METUCHEN • EDISON • FORDS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 2021
criterionsentinel.com
Democrats choose Joshi over Bhagia for party line in Edison mayoral primary By REBECCA HERSH Correspondent
I
n what is usually behind-the-scenes power wrangling, the feud between Edison’s local Democratic Party members and the Middlesex County Democratic Organization (MCDO) has gone public. The MCDO denied the will of the Edison Democratic Party Committee by throwing its official support behind Edison Councilman Sam Joshi for the Edison mayoral position, instead of backing Mahesh Bhagia, the candidate favored by the Edison Democrats. Bhagia, who serves as chair of the local Edison Democratic Party, won the local party’s endorsement in February by a 3-to-1 margin. According to a statement issued on April 8, the Middlesex County Democratic Committee, whose chairman is Kevin McCabe, awarded the “party line” for the Edison mayoral position to Joshi. This means that Joshi’s name appears on the ballot in the “regular” Democratic column. Joshi, who serves as vice president on the Edison Council, and his running mates will now appear on the MCDO county line along with Gov. Phil Murphy, NJ State Senator Patrick Diegnan, NJ Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, NJ Assemblyman Sterley Stanley, Claribel Cortes for Surrogate, and Ronald Rios and Shanti Narra for County Commissioner. Bhagia will still run in the primary, but his name on the ballot will be outside of the Democratic Party column. If elected, Bhagia, a former special assistant to Edison’s current Mayor Tom Lankey, would become the first South Asian mayor in Middlesex County. Lankey, who has secured the support of neither the Edison Democratic Party nor the MCDO, has said that he
Sam Joshi
may run as an independent for the position of mayor. The rhetoric between the Joshi and Bhagia camps has gotten heated with accusations of racism being part of the
attacks on both candidates. Bhagia’s supporters reportedly have accused Joshi of having a history of racism against the Chinese community in Edison, including most recently refusing to condemn Edison’s Special Assistant to the Mayor Nilesh Dasond for his alleged racial slur against Chinese. However, the MCDO’s refusal to back Bhagia reportedly is due to the fact that they claim he has indirect ties to campaign fliers that they deemed racist that were circulated during the township’s 2017 school board election. His brother Raj Bhagia was among the eight people named in a U.S. Postal Service report who were supposedly involved in creating the “false flag” fliers that were allegedly circulated to instill fear among Edison’s minority residents. In mid-March, the New Jersey Attorney General’s office subpoenaed Edison Township for documents related to the anonymous racist flyer and empaneled a grand jury to determine if anyone will be charged. “We all worked hard to go through the legal process to receive the MCDO line, but the party bosses decided to put their self interest first,” Bhagia said in a statement. “I am running for open and transparent government and vendor reform.” Joshi, upon receiving the endorsements from leading New Jersey elected officials – including Murphy, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, NJ Senate President Steve Sweeney, NJ Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, and the entire Middlesex County Board of Commissioners – said that he was “honored and humbled to gain this level of support and these endorsements. … We must bring Edison together to move forward, and I know that I’m the right candidate to get that important work done” according to a statement he released.
Demands to dismiss Edison mayor’s assistant accused of racist remarks By REBECCA HERSH Correspondent
C
alling themselves “Asian American community leaders” with connections to Edison, more than 150 individuals signed a statement demanding that the mayor and town council fire Nilesh Dasondi, who is the special assistant to Edison Mayor Tom Lankey. Dasondi, who was appointed to the special assistant to the mayor’s post five weeks ago, allegedly made comments reflecting “hate” and “racism” toward Chi-
nese Americans, when he referred to COVID-19 as the “Chinese Virus” in several messages in 2020. The accusation of racism by one Asian ethnic group against another Asian ethnic group in Edison is striking because the share of Asian residents in Edison is 48.7%, an estimated five times larger than the share of Asians in New Jersey’s population as a whole, according to 2019 U.S. Census Data. In addition, racism has become a major issue in the Edison mayoral race, and was during the 2017 school board election.
According to the statement from the self-described community leaders, they “have seen a rise of hate against the Asian community in the past couple weeks and it is unacceptable and disgusting. We are one community, one town and we will not stand to see the top positions in Edison Town Hall held by those who show hate towards Chinese Americans.” “The fact that Mayor Lankey and the Edison Council have been silent on this is unacceptable. We stand together and must send a clear message that hate has no home in Edison and our leadership must repre-
sent that,” the statement went on to say. Multiple attempts to reach Lankey were unsuccessful by press time. Among the 150 people who signed the statement to stand against hate and racism are: Edison Board of Education President Mohin Patel; Edison Board of Education Vice President Shannon Peng; Edison Board of Education Member Dr. Yunxia “Yuna” Chen; Edison Board of Education Member Mahesh Bhagia; and Edison Democratic Chairman Raj Bhagia.
2 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
April 21, 2021A
GREENHOUSE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK HELP WANTED Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 9am-3pm CASHIERS LOOK FOR THE RED TRACTOR AND CART On the west side of Federal Rd. PULLERS Family Farm
GaskosFamilyFarm.com
m.
W
Home Grown MIX-N-MATCH Shrubs
Greenhouses
732-446-9205
112 Federal Road, Monroe Twp.
Alberta Spruce | Boxwoods Assorted Holly | Gold Thread Cypress Azaleas | Barberrys | Junipers Many, many, more
“THE PLANT WAREHOUSE” OPENING SPECIAL
BLACKFREE MULCH DELIVERY
15
$
UP TO 15 MILE RADIUS OF THE FARM AND 15 YARD MINIMUM LOAD. $50 DELIVERY CHARGE FOR DELIVERY IN A 15.1- 25 MILE RADIUS FROM THE FARM. STILL LANDS IN YOUR YARD AT LESS THAN $18.50 PER YARD
cu. yard
LARGE FORSYTHIA BUSHES $
2 for 25 $12.99 Each
Great Selection of
PERENNIALS
4 for 10 $
15 GALLON POT LARGE SIZE
2 for $120 LOTS OF 6” POTTED ANNUALS
2
$
Each
MURTLE - IVY PACASANDRA
9
$
99
PER FLAT
DECORATIVE STONE 50 LB. BAGS
3 For $12 $4.99 each
3
$
5’ - 6’ $
100
FOR
3999
Each
ALL PURPOSE
5
24
BAGS FOR
15
$
1-CU. FT. BAGS
8” WANDERING JEW HANGING BASKETS
$12 99 3 for $ 99
Perennial
4
Each
Complete line of Jersey
MOUNTAIN PINKS VEGETABLE (Creeping Plox)
8” $ 4 Pots 10
2
$
QUALITY TOP SOIL
LARGE 3 GALLON POTS $1099 Each
4
$
100
FOR
2999
FULL OF COLOR! 14” COCONEST BASKETS
Each
99
FINAL COST: $1 PER BAG MAIL-IN REBATE: $2 PER BAG
UP TO 10-BAGS
3
$
99 Each
CANNAS
2
$
8” Pot $
10
FOR
5
99
EACH
MANY MA NY COL OLOR ORS OR S TO CHOO CH OOSE OO SE FRO ROM M
Great Selection of Jersey
HERBS $ 99 FLAT $ 99 OF 32
Each
SUPER DEAL
40 lb. Bags
BLACK MULCH
7 For $10
5 For $1099
2 Cu. Ft. Bags
PLANTS
8
MIX-N-MATCH
Flat
14
FLAT OF 12 MIX-N-MATCH
CASH OR CHECKS ONLY!
No Debit or Credit Cards
12
12” EARTH POTS
4’ - 5’ $
MIRACLE GRO GARDEN SOIL
FULL FU LL OF CO COLO LOR! LO R!
$
30
FIELD GROWN FLOWERING ONLY $ 99 EMERALD GREEN ARBS
FLOWERING LARGE URNS
99
GROUND COVERS
$69.99 Each
FOR
$
NOBODY Comes Close to Gasko’s Quality, Selection or Price!
