Councilwoman Zusy responds to the Ridgewood News Article about the Nov. 4 Village Council meeting

To the editor:

I’m as interested as anyone at working with members of the business community to see what can be done in this awful economic climate. Yet as a journalist for years editing for The New York Times, reporting for The Associated Press and working for other media outlets, and as someone who was singled out in the reportage, I must state for the record that The Ridgewood News's coverage of the Nov. 4 Village Council meeting was an inaccurate portrayal of what took place.

To suggest that my response was on par with the screed delivered before the council is insulting and offensive. The article — and headline — inaccurately portrayed what in fact occurred and its omissions included the lack of reporting on the statements at the end of the council meeting from two members of the chamber of commerce who stood at the same podium and expressed embarrassment and apologies for what had come before.

Luckily the whole thing is on tape, and anyone interested in seeing how the council meeting really played out can borrow a copy from the Ridgewood Library.

Doctor Proposes Socialism for Lawyers

By RICHARD B. RAFAL

Since we are moving toward socialism with ObamaCare, the time has come to do the same with other professions—especially lawyers. Physician committees can decide whether lawyers are necessary in any given situation.

At a town-hall meeting in Portsmouth, N.H., last month, our uninformed lawyer in chief suggested that we physicians would rather chop off a foot than manage diabetes since we would make more money doing surgery. Then President Obama compounded his attack by claiming a doctor's reimbursement is between "$30,000" and "$50,000" for such amputations! (Actually, such surgery costs only about $1,500.)

Physicians have never been so insulted. Because of these affronts, I will gladly volunteer for the important duty of controlling and regulating lawyers. Since most of what lawyers do is repetitive boilerplate or pushing paper, physicians would have no problem dictating what is appropriate for attorneys. We physicians know much more about legal practice than lawyers do about medicine.

Following are highlights of a proposed bill authorizing the dismantling of the current framework of law practice and instituting socialized legal care:

• Contingency fees will be discouraged, and eventually outlawed, over a five-year period. This will put legal rewards back into the pockets of the deserving—the public and the aggrieved parties. Slick lawyers taking their "cut" smacks of a bookie operation. Attorneys will be permitted to keep up to 3% in contingency cases, the remainder going into a pool for poor people.

• Legal "DRGs." Each potential legal situation will be assigned a relative value, and charges limited to this amount. Program participation and acceptance of this amount is mandatory, regardless of the number of hours spent on the matter. Government schedules of flat fees for each service, analogous to medicine's Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs), will be issued. For example, any divorce will have a set fee of, say, $1,000, regardless of its simplicity or complexity. This will eliminate shady hourly billing. Niggling fees such as $2 per page photocopied or faxed would disappear. Who else nickels-and-dimes you while at the same time charging hundreds of dollars per hour? I'm surprised lawyers don't tack shipping and handling onto their bills.

• Legal "death panels." Over 75? You will not be entitled to legal care for any matter. Why waste money on those who are only going to die soon? We can decrease utilization, save money and unclog the courts simultaneously. Grandma, you're on your own.

• Ration legal care. One may need to wait months to consult an attorney. Despite a perceived legal need, physician review panels or government bureaucrats may deem advice unnecessary. Possibly one may not get representation before court dates or deadlines. But that' s tough: What do you want for "free"?

• Physician controlled legal review. This is potentially the most exciting reform, with doctors leading committees for determining the necessity of all legal procedures and the fairness of attorney fees. What a wonderful way for doctors to get even with the sharks attempting to eviscerate the practice of medicine.

• Discourage/eliminate specialization. Legal specialists with extra training and experience charge more money, contributing to increased costs of legal care, making it unaffordable for many. This reform will guarantee a selection of mediocre, unmotivated attorneys but should help slow rising legal costs. Big shot under indictment? Classified National Archives documents down your pants? Sitting president defending against impeachment? Have FBI agents found $90,000 in your freezer? Too bad. Under reform you too may have to go to the government legal shop for advice.

• Electronic legal records. We should enter the digital age and computerize and centralize legal records nationwide. All files must be in a standard, preferably inconvenient, format and must be available to government agencies. A single database of judgments, court records, client files, etc. will decrease legal expenses. Anyone with Internet access will be able to search the database, eliminating unjustifiable fees charged by law firms for supposedly proprietary information, while fostering transparency. It will enable consumers to dump their clunker attorneys and transfer records easily.

• Ban legal advertisements. Catchy phone numbers such as 1-800-LAWYERS would be seized by the government and repurposed for reporting unscrupulous attorneys.

• New government oversight. Government overhead to manage the legal system will include a cabinet secretary, commissioners, ombudsmen, auditors, assistants, czars and departments.

• Collect data about the supply of and demand for attorneys. Create a commission to study the diversity and geographic distribution of attorneys, with power to stipulate and enforce corrective actions to right imbalances. The more bureaucracy the better. One can never have too many eyes watching these sleazy sneaks.

• Lawyer Reduction Act (H.R. -3200). A self-explanatory bill that not only decreases the number of law students, but also arbitrarily removes 3,200 attorneys from practice each year. Textbook addition by subtraction.

Enthusiastically embracing the above legal changes can serve as a "teachable moment" and will go a long way toward giving the lawyers who run Congress a taste of their own medicine.

—Dr. Rafal is a radiologist in New York City. This was printed in The Wall Street Journal, page A17 on 9/4/2009.

BERGEN COUNTY H1N1 INFLUENZA VACCINATION CLINIC

WHEN:	Tuesday, November 24, 2009
	4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
WHERE:	Bergen County Technical School
	275/285 Pascack Road
	Paramus, NJ 07652

1,500 doses of the H1N1 intranasal vaccine will be given to those who have pre-registered at http://www.bergenhealth.org/. Registration for this clinic is now open and will close once all doses have been accounted for.

This clinic is only for the CDC Priority Group listed below:

• Healthy children/young adults ages 2-24

For more information, including other H1N1 clinics planned by the Bergen County Department of Health Services, please visit http://www.bergenhealth.org/. Members of the media, who wish to attend any H1N1 clinic, please contact Sheri Hensley at 201-336-7349.

The 2nd Annual "A Village Christmas: limited edition ornament is in!

At $12 each, it makes a great teacher's or hostess gift, or a fabulous addition to your collection!

Sold exclusively at Bookends!

The 1st annual "Christmas in Ridgewood" is also available while supplies last!

Come see us in front of Hillman Lighting on Dec 4th!

Ridgewood Police Press Release 11/17/09

On November 16, 2009 Detective Douglas Henky mad an arrest in a January 2009 case. The victim reported returning from vacation and their 2003 Ford Mustang missing from the garage. The vehicle was later found to have been involved in a motor vehicle crash in Paterson and abandoned. The victim’s 2006 Jaguar had also been driven and returned to the garage. The Jaguar was processed by the Bergen County Sheriffs Department BCI. A DNA sample was taken from the vehicle and later matched to James F. Mayo 25 of Paterson NJ. The accused was charged with Burglary, Receiving Stolen Property, and Joyriding. The accused was detained in the Passaic County Jail on $75000.00 Bail. The investigation is ongoing for an accomplice in the crime.

On November 11, 2009 a Hampton NY resident reported that during a stay at Valley Hospital an unknown person entered her room and stole a diamond engagement ring valued at $4000.00. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 11, 2009 the owner of the Wilsey Mart at 28 Wilsey Square reported that he observed a juvenile place items in his back pack and attempt to leave the store. The juvenile was taken into custody and released to the custody of his parents.

On November 12, 2009 an Ethelbert Place resident reported that she found jewelry missing on November 6, 2009. The victim reported that she had a company working in her home on November 5^th and 6^th and found the items missing after they left. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 13, 2009 Town and Country Apothecary reported that they had observed an adult female place three items in her purse totaling $175.00. The actor quickly exited the store and was last seen on Prospect Street. The store was able to capture the actor on video. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 14, 2009 Rite Aid Pharmacy reported a tall black male had entered the store and was observed placing several items in a bag and exited the store and left the area in an older blue pick up truck with wood grain siding. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

Local N.J. officials at annual conference focus on spending, not saving, taxpayer money

By John Reitmeyer/Statehouse Bureau - NJ.com

Much of the focus for New Jersey’s local government leaders at their annual conference in Atlantic City this week is on spending money — despite property tax bills that are at an all-time high.

Attendees are greeted inside the convention center by a sea of booths advertising products and services that are being offered by vendors who feed off taxpayer-funded contracts.

And the agenda for the convention, organized every year by the New Jersey League of Municipalities, is filled with workshops that teach local officials different ways to use their budgets for everything from crime prevention and green energy to transportation infrastructure and "emerging video technologies."

"You see a lot of ways to spend money," Senate Majority Leader Steve Sweeney (D-Gloucester) said. "What you don’t see is how to regionalize and save money."

About 20,000 people are expected to attend this year’s event, which runs through Friday. Many are billing their communities for meals and lodging, and most are in a public pension system that is teetering toward collapse, one that was the subject of a conference session held on Tuesday.

Other seminars are geared toward better collecting tax money. One is scheduled for Thursday afternoon that will offer ways local officials can fight their residents’ property tax assessment appeals in an effort to maintain their current budgets

Click here to read the entire story

Village Changes Battery Recycling Policy

Attention Ridgewood Residents - Battery Recycling Has Changed - IMPORTANT: Please read

The Ridgewood Recycling Center now accepts ONLY rechargeable batteries and button cell batteries. Each individual battery must be packaged in an individual baggie, or the terminal ends must be taped securely with non-conductive adhesive tape. Packaging guidelines are required by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Alkaline batteries are manufactured with no added mercury and can be disposed of in the regular trash.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Johanna Luttrell, CRP
Recycling Program Aide
Village of Ridgewood
131 North Maple Avenue
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Direct: 201.670.5500 x266
Fax: 201.652.3692

Reader States Their View Of The Halloween Booze Party

First of all, the minors were not arrested, but released to their parents. I commend the Ridgewood Police Department for not making arrests (which according to the law, THEY HAD EVERY RIGHT TO DO). High Schools students with police records, even for town ordinance violations risk huge impacts to their future because colleges can rescind acceptances, and/or any financial scholarship awards.

To the 5:40 poster, I don’t think there is a specific number or percentage that determines guilt. Rather it is the environment which these actions are taking place that contribute to the “guilty factor”. Obviously if several minors attend a school sponsored dance (that is not supplying alcohol), it is those drinking minors that are guilty. When the occurrence is in a private home, where alcohol is readily available to and being consumed by many, it is the responsibility of the individual (drinking or not) to understand they should not be there. While I commend the designated drivers that were in attendance but not drinking, they should understand that they were supporting underage drinking and can be considered guilty as well (though I would not put them in the same boat as the drinkers).

To the original poster, are you really trying to pull to wool over our eyes? Are you really going to tell us that no minors were drinking at the party when there was such a large presence of alcohol at the house? What are the factors that led to one minor being rushed to Valley Hospital? Why would many minors be fleeing the house when the police arrived, if they were doing nothing wrong? Do we live in a police state that we need to be scared of law enforcement? Doubtful.

Are you the mother of the lone adult arrested at the scene and owner of the property in question (subsequently facing numerous charges by the Ridgewood municipal court that can lead to hefty fines and even jail time)? If so, what in the world were the motives of the adult in question partying with 35 minors? That in itself is quite suspect.

