items. Non-toxic and organicbased art supplies are used to paint,

color and decorate the crafts in eachchild’s own unique way.

Emphasis is placed upon contributingto a sustainable community throughorganic gardening, community actionprojects promoting the “Live Globally-Act Locally” attitude, and support ofenvironmentally friendly initiatives.The Zone staff identifies those types ofitems that can be recycled, how toseparate those items for curbside pickup or drop off at a local recycling center,and the concept and importance of“recycle and reuse” by describing theEarth as a place of limited resources.

The Eco-Craft Zone also offersbirthday parties featuring invitationsmade from recycled paper, earth-friendly craft projects, partyware madefrom corn plastic and other recycledmaterials, and biodegradable goodiebags packed with useful and fun itemsmade from recycled and organicproducts.

For further information, to schedulea free trial session, to book anenvironmentally friendly birthdayparty, or to check out our “Ecotique,”go to ecocraftzone.com or call (908)233-ZONE (9663).

Paid Bulletin Board

RECESSION PROOF YOUR SALES

FORCE IN A TOUGH ECONOMYPaid Bulletin Board

STEVENSON, Md., July 23 —As news of the battered economyproliferates the media and consumerconfidence stagnates to historiclows, nowhere does the impact hitcloser to home than in the salesindustry. That’s why it is importantto have an effective strategy in placeto take action when the economy istrending down. In response to this,Sandler Training (also known asSandler Sales Institute) has co-authored a book titled Five Minuteswith VITO(sm); Making the most ofyour selling time with the VeryImportant Top Officer. The book,which is scheduled for releaseAugust 15, will be available forpurchase through Sandler Traininglocations and on Amazon.com.

“It is critical that salespeoplecompress their sales cycle by goingdirectly to the organization’s VITO,which stands for Very Important TopOfficer,” says David Mattson, co-author and CEO of Sandler Training.“This book not only details how toget to VITO, but what to do whenyou get there.” In addition, Mattsonoffers important strategies torecession proof your sales efforts:

Feel Their Pain. “Let’s face it,clients are in pain,” says Mattson, “Ifthere is no pain, there is no sale.”Now is the time to thoroughlyunderstand and feel your client’spain, and adapt accordingly. Pain isa jigsaw puzzle that has three distinctelements; problems, reasons andimpact. By putting the piecestogether with your client you are ableto recognize what’s happening. Ifyou can’t solve your client’s pain,your competition will.

The Fear Factor. Understand thepsychology behind a recession’s fearfactor and openly discuss it with yoursales team. Engage a team approachof how to meet company goals.Share your vision of what measuresneed to be taken to ensure success,and ask them to be part of thesolution by finding hiddenopportunity, up-selling andidentifying cost saving measureswithin the organization. Encouragea positive mindset that looks beyondpublic perceptions to theopportunities change affords.

Remain Flexible. With risingfuel costs many companies haveshifted to a condensed work week.Be willing to meet clients at theirlocation and recognize the changingnature of the standard work week by

making yourself accessible andavailable where and when they are.

Coach and Train. The worst timeto cut back on sales or training is ina recession. Focus and highlightevery area of success and discusswhat was done to create it and exploitit. Highlight sales wins, referencegoals and site historical examples ofhow the company or a salespersonhas gone above and beyond.

Mobilize your Sales Force. “Alleyes need to be focused on theprize,” says Mattson. That meansbringing every department thatsupports what sales does into themix. Ratchet your sales focus up anotch. Now is the time to quantifywhat you can do for clients becauseeveryone is looking for ways toeither save money or make moremoney.

David Mattson is the CEO and apartner at Sandler Training. Since1986 he has been a trainer andbusiness consultant in management,sales interpersonal communication,corporate team building and strategicplanning throughout the U.S. andEurope. His domestic andinternational clients include top-name organizations in manydifferent industries.

Five minutes with VITO is thedefinitive guide for salespeople whowant to start selling where theybelong - at the top. Together theauthors David Mattson and AnthonyParinello, founder and CEO ofVITO, combine 80 year of salesknow-how, 1,200 hours of audio andvideo programs, 5,000 pages oftraining materials, and directexperience in training over 15million salespeople into one concisebook.

Sandler Training is the leadingprovider of sales and managementtraining with 225 licensed trainersthroughout the U.S. andinternationally. The companyprovides a full range of sales andmanagement training programs,with powerful coordination andcustomization benefits throughoutits extensive franchise network.Among its many achievements,Entrepreneur Magazine hasawarded Sandler its #1 ranking forTraining Programs 8 times since1994, including the past three years2006, 2007, and 2008. The companywebsite is located at http://www.sandler.com. Carlos PerezSantalla: 201-984-5988


EARNING THE BRONZE…Junior Girl Scout Troop 358 of Westfield surroundtheir presentation board at the Westfield Bronze Award Ceremony held in Juneat First Congregational Church. Pictured, from left to right, are: Seated, AnnaReid and Kelly Kristiansen, and standing, Amber Johnson, Jacqueline Daaleman,Katherine Ko and Sara McCutcheon.

Troop 358 Achieves BronzeBy Working With Seniors

WESTFIELD – Members ofWestfield Junior Girl Scout Troop358 earned their Bronze Award at aceremony held in June at the FirstCongregational Church in Westfield.The Bronze Award is the highest honoravailable to a Junior Girl Scout.

Recipients are JacquelineDaaleman, Amber Johnson, KatherineKo, Kelly Kristiansen, SaraMcCutcheon and Anna Reid.

Troop 358 has always enjoyed help-ing and working with senior citizens.As Daisies, these scouts made snow-flake ornaments for the Sunrise As-sisted Living community and sangChristmas carols there. As Brownies,they played Bingo with residents atWestfield Senior Citizens Housing.

For their Bronze Award project,troop members chose to work withresidents at the Ashbrook Nursing andRehabilitation Center in Scotch Plains.

Before beginning this project, thescouts completed requirements for

junior badges Communication andAcross Generations; they also earnedthe Sign of the Sun and the JuniorAide Award by coordinating withTroops 360 and 445 to host a Think-ing Day event for younger scouts atWilson Elementary School inWestfield.

In January, the troop took a tour ofthe Ashbrook center and initiatedplanning of the service project. Dur-ing the next three months, the girlsmade multiple trips to Ashbrook toplay Pokeno, make arts and craftsitems to decorate the rooms, serve icecream and learn about residents’ per-sonal histories.

Many friends were made as a resultof the girls’ interaction with the se-niors for this project. Troop 358 mem-bers extended appreciation to theirleaders, Angela Ko and LindaJohnson, as well as their parents, forsupporting them in successfully pur-suing their Bronze Award.

Caregivers to HoldMonthly Meeting

WESTFIELD – A support group forthose caring for elderly or chronicallyill loved ones will meet on Monday,August 4 at 8 p.m. in the parish centerof St. Helen’s Roman Catholic Church.

Meetings are held on the first non-holiday Monday of each month. Theseare information and sharing sessions.The parish center is located on Lam-berts Mill Road in Westfield. For moreinformation, call Marilyn Ryan at (908)233-8757.

Sisterhood AnnouncesRummage Sale Sunday

AREA – The Sisterhood of TempleSha’arey Shalom will conduct its an-nual rummage sale on Sunday, August3 in the temple social hall at 78 SouthSpringfield Avenue in Springfield.Temple Sha’arey Shalom counts resi-dents of Westfield and Cranford amongits congregation members.

The rummage sale will take placefrom 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 5 to7:30 p.m. The Temple Sha’arey Sha-lom Brotherhood, under the leadershipof President Jason Pleva, will provideassistance for the event. Cindy Sigl ispresident of the sisterhood.

Items for sale will include housewares, clothing, furniture and toys,among other merchandise. Addition-ally, Sunday evening will be “BagNight,” when a brown grocery bag canbe filled up with assorted items for $5.

Sha’arey Shalom is a Reform Jewishcongregation affiliated with the URJ –Union for Reform Judaism (formerlyUnion of American Hebrew Congrega-tions – UAHC).

The public is invited to attend the2008 Temple Sha’arey Shalom Sister-hood rummage sale. For more informa-tion, call the temple office at (973) 379-5387, e-mail [email protected] or visitthe temple website, shaarey.org.

Blood Donors to ReceiveMarketplace Certificates

SCOTCH PLAINS – On Saturday,August 2 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., theScotch Plains Business and ProfessionalAssociation (SPBPA) will sponsor ablood drive in conjunction with theBlood Center of New Jersey.

It will take place at the Scotch PlainsFarmers’ Marketplace, located in theScotch Plains Municipal Building park-ing lot at 430 Park Avenue.

Donors will receive a $20 gift certifi-cate toward purchases at the market-place. As part of the SPBPA Commu-nity Outreach effort, this drive will beheld to meet the community’s increas-ing need for blood. New Jersey facescontinuing shortages of blood dona-tions and must import blood regularlyfrom other states.

Blood Center officials note that eachunit of blood donated is broken downinto several components, includingplatelets, plasma and red cells; onedonation can save up to three lives.

Donors are first asked medical his-tory questions and given a mini-healthcheck, including pulse, blood pressureand iron levels. The actual donation ofblood takes five to seven minutes, afterwhich the donor is given a snack andjuice. The entire process generally takesless than one hour. Donors will receivea free cholesterol screening.

Donors must be at least 17 years old,weigh at least 120 pounds and be ingeneral good health. There is no upperage limit for donors, provided theymeet health requirements. Participantsshould bring a signed or picture form of

identification. People with a fever orsore throat should wait until they arefeeling better to donate, and there is a24-hour deferral for teeth cleaningsand fillings.

Those who have recently traveledoutside of the United States are asked tocall the blood center at (973) 676-4700,extension 132, for eligibility criteria.

Individuals are encouraged to pre-register at bloodnj.org. For more infor-mation, call Jeff Stein at (908) 322-6774 or the blood center at (800) 652-5663, ext. 140.

Teens to Hold ShowerFor Twilight Couple

FANWOOD – The Teen Group ofthe Fanwood Memorial Library willhost a bridal shower on Tuesday, Au-gust 5 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in honor oftwo characters from Stephanie Meyer’slatest novel in the Twilight series,“Breaking Dawn.”

This event will celebrate the mar-riage of Bella and Edward, the literarylovebirds from the Twilight series. Allteens in grades 6 to 12, especially fansof Twilight, are invited to attend.

The festivities will include trivia con-tests, listening to music, discussion ofthe books and the awarding of a copy of“Breaking Dawn” to one guest. Bridalshower refreshments will be served.

Interested individuals are asked torespond by calling the library at (908)322-6400. The library is located atNorth Avenue and Tillotson Road.

Small Pleasures Can EclipseGod’s Great Reward For Us

By BRIAN NICKLAUS

A few weeks ago, the wife and kidswent to the Bronx Zoo with friends.Kids are so funny, just like small adults,really. The kids wanted to finish watch-ing Curious George before we left,even though we were trying to tell themthey were going to the zoo. They knewthey were going to the zoo, but were toointo “Monkey George,” as my daughtercalls him.

Then, as I drove them up to theirfriend’s house, my four-year-old sonwas talking about playing with his traintable. The little boy has a cool play-room. Even though the zoo (BronxZoo, mind you) was the big, excitingplan for the day, all he could think of

was playing at his little friend’s house.You and I are like that. God promises

us so much in the end (a lot now, too),but we get excited about the little things.And even the little things that impede orcrowd out what’s most important. Wefocus on weak, short-term pleasurewhen God wants us to enjoy so muchmore.

We call them “trade-offs.” How muchfuture good are we giving up or passingup for something now? Whether youare discussing financial matters or spiri-tual ones, we are too often like littlekids. Impatient. Concerned only aboutnow. It’s all about instant gratification.“Who cares about tomorrow?”

C.S. Lewis was a great Christianthinker, and he said this:

“…if we consider the unblushingpromises of reward and the staggeringnature of the rewards promised in theGospels, it would seem that Our Lordfinds our desires not too strong, but tooweak. We are half-hearted creatures,fooling about with drink and sex andambition when infinite joy is offeredus, like an ignorant child who wants togo on making mud pies in a slum be-cause he cannot imagine what is meantby the offer of a holiday at the sea. Weare far too easily pleased.” (C. S. Lewis,The Weight of Glory and Other Ad-dresses [Grand Rapids: Eerdmans,1965], pp. 1-2.)

* * * * * * *Mr. Nicklaus is minister of the Echo

Lake Church of Christ, located at 419Springfield Avenue in Westfield.

Register by calling 908.789.4090 X 4140. Program open to Westfield Memorial

Library and MURAL cardholders. 550 East Broad Street, Westfield

The Westfield Memorial

Library Presents

James L. Dean

Swing Band

Wednesday, August 6

at 6:30 pm

Mothers to Hear TalkOn Chiropractic CareCRANFORD – Mothers and More

will host a meeting about chiropracticcare on Wednesday, August 6 at 8 p.m.Dr. Tricia Mastropietro, director of Fam-ily Chiropractic of Clark, will discussthe benefits of chiropractics during preg-nancy and for children.

Mothers and More is a non-profitorganization dedicated to improvingthe lives of mothers through support,education and advocacy. Member ac-tivities include fun and informativemeetings, moms’ nights out, a bookclub, family events and playgroups,among other offerings.

The Union County chapter holdsmeetings on the first and third Wednes-days of each month at 8 p.m. at theCranford United Methodist Church,Room 23, located at 201 Lincoln Av-enue in Cranford. New members arealways welcome. For more informa-tion, call Lori at (732) 388-4390 orKaty at (908) 272-4881.

JCC Announces TripTo Playhouse Aug. 6

SCOTCH PLAINS – On Wednes-day, August 6, the Jewish CommunityCenter (JCC) of Central New Jerseywill sponsor a trip to the HunterdonHills Playhouse to see Let the GoodTimes Roll, a show celebrating the musicof a bygone era.

A coach bus will depart at 10:30 a.m.from Congregation Beth Israel, locatedat 18 Shalom Way in Scotch Plains, andwill return there in the late afternoon.All are welcome.

Tickets are $75 for JCC membersand $80 for non-members, and includeboth the show and lunch with an “all-you-can-eat” dessert buffet.

The JCC is located at 1391 MartineAvenue in Scotch Plains. To make areservation, contact Barbara Weisbartat [email protected] or (908) 889-8800, extension no. 207. More infor-mation also is available at jccnj.org.The deadline for reservations is Mon-day, August 4.

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THE WEEK IN SPORTSSports Section

Pages 9-12

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KENNEDY CRACKS 3-RUN HR, ALVAREZ SOLO BLAST

St. Pats Pound St. Dave, 18-5,In St. Bart’s Softball League

LaCORTE DRILLS 3-RUN TRIPLE; ‘UK’, FRIEL 2-FOR-2

Westfield 9s Erupt in 5th, TopMillburn N. J. All-Stars, 6-0

By DAVID B. CORBINSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

An intense pitchers’ duel wasabruptly interrupted when theWestfield Blue scored five runs on sixhits in the bottom of the fifth inningen route to a 6-0 victory over Millburnin the North Jersey All-Star Leaguesemifinals at Gumbert Field inWestfield on July 27.

The victory also earned the Bluethe regular-season league title andtheir only loss was a 1-0 decision toMillburn.

“It was a nice sense for our boys toknow that when they lose a game,they get better and they play themagain, they can beat them,” saidWestfield coach Al Rabinowitz.

Westfield Blue pitchers MikeUkrainskyj and Matt LaCorte com-bined for 10 strikeouts, while yield-ing just three hits, two walks and a hitbatter. Millburn starting pitcher RichSchiekofer struck out two and al-lowed just three hits, a hit batter andone walk before being relieved in thefifth inning by Kyle Mangold.

Defense was just as effective as thepitching and both teams’ secondbasemen stole a big part of the show.Westfield’s Zach Rabinowitz hauledin a pair of popups and scooped sev-

eral sizzling grounders. Millburn sec-ond baseman Alex Tomko made sev-eral startling plays, especially onewhere he grabbed a grounder, taggedthe runner heading to second andtossed to first for a double play.

“Both teams played exceptionallywell in the field. The four pitcherspitched great,” said Millburn coachJack Dibble. “Alex Tomko! There’s akid, who probably (in) some yearsmay not have made our team, butevery time we ask him to do some-thing in the tryouts, he’s probably thesmartest player I have ever coached.He made up for any shortcomingswith his brain. Kids, who don’t un-derstand the game, don’t make double

plays like that.”“They may have made one error all

game, a throwing error. Their secondbaseman was unbelievable! Theycame up with a play that 9-year-oldsaren’t supposed to make,” said coachRabinowitz.

Schiekofer, Nico Mottesi andTomko each had a single for Millburn,while Jordan Brisgell was walkedand hit by a pitch and Matt Moriartywalked once. In fact, Westfield pitcherUkrainskyj encountered problemswhen he hit Brisgell to start the sec-ond inning and followed with a walkto Moriarty.