1 GALLON POT $2.99 Each
LEYLAND CYPRESS AND GREEN GIANT ARBS
3
LOTS OF FRUIT TREES TO CHOOSE FROM
LOTS OF COLOR! 10” FLOWERING BASKETS
Each
ONLY
1799
$
Each
ONLY
9
$ 99 Each
Grea Gr eatt Fo ea For AL ALL Yo Your ur G ar arde deni de ning ni ng N ee eeds ds! ds
MIRACLE GRO POTTING SOIL MOISTURE CONTROL
MAIL-IN REBATE: $2 PER BAG UP TO 5-BAGS
2 FOR 12 $699 $
Each
FINAL COST: $4 PER BAG 1-CU. FT. BAGS
MIRACLE GRO POTTING
MIX
MAIL-IN REBATE: $2 PER BAG UP TO 10-BAGS
$ FOR 2 BAGS 10 $599
FINAL COST: $3 PER BAG
Each
$ FOR 2 BAGS 10 $599
Each
Brown Cedar & Red Mulch
PEAT MOSS
4 for $10
$6.99 each
2 cu. Ft. Bags
1-CU. FT. BAGS
ORGANIC RAISED BED & CONTAINER MIX
2 for $12 2.2 cu. Ft. Bags
1.5 CU. FT. BAG
POTTING SOIL OR COMPOST MANURE
4 for $10 40 lb. Bag Mix & Match
April 21, 2021
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 3
Middlesex County adds pickleball courts to Thompson Park, fitness course at William Warren Park
M
iddlesex County opened new recreation facilities and exercise equipment in two county parks. The additions include six new pickleball courts at Thompson Park located in Monroe Township and Jamesburg, and a new outdoor fitness circuit at William Warren Park in Woodbridge Township. “The new pickleball courts and fitness circuit are excellent additions to these parks,” Middlesex County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro said in a prepared statement. “We’re proud of our county parks and the opportunities they provide for Middlesex County residents to enjoy the outdoors. We hope that these new offerings in Thompson Park and William Warren Park will bring even more residents out to our parks.” Additionally, the athletic courts at Spring Lake Park in South Plainfield have received a makeover. Pickleball Courts One of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, pickleball was created in 1965 and combines many of the elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. The six new pickleball courts in Thompson Park were created from two former tennis courts, according to the statement. The courts open at sunrise and are equipped with lights so play can continue until 10 p.m. The new pickleball courts are part of a larger renovation of athletic courts at Thompson Park, which is the largest developed park in the Middlesex County Park System. The renovations also included the resurfacing and renovation of two tennis courts, four basketball courts, and one handball court, according to the statement. Fitness Circuit In William Warren Park, the new fitness course includes a 17-station outdoor circuit of exercise equipment. Visitors to the park can choose from a stationary bicycle or elliptical trainer for a cardio workout, a situp bench or pull-up bar for strength training, or the cargo climber or high stepper for agility.
FYI For a complete list of community announcements, visit emsentinel.com or www.centraljersey.com. Any calendar items not appearing in the printed version of the newspaper will appear online. To submit an event for publication, send details via email to news@emsentinel.com. The deadline for submissions is noon on Thursday.
The fitness circuit is equipped with rubber safety surfacing to cushion the impact of any workout. Equipment is cleaned and sanitized daily, but it is recommended that visitors protect themselves by bringing hand sanitizer or wipes to use during workouts, according to the statement. Warren Park and the fitness circuit are open from sunrise to sunset. Visitors are encouraged to check with their doctor before beginning any new ex-
ercise regimen, according to the statement. Athletic Courts In addition, Spring Lake Park in South Plainfield is now sporting refreshed tennis and basketball courts. The county resurfaced four tennis courts and, in the process, double-lined two of the courts so they can be used for pickleball as well as tennis. While these are not dedicated pickleball courts, they do give park visitors the option to play tennis or pickleball on those
two courts, according to the statement. The pickleball courts, fitness circuit and refreshed athletic courts are available to all Middlesex County residents and visitors to enjoy. Park visitors are asked to practice social distancing and are strongly encouraged to wear a mask while enjoying county parks and outdoor spaces. For more information about the Middlesex County Park System, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/about/parksrecreation.
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Deepa Patel, MD as Director of our New Indian Program. Dr. Deepa Patel
Dr. Patel is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and graduated from the Baroda Medical College, Gujarat, India in 1993. Her office is located at 2 American Way #3, Spotswood, NJ 08884. (732)416-0065.
Pine Brook Care Center is please to offer a program for Indian seniors that require short or long term care. This program will be under the supervision of Dr. Deepa Patel, a well respected and experienced geriatric physician. This program honors and respects the needs of the Indian seniors. We offer Indian residents a place where they can be amongst their peers for socialization, enjoy vegetarian meals cooked with traditional spices, religious services. They also can participate in recreational activities that reflect their culture and still receive the medical care and emotional support they need and deserve.
AT PINE BROOK CARE CENTER... WE CARE! CALL DIANA CANDELL FOR A TOUR 732-446-1469 or cell: 732-277-7365 www.pinebrookcare.com
104 Pension Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726 NM-00458786
4 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
April 21, 2021A
Metuchen’s Team Vaccine rocks booking vaccine shots By GLORIA STRAVELLI Correspondent
T
hanks to a team of civic-minded volunteers, close to 1,000 residents of the Borough of Metuchen have had appointments scheduled to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. “As of today, we are getting very close to 1,000,” Laura Hale, a member of the borough’s all-volunteer Team Vaccine, said on April 15. “It’s been a little over a month now that we are doing this, and basically the numbers will go up because of the new age range. As of Monday, [April 19], everyone 18 and over can be vaccinated.” When they began making vaccine appointments for residents who were not able to do so themselves close to a month ago, the Team Vaccine volunteers worked at home during the early hours of the morning, booking appointments for residents as available spots were posted online. Their efforts were mainly for seniors who do not have an Internet connection or tech skills. “Typically most of the action begins at 11:45 p.m. and goes to 2:30 a.m.,” Hale said previously. “We call those the ‘magic hours,’ all of the chain pharmacies release their appointments at midnight. I’m tech savvy so I know what to do. I have multiple devices. You have to move so fast.” After just three weeks, volunteers had booked some 600 appointments, averaging 40 a day, she said. “We had a long list of seniors and everybody had gotten an appointment already,” she said.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEAM VACCINE METUCHEN
Volunteers who are part of Team Vaccine Metuchen are helping those in the community secure COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
“We’re up in the middle of the night, that’s essentially when we get the bulk of the appointments and we do a lot of outreach at home during the day. We call the seniors on the list and talk to them. We had a day at the senior center.” “We have this ‘It Takes a Borough’ initiative and this is what we’re categorized under. It was created at the beginning of the pandemic to help the people who were homebound or who couldn’t get groceries, and now it turned into the demand for vaccines. “We have this network of people in town. You know, Metuchen people want to help Metuchen people and I think a lot of people are very appreciative.” To coordinate, members of Team Vaccine check in with each other every night. “A group message goes out every night,
it’s a group chat,” Hale said. “We’re able to connect and collaborate that way.” Mayor Jonathan Busch said residents reached out to the borough, especially those who are not tech proficient and had been unable to book appointments online, which was the impetus for Team Vaccine. “I heard from many people that it was really difficult for them to find appointments,” he said. “We assembled a team of resourceful volunteers, people who have no problem getting up in the middle of the night and know where to go and how to get appointments for people. “We started off with the first batch of people and it was incredible how [the volunteers] turned things around. If you look at the comments on my social media page it was incredible how people responded.” Now, Team Vaccine has taken its mis-
sion on the road. “We’re now setting up tables in town at the senior center or outside a downtown shop or on a street corner,” Hale said. “We’re advertising on Facebook: Come down and see us, we’ll help you. “We help them if they don’t have the Internet or know how to deal with a Google form.” Now that eligibility has been extended, Hale said, Team Vaccine will be able to book appointments for residents who are 18 and older. “We have a little over 20 volunteers now. And the momentum is amazing! Everyone wants to help, to volunteer,” she said. “Now that the availability of the vaccine is better, volunteers can secure appointments night and day. “The mayor reported that about 45% of adult residents in town have received at least one vaccine shot. That’s a pretty big number.” According to Hale, plans called for adding a mobile unit provided by the Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey that would administer the Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine. However, use of the J&J vaccine has been put on hold by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control due to concerns about reactions in some people who received the vaccine. “We haven’t heard anything, but there are still plans for a mobile clinic in town,” Hale said. (Continued on page 6)
Free COVID-19 testing offered at Edison Housing Authority
I
n partnership with Edison Township, the Edison Housing Authority (EHA) will provide no-cost COVID-19 testing from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Monday and every second Friday of the month. “With the health and safety of our EHA families and staff coming first and foremost, we wanted to ensure continued access to no-cost testing until the pandemic subsides,” Deborah Hurley, executive director of EHA, said in a prepared statement. As of April 12, WellCare, TCCM will conduct testing at Robert Holmes Gardens, 14 Rev. Samuel Carpenter Blvd., Edison, every second Monday of the month; and
beginning April 16, at Julius Engel Gardens, Willard Dunham Drive, Edison, every second Friday of the month. All participants with or without symptoms will be required to maintain social distance of at least six feet and wear a mask at all times. While insurance is not required, participants should bring a form of photo identification and, if available, their medical insurance card. Participants may receive a statement from their insurance company itemizing the services rendered (Explanation of Benefits), but this is not a bill. Call 908-561-2525 for information.