For you to have the nerve to question the editorial content reported on this site is ludicrous, as the details of the party were released by the Ridgewood Police Department.

Posted by Anonymous at 11:30 AM

Local Residents Speakout On 9/11 trial

The reaction from families who lost loved ones in the attacks eight years ago varied. Some believe Mohammed doesn't have the right to a trial and would rather see him rot in a cell at Guantanamo Bay — or worse. Others felt a trial in civilian court could show the very best of America.

"I don't think they deserve our constitutional rights," said Kathy Simmons of Ridgewood, whose husband, Bruce, 41, was on the 104th floor of the south tower eight years ago. He did not leave the building after the plane hit, staying an extra five minutes waiting for an official evacuation order.

Alice Caton of Glen Rock, whose 34-year-old son Sean died in the attacks, said it doesn't matter where Mohammed is tried "as long as they execute him."

"I'm not a person that says throw all your credibility out because of anger," said Ouida, of River Edge, whose son Todd was a 25-year-old trader at Cantor Fitzgerald when he was killed in the trade center attacks. "This is the United States. We have sacred values that we don't compromise."

Rose Phalon, whose brother Frank Deming of Franklin Lakes was killed in the attacks, said Holder's decision was the "right move." "I hope the outcome is that [Mohammed] goes to jail for the rest of his life," she said.

Click here to read the entire story.

Ridgewood Attorney Pleads Guilty to Account Thefts

Steven T. Rondos and his law firm, Raia & Rondos, were indicted in January on money laundering and grand larceny charges for stealing more than $4 million. On Wednesday, Rondos pleaded guilty to all 19 counts of the indictment, said his lawyer, Franklin A. Rothman.

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Rondos has pleaded guilty to fleecing millions of dollars from guardianship accounts he oversaw for incapacitated seniors and children.

He has "acknowledged fully that he committed some wrongful takings," Rothman said, but added that the amount taken was "very much in dispute." He said Rondos had paid back around $1 million before any probes had begun. It was later discovered that at least 16 court examiners who oversaw Rondos had signed off on his reports without detecting any red flags. Five examiners resigned in the wake of the investigation and one was suspended.

Rondos, who has since been disbarred, faces six to 18 years in prison when sentenced on Jan. 22.

The law firm has pleaded not guilty; its case is on the calendar for Dec. 3.

Ridgewood Police Press Release For 11/10/09

`On November 1, 2009 Patrol responded to a John Street residence on an unconscious juvenile. While at the scene Ptl Patrick Elwood discovered that the juvenile was in possession of a white powder substance believed to be heroin and a hypodermic needle. The juvenile was charged with possession of heroin and paraphernalia and hearing in family court in Hackensack is pending.

On November 2, 2009 Patrol responded to the Henrietta Ct area to assist Washington Township Police on a Burglary. Lt. David McDermott found evidence that a vehicle at 15 Henrietta Ct had been entered. Washington Township had requested a Bergen County K-9 unit to assist in the search for the actors. Paramus Police found a male later identified as Alberto Rivera 55 of Brooklyn NY on Route 17 near the Exxon Station. The accused was taken into custody by Washington Township Police and later charged by Detective Christopher McDowell with Burglary and Theft for the incident in Ridgewood and Burglary and Theft in Washington Township. The accused was remanded to the Bergen County Jail.

On November 3, 2009 a Village landscape company reported that his trailer that was parked behind a Broad St business was entered and landscape equipment was taken. A second Burglary was reported at the same location to another company’s trailer with nothing taken. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 3, 2009 two vehicles parked at the Red Cross building on Godwin Avenue were reported to have been burglarized. An IPOD is the only item reported taken. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 4, 2009 patrol responded to a report of a shoplifter at Rite Aid Pharmacy on East Ridgewood Avenue. The juvenile had been observed putting a can of Monster Energy Drink in his back pack and attempt to leave the store. A complaint was signed and the juvenile was released pending a future appearance in Family Court in Hackensack.

On November 5, 2009 a West End Resident reported that someone had entered their vehicle that was parked at their home. The victim found that a laptop and briefcase were missing. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 6, 2009 a Midland Park resident reported that her vehicle was parked on Franklin Avenue and someone had spray painted the side of the vehicle. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On November 11, 2009 patrol responded to a Hillcrest Road residence on a report of a suspicious person wearing a black hood on the property. Officers found two adult males, who were visible, intoxicated wearing hooded sweatshirts sitting on the curb. The accused were also in possession of alcohol and were arrested. The accused Jon P King 19 of Kenilworth Rd Ridgewood and Edgar Aguado 18 of Southern Parkway Ridgewood were charged with under age possession of alcohol and released pending an appearance in Ridgewood Municipal Court.

Views Reader Comments on Halloween Booze Party

At 9:30 p.m. when the cops found whatever reasonable cause they needed to enter this party, NOT A SINGLE MINOR WAS INTOXICATED. So, what were you thinking when you called this a "wild booze party"?

I am by no means an advocate for underage partying or drinking, but I am an advocate for HONEST and FACTUAL journalism. Check your writing next time. Interesting how you move on to report, "It is not known whether she was present during the party." They absolutely were not.

One must assume you were aware of this considering you carefully report other instances from the evening in full detail: "35 minors", "one minor transported to The Valley Hospital by ambulance", "...other minors were released to their respective parents at the scene". It is mind boggling, Ridgewood, how you have chosen to exploit these minors and punish them without proper cause. No breathalyzer tests were given, innocent children were embarrassed--even screamed at by your police--and you have the audacity to proudly run this article?

Oh, and I won't be surprised if my comment isn't "published", but know where you stand in future reporting. Posted at 8:31 PM on 11/11/2009

Your purchase makes a difference in Ridgewood!!!

The Village Council and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce ask you to support the 350 project

When you shop locally…
· You say yes to a strong, thriving village.

· You support businesses that are vital to the diverse character of our community.

• You enable us to hire local people to provide better service; giving special attention to each customer.

We are invested in the future of our village. Like you, we pay city & county taxes that provide better services for our community. We donate to local causes so you know that every purchase you make has community value.

We need you to be here this holiday season so that we can be here for you in the future. Thank you!

The 3/50 Project

Saving the brick and mortars our nation is built on

3 Think about which three independently owned businesses you’d miss most if they were gone. Stop in and say hello. Pick up a little something that will make someone smile. Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.

50 If just half the employed U.S. population spent $50 each month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.* Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed population did that.

68 For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.

1 The number of people it takes to start the trend...you.

Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy.

Visit the350project.net

Should Valley Hospital Be Forced To Reduce Its Number Of Beds?

A study commission appointed by Governor Corzine reported last year that New Jersey had more hospital beds than it needed, especially in Bergen and Passaic counties. Legislation was passed, without a dissenting vote, to deal with the surplus and its impact on hospital finances.

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Hackensack University Medical Center planned on reopening the closed Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood as a for-profit 128-bed community hospital, half its former size. Hackensack is already operating an emergency center there. Voters in 13 towns in northeastern Bergen County approved the campaign by Hackensack University Medical Center to reopen the Hospital.

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To open the Hospital they need state approval. Their application is opposed by Englewood Hospital and Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, which contend that reopening Pascack Valley would hurt them financially.

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In Valley Hospitals own KEEP OUR HOSPITALS HEALTHY Campaign they state "In on any given day Bergen County Hospitals have more than 300 hospital beds that go unused." If that is true then the Ridgewood Planning Board may have justification to reduce the number of beds permitted in the H zone as they consider Valley Hospitals Renewal Plan. Valley Hospital has over 440 beds currently, should the Planning Board reduce the number of approved beds in the H Zone, what do you think?

Veterans Day Program

The holiday, originally called Armistice Day, was created to honor veterans of World War I. The armistice effectively ending the war was signed on Nov. 11, 1918. In 1954, Congress passed legislation setting Nov. 11 as a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

Ridgewood's Veterans day Program is sponsored by American Legion Post No. 53; bring chairs, 11 a.m. Wednesday, Veterans Park, North Maple Avenue. (201) 670-5500.

Applebee's Thanks Veterans and Active Duty Military

THANK YOU!

VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY EAT FREE

VETERANS DAY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH

* SIMPLY SHOW PROOF OF MILITARY SERVICE

Valid Veteran and Active Duty Identification to Obtain Free Entree:

• U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card


• U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card


• Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)


• Veterans Organization Card (i.e., American Legion and VFW)


• Photograph in uniform


• Wearing uniform

Available during business hours on November 11, 2009 at participating Applebee’s only. Dine-in from limited menu only. Beverages and gratuity not included. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service.

Click here to see Applebees Website Ad

N.J. Gov.-elect Chris Christie considers declaring financial state of emergency

As he seeks concessions from state workers to balance his first budget, Gov.-elect Chris Christie is examining the possibility of declaring a financial emergency in the state, according to an official familiar with his plans.

Such a declaration — invoking the same law as if New Jersey were hit by a natural disaster — could give Christie broad powers, such as suspending rules governing state worker layoffs. With many state workers due to receive two raises in the next fiscal year and a no-layoff pledge in place through December 2010, Christie’s transition team expects to tackle the issue before he takes office Jan. 19, two of his advisers said today

The advisers, who requested anonymity because the discussions are preliminary, said it is too early to determine whether a state of emergency would be an attractive proposition or a last resort in the face of a continuing recession.

Christie, a Republican who defeated Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine last week, will face an estimated $8 billion shortfall for the budget he must present by March.

His budget balancing options are limited because he has ruled out raising taxes or cutting state aid to K-12 education.

Corzine invoked the state of emergency provisions of New Jersey law in July 2006 in ordering the shutdown of state government after the unprecedented breakdown of budget talks between himself and the Legislature. New Jersey’s Constitution mandates a balanced state budget, so if a budget is not in place or if the spending plan is out of balance, government lawyers believe that is a legal "emergency."

Click here to read the entire story

Taking Our Country Back One Incumbent at a Time

BlowOutCongress.com was created by nationally recognized radio talk show host and personality, Jeff Bolton. In acknowledging that virtually all of the problems America faces today are traceable directly to an ineffective sometimes corrupt congress, Bolton created BlowOutCongress.com to take back our country one incumbent at a time.

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Our founding fathers never intended congress to become a campground or a ruling elite. Rather congress was designed to have a constant ever changing supply of fresh American DNA and ideas. BlowOutCongress.com advocates the complete replacement of all 535 members of congress in the next election cycles. This effort is not associated with or affiliated with any political party.