Coach Rabinowitz walked to the

Cranford Baseball 12s EdgeWF Blue, 4-3, in N.P. Semis

By DAVID B. CORBINSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Boasting the best record in the en-tire St. Bart’s Oldtimers Men’s Soft-ball League, St. Patrick showed nosigns of a let up by pounding St.David, 18-5, at Jerseyland Field inScotch Plains on July 25. Nursing a6-3 lead after four innings, the Pat’s“Big Green Machine” came very alivein the fifth and sixth innings to splat-ter a blitz of rocket shots deep into theoutfield to take full control of thegame.

Jack Kennedy, who scored twice,led the Pats’ 25-hit pelting, going 3-for-4 with a three-run homer and an

RBI single. Gus Alvarez added a soloblast and an RBI double, while KenMiller went 3-for-4 with three runsscored and two RBI. Kevin Spellman(2 doubles), Al Betau (triple) andMarty Bernstein each went 3-for-5with two RBI. Scott Curtis had a pairof singles, doubled, scored twice andhad an RBI. Kevin St. Onge singledtwice and scored three times.

However, softball was not the onlysport played. Tumbling and stum-bling also came into play as Curtismade a great catch in center and fin-ished it off with a backward roll andJim Killeen, who had a two-run doubleand a single, stumbled at first, second

and third bases.“I just needed home (base) to

stumble for the cycle,” commentedKilleen.

Killeen did score a run withoutstumbling but had another chanceand fouled out.

“At least, we didn’t have to dustyou off for that one,” said teammateand pitcher Keith Gibbons, who con-tributed a single and an RBI.

St. David totaled 15 hits and DaveHill rapped a pair of doubles and scoredonce. Jeff Friedlander drilled a two-run double, Ken Blaes (RBI) and BobParidiso (double) both went 2-for-2,

By FRED LECOMTESpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

The fifth-seeded Cranford 12-year-old baseball team pulled off a stun-ning, 4-3 victory over the top-seededWestfield White “B” Division whenSteve Paglieri rapped an RBI doublein the final inning in the New Provi-dence League playoff semifinals atGumbert Field in Westfield on July 25.

Cranford’s Danny Cruz pitchednearly two innings, hit two batters,walked three, struck out two and al-lowed one hit. Reliever Troy Kettlerfanned 10 batters, gave up two hitsand walked two. Westfield Blue starterBradley Norris tossed four innings,allowed five hits, struck out four andwalked two. Reliever Mark Lazzarottiallowed two hits, walked two andfanned one.

“It was a very tight game up untilthat last inning. We missed opportu-nities and left guys on base. If acouple of those guys scored, the re-sult may have been a little different.Unfortunately our bats did not comealive when they needed to. Give creditto Cranford. They played a stronggame. We beat them twice before butthey came ready to play,” saidWestfield Head Coach Anthony

Cavallo, who added, “Norris has beenour workhorse all year long. He’spitched tremendously throughout theseason and today it was no different.He’s the type of kid that wants to beon the mound whenever he gets thechance. Mark Lazzarotti pitched very,very well those last two innings.”

Defensively, Blue Devil catcherMarc Cavallo slapped the tag on tworunners in the second inning and heldon to three foul tips for outs.

“He’s been a tremendous backstopfor us and he was on today. He haskept the ball in front and caught foultips time-and-time again in criticalsituations,” said coach Cavallo.

Shortstop Justin Slavin wiped outtwo runners heading home with thebases loaded in the second inning andmade a good read on a steaming linerin the fifth. Third baseman MattLazzarotti slapped on a timely tag inthe fifth and Nick Mennona made agreat catch in centerfield in the sixth.

“Very, very nice plays by Slavin.Bases loaded, infield in, two ballslined to him and he throws them out atthe plate,” said coach Cavallo.

Cranford plated two runs in the topof the first. Rich Larkin singled andCorey Birch uncorked an RBI sac fly

to right. Kettler tripled to right andscored on a misguided throw to third.

In the bottom of the inning,

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David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The TimesPULLING OFF A BUNT SINGLE…Owen Bartok plunks a bunt single to fuel a five-run fifth inning that put the WestfieldWhite firmly in the driver’s seat in the semifinal game against Millburn.

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The TimesNOT QUITE GETTING TO FIRST ON TIME…St. David’s Jerry Miccolis does not get to first base before St. Patrick firstbaseman Jim Killeen receives the throw from shortstop Al Betau.

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St. Bart’s Oldtimers Men’sSoftball League Standings:

ANGELS DIVISION:(As of July 25:)

TEAM W L PctSt. Patrick 12 5 .706St. Luke 9 6 .600St. Anne 9 7 .563St. Jude 9 8 .529St. Joseph 8 9 .471

SAINTS DIVISION:TEAM W L PctSt. David 9 7 .563St. Anthony 9 8 .529St. Aloysius 8 8 .500St. Matthew 4 11 .267St. Stephen 4 12 .250

St. Anne 15, St. Anthony 11St. Anne posted four runs in the

fifth and two in the sixth. AnniesKeith Middleton went 3-for-4, in-cluding a home run, and ChrisGiordano homered, singled andscored three runs. Joe McEvoy was2-for-3 and Frank Chupko, StevePolak and Frank DeFaria added twohits apiece. Jack Ley (5-for-5, 3doubles, HR) and Lou Messano(double, HR), Brian Mahoney, RussVoorhees, Bob Cummo and BryanPantano added two hits apiece.St. Jude 15, St. Aloysius 12

Jude blasted seven runs in the fifthinning and three in the seventh. KarlGrossmann led St. Jude with fourhits, while Ed Villaverde added threemore, including a double and a triple.Paul Newton had three hits, includinga home run. Bill Aumenta (3-for-5,HR), Art Hobble (3-for-4, triple) andTim Deegan with two hits and threeruns led St. Al.St. Aloysius 8, St. Joseph 5

Billy Aumenta doubled in the sixth,Kevin Woodring received a question-able intentional walk and TomBaldowski ripped a single to seal thedeal for St. Aloysius. Aumenta alsohomered and Art Hobble had mul-tiple hits. St. Joe’s Ron Labin had twohits.St. Patrick 18, St. David 5

See exclusive storySt. Jude 21, St. Anthony 6

St. Jude’s Tom Straniero, JoeDeChiaro and Damon Roth (HR,double) were a perfect 4-for-4 each.Harry Hopler added three hits, includ-ing a home run, while John Chupkowent 3-for-3. For St. Anthony, LouMessano went 3-for-4, while OJSimpson and Jack Ley each added acouple of hits and a home run.

and Brian Williams tapped a pair ofsingles. Dan Nigro, Dave Rothenberg,George Gracia and Phil Appelbaumeach singled and scored a run.

Without a doubt, the catch of theevening was made by Gracia off ashot to deep center by Spellman in theseventh inning. Just a few years ear-lier, a house stood in the area whereGracia made his over the head snag.While playing third, Bernsteingrabbed a grounder, touched thirdand fired to first for a double play.Rothenberg and Miller each made afine putout at first base for their re-spective teams.

Friedlander’s slashing two-rundouble to leftfield gave the Daves a 2-0 lead entering the top of the secondbut Miller poked an RBI single andKilleen cracked a two-run doublebefore stumbling unsafely into thirdto give the Pats a 3-2 lead.

“We’re right back in it,” shoutedGibbons.

St. Onge added, “Let’s play somedefense now. That’s all!”

Blaes tied the score with an RBIsingle in the second but St. Pat scoreda run in the third on Spellman’s sac-rifice fly and two more in the fourthon Miller’s RBI single and Alvarez’sRBI double.

In the meantime, while on themound, Gibbons noticed somethingsuspicious.

“Who gave me the Thunder Heat?”he said. After the umpire switchedsoftballs, Gibbons explained, “It’s notthe ball we use in this league. It’s ajuiced ball.”

While St. David failed to scoreruns in innings three, four and five,the Pats tallied three runs in the fifthand put the St. David “Men in Black”in a trance in the sixth when theyplated nine runs on 10 hits, whichincluded Alvarez’s solo blast andKennedy’s three-run homer.

Nigro singled and scored in thesixth for St. David and Hill doubledand scored on Lou Blau’s grounder toshort in the seventh.St. Patrick 031 239 0 18St. David 210 001 1 5Cranford Baseball 12s Edge

WF Blue, 4-3, in N.P. SemisCONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Westfield’s Brendan Smith walkedand Tyler Bowman unloaded a two-run home run over the centerfielder’shead to even the game at 2-2.

“Tremendous hit! We needed thatspark. Just a perfect, perfect shot! Hehustled around the bases and gave usan opportunity to get our heads backinto the game and think positive,”said coach Cavallo.

Westfield took a 3-2 lead in thesecond. Norris took one for his team.Frank Pinney and Slavin each drewwalks to load the pods. Next, MattAchaubault took the second pitch tohis body, sending Norris home for thescore.

The Cougars growled back with arun in the third. Larkin singled and

scored on Kettler’s RBI single. TheBlue threatened in the fourth whenBowman lined a long single to left,Davis Kane unleashed a standupdouble to center and Matt Lazzarottiwalked to load the bases. Kettler,however, fanned the next two batters.

Cranford plated the go-ahead runin the sixth when Brandon Chenwalked and scooted home onPaglieri’s double to center.

“We’re a hitting team. We’vemercied a number of teams in manyof our games. We had a five-day lay-off and maybe the bats got a littlestale for this game,” concluded coachCavallo.Cranford 201 001 4Westfield Blue 210 000 3

Westfield 9s Erupt in 5th, TopMillburn N. J. All-Stars, 6-0


mound to offer some advise. Fromthere, Ukrainskyj fanned the nextthree batters.

“I said there’s a lot of pressure butwe have one game, two games left allyear. If you are not going to have funand enjoy yourself, I have 10 kids outhere who want to do it,” said coachRabinowitz. “He said, ‘You knowcoach, I’m going to have fun and I’mgoing to strike out the next threekids.’ We try to work inside, outside,up and down. When he hit his spot, hewas basically unhittable.”

Westfield scored a run in the fourth.Jack Neiswenter was hit by a pitch,advanced to second on a wild pitchand stole third. After Victor Cruz drewa walk, Ukrainskyj, who was 2-for-2,looped an RBI single over second.Westfield’s five-run inning began withRabinowitz’s single to right. OwenBartok laid down a bunt single andJames Friel (2-for-2) singled. PatrickChirichella added an RBI infieldgrounder and Ian Mueller followedwith a bunt single. LaCorte openedthe flood gates with a booming three-

run triple to the right field fence andNeiswenter hopped an RBI singlepast short.

“After five innings, it was a 1-0game. In the fifth, we put a couple ofhits together then our big stick, MattLaCorte, put one to the fence. Youcould just see everybody take a nicebreath and say, ‘Okay, we got this,’ ”said coach Rabinowitz.

“Both teams hit well throughoutthe whole season but Westfield hit theball much better today,” said coachDibble. “Timely hitting was what thegame was all about. One of the thingsthat you have to do is minimize thatbig inning. Four or five runs is a bighurdle to come back against a teamthat’s going to play good defense andhas sound pitching.”

Matt Jacob, Connor Kirkwood,Drew Pickard, Jeff Rosenthal, BrianLannino and Jack Hlavacek also par-ticipated for Millburn. Arthur Xaioand Phil Zanfagna played in the out-field for Westfield.Millburn 000 000 0Westfield 000 15x 6

See photos of Sports:on www.goleader.comWestfield/Millburn 9 Baseball

Westfield/Cranford 12sSt. Pat/St. David Softball

Westfield/Union 10 BaseballClick – All Photos on right

Click – Photos on left – Scroll

Union County Senior 50+Softball League Standings:50+ DIVISION A (as of July 27):

TEAM W LBare Necessities 19 1Buffy’s Tavern 17 2Awnings Galore 11 9American Legion/LLG 8 13D&K Associates 7 14Iceman’s Karaoke 5 14

50+ DIVISION B:TEAM W LSMC 18 3Re/Max 10 11KMD Tuning 10 11Northwestern Mutual 9 12Associated Auto Parts 5 16The Office 4 17

SUPER SENIORS DIVISION:TEAM W LCreative Industries 11 2Kilkenny House 10 3Commerce Bank 9 5Associated Auto Silver 2 10LA Law 2 14

Creative 12, LA Law 11LA Law scored six in the top of the

seventh, tying the game. Creativeanswered with two outs when KarlGrossmann singled and TomLombardi doubled courtesy runnerBob Failla in with the winning run.Commerce 9, Kilkenny 6

Commerce scored three runs in thetop of the seventh and held on. Felix

Vales and Rich Polonitza had threehits each for Commerce. John Silva,Fred DiMartino and the returningFrank “Frankie Tags” Tartaglione ledthe Bankers’ defense.SMC 10, The Office 7

The Office scored three runs in thetop of the first, but slowed down. BillHinkle had two hits and two RBI, andRich Goski hit a two-run homer in thesixth to draw the red shirts within two.Bare Necessities 21, Iceman’sKaraoke 2

Bare Necessities pounded out 28hits, led by Steve Ferro, Tony Radice,Frank Pepe, Tony Williams, EdBelford and Brian Williams with threehits each.KMD Tuning 15, Re/Max 14

In a seesaw game that had four leadchanges in the last two innings, KMDcrossed the plate twice in the bottomof the seventh to win.Northwestern 11, Associated 4

Insurer Pete Osborn hit a grandslam in the first inning. TomRomanowicz and Rich Grossberg hadthree hits each. Jack Helfrich had twohits for Associated Auto Parts.American Legion 7, D&K 6

The Legionnaires triumphed innine innings.Buffy’s Tavern 15, Awnings Galore 7

BASEBALL ALL-STARS…Six Westfield boys participated in the Central JerseyBaseball League 10U All-Star game held at Krausche Field in North Plainfield onJuly 11. Pictured, left to right, are: Chris Rinaldi, Owen Colwell, Vin Difilippo,Eric Varakian, Tyler Roth and Rowan Oberman.

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David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The TimesMAKING THE PLAY TO FIRST…Westfield White second baseman ZachRabinowitz flicks an underhanded toss to first in time to make the putout.Fred K. Lecomte for The Westfield Leader and The Times

A VERY BIG HIT FOR TYLER…12-year old Blue Devil second baseman TylerBowman proudly digs in at home plate after blasting his two-run home run to deepcenterfield in the first inning. Bowman later cracked a single in his two at bats.


BREAKING RECORDS…On July 19,the Willow Grove Barracudas beatHighland Swim Club, making theirrecord 4-0. Seven records were bro-ken, including the 15/18 100-meter in-dividual medley by Scott Marino at1:10.13 and the girls 9/10 25-meter freestyle by Amanda Banasiak, pictured,at 15.25.

DiFILIPPO SHINES ON MOUND, REAPS 2 DBLS, 3 RBI

WF White Trims Union, 9-3,In CJBL 10s Semifinals

By FRED LECOMTESpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Heightened intensity was evidentwhen the Westfield White 10-year-old baseball team burst forward witha five-run first inning then paced it-self to roll past a good Union team, 9-3, in the Central Jersey BaseballLeague semifinals at Gumbert Fieldon July 26.

Westfield received a strong pitch-ing performance from three of itspitching aces, Vincent Difilippo, ChrisRinaldi and Hopper Murray. In fourinnings, Difilippo tossed a five-hitter,fanned one batter and walked one inhis 52 throws. Rinaldi sat down allthree batters in the fifth inning andMurray closed out the game with ascoreless one-hit performance.

Difilippo, who bashed a pair ofdoubles, walked and had three RBI,led the Blue Devils’ 12-hit-attack.Chris Boutsikaris powered a triple,singled in a run and crossed the platein his three trips to the plate. NickMele whacked a two-run single. BrettRobertshaw hammered a RBI doubleand Murray delivered an RBI single.Eric Varakian doubled, Chris Rinaldi,Devin Anderson, Chris Varano and

Tommy Summers each singled andScott Tupper worked two walks.

The Farmers totaled six hits andIsiah Guzman led with two hits andtwo runs scored in his two trips to theplate. Mike DePalma went 2-for-2,Josh Stern rapped a double and BobbySloane singled and scored a run.

“Difilippo was really clutch for ustoday. He came out and threw fourreal solid innings and he let his de-fense do the job behind him. Theymade some unbelievable plays.Rinaldi came in, threw an inning andkept them off the board and Hopperclosed it out in the sixth. Behind thedish, Mele and Anderson really caughta solid game,” said Westfield HeadCoach Joe Rinaldi.

The Farmers harvested a run in thetop of the first inning on Stern’s RBIdouble but Westfield came out andtook advantage of the Union pitcher’scontrol problems, combining four hits,one double and three walks to tallyfive runs in the bottom of the inning.

“We were down by one and I toldour guys, ‘We have to be aggressive atthe plate, smarter bats’. We looked forour pitches and when we got them, wedrove them. We put five up and that I

think that really helped us mentally tostay in the game. We kind of set thetone from there on,” said coach Rinaldi.

Westfield added a run in the secondwhen Varakian ripped a double tocenter and crossed the dish onDifilippo’s double. Union answeredwith a run in the fourth when DePalmahopped a single to center and scoredon Guzman’s single.

