Last year The Observer reviewed a film written and directed by Nick Gaglia about his experiences at an abusive drug rehabilitation center that was in Secaucus.
On April 24, Congress held their second hearing on "Child Abuse and Deceptive Marketing by Residential Programs for teens."
During the hearing Managing Director Forensic Audits and Special Investigations U.S. Government Accountability Office Greg Kutz cited the film to George Miller (D-CA), the chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee.
The Committee held a hearing to examine allegations of child abuse and deceptive marketing at residential programs for teens, including boot camps, wilderness camps, therapeutic boarding schools, and behavior modification facilities. The hearing also examined legislation to prevent child abuse in these programs by establishing standards for the programs.
The committee heard about the results of undercover work from the Government Accountability Office and from individuals who attended residential programs when they were teenagers.
For more information see the Web site http://edlabor.house.gov/hearings/fc-2008-04-24.shtml and http://www.cafety.org/.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Corzine signs to help stop lead poisoning
TRENTON – Stressing the need to protect the health of New Jersey’s children and building on a report by the Public Advocate, Governor Jon S. Corzine today signed an Executive Order to significantly strengthen efforts to eliminate lead exposure hazards.
“The Public Advocate’s report is quite compelling,” Governor Corzine said. “Lead poisoning is a public health crisis that has irreversible effects on children and even adults, and we need to do all we can to address this crisis head-on. The Executive Order I am signing will establish a comprehensive program, drawing on coordinated resources from multiple agencies at the State and local level to expand our efforts to prevent lead poisoning, treat lead-poisoned children, assist affected families, and more effectively remediate lead-burdened housing.”
Lead exposure can cause brain damage, developmental delays, reduced IQ, reading and learning disabilities, behavioral problems, hearing impairments, and hyperactivity. Lead exposure can also impair the development and functioning of vital organs and can result in convulsions, coma, and even death.
A field investigation conducted by the Public Advocate’s staff found lead dust levels exceeding the federal standard in 85 of 104, or 82 percent of, homes tested in five of the New Jersey cities with the highest concentration of lead-poisoned children: Trenton, Camden, Newark, East Orange and Irvington. Together, these five cities accounted for 31 percent of all reported lead poisonings in New Jersey in FY 2005.
In addition, most of the addresses tested had already been subject to lead inspections and/or abatements and had been cleared for occupancy. Investigators also found shoddy abatement and clean-up work and interviewed families of children whose blood lead levels were higher after the lead problem in their home had supposedly been cleaned up.
In FY 2005, more than 4,000 New Jersey children were diagnosed with levels of lead in their blood at or above the federal level of concern based on the federal standard of 10 micrograms per deciliter, mostly from ingesting lead-based paint chips or lead dust from deteriorating paint in their homes.
“We can prevent our children from being sickened, suffering brain damage and even dying due to an environmental contamination in their homes,” said Public Advocate Ronald K. Chen. “I commend all of the parties involved, and especially Governor Corzine, for recognizing the seriousness of this problem and for taking these important first steps to solving it – forever.”
The specific problems identified in the Public Advocate’s investigation include:
In FY 2005, of all the children under six years of age screened for lead in New Jersey, 2.4 percent, or 4,048 children, were found to have a level at or above 10 micrograms per deciliter of whole blood, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) level of concern. While this number improves every year, it is still unacceptably high.
New Jersey’s housing stock is old, with more than half built before the sale of lead paint was banned in 1978. While the lead poisoning problem is statewide it is particularly bad in older urban areas.
According to the CDC, New Jersey’s rate of poisoning is not only above the national average, but also above other northeastern states, such as New York and Massachusetts, that have similarly old housing stocks.
It has taken months and even years for a home to be cleaned up, or abated, after a child is first known to be lead poisoned.
A review of all records from the five selected cities over the past ten years revealed that local health inspectors ordered abatements in only about 60 percent of the cases where a child had been poisoned and, of those, about 20 percent never happened.
Abatement contractors have at times in the past been able to get away with shoddy, inferior work because the standards governing their performance are insufficiently precise.
Children are being re-poisoned in homes that should have been lead-safe.
Childhood lead poisoning significantly burdens State resources because it increases health care and educational costs and requires the State to provide long-term services to individuals who suffer from disabilities or behavioral problems due to exposure.
Families are often left without information, financial assistance, and housing alternatives. Although funding is available to relocate families to lead-safe housing, fewer than 100 families have been able to use this funding in the last three years.
“Families, especially in urban areas, have enough to worry about on a daily basis, without wondering if their homes are killing them,” Senator Ronald L. Rice, D-Essex, and Chairman of the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee, said. “Lead poisoning is a silent epidemic in New Jersey’s urban areas. Over the years, I have sponsored legislation to address lead poisoning issues. More needs to be done, and I am eager to work with all the State departments on this issue. I believe that we have an obligation to protect our citizens from lead poisoning and assist those who have been exposed to it.”
“The Public Advocate’s report is quite compelling,” Governor Corzine said. “Lead poisoning is a public health crisis that has irreversible effects on children and even adults, and we need to do all we can to address this crisis head-on. The Executive Order I am signing will establish a comprehensive program, drawing on coordinated resources from multiple agencies at the State and local level to expand our efforts to prevent lead poisoning, treat lead-poisoned children, assist affected families, and more effectively remediate lead-burdened housing.”
Lead exposure can cause brain damage, developmental delays, reduced IQ, reading and learning disabilities, behavioral problems, hearing impairments, and hyperactivity. Lead exposure can also impair the development and functioning of vital organs and can result in convulsions, coma, and even death.
A field investigation conducted by the Public Advocate’s staff found lead dust levels exceeding the federal standard in 85 of 104, or 82 percent of, homes tested in five of the New Jersey cities with the highest concentration of lead-poisoned children: Trenton, Camden, Newark, East Orange and Irvington. Together, these five cities accounted for 31 percent of all reported lead poisonings in New Jersey in FY 2005.
In addition, most of the addresses tested had already been subject to lead inspections and/or abatements and had been cleared for occupancy. Investigators also found shoddy abatement and clean-up work and interviewed families of children whose blood lead levels were higher after the lead problem in their home had supposedly been cleaned up.
In FY 2005, more than 4,000 New Jersey children were diagnosed with levels of lead in their blood at or above the federal level of concern based on the federal standard of 10 micrograms per deciliter, mostly from ingesting lead-based paint chips or lead dust from deteriorating paint in their homes.
“We can prevent our children from being sickened, suffering brain damage and even dying due to an environmental contamination in their homes,” said Public Advocate Ronald K. Chen. “I commend all of the parties involved, and especially Governor Corzine, for recognizing the seriousness of this problem and for taking these important first steps to solving it – forever.”
The specific problems identified in the Public Advocate’s investigation include:
In FY 2005, of all the children under six years of age screened for lead in New Jersey, 2.4 percent, or 4,048 children, were found to have a level at or above 10 micrograms per deciliter of whole blood, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) level of concern. While this number improves every year, it is still unacceptably high.
New Jersey’s housing stock is old, with more than half built before the sale of lead paint was banned in 1978. While the lead poisoning problem is statewide it is particularly bad in older urban areas.