New Jersey Representatives

1 Rob Andrews Age 52 Democratic Assumed Office 1990 Yrs In Office 19
2 Frank LoBiondo Age 63 Republican Assumed Office 2003 Yrs In Office 6
3 John Adler Age 50 Democratic Assumed Office 2009 Yrs In Office 0
4 Chris Smith Age 56 Republican Assumed Office 1980 Yrs In Office 29
5 Scott Garrett Age 50 Republican Assumed Office 2003 Yrs In Office 6
6 Frank Pallone Age 58 Democratic Assumed Office 1989 Yrs In Office 20
7 Mike Ferguson Age39 Republican Assumed Office 2001 Yrs In Office 8
8 Bill Pascrell Age 72 Democratic Assumed Office 1989 Yrs In Office 20
9 Steve Rothman Age 57 Democratic Assumed Office 1997 Yrs In Office 12
10 Donald Payne Age 75 Democratic Assumed Office 1989 Yrs In Office 20
11 Rodney Frelinghuysen Age 63 Republican Assumed Office 1995 Yrs In Office 14
12 Rush Holt Jr. Age 61 Democratic Assumed Office 1999 Yrs In Office 10
13 Albio Sires Age 58 Democratic Assumed Office 2006 Yrs In Office 3

New Jersey Senators

Frank Lautenberg Age 85 Democratic Assumed Office 2003 Yrs In Office 6
Bob Menendez Age 55 Democratic Assumed Office 2006 Yrs In Office 3

Open Letter to The Village Council

I have been involved over the last month in collecting signatures for a Petition to rescind the parking meter increase and provide more commuter parking. This Wednesday I participated in a presentation before the Council. As those who were there, and as been reported in today’s RIDGEWOOD NEWS, the presentation became highly confrontational. Later in the meeting, after most of the audience had left, I was allowed to again address the Council. The following is in essence what I said:

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The part of the presentation that went before did not reflect what was my intent. There was obviously a misunderstanding between myself and the Chamber of Commerce, since my intent was for the entire presentation to solely relate to the parking issue. My goal was to present to the Council what we considered to be a problem and what we considered to be its solution. I had intended for the individual business owners to come up before the Council and state that they were supportive of the suggested change.

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Instead, what occurred after my presentation, certainly did not reflect my intent or the tone that I wanted. I feel personally embarrassed by what happened and want you, the members of the Council, to know it. I have known each of you personally and have the highest regard for you. Certainly in this forum things should never get personal. Unfortunately they did. For that I want to apologize.

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These are our elected officials, who put in countless hours for very little money. Whether we personally like them or not, whether we agree with them or not, they are entitled to our respect. What happened at the Council meeting was inexcusable and as I said to them at the meeting, I am personally embarrassed and want to apologize again.

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Eugene Rose

Next GOP target: McNerney

By Matt Friedman, PolitickerNJ.com Reporter

It was literally minutes after Bergen County Republicans won two freeholder seats that they started eyeing another prize.

"Now for the big one: county executive," said one Republican operative who often works in Bergen County from the Chris Christie Election Night victory party in Parsippany.

Two days after winning two freeholder seats in Bergen County - a prayed for shot in the arm for a county party that has spent the last several years on the brink of irrelevance- the talk in Bergen County Republican circles is who the party will run for the top office in 2010.

"A number of people have expressed interest. I'm hearing a lot of it informally. No one has officially come to me," said Bergen County Republican Chairman Bob Yudin, whose party could stand to receive a cash infusion now that donors see that they can win elections.

So far, three names pop up: County Clerk Kathleen Donovan, who ran in the 2006 Republican primary for the office but was defeated on the right by Todd Caliguire, who went on to lose the general election; Fair Lawn Councilman Edward Trawinski, who yesterday just won a second consecutive (and third overall) term in that heavily Democratic town; and former Hackensack Mayor Jack Zisa.

Since the Republicans appear to have some momentum, other potential candidates are expected to come forward. And with a GOP governor, Bergen Republicans will have an easier time raising money.

"It's a different ball game now that we've demonstrated we can win a couple county seats," said state Sen. Gerald Cardinale (R-Demarest), who has taken an active role in behind-the-scenes party politics.

Assemblyman David Russo (R-Ridgewood), long rumored to be interested in the post, told PolitickerNJ.com that he will not run.

Click here to read the entire story

Views Reader Comments on Democrat Health Proposal

Wow, those sections sound pretty bad. I read parts of the bill and would like to provide my understanding of it as someone who works in public health. (Maybe I am misinterpreting the semantics in the reading guide, but I find some discrepancies.)

1) Re: section 202(c) No one is forced to purchase coverage through the government. The "Health Insurance Exchange" that is being mistaken as the "federal government" here is actually like a set of regulations that will set a minimum standard for insurance policies, so that people have meaningful and useful coverage (i.e. essentials won't get denied). The federal government's public health care option is just ONE of the providers that will be an option in this Exchange. It won't be required and actually, lots of us won't ever be eligible to use the public option if we wanted to.

2) Re: section 222(e), as far as I can see, the bill states throughout that it does not override any state laws regarding abortion, and specifically states that abortion coverage is not required as part of the minimum benefits in the Health Insurance Exchange. It also states that the bill does not have any jurisdiction on any federal laws regarding abortion (i.e. conscience protection, refusal, etc).

I didn't get any further, but I advise everyone to read posts and comments on health care with a critical eye, and if something sounds scary or extreme, go to the source and look at the bill itself.

10:42 AM

Ridgewood BOE to hold meeting on Bond Referendum.

The Ridgewood Board of Education will present information to the public on the upcoming Ridgewood Public Schools bond referendum. The presentation will take place at George Washington Middle School on Monday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Ridgewood residents are invited to learn about the proposed projects for the entire district, view the plans, and ask questions.

On Tuesday, Dec. 8, residents will be asked to vote on a proposed bond of $38,420,602. Project costs total $48,265,314. Of that amount, nearly $10 million in state grants has been awarded. If approved, the tax impact on the average Ridgewood home would be $300.55, based on the formula of $37.47 per $100,000 assessed value.

Parking is available at the West Side Presbyterian Church lot on Monroe Street. Full information on the referendum, including answers to frequently asked questions, can be found on the Board of Education pages of the Ridgewood Public Schools Web site at ridgewood.k12.nj.us. A special e-mail address has been set up to handle questions at referendum09@ridgewood.k12.nj.us. Call the Office of the Superintendent with any questions at 201-670-2700, ext. 10530

Business helps cancer patients

The John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) in conjunction with Tejase Yoga of Ridgewood, is again offering a six-week, hour-long yoga class designed specifically for cancer patients. These gentle, beginner classes will focus on breathing techniques, guided relaxation, meditation to calm and focus the mind, and postures to facilitate flexibility and balance.

The series, which meets Wednesday mornings from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., will begin on Wednesday, Nov. 4 and runs through Dec. 16, with the exception of Wednesday, Nov. 25. The class will meet in the conference room of Hackensack University Medical Plaza, 20 Prospect Ave., Suite 200 in Hackensack.

The fee for the six-week program is $90 per person; participants may also pay $15 per class.

Registration can be made by calling Penni Feiner at 201-657-3408, or Geri Topfer at 201-638-8000. Payment may be made in advance via cash or check made out to Tejase Yoga, 30 North Hillside Place, Ridgewood, NJ, 07450, and will also be accepted at the start of the first class.

For more information about this yoga class designed specifically for cancer patients, visit www.tejase.org.

Village Resident caught up in Federal Probe

The charges, brought as part of the government’s insider trading probe of Galleon founder Raj Rajaratnam, bring the illicit profits alleged in the case to as much as $53 million. Five of those charged today pleaded guilty and are cooperating in the investigation, prosecutors said.

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At the center of a new insider trading ring are Zvi Goffer, 32, a former Galleon employee who sought tips, and Arthur Cutillo, 33, a resident of Ridgewood, and an attorney at Ropes & Gray LLP and the ring’s key source of information, federal officials said. Goffer, founder of Incremental Capital LLC, paid tipsters including Cutillo for information on mergers and acquisitions, giving them pre-paid mobile phones so they could avoid surveillance, the U.S. said.

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Cutillo, who has since left Ropes & Gray, was allegedly at the center of the scheme, the government said. He provided Goldfarb with inside information on at least four proposed corporate transactions in exchange for kickbacks, according to court papers.

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Cutillo allegedly used disposable cell phones to pass along the tips to Goldfarb and Zvi Goffer, known within the ring as “the Octopussy,” a reference to the 1983 James Bond film starring Roger Moore. The nickname stemmed from a reputation for having multiple sources of inside information, the SEC said.

Click here to read the entire story

NJ EDUCATORS CONCERNED ABOUT FUTURE OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

Jennifer Husko - NBC - ( jhusko@nbc40.net)

Thousands of New Jersey Education Association members from across the Garden State converged on the Atlantic City Convention Center for the start of their annual two-day conference. Their focus is on success for every child but these public school teachers don't think our newly elected governor agrees.

Recognized as the largest educational gathering of its kind anywhere in the world, the NJEA convention's goal is harboring success of every child, but members are not too sure our newly elected governor, Chris Christie is on the same page. "Hopefully he can bring some good changes...I'm not very hopeful...from things I've heard," said Nicole Gizzi, 1st through 5th grade resource room teacher in Ridgewood, Bergen County.

After giving their unanimous endorsement, the powerful state teachers union is considering Corzine’s loss a major upset for public education in the Garden State.

The NJEA said during his first term, Corzine increased education funding and expanded the states preschool program to help close the achievement gap between urban and suburban students.

Meanwhile, governor elect Chris Christie’s urban education agenda includes increasing the number of charter schools and introducing state funded vouchers for parents to enroll them in.

Teachers in those areas aren't too happy. "I just hope they realize vouchers are a piece of garbage and that the only thing it does is absolutely nothing at all," said Anthony Beatini who has been teaching for 33 years in West New York, Hudson County.

Christie, who's own children attend Catholic parochial schools says he believes children do better in urban charter schools they attend 11 months out of the year than they do at urban public schools and public school teachers here at the convention have a different opinion. "There are really strong educators and to work in an urban area you have to really care about what you do I really don't think he knows what he's talking about," said Gizzi.

Christie defends his position by saying charter schools in Newark are teaching children at a third the cost of regular public schools.

He plans on asking for an audit of every school district in an attempt to uncover spending that doesn't directly help educate students.

Christie says he expects problems with the NJEA when he moves forward with his plans and members of the NJEA say bring it on. “I don't think he knows a lot about us, he doesn't know our strength."


The NJEA says New Jersey has been named one of the four smartest states in the country based on the quality of its public and elementary schools.

Rep. Scott Garrett - Health Care Update

As you know, the issue of health care reform is being hotly debated in the halls of Congress and throughout America. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is bringing the latest version of the health care bill to the floor of the House of Representatives this week. At more than $1 trillion and nearly 2,000 pages, H.R. 3962 is considered by many to be the antithesis of patient-centered reforms that would empower Americans to own and control their health coverage. This bill has the potential to limit choices, competition, and the possibilities for innovation. Conversely, I support health care reform that will ensure that America remains competitive in the 21st Century by making our system more portable, affordable, sustainable, effective and innovative.

I will be making my concerns known today, November 5 at noon on the West Front steps of the U.S. Capitol (House side), where I will join my Republican colleagues, as well as Americans from across the nation, for a House Call on Washington.

Given the significant changes to our health care system which would take place if this piece of legislation is enacted, I want to ensure that you have access to a copy of this bill, as well as the summary and report of H.R. 3962 compiled by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), and a reading guide to the legislation.