In the bottom of the fourth,Westfield tallied two more runs to itstotal on Difilippo’s two-run double toleft. The final run came in the fifthwhen Boutsikaris hammered his tripleto center and headed home safely ona wild pitch.

“Offensively, it is a deep lineup,one thru twelve you can count onguys to come through in the clutch.Difilippo did it on the mound and didit with his bat. Boutsikaris came upwith a huge hit, while Summers andMurray contributed,” said coachRinaldi. “It was nice to see Hoppercoming out. He really had some goodswings lately. Some of the ballshaven’t fallen but today they did andthat was key for us.”Union 100 101 3Westfield 510 21x 9

D. Blair Corbin’D. Blair Corbin’D. Blair Corbin’D. Blair Corbin’D. Blair Corbin’sssss

WWWWWalk Down Memory Lalk Down Memory Lalk Down Memory Lalk Down Memory Lalk Down Memory Laneaneaneaneane

RaidersBlue Devils

From the archives of The WestfieldLeader and The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times – www.goleader.com

July 28, 2003: The Scotch Plains16U Cobras girls softball team cappeda successful season by winning, 12-2, over Westfield in the ParkwayLeague championship game. CobraElaine Piniat pitched the seven in-nings for the win. Jessica Guerrierowent the distance for Westfield. Me-lissa Sette had two singles and a walk.Taylor Cianciatta rapped a two-rundouble and an RBI single.

July 29, 2004: Hunter Avenue sankthe Midway express with a salvo ofsix runs in the first inning, then cruisedto a 9-5 victory in Game 1 of theplayoffs of the Fanwood Old Men’sSoftball Association at Forest RoadPark. Hunter slugger Steve Kaminsused the “thunder stick” to poke anRBI single and crunch a monumental330' shot into parts unknown.

July 27, 2001: The Westfield 10-year-old baseball team won theMiddle Atlantic Region Champion-ship by beating Marlton, NJ, 6-2, inNewark, Del. to earn the right play inthe inaugural Babe Ruth World Se-ries, featuring 10 teams, in Vincennes,Ind, on August 3. Matt Munizzi had apair of RBI singles, Mike Kent rappedan RBI double and Dave Pusar pokedan RBI single. Pitcher Todd Saunders

picked up the victory.July 30, 2000: Club 40, truly re-

laxed after zooming to a 9-0 lead bythe fourth inning, held off a diminu-tive late-inning sparkle by the OldStars to win, 11-4, in JCC SoftballLeague action at Tamaques Park. AlanKaufman clobbered a two-run homer.

July 29, 1999: The Scotch Plains-Fanwood 11’s won the battle of thetribes, defeating the West CaldwellChiefs, 15-12, in seven innings, in thechampionship game of the JohnFiorino Memorial Baseball Tourna-ment at Gumbert Field in Westfield.Raider Kyle Gates slammed twosingles, a double and a triple andscored four times, while collectingthree RBI, and Dom Price had threehits and scored three runs, whileknocking in two runs.

July 24, 1998: Angels Divisionleader St. Jude erupted for nine runsin the fourth inning and held off a laterally by Saints Division leader St.Michael to pull off an 11-10 victoryin St. Bart’s Oldtimers SoftballLeague action at Jerseyland Field.The “Gang Green” St. Jude boostedits record to 14-1. Tom Rutkowski,Tony Perfilio, Joe Romash, Joe Dolan,Fran Lienhard, Lou DeChristofaroand Bob Elmi drove in runs, and JeffFriedlander whacked a two-run singlein the inning.

David B. Corbin (July 28, 1999 files) for The Westfield Leader and The TimesPOOF! MARKS IS ON THE MARK AT HOME…Lee Marks of the Jolly Trolleycreates a huge dust cloud as he plows into home base in the sixth inning asChecchio Chiropractic catcher Dave Duelks waits for the ball. Checchio Chiro-practic defeated the Jolly Trolley, 4-3.

WF Rec SucceedsWith Basketball CampUnder the direction of Neil Horne,

the Westfield RecreationDepartment’s Basketball Camp justconcluded with 60 boys and girlsparticipating. Daily instruction ondribbling and ball handling, shoot-ing, passing and defense was empha-sized, as well as daily contests andgames.CONTEST WINNERS AND AWARDS:

1. Most Improved – Junior Division:Lauren Sgro, International Division:Devyn Heinzerlinig and NicholasMcLane; College Division: AidenHamilton.2. Mr./Ms. Hustle – Junior Division:Melina McDevitt and Dan Wilkinison;International Division: Carly McDevittand Cameron Chin; College Division:Marissa Cafaro and Chris Romano.3. Best Defense – Junior Division:Allison Mattesich and Cory Billings;International Division: HopeRothenberg and Mike Ferraro; CollegeDivision: Julie Penzack and Chris Pettit.4. Best Rebounder – Junior Division:Amanda Wisniewski and Michael Birle;International Division: Rachel Mattesichand Tom Reilly; College Division: OliviaManning and Jackson Boyle.5. Best Ball Handler – Junior Division:Matt Manning and Jason Lee; Interna-tional Division: Emily Greaney and WillSchwartz; College Division: UnaHeinzerling and Jon Lee.6. Best All-Around – Junior Division:Kaitlin MacKin and Marck Natiello; In-ternational Division: Olivia Luzzi andOwen Bartok; College Division: KelcieEhler and Tyler Bowman.7). Hot Shot contest winners – DanWilkinson, Mark Natiello, Lauren Sgro,Mike Ferraro, Emily Greaney, VeronicaGrycan, Chris Lazzarotti, UnaHeinzirling and John Birle.8. Intensity Lay-Up winners – DanWilkinson, Mark Natiello, Olivia Luzzi,Owen Bartok, John Birle, ChrisLazzarotti and Una Heinzirling.

Fred K. Lecomte for The Westfield Leader and The TimesNAILED AT HOME PLATE… 10 year-old Farmer Corey Birch fell victim to a major league throw to the plate by shortstopJustin Slavin and the tag-out by Nick Mele. The two Devils stars repeated the feat once again on the next play. Westfielddefeated Union, 9-3, in the CJBL semis.

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This distinctive home reflects the sellers special attention to detail and outstanding qualitythroughout. This very special 4 bedroom home features radiant heated floors on the firstlevel, custom cabinetry in the kitchen, formal dining room with a view of the beautiful tree-lined property, gracious living room with fireplace, cozy den with wood burning fireplace.Master Bedroom with full bath, laundry room, wall to wall closet space throughout, anexpansive family room. All this just moments from the picturesque Watchung Reservationand the Trailside Nature Center. Close to major highways, transportation to NYC, shoppingand the finest dining that this wonderful community has to offer. MLS # 2501951

SCOTCH PLAINS OPEN HOUSE: SUN 8/3 1-5PM $649,000This large Split Level home situated on over an acre of manicured property on the South Sideof Scotch Plains offers spacious rooms and flexible family space. A heated in ground pool justoff the patio invite summer entertainment, while the private rear grounds are ideal for familyfun and games. Enjoy the screened porch with ceiling fan and natural brick wall that offers atranquil setting for relaxation or summer dinners. A picture window and fireplace with a slateraised hearth add charm to the living room. The ground floor has a convenient half bath anda family room with glass sliding doors to the patio. The Master Bedroom has a full bath, awalk in closet and ceiling fan. Three additional bedrooms and a full bath complete the secondlevel. There are hardwood floors throughout the home as well as a large finished basement, eatin kitchen, two car garage and laundry room. Perfect for a large and growing family nearshopping, excellent schools and transportation. DIRECTIONS: Cooper or Raritan to Ashbrookto Lenape #1069. MLS #2552207

New Home to be built on a private spectacular setting. This gem will boast 5 Bedrooms 4.5Baths, Formal Living Room and Dining Room, large Family Room, and beautiful front porch.Master Bedroom with walk in closets, sitting area, and spa like bath retreat will be breathtaking. Hardwood floors with custom inlays will complement the hand crafter millworkthroughout this one of a kind estate. Call today for more details and work with the builder tomake this home tailored for your needs. MLS # 2546044

SCOTCH PLAINS CENTER HALL COLONIAL $899,900Stunning two year old 3,500 sq ft Center Hall Colonial, quality crafted by premier areabuilder Michael Mahoney. Elegant details, fine appointments, hardwood flooring, 9ft ceilingheights (1st floor) and open, spacious floor plan highlight this home. Situated in a cul-de-sacneighborhood of newer houses, this home features a welcoming front porch and gracious twostory foyer. Gourmet eat-in-kitchen, complete with a center island, stainless steel appliances,granite counters and tumbled marble backsplash. Grand family room with a cathedral ceilingand fireplace, office, laundry/mud room showcase the 1st floor plan. Magnificent masterbedroom suite with sitting room includes a master bath with whirlpool tub, stall shower anddouble vanity, his/her walk-in closets, plus 3 additional Bedrooms and a full bath. Slidersfrom the kitchen lead to a private backyard with paver patio. A two car attached garage andlarge unfinished basement complete this home. MLS # 2550249

ELEGANT HOMES BY RALPH RAPUANO


PUBLIC NOTICEUNION COUNTY BOARD

OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERSNOTICE OF CONTRACT AWARD

Date Adopted: 07/24/08Public Notice is hereby given that the

Union County Board of Chosen Freehold-ers has awarded a contract without com-petitive bidding as a Professional Servicepursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a)(i). Thiscontract and the resolution authorizing it isavailable for public inspection in the Officeof the Clerk of the Board.

RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0694(amending Resolution: 2008-0124)AWARDED TO: Strategic Media

Group, Union City, New JerseySERVICES: Increasing the contract

amount for media consulting/marketingservices.

COSTS: $38,080 for a new total amountof $136,080

Nicole L. DiRado, Clerkof the Board of Chosen Freeholders

1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.42





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0678(amending Resolution No. 2008-116)AWARDED TO: Schenck, Price,

Smith, & King, Morristown, New JerseySERVICES: special counsel in the mat-

ter entitled Estate of Donald Davis v. UC,et al.

COSTS: for an additional sum of $5,000for a new total contract amount not toexceed $35,000


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.93





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0677(amending Resolution No. 2008-424)AWARDED TO: Schenck, Price,

Smith, & King, Morristown, New JerseySERVICES: special counsel in the mat-

ter entitled Robert Travisano v. UC, et al.COSTS: for an additional sum of $2,500

for a new total contract amount not toexceed $47,500


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.42





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0676( amending Resolution No. 2008-175)

AWARDED TO: Trenk, Dispasquale,Webster, Della Fera & Sodano, WestOrange, New Jersey

SERVICES: special counsel in the mat-ter entitled Eduardo Tapari v. UC, et al.

COSTS: for an additional sum of $5,000for a new total contract amount not toexceed $30,000


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.93





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0672AWARDED TO: Matrix New World,

East Hanover, New JerseySERVICES: Professional engineering

services remediation and monitoring ofthe Union County Public Works Facility,Scotch Plains, New Jersey

COSTS:$60,000Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk

of the Board of Chosen Freeholders1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $20.40





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0671AWARDED TO: The Louis Berger

Group, Morristown, New JerseySERVICES: to design and manage the

construction of modernization and im-provements to the intersection of DiamondHill Road/ New Providence Road (CR655)and Valley Road (CR527) in BerkeleyHeights, New Jersey

COSTS: in the amount of $89,970.Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk






RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0662AWARDED TO: Catholic Community

Services, Cranford, New JerseySERVICES: to provide an alcohol and

drug treatment program for the femaleinmate population at the Union County Jail

PERIOD: January 1, 2008-December31, 2008

COSTS: in an amount not to exceed$81,332


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.93





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0660(amending Resolution No. 2008-167)AWARDED TO: Kanen Psychologi-

cal Services, PA, Ridgewood, New Jer-sey

SERVICES: Psychological evaluationServices

COSTS: in an additional amount of$5,000 for a new total contract amount notto exceed $18,000.


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.93





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0657(amending Resolution No. 942-2005)AWARDED TO: Trinitas Hospital,

Elizabeth, New JerseySERVICES: to provide individual therapy

sessions to victims of sexual assault in theUnion County

PERIOD: July 1, 2008-June 30, 2009COSTS: at a rate of $75 per hour total-

ing $3,000 per month for a total amountof $36,000


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $22.95




Union County Board of Chosen Freehold-ers has awarded a contract without com-petitive bidding pursuant to N.J.S.A.40A:11-5(M) and in accordance with therequirements for extraordinary,unspecificable services. This contract andthe resolution authorizing it are availablefor public inspection in the Office of theClerk of the Board.

RESOLUTION No: 2008-0641AWARED TO: Life Insurance Com-

pany of North America, Bloomfield,Connecticut

SERVICE: Renewing the Accident andHealth Insurance for Watchung Stables

PERIOD: July 1, 2008- June 30, 2009COSTS: in an amount not to exceed

$11,203 (No increase)

AWARED TO: Hartford Bond Center,Rockaway, New Jersey

SERVICE: Renewing the Bond forLawrence Caroselli

PERIOD: June 28, 2008-June 27, 2009COSTS: in an amount not to exceed

$1,644. (No increase)

AWARED TO: Hartford Bond Center,Rockaway, New Jersey

SERVICE: Renewing the Public OfficialBond for Arlene Verniero

PERIOD: June 28, 2008-June 29, 2009CPSTS: in an amount not to exceed

$100. (No increase)Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk






RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0630AWARDED TO: Speech & Hearing

Associates, Westfield, New JerseySERVICES: to provide speech and lan-

guage pathology services for the resi-dents/patients at Runnells SpecializedHospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008- July 31, 2009COSTS: in an the amount of $85,000


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.42





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0628AWARDED TO: England Orthopedics,

Inc., Avenel, New JerseySERVICES: to provide prosthetic and

orthotic services for the patients at RunnellsSpecialized Hospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008- July 31, 2009COSTS: in an amount not to exceed

$30,000Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk






RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0629AWARDED TO: Speech & Hearing

Associates, Westfield, New JerseySERVICES: to provide audiology ser-

vices for the residents/patients at RunnellsSpecialized Hospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008- July 31, 2009COSTS: in an the amount of $10,000


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $20.40





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0627AWARDED TO: Somerset Prosthetic

& Orthotics, Inc., Bound Brook, NewJersey

SERVICES: to provide prosthetic andorthotic services for the patients at RunnellsSpecialized Hospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008-July 31, 2009COSTS: in an amount not to exceed

$30,000Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk






RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0625AWARDED TO: Erin Pojanowksi, PA-

C., Hospitalist Associates, Summit, NewJersey

SERVICES: to provide professionalmedical services to the patients/residentsat Runnells Specialized Hospital

PERIOD: September 1, 2008- August31, 2009

COSTS: (This is a fee for serviceagreement at no cost to the County)


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $22.95





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0619AWARDED TO: Vashdeo Harjani, MD,

Hospital Associates, Summit, New Jer-sey

SERVICES: to provide professionalmedical services to the residents/patientsat Runnells Specialized Hospital

PERIOD: September 1, 2008-August31, 2009



1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $22.95PUBLIC NOTICE

UNION COUNTY BOARDOF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS

NOTICE OF CONTRACT AWARDDate Adopted: 07/24/08

Public Notice is hereby given that theUnion County Board of Chosen Freehold-ers has awarded a contract without com-petitive bidding as a Professional Servicepursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a)(i). Thiscontract and the resolution authorizing it isavailable for public inspection in the Officeof the Clerk of the Board.

RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0618AWARDED TO: Samir Patel, MD, Hos-

pital Associates, Summit, New JerseySERVICES: to provide professional

medical services to the residents/patientsat Runnells Specialized Hospital

PERIOD: September 1, 2008-August31, 2009



1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.93





RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0617AWARDED TO: Jacqueline Napper,

PsyD. PsyPharm, Plainfield, New Jer-sey

SERVICES: to provide professional psy-chology services for the Residents/pa-tients at Runnells Specialized Hospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008-July 31, 2009COSTS: in the amount of $3,600.


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $21.42PUBLIC NOTICE

UNION COUNTY BOARDOF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS

NOTICE OF CONTRACT AWARDDate Adopted: 07/24/08

Public Notice is hereby given that theUnion County Board of Chosen Freehold-ers has awarded a contract without com-petitive bidding as a Professional Servicepursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:11-5(1)(a)(i). Thiscontract and the resolution authorizing it isavailable for public inspection in the Officeof the Clerk of the Board.

RESOLUTION NO: 2008-0616AWARDED TO: Joann Duffy, RRT,

CCRC, Springfield, New JerseySERVICES: to provide respiratory

therapy care services for the residents/patients at Runnells Specialized Hospital

PERIOD: August 1, 2008-July 31, 2009COSTS: in the amount of $13,200.


1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $20.40

Westfield Silver Nips Blue, 5-4,In RVBL 8-Year-Old Playoffs

GREAT GAME…Westfield Silver 8s topped Westfield Blue, 5-4, in the playoffs.Pictured, left to right, are: front row; Ben Strauss, Bryce Dannevig, Matt Meusel,Devin McLane, Ryan Chirichella, John Humiston and Sean Taylor; middle row,John O’Hern, Cory Hiltz, Chris Marner, Matt Bromberg, Matt Barmakian, AlexApostolos and Michael Birle; back row, Coaches John Apostolos, J.D. Dannevig,Lee Taylor, John Humiston and Jason McLane.