According to the CDC, New Jersey’s rate of poisoning is not only above the national average, but also above other northeastern states, such as New York and Massachusetts, that have similarly old housing stocks.
It has taken months and even years for a home to be cleaned up, or abated, after a child is first known to be lead poisoned.
A review of all records from the five selected cities over the past ten years revealed that local health inspectors ordered abatements in only about 60 percent of the cases where a child had been poisoned and, of those, about 20 percent never happened.
Abatement contractors have at times in the past been able to get away with shoddy, inferior work because the standards governing their performance are insufficiently precise.
Children are being re-poisoned in homes that should have been lead-safe.
Childhood lead poisoning significantly burdens State resources because it increases health care and educational costs and requires the State to provide long-term services to individuals who suffer from disabilities or behavioral problems due to exposure.
Families are often left without information, financial assistance, and housing alternatives. Although funding is available to relocate families to lead-safe housing, fewer than 100 families have been able to use this funding in the last three years.
“Families, especially in urban areas, have enough to worry about on a daily basis, without wondering if their homes are killing them,” Senator Ronald L. Rice, D-Essex, and Chairman of the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee, said. “Lead poisoning is a silent epidemic in New Jersey’s urban areas. Over the years, I have sponsored legislation to address lead poisoning issues. More needs to be done, and I am eager to work with all the State departments on this issue. I believe that we have an obligation to protect our citizens from lead poisoning and assist those who have been exposed to it.”
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
War Tapes
Here's a clip from "War Tapes," this week's entertainment article on the intensely moving documentary. The story is of three National Guardsmen who were deployed in 2003 for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
North Arlington attorney on the Ole Cafe
Re: Applicant F3 Foods LLC d/b/a/ Ole Café
Property 379 Ridge Road, North Arlington
Dear Mr. Vazquez:
As you are aware, this office is counsel to the Planning Board and Zoning Board of North Arlington, Borough of North Arlington. A copy of your letter, dated April 17, 2008, which was addressed to the Mayor and Council was provided to my office. As your letter includes references to the Borough’s Land Use Boards, I am providing a response on behalf of the said Boards.
In general, land use and redevelopment are a complex matter. Zoning ordinances and zoning districts are established by the Governing Body to ensure orderly development of the Borough. Several administrations ago, in 1999, the Borough declared the Ridge Road Business District as an-area-in-need-of-redevelopment. The Planning Board and Zoning Board must legally operate within the boundaries of the law. This not only protects the Borough, but it also protects the overall general welfare of the community as we as the applicant itself. If the Planning Board or Zoning Board does not follow the process established under the law, it’s possible that an applicant could be harmed to its detriment as any approved granted may be overturned by a court of law if an interested party challenged the Boards’ actions.
Unfortunately, you made a business decision to choose a location on Ridge Road (i.e. the Cemetery Zoning District) , which does not permit eateries. Had you chosen a location to the north or to the south of the Cemetery Zone on Ridge Road, your proposed use would have been a permitted use and there would have been less legal steps in the process. The Borough’s Ridge Road Redevelopment Plan actually encourages eateries in the northern and southern zoning districts along Ridge Road. It appears that you entered into a lease agreement without regard or consideration of the Borough’s zoning ordinance. Retention of legal counsel by you would have been beneficial given the fact that you chose a location for which the use was not permitted.
As related to your statements about the lack of response by the Board, based on my records, I offer the following:
(i) Nov. 7, 2007 – Robert Kairys letter to you advising you of the process to permit an eatery in the Cemetery Zone.
(ii) Dec. 14 2007 – You completed a Planning Board application
(iii) Dec. 17, 2007 – Planning Board Hearing, which recommended that the Governing Body revise the Cemetery Zone permit your requested use. At this hearing, the balance of the approval process was explained to the representative that you had attend in your place.
(iv) Jan. 13, 2008 – In response to your email to me, an email was sent to you once again explaining the approval process. Presumably, there was still a lack of understanding on your part notwithstanding that the process was explained to you and/or your representative, in writing and verbally on at least three occasions.
(v) Jan. 21, 2008 – Adoption of the Planning Board’s Resolution, based on its December 17, 2007 action.
(vi) March 17, 2008 – Appearance before the Planning Board as required by all Ridge Road business applicants (review of awning, signage, lighting, etc.)
As per the above time line, as of the date of your application, your matter was processed and approved by the Governing Body and the Planning Board in the three month time frame, which is consistent with the timeframe you expected as set forth in your letter, notwithstanding you required what amounted to a zone change to permit your use in the Cemetery Zone. Had you chosen a location which permitted your use, your matter would have been processed within one month.
Lastly, your letter talks about a “substantial investment of $22,000,” which you do not further explain as to how these monies were expended. As you know, your cost to get through the Board approval process was less than $200.00, which was the application and escrow fee. Architectural plans were not presented nor were you represented by legal counsel or an architect. As such, if the $22,000 was expended on rent payments, these payments could have been avoided if you assessed, before signing a lease, that the location you chose did not permit your intended use.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Very truly yours,
Charles H. Sarlo
EDITOR'S NOTE: Below is Mr. Vazquez's letter to The Observer
To the publisher:
In response to the article last week in The Observer about redevelopment challenges in North Arlington, I agree with the fact that the blight of Ridge Road is of great frustration to myself and many fellow neighbors that I spoke to. I disagree with the reasons/excuses of our Town officials as to why the blight exists. Look at what neighboring towns like Lyndhurst and Kearny have accomplished with their main thoroughfare, even during a slow economy. They manage to have many successful businesses available for their local residents. Lets try to find reasons to make projects more timely and cost effective for small business owners who do not have unlimited resources, but do have a vested interest in the town in which they reside. Let us consider the new businesses coming in to town as investors and treat them as such.
For township officials to say “there is nothing we can do about it” is an indication of how ill prepared our leadership is. Our leaders need to produce results. By overcoming the challenges and putting the right resources in place to accomplish the task, we can solve the problems that face North Arlington. Reasons about what you can’t do should be replaced by ideas on how results can be achieved.
Having personally tried to invest in a small business on Ridge Road I encountered an inefficient bureaucracy which caused a 30 percent increase in the development costs. Had this business venture been presented in the towns of Lyndhurst or Kearny these extra expenses would not have been incurred. In addition to these added expenditures, which ultimately made the project impossible to pursue, when I approached township officials and made them aware of these obstacles and requested their help to streamline the process, my request seem to fall on deaf ears.
Going to our leaders and requesting their assistance and having no one take ownership for the problems being presented is an indication of how poorly prepared our current elected officials are.
Property 379 Ridge Road, North Arlington
Dear Mr. Vazquez:
As you are aware, this office is counsel to the Planning Board and Zoning Board of North Arlington, Borough of North Arlington. A copy of your letter, dated April 17, 2008, which was addressed to the Mayor and Council was provided to my office. As your letter includes references to the Borough’s Land Use Boards, I am providing a response on behalf of the said Boards.