The text of H.R. 3962 - Affordable Health Care for America Act as introduced can be found here: http://docs.house.gov/rules/health/111_ahcaa.pdf

The CBO Report of H.R. 3962 can be found here:
http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/106xx/doc10688/hr3962Rangel.pdf

I would also like to point out some sections that I thought you might find of particular interest, as noted by this reading guide:

Page 94—Section 202(c) prohibits the sale of private individual health insurance policies, beginning in 2013, forcing individuals to purchase coverage through the federal government

Page 110—Section 222(e) requires the use of federal dollars to fund abortions through the government-run health plan—and, if the Hyde Amendment were ever not renewed, would require the plan to fund elective abortions

Page 111—Section 223 establishes a new board of federal bureaucrats (the “Health Benefits Advisory Committee”) to dictate the health plans that all individuals must purchase—and would likely require all Americans to subsidize and purchase plans that cover any abortion

Page 211—Section 321 establishes a new government-run health plan that, according to non-partisan actuaries at the Lewin Group, would cause as many as 114 million Americans to lose their existing coverage

Page 225—Section 330 permits—but does not require—Members of Congress to enroll in government-run health care

Page 255—Section 345 includes language requiring verification of income for individuals wishing to receive federal health care subsidies under the bill—while the bill includes a requirement for applicants to verify their citizenship, it does not include a similar requirement to verify applicants’ identity, thus encouraging identity fraud for undocumented immigrants and others wishing to receive taxpayer-subsidized health benefits

Page 297 - Section 501 imposes a 2.5 percent tax on all individuals who do not purchase “bureaucrat-approved” health insurance - the tax would apply on individuals with incomes under $250,000

Page 313—Section 512 imposes an 8 percent “tax on jobs” for firms that cannot afford to purchase “bureaucrat-approved” health coverage; according to an analysis by Harvard Professor Kate Baicker, such a tax would place millions “at substantial risk of unemployment”—with minority workers losing their jobs at twice the rate of their white counterparts

Page 336—Section 551 imposes additional job-killing taxes, in the form of a half-trillion dollar “surcharge,” more than half of which will hit small businesses; according to a model developed by President Obama’s senior economic advisor, such taxes could cost up to 5.5 million jobs

Page 520—Section 1161 cuts more than $150 billion from Medicare Advantage plans, potentially jeopardizing millions of seniors’ existing coverage

Page 733—Section 1401 establishes a new Center for Comparative Effectiveness Research; the bill includes no provisions preventing the government-run health plan from using such research to deny access to life-saving treatments on cost grounds, similar to Britain’s National Health Service, which denies patient treatments costing more than £35,000

Page 1174 - Section 1802(b) includes provisions entitled “TAXES ON CERTAIN INSURANCE POLICIES” to fund comparative effectiveness research, breaking Speaker Pelosi’s promise that “We will not be taxing [health] benefits in any bill that passes the House.”

Thank you for taking time to listen to my concerns with this legislation. Should you have any further questions or comments about this or any legislative issue, please do not hesitate to contact me in my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-4465. Also, please visit my website at www.house.gov/garrett to sign up for my e-newsletter with the latest updates.

Sincerely,

Scott Garrett
Member of Congress

BERGEN COUNTY SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT TO UPDATE MASTER PLAN

Bergen County Executive Dennis McNerney and the Board of Chosen Freeholders invite members of the public to participate in Master Plan visioning workshops scheduled to take place throughout the county. During the three sessions, the public and interested stakeholders will have the opportunity to contribute their ideas and to participate in facilitated discussions with neighbors, peers and professionals to help shape the future of Bergen County.

“The county’s Master Plan has not been updated since 1973, “said McNerney. “The goals of the visioning workshops are to create a shared vision for the future of Bergen County, raise awareness of regional issues and encourage local municipalities to work with the county in order to meet present and future challenges. I encourage our citizens and business owners to attend a meeting in their region so that their voices can be heard in this collaborative process.”

The visioning workshops will be held in three different regions of the county. Each session will look at county-wide issues, as well as issues more specific to that portion of the county. The workshops, which are hosted by the Bergen County Department of Planning and Economic Development in conjunction with Regional Plan Association (RPA), a regional planning organization, are as follows:

November 14, 2009 - Northeastern Bergen
Demarest Regional High School
150 Knickerbocker Road, Demarest, NJ 07627

December 5, 2009 - Southern Bergen
Bergen County Learning Center, Bergen County Administration Building
One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ 07601

January 23, 2010 - Northwestern Bergen
The Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute
281 Campgaw Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430

The visioning workshops will run from 9:30 AM to 2 PM and a light lunch will be served. To sign up to attend a workshop, please visit www.co.bergen.nj.us/planning/masterplan. This Web site will be updated prior to each meeting and will list the agenda, directions to the workshop and a briefing book that will contain information on key topics for discussion.

Ketchup at a Council Meeting

Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce President Douglas Seiferling addressed the Chamber of Commerce concerns about the Village raising and adding fees, such as Ice Machine fees, Dumpster fees, Parking fees and Sewer fees, at a time when Businesses are facing a loss of sales and revenues. Stating the increase in the parking fee has deterred the public from coming to Ridgewood he asked that the Council consider reversing their decision.

The discussion between Mr. Seiferling and the Council escalated after Mr. Seiferling offered to Councilwoman Zusy a bottle of Annie's Naturals Organic Ketchup refering to Annie's letter to the editor about Ketchup Sandwiches. A very heated discussion ensued and Councilwoman Zusy stated that Mr. Seiferlings connection with the Ridgewood News and and the fact that three Ridgewood News reporters were at the Village Councl meeting along with his position as Chamber President was a conflict of interest.

Mr Seiferling shot back "What about your husbands association with CBS and the fact that CBS has been in Ridgewood, I would say that is a conflict of interest. Mayor Pfund had to step in and restore order by stopping the heated exchange.

Ridgewood Police Officer Rear Ends Another Vehicle

A Ridgewood Police car apparently rear ended a Toyota Matrix this morning. The accident occurred on Linwood Ave westbound just before N. Van Dien Ave in front of The Valley Hospital.

The police SUV was going west on Linwood Avenue just before Van Dien Avenue when it apparently rear-ended a Toyota Matrix at about 7:30 a.m..

Two people in the Matrix were taken to The Valley Hospital after they complained of pain. No mention was made if a cell phone call or text messaging was a contributing factor in this accident.
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And the final tally is........

Governor - 6242 of 6305 Precincts Reporting - 99%

Christie, Chris

GOP

1,140,134

49%

Corzine, Jon (i)

Dem

1,040,404

45%

Daggett, Christopher

Ind

132,919

6%

State Assembly 40th District - 147 of 147 Precincts Reporting - 100%

Rumana, Scott (i)

GOP

42,053

33%

Russo, David (i)

GOP

41,800

33%

Agostinelli, John

Dem

21,458

17%

Bombace, Mark

Dem

20,974

17%

Green Acres Funding - Ballot Issue - 6245 of 6305 Precincts Reporting - 99

Yes

818,986

52%

No

744,814

48%

Early results for the 40th District

State Assembly - District 40 Results

Dem - Mark BOMBACE - 519 - 20.27%

Dem - John AGOSTINELLI - 560 - 21.87%

Rep - David C. RUSSO - 774 - 30.22%

Rep - Scott T. RUMANA - 705 - 27.53%

Write-In - 3 0.12%

Total of 2,561 votes - 100.00%"

Ridgewood Police Press Release 10/3/09

On October 29, 2009 a representative of Sprint PCS reported that someone had accessed the roof of 607 Franklin Turnpike and forcible removed approximately $2000.00 of copper from the cellular equipment. A second theft was discovered at the same location taking copper from T Mobile cellular sight.

On October 31, 2009 patrol responded to Rite Aid Pharmacy on report of a juvenile shoplifter. The juvenile was taken into custody after he was observed taking a bag of sunflower seeds and concealing them in his pants. The juvenile was released to his parents pending future juvenile court action.

On October 31, 2009 Patrol responded to a Spring Avenue residence on a report of a large party with underage consumption of alcohol. The officers observed the homeowner attempting to hide a half full can of beer under a parked vehicle. The responding officers also observed numerous juveniles attempting to flee the home and numerous containers of alcohol. Thirty five juveniles were taken into custody and released to their parents and four adults were released pending further investigation. During the incident one adult was arrested after breaking a window and attempting to flee. Gregory Guevara 19 of Ridgewood was charged with criminal mischief and obstruction of a governmental function. He was released pending a future date in Ridgewood Municipal Court.

On November 1, 2009 patrol responded to Rite Aid Pharmacy of report of a shoplifting. The store Manager reported that a male and female had been observed taking items from the store. When confronted they fled the store and left in a vehicle that was parked on Cottage Place. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

Pulitzer composer Paul Moravec to lead classical homage to Palisades Amusement Park

By Ronni Reich - NJ.com

Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Paul Moravec will head the Palisades Virtuosi’s upcoming “The Czech Connection” program with the world premiere of a newly commissioned work that will pay homage to New Jersey’s Palisades Amusement Park.

The concert will also feature “8 Bohemian Sketches” for flute, clarinet and piano by the legendary Karel Husa, two short works for solo piano by Antonin Dvorak, the “First Flute Sonata” by Bohuslav Martinu, “Concerto in Eb” for clarinet & piano by classical-era composer Jan E.A. Koeluh, and “Dreams of a Dancer” for flute, clarinet & piano by Czech-American composer Tomas Svoboda.

The performance takes place Nov. 21 at 8 p.m. at the Unitarian Society of Ridgewood, 113 Cottage Place, Ridgewood. The evening will begin with a pre-concert talk with the performers and commissioned composer at 7:15 p.m. A reception with the artists follows.

Tickets are $20 and $15 for students and seniors. Call (201) 488-4983, or e-mail reservation requests to the Palisades Virtuosi at virtuosi@att.net.

Halloween Booze Party Found by Ridgewood Police

Responding to reports of a noisy disturbance in the 600 block of Spring Avenue on Halloween night, Ridgewood Police Department officers entered a single family home and encountered 35 minors and one adult engaged in a wild booze party.

On minor was transported to The Valley Hospital by ambulance, suffering from a stomach ailment, and one adult male was arrested and transported into police headquarters. All other minors were released to their respective parents at the scene.

It is being reported that the homeowner was served a summons to appear in municipal court regarding the incident. It is not known whether she was present during the party.

Fire Department Called To A Garage Fire

Firefighters had no problem extinguishing a garage fire earlier today. Just before noon Firefighters were called to a home on Eastside Avenue where they found the outside of a garage burning. The video below was posted on YouTube courtesy of the Fire Department. The Fire Chief reported the cause of the fire to be improperly disposed embers from a fireplace.

Number of N.J. voters down from last year

The number of voters eligible to participate in Tuesday's election is down from a year ago.

New Jersey Secretary of State Nina Mitchell Wells said the state has 5.22 million registered voters, down from 5.35 million in 2008 when the presidential race brought a registration surge.

There are still more Democrats than Republicans — 1.77 million to 1.06 million. But Republicans have closed the gap a bit, adding some 5,000 voters since last year. Meanwhile, the number of Democrats dropped by a similar amount.

Nearly half of the voters — 2.51 million — are registered as "unaffiliated."

Wells also said that as of Thursday more than 179,000 ballots had been issued in the state's vote-by-mail program and more than 100,000 of them had been returned.

Quality Editing - PJ Style

The quality editing never stops on the Ridgewood Blog. This is the latest absolutely stunning Headline on PJ's Blog.......

the Ridgewood blog is endorses Chris Christie ,yes the fat guy for Governor

Make you wonder, exactly what is the IQ Score of the person who posted this wonderful Headline, I am guessing somewhere in the 50s.... maybe!