Westfield Silver 10s FinishFirst Season with 8-6 Record

WINNING SEASON…Westfield Silver 10Us celebrate their winning season.Pictured, from top, left to right, are: Head Coach Jeff Rembisz and AssistantCoach Ping Liu, Jesse Liu, Drew Russo, Billy Fitzpatrick, Zack Kelly, JohnnyLink, Devin Zrebiec, J. Mack Rembisz, Connor Russell, Alex Knepper, MattMulvey, Tyler Faris, Dillon Scott and Ben Fleschler. Missing from photo: MattMacik, Callaghan Dwyer and Asstistant Coach Joe Dwyer.

The Westfield Silver 8-year-oldsedged their cross-town rivals,Westfield Blue, 5-4, in the first roundof the Raritan Valley Baseball Leagueplayoffs in a game that began onTuesday, July 22, at Tamaques Park,and due to weather, finished threedays later.

Westfield Blue scored first, butWestfield Silver tied it up in the sec-ond as Matt Bromberg singled, stoletwo bases and scored on a base hit.

Silver pitcher Cory Hiltz shut downBlue in the bottom of the inning, withhelp from infielders John O’Hern andJohn Humiston, and catcher MattBarmakian.

Silver scored three more in thefourth. Ben Strauss knocked in ChrisMarner, Devin McLane knocked inStrauss and Sean Taylor drove homeRyan Chirichella. Westfield Blue gottwo back, but thanks to BryceDannevig’s fielding at short, found

themselves down 4-3 when the gamewas postponed.

After a scoreless fifth, Silver addedanother run, as Alex Apostolos drewa key walk. In their last licks, Bluethreatened, but Silver pitcher MattMeusel shut down the heart of thelineup. Michael Birle made a slidingcatch in foul territory alongside firstto preserve the victory.

“It was a great game,” said Silvercoach Lee Taylor. “I’m excited forthe boys.”

Westfield Silver then went on todefeat Warren, 10-9, to advance to thesemifinals.

Westfield Blue players were CoryBillings, Jack Mislinski, AndyEliades, Robbie Faktor, LeeBeauchamp, Graham Studwell, JackJohnson, Johnny Sickles, ChristopherO’Connor, Mark Schiavo, TannerDevin, Miles Brancatella, BrettDenner and Peyton Schlett.

The Westfield Silver 10U baseballteam, coached by Jeff Rembisz, JoeDwyer and Ping Liu, finished its in-augural season with an 8-6 record,including wins in four out of its lastfive games. Silver’s season ended in atight second round, 5-4, playoff lossto Westfield Blue.

The highlight of Silver’s seasonwas a 3-2 victory over top-rankedKenilworth in the first round of theplayoffs. Kenilworth had mercied(10+ runs) Silver twice previously.With superb pitching from Jesse Liuand Zack Kelly, Kenilworth was heldto just two hits. Connor Russell, BillyFitzpatrick, Dillon Scott and catcherBen Fleschler, who made an inning-ending throw to second to nab a speedyrunner, helped defensively.

Alex Knepper started the game witha walk and scored the first run whenJohnny Link drew a bases-loaded walk.J. Mack Rembisz, Fleschler, Liu andDrew Russo added hits to giveWestfield two more runs. Kenilworthscored in the fourth and fifth innings,

but Zack Kelly closed it out by strikingout the side in the sixth.

“Our team was a bigger underdogthan the Giants were in the SuperBowl,” said coach Rembisz, “But theybelieved in themselves and they cameto play. The coaches and parents werereally proud of them.”

Against Westfield Blue, DevinZrebiec doubled and scoredKnepper’s single. Westfield Blue tooka 2-1 lead but Matt Macik made aninning-ending stab. Silver added tworuns two RBI singles from Rembiszand Fleschler and a hard groundoutby Zack Kelly.

Matt Mulvey, Drew Russo, DillonScott and Tyler Faris added strongbats in the game. Helping the team allseason with strong catching wasCallaghan Dwyer.

“It was a great season for mycoaches and myself because we sawso much improvement in all the play-ers throughout the summer, “ saidcoach Rembisz, “That’s what it’s allabout.”

UNDEFEATED, 5-0 SEASON…The Willow Grove Barracudas defeated CranfordSwim Club on July 26, to go undefeated for the second season in a row. The coaches(pictured, from left) Lindsay Hauptman, Mike Miller, Kate Kosenick and headCoach Christine Marino worked with the swimmers since early June. Manyrecords were broken this season due to a strong 9/10 girls group and Olympichopeful Scott Marino.

Golf Teaching Pro ExplainsThe Greenside Bunker Shot

By GARY OSTREGASpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

This greenside bunker shot is mostcommonly referred to as the sandshot. There are several important stepsto consider for its success.

1. Proper equipment: A 56-degreesand wedge with a wide flange (areaof the bottom of club) is best andpreferably with a minimum of 10degrees of bounce (angle of leadingedge to trailing edge of flange whenthe shaft is in the vertical position.) Itwould serve as the most versatilechoice. Additionally, a 60-degreewedge could be added for higher softerlanding shots.

2. Address position: Bury shoesinto sand past soles, slightly widerthan shoulder width and left of paral-lel to hole. Have plenty of knee bendwith weight more on left side. Ballposition should be under the left eye.Use a neutral grip position with clubopen.

Why bury your feet into sand? Totest the density of the sand and stabil-ity of your lower body to ensure con-sistency. Your natural swing motionwould bottom to the level of yoursoles, which are into the sand, thustaking the prescribed depth of divot.

3. Strategy for proper execution:Use a more vertical arm-swing mo-tion on the line of play, with mini-mum body rotation, staying flat-footed. The desired divot of sandshould be football shaped with the

sand and ball advancing towards flag(note: open face of club in picture). Ifdone well, you will hear a distinctivethump as the flange bounces and de-flects from digging excessively intothe sand. The ball should carry mostlyin the air to target then spin to theright.

4. Length of the swing: It should beconstant and 3/4 length. Vary the speedof the swing to judge length.

Gary Ostrega PGA, a Westfield resi-dent, is the Teaching Pro at the HyattHills Golf Complex in Clark. Lessonscan be made by appointment at (732)669-9100

Number-1 seed Melvin Diep won8-4 over the number 5 Tuyen Diep.Cristina Newsome also defeated Diep,10-2. Paul Newsome stopped Rich-ard Pardo (10-4), Azim Saifee (8-4)and Tuyen Diep (6-4, 6-3) to keep thenumber-3 spot. Robert Errazo stayedat number four with a 7-5, 6-0 winover Pardo. Tuyen Diep topped JoshuaSuri (10-4), Francis Adriaens (6-3, 6-3) and Weldon Chin (6-2, 6-2). Pardoremained the most active with 24matches played for the season.

The next reporting period ends onAugust 10 with the season ending onSeptember 1. Eight matches playedare needed to qualify for the playoff.Please report all match activity toRichard Pardo [email protected].

1. Mel Diep (7)* 25. Stu Gruskin(5)* 2. C. Newsome(7)* 26. David Ferio (9) 3. P. Newsome(8)* 27. Joe Donnolo(5) 4. Rob Errazo(6)* 28. Manny Erlich(1) 5. T. Diep (23)* 29. Mike Muroff (9) 6. Rich Pardo(24)* 30. Andy Cohen(1)* 7. Weldon Chin(15)* 31. C. Farella(10)* 8. Rich Stewart(4)* 32. F. Adriaens(8)* 9. Tom Bauer (4) 33. Andy Ross(14)*10. Ethan Krell(6) 34. G. Brown(3)*11. Vin Camuto(3) 35. Azim Saifee(3)*12. Tim Ko (14)* 36. M. Rappoport(3)*13. T. Bigosinski(10)* 37. Warren Friss(1)14. I. Bouchouev(9)*38. P. Magierski(1)15. Tyler Cusick(2)* 39. H. Williams(2)16. Steve Lee (4)* 40. Kevin Gapp(5)17. Mike Manders(3)* 41. B. Greenfield(1)18. Mike Gonella(4) 42. Zac Friss19. C. Wendel(16)* 43. Todd Krell20. Josh Suri(16)* 44. Rich Boland21. Vito Nisita(10)* 45. Mike Pastore22. E. Bronander(6)*46. M. Abbattista23. Rod North(3) 47. Sravan Emany24. D. Loffredo(9)* 48. Nate Weiss*denotes match played in current re-porting period( ) cumulative matches played

WTA Men’s Singles Tennis Ladder Told:

WTA Men’s MastersTennis Ladder Told:

The WTA ladder season Men’sMasters (50+) standings at the closeof the sixth reporting period, whichended July 27, are listed.

John Mancini stayed on top of theladder defeating Peter Lee. JoeDonnolo kept the second spot withwins over Chris Wendel and HenryWilliams. Lee moved up to third afterdefeating Mike McGlynn. Jim Oslislodefeated Wendel. Don Dohm dropsdue to inactivity. Lee was the mostactive with three matches.

1. John Mancini (6)*2. Joe Donnolo (13)*3. Peter Lee (9)*4. Mike McGlynn (10)*5. Jim Oslislo (8)*6. Chris Wendel (18)*7. Henry Williams (5)*8. Don Dohm (3)9. Brian Greenfield (1)No matches reported: Dewey

Rainville, Todd Krell( ) Matches played* match played in reporting period.Report matches played [email protected]

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The TimesHyatt Hills Golf Teaching Pro Gary Ostrega


CLASSIFIEDS

FREELANCERS WANTEDStrong, detail-oriented writerswith professional demeanorneeded to cover localgovernment meetings. Mustbe able to meet deadlines,know how to write a lead, andtake an active interest in theirbeats in order to develop newsstories. Please emailresume and clips to:

[email protected]

PHOTOGRAPHY

Event and family photographer tokeep your Soiree alive forever.Professional references. CallDave Samsky at (908) 693-0158Email: [email protected]

CHILDCARE NEEDED

Nannies - HousekeepersBabyNurses Needed

Live-in / -out - Full/Part-timeSolid References Required.

CALL (732) 972-4090www.absolutebestcare.com

If you don’t have time to clean,I will do it for you!

Reliable, reasonable rates.Good references. 5 years exp.

Call me! (973) 583-8997 or(973) 878-2181 Neide

NEIDE HOUSE CLEANING

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

WestfieldElm St. Professional Building400 Sq. Ft., Parking Available

Available Now$800 per month(201) 891-1130

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

WestfieldElm St. Professional Building1085 Sq. Ft. 2nd Fl, Parking,

Available August 1, 2008$2,695.00 per month

(201) 891-1130

AGENTS WANTED

Improve your quality of life!Consider a Career in Real Estate!Interviewing new and exp. agents

Corporate Training ProgramPrudential NJ Properties(908) 232-5664 ext. 103

Ask for Margie

MED. ASST. / VENIPUNCTURE

Immediate full-time opening insmall doctors office in Westfield.Experience at front desk as well.Contact Patty at (908) 232-1345or fax resume to (908) 232-1697.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Furnished and Unfurnishedapartments available in

Westfield. Leases can be asshort as 30 days long.

Please call Oakwood CorporateHousing at (800) 872-1090between 9:00am-5:00pm

Monday-Friday.Please ask for Dana.

HANDYMAN AVAILABLE

Handyman available for alltypes of jobs. Big and small.

(908) 294-2128Ask for Peter

HOUSE FOR SALE BY OWNER

Serene and private one acre lot(.97) backing up to the TamaquesPond/Park, 5 BR, 2.5 Baths,Circular Drive, $1,090,000. WillowGrove Road Cell: (908) 205-3471

HOME HEALTH CARE

Independent CaregiversAvailable

Free ReferralsTremendous Savings!

(609) 558-4672Serving NJ / NY

TODDLER CARE AVAILABLE

Childcare at the PresbyterianNursery School in Westfieldavailable in September forchildren born after February2007. Limited to one morningper week. $28.50 per class.Contact Time Out for ParentsDirector at: (908) 654-5157.

ANA HOUSE CLEANING

Responsible and honest person.I will clean your houseweekly or bi-weekly.

With references. Free estimates.Call Ana (973)573-7970

Thanks for call

HUGE YARD SALE

Sat., Aug 2nd, 9am - 3pmHH items, furniture, electronics,

clothes, toys69 Woodland Ave.

Fanwood(Rain Date: Aug 3rd)

DOG WALKING / FELINE CARE

Pick of the Litter, LLCInsured and Bonded

contact Rita LaBrutto at(908) 709-1079 or(908) 420-5580.

OFFICE SPACE

Beautiful new office in ScotchPlains for $795.00 incls telephone,internet. Ideal for professional.Visit havenexecutivesuites.comor call (908) 296-2142.

FOR SALE

New GE WCSR2090 washingmachine with factory warranty.Used four times. Asking $190.00.Must be picked up. Please call:

(908) 233-6604

HELP WANTED

Drivers: Local Oppty!Great Sal/Benefits.

Route Sales/Svc Rep.HS Grad, CDL-B a Plus.

[email protected](908) 791-9600

MEDICAL ASST / SECRETARY

Need MedicalAssistant / Secretary

for Full / Part-time, Bilingual.Fax resume to (908) 233-9920

or call (908) 233-9111

PUBLIC NOTICEBOROUGH OF FANWOOD

PLANNING BOARD

Notice is hereby given that the PLAN-NING BOARD OF THE BOROUGH OFFANWOOD, after public hearing on May28, 2008, granted approval to the applica-tion for C variances for property owned byDean Pratt and Elaine Lehecka Pratt at380 North Avenue, Fanwood, New Jer-sey, being Block 68 and Lot 12.

Documents pertaining to this applica-tion are available for public inspection atBorough Hall during normal businesshours.

Mr. Dean Pratt380 North Avenue

Fanwood, New Jersey 070231 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $16.32


NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OFORDINANCE 08-12-R

AND PUBLIC HEARINGAn ordinance was introduced by the

Mayor and Council of the Borough ofFanwood on July 28, 2008. Copies of thisordinance can be obtained without cost inthe Clerk’s Office, at the Fanwood Bor-ough Hall, 75 North Martine Avenue,Fanwood, New Jersey between the hoursof 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday throughFriday.

This ordinance establishes parking per-mit fees for the use of the Fanwood mu-nicipal parking lots.

This ordinance is scheduled for publichearing and adoption on August 12, 2008,at 7:30 P.M., Fanwood Borough Hall, 75North Martine Avenue, Fanwood, NewJersey.

Eleanor McGovernBorough Clerk

1 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $20.91


NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OFORDINANCE 08-13-R

AND PUBLIC HEARINGAn ordinance was introduced by the

Mayor and Council of the Borough ofFanwood on July 28, 2008. Copies of thisordinance can be obtained without cost inthe Clerk’s Office, at the Fanwood Bor-ough Hall, 75 North Martine Avenue,Fanwood, New Jersey between the hoursof 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday throughFriday.

This ordinance provides for curbsidebulk waste collection in the Borough ofFanwood.

This ordinance is scheduled for publichearing and adoption on August 12, 2008,at 7:30 P.M., Fanwood Borough Hall, 75North Martine Avenue, Fanwood, NewJersey.

Eleanor McGovernBorough Clerk

1 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $20.91

PUBLIC NOTICESCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD

BOARD OF EDUCATION

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed proposals will be received by theScotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Educa-tion, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, in theBoard of Education office, Evergreen Av-enue and Cedar Street, Scotch Plains,New Jersey 07076, at 11:00 A.M. (Pre-vailing Time) on August 13, 2008 at whichtime bids will be opened and read aloudfor:

FENCING AND RELATEDWORK AT FOOTBALL FIELDAND SOCCER FIELD ATSCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOODHIGH SCHOOL

Plans and Specifications will be avail-able on August 1, 2008

Plans, specifications, form of bid, con-tract and bond for the proposed work andother contract documents thereto, as pre-pared by M. Disko Associates, are on filein their offices at 151 Sumner Avenue,Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, and maybe examined at the office of M. DiskoAssociates during normal business hours.

Bidders will be furnished with a copy ofthe Plans and Specifications by the Engi-neer, upon proper notice and payment ofa check for Seventy Five ($ 75.00.)dollars, payable to M. DISKO ASSOCI-ATES, said cost being the reproductionprice of the documents and is not return-able.

Proposal forms (as contained in theSpecifications) provide for the awarding ofall the work to the lowest qualified bidderfor each separate contract.

The guaranty accompanying the bid shallbe given in the amount of ten percent(10%) of the bid and may be given at theoption of the bidder by a Certified Check orBid Bond from a reputable insurance com-pany.

All bidders must be prequalified in ac-cordance with Chapter 105, Laws of 1962,as amended by Chapter 188, Laws of1968 as set forth in Instructions to Bidders.