In general, land use and redevelopment are a complex matter. Zoning ordinances and zoning districts are established by the Governing Body to ensure orderly development of the Borough. Several administrations ago, in 1999, the Borough declared the Ridge Road Business District as an-area-in-need-of-redevelopment. The Planning Board and Zoning Board must legally operate within the boundaries of the law. This not only protects the Borough, but it also protects the overall general welfare of the community as we as the applicant itself. If the Planning Board or Zoning Board does not follow the process established under the law, it’s possible that an applicant could be harmed to its detriment as any approved granted may be overturned by a court of law if an interested party challenged the Boards’ actions.
Unfortunately, you made a business decision to choose a location on Ridge Road (i.e. the Cemetery Zoning District) , which does not permit eateries. Had you chosen a location to the north or to the south of the Cemetery Zone on Ridge Road, your proposed use would have been a permitted use and there would have been less legal steps in the process. The Borough’s Ridge Road Redevelopment Plan actually encourages eateries in the northern and southern zoning districts along Ridge Road. It appears that you entered into a lease agreement without regard or consideration of the Borough’s zoning ordinance. Retention of legal counsel by you would have been beneficial given the fact that you chose a location for which the use was not permitted.
As related to your statements about the lack of response by the Board, based on my records, I offer the following:
(i) Nov. 7, 2007 – Robert Kairys letter to you advising you of the process to permit an eatery in the Cemetery Zone.
(ii) Dec. 14 2007 – You completed a Planning Board application
(iii) Dec. 17, 2007 – Planning Board Hearing, which recommended that the Governing Body revise the Cemetery Zone permit your requested use. At this hearing, the balance of the approval process was explained to the representative that you had attend in your place.
(iv) Jan. 13, 2008 – In response to your email to me, an email was sent to you once again explaining the approval process. Presumably, there was still a lack of understanding on your part notwithstanding that the process was explained to you and/or your representative, in writing and verbally on at least three occasions.
(v) Jan. 21, 2008 – Adoption of the Planning Board’s Resolution, based on its December 17, 2007 action.
(vi) March 17, 2008 – Appearance before the Planning Board as required by all Ridge Road business applicants (review of awning, signage, lighting, etc.)
As per the above time line, as of the date of your application, your matter was processed and approved by the Governing Body and the Planning Board in the three month time frame, which is consistent with the timeframe you expected as set forth in your letter, notwithstanding you required what amounted to a zone change to permit your use in the Cemetery Zone. Had you chosen a location which permitted your use, your matter would have been processed within one month.
Lastly, your letter talks about a “substantial investment of $22,000,” which you do not further explain as to how these monies were expended. As you know, your cost to get through the Board approval process was less than $200.00, which was the application and escrow fee. Architectural plans were not presented nor were you represented by legal counsel or an architect. As such, if the $22,000 was expended on rent payments, these payments could have been avoided if you assessed, before signing a lease, that the location you chose did not permit your intended use.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Very truly yours,
Charles H. Sarlo
EDITOR'S NOTE: Below is Mr. Vazquez's letter to The Observer
To the publisher:
In response to the article last week in The Observer about redevelopment challenges in North Arlington, I agree with the fact that the blight of Ridge Road is of great frustration to myself and many fellow neighbors that I spoke to. I disagree with the reasons/excuses of our Town officials as to why the blight exists. Look at what neighboring towns like Lyndhurst and Kearny have accomplished with their main thoroughfare, even during a slow economy. They manage to have many successful businesses available for their local residents. Lets try to find reasons to make projects more timely and cost effective for small business owners who do not have unlimited resources, but do have a vested interest in the town in which they reside. Let us consider the new businesses coming in to town as investors and treat them as such.
For township officials to say “there is nothing we can do about it” is an indication of how ill prepared our leadership is. Our leaders need to produce results. By overcoming the challenges and putting the right resources in place to accomplish the task, we can solve the problems that face North Arlington. Reasons about what you can’t do should be replaced by ideas on how results can be achieved.
Having personally tried to invest in a small business on Ridge Road I encountered an inefficient bureaucracy which caused a 30 percent increase in the development costs. Had this business venture been presented in the towns of Lyndhurst or Kearny these extra expenses would not have been incurred. In addition to these added expenditures, which ultimately made the project impossible to pursue, when I approached township officials and made them aware of these obstacles and requested their help to streamline the process, my request seem to fall on deaf ears.
Going to our leaders and requesting their assistance and having no one take ownership for the problems being presented is an indication of how poorly prepared our current elected officials are.
Odilo Vazquez
North Arlington
North Arlington
Redevelopment in North Arlington update
Letter to the Publisher:
The issue of responsible and accountable redevelopment of commercial property here in North Arlington is an important issue for every homeowner.
As a state certified building inspector with over four decades of employment in the construction and maintenance of public facilities, the need to develop public/private partnerships that draws incentives for both the seller as well as the developer will determine our success with each and every application that comes before the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
As I stated in my interview, several factors need to be considered to eliminate long-term vacancies of any property:
• A realistic price range of property in question.
• Does the property offer a profitable opportunity for the developer upon purchase?
• Is there a cooperative effort by all concerned to foster legitimate redevelopment?
• Is the borough enforcing existing code to maintain the property’s upkeep?
In your article, you focused on properties in which many of the challenges mentioned above clearly exist. The question of interest and opportunity for any developer lies in the ability to make a reasonable profit on investment. If sellers are unrealistic in the value of the property, they will linger hopelessly on the market until a price reduction is realized.
It is the Borough’s responsibility to ensure that every commercial property is up to code.
Whether vacant or occupied, an aggressive plan of inspection of these properties is essential in maintaining the character and value of the property in question. Lapses in maintenance occur when properties become unoccupied. This is no reason or excuse for this municipality not to aggressively fine any owner that lets a property slip into disrepair. I urge this governing body to keep this in mind given the current state of the housing market here in New Jersey and across the country.
The North Arlington Zoning Board encourages those interested in developing certain properties to come before the board with a plan that makes sense for the community. We have been diligent in maintaining the integrity of the master plan while seeking the kind of investment that will enhance the values of all homeowners. An example of that kind of development is the Commerce Bank along Ridge Road which replaced Midas Muffler.
The North Arlington Zoning Board of Adjustment consists of volunteer residents who give of their time and energy to review applications and render decisions based on the strength of that application. That same thought process was used when we approved plans for a storage facility on the site of the old Spring Air Mattress Company along Schuyler Avenue.
Given current market conditions and the state of the economy, these factors weigh heavily in one’s decision to develop and build. The correction in prices we see today could in fact slow the process while giving the board time to review all aspects of any application in a way that protects the community.
I want to thank Observer Editor Celeste Regal for allowing me as well as board attorney Charles Sarlo to explain this process and the specifics surrounding some of the parcels discussed. It’s important that the public realize the function of the zoning board is to grant or reject variances as well as interpretation of the zoning map and ordinances. Those applicants unhappy with the board’s decision can appeal to the governing body.
Keeping to the integrity of the master plan as well as approving those applications that enhance the community is the goal of this body. I welcome any North Arlington residents to come to our meetings and watch for yourself how we conduct ourselves as your representatives in regards to these important issues and the applications before the body.
Nicholas Antonicello Sr.
Chairman, Zoning Board of Adjustment
North Arlington
The issue of responsible and accountable redevelopment of commercial property here in North Arlington is an important issue for every homeowner.