Ridgewood Views Web Site Page Hits and Number of Visitors

Ridgewood Views Thanks our Readers for our best month yet * October 2009 *

6,623 Visits
3,606 Unique Visitors
8,623 Page views

Thank you for your support and your story ideas and suggestions.

Andrew and Susan

NJN News on the streets of Ridgewood

On Thursday, October 29, 2009 NJN News came to Ridgewood to ask Residents About their thoughts on the race for Governor.

The segment is called "Voice of The Voters" The Residents interviewed in this segment are:

1. Mr. Thomas Berry (Ridgewood)
2. Mrs. Margaret Berry (Ridgewood)
3. Mr. Merf Basna (Waldwick)
4. Lynn Ann Anderson (Ridgewood)
5. Mr. David Rutherford Ridgewood)
6. Mr. Harald Schutzman (Fairlawn)
7. Mr David Brodsky (Belleville)
8. Mr. Jim Sandford (Ridgewood)
9. Mrs. Claire Phillips (Ridgewood)
10. Mrs. Nora Wong (Ridgewood)

Click here to see the NJN News Voice of the Voter

To view the video scroll down on the right side menu on your screen - The Voice of the Voters is the last segment.

The Annual Ridgewood Concert Band Veteran's Day Program

Annual Veterans Day Celebration Friday, November 6, 2009 8:00pm November 2009 Join Our Mailing List! Ridgewood Concert Band PO Box 151 Ridgewood, NJ 07451 201-493-9030 www.ridgewoodband.org Ridgewood Concert Band Annual Veterans Day Celebration! Musical Director and Conductor - Dr. Chris Wilhjelm Friday, November 6, 2009 @ 8:00pm West Side Presbyterian Church 6 South Monroe Street Ridgewood, NJ FEATURED HIGHLIGHTS Guest Conducting Appearance - Col. Michael Colburn, Director of the United States Marine Corps Band, The President's Own All current and retired United States Servicemen and Women invited free of charge PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Fanfare for the Common Man - Aaron Copland Variations on a Shaker Melody - Aaron Copland New England Triptych - William Schuman Midway March - John Williams Stars and Stripes Forever - John Philip Sousa Join us for the concert and reception following Ticket Information: Single event tickets available at the door on the date of the concert Adults: $20 - Senior (62+): $15 - Student: $7 Children, 13 or under, free with paying adult or senior For more information about our series, driving directions, subscribing information, and single event discounts, please visit our website at www.ridgewoodband.org or call us at 201-493-9030 Please feel free to introduce yourself to band members at intermission or at the reception following the concert! We want to meet you!

40th District Democratic Candidate Bombace's Letter to the Editor

To the editor:

My name is Mark Bombace and I am running to represent you in the New Jersey State Assembly and I am asking for your vote this Nov. 3.

As many of you know, my connection to Ridgewood goes back a long way and goes deep down. I was born and raised here, went to school here, became a firefighter here, and decided to raise my family in Ridgewood. I have been a part of the community, whether it was my six years on the Board of Education, running the R.O.C.K. program that gave free computers to families with children who could not afford computers, or serving in other volunteer capacities.

I deeply care about this town and that is why I am running for the New Jersey State Assembly. For too long, our elected officials, have forgotten what public service is: serving the public – nothing more, nothing less. If elected, I will be held accountable to you.

While our government is a representative government, I feel our existing legislators no longer represent us and haven't for some time. If you feel the same way, then consider voting for me because I believe that practical and common-sense thinking need to be core principles in tough times. So I am asking for your support this Nov. 3. If you have any questions, please visit www.40thdistrict.com. I look forward to hear from you.

Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce moves office

Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce President Doug Seiferling recently announced that as of Oct. 28 the chamber had moved its office to 27 Chestnut St., Suite 1B, due to "economic reasons." The chamber had been located at 199 Dayton St. since 1961.

"The chamber has moved to a new location in the middle of the Central Business District to serve our members better," Seiferling said.

The chamber’s phone number, 201-445-2600, and Web site, www.ridgewoodchamber.com, remain the same.

New Village Manager Kenneth Gabbert's Letter to the Editor

To the editor:

If has been my pleasure to serve the residents of the Borough of Little Ferry as borough administrator over the last three years. The Little Ferry community has much to be proud of with friendly residents, an environment supportive of the family, quality businesses and a dedicated municipal staff.

The town is blessed with a mayor and council who as borough leaders work in the residents’ best interest. In an era of very tight municipal budgets, the leaders have found a way to: make significant improvements to parks, recreational and field areas, provide a high level of road improvements and upgrading, enforce property maintenance and quality of life ordinances, and most importantly have a vision for the community that will create an even better Little Ferry. The town is in good hands.

A special thank you goes to the hundreds who serve the community as volunteers and the borough staff who truly are concerned with providing the best service to the community. All the best.

Borough Administrator

Little Ferry

Mr. Gabbert will start as the new village manager for the Village of Ridgewood on Monday, November 2.

A letter from Schools Superintendent Daniel Fishbein

Tomorrow is Halloween; a favorite day for children of all ages and the one holiday not linked to a specific "event." Our culture has established Halloween as an official celebration of the notion of good, old-fashioned fun. The timing couldn't be better. School's been in session for nearly two months, summer seems so long ago, leaves are falling and there is frost on the pumpkins. Halloween is one of the great joys of fall. Costumes and candy aside, it's wonderful to watch the village neighborhoods swell with happy children and adults. Everyone goes outside, rain or shine, shuffling through the leaves, engaging in the spirit of play and getting a breath of fresh air at the same time.

While most of Ridgewood's student learning takes place indoors, a fair amount of formal and informal instruction regularly occurs outside, especially on our playgrounds, playing fields and outdoor athletic facilities, as well as on field trips. The importance of play, fitness and fun is taken very seriously in the Ridgewood Public Schools. Our educators know the concrete benefits of physical activity and its links to the health of body and mind.

"Wellness" is the term used for the district's athletics, physical and health education and fitness programs. Wellness courses constitute a formal K-12 curriculum - an educational program with a mission statement and specific standards and philosophies that drive teaching, student expectations and assessment. The district's comprehensive wellness curriculum centers on the notion that "a working knowledge of wellness concepts and skills in health and physical education will empower our students to assume the lifelong responsibility to develop physical, social and emotional well-being." Teamwork is the key to our country's continued growth as a world economic power and there is no better place to learn teamwork than on our playgrounds, fields, tracks and courts.

The wellness curriculum requires unique educational spaces. The gymnasium is the indoor learning space; the playing fields, courts and track are specialized outdoor learning "classrooms." Those facilities are widely used by thousands of students during the school day, and on the weekends, too. Many of those student/athletes are also involved in the district's competitive extra-curricular athletic program. After the high school student athletes leave our facilities, the real excitement starts when literally thousands of younger students descend on Board of Education and village recreational facilities to live the dreams of wearing a uniform, being part of a team and learning to work together. These children, coached by moms and dads (who are also living their dreams) make new friends, solve problems, get dirty, get sweaty and take pride in representing the Village of Ridgewood.

I hope that over the next few weeks there will be a lot of discussion about the upcoming bond referendum on Dec. 8, which includes plans to upgrade two fields at the high school, as well as replacement of the bleachers and the running track. We will receive $2.1 million in debt service for these projects, in addition to $9.8 million in New Jersey State grant money to make much-needed repairs, upgrades and expansions to our school buildings. All of the facility improvements are important to the continued success of the district and the programs we provide to village children.

This weekend as you crunch through the leaves and go to watch a game at one of the fields, I hope you will consider the importance of the referendum on Dec. 8. If you have questions, please feel free to e-mail them to referendum09@ridgewood.k12.nj.us.

Enjoy Halloween and feel free to save me some candy corn.

National Federation of Independent Business - Help Save New Jersey Jobs

Longtime Employee May Be New Village Chief Financial Officer

Village Treasurer, Steven Sanzari may be the Village's next Chief Financial Officer (CFO) sources in the Village have told us. Mr. Sanzari has over 20 years of service in the Ridgewood Finance Office working with previous CFO James Ten Hoeve, who was appointed Village Manager in 2004, and CFO Dorothy Stikna took the CFO Position in 2004.

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Mrs. Stikna will be retiring in the next 3 to 4 months after serving the Village for less than 6 years. Mr. Sanzari appears like a good choice considering his knowledge and apparent support by fellow employees who have told us he will be a good choice for the CFO position. We wish Mr. Sanzari the best in his new position in the Village if he is selected.

Mr. Kenneth Gabbert Confirmed as Village Manager

The borough administrator for Little Falls, Kenneth Gabbert was officially appointed Ridgewood's newest village manager at last nights Village Council meeting. The vote to appoint Mr. Gabbert was not unanimous.

Mayor David Pfund, Deputy Mayor Keith Killion and Councilwoman Anne Zusy confirmed Gabbert's appointment, in a 3-0-2 vote.

Councilman Patrick Mancuso and Councilman Paul Aronsohn abstained from voting.

Mr. Gabbert is the Mayor of Saddle River, which Councilman Aronsohn said was a concern to him because he didn't believe Mr. Gabbert could "serve two masters."

"The person should have one professional responsibility... I think it's wrong to appoint a person who can't fulfill the job full time," he said prior to the official council vote."

Mr. Gabbert holds a masters in business administration from Arizona State University.

"It was hard enough break ranks," he said. "I think it was good enough to withhold my support."

Councilman Aronsohn said he never doubted Mr. Gabbert's qualifications, he just doesn't think someone should hold multiple municipal positions.

Mr. Gabbert officially starts Nov. 2.

BOE Invites you to a Meeting

If you've got questions about the upcoming Referendum for Ridgewood schools, if you're not sure what to think, or if you're leaning toward a "no" vote, I hope you'll come to the Community presentation TONIGHT at George Washington Middle School. Superintendent Dan Fishbein and Board members will be on hand to present details on the projects to be included in the Referendum and to answer any question you have.

This is a good chance to find out everything you need to know in order to make a decision. Don't rely on assumptions or rumors. Get the facts...you are being asked to vote on a detailed question with important implications for our district and our Village. After this meeting, whether you vote "yes" or "no," at least you'll know you made an educated choice.

Tonight's meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. in the GW Auditorium. If you can't make it tonight, a repeat meeting will be held on Monday, November 30 at GW. These meetings were especially set-up for voters who do not have children in the schools or parents who do not attend HSA meetings.

You can also find lots of Referendum documents, including drawings of proposed school additions, detailed spreadsheets of renovation costs, bond financing information, and much more, at the District website (shortened URL): http://tinyurl.com/yfavcbk.

Also, I have begun posting a few FAQs (and my personal opinions) on the Referendum on my blog: http://lauriegood.blogspot.com

Please be an educated voter (and, for that matter, please be a voter!) on December 8.