Labor in connection with the project shallbe paid not less than wages as listed inPrevailing Wage Rate Determination pur-suant to Chapter 150 of the New JerseyLaws of 1963, or the U. S. Department ofLabor Wage Determinations, whicheverare higher for each class of labor. Biddersare required to comply with the require-ments of PL 1975, C. 127 (NJAC 17:27).

Bids may be held by the Board of Educa-tion for a period not to exceed sixty (60)days from the date of the opening of Bidsfor the purpose of reviewing the bids andinvestigating the qualifi-cations of bidders,prior to awarding of the Contract.

The Board of Education reserves theright to reject any or all bids if in its judg-ment the public interest will be served byso doing.

By order of the Scotch Plains-FanwoodBoard of Education, Scotch Plains, NewJersey.

Anthony Del SordiSchool Business Administrator

Board Secretary1 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $62.73

SUBMIT yourFanwood Planning Board

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Westfield . . . Magnificent 5 bedroom Tudor, w/ exceptionalcraftsmanship and architectural integrity. Archways, carved cornices,&dentil molding add to the distinctive style. Recent improvements includeextensive landscaping, refurbished in ground pool, new designer kitchen,all baths updated, new interior décor & refinished hardwood floors.Dramatic 2 story entrance w/grand staircase , spacious living room w/fireplace. Garden/family room w/ barrel ceiling, & French doors toraised flagstone patio & fenced grounds. The banquet size dining roomopens to new kitchen and breakfast area. A bedroom/den and newer fullbath off the kitchen for guests or au pair. Four spacious bedrooms &three newer full baths. Expandible attic, walk-out basement, rec room,storage & 2 car garage. $1,550,000.

Westfield…Spacious 6 BR, 5 ½ BTH colonial on cul-de-sac.Quality renovations w/addition 2004. Custom KIT w/granitecenter isle, separate dining area, French DR to patio. AdjacentFR (22x16) w/frplc w/French doors to LR. Elegant DR (20 x13) w/brick frplc, Master suite w/sitting rm, whirlpoo bath &skylight, private guest suite, finished basement w/Rec Rm,Execise Rm, Nanny’s suite. 3 Zn CAC & HT, 2 Car garage.Close to School. $1,390,000.

Scotch Plains . . . custom 4 Bedroom Room, 3 full Bath colonial inSterling Chase. 1st floor Master Bed Room with deluxe BTH andmany walk-in closets. 2 story foyer, Living Room w/Palladianwindow, Family Room w/ frplc, vault ceiling & slider to large deck,center isle kitchen with adjacent laundry. Full basement forexpansion. $759,000.

Fanwood…Charming storybook colonial in move-in condition.3 BR, 1 ½ BTHS. Many improvements: new furnace, wndws,roof, landscp, drvwy, fence, brk patio. Beau décor, w/ built-ins,archways, hardwood flrs, Quaint screen porch. Rec Rm. Closeto town, park and transportation. $499,900. WSF0498

LEAD INFANT TEACHER

Do you love babies?Immediate opening for lead infantteacher. Must have degree orCDA. Responsibilites includedaily caring for infants &developmentally appropriatelesson planning.

Send resume to:[email protected]

or call: (908) 232-5250

PUBLIC NOTICETOWN OF WESTFIELD

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

The Board of Adjustment of the Town ofWestfield, New Jersey will meet on August11, 2008 in the Council Chambers in theMunicipal Building, 425 East Broad Street,Westfield, New Jersey at 7:30 p.m. to hearand consider the following appeals forvariance(s) from the requirements of theWestfield Land Use Ordinance:

Robert & Marie Sloan, 373 OrendaCircle, Applicant seeks permission to con-struct a 6 foot fence in the street side yardcontrary to Section 12.07C of the LandUse Ordinance. Ordinance allows a 4 foothigh fence in the street side yard. Pro-posed is a 6 foot fence.

Luis F. & Elizabeth T. Vilarin, 430Everson Place, Applicant seeks permis-sion to alter the existing screened porch touse the area as a combined mudroom/laundry and as an eating area for ourmodest kitchen contrary to Section 12.04F1of the Land Use Ordinance. Ordinanceallows a maximum coverage by buildingsand above ground structures of 20%. Pro-posed is 22.4% (Re-constructed).

Variances, waivers or exceptions fromcertain site plan details or relief from re-quirements may be sought as appropri-ate.

Plans and application are on file in theoffice of the Town Engineer, 959 NorthAvenue West, Westfield, New Jersey andmay be seen Monday through Friday from8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Kathleen A. NemethSecretary, Board of Adjustment

1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $34.68


BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

The Board of Adjustment of the Town ofWestfield, New Jersey will meet on August11, 2008 in the Council Chambers in theMunicipal Building, 425 East Broad Street,Westfield, New Jersey at 7:30 p.m. to hearand consider the following appeal forvariance(s) from the requirements of theWestfield Land Use Ordinance.

Lottie Wright, 370 South Avenue East,per Section 19.06 of the Land Use Ordi-nance is seeking certification that the non-conforming use of the property, as a threefamily dwelling, is lawful. Per Section 11.28of the Land Use Ordinance, the currentuse as a three-family is not permitted, andin the event that the Board denies suchcertification the applicant seeks a use vari-ance to continue to utilize the property asa three family.




1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $29.07

Brian Guidera

HELP WANTED

Busy Fitness Studio SeeksPart-time Receptionist,Evenings & Saturdays.Experience Required.

Email resume to:[email protected]

WF Y Names GuideraAquatics Director

Brian Guidera has been promotedto Competitive Aquatics Directorfor the Devilfish Swim Team at theWestfield Area Y.

Guidera joined the Westfield AreaY in November 2001 as the HeadAge Group Coach for the Devil-fish. He then served as the Associ-ate Aquatics Director and the HeadAge Group Coach for the team. Inhis new role, he will take over lead-ership of the Devilfish.

The Devilfish is a competitiveteam for children and teens ages 6to 18. The team competes againstother YMCAs in the area in bothdual and invitational meets. Swim-mers, who meet qualifying stan-dards, have the option of partici-pating in regional and nationalmeets.

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday August 3rd, 1-4 PM

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Two Car Garage. Close proximity to Franklin School. Call for a private

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PUBLIC NOTICETOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Invitations are extended to qualified Bid-ders to bid for the following purchase

2008 WORKMENWITH A UTILITY SPRAYER

Bids will be accepted only by mail or inperson to the Office of the Township Clerk,Scotch Plains Municipal Building, 430 ParkAvenue, Scotch Plains, New Jersey 07076(ATTN: Barbara Riepe, Township Clerk)until Thursday August 7, 20008 10:00amThe Township of Scotch Plains (hereinaf-ter “Township”) shall not be responsiblefor any bid mailed which is lost in transit ordelivered late by the Postal Service. At theabove time, the bids will be publicly openedand read aloud. All bids must be pre-sented in sealed envelopes which areclearly marked ” 2008 Workmen with autility Sprayer”, 430 Park Avenue, ScotchPlains, New Jersey 07076". No bid will bereceived after the time and date specified.

After receipt of bids, no bid may bewithdrawn within sixty (60) days after thedate of the bid opening except if providedfor herein. The bid of any Bidder whoconsents to an extension may be held forconsideration for a longer period of time asmay be agreed upon between Bidder andthe Township.

All bids must be on the bid forms pro-vided by the Township of Scotch Plains inthe Bid Package. Specifications and bidforms may be obtained from the Office ofRecreation, Municipal Building, Townshipof Scotch Plains, between the hours of9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday throughFriday.

Bid proposals and all required docu-ments must be completed and submittedby the date as set forth above. All docu-ments in the enclosed Bid Package mustaccompany the bid proposal.

In addition to the above documents, acertified check, cashier’s check or bid bondissued by a responsible bank, trust com-pany or insurance company, payable tothe Township of Scotch Plains shall besubmitted with each bid as a guaranty thatif a contract is awarded the Bidder shallexecute said Contract. The Bid Securityshall be in the amount of ten percent (10%)of the total amount of the bid orTwentyThousand Dollars ($20,000.00),whichever is lower.

All bid Security, except the Bid Securityof the three (3) apparent lowest respon-sible Bidders shall, if requested in writing,be returned after ten (10) days from theopening of the bids (Sundays and holidayexcepted) and the bids of such Biddersshall be considered withdrawn.

The Township reserves the right to re-ject any or all bids, and to waive immaterialinformalities, all in accordance with theNew Jersey Local Public Contracts LawN.J.S.A. 40A:111 et seq. In the event ofan equal or tie bid, the Township shallaward the bid in accordance with statestatutes.

The Township also reserves the right toreject any and all bids if sufficient funds arenot available and/or appropriated.

The selected Bidder, will, within seven(7) days of award of the bid, enter into anappropriate contact with the Township.

All Bidders must comply with P.L. 1975,Chapter 127, entitled “An Act Relating toAffirmative Action in Relation to Discrimi-nation in Connection with Certain PublicContracts and Supplementing the ‘LawAgainst Discrimination’ approved April 16,1945 (P.L. 1945, Chapter 169)”, N.J.A.C.17:27, as amended from time to time, andthe Americans With Disability Act.

BY ORDER OF THE TOWNSHIP OFSCOTCH PLAINS OF THE COUNTY OFUNION, STATE OF NEW JERSEY.

Thomas AtkinsMunicipal Manager

Ray PoerioDirector Of Parks and RecreationTownship Of Scotch Plains430 Park AveScotch Plains, New Jersey 088201 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $80.07

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICEUNION COUNTY BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS

BOND ORDINANCE STATEMENT AND SUMMARYORDINANCE: 670-2008

FINAL READING: 7/24/2008

The bond ordinance, the summary terms of which are included herein, has been finallyadopted by the Board of Chosen Freeholders of the County of Union, State of New Jerseyon July 24, 2008 and the 20-day period of limitation within which a suit, action orproceeding questioning the validity of such ordinance can be commenced, as providedin the Local Bond Law, has begun to run from the date of the first publication of thisstatement. Copies of the full ordinance are available at no cost and during regularbusiness hours, at the Clerk of the Board of Chosen Freeholders’ office for members ofthe general public who request the same. The summary of the terms of such bondordinance follows:

TITLE: BOND ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAKING OF VARIOUSPUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS IN, BY AND FOR THE COUNTY OF UNION,STATE OF NEW JERSEY, TO APPROPRIATE THE SUM OF $1,900,000 TOPAY THE COST THEREOF, TO MAKE A DOWN PAYMENT, TO AUTHO-RIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS TO FINANCE SUCH APPROPRIATIONAND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF BOND ANTICIPATION NOTESIN ANTICIPATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS.

The purposes, appropriations and bonds/notes authorized in this multipurpose bondordinance are as follows:

SCHEDULE OF IMPROVEMENTS, PURPOSES AND AMOUNTS

A. Department of Public Safety - Undertaking of various improvements to the UnionCounty Fire Academy in Linden (including architectural and other professional servicesin connection therewith).

Appropriation and Estimated Cost $1,250,000Down Payment Appropriated $ 62,500Bonds and Notes Authorized $1,187,500Period of Usefulness 15 years

B. Open Space - Acquisition of real property known as the Hungarian Club located onOld Raritan Road in the Township of Clark, New Jersey (the “Township”), for open spaceconservation and other governmental purposes. Said property to be acquired isdesignated as Block 33, Lot 7 on the Tax Assessment Map of the Township.

Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 650,000Down Payment Appropriated $ 32,500Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 617,500Period of Usefulness 40 years

———————————————————————————Aggregate Appropriation and Estimated Cost $ 1,900,000Aggregate Down Payment Appropriated $ 95,000Aggregate Amount of Bonds and Notes Authorized $ 1,805,000

Grants (if any) Appropriated: $ -0-Section 20 Costs: $275,000Useful Life: 23.55 years

This Notices is published pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:2-17.Nicole L. DiRado, Clerk of the Board of Chosen Freeholders

County of Union, State of New Jersey1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $89.76

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICENEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

DIVISION OF PROCUREMENT, BUREAU OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES1035 PARKWAY AVENUE, PO BOX 605

TRENTON, NEW JERSEY 08625

Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received via the Internet until 10:00:59A.M. on 8/19/08, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, from Bidders classifiedunder N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.1 et seq.; in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & ABuilding, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton,New Jersey 08625; for:

Re-Advt. Maint. Mix Asphalt Pavement Crack Sealing Cont., North - 2008, Variouslocations in Various Counties of North Region, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris,Passaic, Sussex, Union Counties and partly Warren Co.; 100% State; DP No: 08450

Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of P.L. 1975, C.127 N.J.A.C.17:27. Pursuant to P.L. 2005, C. 51 the awarded bidder must provide a completedContractor Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form(s) withinfourteen (14) days from the award date. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, all bidders mustbe registered with the New Jersey Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue,Business Registration, as of the date of bids. The awarded bidder must provide proof ofvalid business registration within fourteen (14) days from the award date. Pursuant to the“Public Works Contractor Registration Act”, N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.48 et seq. (P.L. 2003, c.91), all bidders must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Division ofWage and Hour Compliance, at the time of bid. The awarded bidder must provide proofof PWCR within fourteen (14) days from the award date.

The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity tosubmit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder onthe grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award.

Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available atBid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. Tosubscribe follow the instructions on the website. Fees apply to downloading documentsand plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees aredirectly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may beinspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design FieldOffices at the following locations:

200 Stierli Court Route 79 and Daniels Way 1 Executive Campus Rt 70WMt. Arlington, NJ Freehold, NJ Cherry Hill, NJ973-770-5141 732-308-4025 856-486-6624

3 T - 7/31/08, 8/7/08 and 8/14/08, The Leader Fee: $205.02

Beth Israel to HostOpen House

SCOTCH PLAINS – Congrega-tion Beth Israel in Scotch Plains in-vites everyone who is looking to joina Synagogue or thinking about join-ing a Synagogue to our ProspectiveOpen House.

Come for a get-together to learnmore about our Synagogue and com-munity, held at the home of our mem-bership co-chairs Ira and LisaSmelkinson in Westfield.

The open house will take place onAugust 7 at 7:30 p.m. This event isfree but RSVPs are required. Pleaserespond by August 4 to the Syna-gogue office at (908) 889-1830.

WF Student Ingram EarnsEagle Scout Award

WESTFIELD – Ryan Ingramearned the Eagle Scout Award withBoy Scout Troop 72, sponsored bythe Presbyterian Church, in Westfield.

Ryan began scouting as a Cub Scoutat Wilson School’s Troop 171. Heearned the highest Cub Scout Arrowof Light Award

For his Eagle Project, Ryan orga-nized a volunteer group of scouts,friends and adults to complete a paint-ing and landscaping project with theYMCA. The YMCA owns threehouses on Ferris Street that housesYMCA employees. Ryan coordinatedthe painting of all three back porchesof the homes. The volunteer group

also planted shrubs and plants in thefront and sides of the three homes.They trimmed the existing shrubs andadded mulch to all the landscapingbeds. They did a cleanup of weedsand debris. Ryan received supplydonations from Westfield Lumber andWilliams Nursery. He received grantsfrom the Westfield Rotary Club,Westfield Foundation and WestfieldService League to complete his EagleProject.

Ryan is a junior at Westfield HighSchool. He is a member of the FallCross Country and Spring TrackTeams. Ryan is currently employedas a lifeguard at the Westfield Memo-rial Pool. He is also recently a con-firmed member of Holy TrinityChurch in Westfield.

Ryan Ingram

SP Dentist to RemainSpeaker of Association

SCOTCH PLAINS – In a recentceremony at the New Jersey DentalAssociation’s (NJDA) 138th AnnualConvention in Atlantic City, WalterChinoy, DMD, was sworn in as theorganization’s speaker of the Houseof Delegates for the 2008-2009 year.

This marks the 18th year Dr. Chinoyhas served in this capacity as he buildson his record as the longest-servingspeaker in the Association’s history.

A general dentist in Scotch Plains,Dr. Chinoy received his bachelor’sdegree from Rutgers University andhis dental degree from the Universityof Pennsylvania School of DentalMedicine.

He is a member of the Academy ofGeneral Dentistry, American Acad-

emy of the History of Dentistry andthe American Institute of Parliamen-tarians. Dr. Chinoy is a fellow of boththe American and International Col-leges of Dentists and the PierreFauchard Academy.

Dr. Chinoy is a past president of theCentral Dental Society and was edi-tor of its bulletin. He has served as amember of the NJDA Board of Trust-ees since 1988 and has been a mem-ber of the NJDA House of Delegatessince 1983. He served for three yearson the NJDA Council on Communi-cations, for six years on the NJDACouncil on Legislation, is an execu-tive committee member of the NewJersey Dental Political Action Com-mittee and an alternate delegate to theAmerican Dental Association.

In his spare time, Dr. Chinoy is anavid coin collector and is the immedi-ate past president of the New JerseyNumismatic Society. Dr. Chinoy andhis wife, Elaine, live in Scotch Plainswith their two sons, Adam and Evan.