As a state certified building inspector with over four decades of employment in the construction and maintenance of public facilities, the need to develop public/private partnerships that draws incentives for both the seller as well as the developer will determine our success with each and every application that comes before the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
As I stated in my interview, several factors need to be considered to eliminate long-term vacancies of any property:
• A realistic price range of property in question.
• Does the property offer a profitable opportunity for the developer upon purchase?
• Is there a cooperative effort by all concerned to foster legitimate redevelopment?
• Is the borough enforcing existing code to maintain the property’s upkeep?
In your article, you focused on properties in which many of the challenges mentioned above clearly exist. The question of interest and opportunity for any developer lies in the ability to make a reasonable profit on investment. If sellers are unrealistic in the value of the property, they will linger hopelessly on the market until a price reduction is realized.
It is the Borough’s responsibility to ensure that every commercial property is up to code.
Whether vacant or occupied, an aggressive plan of inspection of these properties is essential in maintaining the character and value of the property in question. Lapses in maintenance occur when properties become unoccupied. This is no reason or excuse for this municipality not to aggressively fine any owner that lets a property slip into disrepair. I urge this governing body to keep this in mind given the current state of the housing market here in New Jersey and across the country.
The North Arlington Zoning Board encourages those interested in developing certain properties to come before the board with a plan that makes sense for the community. We have been diligent in maintaining the integrity of the master plan while seeking the kind of investment that will enhance the values of all homeowners. An example of that kind of development is the Commerce Bank along Ridge Road which replaced Midas Muffler.
The North Arlington Zoning Board of Adjustment consists of volunteer residents who give of their time and energy to review applications and render decisions based on the strength of that application. That same thought process was used when we approved plans for a storage facility on the site of the old Spring Air Mattress Company along Schuyler Avenue.
Given current market conditions and the state of the economy, these factors weigh heavily in one’s decision to develop and build. The correction in prices we see today could in fact slow the process while giving the board time to review all aspects of any application in a way that protects the community.
I want to thank Observer Editor Celeste Regal for allowing me as well as board attorney Charles Sarlo to explain this process and the specifics surrounding some of the parcels discussed. It’s important that the public realize the function of the zoning board is to grant or reject variances as well as interpretation of the zoning map and ordinances. Those applicants unhappy with the board’s decision can appeal to the governing body.
Keeping to the integrity of the master plan as well as approving those applications that enhance the community is the goal of this body. I welcome any North Arlington residents to come to our meetings and watch for yourself how we conduct ourselves as your representatives in regards to these important issues and the applications before the body.
Nicholas Antonicello Sr.
Chairman, Zoning Board of Adjustment
North Arlington
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Heliplex activists unite
KEARNY - The Coalition Against the Newark Heliplex Community will be hosting their first public meeting on Monday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at the Board of Health Building at 645 Kearny Ave.
This meeting is open to the public. Any potential volunteers interested in getting involved to stop the Newark Heliplex are encouraged to attend and participate.
The agenda will cover planning, petitioning efforts, recapping recent Coalition Activity, and a update on the status of the Heliplex. There will be an open forum.
All residents are welcome. For further information, please contact Steve Ceragno at stopnewarkheliport@hotmail.com.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Equal pay for women
Republican senators voted down the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act this week. See the opinion section of the April 30 edition of The Observer for the current state of equal pay for equivalent work.
Below is the story of the woman who the Act is named after.
Below is the story of the woman who the Act is named after.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Veterans Benefits
BLOOMFIELD – The Bloomfield Public Library on 90 Broad St. will have a free seminar on May 6 at 10:30 a.m. called "The Best Kept Secrets in Long-term Care Benefits."
The event will cover how veterans over 65 years old can get government money to help defray the cost of medical bills. The speaker is Attorney Yale S. Hauptman. Anyone with a loved-one that is a wartime veteran or survivor spouse and is confined to his or her home or a facility by Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, a stroke or any other long-term illness should attend the program.
Call 973-994-2287 for more information. Register early since seating is limited.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Arrests made on Alexander Avenue
Kearny residents Stuart Bradley, top, and John Bradley, bottom.KEARNY - When Kearny Officer Vanessa Sevillano responded to at call to Liquid Cargo on 470 Schuyler Ave. about a possible theft on Tuesday, April 15 at 3:26 p.m., she was informed that Ace Auto Salvage, located at 34 Stover Ave., contacted the Schuyler Avenue business because the tank fittings bought earlier in the day may belong to them.
The two men who brought in the fittings, known to Ace as John and Stuart Bradley, were suspected of allegedly stealing the items from their garage. The pair was seen driving a black Geo Tracker.
The items, valued at over $4,000, were confirmed as being stolen from Ace.
Det. Lt. Greg Reed and Det. Ray Lopez followed up investigation. Both John and Stuart Bradley were positively identified through a photo array.
The detectives, along with the Kearny Vice Unit and directed patrol officers went to the home of suspects, who live at 27 Alexander Ave. in Kearny. A black Geo Tracker was parked on the street near Alexander Avenue. Police officials said there was money allegedly from the sale still inside the vehicle.
The officers approached the home and could see through a partially open door that John Bradley was slouched over with a syringe stuck in his left arm, reports said.
The officers entered the residence and secured the syringe, and John J. Bradley, 38, of 27 Alexander Ave. was arrested and charged with burglary, theft, conspiracy to commit theft, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and the use of a controlled dangerous substance, according to reports. Police said he has at least 44 prior arrests.
Stuart Bradley, 29, also of 27 Alexander Ave. was arrested and charged with burglary, theft, and conspiracy. Police said the younger Bradley has at least 28 prior arrests.
Many residents have called and wondered why anyone with that many priors could still be walking the streets.
See the April 30 issue of The Observer for some answers from law enforcement officials.
Turn Off Your TV Week
As most people know, from Saturday, April 12 to today April 23, is Earth Week.
But there is more than green space that must be preserved - the minds and bodies of our young people.
From Monday, April 21 to Sunday, April 27, Turn Off Your TV Week, sponsored by the Center for Screen Time Awareness, is leading the charge for change.
The campaign is aimed at asking families and children to have quality time with themselves and others. That means getting out into the world and experiencing it, not through an agenda-ridden machine, but through real life interaction.
For those who only see the technical side of life, people from the Center say that you should turn off all screens to get the maximum effect anyway, including video games and computers.
For more information on the topic see the Web site: http://www.tvturnoff.org/. For a radical take on our addiction to the tube, take a gander at http://www.turnoffyourtv.com/.
Yes, computer terminals count in this equation.
So I'm signing off for at least the next two hours.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Mean Green
This will be the 3rd year in a row that regular Joes and Josephines will see their residential utility bills double. The Board of Public Utilities approves the rate hikes so they can they can generate megawatts that fill, not ours, but their pockets.We have the deregulation of the energy sector to thank for that. It was supposed to give residents a choice in utilities suppliers.
BPU says that 13.5 percent of New Jersey power load is supplied by alternative retail suppliers.
PSE&G says they are committed to help achieve the aggressive New Jersey State Energy Master Plan goals to reduce projected energy use a good 20 percent by 2020. They want to meet 20 percent of the state’s electricity needs.
