Mayor Amato Continues To Promote “See Something - Say Something” Campaign

From The Desk Of The Mayor

- By Berkeley Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr.

BERKELEY – Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr. and Chief Kevin Santucci continue to promote the See Something - Say Something campaign.

“It’s important to remind residents that if

Speeches:

Continued From Page 1 injustice because at this moment, there is a war unraveling right under our noses...a war against human rights that we cannot stay silent about,” he said.

Salutatorian Tate Boguszewski spent about half of her speech talking about the difficulty of spending the majority of the graduating class’ high school years in the pandemic. Studying remotely and social isolation compounded the stresses of being a teenager. However, these challenges have made them who they are now.

“Hopefully none of you are the same people you were freshman year. I mean, I walked through these doors straight and came out gay,” she said. She said that everyone listening was probably judged they see something suspicious they should report it to the police immediately,” Amato said.

The local campaign will consist of signs placed throughout the town, postings on billboards, web sites, social media and Nixle notification.

“Berkeley Township is 42 square miles with 44,000 residents. Every resident can assist by being the eyes and ears of our community. So if you see something, say and ridiculed for being who they were. “Being true to yourself is liberating.”

“Was I judged and ridiculed when I came out? Yes. Did I also see so much love and support from people who truly cared about me? Yes. The fact that I am no longer afraid to be who I am feels amazing,” she said. “There are a lot of adults who are miserable because they didn’t take advantage of opportunities they had when they were our age.” something,” Amato said.

Valedictorian Lexi Sierfeld took a moment to honor the memory of Adriana Kuch and talked about the importance of mental health and anti-bullying.

There was a lot of cheering during these speeches, but not everyone supported the calls for compassion and activism. There were a lot of comments online criticizing the two students who talked about homosexuality, but none about other speeches.

“I have seen this program in other parts of the State. I communicated the idea to Mayor Amato and he immediately embraced it. I want to thank the Mayor for pushing this ahead,” Councilman Byrnes said.

Council President John Bacchione said

“Many homeowners are aware of what is going on in their neighborhoods. We all know who should be in our neighborhoods and who shouldn’t. If you see someone who looks suspect or a situation that just doesn’t look right, please report it to the police.”

“This will be in addition to the Berkeley

“Politics and agendas don’t belong in graduation ceremonies” was a common refrain, as was “don’t shove your agenda down my throat.”

A commenter said “personal experiences shouldn’t be put into the speech” because a speech should be about the entire graduating class.

One commenter took issue with Boguszewski referring to a quote from “my lord and savior Lady Gaga.” The commenter said “I’ve been so upset all

Township Police Department Tip Line. It should be noted that the tip line has proved positive, as concerned citizens have alerted police which has led to multiple investigations and arrests,” Chief Santucci said.

Residents may either leave their name and address or report the activity anonymously if they feel more secure in doing so.

The Tip Line is 732-341-1132 ext: 611 or email: detective@btpdnj.org morning thinking how hypocritical it was in one speech to call for acceptance, compassion and love for all and then insult every Christian by calling Lady Gaga her lord and savior. Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. Acceptance, compassion and love works both ways!”

“Remember, if you are witnessing a crime in progress, immediately call 9-1-1 or Berkeley dispatch directly at: 732-3416600,” Bacchione said.

It is unclear if these commentors were at the graduation or just watched it online. Several people asked if school officials had approved the speeches. The school did not comment on this issue.

98th Annual Independence Day Parade

PINE BEACH – The Borough of Pine Beach has announced their 4th of July 98th Annual Independence Day Parade; Grand Marshall – Robert and Linda Budesa.

Parade will be on July 4 at 9 a.m. Registration is at 8 a.m. Course is from Pine Beach Chapel – Hillside and Huntington. Filed games to follow at Vista Park.