Classified...................................................... 12
on the web: www.centraljersey.com
Crossword.................................................... 10
PHOTO COURTESY OF PUNCHLINE PUBLICITY
The Edison Housing Authority will offer free COVId-19 testing.
Editorials......................................................... 6
April 21, 2021
n
,
s
e
g
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
UNIQUE APPROACHES FOR EVERY KNEE
r
e
We know every knee is different. So we worked with an elite global team to reinvent knee replacements with advanced robotics. And now the fit is more customized, more personalized and more precise. Down to the half millimeter. Find a physician at HMHorthopedics.com.
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 5
6 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
The Criterion
Sentinel
Team Vaccine
Editorial: 732-358-5200 Fax: 732-385-8868 Email: news@emsentinel.com Sports Email: sports@emsentinel.com
(Continued from page 4)
Advertising: 732-358-5200 Fax: 732-385-8868 Email: sales@emsentinel.com
Jennifer Amato
Managing Editor
Joe Eisele
Home Delivery
Publisher
Call circulation 800-989-9969 Email: circ@emsentinel.com Fax: 732-385-8868
Perry Corsetti
Chief Operating Officer
April 21, 2021A
Online at criterionsentinel.com
Volume 18, Number 35 The Criterion Sentinel is published Wednesday by Newspaper Media Group, LLC, 198 Route 9 North, Ste. 100, Manalapan, NJ 07726. For mail subscription information, call 800-989-9969.
Volunteers are also organizing a “Pay it Forward” food drive, to benefit the local food pantry in response to an outpouring of gratitude. “Because there are so many people who want to thank us, the emails and thank you cards coming in are amazing,” she said. “We are going to partner with the food pantry in town. Pay it Forward Day will fill the pantry in appreciation for Team Vaccine. “It’s like the ripple effect, one small act
LANDEX NURSERY
Our 29th Season Serving Monmouth & Ocean Counties - 1000’s of Assorted Evergreens & Landscape Trees & Shrubs Extensive Selection, Over 100,000+ Plants To Pick & Choose From! Our Selection Has Never Been More Extensive!
SIX ACRES PACKED WITH TOP QUALITY STOCK!! OPEN 7 DAY 7:30AM-5:00PM
GREEN GIANT ARBORVITAES Deer Resistant
48 68 125 165 195 350 450
Pot or Burlapped .................................... $ Pot or Burlapped .................................... $ 15 Gallon Pot Burlapped ...................... $ Wire Basket .......................................... $ Wire Basket .......................................... $ Monster Size ........................................ $ $
4 - 5’ 5 - 6’ 6 - 7’ 7 - 8’ 9 - 10’ 11 - 12’ 12 - 14’ Monster Size .......Almost Sold Out ......
LELAND CYPRESS 6-7’ - 15 Gallon ................. $89
95 9-10’ - Burlapped .......... 165 7-8’ - 15 Gallon .................
$
$
LARGE SIZED
EMERALD ARBORVITAES HARD TO FIND LARGER SIZES
8’-9’ Wire Basket 5’
While they last!!
SUPER SPECIAL
$
245 $
49
BOXWOODS - BOXWOODS - BOXWOODS!
1000s IN STOCK, ASST SIZES! EXCELLENT PRICES!!
12 $ 3 Gallons 20”-24” 16!! 2 Gallons 15”-18”
$
24”-30” Field Grown Beauties 49 SUPE R SPEC IMEN SIZES $ 30”-40” High & Wide, GREAT 85!! $
WEEPING JAPANESE
RED MAPLES
31/2 - 4’ $99 Best Deal in Town PERIOD! Also 41/2 - 5’ Awesome Price $169 25 GALLON POTS
SKIP LAURELS 1000s in stock! Asst Sizes
3’-3½’- $4900 4’-4½’ $7900 4½’-5’ $9900 6’ $16500 ASST NURSERY SUPER SPECIALS 15 GALLON WEEPING CHERRIES $9900 BEAUTIFUL 5’-6’ JUNIPER SPIRALS $12900 EXTRA NICE 5’-6’ EMERALD GREEN SPIRALS $12900 ALBERTA SPRUCE SPIRALS 3½-4’ $12900 7-8’ JANE MAGNOLIAS. NICE! BIG $12900 7-8' SNO FOUNTAIN CHERRIES $12900 7-8' PINK WEEPING CHERRIES $12900 ICE GREAT PR + DEAL! T A E GR
$
149
12 HOWELL RD • FREEHOLD, NJ 07728 • 732-462-8523 OR 732-757-7281 CALL FOR SUPER EASY DIRECTIONS • OPEN 7 DAYS: 7am-5pm
NO NEED TO COME IN!! CALL YOUR ORDER IN FOR FAST DELIVERY SERVICE!
… I’m really happy I was able to do this,” Hale said. “The volunteers were so eager to help. People young and old, all different ages. It’s a very diverse group of vol- B unteers, we have a 17-year-old boy and we M have retired teachers, people working tech all day, tons of diverse people.” Busch said Metuchen is justifiably proud of Team Vaccine and has high praise for the volunteers. “We have tremendous pride in this program. It’s one of those things you think of it and then it actually achieves everything you’d hoped,” the mayor said. “Councilwoman Sheri-Rose Rubin is the liaison to the program and has been an integral volunteer. We are so blessed with these incredible people who have helped us take up arms against this incredible virus. “It’s just remarkable, I don’t know anywhere in the county, certainly in the state, I don’t know anywhere in the country that is doing this. “We’re so happy and proud of our work and lucky to have these incredible volunteers who are highly resourceful. We’re a small town but we’ve been doing some pretty big time things.” Residents must be registered with the New Jersey Vaccine Registry at https://covidvaccine.nj.gov/covid. For information about the Team Vaccine program, visit metuchennj.org and click on the Team Vaccine icon.
A
BULLETIN BOARD Woodbridge High School will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” at 7 p.m. April 22-24 and at 2 p.m. April 25 on the Mayor’s Stage at Woodbridge High, 1 Samuel Lupo Place, Woodbridge. Suggested donation is $10. Call 732-602-8600 for more information.