The the megalithic utility company (that's 2 million customers) has committed to provide a cool $105 million toward the financing of solar system installations over the next two years.
The Solar Loan Program will allow solar systems to be installed on customers’ premises “behind the meter” using PSE&G as an essential source of capital.
At this time, though, applications are only being accepted for the Commercial/Industrial Segment, the Municipal/Not-for-Profit Segment and the Multi-Family Segment.
No applications are being accepted for the one-family residential segment. Renters are out of the picture altogether.
By the by, the interest rate on the15-year non-residential loan is 11.11 percent with a surcharge on all of our bills to cover the program's cost - PSE&G wants a 9.75 return on their magnanimous investment.
So that's another reason why utility bills continue to skyrocket.
See the Web site at www.pseg.com/solarloan.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Bank robber on the loose
NORTH ARLINGTON – The manager of Commerce Bank at 454 Ridge Rd. in North Arlington reported via the telephone that his bank was just robbed on April 16 at 12:15 p.m., according to police reports.
A lone black man entered the bank and approached a teller at the counter. The suspect handed the bank teller a manila envelope that had the following written on it “I have a gun, loose bills on top.” The teller proceeded to place an undetermined amount of cash in the envelope and the man fled out of the bank on foot. An extensive search of the area was unable to locate the actor.
No weapon was ever shown or observed by anyone, police said.
The suspect is described as a black man, wearing metal rimmed glasses; 5 foot-3 inches tall; weighing about 170 pounds; between 20 and 25 years of age; medium build, wearing dark jeans; and an over-sized pinkish/plaid shirt and a red Cincinnati Reds baseball cap.
The above photos are of the alleged robber from the Commerce Bank surveillance tapes.
Any one with any information on this person, contact the North Arlington Police Detectives at 201-955-5680.
Taking a stand against homelessness
Philip Mangano, left, Executive Director of the United States InteragencyCouncil on Homelessness, DeGise and Daniel Altilio, President and CPO
of United Way of Hudson County
WASHINGTON – Hudson County Executive Tom DeGise received the 2008 "Home for Every American" County Leadership Award at a Luncheon in Washington, D.C.
United Way partnered with DeGise to assist in developing a comprehensive, 10-year plan to address homelessness in Hudson County.
Tax relief now, not later
On April 15, the day state and federal tax returns were due, New Jersey Assembly Speaker Joe Roberts outlined a plan for property tax relief on income tax returns instead of through rebates later in the year.
Roberts calls mailing the rebate during election season a political gimmick.
Roberts calls mailing the rebate during election season a political gimmick.
– Video courtesy Wally Edge
School Board election results
The following candidates won seats on area school boards:
BELLEVILLE – Bill Freda, Joe Longo
BLOOMFIELD – Rachel Park, Susan Wolf, Tony Petrillo, Joe Lopez
KEARNY – Virginia Santos, David J. Stevenson, Jr., John J. Campbell
LYNDHURST – Tom D'Mascio, Louis Bilis, Stephen Vendola
NORTH ARLINGTON – Anthony Blanco, Karen Palatella
NUTLEY – Vinnie Moscaritola, Walter Sautter, Kenneth Rielly
BELLEVILLE – Bill Freda, Joe Longo
BLOOMFIELD – Rachel Park, Susan Wolf, Tony Petrillo, Joe Lopez
KEARNY – Virginia Santos, David J. Stevenson, Jr., John J. Campbell
LYNDHURST – Tom D'Mascio, Louis Bilis, Stephen Vendola
NORTH ARLINGTON – Anthony Blanco, Karen Palatella
NUTLEY – Vinnie Moscaritola, Walter Sautter, Kenneth Rielly
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Thoughts on Global Warming
The has been a lot of talk about the effects of global warming, if there is global warming and who's going to tell the people warming up or cooling down their cars before work each morning that there may be a problem with the extra exhaust.
Below are a few videos that show radically different points of view on the topic.
We at The Observer like to show both sides of the story as we can, so the reader or viewer can make an informed decision for themselves.
The Great Global Warming Question
The Great Global Warming Swindle
Al Gore before Congress in 2007
Below are a few videos that show radically different points of view on the topic.
We at The Observer like to show both sides of the story as we can, so the reader or viewer can make an informed decision for themselves.
The Great Global Warming Question
The Great Global Warming Swindle
Al Gore before Congress in 2007
School Board Elections
Today, between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. registered voters in Belleville, Bloomfield, Kearny, Lyndhurst, North Arlington and Nutley can go to the polls to cast a ballot for the proposed 2008-2009 school budget. They will also be given the opportunity to select candidates who will represent them on the Board of Education.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Cupo coughs it up
BELLEVILLE - BELLEVILLE - Never underestimate the tenacity of veterans no matter what their age or condition, or the power of the press to secure change - $2100 of change, that is.
DAV Chapter 22 Commander Joe Fornarotto phoned to say that just two days after their front-page story in Wednesday's edition of The Observer they received some money in the mail.
The story featured their plight with Nunzio Cupo, former commander of the Belleville-Nutley organization. Cupo plead guilty last year to stealing at least $160,000 from the new building kitty. As of press time, Cupo not paid the remaining $85,000 owed the brothers and sisters in arms.
Hopefully, the rest of the back-owed money will be sent post-haste and continue on time.
A Kearny reader, who phoned to say she was aghast that Cupo never received any time for his actions, requested the address of New Jersey Superior Court Judge John C. Kennedy and Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Arthur Margeotes in order to give the pair a piece of her mind about the injustice of it all.
Way to go, Joe and the rest of the Mill Street crew!
DAV Chapter 22 Commander Joe Fornarotto phoned to say that just two days after their front-page story in Wednesday's edition of The Observer they received some money in the mail.
The story featured their plight with Nunzio Cupo, former commander of the Belleville-Nutley organization. Cupo plead guilty last year to stealing at least $160,000 from the new building kitty. As of press time, Cupo not paid the remaining $85,000 owed the brothers and sisters in arms.
Hopefully, the rest of the back-owed money will be sent post-haste and continue on time.
A Kearny reader, who phoned to say she was aghast that Cupo never received any time for his actions, requested the address of New Jersey Superior Court Judge John C. Kennedy and Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Arthur Margeotes in order to give the pair a piece of her mind about the injustice of it all.
Way to go, Joe and the rest of the Mill Street crew!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Thirty bewildering bullet holes
KEARNY - The owner of Apex Apparel Services Inc., located at 46 Sellers St. in Kearny, came into work at 7 a.m. on April 3 to find his building had been damaged by bullets.
When Kearny police arrived, the front of the building was found to have over 30 bullet holes in it.
Evidence recovered from the scene is being processed, and there are several video systems that police officials are examining for evidence.
Detectives at Kearny police headquarters on Laurel Avenue are requesting that anyone who heard gun shots or any similar noise between the hours of 8 p.m. on Wednesday April 2 and 7 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, to contact the bureau at 201-998-4632.
Detectives at Kearny police headquarters on Laurel Avenue are requesting that anyone who heard gun shots or any similar noise between the hours of 8 p.m. on Wednesday April 2 and 7 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, to contact the bureau at 201-998-4632.