Walter Chinoy, DMD


BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT


Gilbert J. Engelke, 751 ProspectStreet, Applicant seeks permission to con-struct a third story addition contrary toSection 11.08E6 of the Land Use Ordi-nance. Ordinance requires a side yardsetback of 10 feet. Proposed is 5.11 feet.

Lynn & Richard Mayer, 319 OrendaCircle, Applicant seeks permission to con-struct a two story addition contrary to Sec-tions 11.04E6 and 11.04E7 of the LandUse Ordinance. Ordinance requires a mini-mum side yard setback of 15 feet. Pro-posed is 14 feet 6 inches. Ordinance re-quires a minimum rear yard setback of 50feet. Proposed is 37 feet, 9.5 inches.

Tina Gargiulo and StephenDombroski, 1010 Coolidge Street, Ap-plicant seeks permission to construct asecond story addition contrary to Section11.09E6 of the Land Use Ordinance. Ordi-nance requires a side yard setback of 10feet. Proposed is 8.25 feet.

William F. Byrne, 202 North EuclidAvenue, Applicant seeks permission toconstruct a first floor addition contrary toSection 11.09E6 of the Land Use Ordi-nance. Ordinance requires a side yardsetback of 10 feet. Proposed is 8.8 feet.

Gary Zanfagna, 621 Arlington Avenue,Applicant seeks permission to construct aporch addition contrary to Section 12.04Fof the Land Use Ordinance. Ordinanceallows a maximum building coverage of20% or 2,030 square feet. Proposed is20.45% or 2,076.2 square feet.




1 T- 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $49.98

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICEBOROUGH OF FANWOOD

RESOLUTION TO AMEND BUDGET

WHEREAS, the local municipal budget for the year 2008 was approved on the 19th day of March, 2008 andWHEREAS, the public hearing on said budget has been held as advertised, andWHEREAS, it is desired to amend said approved budget, nowTHEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Borough Council of the Borough of Fanwood, County of Union, that the following

amendments to the approved budget of 2008 be made:

RECORDED VOTE Ayes: Mitchell, Wheeler, Valian, WalshNays: ParentiAbstained: NoneAbsent: Dolce

Anticipated Revenues:FROM TO

1. Surplus Anticipated 420,000.00 02. Surplus Anticipated With Prior Written Consent of Director of Local Government Services 0 440,000.00

Total Surplus Anticipated 420,000.00 440,000.003. Miscellaneous Revenues-Section B:State Aid without Offsetting Appropriations

Extraordinary Aid. 0 425,000.00Consolidated Municipal Property Tax Relief Aid 76,660.00 121,376.00

Total Section B State Aid without Offsetting Appropriations 979,079.00 1,448,795.00

FROM TO3. Miscellaneous Revenues-Section F: Special Items of Revenue Anticipated With Prior Written Consent Director Of Local Government Services-Public and Private Revenues:

Recycling Tonnage Grant 0 2,464.48Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund 0 2,989.07Clean Communities Grant 0 8,130.45Clean Communities Grant-Unappropriated 0 704.3Body Armor Replacement Fund 0 2,240.91Storm Water Infrastructure Grant 0 2,117.00

Total Section F: Special Items of Revenue Anticipated With Prior Written Consent Director Of Local Government Services-Public and Private Revenues 0 18,646.21

FROM TO3. Miscellaneous Revenues-Section G: Special Items of Revenue Anticipated With Prior Written Consent Director Of Local Government Services-Other Special Items

Bulk Waste Pick-up Fees 0 49,000.00

Total Section G: Special Items of Revenue Anticipated With Prior Written Consent Director Of Local Government Services-Other Special Items 110,829.43 159,829.43

Summary of Revenues:3. Miscellaneous RevenuesTotal Section B: State Aid without Offsetting Appropriations 979,079.00 1,448,795.00Total Section F:Public and Private Revenues 0 18,646.21Total Section G:Other Special Items 110,829.43 159,829.43

Total Miscellaneous Revenues 1,947,208.43 2,484,570.64

Subtotal General Revenues 2,537,208.43 3,094,570.64

6. Amount to Be Raised By Taxes 5,925,289.77 5,311,554.37

7. Total General Revenues 8,462,498.20 8,406,125.01

8. General Appropriations:a. Operations Within “CAPS”:Administration - Salaries & Wages 187,500.00 185,000.00Administration - Other Expenses 47,045.00 48,045.00Financial Administration - Other Expenses 13,860.00 12,440.00Assessment of Taxes - Other Expenses 5,000.00 4,900.00Collection of Taxes - Other Expenses 2,180.00 1,780.00Municipal Court - Other Expenses 13,600.00 12,750.00Shade Tree Commission - Other Expenses 40,240.00 39,240.00Fire - Other Expenses - Miscellaneous 43,913.97 42,913.97Police - Salaries and Wages 2,079,222.00 2,059,672.00Police - Other Expenses 63,046.75 59,546.75Traffic Signal Maintenance - Other Expenses 0 6,500.00Streets & Roads - Salaries & Wages 665,500.00 645,430.00Streets & Roads - Other Expenses 87,300.00 86,300.00Public Assistance - Salaries & Wages 2,000.00 0Parks & Playgrounds - Salaries & Wages 23,500.00 19,270.00Senior Citizens - Salaries and Wages 10,000.00Senior Citizens - Other Expenses 7,265.00 5,165.00

FROM TOSocial Services Coordinator - Salaries & Wages 10,000.00 1,000.00Construction Official - Other Expenses 10,920.00 9,690.00Zoning Officer - Salaries and Wages 22,947.00 14,250.00Zoning Officer - Other Expenses 2,515.00 9,500.00Gasoline & Diesel Fuel 60,000.00 80,000.00New Jersey Transit - Contractual 27,900.00 30,900.00Municipal Alliance 0 2,100.00

Total Operations ( Items 8(A) Within “CAPS” 5,883,644.47 5,854,582.47

Total Operations Including Contingent Within “CAPS” 5,885,644.47 5,856,582.47

Detail:Salaries and Wages 3,533,004.00 3,476,957.00Other Expenses 2,352,640.47 2,379,625.47

(E) Deferred Charges and Other Statutory Expenditures:Consolidated Police and Firemen’s Pension Fund 13,342.36 13,384.96

Total Deferred Charges & Statutory Expenditures-Municipal Within CAPS 183,342.36 183,384.96

Total General Appropriations For Municipal Purposes Within “CAPS” 6,068,986.83 6,039,967.43

(A) Operations Excluded From “CAPS”Other Operations:

Plainfield Area Regional Sewerage Authority 340,800.00 344,800.00

Total Other Operations- Excluded From “CAPS” 1,219,161.40 1,223,161.40

Public and Private Programs Offset By RevenuesClean Communities Program 0 8,130.45Clean Communities Program - Unappropriated 0 704.3Body Armor Replacement Fund 0 2,240.91Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund 0 2,989.07Recycling Tonnage Grant 0 2,464.48Storm Water Management Grant 0 2,117.00

Total Public and Private Programs Offset By Revenues 1,994.25 20,640.46

Total Operations - Excluded From “CAPS”Detail:

Salaries and WagesOther Expenses 1,248,155.65 1,270,801.86

FROM TO(C) Capital Improvements - Excluded From “CAPS”

Capital Improvement Fund 100,000.00 50,000.00Total Capital Improvements 100,000.00 50,000.00

(H-2) Total General Appropriations for Municipal Purposes Excluded From “CAPS” 2,041,511.37 2,014,157.58

(O) Total General Appropriations-Excluded From “CAPS” 2,041,511.37 2,014,157.58

(L) Subtotal General Appropriations {Items (h-1) and (o)} 8,110,498.20 8,054,125.01

9. TOTAL GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS 8,462,498.20 8,406,125.01

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that two certified copies of this resolution be filed forthwith in the Office of the Director of LocalGovernment Services for her certification of the local municipal budget so amended.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this complete amendment, in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A.40A:4-9, be publishedin the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Time in the issuce of July 31, 2008, and that said publication contain notice of public hearing on saidamendment to be held at Fanwood Borough Hall on August 20, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.

It is hereby certified that this is a true copy of a resolution amending the budget, adopted by the governing body on the 28th day ofJuly, 2008.

Certified by me, 29th day of July, 2008, Eleanor McGovern, Municipal Clerk1 T - 7/31/08, The Times Fee: $316.71

RIDING FOR THE CURE…The 2007 Guys and Dolls Team is comprised of(from L to R) Leslie Dickstein, Mitch Slater, Nancy, Geneva, Scott Gleason, MarciFisher, Gregg Rood (not pictured: Ilana Rood, Howard and Jason Diamond, MikeMcDonnel). The team is recruiting new members to join them in this year’sMSNYC Bike Tour.

Baptist Church to HostOlympic Themed Event

WESTFIELD – In honor of the2008 Olympics in Beijing, the FirstBaptist Church of Westfield is host-ing a fun themed event on Saturday,August 9. The event will featureOlympic games, a sideshow of Beijingand make-your-own missionarybracelets.

The event is open to the commu-nity and will run from 4 to 6 p.m., rainor shine. All are welcome, but pleaseregister by calling the church office at(908) 233-2278.

The First Baptist Church ofWestfield is located at 170 Elm St.

WESTFIELD – This fall will markthe ninth year Westfield Realtor ScottGleason captains the Guys and Dollsteam in the MSNYC Bike Tour. Rid-ers are invited to join the team andhelp raise money for the fight to cureMS.

The nearly flat, 30-mile ride, whichgoes through the FDR and HarlemRiver Drives and the West Side High-way, will take place on Sunday, Octo-ber 5. Sixty and 100-mile options areavailable through the Lincoln tunneland over the George WashingtonBridge. Riders are treated to a festivefinish line party with swag bags, re-freshments and massages.

In addition to individual fund rais-ing, the team plans to stage fun-for-

all recruiting and fundraising eventsthis summer.

Guys and Dolls of all ages andabilities are invited to join. Pleasevisit WestfieldLife.com to get started.

MSNYC Bikers Now Recruiting Members

Reading is Good For You

goleader.com/subscribePUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF WESTFIELDBOARD OF ADJUSTMENT


John & Liz Duffy, 106 Dickson Road,Applicant seeks permission to construct akitchen addition, mudroom and one cargarage contrary to Sections 11.07E6 and12.03C,D & E of the Land Use Ordinance.Ordinance requires a minimum side yardsetback of 10 feet. Proposed is 8.5 feet.Ordinance requires a front yard setback of38 feet. Proposed is 32 feet 6inches.




1 T - 7/31/08, The Leader Fee: $27.51


Honor RollTerrill Middle School

Fourth Marking Period

SCOTCH PLAINS — TerrillMiddle School Principal KevinHolloway announced the school’sfourth marking period honor roll:

Sixth GradeHigh Honor Roll

Casey Abramson, Vasu Agrawal, KelseyAmes, Eduardo Arocha, Judah Axelrod, Jes-sica Banasiak, Lea Barny, Sal Bhakuni, AllisonCaramico, Angelo Chaia, Thomas Clarke,Meghan Costello, Andrew Davis, KyleDebelak, Katherine DeMarco, GabriellaDePaola, Brian Deutschmeister, MarissaDiBella, Carly Fleischer, Elizabeth Gelling,Matthew Giardiello, Zachary Goland, AlyssaGoldsmith, Sara Hayes, John Horre, GinaJadelis, Alicia Jiang, Benjamin Kaminoff, Jus-tin Kaufman, Paul Kussner, Julia Lavelle, JamieLevitt, Sara Lombardi, Joshua Lopez, Madi-son Maisel, Jenna Maizes, Amanda Malool,Alex Mazursky, Madeline McGovern, KyraMorling, Alexandra Negri, Alexandra O’Hara,Onyiny Ohamadike, Jeffrey Okoro, AlexaPaiva, Maria Pansulla, Nikhil Patel, MatthewPicone, Erik Reiman, Elias Riginos, AlyssaRiporti, Sarah Robinson, Shayna Rogoff,Sabrina Shih, Andrew Smith, Monica Squeri,Lekha Surasani, Alexis Veglia, MeganVoorhees, Thomas Walker, Olivia Wallden,Michael Walsh, Erica Weiss, Olivia Whitmer,Caitlin Williams, Peter Wright, Alex Wu,George Ye, Benjamin Yin

Sixth Grade Honor RollLeigh Abramson, Jacob Arkin, Sara Bab-

bitt, Carly Bayroff, Douglas Belcik, FrankBesson, Michael Borik, Michael Boyle, Tho-mas Braun, Jeffrey Cahn, Michael Carlos,Amber Chabus, Kevin Charos, Alex Cimring,Mimi Contreras, Madison Cooper, CatherineCoughlan, Justin Davidson, Demi DeBonis,Caroline Devito, Connor English, JohnFabricatore, Alexander Favreau, Megan Foley,Drew Garber, Kaila Garretson, GianniGaryfallos, Justin Giacona, Eliza Going, Chris-tian Gordon, Marc Gotliboym, Andrew Hall,Tyler Hardgrove, Katherine Harper, BrandonHo, Lucy Hollander, Michael Hopkins, CarlyHuxford, Vincent Iannuzzi, Alexandra Jacobs,Samantha Jacobs, Andrew Kalaligian, TraceyKatz, Caroline Keane, Rebecca Klee, KaylaKocha, Daniel Korduba, Yusra Lakhani, JamesLettieri, Christian Lettieri, ConstandinosLogus, Amanda Marcus, Brendan McKenna,Connor McNamara, Ailene McNamara,Amanda Michnowski, Matthew Moran, Jor-dan Morris, Nicole Nugent, Joseph Pagano,John(Jake) Pletscher, Jack Poillon, LindsayRatner, Samantha Rego, Joseph Rembish, AlexRodriguez, Hansel Romero, WilliamRosenberger, Jake Rosenblatt, Mia Rossi,Michael Rothman, Natalie Rothweiler, Eliza-beth Schwartz, Trevor Skanes, Corinne Spies,Emma Strong, Grant Sultatos, Adam Tropp,Jenny Tyler, Erin Weber, Megan Welch, CarlyWerkheiser, Olivia Whitehouse, EmilyWilliamson, Kurtis Wisniewski, MacKenzieWright, Elise Xu, Andy Xu, BenjaminYorkovich, Christian Zazzali

Seventh GradeHigh Honor Roll

Ross Alexander, Brynne Bartiromo, An-drew Bell, Patrick Bell, Jeremy Berkowitz,Julie Busch, Anna Cannone, Julia Chimienti,Zachary Ciabattari, Jackson Cochran-Carney,Sari Dorn, Jacqueline Fabricatore, ScottFlanzman, Paige Goldner, Jordan Greenberg,Sarah Hensley, Victoria Karakis, Conor Kelly,Marianne Khalil, Jessica Klein, Kelly Lapham,Andrew Leischner, Dara Maguire, Ivy Malao,Gabrielle Mendes, Julia Mendes, OliviaMendes, Emily Miller, Jordan Milo, ChristineMonroy, Andrea Moore, Rachel Naugle,Kristen Northrup, Benjamin Oster, JesseOzdamar, Meredith Parker, Alexandra Peluso,Nikell Porter, Jamie Rauch, Michael Rempter,Karla Rizzi, Imogen Rosenbluth, Leah Salituro,Menaka Sanghvi, Hashem Selim, LeilaShevins, Tristan Sizemore, Jeremy Sonpar,Jodie Thompson, Isabela Uribe, Alexa

VanBesien, Benjamin Wagner, AndrewWheeler, Lindsey Wilkinson, Jacob Zacharia,Amy Zhuang, Marissa Ziering

Seventh Grade Honor RollRicky Abichandani, Lynn Babich, Jordan

Bernstein, Samuel Brause, Marc Brody, Ben-jamin Caldora, Mehak Chawla, TigheChemidlin, Quinn Cicolello, Nathan Clark,Andrew Coronato, Nasim Dariani, AmeerDavis, Taylor Diken, Andrew Dill, AmandaEspinoza, Jason Fortunato, James Freeman,Sarah Freeman, Ryan Gajdzisz, AllisonGeissler, Jason Gerstenfeld, Victoria Giamboi,Nicholas Gianni, Kerri Gilman, Julie Glover,Jillian Gonzales, Dasia Green, Emma Guidi,Ross Hankin, Alyssa Hartstein, Emily Ho,Eryn Hopkins, Hadley Jones, Jacob Kennedy,Lauren Koederitz, Caroline Leahy, AlyssaLeyden, Daniel Liang, Zachary Lisojo, KiraLoh, Katherine Loi, Thomas Magelinski, PaigeMankin, Maxine Marvosa, Ryan McAnulty,Dillon McDermott, Christine Miklas, GabrieleMiller, Jay Morris, Elyse Nadal, ValerieNeuhaus, Hannah Nizri, Kelly O’Leary, LucyOliva, Lee Ann Orenczak, Alex Ozdamar,Ariana Paradiso, Steven Pedersen, DominickPigna, Aidan Racaniello, Sophia Randazzo,Kevin Raszka, Chandler Reeson, Haley Regan,Corentin Rejaud, Amanda Rimpici, MichaelRosenheck, Gabrielle Sabony, Kristen Schiavo,Andrew Schwartz, Hailee Sciara, MichaelScordino, Deirdre Sheridan, Dazu Shi, An-drew Sikora, Joshua Simon, Kayla Spector,Michael Stein, Colin Stripling, AlexandraSullivan, Justine Valdes, Emily Vaslas, MichaelVignola, Joanna Walker, Michael White, CarlyWhitmer, Nathaniel Woerner, Caitlyn Worthey,Tal Zaksenberg