Puzzle answers
April 21, 2021
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 7
Middlesex County, municipalities join initiative to reduce flood risk
By JENNIFER AMATO
Managing Editor
A
coalition of local Middlesex County leaders and technical experts announced the launch of the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative, which will identify and implement flood risk reduction strategies for the Raritan River and Raritan Bay region to improve long-term environmental and economic resiliency. This joint effort led by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, in partnership with Middlesex County and its municipalities of Carteret, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Sayreville, South Amboy, South River, and Woodbridge, is supported by Arcadis, according to information provided by the county. To ensure an equitable approach to resiliency, the project team is seeking input, information and recommendations from local residents regarding their own experiences with flooding and storm events. Specifically, the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities initiative will work to address flooding from coastal storms, high tides, heavy precipitation, and overflowing riverbanks. Community engagement is critical to ensure an impactful outcome, according to the statement. “We are excited to work with municipal and county leaders in the Resilient NJ regions to identify locally-driven regional solutions to current and future flooding” New Jersey Chief Resilience Officer Dave Rosenblatt said in the statement. “Strengthening New Jersey against today’s climate threats is an important part of our longterm approach to climate resilience and we applaud these leaders for their vision and initiative.” “While the county has strengthened its flood resilience since Hurricane Sandy, the partnering municipalities are still vulnerable to increased flood risk from increasingly intense storm events, sea-level rise, and climate change,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said in the statement. “The announcement today is symbolic of the county’s continued commitment towards future-forward projects that build a strong foundation for our com-
munities to thrive for generations to come. We’re eager to hear from constituents who live and work in the region to participate in this long-term resiliency plan to ensure that it is reflective of their social, economic and physical priorities.” Community members interested in sharing their perspectives, recommendations and experiences can contact the team through a variety of channels including: • Downloading the project’s app, IRYS • Visiting the project’s website at www. resilient.nj.gov/rrbc • Engaging on social media at @ResilientRRBC • Leaving a voicemail at the multilingual project hotline, 732-661-3808 • Participating in future virtual public
meetings and focus groups. Additional information is available on the project website. “As we have experienced in recent years, strong storms are becoming more frequent and intense, and it does not take a full-scale hurricane to cause serious flooding or damage. There are over 3,000 acres of regulatory floodplains within Woodbridge Township and these areas encapsulate both riverine and coastal environments. While these unique geographic locations provide expansive benefits for ecological resources and passive recreational opportunities, they also present heightened risk during storm events that we must plan for now to best ensure safety in the future. Addressing these flood threats must be taken
seriously and mitigation will not be effective, sustainable, or equitable without examining hazards across municipal boundaries. We look forward to partnering with the Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities project as we embark on a collaborative approach to address flood risk and resilience through a regional initiative,” Mayor John E. McCormac, Woodbridge Township, said in the statement. The Resilient NJ: Raritan River and Bay Communities project is expected to be completed in May 2022. The project will be conducted in waves to account for public input at every point in its development, according to the statement.
Relieve Back Pain Now
93% of patients with low back pain IMPROVED AFTER TREATMENT. BASED ON REAL HISTORICAL ANALYSIS OF IMPROVEMENT ON OSWESTRY OUTCOME SCORES | MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED
BULLETIN BOARD
732.234.9107 NM-00456310
The Metuchen Piano Project is a unique canvas for artists. Help roll out the downtown pianos in time for spring. For more information and details, visit www.downtownmetuchen.org/ Application deadline is April 23.
www.profysionj.com
8 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
CASA volunteers are a ‘constant for the child in a time of chaos’
A
pril is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and CASA of Middlesex County is raising awareness of the need for more dedicated members of the community to step up and become CASA volunteers, and support abused and neglected children and their families. CASA volunteers, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are everyday people from all walks of life who are recruited and specially trained to advocate for children in foster care and provide a consistent, reliable adult presence for them during a difficult time in their life. Last fiscal year, CASA of Middlesex County served 157 children, which equates to 45% of the 352 children in Middlesex County who were in foster care during that time. This represents a 25% increase from the number of children served during the year prior. “We still have work to do,” said Stephanie Brown, executive director, in a prepared statement from CASA of Middlesex County. “We need your help to ensure that no child has to navigate the foster care system alone.” In particular, CASA is in great
need of more male and bilingual Spanishspeaking volunteers. CASA volunteers are trained, committed community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children in Middlesex County. CASA volunteers are assigned to one child or sibling group to advocate for their best interests in court, in school and at home. They get to know the child and everyone involved in their life, such as their parents and other family members, foster parents, therapists, caseworkers and teachers, in order to develop a realistic picture of the child’s unique situation, according to the statement. They engage those important to the child and family in order to build a network of support around them, so that the family has access to support and resources after the case ends. They make recommendations to the judge overseeing the child’s case, with the goal of ensuring that the child is safe and the family has the resources, support and healthy relationships needed to heal. “CASA volunteers are a constant for
(Continued on page 9)
BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND
CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER!
15
% & OFF
YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE *
TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS ONLY! **
WE INSTALL
YEAR-ROUND! LIFETIME WARRANTY
Promo Code: 285
2
ER GUA
5
% OFF
SENIORS & MILITARY!
OFF
FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET!1
D
1
’S
GU
TT
NATIO
R
E
N
TH
+
10
%
Subject to credit approval. Call for details.
1
CALL US TODAY FOR
A FREE ESTIMATE
1-844-942-1478
Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST *For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. **Offer valid at time of estimate only 2The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” Manufactured in Plainwell, Michigan and processed at LMT Mercer Group in Ohio. See Representative for full warranty details. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 WA UBI# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2705169445 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 0086990 Registration# H-19114
April 21, 2021A
Metuchen taps library for new municipal clerk By GLORIA STRAVELLI Correspondent
METUCHEN — Deborah Zupan, who was the principal librarian at the Metuchen Public Library, was appointed as the new municipal clerk by a unanimous vote of the mayor and council. “The most important thing I want to say is that we will have a new borough clerk,” Mayor Jonathan Busch said shortly before the council meeting adjourned on April 12. “As we all have come to realize, our clerk has a significant role. The clerk serves as our board secretary, essentially, and has a major administrative role. “We have an incredible candidate tonight who works at the library, we are stealing her from the library. … This was a concern because we’re a smaller community and we don’t have the ability to attract candidates from around the state. “Deb applied, she is everything we want. A superstar for this position. Congratulations Deborah Zupan, our new borough clerk,” Busch said. “I don’t know how to follow that introduction,” Zupan responded. “I have seen a lot of you around town. I’m excited for this opportunity to continue serving the people of Metuchen. Thank you for your confidence in me.” Zuppan began her new role on April 13. She replaces Susan Jackson; Jackson’s reason for leaving were not disclosed by press time. Zupan has held the position of principal librarian at the Metuchen Public Library
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAYOR JONATHAN BUSCH
Deborah Zupan, the principal librarian at the Metuchen Public Library, was appointed as the new municipal clerk for Metuchen.
since October 2018. Previously, she served as reference librarian for the City of Plainfield from September 2006 to October 2018. She attended the State University of New York at Buffalo, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1991 and an MLS in Library and Information Science in 1992. She was co-owner of Marafiki Fair Trade in downtown Metuchen. She is a member of the board of the Metuchen Chamber of Commerce as well as a member of the Metuchen Downtown Alliance.
Help Wanted Ad AustarPharma, LLC in Edison, NJ is seeking a Staff Accountant in Edison, New Jersey to prepare and analyze financial reports and financial forecasts, develop and maintain budgeting systems, prepare cost allocation for commercial products, forecast revenue, prepare and analyze profit and loss, prepare fixed assets report and assist year-end closing. MS degree in Accounting, Finance, or other closely related field, with at least 6 months of experience in ERP systems, especially in Kingdee and Flyrise are required. Send resume to: Ms. Jennifer Chiu c/o AustarPharma, LLC at: 18 Mayfield Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837
April 21, 2021
Volunteers (Continued from page 8)
the child in a time of chaos,” Brown said in the statement. “A child may have multiple social workers, attorneys, therapists and foster placements throughout the life of the case but we make every effort to ensure they have only one CASA volunteer, which can make all the difference for the child’s future.”