Gold items favorite for thieves
KEARNY - Residents are advised that due to the high gold prices home burglaries may be on the rise. The following homes were burglarized on Monday, April 7:
- 111 Belgrove Dr. - Apartment 31
- 520 Devon St.
- 511 Kearny - Apartment 13 and 14
Anyone who lives in apartment buildings should be very cautious as to who they buzz into their buildings, police officials said.
If anyone has any information please contact Kearny detectives at 201-998-4632.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Death Penalty and Deterrence
From the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice in Washington, D.C. (By Mike Males, PhD):
Legal executions restarted in earnest in 1984 after state courts and the United States Supreme Court cleared legal obstacles raised by 1970s anti-death penalty rulings. States implemented the death penalty with widely varying intensity.
From 1984 through 2006:
· 13 states (Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia) each conducted one or more executions per year, a total of 942, 90 percent of the executions in the United States.
· 20 states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, Wyoming) conducted a total of 109 executions.
· 17 states (Alaska, District of Colombia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin) had no executions.
Claims have been made, refuted, resurrected, and re-refuted that use of the death penalty deters murder. Complex mathematical analyses of multiple factors contributing to murder rates have reported opposite results, with some concluding a deterrent effect from the death penalty exists, others no deterrent effect, others a violence-promoting effect.
The Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice conducted an analysis of the effect of the 1,051 legal executions on the 446,457 homicides in the 50 states and Washington D.C. during the 1984-2006 period. We found that, clearing away the complexities, the reason for the widely differing findings on the deterrent effect of the death penalty is fairly simple.
Homicide data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (2007), legal execution data and city homicide trends from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (2007), and state population figures from the Bureau of the Census (2007) are used to analyze murder rates in the 13 “big death” states” with 942 executions, the 20 “little death states” with 109 executions, and the 18 “no death” states and DC with no executions.
From 1983-84 to 2005-06, the homicide rate declined by 34 percent in the “big death” states with the most executions, by 24 percent in the “little death” states with few executions, and by 36 percent in the “no death” states with no executions.
Again, the “big death” and the “no death” states show the biggest declines in homicide, while the “little death” state shows the least decline. The major cities in each category show larger declines in the no-death penalty states.
A straightforward “death penalty versus no death penalty” chi-square analysis that pits the no-death states against all of those that conducted executions finds a statistically significant effect that not executing anyone best deters homicide. An “intensity of execution” analysis that pits the big-death states against the little-death and no-death states (on the grounds that rarely applying the death penalty does not permit fair evaluation of its effects) finds that states that conduct lots of executions have fewer homicides, though the result is less significant.
One can conclude, with mathematical assurance, that a state policy of executing lots of people, and a state policy of executing no one, both significantly deter homicide. Although many complications can be added to the analysis, the basic commonality that underlies these contradictory results is simple: the states in the middle, the ones that rarely used the death penalty, had much lower reductions in homicide than both the states that used the death penalty frequently and the states that never used it at all.
This peculiar result suggests the death penalty is irrelevant to homicide. Executions are highly publicized, often over long periods of time as sentences are imposed, appeals argued and decided, dates set, dates postponed, controversies covered, sentences finally carried out. If executions deterred murder, we would expect the states that executed at least some people to show bigger drops in homicide than states that executed no one. Conversely, if executions promoted more homicide (the “state-sanctioned violence” argument), we would expect that states that conducted lots of executions would experience more murders than those that executed very few.
Neither of the expected patterns emerges. In addition, the no-death-penalty states show slightly more favorable results, with bigger declines and murder and more strongly significant results when pitted against the death-penalty states. These results are far from the level of significance necessary to argue that not executing anyone deters murder, but they strongly argue the death penalty and homicide rates are unrelated.
While big-death-penalty states tend to be concentrated in the South, where murder rates are highest, the states’ levels of homicide show no relationship to trends. The three categories of states each contain cities with traditionally high murder rates (Houston, Dallas, Miami, and Atlanta in the big-death states; Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Baltimore in the “little death” states; New York, Detroit, Washington, and Newark in the no-death states), and trends in these cities likewise show no murder deterrent of the death penalty.
As a murder deterrent, the death penalty appears largely irrelevant.
For more information see the Web site, http://www.cjcj.org/.
Legal executions restarted in earnest in 1984 after state courts and the United States Supreme Court cleared legal obstacles raised by 1970s anti-death penalty rulings. States implemented the death penalty with widely varying intensity.
From 1984 through 2006:
· 13 states (Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia) each conducted one or more executions per year, a total of 942, 90 percent of the executions in the United States.
· 20 states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, Wyoming) conducted a total of 109 executions.
· 17 states (Alaska, District of Colombia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin) had no executions.
Claims have been made, refuted, resurrected, and re-refuted that use of the death penalty deters murder. Complex mathematical analyses of multiple factors contributing to murder rates have reported opposite results, with some concluding a deterrent effect from the death penalty exists, others no deterrent effect, others a violence-promoting effect.
The Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice conducted an analysis of the effect of the 1,051 legal executions on the 446,457 homicides in the 50 states and Washington D.C. during the 1984-2006 period. We found that, clearing away the complexities, the reason for the widely differing findings on the deterrent effect of the death penalty is fairly simple.
Homicide data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (2007), legal execution data and city homicide trends from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (2007), and state population figures from the Bureau of the Census (2007) are used to analyze murder rates in the 13 “big death” states” with 942 executions, the 20 “little death states” with 109 executions, and the 18 “no death” states and DC with no executions.
From 1983-84 to 2005-06, the homicide rate declined by 34 percent in the “big death” states with the most executions, by 24 percent in the “little death” states with few executions, and by 36 percent in the “no death” states with no executions.
Again, the “big death” and the “no death” states show the biggest declines in homicide, while the “little death” state shows the least decline. The major cities in each category show larger declines in the no-death penalty states.
A straightforward “death penalty versus no death penalty” chi-square analysis that pits the no-death states against all of those that conducted executions finds a statistically significant effect that not executing anyone best deters homicide. An “intensity of execution” analysis that pits the big-death states against the little-death and no-death states (on the grounds that rarely applying the death penalty does not permit fair evaluation of its effects) finds that states that conduct lots of executions have fewer homicides, though the result is less significant.
One can conclude, with mathematical assurance, that a state policy of executing lots of people, and a state policy of executing no one, both significantly deter homicide. Although many complications can be added to the analysis, the basic commonality that underlies these contradictory results is simple: the states in the middle, the ones that rarely used the death penalty, had much lower reductions in homicide than both the states that used the death penalty frequently and the states that never used it at all.
This peculiar result suggests the death penalty is irrelevant to homicide. Executions are highly publicized, often over long periods of time as sentences are imposed, appeals argued and decided, dates set, dates postponed, controversies covered, sentences finally carried out. If executions deterred murder, we would expect the states that executed at least some people to show bigger drops in homicide than states that executed no one. Conversely, if executions promoted more homicide (the “state-sanctioned violence” argument), we would expect that states that conducted lots of executions would experience more murders than those that executed very few.
Neither of the expected patterns emerges. In addition, the no-death-penalty states show slightly more favorable results, with bigger declines and murder and more strongly significant results when pitted against the death-penalty states. These results are far from the level of significance necessary to argue that not executing anyone deters murder, but they strongly argue the death penalty and homicide rates are unrelated.