Laurie Goodman

Ridgewood Board of Education

Ridgewood Police Press Release 10/27/09

On October 20, a Tenafly resident reported that while her vehicle was parked at Whole Foods on Godwin Avenue an unknown person smashed her window and took multiple items from the car. A second incident was also reported at the same location on the same day. A Bergenfield resident reported the window was smashed on his vehicle and items taken. The matters are under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

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On October 22, 2009 a Stanford Connecticut resident reported that he had contracted with a business in Ridgewood for a mortgage modification. The victim had paid $2195.00 for the service in March of 2009. The victim had come to Ridgewood due to no work had been done on the mortgage. He found that the address that the business was located was vacant. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

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On October 23, 2009 Det. Peter Youngberg was responded to 495 Darby Ct. Ridgewood in an attempt to serve an arrest warrant. The subject of the warrant was not present at the home but later that evening Det. Youngberg observed Beom Joo of 495 Darby Ct pull up to the home. He had an outstanding warrant from Palisades Park. Det. Youngberg approached the accused and advised him that he was under arrest. The accused became belligerent and attempted to break free from him. During the arrest the accused also assaulted Det. Youngberg. The accused Beom Joo 46 was arrested and charged with resisting arrest and aggravated assault on a police officer as well as the outstanding warrant from Palisades Park. The accused was released after posting $10000.00 Bail for the Ridgewood Charges and $500.00 for the charges from Palisades Park.

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On October 23, 2009 Ptl. Robert Hirsch was approached by a representative of a Village realtor. She had found a person sleeping on the floor of an apartment at 8 Van Neste Sq. The party did not belong in the apartment and they wanted him removed. During the investigation it was determined that the person in the apartment had an outstanding warrant from the Ridgewood Municipal Court for failure to comply with a court payment plan. The accused Boliviar Sanchez-Rojas was arrested and remanded to the Bergen County Jail unable to post bail.

MWW Hires Paul Aronsohn

October 27, 2009 - MWW Group has named Paul Aronsohn vice president.

MWW Group (www.mww.com), one of the nation's top 10 public relations firms, announced today that Paul Aronsohn has joined the company as a vice president. Aronsohn brings nearly 20 years of experience working directly with elected officials, legislators, administrators and corporate executives. His extensive communications and public affairs background spans across both the public and private sectors. As a result, Aronsohn will service roles in both MWW's corporate and public affairs practice.

Aronsohn's experience includes senior public affairs positions at Pfizer Inc. and within the Clinton and McGreevey Administrations. Additionally, he currently serves as a Councilman in Ridgewood, N.J.

"Paul is an outstanding addition to our team. He brings extensive experience and perspective to our team, gained from having worked in high level positions in the private sector and in the top levels of federal and state government," said Michael W. Kempner, president and CEO of MWW Group. "His insider's knowledge and deep network of relationships will be a tremendous asset to our team and clients."

Before joining MWW Group, Aronsohn served as a public affairs executive at Pfizer Inc., where he led public affairs efforts to promote life enhancing, life saving medicines and handled issues management on international, national and regional levels.

Previously, Aronsohn ran for Congress in New Jersey's 5th Congressional District, receiving a higher percentage of the vote than any Democrat in recent decades. Prior to that, he served for a year as communications director and spokesperson for then Governor James McGreevey. Aronsohn also spent eight years working on foreign policy and national security issues as a member of the Clinton Administration. At the U.S. Department of State, he handled a wide range of international security matters - from non-proliferation to arms control to peacekeeping to Middle East policy. Aronsohn also served three American Ambassadors to the United Nations Madeleine Albright, Bill Richardson, and Richard Holbrooke.

Aronsohn is currently a Councilman in Ridgewood, NJ where he works on issues across both the public and private sectors. He is also a member of Rotary International and a Board Member of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association. He holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees from The George Washington University.

About MWW Group
MWW Group is one of the nation's top ten public relations agencies and is known for its results-driven approach to public relations and "Aim High. Deliver" commitment to client service. For four years in a row, MWW Group was honored with the #1 ranking in the Holmes Report agency client satisfaction survey. MWW Group achieved top rankings in the categories of account leadership, strength of account team, creativity, strategy and planning, and program execution. In 2008, MWW Group was named PR Agency of the Year by The American Business Awards and Mid-size PR Firm of the Year by PR News, in recognition of the firm's growth, strategic account leadership and industry-leading employee retention. MWW Group is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE: IPG).

Agostinelli & Bombace Take Part in Wanaque Reserve Political Action Committee Forum

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Matthew Jordan
Monday, October 26, 2009 (973) 714-6115

‘Rumana & Russo were no-shows at the town hall style meeting’

Ridgewood, NJ – John Agostinelli and Mark Bombace joined County Clerk candidate Keith Kazmark, Passaic County Freeholder candidates Domenick Stampone, Tahesha Way, and Evangeline Gomez to debate the issues and take questions from Wanaque Reserve residents. Candidate for County Clerk Kristin Corrado and Passaic County Freeholder candidates Mike Marotta and Deborah Ciambrone represented the Republicans. However, Assemblymen Scott Rumana and David Russo were both notably absent – joining Wanaque Councilman and Passaic County Freeholder candidate Ed O’Connell as the only candidates not to attend.

“Mark and I have maintained from Day One of this campaign that we will debate the issues in anytime of format with Scott Rumana and David Russo – however, they continue to evade their records,” stated Agostinelli. “Rumana or Russo didn’t even have the decency to send a representative from their campaign to take questions. It is a total lack of respect for the residents in Wanaque and the voters of the 40th District. Mark and I will represent every town in the 40th District – not just a select few. Assemblyman Rumana only seems to show up when it makes sense for him politically,” said Agostinelli.

“David Russo and Scott Rumana have shown a lack of respect for their constituents and have shown no interest in defending their record or stating to 40th District residents what their policies will be for the next 2 years,” stated Bombace. “If John and I are elected we reaffirm our pledge to hold town hall meetings every month in the 40th District – just like the one we attended last night – to hear directly from the voters and make sure we are a strong voice for them in Trenton.”

The Record endorses Corzine

The Record endorsed Gov. Jon Corzine for re-election, saying that the presence of State Sen. Loretta Weinberg (D-Teaneck) on Democratic ticket tipped the scales in the governor's favor.

"Corzine alone has been adrift in the State House. Weinberg is more than a skilled political navigator. She is the compass the Corzine administration has lacked. With Weinberg as lieutenant governor, we believe there will be change," the editorial said, noting that Corzine "has not been the governor most New Jerseyans wanted."

But The Record criticized Republican Christopher Christie for not outlining a specific plan to deal with next year's projected budget deficits, and said that they would rather Corzine appoint future Justices of the state Supreme Court.

"A Corzine-Weinberg administration would be unique because neither politician would be seeking elective office in 2013. Politically speaking, they have nothing to lose. Politically speaking, the people of New Jersey have their best shot at a strong leadership team that will have its eyes on public policy and not on political polls," The Record wrote. "We have no false expectations that Corzine will magically be transformed into an orator or necessarily into a great governor. We believe he will pursue social policies that matter to all the people of New Jersey. We intend to challenge him to fight for more ethics reforms and to work with both Republicans and Democrats. We challenge him to bring Republicans and independents into his cabinet. We challenge him to challenge the people of New Jersey to not accept the status quo. This is not magic. This is hard work."

The Record Endorses Rumana, Russo in the 40th District

THE REPUBLICAN primary campaign for the Assembly in the 40th District was not pretty to watch. The feud that had long simmered between Passaic County Republican Party Chairman Scott T. Rumana and his rivals, Peter Murphy and Michael Mecca, spilled over into a full-scale civil war.

There were two different Republican tickets in many Passaic County Assembly district races. But in the 40th, where Rumana was also an incumbent, the race was most bitter.

In the end, Rumana and his running mate David C. Russo beat back the challenge and seem in fit form as they head toward the home stretch in a heavily Republican district.

Indeed, the wounds from infighting have begun to heal, and there is little reason not to support the incumbents for reelection. Rumana, the former Wayne mayor, and Russo, of Ridgewood, are both attorneys. Russo seeks an 11th term in the Assembly. Both men are fiscal conservatives and social moderates, attuned to the values and concerns of their district and to the ever-escalating cost of living in New Jersey. Each favors leaner state government, and Rumana, in particular, has been an outspoken critic of the new, tougher regulations on affordable housing.

The problem we have with Rumana is not about policy. It is about his continued role as Passaic County Republican Party chairman. It might not have hurt his campaign for reelection, but certainly it hurts his party. More important, it is a distraction he doesn't need as he works for the people of the 40th District.

Russo and Rumana's challengers are Democrats John Agostinelli, a civil engineer from Little Falls and Mark Bombace, a firefighter and former school board member from Ridgewood.

Both men are earnest and eager and serious about public service. Agostinelli just missed being elected mayor of Little Falls a year ago. He sees many of Trenton's problems occurring because of a "lack of planning." Bombace believes the state's recovery rests on a stronger education system that measures "one student at a time, based on their individual potential."

Overall, though, and by comparison to their opponents, Agostinelli and Bombace lack governing experience and a full grasp of the issues and hard choices that must be made in Trenton in the coming term. Facing an $8 billion budget deficit, the Legislature needs as many fiscally prudent lawmakers as it can find. Rumana and Russo fit that bill.

The Record endorses Russo and Rumana for Assembly.

Funding school sports a priority in New Jersey

By DIANE D’AMICO Education Writer - http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/

School districts in other states have cut deeply into high school sports to save money. But public schools in New Jersey continue to add to the more than $200 million a year spent on high school athletics, making the state No. 1 nationally in championship-level sports.

The pressure to expand sports while tightening budgets has led to a policy tug-of-war between those who believe sports play a vital role in education and should be publicly funded through taxes, and those who believe parents should pick up at least some of the cost.

This year, sports teams at some high schools in Florida were told to become self-sufficient or be eliminated, and a football team in Massachusetts is being funded entirely by private donations, Athletic Business reported on its Web site last month. Hawaiians started a massive Save Our Sports campaign to raise $1.2 million cut from the budget.

Jerry Cantrell, president of the New Jersey Taxpayers Association believes parents should contribute to their child's extracurricular activities, be they sports, band, or chess club. New Jersey schools also budgeted more than $82 million this year for other extracurricular activities.

"It's gotten out of hand," said Cantrell, a former school board president whose son plays high school lacrosse. "It's just problematic to keep asking taxpayers to pay for it all."

Schools are relying more on "booster clubs" to raise money. But only 15 New Jersey public high schools require students or their parents to pay a fee to play sports or participate in other extracurricular activities, according to data collected by the New Jersey School Boards Association.

"It just hasn't caught on in New Jersey the way it has in other states," Mike Yaple, NJSBA spokesman said.

A bill proposed in the state Legislature would prohibit schools from charging activity fees.

Click here to read the entire story

RHS Girls Lacrosse Teams’ Car Wash

The Ridgewood High School Girls Lacrosse Teams’ Car Wash has been re-scheduled for Saturday morning, October 31, 2009 from 10:00 am through 2:00 pm in the RHS parking lot near the Ridgewood Ave. entrance.

Yes, the Car Wash is now on Halloween ! Its the perfect opportunity to come out and support your 2010 RHS Girls Lacrosse teams! For those who weren't able to see the girls play last season, our varsity team was ranked # 3 in the state and #37 nationwide by Laxpower!

Bring your dirty cars! ...and tell your friends and neighbors!