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
Recently, just two days after a 7-yearold child moved to a new foster placement, in a new town, with a new school, the CASA volunteer visited and the child ran to the volunteer shouting ‘you found me’ with excitement over seeing a familiar, caring face, according to the statement. Throughout April, in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, CASA of Middlesex County is calling on members of the community to help our program serve more of Middlesex County’s most vulner-
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD The Metuchen Arts Council is joining with the Metuchen Human Relations Commission to schedule virtual Community Conversations around the issues highlighted in 2021 Windows of Understanding Public Art Project. The third in the series will take place at 7:30 p.m. April 21 on the topic of climate change. Artists Lauren Curtis, Maja Opacic and Mickey Waring were commissioned by the Metuchen Arts Council to create art that illuminates the mission of the Edison Greenways Group. Walter Stochel, vice president of the group, will participate in the discussion about their mission and their work to enhance the quality of life in our community. View live on Facebook at www.face-
book.com/MetuchenHumanRelationsCommission In addition to the Community Conversations, the Metuchen programming for the Windows of Understanding Project includes an exhibition in the Metuchen Public Library Gallery of art that was commissioned around the topics of food insecurity, youth engagement, public health, trauma and recovery, as well as climate change. The complete exhibition can be accessed virtually exhibit from the Metuchen Arts Council website at www.metuchenartscouncil.com. For more information on Windows of Understanding, visit http://www.windowsofunderstanding.org or on Instagram at @windowsofunderstanding, #weseethroughhate.
THERE ARE SOLUTIONS FOR ADDICTION.
ASK ABOUT MEDICATION THAT CAN SUPPORT RECOVERY.
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 9
able children. A child in foster care may have faced physical, psychological and/or emotional trauma only to endure long periods of uncertainty in the system as they wait to go home or be adopted, according to the statement. All this chaos and inconsistency has long-term effects. But having a caring, consistent adult who listens, checks in and puts the child’s best interests first can change this story, according to the statement.
Children with a CASA on average receive more services while in care, do better in school, spend less time in foster care, are more likely to be adopted, and are less likely to be bounced from home to home, according to the statement. To become a volunteer or make a donation, visit casaofmiddlesexcounty.org, call 732-246-4449, or email info@casaofmiddlesexcounty.org.
For a complete list of community announcements, visit emsentinel.com or www.centraljersey.com. Any calendar items not appearing in the printed version of the newspaper will appear online.
NM-00456187
Thousands of people with substance abuse disorder have been successfully treated with medication that can support recovery. Get the facts on how FDA-approved medication in combination with counseling and therapy can help you or a loved one get well again. There’s a wonderful life waiting.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
New Jersey Department of Human Services
Talk to your doctor, or call
844-REACHNJ
10 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD The Middlesex County Regional COVID-19 Vaccine Mega-site, operated by RWJBarnabas Health, is seeking volunteers to assist in the efficiency of the registration and vaccination process and help visitors feel comfortable. Volunteers of the mega-site, located at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, will greet patients and visitors; perform temperature screenings; direct patients through various steps of the vaccination process; provide education materials; and assist with maintaining the registration area and supplying vaccination stations. Volunteers do not administer vaccines. Those who apply to volunteer must be a minimum of 18 years old and will be
April 21, 2021A
THE OSCARS
subject to a background check and a drug screen, and will need to sign a confidentiality statement. College students requiring community service hours are also eligible to volunteer. RWJBarnabas Health will track hours and provide written verification for those who need it. Volunteers must commit through June to at least two shifts per week from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.; or one full day from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with an hour break for lunch. Shifts are available seven days a week. Send your name, phone number, email address, desired start date and your availability to Megasite_Volunteer@rwjbh.org.
Celebration of Life Pansy Winnie Shook Pansy Shook, born January 30th, 1922 went Home to the Lord, her husband, family and friends on March 26, 2021. Pansy was born in Minneapolis, in the High Country of North Carolina to Jim and Nola Winters. She had a twin sister, Grace Bevan and sisters; Emma Caraway, Elsie Hall, brothers; William, Albert, Sam, Ray and Craig. Pansy grew up on Big Horse Creek and attended church at the Lewis Chapel there. After World War II Pansy married Verne H. Shook in 1947, also from Minneapolis. They lived briefly on Big Horse Creek before moving north to Metuchen, New Jersey to take advantage of the housing construction boom in that area. Pansy was a homemaker while raising her daughters prior to working for the Chanel Corporation in Piscataway, New Jersey until her retirement at age 65. She was an active member of Christ Community Church in Piscataway, as well as one of their longest standing members. She enjoyed staying active gardening, antiquing and sharing her happy memories of North Carolina. Pansy went to spend the winter in Kauai with her daughter LaVerne in 2016, as she had often done in the past - only to remain there. She is survived by her two daughters LaVerne Bishop of Kalaheo, Kauai, Yvonne Prohaska (husband-Bernard) of East Brunswick, New Jersey and granddaughter Ariel Lilinoe Bishop. Visitation will be held on April 24th from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, 296 Ash Street, Newland, N.C. 28657 to be followed by a 12:00 graveside ceremony at Mount Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery, 1161 Balm Highway, Banner Elk, N.C. She will be missed by all.
Answers are on page 6
ACROSS 1. Hedgehog of video games 6. And so forth, acronym 9. *Oscar-nominated black and white movie 13. Treeless plain 14. Grazing field 15. Moses’ mountain 16. Sty sounds 17. Nelson Mandela’s org. 18. Like beer at a kegger (2 words) 19. *Posthumous nominee 21. *Anthony of “The Father” 23. “What’s up, ____?” 24. Huge pile 25. Protestant denom. 28. Feed storage cylinder 30. Load again 35. Relating to ear 37. Flighty one 39. Proclaimed true without proof 40. Musician David Lee ____ 41. Ascetic holy
Hindu 43. Eastern European 44. Plural of #10 Down 46. 500 sheets 47. Looking for aliens org. 48. Kitchen whistler 50. Wails 52. Bad-mouth 53. Medieval torture device 55. Pied Piper follower 57. Politburo hat fur 61. *Daniel of “Judas and the Black Messiah” 65. Raspberry drupelets 66. Fuss, to Shakespeare 68. Void, as in marriage 69. Defective car 70. Given name of Jack Kerouac’s Paradise 71. ____ of Honor 72. Adam and Eve’s first residence 73. Money in Myanmar 74. Shoemaker with-
out shoes, e.g. DOWN 1. Undesirable roommate 2. Medley 3. Grannies, in UK 4. Tattooed 5. Universe 6. Panache 7. *Most 2021 Oscar nominations for one film, #9 Across 8. Secret storage 9. Stole fur 10. One opposed 11. Indian restaurant staple 12. U.S. customary unit of force, pl. 15. Soaked 20. DNA and RNA 22. Argonaut’s propeller 24. Shared work surface at an office 25. *Sasha Baron Cohen’s “Subsequent Moviefilm” role 26. Be sorry for one’s wickedness 27. Pita, in UK 29. *Like Roberto Benigni’s fictional son 31. Husband to a
widow, e.g. 32. Checked out 33. Stradivari competitor 34. *”Fences” winner and “Ma Rainey” nominee 36. Poker ante 38. *“Nomadland” director 42. Shadow 45. *The Trial of the Chicago 7” screenwriter 49. Greek “t” 51. Sandwich sausage 54. Necklace lock 56. Radio receiver 57. Nutritious leafy green 58. Got A+ 59. Ice on a window 60. Happening soon, old fashioned 61. Caffeine-containing nut tree 62. Editing arrow 63. Chinese monetary unit 64. Friend in war 67. *Nominee for Billie Holiday role
1April 21, 2021
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 11
Senate approves legislation to spur countywide, K-12 school regionalization
O
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD The Arts Institute of Middlesex County is presenting a multitude of arts and culture events throughout April, primarily centered around National Poetry Month. Explore everyday family and community life in the Bahamas through paintings and poetry in a reading of “Under the Sunday Tree,” then create your own everyday scene or portrait in paint, virtually at 4 p.m. April 28. Visit www.middlesexcountynj.gov/ Artsculture for full details on all the events. To honor National Poetry Month, the Arts Institute will also present a series of videos and content on www.middlesexcountynj.gov/PoetryMonth
Chug Ivrit for intermediate to advanced Hebrew speakers will meet at 11 a.m. April 25, socially distanced, in Rachel Weintraub’s backyard, 120 Highland Ave., Edison. Attendees will read a Hebrew article or story and chat in Hebrew. To RSVP, contact Rachel at rachel@ weintraubworld.net or 732-819-9298. Together Edison, in cooperation with the Greater New Brunswick Area League of Women Voters, will host a virtual Democratic Mayoral Primary Forum on April 25 at 7 p.m. Questions will be curated prior to the forum. To view the forum live or rebroadcast, visit www.facebook.com/TogetherEdison
be entitled, or the sum of the aid of the consolidated districts including the eight-year Adjustment Aid phase-out. Studies into the feasibility of establishing a countywide school district or a K-12 regional district incorporating any existing regional high school and its current sending districts would automatically receive preliminary approval for participation, according to the press release. The legislation would permit regionalization studies to be undertaken without a formal vote by all sending districts to participate. In those cases, the regionalization study would include an option for merger of just the officially participating districts and a second option for full regionalization that would also include sending districts not signing a participation letter that might choose to join the newly created regional district after seeing the study results. Only districts signing participation letters would be eligible for a reduction in their Adjustment Aid cuts, according to the press release. The bill requires the state education commissioner to certify that regionalization would not have an increased segre-
gative effect in any affected district, and provides for accrued tenure and seniority rights to carry over into any newly created or expanded regional districts. “We believe all students would benefit from the curriculum coordination and enhanced learning opportunities that come from attending a K-12 or countywide district,” Sweeney said. “But regionalization is particularly important for small districts with declining enrollments that are having an increasingly hard time providing a quality educational experience and making their budgets work. “One-school districts with fewer than 500 students spend 17% more per pupil than the 60% of New Jersey districts with 1,000 or more students, and those include the large urban districts and comprehensive K-12 districts that are supposed to spend more under the state formula. Regionalization makes sense,” he said. In a press release, the New Jersey School Boards Association said it “supports the bill because it represents a voluntary, incentive-based opportunity for school districts to explore regionalization and determine if it would be beneficial to their students and their communities.”