While big-death-penalty states tend to be concentrated in the South, where murder rates are highest, the states’ levels of homicide show no relationship to trends. The three categories of states each contain cities with traditionally high murder rates (Houston, Dallas, Miami, and Atlanta in the big-death states; Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Baltimore in the “little death” states; New York, Detroit, Washington, and Newark in the no-death states), and trends in these cities likewise show no murder deterrent of the death penalty.
As a murder deterrent, the death penalty appears largely irrelevant.
For more information see the Web site, http://www.cjcj.org/.
New ATF field office in Newark
NEWARK – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) opened the doors of its new field division on Friday, April 4 — the 25th in the country.
Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) joined with Reps. Steven R. Rothman (D-NJ-09) and Donald M. Payne (D-NJ-10) as well as ATF Acting Director Michael J. Sullivan and U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Christopher J. Christie to open the new field office in Newark. The office will better focus the ATF’s resources in the region to fight against violent crime, prevent terrorism and protect the nation, according to a recent press release.
The Newark ATF division encompasses all of New Jersey and will enhance bureau's ability to combat violent criminal gangs and organizations, share information and intelligence with its law enforcement partners while working through such ATF-led initiatives as the Violent Crime Impact Team.
“ATF’s first priority is safeguarding New Jersey from firearms — and gang-related violence,” ATF Acting Director Sullivan said. “By strategically realigning ATF field offices and working with our law enforcement partners; the U.S. attorney and county prosecutors, legislators, and the community, ATF will better be able to achieve its goals in the region. With New Jersey’s commitment to trace every gun used in the commission of a crime via the New Jersey State Police and ATF, we will make our communities safer.”
The benefits to the region include enhanced working relationships with state and local partners, as well as other federal agencies currently working in the region. Partnerships with regulated industry associations will continue, as there are approximately 300 federal firearms licensees and more than 100 explosives licensees and permittees that fall under the purview of the new field division.
Matthew W. Horace will serve as the special agent in charge of the Newark Field Division. Horace previously served as the acting in the same capacity for the Denver Field Division before coming to Newark. Previous positions include the assistant special agent in charge of the Seattle Field Division and several high-level positions at ATF headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) joined with Reps. Steven R. Rothman (D-NJ-09) and Donald M. Payne (D-NJ-10) as well as ATF Acting Director Michael J. Sullivan and U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Christopher J. Christie to open the new field office in Newark. The office will better focus the ATF’s resources in the region to fight against violent crime, prevent terrorism and protect the nation, according to a recent press release.
The Newark ATF division encompasses all of New Jersey and will enhance bureau's ability to combat violent criminal gangs and organizations, share information and intelligence with its law enforcement partners while working through such ATF-led initiatives as the Violent Crime Impact Team.
“ATF’s first priority is safeguarding New Jersey from firearms — and gang-related violence,” ATF Acting Director Sullivan said. “By strategically realigning ATF field offices and working with our law enforcement partners; the U.S. attorney and county prosecutors, legislators, and the community, ATF will better be able to achieve its goals in the region. With New Jersey’s commitment to trace every gun used in the commission of a crime via the New Jersey State Police and ATF, we will make our communities safer.”
The benefits to the region include enhanced working relationships with state and local partners, as well as other federal agencies currently working in the region. Partnerships with regulated industry associations will continue, as there are approximately 300 federal firearms licensees and more than 100 explosives licensees and permittees that fall under the purview of the new field division.
Matthew W. Horace will serve as the special agent in charge of the Newark Field Division. Horace previously served as the acting in the same capacity for the Denver Field Division before coming to Newark. Previous positions include the assistant special agent in charge of the Seattle Field Division and several high-level positions at ATF headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The Newark management team will be made up of an assistant special agent in charge, a division operations officer, a director of industry operations position and support staff.
The New Jersey Field Division comprises nearly 40 special agents and industry operations investigators. Other resources include certified fire investigators and certified explosives specialists. The arrangement of the field division and satellite offices will allow for staffing growth opportunities within the division as funding is made available.
The new field division consists of existing criminal enforcement offices and an industry operations office in West Paterson, previously assigned to the New York Field Division, and criminal enforcement offices in Camden, Trenton and Atlantic City that have been realigned from the Philadelphia Field Division.
The Newark Field Division is temporarily located at 1 Garret Mountain Plaza, West Paterson, until a permanent space is located in Newark.
Division office personnel can be reached at 973-413-1179.
The New Jersey Field Division comprises nearly 40 special agents and industry operations investigators. Other resources include certified fire investigators and certified explosives specialists. The arrangement of the field division and satellite offices will allow for staffing growth opportunities within the division as funding is made available.
The new field division consists of existing criminal enforcement offices and an industry operations office in West Paterson, previously assigned to the New York Field Division, and criminal enforcement offices in Camden, Trenton and Atlantic City that have been realigned from the Philadelphia Field Division.
The Newark Field Division is temporarily located at 1 Garret Mountain Plaza, West Paterson, until a permanent space is located in Newark.
Division office personnel can be reached at 973-413-1179.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Now about that heliplex
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On April 3, as neglect of airline inspections took center stage at a Congressional hearing, U.S. Sens. Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) say they are adding it to the list of issues the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must resolve before they would consider lifting their holds on the nomination for FAA Administrator. The senators announced in February that they were placing holds on the nomination of FAA Acting Administrator Robert Sturgell to be the permanent Administrator, citing his agency’s lack of action on a number of air safety and efficiency concerns, particularly within the congested New Jersey airspace.
“Major changes are needed at the FAA. The recent safety problems are just the latest evidence that new leadership and strong enforcement of our safety laws are needed to make air travel safe for passengers,” Lautenberg said. “The problem is that the Bush Administration’s FAA has too often chosen airlines over passengers and the public, whether it’s failing to inspect their planes, allowing them to over-schedule flights or redesigning the flight patterns over New Jersey. As the FAA’s second-in-command, Sturgell helped create many of these poor policies and he must be held accountable.”
Menendez added, “The Federal Aviation Administration has lost focus of its mission. It needs a serious reminder that it exists to the keep to flying public safe, not to get cozy with the airlines. The list of major concerns that this out-of-touch agency must address just keeps on growing. The common thread though all of these problems is a lack of leadership at the agency. I will make sure that Mr. Sturgell’s nomination does not see the light of day until this list of issues is addressed.”
Thursday's hearing in the House Transportation Committee included whistleblowers testifying that Southwest Airlines was permitted to skip inspections of aircraft because of a close relationship with certain FAA officials.
Among the issues that the New Jersey senators raised when the hold was first placed on Sturgell were:
* Airspace redesign – without listening to public feedback, the FAA rushed into a plan for new flight paths into and out of Newark Liberty International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport that promises to increase the noise level for thousands of New Jersey residents without substantially reducing flight delays.
* Air traffic controllers – there is serious concern that the not enough air traffic controllers with the experience necessary to manage the nation’s busiest airspace are on staff in the region, but the FAA has only attempted to justify the staffing levels rather than remedying them.