Eighth GradeHigh Honor Roll

Nicolette Ambrosio, Stephanie Beauvais,Elijahu Ben-Michael, Rohan Bhatt, EmmaBudiansky, Jacqueline Cirincione, MartyDavidson, II, Rosalie DePaola, Samantha Diaz,Lauren Eckert, Destinee Edwards, AlexandraEhrenthal, Kori Fleischman, Brenda Ho,Stephanie Holmes, Ian Johnston, Priya Kamdar,Kaitlin Kearney, Alyssa Laki, JonathanMahoney, Mitchell Marcus, Casey McBride,Brigid McGovern, Ryan McKenna, MatthewMonroy, Varshini Narayanan, ChiomaOnwuanaegbule, Madhumit Parmar, MargotRejaud, Rula Saeed, Seth Schlisserman, Jenni-fer Schwarz, Avia Shadmi, Abigail Slaugh,Nicholas Stawicki, Michelle Tager, CynthiaTimko, Nicole Turso, Heather Ullery, MarissaVisci, Jaime Weisbrot

Eighth Grade Honor RollRaphael Abella, Meghan Allen, Michala

Allen, Andrew Alonzo, Jourdan Archer-Sizemore, William Babis, Dara Baliatico,Allison Begalman, Michael Caminiti, TeresaCannone, Daniela Caro-Esposito, ZacharyCarow, Patrick Cassidy, Emma Cavaliere, AlecChabus, Lindsey Cianciotta, Ryan Coughlan,Grant Crandall, Michael Daly, Taylor Dashiell,Russell Davis, Madelyne Dhaliwal, MariaDiwane, Nicholas Donatelli, Joseph Dunn,Alison Durant, Robert Dyckman, Caitlin En-glish, Elizabeth Gallo, Jillian Gardner, JoshuaGetman, Noelle Giacona, Sara Heiden, RyanHenkels, Taylor Hoblitzell, Evan Hodulik,Karina Homentowska, Jacquelyn Isola, TamaraItzkowitz, Naomi Joseph, Melissa Keiser,Jonathan Kerby, Ezra Klein, Brett Kovacs,Inaya Lakhani, Zachary Lenoff, AlexandraLoop, Evan Lubranski, Kaitlyn Majek, AnnaMalone, Bria Marable, Bianca Marcazzo, AlexMarkovits, Kelsey Mattimore, SiddharthNirmal, Daniel Nizolak, Cole Nowlin, EmilyPalmer, Emiddio Pelosi, Daniel Pesin, KaitlinPicone, Nicholas Poulios, Jane Rabinovich,Benjamin Ratner, Cassidy Reilly, MiriamReiserova, Brandon Rodriquez, DanielleRosenblatt, Valerie Rovner, Michael Sabony,Salli Jean Saputo, Angela Schnatter, EliSilverstein, Andrew Skoog, Taylor Sprague,Tracy Staeudle, Michael Steinfeld, SheilaStrong, Sara Tepper, Tyler Terens, Erica Tropp,Julia Van Etten, Michael Vilarino, CallumWayman, Allison Whitehouse, Jeremy Wise

SLIME BUCKET...Fifth graders at Wilson Elementary School celebrated theend of the school year with a party held in the Roosevelt Intermediate School gym.The celebration included food and live entertainment inspired by Nickelodeon’s“Slime Time.” The children participated in various games, including a chickentoss and balloon pop.

Commerce Bank AnnouncesScholarship Recipients

AREA — Commerce Bank re-cently announced the recipients of itsannual American Dream Scholarshipprogram, which awards $1,000 to lo-cal graduating seniors who achieveboth academic excellence and servethe community.

In the area, Commerce Bank gavescholarships to:

Elena Lopez, a Mountainside resi-dent, who graduated from GovernorLivingston High School. Elena plansto attend Brown University in Provi-dence, R.I., and major in physicaltherapy. Throughout high school,Elena was active in the National HonorSociety, French Honor Society, LatinHonor Society, student council andmath league.

Loralyn Sarabia, a Clark resident,who graduated from Arthur L.Johnson High School. Loralyn plansto attend Johns Hopkins Universityin Baltimore, Md., and major in nurs-ing. Throughout high school, Loralyn

was active in the National Honor So-ciety, Spanish Honor Society, historyclub and student council and was vicepresident of the key club.

Ryan Zimmerman, a Cranford resi-dent, who graduated from CranfordHigh School. Ryan plans to attendBrown University in Providence, R.I.Throughout high school, Ryan wasactive in the National Honor Society,Latin Honor Society, Tri-M MusicHonor Society, student governmentand math league.

The American Dream ScholarshipsProgram awarded scholarships to 225community service-oriented highschool seniors within the bank’s mar-ket area of more than 470 stores.

Commerce donated $225,000 inscholarship dollars this year. Nearly7,000 students sought scholarshipsfrom the program.

For more information, visitcommerceonline.com or call (888)751-9000.

RIS Announces‘Straight A’ Students WESTFIELD — Roosevelt Inter-

mediate School Principal StewartCarey announced the following stu-dents have received straight A’s forthe entire three years at Rooseveltfrom 2005-2008.

They are:Alana Basil, MadelineChandler, Rory Fitzpatrick, CarolineGelinne, Alexandra Hoffman, TaylorIngber, Katharine Jaruzelski,Alexandra Jason, Kaitlyn Johnson,Kelly Kalis, Olivia Pecora, CharlesScott, Stephanie Tepper and MichaelWoods.

Scotch Plains-FW SchoolOfficials Hold Mock Drills

SCOTCH PLAINS – On July 22,in concert with the Scotch PlainsPolice Department, central officeadministrators and elementaryschool principals of the ScotchPlains-Fanwood Public School dis-trict participated in “table top” drillsto practice and test emergency pro-cedures for the elementary schools.

These drills were the culminationof school safety-management meet-ings and discussions held duringthe 2007-2008 school year, and in-corporated recommendations fromthe Department of Education andthe Union County Prosecutor’s of-fice.

District emergency-preparednessgoals for the 2007-2008 school yearincluded the completion of theseelementary drills with law enforce-

ment personnel, in addition to anoff-site evacuation drill for ScotchPlains-Fanwood High School thattook place on November 5, 2007and evacuation drills at Terrill andPark middle schools on April 10and May 28, respectively.

Emergency activities were pre-sented spontaneously to the princi-pals by the law-enforcement offi-cials and included such scenarios asan intruder in the building, a fire, abomb scare and a missing child.

Principals and administratorsworked together to outline the emer-gency procedures for each instanceand explored various alternatives.

Administrators will be meetingagain to further debrief as they up-date school emergency plans for the2008-2009 school year.

BE PREPARED...Last week, administrators and principals in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood school system were briefed on how to handle emergency-preparednessmatters. Above, officials strategize emergency procedures for a bomb scareduring a table top drill.

Mountainside PTASteps Up Box Tops Efforts

MOUNTAINSIDE — TheMountainside PTA, with the coopera-tion of borough officials, has placed aBox Tops For Education collectionbox in the lobby of the MountainsideMunicipal Building.

Borough residents are encouragedto place all collected box tops in plas-tic bags and drop them in the collec-tion box.

During the 2007-2008 school year,the Mountainside PTA collected$1,170, placing Mountainside in thetop 11 percent of participating schoolsnationwide. The PTA’s goal this yearis to earn $1,500 for the benefit of theBeechwood and Deerfield schools.

Children who are participating inthe incentive programs through theschools should continue to give thecollected Box Tops to their homeroom

teachers so they are recorded properly.Mountainside PTA Box Tops Co-

Chair Susan Buchner encouraged ev-eryone else to drop Box Tops in theMunicipal Building’s collection box.

“We would love to see our seniorcitizens get involved with and em-brace this program, as well as ourresidents who do not yet have childrenin our school district,” she said.

“Box tops are found on so manyeveryday products, such as cereals,plastic bags, cake mixes, etc.,” shesaid. “Just rip them off and bring themdown. We earn 10 cents for each onewe collect, and, believe me, they addup quickly. All of the money earned isfunneled right back to our schools.Drop them off when you are payingyour taxes, coming to vote – there isn’tany need to make a special trip.”

Area Students GraduateWith Class of 2008

The following area students gradu-ated as members of the class of 2008.The Westfield Leader and The ScotchPlains-Fanwood Times will publishreleases in the order they are re-ceived and congratulate all studentson their achievements.

Richard Stewart of Westfield gradu-ated from Marine Corps Boot Campon June 6 as a tank crewman. Richardwill join the 2nd Battalion for EchoCompany, Platoon 2036.

Catherine Rimondi of Westfieldgraduated with a degree in ItalianStudies from Boston University.

Cameron Banta of Westfield gradu-ated from Woodberry Forest Schoolon May 24. Cameron will attendMercersburg Academy for a post-graduate year before entering col-lege. Cameron is the son of Neil andNancy Banta.

Natalie Terens of Scotch Plains,Andrew Bakst, Kathryn Donovan,Meghan Evans and Ava Scheiningerof Westfield graduated fromMorristown-Beard School on June14.

The University of Scranton con-ferred 1,561 degrees to its graduatingclass, which includes the followingarea students.

Kevin Behr of Westfield received aBachelor of Science degree in com-puter information systems. DanielleHeffernan of Westfield earned a Bach-elor of Arts degree in English. ErinSullivan of Westfield was conferred aBachelor of Science degree in coun-seling and human services.

Two area students were conferredMaster of Science degrees. JocelynDemers-Bizzarro of Westfield re-ceived a Master of Science degree incurriculum and instruction. SarahKonzelman of Fanwood earned aMaster of Science degree in specialeducation.

Alexander Colucci and HarrisonMarino of Westfield graduated fromDelbarton School on June 20.Alexander, son of Nicholas and EllieColucci, will attend Middlebury Col-lege this fall. Harrison, son of Kevinand Rita Marino, will attend Will-iams College this fall.

Westfield residents David Finn andEamon Hartnett were among the St.Peter’s Prep Class of 2008 in JerseyCity. David, the son of Marybeth andDavid Finn, Sr., will attend the Col-lege of the Holy Cross in the fall.Eamon, the son of Mimi and EdwardHartnett, will attend the University ofChicago in the fall.

Allison Oberlander and ChelseaBaum of Westfield graduated withthe Kent Place Class of 2008 on June19.

Ryan James Leonard, formerly of

Westfield, graduated from CarnegieMellon University with a Bachelor’sof Fine Arts degree in clarinet perfor-mance. He has been award a fullscholarship to pursue his Mastersdegree in performance at CarnegieMellon.

Carys Davies of Scotch Plainsgraduated from Lesley UniversityMagna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’sof Science in human services with apsychology minor and social workspecialization. Carys is the recipientof the Margaret McKenna Leader-ship in Action Award and the EdithLesley Wolford Award. This fall shewill work for Americorps throughCity Year in Washington, D.C.

Jenna Marionni of Scotch Plains,Allyson Salisbury of Scotch Plainsand Courtney Veeck of Fanwoodgraduated from Susquehanna Uni-versity. Jenna and Allyson earnedBachelor of Science degrees in earthand environmental science. Allysongraduated summa cum laude and re-ceived the Sigma Gamma EpsilonTarr Award for earth sciences.Courtney earned a Bachelor of Sci-ence degree in biology.

Jourdan Loffredo, son of Dr. andMrs. Ronald Loffredo of Westfield,graduated with a Bachelor of Artsdegree in philosophy with a minor inpolitical science from Colgate Uni-versity.

Marist College held its commence-ment ceremony on May 18 and thefollowing area students graduated:

Meral Akyuz of Scotch Plainsgraduated Magna Cum Laude with aBachelor of Science in digital media.

Kathryn Elizabeth Bantz ofFanwood graduated Magna CumLaude with a Bachelor of Science inbusiness administration/marketing.

Bryan Harris of Scotch Plainsgraduated Magna Cum Laude with aBachelor of Arts in mathematics.

Christina Ann Minniti of ScotchPlains graduated Summa Cum Laudewith a Bachelor of Arts in psychol-ogy.

Bryan Smith of Fanwood gradu-ated Cum Laude with a Bachelor ofArts in communications/public rela-tions.

Robert Ryan Weber of ScotchPlains graduated Cum Laude with aBachelor of Science in business ad-ministration/finance.

Yasmin Nozari of Westfield gradu-ated from Connecticut College with aBachelor of Arts degree.

Allison Ann Phelan of Union gradu-ated from Union College inSchenectady, N.Y. with a Bachelor ofScience degree in geology.

Joseph Malchow, son of Paul andMarilyn Malchow of Scotch Plains,graduated from Dartmouth Univer-sity with a Bachelor of Arts degree ingovernment with a minor in English.

The following area students gradu-ated from Farleigh Dickinson Uni-versity:

Adam Jablow of Berkeley Heightsgraduated with a Master of BusinessAdministration degree in finance.

Travis DeLeon of BerkeleyHeights graduated with a Bachelorof Science degree in business man-agement.

Amanda Ray of Cranford gradu-ated with a Bachelor of Science de-gree in marketing.

Christopher Belsky of Cranfordgraduated with a Bachelor of Sciencedegree in economics and finance.

ON THE ROAD…Westfield High School Project ’79 students start their trip tothe Dominican Republic with a van ride courtesy of All Star Limo. Each studentraised at least $1,600, which will be used to start construction of a medical/education facility that will be called Project ’79 School.

WF Education Assoc.Awards ScholarshipsWESTFIELD — Caitlin Hewett,

Gregory O’Brien and Maya Pincus,pictured at left, were the recipients ofthis year’s Westfield Education Asso-ciation (WEA) scholarships. The as-sociation awards two scholarships tograduating seniors and the Barry JuddScholarship to a child of a Westfieldteacher.

The scholarships are awarded basedon academic achievement, participa-tion in sports, achievement in the artsand participation in school and com-munity activities. Awards Night tookplace at Westfield High School (WHS)on May 29.

Caitlin Hewett is the daughter ofDeirdre and Paul Hewett. A violinist,Caitlin also participated in winter andspring track at WHS and volunteeredas a French tutor. She will attendColby College in Maine.

Greg O’Brien is the son of Donnaand Daniel O’Brien. He is a soccerplayer and participated in the WHSmusic program as a bass guitar player.He will attend Fordham University inNew York City.

Maya Pincus, daughter of Jan Fineand Mitchell Pincus, received theBarry Judd Scholarship. Maya alsoreceived several Honor Awards, inaddition to participating in wintertrack and the wind ensemble.

Maya Pincus

Gregory O’Brien

Caitlin Hewett

Union County Peace CouncilTo Host Fair on Sat. August 3

CRANFORD — Union CountyPeace Council will host the fifth an-nual Union County Peace and WorldFriendship Fair on Saturday, August3 from noon to 6 p.m. in EastmanPlaza (the town clock park) alongNorth Avenue in downtown Cranford.This year’s fair will feature solo mu-sicians and bands, artwork, speakerson peace and ecology, performanceart and children’s activities. The raindate is August 10.

This event is accessible to publictransportation and there is free park-ing nearby.

The theme for this year’s fair is“Sowing Seeds of Peace and Com-munity” and many peace, environ-mental and social justice organiza-tions are invited to provide informa-tion and literature. Peace and eco-logically oriented vendors will haveitems available for sale.

Scheduled speakers include KenGale, co-host of the radio program“Eco-Logic” on WBAI; Larry Hamm,from People’s Organization forProgress; and Ken Dalton, from Vet-erans for Peace, among others.

The musicians and bands sched-uled include: Catherine Moon,Sharleen Leahey, the New Jersey In-dustrial Union Solidarity Singers,Spook Handy, Ingrid Heldt,Atmosferics, Joseph Strider, BellyRhythm, Melinda Davis, Alvin Madi-son, the Guitards and BTW.

The event commemorates the 63rdanniversary of the bombing ofHiroshima and Nagasaki, as part ofglobal events calling for nuclear dis-armament and building efforts to-ward peace and ecologicalsustainability worldwide.

The event is sponsored by UnionCounty Peace Council, theHiroshima/Nagasaki RemembranceCommittee, New Jersey Peace Ac-tion and Word Out!

For more information, [email protected],visit ucpeace.org or call Diane at (908)233-7344.

Lam’s Short StoryWins First NationallyWESTFIELD — Cynthia Lam,

daughter of Alicia and Raymond Lamof Westfield, won first place earlierthis year in the local Woman’s Clubof Westfield Youth Poetry Short Storycontest. She also went on to win firstplace recognition by the New JerseyState Federation of Women’s Clubs.The General Federation of Women’sClubs has now selected Cynthia as afirst place national winner.