Legal Notices PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 5/6/2021 at which time the bid proposals submitted will be downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Route 26, Cox Road to Nassau Street, Contract No. 002153980, Resurfacing, Township of North Brunswick, City of New Brunswick, County of Middlesex Federal Project No: NHP-0026(303) UPC NO: 153980 DP No: 21117 Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid. The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award. Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Phone: 973-601-6690
One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625 Suburban, Criterion Sentinel 4/14/2021, 4/21/2021, 4/28/2021 Fee: $378.00
SHOP LOCAL
flexibility to design a regionalization phase-in that makes sense for all,” Gopal said. According to the senators, officials in Salem County are currently conducting a countywide school district feasibility study with a state-funded Local Efficiency Achievement Program (LEAP) grant, and officials in Pinelands Regional in Ocean and Burlington counties and Roosevelt in Monmouth County are using LEAP grants for K-12 regionalization studies. The new legislation provides an expedited preliminary approval process to enable districts that are losing Adjustment Aid to readjust their 2021-22 school budget to factor in the increased state aid they would receive for participating in regionalization studies in the first year, according to the press release. “This bill does not force schools to consolidate, but it removes some of the impediments that can prevent districts from moving forward with plans that can benefit taxpayers and students,” said O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth). “For school districts to make informed decisions, feasibility studies are essential. We don’t want the costs associated with these studies to discourage districts from exploring options that could save money in the future,” he said. The legislation establishes an eightyear phase-out of Adjustment Aid cuts – stretched out from the current four years – for districts participating in a LEAP regionalization study that continues only if they move forward and implement a regionalization plan, according to the press release. Through 2028-29, newly established countywide districts or K-12 districts would receive the greater of the state aid to which the newly established district would
Support The Businesses In Your Area!
n March 25, the members of the state Senate unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Democratic Senate President Steve Sweeney, Democratic Sen. Vin Gopal and Republican Sen. Declan O’Scanlon to encourage the voluntary creation of K-12 regional and countywide school districts in an effort to improve educational quality and efficiency. According to a press release, the bill, S-3488, establishes criteria for state-funded regionalization studies, increases flexibility on regionalization cost apportionment, bars any regionalization that would have a segregative effect, protects accrued tenure and seniority, and provides significant financial incentives for districts losing state aid because of declining enrollment to regionalize by extending the schedule for their Adjustment Aid cuts from four years to eight years. “This will be the first major overhaul of New Jersey’s school regionalization statute in over 25 years,” said Sweeney (DGloucester, Salem, Cumberland). “It is designed to improve the quality of education by ensuring coordination of curriculum from grades K to 12, provide the enriched educational experience smaller districts cannot offer, and generate long-term savings that can be used to hold down property taxes or reinvest in expanded educational programs.” “Our legislation removes significant barriers to regionalization, including a statutory provision to recalculate state aid that would have made it more costly for some districts to regionalize than to remain separate,” said Gopal (D-Monmouth). “Furthermore, it extends the timeline for Adjustment Aid cuts from four years to eight years for districts that regionalize. Most importantly, it is a voluntary process that provides local districts with greater
CLASSIFIED
12 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
April 21, 2021A
Automotive Merchandise
Celebra-
ge
Rentals Apartments ts
Gara
Jobs
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
Pe
ces
Servi
Homes
198 ROUTE 9 NORTH, SUITE 100, MANALAPAN, NJ 07726
732-358-5200
E-MAIL YOUR AD TO gmclassified@centraljersey.com MONDAY - FRIDAY 9A.M.-5P.M.
CHARGE YOUR AD
FAX: 732-780-4678
DEADLINES: FRIDAY P.M. DEADLINES: FRIDAY511AM FOR LINE ADS, DISPLAY ADS AND BUSINESS & SERVICE ADS
All advertising published in Newspaper Media Group are subject to the applicable rate card, copies are available online at CENTRALJERSEY.COM. All ads are subject to approval before publication. We reserve the right to edit, refuse, reject classify or cancel any ad at any time. Errors must be reported the first day of publication. We shall not be liable for any loss or expense that result from the publication (whether published correctly or not) or omission of an advertisment. Please check your ad the first day it runs. Ads may be canceled at any time. All charges are non-refundable.
Healthcare
Help Wanted Full Time
Compassionate, patient, cheerful person to care for your loved ones. I can help with home and personal services such as bathing, dressing, medication, housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, running errands, shopping, driving to doctors appointments and more!
Please Call: 848-333-9081 Help Wanted Full Time
HCWL and GHC IS HIRING REGISTERED NURSES New hires are welcome! Call 732-339-1933
JOBS ARE AVAILABLE FOR CERTIFIED AIDES (CHHA). Call 732-339-1933
Lawn Technician
Must have Drivers License. Paid Training.
Call 732-738-6660
PRECISION SHEET METAL SHOP
has openings for: WELDER
GENERAL SHOP HELPER/ GRINDER FINISHER MECHANIC- Must be able to read prints & setup & run various metal fabrication equipment. PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR- Must be able to setup & run amada press brakes. F/T positions Top pay & benefits, 401K. Work hours: Mon.-Thurs., 6:30am to 5:00pm.
J&E Metal Fabricators, Inc. Metuchen, NJ.
Traffic Plan seeks FT Flaggers to set up & control traffic around construction sites. A valid driver license is a must, good pay & benefits. If interested please fill out an application on Tuesdays from 2-4 PM at 5300 Asbury Road, Farmingdale, NJ 07727 or go to trafficplan.com
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
P: 732-548-9650 F: 732-548-9589 www.metalfab.com Email: je@metalfab.com
Help Wanted Part Time Milltown Public Schools Lunch / Playground Aides Website: www.milltownps.org
Healthcare LICENSED HOME HEALTH AIDE/HOMEMAKER/ DOCTOR IN CHINA- Over 30 years combined experience. Will care for your loved one. $15./hour. Refs. avail. Call 732-429-6964 MARISOL'S HOME Caregivers Services. We provide caring & affordable in-home care for seniors & disabled with illness & injury. Daily/live-in. Family own/ operated. NJ lic. Ins./Bonded. 732-912-9312 We care for you!