* Near misses – reports of near misses on the runway at Newark and in the air are increasing, which was underscored by a Government Accountability Office report Senator Lautenberg requested that showed that Newark has among the most runway incursions in the nation.
* Minimum fuel landings – both Senators wrote the FAA last year about reports of a dramatic increase in flights coming in to Newark with only a minimum amount of fuel left in the tank, but the FAA still has not been able to produce statistics or an adequate answer.
If the senators have this much stroke stopping the FAA, perhaps everyone against the proposed heliplex in Newark should give their office a call about area grievances with additional air traffic problems that the heliport is bound to create for residents.
Beware the croaker
LYNDHURST - Grand Supercenter, Inc. of Lyndhurst, recalled 576 cases of HC Fresh frozen croaker on April 1 because the fish may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a botulism-causing bacteria. Botulism can cause life-threatening illness or death, according tto the Food and Drug Administration in Rockville, Maryland.
HC Fresh Frozen Salted Croaker was distributed through H Mart stores including H Mart and Super H Mart in New Jersey and New York, besides Pennsylvania, Illinois and Texas.
The recall is for HC Fresh, Frozen Salted Croaker, Net. Wt.: 16.9 oz (480 gram),Item # HC 0500402, Expiration Date: Aug 02. 2009, according to the FDA.
The FDA is warning consumers not to use these products even if they do not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism symptoms may include general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing, difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation. Anyone experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
HC Fresh Frozen Salted Croaker was distributed through H Mart stores including H Mart and Super H Mart in New Jersey and New York, besides Pennsylvania, Illinois and Texas.
The recall is for HC Fresh, Frozen Salted Croaker, Net. Wt.: 16.9 oz (480 gram),Item # HC 0500402, Expiration Date: Aug 02. 2009, according to the FDA.
The FDA is warning consumers not to use these products even if they do not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism symptoms may include general weakness, dizziness, double-vision, and trouble with speaking or swallowing, difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation. Anyone experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
The potential for contamination was noted after routine inspection. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers who have purchased these HC Fresh Frozen Salted Croaker products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Grand Supercenter, Inc. at 201-507-9900.
Consumers who have purchased these HC Fresh Frozen Salted Croaker products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Grand Supercenter, Inc. at 201-507-9900.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Harrison Commons is rolling again
HARRSION - Appellate Division Superior Court Judge Jack Sabatino, who issued the 88-page opinion on due process in the approved for publication on the Harrison Redevelopment Agency v. Anthony J. DeRose v. Town of Harrison and Planning Board et. al., ruled in favor of the redevelopments agency's emergency request to stop the stop-order today.
The parking garage and Harrison Commons site remediation can continue as planned.
The parking garage and Harrison Commons site remediation can continue as planned.
Friday's stop-order was issued by Assignment Judge Maurice Gallipoli for the three Harrison property owner holdouts; Steve Adler, Manny Amaral and Anthony DeRose. With the new ruling it was their right to so.
See the April 9 Observer for what comes next.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sad update on Pike fire
KEARNY – Ann Lewis who lived 238 Belleville Pike in Kearny died last night at approximately 5 p.m. in the Burn Unit at St. Barnabas Heath Care Center in Livingston. Her injuries were sustained during a fire at her home. Despite valiant attempts to save her life, the severity of her condition finally took its toll.
Manuel Delgado, who lives at 268 Belleville Turnpike and knows the family, was leaving his home and saw the smoke coming from the Lewis house. He ran over to the building and started calling for Bruce, Ann Lewis’ 60-year-old son, according to Kearny Fire Inspector Chuck Kerr. Delgado did not receive any answer. Bruce Lewis was not home at the time.
An unidentified Hispanic man also came over to help.
Then, Aloysius Tawlowicz, whose father owns Pizzaland located at 260 Belleville Turnpike on the North Arlington side, was making a delivery when he saw smoke coming from the building where Lewis lived.
The three men rushed into the burning building. There was an intense amount of fire and heat on the first floor and then Delgado later told Kerr he “heard a weird noise.”
Using his cell phone light to make his way up the stairs, he found Ann Lewis gasping for air on the second floor landing.
The three men retrieved Lewis from the landing and put her outside on the ground. Since the house was now burning out of control, the men decided not to go back in.
At some point, the unidentified man left the scene.
“Delgado knew she wasn’t very mobile,” Fire Inspector Chuck Kerr said. “They did a great job getting her out of there.”
Delgado, the unidentified man, and Talowicz pulled Lewis from the burning building, prior to the arrival of the Kearny fire department.
Deputy Chief Anthony Calabrese was first on the scene.
The two-alarm fire was on Tuesday March 25 at 5:37 p.m. All Kearny uptown fire companies: Engine 3, Engine 1 and Engine 2 along with Ladder 2, arrived at the scene. Deputy Chief
The 88-year-old woman was flown to the Burn Unit at St. Barnabas Heath Care Center in Livingston immediately from Gunnel Oval by a New Jersey State Police operated NorthSTAR medevac helicopter, who were requested to do so by Kearny EMS Chief Harry McNeil.
Lewis was in critical condition with third-degree burns to 15 to 20 percent of her body at that time of the fire.
“The department sends their condolences to the Lewis family during this difficult time,” Acting Chief Steven Dyl said. “I also want to commend the two men for quick and selfless action.”
Dyl said the fire was under control in 20 minutes with assistance from Harrison and North Arlington fire departments on board for mutual aid. Jersey City and East Newark fire departments covered Kearny stations during the incident.
The cause is determined as accidental, possibly due to careless smoking, by Kearny Fire Inspector Officials.
Harrison redevelopment on halt
HARRISON - After a ruling in Jersey City by Assignment Judge Maurice Gallipoli for a stop-work order this Friday, March 28, on the continuing redevelopment efforts on Harrison Commons, remediation on the troubled project has ground to a halt as of yesterday. That means the parking garage development is in jeopardy for the time being.
Property owner Steve Adler, who has had a number of lawsuits against the project, the most recent and successful one coming down on the Anthony DeRose case (another Harrison property owner fighting eminent domain) that ruled in the text book case, "trial judges must retain the residual power to extend the time for a property owner to assert all claims of invalidity of a redevelopment designation, whether general or property-specific, where the interests of justice so require."
Property owner Steve Adler, who has had a number of lawsuits against the project, the most recent and successful one coming down on the Anthony DeRose case (another Harrison property owner fighting eminent domain) that ruled in the text book case, "trial judges must retain the residual power to extend the time for a property owner to assert all claims of invalidity of a redevelopment designation, whether general or property-specific, where the interests of justice so require."
The document further stated that "The trial judge also did not take into account the jurisdictional breadth of the Eminent Domain Act."
That trial judge was Gallipoli.
Since the ruling allows Gallipoli to oversee another round of discovery and for both sides to present their cases once more with new or supplemental expert reports in order to ascertain and address the "pertinent blight factors," it appears that Adler, who has been contesting the same objections since the condemnation began, may make some headway with his claims.
The Harrison Redevelopment Agency, on the other hand, has filed an emergency request on the same day to stop the stop-order.
Stay tuned for the ever-continuing saga of the 275-acre Harrison Waterfront Redevelopment project. See the April 9 Observer for a full report.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