The first place award recognizesCynthia’s short story entitled “OneLast Smile.” This is a story about anelderly, friendless, nursing home pa-tient who is taught love, happinessand kindness through the example ofa caring nurse.

Cynthia will enter 10th grade atWestfield High School in September.

ALL SMILES...Westfield’s CynthiaLam, a 10th grade student in WestfieldHigh School, won first place in a short-story contest. She is being lauded forher story, “One Last Smile.”


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Cranford Attorney Gets‘Hooked’ on Painting

By MARYLOU MORANOSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

CRANFORD — Cranford attorneyTheodosia Tamborlane has only beenpainting seriously for about five years,but in this short period of time, she hasproduced a body of work that rivals thatof artists who have been painting theirentire lives.

A healthcare attorney for more than30 years, Ms. Tamborlane was “perkingalong” when she decided to take a con-tinuing-education art class at UnionCounty College (UCC).

Continuing-education instructorBernice Shaw was impressed with herwork and encouraged her to take her arteducation one step further by enrollingin a degree program at UCC.

“She told me I had an ability for art,”Ms. Tamborlane – who had, up to that

time, expressed her creativity by knit-ting and crocheting – recalled.

“By the end of the first semester, I washooked,” she said.

This past May, Ms. Tamborlane re-ceived an Associates Degree in Fine Artsfrom UCC.

“I thank my[UCC] professor,George Hildrew,who taught me tolook where threecolors meet and towork with the ‘pushand pull’ of color,”she said.

This isn’t the firsttime Ms.Tamborlane has re-invented herself.

When she was inher 30s, she enrolledat Seton Hall LawSchool.

“I became an at-torney because I waspassionate aboutlaw,” she explained.

Ms. Tamborlane currently works parttime in the offices of Morales, Mendoncaand Pagan, LLC, in Union, where sheinterprets regulatory and contractualhealthcare law for hospitals, doctors andprivate citizens.

Working part time as a lawyer affordsher about 20 hours a week to hone herart.

Her creativity serves as a mirror forher life. Dramatic color conveys herpersonal message – life is indeed repletewith second chances, opportune mo-ments and fortuitous U-turns along theway.

In her many paintings depicting scenesof nature, she demonstrates that life isfull of promise.

Recently, Ms. Tamborlane has beenworking on a new artistic concept called“Lifetimes,” a series of 10 canvases –one for each possible decade of a person’slife.

These paintings, which are usuallycommissioned, reflect her understand-ing of the uniqueness of each individuallife.

“I paint each decade in a differentformat to show the changes we [experi-ence] as we go through life,” she ex-plained. “My paintings also show thereare things we take with us into eternity,.”

Ms. Tamborlane has exhibited herpaintings throughout the state, includingat the Watchung Arts Center, where shewon first prize this spring in a juriedshow for her painting, “Autumn Col-lage.”

Her work has also appeared at the

Artist’s Framer, the Tomusalo Gallery,the Cranford Library and the ValleyNational Bank, all in Cranford, as wellas at the Somerset County Cultural andHeritage Gallery in Somerville and theUnion County Senior Art Show.

Currently, Ms. Tamborlane’s work ison exhibit at twosolo shows.

Her paintings areat the New JerseyBar Association(NJBA) in NewBrunswick through-out the summer.

The NJBA showis in conjunctionwith theorganization’s 50thAnniversary Cel-ebration.

Her “Colors ofNature” exhibit isfeatured at the PearlStreet Gallery, lo-cated at the UnionCounty Cultural andHeritage Affairs De-

partment building at 633 Pearl Street inElizabeth. This show runs until the endof July.

Seven of Ms. Tamborlane’s paintingsappear in the current edition of the Liter-ary Arts Society of Union County’s liter-ary arts magazine, The Sheaf.

A member of the Contemporary ArtsGroup of New Jersey, Ms. Tamborlane’swork is in private collections in the U.S.and Holland.

Painting has turned out to be a “won-derful happenstance,” Ms. Tamborlanesaid.

“I feel creative whenever I have apaintbrush in my hand, and I am so gladthat my paintings are enjoyed by somany people,” she said.

Cranford artistTheo Tamborlane’s “Lifetimes”

“I paint each decade in a differentformat to show the changes we [expe-rience] as we go through life. Mypaintings also show there are thingswe take with us into eternity.”

~ Theo Tamborlane

Theodosia Tamborlane

Carriage House Series HonorsFW Publisher Tom Plante

Pineda ConservatoryPresents Cinderella

CRANFORD — The Pineda Sum-mer Musical Theater Conservatory pre-sents Rodgers and Hammerstein’smagical musical Cinderella tonight,July 31, at the Cranford Dramatic Club(CDC) Theatre in Cranford.

Starring in the title role of Cinderellaare Hannah Clark of Scotch Plains, andVictoria Treboschi and Cara Costa ofCranford. Performing as the Prince, areZachory Love of Cranford, and BenBouffard of Green Brook.

The role of the Godmother will be

performed by Aleta Nadonly ofCranford. The role of the King will beplayed by Ryan Kiel of Scotch Plains,and the role of the Queen is double castwith Liz Greismer of Westfield andBethany McDermott of Cranford. Therole of the Stepmother is also doublecast and will be performed by ArielCohen of Rahway and NicoleZimmerman of Westfield.

The roles of the stepsisters are sharedby Nina Buck and Cheyenne Pellicoroof Greenbrook, Kelly Ryan of Cranford,and Marissa Garrity of Westfield. TheHerald will be performed by LaurenCosta and Dylan Randazzo of Cranford,and the Chef will be sung by Ryan Burdof Cranford.

“We had a very talented group ofyoung actors auditioning for parts,”said Valerie Pineda, program directorand co-director of Cinderella. “Thissummer we have double and triple castsome roles in the show because thetalent level was so high. We are pleasedto offer so many talented students anopportunity to train and perform.”

Students in the program attend dailydance and acting classes, as well asrehearse for Cinderella.

Other featured Cinderella perform-ers with solos include Kelsey Kilpatrick,Amanda Poszyler, Jaime Zielenbach,Arielle Paredes, Gabrielle Siani, Jor-dan Burd, Kevin Dinglestedt and ErinMcAuliffe of Cranford; Jennifer Raba,Kathryn Capodanno, JessicaZimmerman, Kimberly Zimmermanand Kimberly Roth of Westfield; JuliaVan Etten and Nicole Van Etten ofScotch Plains; and Shannon Barry ofElkridge, Md.

The production is co-produced andco-directed by Ms. Pineda and PatriciaPineda, and choreographed by MelissaPantojan.

Performances will take place at theCDC Theatre at 78 Winans Avenue inCranford at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July29 and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on July 30and 31. Tickets can be purchased at thedoor or in advance by calling (908)731-1377. Adults are $9 and studentsand children are $7. Attendees whobring their pool ID memberships fromany area swim club will receive $2 offof any matinee.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON…New Jersey Workshop for the Arts in Westfieldteacher Kerry Stubbs plays “Father,” the God figure in Children of Eden, whilehis son Orion plays the role of Young Cain. The family-friendly musical runs fromnow through August 2 at 7:30 p.m. at David Brearley High School in Kenilworth.

Pafumi of WF, NJWA TeacherStar in Children of Eden

WESTFIELD — The CommunityActors Student Theater of Kenilworth(CAST) will present the family-friendlymusical Children of Eden on Thursday,Friday and Saturday nights, from nowthrough August 2. The curtain rises at7:30 p.m. in the air-conditioned audito-rium of David Brearley High School,located on Monroe Avenue inKenilworth.

Children of Eden, freely based on thestory of Genesis, is a heartfelt and hu-morous examination of the age-oldconflict between parents and children.This year’s cast has a real-life fatherand son performing in the productiontogether: Kerry Stubbs and his son,Orion, of Kenilworth. Mr. Stubbs playsthe demanding role of “Father,” theGod figure of the musical, and 11-year-old Orion portrays the role of YoungCain. The rising sixth grader at HardingSchool in Kenilworth was asked spe-cifically to audition for the show.

Mr. Stubbs, a Westminster ChoirCollege graduate, is a music teacher atSchool 14 in Elizabeth and a teacher atWestfield’s New Jersey Workshop forthe Arts. Mr. Stubbs mentioned that ittakes a “special kind of voice” to play

the role of the God figure. Classified asa dramatic tenor, he is used to singingopera as well as Broadway musicals.

Producer/Director Karyn Mack saidthe cast of 40 has been working hard topresent this extraordinary show for thecommunity. Preteens, teens and adultsfrom all over Union County auditionedfor the production and have been re-hearsing for the past four weeks.

Leading the cast is Christine Nelson(Eve/Mama Noah) and Cory Pinto(Adam/Noah), both of Kenilworth.They are supported by Tom Kurzman(older Cain/Japheth) of Kenilworth andMia Pafumi (Yonah) of Westfield.

Earlier in June, Mia, a 2008 WestfieldHigh School graduate, donated the pro-ceeds of her senior project, a DisneyPrincesses Sing-A-Long, to CAST.because of all that the group has donefor her as a performer.

General admission tickets for theshow are $10, with discounted pricingof $8 for children (13 and under) andsenior citizens. Tickets may be pur-chased at the door or by calling either(908) 875-1067 or (908) 276-0180 orby visiting the CAST Web site atcastinfo.org.

Area Students Belt OutThe Best of Les Misérables

By CHRISTINA M. HINKESpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

CRANFORD — A sizeable cast ofarea high school and elementaryschool students rampaged enthusias-tically through Alain Boublil andClaude-Michel Schönberg’s praisedoperetta based on Victor Hugo’s book,“Les Misérables,” set in the upheavalin 19th Century France, on Thursdaynight. The stage at Cranford DramaClub (CDC) Theatre in Cranford is apodium for the students at PinedaConservatory of the Performing Arts,a paid summer school for aspiringactors, to practice their skills andshow off whatthey’ve got. Andboy do these kidshave some pipes.

Jennifer Dilzellof Westfield HighSchool (WHS) asFantine, the es-tranged mother ofCosette, is hon-ored with singing two of the show’smost prized songs, “I Dreamed aDream” and “Come to Me,” and shebelts them out with her sweet, me-lodic voice. She is a powerhouse, andFantine’s small part yearns for thePinedas to rewrite the script to letFantine live just so the audience canhear more. Jennifer’s beauty andshow-stopping voice has Broadwaybaby written all over it.

Cosette’s savior, Jean Valjean, issuperbly cast with Brian Hart of PingrySchool. Brian’s strong voice and rangegets him through a role that probablyhas the most singing parts in the musi-cal. His beard helps him appear mucholder than his teenage years, and helends a certain quiet sadness to Valjeanthat gets across his inner turmoil ofrunning from the police while tryingto make a home for Cosette.

His nemesis – the policeman Javert,who relentlessly hunts Valjean formore than 10 years after he hasskipped out on parole – is played

masterfully by Billy Geltzeiler. Hisstocky frame, stoic look and deepvocals are perfectly matched forJavert’s heart-of-stone persona.

Catalina Gaglioti of WHS, playingEponine, the street urchin pining forMarius, brings chills even in the swel-tering heat when she sings the ballad“On My Own.” She was recentlynamed the National High School TeenIdol and is working on recording herfirst album. After hearing her powerthrough some tough songs, it’s un-derstandable that she’s made it to thatlevel.

Playing Eponine’s love interest,Marius, BobbyO’Rourke has theclassic good looksfor the doe-eyedstudent who is inlove with Cosette,ably portrayed bySarah Szollar ofWHS.

Tony Mowatt,graduating senior of Union HighSchool and enrolling in Kean Univer-sity, as the leader of the student revo-lution, Enjolras, is a tour de force in aminor role that could be looked over.However, he gives a memorable per-formance, and his operatic voicepushes through the audience evenwhen the sound system cut off.

Another impressive minor role ofone of the “little people,” Gavroche,is performed in a spirited rendition byfifth grader Dylan Randazzo ofCranford. The two greedy innkeepersThenardier (Daneil Berman) and hiswife (Pamela Marks) are portrayed asa comedic and boisterous pair.

Fans of Les Miz will get a kick outof the large cast’s enthusiasm andhear some of the area’s best voices.For those who missed this four-dayrun that ended Sunday, you will havea chance to hear this same group in acabaret show on August 1 at 8 p.m. atthe CDC Theatre, located at 78 WinansAvenue in Cranford.

By MARYLOU MORANOSpecially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

FANWOOD — The CarriageHouse Poetry Series (CHPS) dedi-cated its July 15 meeting to the cel-ebration of the poetic accomplish-ments of Fanwood resident TomPlante.

This year marks the 20th anniver-sary of the publication of Mr. Plante’spoetry anthology, Exit 13 Magazine.

Mr. Plante alsoco-chairs theFanwood ArtsCouncil (FAC) withCHPS Founder andfellow Fanwoodresident AdeleKenny.

Ms. Kenny intro-duced Mr. Plante toan audience of ap-proximately 75 at-tendees.

“Tom [has a] re-sponsibility andreverence for allthat God has cre-ated,” Ms. Kennysaid.

“He is a kind,humble, self-com-posed, gentlemanand gentle man,” she said.

Freeholder Bette Jane Kowalskipresented Mr. Plante with a resolu-tion passed by the Union CountyBoard of Chosen Freeholders con-gratulating him on his work as editorand publisher of Exit 13 Magazine.

Citing Mr. Plante’s 20 years ofservice to the cultural arts commu-nity, she thanked him for “sharing hislove of poetry with us and the world.”

Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahrpresented Mr. Plante with a resolu-tion from the township acknowledg-ing his contributions, thanking himfor finding the time to fill his lifewith poetry and bringing its spiritforth in such a way that it can beenjoyed and loved by all.

Mr. Plante’s wife, Patricia, read aresolution passed by the New JerseySenate and General Assembly to Mr.Plante.

FAC member Gary Szelc, who isaffectionately referred to by CHPSmembers as the “resident balladeer,”read a ballad he wrote about Mr.Plante, which was modeled after the“Big Bad John” song originally re-leased by Jimmy Dean in 1962.

Mr. Szelc enlisted the the audiencein his version of a “Greek chorus” tohelp him recite “Big Bad Tom.”

Mr. Plante gave the genesis of Exit13 Magazine, explaining that he hadpublished a similar poetry anthologyin Berkeley, Calif., where he hadstudied geography at the Universityof California.

“I’m pleasantly surprised by theturnout for the reading,” Mr. Plantetold The Westfield Leader and TheScotch Plains-Fanwood Times. “Ididn’t know it would be a roast ofsorts, with neighbors, in-laws, my

wife and my sister, realtors, mem-bers of the Fanwood-Scotch PlainsRotary Club, Mayor Mahr and Free-holder Kowalski, my printers andpoets from all over the place.

“It’s great to have such a mix ofpeople get together to enjoy poetryat the Kuran Center,” he added. “Ican’t believe it’s been 20 years sinceI sat at the kitchen table pasting upthe very first issue of Exit 13 Maga-

zine. I appreciate allthe encouragementand support that I’vereceived over theyears. What a jour-ney!”

The title of thepublication comesfrom the New Jer-sey Turnpike Exit inElizabeth where Mr.Plante lived prior tomoving to Fanwood.

Exit 13 Magazinealso includesphotographs ofvarious “Exit 13”signs fromthroughout theworld, combiningMr. Plante’s love ofgeography and

poetry.Mr. Plante read multiple poems

that have appeared throughout theyears.

He draws upon his family, histravels, the places he has worked andlived and his love of gardening, whichhe calls “taking care of the otherplants,” as inspiration for his work.

A former journalist for The CourierNews, Mr. Plante’s writing has alsoappeared in The Journal of NewJersey Poets, The Edison LiteraryReview, The Home Planet News andother journals and anthologies.

Exit 13 Magazine can be purchasedby contacting Mr. Plante [email protected].

Tom Plante, Exit 13 Magazine

Christina Hinke for The Leader and The TimesGOODNESS PREVAILS…In Act II of the Pineda Conservatory of the Perform-ing Arts’ production of Les Misérables, held Thursday night in Cranford, JeanValjean (Brian Hart), left, decides to go down the path of righteousness by lettingthe captured Javert (Billy Geltzeiler) have his freedom.

See it all on the web in color . . .www.goleader.com

Next Week:The Leader/ Times interviews...

Catalina Gaglioti ofWestfield High School

Paper Mill Playhouse,Millburn Agree to Deal

The following e-mail was received onMonday afternoon from a representativeof Paper Mill Playhouse.

Valued Member of the Press,At 4:30 p.m. today [Monday], Pa-

per Mill Playhouse took the greateststep in our financial turnaround. Af-ter more than a year of discussion,meetings, negotiations, hearings andhard work, Paper Mill Playhouseclosed with the Township of Millburnon the sale of our property [for $9million.] Paper Mill Playhouse hasanother chance to succeed, this timewith a fresh financial start.

A big thank you to members of thepress who supported the theater dur-ing this process, especially those whocovered the sale/lease back. Here’s to70 more years of Paper Mill Play-house!

Shayne Austin MillerDirector of Press and Public Relations