Apartments for Rent
Bethany Manor, a Senior Citizen building located at 500 Broad Street in Keyport, NJ will be accepting applications to add to an existing waiting list for Subsidized Apartments (tenant pays 30% of their gross monthly income for rent). If you are 62 years of age or older, you may request an application to be mailed to you. Applications will be available for distribution Tuesday, April 27, 2021 through Friday, April 30, 2021 by calling 732-264-9550 from 9AM until 12 Noon and 1PM until 4PM that Tuesday through Friday. Persons with disabilities who need assistance in filling out the application within the prescribed time frame may contact the business office. No more than two applications will be given out per request. Applications would have to be returned by mail, postmarked no later than Monday, May 10, 2021 to: Bethany Manor Housing Applications, 500 Broad Street OFC, Keyport, NJ 07735. When the application is returned, with all information completed, eligible applicants will be placed on the waiting list in the order of their submission. Eligibility income limits including income from assets are: One Person $54,950 2 People $62,800 Bethany Manor manages the complex in conjunction with the US Department of HUD and New Jersey Housing Mortgage Finance Agency. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY NM-00458973
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
EMPLOYMENT
WEEKLY TO PLACE A RECRUITMENT DISPLAY AD CALL 732-358-5200
1April 21, 2021
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
Building Remodeling
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 13
BUSINESS & SERVICE
Action Construction
CALL OUR CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT TO ADVERTISE HERE 732-358-5200
Professional Home Remodeling at Reasonable Rates
Call George for free Estimate
732-742-2185
Major Credit Cards Accepted
Electrical
Gutters
Handypersons
V & D ELECTRIC, LLC.
Lic# 13VH02579300
Contractors
Over 25 Years Experience • • • • • • • •
The Name You Know & Trust
Additions Add a Level Custom Basements Kitchens Baths muzioconstruction.com muzioconst@optonline.net Lic#13VH00073300
NM-00458892
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Electrical
JB ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Residential/Commercial
SERVICE UPGRADES
jbelectricalnj.com
Cell: 908-907-5170 732-845-3333
732-238-1049
NM-00455910
Full Renovations Home Improvements
Call Mike for an estimate.
Free Est. • Bonded & Ins. • Lic. # 15903
VDElectric@msn.com
Electrical
Serving Monmouth, Old Bridge, Parlin & surrounding.
732-759-5897
Handypersons
KEY CONSTRUCTION
SPITALETTO ELECTRIC
HOME IMPROVEMENTS Interior Exterior We Accept Credit Cards
OWNER OPERATED
• 24 Hour Emergency Service • All Of Your Residential Electrical Needs • Same Day Service We Install Generac Generators Free Estimates • Lic. #14030 Bonded/Insured
732-238-8519 www.spitalettoelectric.com email: info@spitalettoelectric.com
We Accept All Major Credit Cards -
NM-00458893
Garage Doors
GARAGE DOORS RS
Replace, Repairs, Spring Repairs, 24 HR service. Licensed/Insured ML Installation, LLC Lic # 13VH06595700
10% o wit ff this h ad!
732-673-3105
WITH THIS AD Exp. 4/30/21
NM-00458908
No job too small. All levels of home repairs & improvements. Carpentry • Painting • Tile/Molding • Powerwashing
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Gutters
JB GUTTERS S EAMLESS GUTTERS & LEADERS
• Gutters • Hardwood Floors • Kitchens • Laminate Floors • Moldings • Odd Jobs • Painting • Power Washing • Repairs • Roofing • Siding • Wallpaper Removal • Windows
Fully Insured • Free Estimates • Owner Operated NJ Lic# 13VH06672000
www.keyfloorshic.com
732-952-5131
Home Improvements
A+ CONSTRUCTION
Gutter Covers Roofing & Chimney Repairs Call for free estimate
PAINTING • POWER WASHING DECK REPAIRS • ROOFING FLAT ROOFS • ROOF COATING CONCRETE & FOUNDATIONS
732-857-1938
All calls returned promptly , Next day availability
Fully Insured • Low Prices
Ann 27 th Cele iversary brati on
HARDWOOD SPECIALIST • NEW JERSEY’S BEST
INSTALLATION REPAIRS CLEANING
732-579-2490
• Additions • Attics 10% • Basements OFF • Bathrooms ANY JOB Booked By • Carpets 4/30/21 • Carpentry Min. $300 • Ceramic Tile • Counter Tops • Decks • Doors • Dormers • Sheetrock • Flooring (we are dustless)
NM-00459029
NM-00458217
New Construction Addition’s Basement Remodels Service Upgrades Trouble Shooting & Repairs Outdoor Lighting We Call Ceiling Fans Recessed Lighting You Back!
NM-00458896
Free Est. • Sr. Discounts Visit our website: www.aplusconstructionllc.us
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
14 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
April 21, 2021A
BUSINESS & SERVICE CALL OUR CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT TO ADVERTISE HERE 732-358-5200 Home Improvements
JOSHUA PETRO HOME IMPROVEMENTS HOME IMPROVEMENTS Over 2,500 Satisfied Customers
• Additions • Attics • Basements • Bathrooms • Carpentry • Ceramic Tile • Counter Tops • Decks Over 30 years • Doors Experience • Dormers • Dry Wall • Flooring • Gutters
• Hardwood Floors • Kitchens • Laminate Floors • Moldings • Odd Jobs • Painting • Power Washing • Repairs • Roofing • Sheds • Siding • Wallpaper • Windows
ALL WORK GUARANTEED !!! Free Estimates • Insured • Owner-Operated
732-613-1115 973-818-0880
(Office) (Cell)
Lawn Care
AJ’s Home Improvement, LLC 732-900-6087
CERTIFIED
Commercial & Residential
Exterior All Types of Roofing Flat & Shingles Repair or New Deck Repair & Staining Chimney & Fencing Shed Repairs Powerwashing
Interior Carpentry Painting Sheetrock Basement Waterproofing No Job Too Small or Big!
Quality Service – Quick Response Free Estimates ~ 24 hr. emergency service
Veteran Discounts Available
Home Improvements
TIMCO HOME
IMPROVEMENTS Specializing in • Custom Seemless Gutters Leaf Guards • Roofing Siding - Windows • Bathroom And Kitchen Remodeling Free Est. • Fully Ins. • 35 Years Experience
732-572-2678
/
Landscaping
/
Spring Clean-Ups
UNITED
• Weekly Mowing • Fertilization Program • De-Thatching & Seeding • Re-Sodding lawn • Complete Landscape Restoration & Installation • Mulch, Stone, Topsoil Installed & Delivered • Trimming & Pruning • Gutter Cleaning • Drainage Now Accepting Most Credit Cards Fully Insured
Working for a Greener NJ! Call for your FREE Estimate
732-257-5973
Lawn Care
/
Landscaping
EXPERT
LAWN & LANDSCAPING, LLC
LANDSCAPING • TREE SERVICES • STUMP REMOVAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE BULK MATERIAL DELIVERY FULLY INSURED
24 HR. ANSWERING SERVICE
732-713-1528 TOM 732-713-2008 BRIAN
Lawn Care
• Spring CLEAN-UPS • Landscaping Design & Maintenance • Tree & Shrub Pruning • Retaining Walls • Top Soil • Mulch • Stone • Pavers • Vinyl & Wood Fencing Installation
(Patios, Retaining Walls, Pavers, Sidewalks) Free Estimates Fully Insured Over 20 Years Experience 24 Hour Emergency Service Senior Citizen Discount
CALL NICK
(732) 238-2050
732-207-3933 732-617-TREE
Lawn Care
/
INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE
LANDSCAPING INC.
Paver Walkways Patio • Driveways Snow Plowing
COMPLETE LANDSCAPE DESIGN 732-549-6387
www.dslandscapinginc.com
NM-00456572
Lawn Care
/
Commercial & Residential
Free Estimates • Fully Insured
Landscaping
D&S
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Lawn Care
CLEAN-UPS
FREE ESTIMATES
24 HOUR PROMPT/EMERGENCY SERVICE
$100 OFF
C.H.E.A.P.
Any Service of $1,000 or more
TREE SERVICE
732-548-1653
NM-00456571
Free Estimates • Fully Insured
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
Landscaping
Will Serve The Monmouth Areas For Tree Work & Landscaping Only
Landscaping
• Tree Removal • Trimming • Pruning • Stump Grinding • FIREWOOD • Lots Cleared Serving: Edison, FIREWOOD Metuchen, Colonia, Woodbridge, N.Brunswick, Highland Park and “We Are TheMilltown, Most Recommended surrounding. Tree Service In The Area”
/
� ���� ������� � ����� �������� � �������� � ���� ��� ����� ������� � ���� ����������� � ������ ��� ���� �������� � ����� � ����� � ������� � ������
Certified brick paver and retaining wall installer NJ State Pesticide Lic.#97065A
Landscaping
Lawn Service LLC.