Our Car Wash is an important fundraiser. It will constitute a significant percentage of our organization's income in a challenging year of unprecedented cutbacks including helping us replace the JV assistant coaching position cut by the School Board. The funds will be used to support all levels of RHS girls' lacrosse and help Ridgewood stay competitive with the best teams in our state. "

Kids Eat Free on Halloween at Applebee’s

By Mel Fabrikant - The Paramus Post

This Halloween, Applebee’s, located at the Fashion Center, Route 17 North & Ridgewood Avenue, Paramus, is ‘treating’ all costumed kids to a free meal. Families who dine at Applebee’s anytime on Saturday, October 31 will receive up to four free Kids’ Meals with each adult entrée purchase. The free meal is valid for children in costume, age 12 and under, on any Applebee’s “Kids’ Menu” entrée, dine-in only.

“Before your pirates and princesses start gobbling up mouthfuls of sweets, we’ll be happy to treat them to a nourishing meal,” said Marina Nese, General Manager. “We’re looking forward to seeing the kids in costume and celebrating this neighborhood fun together.”

The Applebee’s "Kids’ Menu” features childhood favorites like: Chicken Tenders, Mini Cheeseburgers, Hot Dogs and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, all served with a choice of healthy steamed broccoli, celery with ranch dressing, applesauce or French fries. And, they can even satisfy their Halloween sweet tooth by adding a delicious dessert like the Oreo® Cookie Shake or Oreo® Cookie Sundae. (Offer valid only at participating restaurants on Long Island and in northern and central New Jersey. Free Kids meal entrée does not include a kid’s dessert.)

Agostinelli & Bombace Will Donate a Portion of Assembly Salaries for 40th District Grants

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Matthew Jordan

Thursday, October 22, 2009 (973) 714-6115

‘Running for office isn’t about padding salaries – but serving the people’

Ridgewood, NJ – John Agostinelli and Mark Bombace are pledging to donate portions of their Assembly salaries if elected in November to various grants throughout the 40th District. Agostinelli and Bombace will donate to various scholarship and educational opportunities to send a message to 40th District voters that their Number One reasoning for running is to serve – not to pad their salaries.

“John and I never got in this race to make money,” stated Bombace, “We want to give back to our communities – and since we are financially stable – we thought it appropriate to create more opportunities for the district by donating to various causes.”

“This was never about the salary that an Assembly member receives,” stated Agostinelli. “We want to give back to the various charities and scholarship organizations in the 40th. If we are honored to serve for the 40th District – this seems like a no-brainer to the both of us.”

Election Day is Tuesday November 3rd, 2009. The 40th Legislative District encompasses parts of Bergen, Essex, and Passaic Counties, including the following towns: Cedar Grove Franklin Lakes, Little Falls, Mahwah, Midland Park, Oakland Ridgewood, Ringwood, Verona, Wanaque, Wayne, and Wyckoff.

Ridgewood Police Press Release 10/20/09

On October 13, 2009, a Village landscape company, located on South Broad Street reported that his trailer had been entered but nothing taken from the trailer. The owner did find a trimmer that was outside the trailer missing. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 14, 2009 at 11:23 am patrol responded to a report of a suspicious man near the Quick Mart on Godwin Avenue. Officers Robert Hirsch and Joseph Youngberg responded and located Louis Tompkins of Hackensack. The caller reported that Mr. Tompkins had been in a vehicle outside the Quick Mart and stated to her and her infant son that he was going to get her and the child in his new car. The Victim quickly left the area and the accused started banging on the store windows. The accused was arrested and charge with Criminal Trespass and Harassment. A future court appearance has been scheduled.

On October 16, 2009 the same landscape company that had reported a theft on October 13 reported that unknown persons removed a trimmer and back pack blower from the rear of his truck. The trimmer was recovered on the railroad tracks. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 17, 2009 a Mastin Place resident reported that during the night someone had damaged numerous village street signs in the area of Mastin Place and North Maple Avenue. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 17, 2009 a Spring Avenue resident reported that she had parked her vehicle in the parking lot of 203 South Van Dien Avenue. When she returned to the vehicle the rear window had been broken by a softball size rock. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

ANNUAL CABBAGE NIGHT FESTIVAL AT JAMES A. McFAUL ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

The Bergen County Department of Parks invites Bergen County residents to Cabbage Night Family Festival on Sunday, October 25th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the James A. McFaul Environmental Center located on Crescent Avenue in Wyckoff. Admission, refreshments and events are free for all who attend.

At our Annual Cabbage Night Festival, admission is free and children can look forward to hay rides, pumpkin painting, hot dogs, cider, kettle corn and cotton candy, as well as face painting by Larissa Pelc and Emilie Vallespir. Free pumpkins will be given to each family while supplies last.

There will be a special performance by klezmer clarinetist Margot Leverett who joins forces with today's stars of klezmer and bluegrass and an American Revolutionary War camp followers re-enactment. For more information, please call 201-891-5571.

WHEN:	Sunday, October 25, 2009
	1 pm - 5 pm
WHERE:	James A. McFaul Environmental Center
	Crescent Avenue
	Wyckoff, NJ

N.J. motorists must remove snow from their vehicles, law states

By The Star-Ledger Continuous News Desk

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Legislation requiring both commercial and non-commercial drivers to remove snow and ice from their vehicle was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Jon Corzine.

“Operating a safe vehicle is important at all times, but especially when inclement weather is a factor,” said Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz (R-Union, Essex, Morris, Somerset), one of the bill's sponsors. “There are many stories of innocent drivers who have died or been seriously injured because of ice or snow dislodged from a truck or car.

The legislation provides that drivers make all reasonable efforts to remove snow or ice from their vehicle, including the roof, hood, trunk and windshield. In the case of a truck, the law applies to the cab, the top of a trailer or semitrailer being drawn by a motor vehicle, and the top of an intermodal freight container. Drivers who fail to comply with the law face a fine ranging from $25 to $75.

“We’ve all seen some drivers neglect to clean their vehicles and continue to create a hazard on the roads, even after road conditions improve and the weather clears,” said Assemblymen John Wisniewski (D-Middlesex), the Assembly transportation panel chairman and one of the bill's sponsors. “At the least, snow or ice falling from a vehicle may impair visibility for other drivers or shatter a windshield. At the worst, it could take a life.

Legislation Makes It Easier for Citizens to Perform Public Service

Legislation sponsored by Senator Bill Baroni (R-14) that would make it easier for concerned citizens to participate in their municipal government has been signed into law. The measure, S-1426/A-2784, is meant to help residents find out what positions are available on local authorities, boards and commissions, and to make it easy to apply for appointments to positions that are vacant.

“With numerous municipal authorities, boards and commissions to follow, it can be difficult for citizens to keep track of how their local government operates,” said Baroni. “With rising property taxes, we need more citizen involvement and this groundbreaking legislation – written in a bi-partisan fashion – will ensure that people have the ability to apply and participate when there are vacancies in their local government.”

The legislation requires the clerk of a municipality, or other official designated by a governing body, to maintain a directory of local authorities, boards and commissions. For each of those, the directory must include: the number of members or positions; a list of currently appointed members, along with their terms of office; vacancies that have not been filled; a description; a schedule of meeting dates and times; any required financial disclosure of members; and the appointing authority.

Additionally, the bill requires that a standard application be made available to citizens who wish to be considered for appointment to a municipal authority, board or commission.

“At a time where government needs to be more open and more responsive, this legislation will go a long way to let citizens in to take an active role in their government,” added Baroni. “The Citizen Service Act has the potential to reverse the trend of declining civic participation, and will provide local residents with the opportunity to participate in ways that can help keep spending and property taxes in check. This is about putting people above politics.”

Raise my (and other peoples) taxes, says millionaire Chuck Collins.

By David R. Francis, Staff Writer -wealthforcommongood.org

The scion of the Oscar Mayer family supports a House panel’s healthcare plan that would boost taxes for families earning more than $350,000 a year. He also advocates ending the Bush tax cuts for the rich right away, rather than when they expire at the start of 2011, and closing foreign tax havens to Americans.

Although the financial burden would be sizable, Mr. Collins is busy urging other wealthy Americans to sign a tax-me petition.

“The good news is there are still people out there willing to pay for the common good,” says Collins, whose nonprofit Wealth for the Common Good is collecting the names.

As of July 21, some 210 wealthy people had signed. Collins hopes to get more than 1,000 signatures before delivering it to President Obama and House leaders.

The idealist wealthy are “not as small a minority as one might think,” says Eric Schoenberg, an investor and Columbia University Business School professor, who also signed the petition.

It is “reasonable and fair” for “the people who have done best out of the economic system in the last 20 years” to pay in extra taxes the bulk of the cost of healthcare reform, says Mr. Schoenberg. “Healthcare ought to be a basic right of citizenship.”

His research suggests the really rich are more willing than the modestly rich to share their wealth for the common good.

There are other indications of idealism among business people and the well-to-do:

•Responsible Wealth, a nonprofit group that includes several wealthy members, has been advocating for years that the estate tax be retained.

•A group of business owners and leaders called Business for Shared Prosperity welcomed the July 24 rise in the federal minimum wage from $6.55 to $7.25 an hour, although it costs their firms more money.

“It is an unsustainable and dangerous downward spiral to push American workers into
poverty and expect taxpayers to pick up the bill for the consequences,” states Margot Dorfman, CEO of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

But wait! Don’t these taxes on the rich burden the very people who start the most firms and create the most jobs? Statistics suggest the burden is not overwhelming. Households with incomes over $250,000 have saved more than $700 billion from the Bush tax cuts of 2001 and 2003. The proposed graduated surtax under the House Ways and Means Committee’s healthcare plan would take back $544 billion over the next 10 years, providing about half the cost of the entire plan, calculates the Joint Economic Committee of Congress.

What that means is that even after digging deeper to help pay for expensive healthcare reform, the wealthy would still be paying less in taxes than during the Reagan administration – and far less than in President Eisenhower’s time.

In 1955, the top 400 US taxpayers paid 51 percent of their average income of $12.3 million (adjusted to 2006 dollars), according to Sam Pizzigati, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington. In 2006, the most recent data available, the top 400 paid 17.2 percent of their average income of $263 million in federal taxes.

That 17.2 percent rate is also “much lower” than tax rates for the rich in Britain, France, Germany, or Japan, he adds.

Nor, some economists note, did the US economy grow more slowly when taxes on the rich were far higher in the 1950s and 1960s – or grow more swiftly after the Bush tax cuts.

Our Comment to Mr. Collins - Write a check to the Government if you don't think you pay enough taxes - but just because you want to pay more taxes doesn't mean We want to pay more taxes!

Andrew and Susan

Make Mine Freedom (1948)

This Cartoon Seemed Far-Fetched In 1948

Not so Far-Fetched today.......

Bank of America Closing Branch in Ridgewood

The 54 E. Ridgewood Ave banking center will permanently close on 01/29/10.

Click here to see this Branch Website

Thanks for the info Anonymous at 6:41 PM

Agostinelli & Bombace Endorsed by Bergen County Sheriff Leo McGuire & Local Elected Officials

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Matthew Jordan
Monday , October 19, 2009 (973) 714-6115

‘Endorsements show broad support in the 40th District’

Ridgewood, NJ – Today 40th District Assembly candidates John Agostinelli and Mark Bombace were endorsed by Bergen County Sheriff Leo McGuire and local elected officials in Bergen and Passaic Counties - including Ridgewood Councilman Paul Aronsohn, Wanaque Councilwoman Karen Cisco, Little Falls Council President William Liess, Little Falls Councilman Paul Huggins, and Little Falls Councilman Joseph Sisco.