NM-00458223
/
M.R.S.
Tree Service, Inc.
Landscape Restoration Experts ALL WORK GUARANTEED Residential & Commercial Lic. #13vH08853200
Landscaping
Residential/Commercial/Municipal
G.S. LAWN SVC & LANDSCAPING LLC
www.buildwithasjr.com
Home Improvements
NM-00456569
732-900-0051 or 917-624-7581 732-900-00
NM-00459030
NM-00458221
NM-00458448
A&S JR. LLC Lic# 13VH03221500
All Types of Roofing Flat or Shingle • Repair or New Decks Stained and Repaired Fencing • Masonry • Painting Fencin ting Powerwashing Free Est. Friendly vice. Friendly, Professional Service.
Lawn Care
Must present coupon at time of estimate. Exp. 4/30/21
Storm damage/storm related issues excluded.
NM-00456570
Home Improvements
$250 OFF
Any Service of $2,500 or more
Must present coupon at time of estimate. Exp. 4/30/21
Storm damage/storm related issues excluded.
** DISCOUNTED FIREWOOD ** 1 Cord $185.00 • 1/2 Cord $100
732-257-1170
www.budgetpropertymaintenance.com
FULLY INSURED, FREE ESTIMATES
OWNER OPERATED
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
THE CRITERION SENTINEL 15
Painting/Wallpapering
BUSINESS & SERVICE CALL OUR CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT TO ADVERTISE HERE 732-358-5200
Plumbing
PRECISION PAINT AND POWERWASHING 5 Star Rated on Google
• Interior/Exterior Painting • Deck and Fence Stain and Paint • Powerwashing • Wallpaper & Plaster Removal • Sheetrock Repair
Nothing is better than a woman’s touch! /
Landscaping
Masonry/Paving
NM-00457724
Lawn Care
Same day free estimate • Licensed & Insured
908-416-5219
Painting/Wallpapering
NM-00454624
Lawn Care
/
Landscaping
New Beginnings Landscaping Spring & Fall Clean Ups Lawn Mowing - Fertilization Top Soil, Mulch, Shrub Trimming, New Plantings, Seeding, Powerwashing We deliver materials!
Call 908-309-1430 ask for Mike Give your property a New Beginning
s Year
PT MASONRY
MASON
All Phases of Brick, Stone & Concrete Work Free Designing Available www.poloniaconstruction.com
732-525-8118
FREE ESTIMATE Brick Pavers - Natural Stone Concrete - Driveways - Patios Sidewalks - Steps - Retaining Walls
1-800-757-7747 BrickPaverExpert.com
NM-00456670
DISCOUNTS 732-605-0362 AVAILABLE Over 30 yrs. • Free Est./Ins.
H
ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER
PAINTING
• All Phases Of Painting • Interior/Exterior • Moulding Installation •No Job Too Small
(732) 534-0548
Owned & operated by Joshua Ludlow Free Estimates • References • Fully Insured Lic#13VH06178600
FREEHOLD NM-00458839
732.619.6829
Please visit our website or call for more info.
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200
NM-00458246
FREE ESTIMATES
TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL 732-358-5200 Roofing/Siding
ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Serving all of New Jersey since 1998
CELL # 732-810-9511
• Houses • Decks • Fences • Concrete • Brick Pavers • Pool Areas • Deck Staining Also• Polymetric Sanding
H
Plumbing
SPECIALIZING IN
3rd Generation
NM-00452771
&
#13VH04604300
Power Washing
When quality, Reliability & Experience Matter
Masonry/Paving
Specializing in all types of paving for Driveways & Parking Lots
No Job Too Small NJ Lic#8843
Satisfaction Guaranteed
NJ lic #13VH06010100
Fully Insured
P Boilers Installed/Repaired P Water Heaters Installed P Drains & Sewer lines cleaned P Sewer & Water Mains installed P Kitchen & Bath Remodeling P Framing & Sheet Rock
Quality Work • Affordable Wallpaper Removal • Sheetrock Repair Taping/Spackling • Interior/Exterior Reliable Prompt Service
Colonia, NJ
Masonry/Paving
Plumbing • Heating Home Improvements
Custom Painting
PHIL SCALI 732-609-0786 Insured
732-257-6254
Glenn Kaune’s
Over 40 years experience
Serving the area for over 31 years! Best from Europe!
POLISH
732-906-0385
Expert Repairs for
NJ Lic. 13VH3323100
Masonry/Paving
Free Estimates - Fully Insured
NM-00458224
NM-00456824
David J. McConnell
NM-00454669
1April 21, 2021
(732) 257-6640 • Free Estimates
plumbing & heating “Honest, Neat and Professional Service”
www.mattcoplumbing.com
732-418-0011 Metuchen, NJ 08840 | info@mattcoplumbing.com
Complete ROOF Replacement Special
Senior Citizen Discount
$500 OFF
Any Complete ROOF Replacement Fully Insured • NJ Licensed
www.bsgroofing.com
16 THE CRITERION SENTINEL
NEWSPAPER MEDIA GROUP • www.centraljersey.com
April 21, 2021
BULLETIN BOARD
T WO C H A M P I O N S H I P CO U R S E S Our legendary Banks Course is renowned for its signature bunkers and our scenic Palmer Course for its picturesque bodies of water.
Top 15 “Best Courses in NJ”
Top 15 “Best in State for NJ”
Banks Course, 2020-2021
Banks Course, 2020
—GOLF Magazine
—The Top 100 Golf Courses
Golf Membership at Forsgate means more for you and your family. Golf Academy & Indoor Practice Facility │ Fitness & Aquatics Center │ Hard Court Tennis with Lighting Award-Winning Casual & Fine Dining │ Year-Round Family Events & Social Activities
The Metuchen Arts Council is joining with the Metuchen Human Relations Commission to schedule a virtual “Community Conversation” around the issues highlighted in 2021 Windows of Understanding Public Art Project. Those issues include food insecurity, youth engagement, trauma and recovery, public health and climate change. All Community Conversations will start at 7:30 p.m. and can be accessed via Facebook live at www.facebook.com/ MetuchenHumanRelationsCommission/. The next event is scheduled for April 21. In observance of Earth Day, Edison Greenways Group and artists Laura Curtis and Mickey Waring will explore the issue of climate change. In addition to the Community Conversations, the Metuchen programming for the Windows of Understanding Project will include an exhibition in the Metuchen Public Library Gallery of all the art discussed in the Community Discussion. A virtual exhibit will also be mounted and available for viewing from the Metuchen Arts Council website at www. metuchenartscouncil.com. For more information on Windows of Understanding, including a complete list of featured organizations, participating storefronts, and a full calendar of free events, visit http://www.windowsofunderstanding. org or on Instagram at @windowsofunderstanding, #weseethroughhate.
The YMCA of MEWSA (Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy) will hold a virtual wine tasting fundraising event at 7 p.m. April 23 via Zoom. Participants will receive four bottles of wine, a list of suggested food pairings and a goody bag. The cost is $125 per household, which includes four bottles of wine and a surprise gift. Visit www.ymcaofmewsa.org/giving/ virtual-wine-tasting-event for more information and pricing. All proceeds will go to the YMCA of MEWSA’s Annual Support Campaign. Call Membership for more information about a 2021 Golf Membership! 732-656-8921 375 Forsgate Dr., Monroe Township, NJ 08831 forsgatecc.com
Edison Township will hold a Tulip Walk from noon to 7 p.m. April 24 and 25. There will be 10 blocks filled with 120 beds and 50 flower pots of tulips and hyacinths along Amboy Avenue, between Barton Street and Pleasant Avenue in the Clara Barton section of town. There will also be food trucks, craft beer and wine, and live music. For more information, visit the Edison Chamber of Commerce website at www. edisonchamber.com/