“John and Mark will be a great asset to the 40th District in the State Assembly – bringing a real world experience that we need in the Assembly,” stated Sheriff Leo McGuire. “I look forward to working with them to bring a renewed leadership and accountability to our shared constituents.”

“Mark Bombace has been a real leader in Ridgewood – as a fire fighter, President of the Board of Education and a community leader - and will be a great addition to the State Assembly,” stated Ridgewood Councilman Paul Aronsohn. “In the time I have gotten to know John he has shown a grasp of the issues facing our families and willingness to work hard every step of the way.”

Election Day is Tuesday November 3rd, 2009. The 40th Legislative District encompasses parts of Bergen, Essex, and Passaic Counties, including the following towns: Cedar Grove, Franklin Lakes, Little Falls, Mahwah, Midland Park, Oakland, Ridgewood, Ringwood, Verona, Wanaque, Wayne, and Wyckoff.

www.40thDistrict.com

Small Businesses In Ridgewood Crushed Under Weight Of Increased Costs, Plummeting Sales

RIDGEWOOD, N.J. (CBS) Reporting - Lou Young

The lingering effects of the recession are taking a heavy toll on some small-town business districts.

One New Jersey town, in fact, is about to lost its 37th business, even though some are saying the national recession is technically over.

The crisis on Main Street can be seen through the windows of 36 vacant storefronts in tiny Ridgewood, New Jersey.

"It's very disturbing because this is a beautiful place, and it's really a shame," shopper Laura Csatay says. "Everyone misses the stores that are going out."

The surviving merchants, like the owner of the town's independent bookstore, say small businesses are being squeezed like never before.

"I think it is a confluence of events: the rent, the lack of traffic, the influence – in a community like Ridgewood – Wall Street must have on our customers," bookstore owner Walter Boyer says.

There are a lot of Wall Street workers in the community – or at least there were. The owner of the gourmet Cheese Shop, in business since 1961, says their bad luck is his too.

"People aren't entertaining anymore; everybody's afraid, so it's destroyed us," cheese shop owner Rick Breitstein says. "We're closing in a few weeks. Right now, it's a Friday – we should have a line here, and we're by ourselves."

To make it worse, store owners say some landlords are acting like nothing has changed.
In a town like Ridgewood, commercial rent runs about $50 a square foot. For a small business, that's about $4,000 to $5,000 each month. For big shops, that's a five-figure nut to crack every month, even when sales are down and costs are up, as they are now. Merchants say that has to change.

Click here to read the entire story

Village Finds a New Village Manager

Mr. Ken Gabbert, Administrator for the Borough of Little Ferry, has given notice to the Mayor and Council of Little Ferry of his intention to leave his position in order to take the position of City Manager for the Village of Ridgewood. Mr. Gabbert also serves as the Mayor (R, term ends December 31, 2011) of Upper Saddle River.

On February 20, 2009, Mr Gabbert along with 234 Bergen County Republican leaders endorsed Chris Christie’s candidacy for Governor. “Chris understands the issues most important to Bergen County, and has real solutions to cut taxes and keep our businesses and jobs here

In 2005 Mayor Ken Gabbert and former Montvale Board of Education member Jeff Hering ran against 39th district incumbents John Rooney and Charlotte Vandervalk in the Republican primary. The results were

Charlotte Vandervalk received 5,541 votes

John E. Rooney received 5,528 votes

Kenneth A. Gabbert received 3,035 votes

Jeffrey Hering received 2,718 votes

Mr. Ken Gabbert is also a member of The Upper Saddle River Republican Club.

Is the Village Council Slowly Killing the Business District?

The national economic downturn, coupled with a number of other factors and newly created and escalating fees in Ridgewood, has led to a rising number of vacant storefronts in the village’s C

On a walking tour of downtown Ridgewood late last month, The Ridgewood News, accompanied by Joan Groome, executive director of the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, found 36 empty storefronts in the CBD.

Business owners point to a variety of factors that have led to the decline of the business district.

Last year, the Village Council created an excessive sewer discharge fee. Properties that discharge more than 109,000 gallons of water into the collection system annually are being billed anywhere from $100 up to $10,000, based on the village’s calculation method.

"But realize it’s not just the Central Business District for the sewer discharge [bill]," said Acting Village Manager Heather Mailander. "It’s for any significant dischargers."

In August, the council doubled the parking rates in Ridgewood to 50 cents an hour. The enforcement period was changed from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. to 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and free parking is now offered in municipal lots on Saturdays. Visitors to downtown Ridgewood still have to pay 50 cents an hour for street parking for Saturday. Village officials cited the debt incurred from environmental testing and legal fees associated with the failed parking garage project at North Walnut Street and Franklin Avenue as the reason for the parking rate increase.

In September, the council began to charge businesses a fee to have Dumpsters in the Chestnut Street parking lot. The annual fees range from $300 to $400 per Dumpster depending on its size. The village also charges $50 to $150 a year for waste oil containers, depending on their size, and an additional $50 per 10 gallons of volume increase for oil containers larger than 30 gallons.entral Business District (CBD).

Click here to read the entire story

Another Readers View on the Schools Code of Conduct...

As a caveat to anything I’ve ever said here: I’m joking. PLEASE don’t take these things seriously. I have some spare time on my hands as of late, so here I am. After reading most of my silliness I would hope it is apparent that I’m poking fun at both sides here. The writer of the other blog has their opinions and viewpoints and is at the very least, shall we say, ummm... “keeping an eye on things”. What bugged me was the dismissive nature of the significance and importance of this issue over here. I think when it comes to your child, school policies are worth a serious in-depth examination. But there is a difference between a “serious in-depth examination” and swearing you “saw some guy on the grassy knoll”… the point being – no need to get carried away.

Based on the limited information I have, personally I have no problem with what RHS is trying to do, but it is the execution of this idea that I question.

I don’t think subjecting students to “Awareness Programming” will be a very effective deterrent. I also think that imposing different penalties on different groups within the student body for the same crime / Code violation (underage drinking in this case) is an inequitable distribution of punishment.

If a student gets busted for underage drinking the punishment for this violation as administered by RHS is to require a student to participate in a “Checkpoint Awareness Program” which educates students about the dangers of alcohol abuse (seriously people – just have the guts to call it what it is: Alcohol Awareness Programming… jeez) However, if a student gets busted for underage drinking the punishment for this violation as administered by the state of New Jersey is to more than likely require them to participate in an “Alcohol Awareness Program” which educates underage drinkers about the dangers of alcohol abuse. It just seems redundant. Let’s also not forget that the court systems can administer community service. I could be wrong on this, but given a high school student’s young age AND close proximity to their parents, why not let the NJ legal system and parents handle the punishment aspects of underage drinking violations and instead have RHS issue some kind of suspension for ALL students who are arrested for this kind of crime? After a certain amount of suspensions are issued – an academic suspension might be appropriate. This type of system is used at both public and private Universities. At RHS NOTHING is more embarrassing than being held back.

Ultimately the parents are the ones that have the most power and control over this situation and no amount of programs or codes can even come close to the power parents wield. Unfortunately parents are human and make mistakes… such as… I don’t know… leaving their teens alone in their house and left to their own devices. Whether complicit in these activities (I HAVE known of instances where parents tell their teens “We’re going on vacation next month during this weekend. Be good “wink-wink”) or naïve to them, parents MUST NOT leave their teens unsupervised in their homes for days at a time. Your kids may be smart, they may be sweet, and they may be responsible, but Jesus – they’re NOT your PEERS. They’re kids… and SOME of them have the movie “Jackass 2.0” playing on a loop inside their post-pubescent noggins.

- Chris Kringle

NFPFA to give a Presentation in Ridgewood

National Association of Personal Financial Advisors, "Can I Afford to Retire?" Program to be held at 7 to 8:30 p.m., Ridgewood Public Library, 125 N. Maple Ave. Speaker: Laura Mattia. Free. Call 201-791-6408.

The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors is the nation’s leading organization of Fee-Only comprehensive financial planning professionals.

Since 1983, NAPFA's ranks have enjoyed steady growth, operating under a strict code of ethics and our widely recognized definition of Fee-Only compensation. NAPFA members are trusted, objective financial advisors for consumers and institutions alike.

Individuals join NAPFA to enhance skills, market services and be a part of a collective, influential voice on matters that affect them and their clients. Through the Find an Advisor search function NAPFA offers consumers access to truly comprehensive, strictly Fee-Only financial advisors.

At NAPFA, it is all based on a simple, straightforward mission. Professionals who become a NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor are committed to the Core Values of the organization and agree to follow the NAPFA Fiduciary Oath and Code of Ethics.

Mission

To promote the public interest by advancing the financial planning profession and supporting our members consistent with our core values.

Ridgewood Police Press Release for 10/13/2009

On September 29, 2009 Ptl Patrick Elwood conducted a motor vehicle stop on Oak Street for speeding. During the stop one of the juvenile occupants were instructed to get out of the vehicle. One juvenile started trying to put something in his pants. Ptl Elwood recovered a bag containing 9 glassine bags of marijuana. The accused juvenile was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession with Intent to Distribute. The juvenile was released pending a hearing in Juvenile Court.

On October 6, 2009 a village landscape company reported an entry to his trailer that was parked in the rear of a South Broad Street residence. He found that seven trimmers and three back pack blowers were taken. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 9, 20009 at 10:17 pm patrol responded to a Grove Street residence on a disturbance. Responding officers were informed that Peter Biegel of New York City had been found lying on the front lawn of his home. When the resident asked him what he was doing Mr. Biegel began yelling and became violent. The officers attempted to speak to Mr. Biegel and he again became very agitated and acting in an alarming manner. Mr. Biegel was arrested and charged with Obstruction of Justice and Disorderly Conduct. He was released pending a future appearance in Ridgewood Municipal Court.

On October 10, 2009 a Wanaque resident reported that an unknown person had used her debit card at the Hess station on Goffle Road. The victim had used the card in the morning and when she realized it was missing called her bank and they reported it was used. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 11, 2009 at 6:05 am an employee of Wilkes Deli 283 East Glen Avenue reported that someone was attempting to break into the business. The employee saw a white male in his twenties flee the area. A Bergen County Police K-9 unit responded and conducted a search of the area but did not locate the actor. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 11, 2009 at 6:49 am the owner of Wilkes Deli located at 4 South Pleasant found that the store had been burglarized during the night. An unknown person had entered the store by breaking a window then taking numerous items including the cash register. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 12, 2009 at 7:00 am a village landscape company reported another entry to his trailer that was parked in the rear of a South Broad Street residence. He found that a trimmer and two back pack blowers were taken. The matter is under investigation by the Ridgewood Detective Bureau.

On October 12, 2009 Ptl. Patrick Elwood and Anthony Mormino responded to a Cedar Avenue residence on a report of people entering a garage. Ptl. Elwood opened the garage door and observed 4 people sitting in the vehicle and smoke billowing out of the vehicle. The four juveniles were arrested and charge with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia. They were released pending a hearing in Juvenile Court.